My City January 2023

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF Vince Lorraine

F R O M T H E P U B L I S H E R

E D I T O R I A L

A R T & D E S I G N

MANAGING EDITOR Sherron Barden

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Hai ley Worrel l Dar ia Akulova

DEAR READERS,

ASSISTANT EDITOR / WR ITER Peter Hinterman

Happy New Year! There’s something about that wish – three words full of so much meaning. For some, it means the beginning of an exciting new journey or milestone. For others, it is a welcome change from a year filled with struggle and brings hope for happier times ahead. In 2022, citizens of Greater Flint felt great loss with the passing of several beloved community leaders – most recently Bryant “BB” Nolden, whom we’ve featured in our publication several times as he contributed so much to the city he loved. We offer a tribute in his memory on p.8. A New Year is always a time for reflection and a “look back.” Once again, we are highlighting many of the memorable stories we shared with you – maybe you missed a few. Check out the “Year in Review” starting on p.80. The look back on our 2022 content is an excellent example of the variety we offer our readers every month.This issue has inspiring pieces about community outreach, a great “comeback” sports story, a feature on a local artist with a Flint history many of you may know, and a super-motivated kid who had a big idea and …you can read about this young entrepreneur on p.50. I have a soft spot for entrepreneurs having founded, owned and operated several local businesses – one for over four decades – of which I’m extremely proud.The Skaff family, on the other hand, has been doing business in Flint for 112 years which is truly outstanding! Skaff Furniture Carpet One belongs to a group of Greater Flint businesses that have adapted, evolved and continued to thrive through three generations. Read that story on p.20. Also in this issue, we feature the Retired Men’s Fellowship of Greater Flint – this sounds like a pretty cool club and they’ve been meeting (and much more) for 60 years. And, our special “Senior Living” section has some great information from local experts starting on p.54. Finally, our “Best Dressed” feature is back! This group of Greater Flint professionals showed up with great style and class.We thank them for taking the time, as well as Todd Slisher and the Sloan Museum of Discovery for allowing us to take photos in their fantastic facility. Enjoy! Let ’s begin this New Year with positive energy and prayers for peace and prosperity. Cheers!

PHOTOGRAPHY Katy Ki ldee

STAFF WR ITER Cheryl Denni son

O P E R A T I O N S

FREELANCE WR ITER Mark Spezia

ACCOUNTING/CI RCULATION Kim Davi s

CONTR IBUTING WR ITERS Er in Caudel l Dr. Christopher Douglas Vera Hogan

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Dan Garman

S A L E S

Marc Janca, AIF Alexandr ia Nolan Les l ie Toldo Shannon Whi te

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Terese Al len

14165 FENTON RD. FENTON, MI 48430 810.230.1783 - MYCITYMAG.COM ISSN#1559-3436 is published monthly by My City Magazine, Inc., 14165 Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 48430. Canadian Mail Agreement #41971515. For back issues, inquire for availability. Editorial Cor respondence: Address product information and inquiries to: Editorial Department, My City Magazine, 14165 Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 48430, phone 810.230.1783. To authors, photographers, and people featured in this publication: All materials, articles, reports and photographs in this publication are the property of My City Magazine and cannot be used without written permission. The opinions and conclu sions recited herein are those of the respective authors and not of My City Magazine. My City Magazine is not responsible for returning unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other materials. Every effort will be made however, to return rejected manuscripts, etc., if they are accompanied by sufficient first-class postage, but the publisher will not be responsible for any loss of such material. Copyright © 2022. All rights reserved. | Printed in U.S.A.

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VINCE LORRAINE PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF VINCE@MYCITYMAG.COM

COVER PHOTO BY KATY KILDEE

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In Memoriam 8 Bryant “BB” Nolden My Community 10 Enjoying the Great Adventure Retired Men’s Fellowship of Greater Flint My Outreach 14 Giving Grace Boutique Make a Purchase, Help the Homeless 16 Wrapped in Love My Success 20 Skaff: A Family Business Special Section 24 Greater Flint’s Best Dressed 2023 My Style 42 Cheers to a New Year! By Shannon White

My Dining 44 Local Eats & Drinks My Arts 46 Michael D. Melet

Art Worth Waiting For My Story 50 The Kid with the Golden Mic Vedant Gupta & Global Kid Media Special Section 54 Senior Living My Health

66 Malnutrition: Seniors at Risk 70 Everyone Can Be a Hero Donate Blood to Save Lives My Sports 74 Finishing Strong The Journey of Nic Matiere-Bey CONTENTS

My City Magazine YEAR IN REVIEW // 2022 80

January 2023

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My Look Back 80 Year in Review 2022 The Stories You Loved My Haps 96 Greater Flint Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony My Reality 98 Mt. Holly: Summer Haven for Rock & Roll By Vera Hogan My Econ 100 The Collapse of FTX By Dr. Christopher Douglas My Musings

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My Finances 104 Real Estate...A Canary in the Coal Mine? By Marc Janca, AIF® My Thoughts 106 For the Love of Soup By Cheryl Dennison My Travels 108 A Local in Paris

By Alexandria Pazienza-Nolan

110 My Can’t Miss List My Afterthought 113 You Really Know Your Stuff!

102 Treasure the Old, Embrace the New By Leslie Toldo

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ADVERTORIAL Chrome& Ice T he 8th Annual Chrome & Ice ™ will be a three-day event that will feature an amazing collection of exotic cars! With more than 50 sponsors and automotive February 10-12, 2023

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related vendor displays, demonstrations, concessions, live entertainment and a chance to attend the VIP Experience on Friday Night, it is sure to be a good time! Thanks to Title Sponsor General Motors and brought-to-you-by sponsor Dort Financial Credit Union with special thanks to ABC 12, the Chrome & Ice ™ Winter Classic Car Event will have ALL-NEW surprises! Hosted by the Dort Financial Center off Lapeer Road in Flint, Chrome & Ice ™ 2023 will be open to the public on Friday, February 10 from 10am to 4pm, with the VIP Experience starting at 6:30pm Saturday, February 11 from 10am to 8pm and Sunday, February 12 from 10am to 4pm. At 3pm on Sunday, there will be an Awards Ceremony for the Top 10 cars. Check out the exotic cars in the lobby, vehicles on display throughout the arena, visit the vendor and sponsor exhibits and don’t miss the Rockabilly Row Tunnel downstairs, the Miss Chrome & Ice ™ Rockabilly Pageant Show and concert on Saturday.There’s tons of fun in store for this year’s event! General admission tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for youth ages 12-17. Kids under 12 are admitted free. Arena parking is $5 at the gates.

Back by popular demand is the VIP EXPERIENCE on February 10 from 6:30-9pm. Tickets for the VIP Experience are $45 and include free parking, general car show admission, coat check and live musical entertainment with Square Lucy featuring Elvis! PLUS a VIP Ticket includes complimentary adult beverages at any of several bars in the arena, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and dessert on the walkway above the Green Arena from 6:30-8pm, compliments of Dort Financial Credit Union . NEW this year is a casino sponsored by Suski Chevrolet. Each VIP Experience participant will be awarded tickets to exchange for chips to play. At the end of the night, cash in your “winnings” for entry in amazing prize drawings! (No actual money will be exchanged.) Proceeds from Chrome & Ice™ and the VIP Experience will support the Back to the Bricks ® Youth Scholarship Fund.

Visit the Chrome & Ice™ Website backtothebricks.org/chromeandice2023 or scan the QR code

INMEMORIAM

Bryant “BB” Nolden 5.31.65-12.7.22 K nown as a champion for both his family and the entire community, Flint ’s “Gentle Giant” Bryant “BB” Nold en, passed away on December 7, 2022 at age 57. Born in Flint, Nolden graduated from Flint Central in 1983. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Educa tion from Central State University in Ohio and returned to Flint to serve his community as an elementary school teacher for 25 years. After retiring from the Flint Community Schools, he furthered his education by earning a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Michigan, graduating in 2013. Many who knew BB feel that he embodied the term “community service.” He began his years of public service in 2009 when he suc cessfully ran for 3rd Ward City Council, serving through 2014 and as vice president for two years. After serving on the Council for five years, BB ran for Genesee County Commissioner and began serving in the fall of 2014 until his passing, having attended a commission meeting on the day of his death. Furthering his community service efforts, he became the Volun teer Director of Berston Field House in 2009, tackling day-to-day operations including building maintenance, snow removal and any thing necessary to keep the facility open for the community. In the fall of 2014, he founded Friends of Berston to further drive his goal of creating something that would “continue to serve as a beacon of hope for Flint youth.”

BB Nolden shared his talents on many boards, including:The Flint Institute of Arts, Genesee County Land Bank, GST Michigan Works, Current Chair of Mass Transportation Authority (MTA), Gene see County Board of Commissioners, GCCARD, Flint & Genesee Group, Genesee County Health Board, Investment Committee for Ruth Mott Foundation and Genesee County Animal Control. BB leaves his wife Jacqueline H. Nolden; daughters Nikia Nicole Conner, Lauren Edmonds, Alexis Edmonds and Tiffany Pyland; grandchildren Lynia and Lyndale Thomas; mother Judith A. Nolden; brothers Anthony Cobbin, Corey W. Nolden, special brother Chris Crain and adopted sons Samuel Dupree and Jamar McKenzie, as well as many relatives, colleagues and dear friends. A force for good in the Flint community, BB will be remembered as a passionate community leader and a great human being. u

“What I’m going to miss about BB was his passion for people in our community. For guys like me and No lan, and so many others, Berston Field House had a mythical status. We knew it was a place where people, no matter what side of Saginaw Street you were from, would come and face each other as equals. We learned from each other and found out that we had a lot more in common than we thought. It was his work to ensure that legacy that got so many people behind him. We lost a great community leader and a great human being. His smile and ability to connect with so many different people will be deeply missed.” Honorable Duncan M. Beagle

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MYCOMMUNITY

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THE RMFGF, BOASTING A MEMBERSHIP OF NEARLY 100 (MOST SEEN HERE), WILL HAVE THEIR 60TH ANNIVERSARY AS A CLUB ON JANUARY 7 AND WILL COMMEMORATE THE ACHIEVEMENT WITH A GRANDIOSE CELEBRATION HELD IN MAY.

PHOTO BY TOM CHIATALAS

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memorystockphoto / stock.adobe.com

Retired Men’s Fellowship of Greater Flint

BY PETER HINTERMAN

The preamble to the group’s constitution states: “Believing that life is a great adventure, [and] to live it happily and usefully a broad culture is necessary. We, therefore, unite ourselves into a club for mental improve ment, physical well-being and good use of leisure time.”

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“The RMFGF provides and expands a social network that changes when a person retires. We offer mutual support, friendship and a sense of purpose through community engagement.” Rob Coheen, Member

ROB COHEEN (LEFT) AND TOM CERNY ARE PROUD TO CELEBRATE RMFGF’S 60TH ANNIVERSARY.

W hen Rob Coheen accompanied his friend, Charlie Sheridan, as a guest to a meeting of the Retired Men’s Fellowship of Greater Flint (RMFGF), he was intrigued. After his next couple of visits, he was hooked. “For me, it was the fellowship aspect of the group,” he says, “then afterward, meeting for lunch at the Masonic Temple or the White Horse. Lunch is always a highpoint of my day; there is something about breaking bread with folks.” Five years after his first meet ing, Coheen is an active member of the group, taking the role of monthly program chair this January and working as a kind of group historian looking into its past while at the same time, contemplating its future. Initially called the “Older Person’s Group,” the RM FGF was founded in 1963 by James Mayfield as a way

to promote the Flint YMCA to older men of the com munity. It soon became a way for men to expand their horizons with other fellows of like mind and humor. The preamble to the group’s constitution states: “Believing that life is a great adventure, [and] to live it happily and usefully a broad culture is necessary. We, therefore, unite ourselves into a club for mental improvement, physical well-being and good use of leisure time.” The first ever meeting took place on January 7, 1963 and the group became an instant success, charting members from all walks of life, backgrounds, interests and experiences. Many years (and many name changes) later, the RMFGF is approaching over 2,100 meetings for fellowship, education and adventure. The RMFGF also provides additional benefits not initially planned.

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According to Coheen, “The RMFGF provides and expands a social network that changes when a person retires. We offer mutual support, friendship and a sense of purpose through community engagement.” Today, the RMFGF boasts a membership of nearly 100 men of ages ranging from 57 to 102 and on January 7, will acknowledge its 60th anniversary with a big blowout extravaganza to be held in May. “It just goes to show the sustainability and our ability to adapt to modern times,” says Coheen. “The club has shown that it has the quality of persistence.” As evidence of that persistence, the club has weath ered a bevy of challenges over the years, possibly none bigger than the pandemic lockdown and quarantine, when the physical meetings were abandoned. “We start ed using the Zoom platform,” says former president and current Zoom Host, Tom Cerny. “I believe we had be tween 30-37 members at our first virtual meeting.”The virtual attendees grew meeting by meeting, even though most members came of age before the era of personal computing. In fact, the group’s three oldest members, age 100, were all in virtual attendance by Thanksgiving 2020. The decision to go virtual also offered unexpected opportunities. Presenters could come from and speak from anywhere on the globe, home-bound or hospi tal-bound members could easily attend, “snowbirds’’ and travelers could attend remotely from their locations, and members who were unknown to each other could meet for the first time. When the pandemic subsided and in-person meetings could resume, the RMFGF con tinued using the virtual meeting format and currently offers a hybrid experience. Official meetings take place at 9am every Monday from September to May in the Flint Institute of Music’s (FIM) Anderson Room. The time is structured with the first hour devoted to fellowship and conversation. The official

health updates, reading of the previous meeting minutes and an attendance report. On the first Monday of each month, the group makes it a point to acknowledge any birthdays or major member news. At 10:30, a formal professional and informative presentation is given by a guest speaker, followed by a Q&A session. The meeting officially ends at 11am; however, many remain to ask questions, engage in conversation and more. Former RMFGF president Tom Cerny has been attending meetings for 18 years. “I was brought to my first meeting by a friend from church,” says Cerny. “I was hooked by two things: One was the friendships I made and the second was the engaging programs/ presentations.” Presentations are given by professionals from all areas of interest including archeology, history, science, engineering, sports, medicine, art and others. The group has hosted war veterans, writers, coaches, business executives and local professionals including Sheriff Chris Swanson, Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, Coach Tom Alward, and Dr. Tracee Glab of the Flint Institute of Arts. Presenters are not compensated but are instead presented with the “famous” RMFGF ballpoint pen, and a certificate of appreciation. RMFGF members also enjoy the annual December Holiday Luncheon, February Ladies’ Day, and a field trip in June. Past field trips include a Detroit River cruise, tour of Ford Field, and an architectural tour of Detroit buildings. As a way to make an even bigger impact in the com munity, the RMFGF has helped the North End Soup Kitchen since 1990 by donating food and funds totaling nearly $60,000 to date. ß Continued on pg. 105

meeting is called to order at 10am, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance,

THE “FAMOUS” RMFGF BALLPOINT PEN IS ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER PRIZES IN GENESEE COUNTY!

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Make a Purchase, Help the Homeless BY CHERYL DENNISON

SpicyTruffel / stock.adobe.com

Tucked away on Bridge Street in the quaint little town of Linden is a tiny retail store that is an extension of Snuggle Sacks, a nonprofit organization founded in August 2015 by three children: Addisyn, Jaxson and Sheridan Goss. According to their mother, Stacy Daul, the goal of Snuggle Sacks has been to increase aware ness of homelessness in the surrounding communities and provide survival kits for those in need. Giving Grace Boutique, which opened in March 2021, is a retail entity but all of the sales revenue helps fund the work of Snuggle Sacks. “We acquired the building in Linden to use as a warehouse for our Snuggle

Sacks supplies,” Daul explains. But the building was set up as a retail store and at that time, Snuggle Sacks was struggling to get donations, she adds. “The year 2020 was a struggle for us because donations were affected by the pandemic.” She bought the boutique using her own funds and started the retail business. “We thought it could be a good source of cash flow for Snuggle Sacks,” Daul reports, “and it has worked like a charm.” At Giving Grace Boutique, you will find a variety of apparel, home decor, local food/snacks, hats, winter gear, jewelry, BruMate products and items crafted by local artisans. “It’s all brand-new merchandise,” says Daul,

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“All proceeds from Giving Grace Boutique fund our nonprofit, and we are so thankful.” Addisyn Goss Giving Grace Boutique has been strongly supported by the community, says Daul. Allen Ryckman, who runs CommunityThreads, a nonprofit store in Fenton, has been very helpful. “The retail store is run by kids and he has given them a lot of advice,”Daul notes. And it has been rewarding for her to watch her kids, who started Snuggle Sacks at such a young age, grow over the past few years. “It’s been pretty cool to see their transformation.” Addisyn started Snuggle Sacks seven years ago to honor the homeless after learning her grandfather was homeless. “Since he passed away, my siblings and I have worked hard to keep it going, and we help nearly 1,200 homeless people each month,” she explains. “It is something we are honored to do, and we couldn’t do it without the support of the community, and especially those who support our store, Giving Grace Boutique. All proceeds from the store run our nonprofit, and we are so thankful.” “It has been a game-changer for us,” says Daul. “Giv ing Grace Boutique provides $100 a day to purchase the supplies we need to continue our mission.” u

adding that they sell a wide range of Michigan-made products.The boutique has wholesale partners, including Simply Southern. According to Daul, their entire family is involved with the boutique. Addisyn, now a Linden High School student, works at the store after school and cousins also help out there. Addisyn’s dad, Jason Goss, opens the store every day. Sheridan oversees a chapter of Snuggle Sacks in Saginaw and keeps the organization’s website up and run ning. Jaxson handles the orders from the shelters and the delivery of survival kits. Snuggle Sacks is partnered with shelters all over the Lower Peninsula. “It’s a family affair for sure!”Daul exclaims. “The kids call me the manager. I do the payroll and oversee everything.” The back room of the boutique is used to store the supplies needed to make the Snuggle Sacks. Addisyn is able to fill the sacks and work the retail aspect of the business at the same time. Once a month, a group of volunteers assembles sacks at the warehouse in the store. In the winter months, they usually give out 1,200 Snug gle Sacks and 700 during the summer.

SHERIDAN, JAXSON AND ADDISYN GOSS ARE THE YOUNG AND DRIVING FORCE BEHIND SNUGGLE SACKS AND GIVING GRACE BOUTIQUE.

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BY PETER HINTERMAN

W hen Lindsay Huppertz’s daughter, Kyleigh, was born a month premature in 2019, she was sent to Hurley Medical Center’s Neo natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to get a little extra help with her start in life. During the few days she spent watching over her newborn at the unit, Huppertz thought about finding a way to show her appreciation for what Hurley’s doctors and nurses

“I DECIDED THAT GIVING BLANKETS WOULD BE A GOOD WAY TO HELP AND GIVE BACK.”

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says. “We were able to make 53 blankets our first year!” It takes Huppertz approximately 30 minutes to make a blanket. She is helped and supported in the project by her mother, Tracy Hensler. “I put out the call for donations in Septem ber and we start making the blankets in November but I really need to start making them a bit earlier, so I’m not rushing to get them finished for December,” she laughs. Each year, the project has grown (with the exception of 2020 due to the pandemic). In 2021, she was able to contribute 100 blankets to the Hurley NICU and last December, delivered 125. “My second daughter, Emma, spent 11 days in the NICU this year,” she states. “While I was there, I recognized some of the blankets they were using as the ones I donated previously and it made me smile. I’ll keep making and donating blankets as long as they need them.” When September rolls around this year, expect to see another call to ac tion from Huppertz as she continues

“THE BLANKETS ARE ALSO A GIFT FOR THE PARENTS

do for all the infants who need their support and care after their arrival. “I was thinking about what I could do and I noticed that the babies there were covered in blankets, especially those kept under the lights in incuba tors,” she says. “I decided that giving blankets would be a good way to help and give back.” She got to work and immediately made an appeal for donations, asking for a $10 contribution to the cause. “A $10 donation allows us to make two fleece blankets for the newborns,” she TO TAKE HOME BESIDES THEIR MIRACLE BABIES. WE HOPE IT IS SOMETHING THE BABIES CAN GROWUP WITH.”

LAST MONTH LINDSAY AND HER MOM, TRACY HENSLER, DELIVERED 125 BLANKETS TO THE HURLEY NICU.

her project to help the preemies at Hurley. “It’s our way of giving back for everything that Hurley does,” she adds. “The doctors and nurses are so calm and amazing. I don’t know what parents would do without them.The blankets are also a gift for the parents to take home besides their miracle babies. We hope it is something the babies can grow up with.” In September, Huppertz will reach out for donations on Facebook and other social media. A simple donation of $10 provides warmth and love to two newborns in the Hurley NICU. Donate and help a child start their life journey wrapped in love.

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SKAFF FURNITURE CARPET ONE HAS BEEN LED BY 4 GENERATIONS OF THE SKAFF FAMILY. PICTURED AT RIGHT ARE: (L-R) JEFF SKAFF, DICK SKAFF, AND MIKE SKAFF.

SKAFF A Family Business, Then & Now BY CHERYL DENNISON At Skaff Furniture Carpet One, it’s all about the customer experience and giving back to the community, according to CEO/President, Dick Skaff.

The business has been serving customers in the Greater Flint Area for 112 years. “It all started in 1911 when my grandfather, George Skaff, came to the U.S. from Lebanon at 14 years old,” Skaff shares. “He sold oriental rugs from a cart in Downtown Flint.”

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says Skaff with a smile. His son Jeff is now a co-owner and vice president. The business moved to its current Mundy Township location in 1980 and in 1987, joined the national buying organization, Carpet One – a nationwide network of 1,200 floor ing dealers. In 2010, Skaff joined Brand Source, a buying group that works with independent furniture and appliance retailers to help them remain competitive in today’s chal lenging business environment. Recently, Skaff Furniture Car pet One constructed a new, nearly 30,000-square-foot warehouse across the parking lot from their current store. For the last 40 years, they rent ed a warehouse in Burton. “My son got the ball rolling to build one. He asked me, ‘Why pay rent when we can build our own?’”The new facility will allow them to have more stock available. “Having the warehouse lo cated here is better for us and for our customers,” Skaff reports. “We can deliver orders right away.” An official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new warehouse will take place on January 18 and is open to the public. ß

Since then, the business has continued to evolve, expand and grow. In the 1950s, a storefront was built in Downtown Flint at the corner of Harrison andThird Streets. “Our presence grew as the store on Har rison Street expanded with larger showrooms,” adds Skaff. “Soon our company was a leader in carpet and later furniture, continually evolving to meet the needs of our customers.”

Each generation of Skaff that fol lowed carried forward the tradition of providing great value and quality products, and giving every customer the best possible service.Woody Skaff and his two brothers, Don and Jack, were the second generation to run the business.The third generation of the Skaff family, George,Tom, Dick and Mike took the reins from there. “Now, the fourth generation is involved,”

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“We are going to be here for a long time to carry on my grandfather’s legacy, as a local, family-owned business that supports the community.” Dick Skaff

“People like it built the old- fashioned way.” In addition to running a suc cessful business and providing great customer service, community involvement is another Skaff family tradition. “We help support over 20 charity organizations,” Skaff shares. “Giving back is very important to us and it is who we are.” In its eleventh year, the company’s biggest fund raising campaign is Save & Share, when a portion of the sales from the Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday after Thanksgiving are do nated to Whaley Children’s Center, Communities First, the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and Carriage Town Ministries. “In the last eleven years, we have given $200,000 to these organizations,” he adds.The company also volunteers at the Food Bank and donates funds to Coats for Kids, YWCA Safehouse,The Empty Pink Chair and Favorite Teacher Giveaway. How has Skaff Furniture Carpet One continued to be successful for 112 years? “One reason is the people who work here,” states the owner. Of the 37 Skaff employees, some have been there 35-40 years. “We do our best to take good care of our employees,” he shares, while adding that Skaff customers are the biggest reason the company remains successful. “We take care of them. It is very rewarding when

Skaff ’s 70,000-square-foot showroom is unique, according to the CEO, as it has a designated area to showcase all of the prod ucts – carpet, furniture, mattresses, clearance items and more. “The con cept of offering home furnishings and flooring as a one-stop-shop is attractive to customers, and is one of the ways we have adapted our busi ness,” he adds. “We have something here for everybody!” Skaff ’s vast and impressive inventory includes a variety of floor ing, such as carpet, hardwood, tile,

laminates and high-end remnants. Belonging to the Carpet One net work allows for lower prices and the grandiose furniture selection makes it easy to find your style and person alize your living space. Supported brands include Smith Brothers of Berne, Flexsteel, Bassett, Benchcraft and more. In addition, Skaff carries Serta and TempurPedic mattresses and Amish-made furniture craft ed by veteran Ohio woodworking company, Mavin. “The popularity of Amish furniture has really exploded in the last ten years,” adds Skaff.

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THE BIG CHAIR IS A CUSTOMER FAVORITE AND ICON. IT HAS BEEN PRESENT IN THE STORE SINCE 1985.

they come back and tell us how beautiful their home is. We are thankful for our customers and our staff.” As this Flint mainstay celebrates yet another anni versary in their second century of success, what does the future look like for Skaff Furniture Carpet One? “We made a commitment and will follow the guiding prin ciples that have led to success in years past,” the CEO concludes. “We are going to be here for a long time to carry on the legacy my grandfather left behind, as a local, family-owned business that supports the community. We are so happy that the fourth generation is here to take the baton and move forward!” u

Best Dressed MYSTYLE GREATER FLINT’S

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Photography by Katy Ki ldee

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Nominated by friends and fami ly for inclusion in our Best Dressed feature, these Greater Fl int professionals are certainly a styl ish group! We invited them to take a moment in the spotl ight and chose the fun and fabulous Sloan Museum of Discovery as the backdrop for our photo shoots. Enjoy!

Elegant, dapper, sassy and sophisticated

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MYSTYLE Johnell Allen-Bey

When did fashion become important to you? Fashion has always been important to me. When I was a child, my moth er used to take my brother and me shopping in downtown Flint at Robert David Allen and Hughes & Hatcher. Who is your favorite designer? I love Tom Ford because of his distinguished looks, as well as local talent like James Green and Philip Loving. What is your current fashion obsession? My current obsession is my signature look – three-piece suits and turtle necks.

Who is your “fashion hero”? My heroes aren’t in the fashion world. When it comes to fashion, I am my hero.

Where do you like to shop? I enjoy small, locally-owned boutiques in big cities like Detroit, Chicago and Los Angeles. I love local flavors.

What is your go-to accessory? My latest go-to pieces have been watches and hats.

Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. That is a hard decision because I enjoy all my looks. If I had to choose, it would be my wedding tux. It represented not only my favorite football team (University of Michigan GO BLUE!), but it also represented my wedding – the day I took my relationship to the next level. Do you recall making a “fashion faux pas”? Every thing I do is intentional. Even when I make a mistake, I fall in love with it. Some of my greatest statements have been mistakes.

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OCCUPATION Executive Director of Community Engagement Genesee County Sheriff’s Office MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Eclectic. I love to mix textures, colors and fab rics. Most people shy away from being bold; I embrace it.

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OCCUPATION Mortician/Owner, Sheldon T. Banks Funeral Chapel MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Professional – a two-button, single-breasted wool suit. I admire this style as it has char acter. Wearing high-quality, well-tailored

clothing boosts one’s confidence. You could be having a bad day at work but, when you’re dressed for success, you can take on those challenges.

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Sheldon Banks

When did fashion become important to you? Probably around 1990, when I started working in mortuary science and wanted to present myself as a profes sional. I’ve always believed first impressions are lasting impressions – a man in a suit projects success and reliability. Dressing meticulously portrays a person’s patience. Who is your favorite designer? Peter Nandwani, as he perfects custom tailored suits and is my personal suit designer. The fine fabrics he uses are imported and reasonably priced, all suits are hand-stitched. They have been in the custom business since 1969, servicing clients from around the world. I know each suit I get from Nandwani’s is a sound and solid investment.

What is your current fashion obsession? I love a wool pinstripe suit because it gives me a distinguished look for my typical workday interacting with the public.

Who is your “fashion hero”? Peter Nandwani, as he keeps me looking suave. He says, “Our talent and skills can be imitated but not duplicated.” Nandwani’s Custom Tailors are the only tailors in the world with a very comprehensive shopping service. Where do you like to shop? Nandwani Custom Tailors in Memphis, TN and Nei man Marcus. This organization has been operating for approximately 53 years, which gives me confidence that they know what they are doing.

What is your go-to accessory? Tie pins, pocket squares and exotic shoes. (I can’t divulge all my go-to fashion secrets.)

Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. That would be a pinstripe double-breasted suit – a true classic and an enduring symbol of menswear. This style is considered a staple suiting option, so they never really go out of style. I prefer a dark color with a white shirt and at times, soft pastel-colored shirts with a nice Vital iano Pancaldi tie. Do you recall making a “fashion faux pas”? I once put on a black dress shoe with a navy blue dress shoe, as I am color blind. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize I had made this “fashion faux pas” until someone pointed it out to me!

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MYSTYLE

Domonique CLEMONS

When did fashion become important to you? I started to gain a deeper appreciation for style and fashion about six years ago when I finished my undergraduate degree and en tered the workforce.

Who is your favorite designer? I like the classic and sophisticated designs by Giorgio Armani.

What is your current fashion obsession? Lately, I have been really into jackets (bombers, leather jackets, zip-ups, etc) and colorful high-top tennis shoes. Who is your “fashion hero”? A lot of my personal style is influenced by that of Tan France. Also locally, I have always been inspired by the style of (Executive Director, Latinx Tech nology and Community Center) Asa Zuccaro. Where do you like to shop? My favorite stores are Zara, Express and Banana Republic. I also really like the INC line at Macy’s. What is your go-to accessory? My signature fashion statement is the trio of matching eyeglasses, watch band and phone case. Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. I really like dressing in layers and love a good jacket. I have two favorite jackets – a light pink leather and a teal sport coat – and love to wear them paired with either jeans and a button down shirt, or a solid t-shirt and slacks.

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OCCUPATION Genesee County Clerk-Register

MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS I tend to choose a more bold and colorful palette. I really enjoy challenging the standards of profession al attire, choosing leather jackets or bomber jackets with shirts and ties over a suit coat, or incorporating tennis shoes and other exciting footwear into outfits. What I am most known for is my selection of colored eyeglasses with matching watch bands and cell phone cases.

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MYSTYLE

OCCUPATION Servant of the Community

MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Professional, a three-piece suit with matching shoes

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Dwayne Clemons

When did fashion become important to you? My mother used to dress me up when I was a kid and it carried over into adulthood.

Who is your favorite designer? Steve Harvey – he makes suits that are classic and culturally acceptable.

What is your current fashion obsession? I love a double-breasted suit because not everyone wears them. The style allows you to be dressed to the nines while differentiating yourself from the crowd. It also works well with a long necktie or a bow tie.

Who is your “fashion hero”? Steve Harvey

Where do you like to shop? Anywhere I can find a good quality suit for a decent price.

What is your go-to accessory? I don’t really have one; but I do like a nice pair of cufflinks.

Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. A plum three-piece suit worn with a lavender shirt and tie set and plum alligator shoes. I still have it. Do you recall making a “fashion faux pas”? I tried wearing a suit with no socks before it became popular – it was not the move to make at the time.

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MYSTYLE

Lennetta Bradley Coney

When did fashion become important to you? During my teens, being tall always caused people to look at me and ask, “How tall are you?” It was in my early years when I realized that being tall would mean I should adorn my tall frame with clothing that would enhance rather than cause a spectacle. Plus at that time, I start ed doing a bit of modeling at local stores.

Who is your favorite designer? I do not have a favorite designer, but I do favor various fashion brands such as Adrianna Papell, Rachel Zoe and INC, for example.

What is your current fashion obsession? I really value a good sale and discount purchase! It is rare that I will buy an entire ready-to-wear outfit with all of the pieces pre-selected. I design my outfits and strongly believe in mixing items to create a look. Equally important, I rarely purchase clothing at the original price – the item must be on sale/clearance and I have been known to wait until an item goes on sale because I refuse to pay full price. I often pair a slightly more expensive “sale” item with a moderately priced item to create something unique. I also like to shop for other people in this way.

Who is your “fashion hero”? Michelle Obama and Jennifer Lopez

Where do you like to shop? I typically purchase my clothing from boutiques, online catalogs and some big box stores, like Macy’s.

What is your go-to accessory? Belts, scarves and jewelry galore!

Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. I have a lavender leather dress that I absolutely adore that can be worn with an accent scarf of lavender, black and white or with boots and lavender jewelry. Do you recall making a “fashion faux pas”? I take great care to avoid fashion missteps. I will admit that I wore a black, one-shoulder asymmetrical top (really long on one side and short on the opposite side) and it exposed some skin on the short side. I do not like to show a lot of skin, so to compensate I kept pulling at the top throughout the day. Each time I wear that top, I now wear a black waistband scarf to conceal my skin. Clothes should be comfortable and not a nuisance!

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OCCUPATION President, Foundation for Mott Community College MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Contemporary Chic/On Trend

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OCCUPATION Nutrition Educator

MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Classy with a splash of BOUJEE – like an Hervé Léger dress layered with a peacoat and a pair of Christian Louboutin “So Kate” patent pumps. My main focus is to make sure my outfit makes an impactful first impression, and speaks without words.

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SHANE Jackson

When did fashion become important to you? It really wasn’t important to me until the end of my 20s – that’s when I really started paying attention to what I wore and when I fell in love with fashion. I came to understand the phrase “when you look good, you feel good.” I am definitely over-the-top with everything I do when it comes to fashion. A friend told me that they looked forward to coming out to events in Flint knowing I would be there and to see what I would be wearing. Who is your favorite designer? Gucci! I am definitely a Gucci girl, for sure. The designs are classic, yet bold – they remind me so much of my personality. Gucci has even collaborat ed with Disney characters including Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, which is connected to my fun-loving side. What is your current fashion obsession? I am really obsessed with the Herve Leger bandage dresses. They are affordable and stretchy and they provide the best contouring to any body frame. They are definitely show-stoppers! Who is your “fashion hero”? There are many who I look up to when it comes to style. My favorites are R&B singers Mary J. Blige, Ciara, Monica and Ebony, and the first full-figured model D’Wanna Randolph from Detroit. What is your go-to accessory? I always love to have a great, high-end purse like a Gucci or Louis Vuitton tote bag because you can dress down and still elevate whatever you are wearing with a great purse. Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. A jogging suit with a pair of Nike Air Max shoes and a baseball cap is my all-time favorite outfit. Since my childhood, I have loved wearing these outfits because they make me comfortable. Do you recall making a “fashion faux pas”? It can be funny sometimes when we look back and see the hilarious things we did while thinking we were giving the best. I remem ber being a teenager using black eyeliner to outline my lips followed by red mood-changing lipstick. I now see that was both hilarious and a total disaster at the same time! Where do you like to shop? I love boutiques; however, my favorite stores are Nordstrom Rack, Saks OFF 5th, Zara, Fashion Nova and even Goodwill. I just love a good deal!

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MYSTYLE

Jennifer Lasco

When did fashion become important to you? Fashion has been im portant to me since I was a child. It is the most incredible way to express yourself and how you are feeling to the world. In high school, I wore a uniform and always looked forward to days when we could wear street clothes. When we had dances at school, I’d always choose something crazy that my family couldn’t afford. My mother taught me to sew at a young age to create similar versions of the dresses I saw in the Neiman’s and Saks catalogs. I have a deep appreciation for the work and detail that it takes to create beautiful clothing.. Who is your favorite designer? It’s easy to call out any of the big fashion houses: Tom Ford, YSL, Alexander McQueen, Fendi and Valentino are my favor ites in that arena. When it comes to day-to-day, I love Cult Gaia, Alexis, Jonathan Simkhai, Re/Done and Jenni Kayne. What is your current fashion obsession? I love playing with proportions – big boyfriend sweater with pencil jeans and sweet trainers, OR a crop-top with “mom jeans” and sky-high heels.

Who is your “fashion hero”? Iris Apfel, Olivia Palermo

Where do you like to shop? Intermix, Farfetch, Net-a-Porter, Neiman Marcus

What is your go-to accessory? GREAT shoes and incredible perfume.

Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. I love so many moments in clothing that I’ve had. Your clothing is your mood, it creates your vibe. I think that one of my favorite recent outfits is a Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini purple dress with pink flowers and puffed sleeves, paired with hot coral Louboutins. Do you recall making a “fashion faux pas”? The biggest fashion faux pas I ever made was dressing for other people. When I moved from Birmingham to Fenton after Jay and I were married, I tried to dress to fit into this area. Wearing neon patterns, red plaid matching family outfits, or trying to duplicate the typi cal American girl’s fall fashion Pinterest board isn’t for me. The only person you should ever dress for is YOU! Don’t let any mean girls tell you what you should be wearing, or that their opinions matter … Because they don’t.

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OCCUPATION Real Estate Broker, Owner of Lasco Real Estate Group

MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Anything that makes me feel fun and wrapped like a gift is usually my favorite look.

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MYSTYLE

OCCUPATION Ministry

MY SIGNATURE STYLE IS Cute and covered

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Brittany WILLINGHAM

When did fashion become important to you? When I accepted a call to ministry, I wanted to be able to show women that we could express beauty and creativity and honor God at the same time. Who is your favorite designer? I have no favorite design ers, specifically. I love a variety of clothing – as long as it’s cute, I’ll wear it!

What is your current fashion obsession? Anything that sparkles! It screams “girly” and I love it.

Who are your “fashion heroes”? My mom and my grand ma – they’re the epitome of class.

Where do you like to shop? Rainbow, Shein, Fashion Nova and thrift stores

What is your go-to accessory? Raising R.U.T.H. “Rhonda’s Red” lipstick! It’s the perfect shade of red that goes well with anything I wear and instantly makes me look polished. Describe one of your all-time favorite outfits. I love, love my all-white evening dress accented with ostrich feathers on the sleeve and bottom of the dress! It fits perfectly and it was a steal price-wise. Instant DIVA! u

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P ROMOT I ONAL

Mega Classic Diner 4462 Corunna Rd., Flint Twp

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FENTON WINERY & BREWERY

CORK ON SAGINAW

P ROMOT I ONAL

MYARTS

Michael D. Melet Art Worth Waiting For

BY PETER HINTERMAN

W henever and wherever you meet Michael D. Melet, you can be sure of two things: 1) He’s got something special in the works, and 2) In his coat pocket or his bag is a small sketchbook and a pencil – his steady traveling companions. “I take a pad of paper with me and I draw every day,” he states. “I draw what I see at the mo ment. It keeps me busy.”The pictures he dubs “waiting fors” happen sponta neously whenever he sees something

that piques his interest, usually during the quiet periods when he is waiting for something else such as picking up a grandchild, waiting for a meeting to be gin, or a show to start. His sketchbook contains images such as a man at a piano, the back of heads in an audience, a piece of scenery, etc.The drawings are simple but it was one of these “waiting fors” that led him to his second career as an artist and his first exhibition at Buckham Gallery in 2011.

Born and raised in Flint, Melet attended Cook, Longfellow and Zimmerman schools until finishing high school at Cranbrook School in Bloomfield Hills. After graduating, it was always his goal to work with his father in fashion back in the city of his birth. In Melet’s youth, Downtown

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“I’m sticking with collage for now – although, I was thinking about going back to the beginning and working with watercolors and pen & ink. Take it back to my first show, so to speak.”

Flint was bustling and his family was part of the reason why.They owned and operated the iconic Vogue Fashion Store on Saginaw St. and young Michael couldn’t wait to contribute. “After I graduated high school in 1958, I was accepted to the University of Michigan,” he recalls. “I wanted to start working immediately but my father believed that everyone should have a college education and I couldn’t convince him otherwise.” However, after a stint working in New York’s garment district and his sophomore year at college, Melet was allowed to join his father and official ly embrace Flint. He was given the reins of the business in 1972 and took it as far as he could, while at the same time serving on boards including Flint Institute of Arts and Buckham

Gallery. It was while serving on the board for Buckham when a casual glance over his shoulder shed light on a talent that had been kept behind closed doors. Melet had been a private artist nearly his entire life. He worked at and appreciated art in secret, col lecting art literature (he and his wife boast a library of over 3,000 art pub lications), fashion and art magazine clippings, and hundreds and hundreds of personal drawings. “I doodled and sketched all the time,” he says, “and I keep all of my sketches. I have files and files of them.” (One of his shows included a 4ft. by 4ft. cre ation called “Waiting For” where he displayed a good portion of the sketches.) As he was sketching during a Buckham board meeting, another

MELET’S PORTFOLIO INCLUDES SCULPTURE, GLASS, ACRYLICS, MIXED MEDIA AND COLLAGE.

attendee noticed and appreciated his picture. Buckham Gallery co-found er Sam Morello got wind of it and inquired. “I had more sketches and

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