PEOPLE: MICHAEL MARSICANO

Michael Marsicano grew up in Saint James, New York, a historic little town on the North Shore of Long Island. He came to North Carolina as a college freshman to attend Duke University and just never left.

While at Duke, he began dating his future wife, Leslie, during his senior year. "She was Nanette in the musical No, No Nanette and I was in the orchestra - I played a mean oboe," he says. After graduating with a  B.S. in Psychology, he earned two more degrees from Duke: Masters of Education and a Ph.D.

He ran the Durham Arts Council for six years before coming to Charlotte in 1989 to head the Arts & Science Council. In 1999 he became President and CEO of Foundation For The Carolinas, the 8th largest community foundation in America. It has $2.3 billion and oversees 2,500 charitable funds established by individual philanthropists, corporations, and nonprofit institutions. 

In 2017, Michael was named by Charlotte magazine as No. 1 on its list of Charlotte's 50 Most Powerful People. He serves on Duke University's Board of Trustees and has received numerous national, regional and local awards. 

True to his reputation for being humble and kind, Michael was generous enough to answer The O Report's questions about everything from his favorite book to his vision for the future. 

What are your wardrobe staples?

At work, I am a suit and tie kind of guy. Otherwise I wear shorts and a polo shirt earlier and later than weather really permits.

Where are your favorite places to buy clothes?

Over the years, Paul Simon, but only when the sales sign goes up.

Who are your male style role models?

President Obama and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada. Both men have impeccably tailored and timeless styles. They wear their suits, their suits don't wear them.

Any favorite grooming products or grooming tips?

I never really embraced the facial hair trend. Clean shaven with polished shoes is my style.

How do you stay in shape?

I exercise in the mornings before work on an elliptical machine at home. However, I am still chasing the loss of ten pounds that most of us keep chasing.

What are your favorite charitable causes?

My wife and I enjoy giving to multiple arts organizations, our church, and selected educational and human service causes. We earned five degrees from Duke University between us so Duke is a high priority on our philanthropic list.

What do you like to do in your downtime?

There is nowhere on the planet I don’t want to visit as I love to travel; also, reading and gardening.

What do you love about this stage of your life?

With college payments for three sons now complete, we are empty nesters recapturing spontaneity.

Any timesaving tips you want to share?

Count me as the worst time manager you’ve profiled. It is my Achilles heel.

What are your favorite restaurants?

In Charlotte, the good food and elegance of Barrington's and the family feel of Dolce. Recently I have taken to Aqua e Vino. Once you walk through the doors you feel like you have stepped back to an old world Italian neighborhood. In Asheville, the unique tastes of Cúrate - call weeks ahead for reservations!

Where are your favorite places for a getaway?

We own a home in Asheville with another couple. With its stunning views, I call it Heaven and it is where I am most at peace. We also enjoy the beaches at Kiawah Island and Emerald Isle.

What was your childhood dream profession?

The goal was to be a doctor. I thought I would earn a medical degree and ended up with a research doctoral degree. It wasn’t exactly what my parents had in mind but they grew to appreciate a different path.

What was your first car?

A very old but well-kept Oldsmobile. I bought it in my senior year of college.

Who are your favorite writers or filmmakers?

Steven Spielberg is my favorite filmmaker. I have too many favorite authors to select just one. However, my recently discovered favorite author is Anthony Doerr who wrote a beautifully penned book, All The Light We Cannot See. I highly recommend it.

Who is your favorite hero of fiction?

Because he captured the imagination of and curiosity in my children and ignited their lifelong love of reading, it would have to be Harry Potter.

Michael and his wife, Leslie, at a Mint Museum fundraiser in 2017. The couple met as students at Duke University when she was the lead in a musical and he played in the orchestra. 

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?

Convincing my wife to marry me and raising three terrific boys.

What is your motto?

Two mottos: Ask for forgiveness and not permission; and don't let the perfect get in the way of the good. The latter motto is challenging for a self-proclaimed perfectionist.

What is your vision for the future?

I believe in the collective wisdom of citizens to build a better future together. Recently our collective purpose has given way to a divisive individualism. Setting tables for collaboration and generosity towards one another is my professional purpose.

What is the best business advice you have received?

Two related pieces of advice on being successful in Charlotte from two sources: Cyndee Patterson, who admonished me to gain influence by being so competent no one could ignore me, and Rolfe Neill, who convinced me that I should view myself as equal to other leaders in the civic life of Charlotte even if I was not their financial, social, or political peer - and to start acting like it!

What did you learn from your father or grandfather that still influences you today?

My father would give the shirt of his back to anyone who needed it. The roots of my career in philanthropy begin with him.

What's your favorite healthy snack?

I eat a lot of fruit.

What's your favorite splurge snack?

 All things chocolate.

What's in your glass during Happy Hour?

A robust and full-bodied glass of red wine.

FASHION: EXPERT ADVICE FROM JON SIMON

Men's fashion expert Jon Simon of Paul Simon Co. 

Second-generation clothier Jon Simon of Paul Simon Co. at the Village at South Park is a men's fashion expert. He has a hand in shaping the style of some of Charlotte's best-dressed men of all ages, but here he shares his advice for men 50 and up in a Q&A with The O Report.

What are some of the fashion problems men in their 50, 60, 70s and up are facing? And what are the clothing solutions you recommend?

"The business environment has become much more casual, and senior leaders are having a hard time visually distinguishing themselves. Knit shirts and khakis look good on a younger toned guy, but do not always flatter an older physique. Men this age don’t have the same body they had when they were in their 20s and now they have to turn to clothes to continue to look young and vibrant. The pace of men’s fashion is now moving more quickly than it used to and men in a leadership position need to keep in step. My suggestion is to make your clothes a priority each year. Keep up with what your needs are. Ask your significant other if they will share some of the yearly clothing budget. Find a professional to help you that you trust and are comfortable with."

What are some of the new trends that can help men in that age group update their look?

"I still believe that a sport coat is a difference maker. The shoulders and silhouette of a jacket show superiority, confidence, and give a sense of personal presence. Fabrics with stretch that started in women’s wear have invaded better men’s fashion. It has been helpful having fabrics with stretch coincide with the trimmer fits of today. This has allowed men 50 and up to adopt some trendier looks while retaining a comfortable feel."

What are the key quality wardrobe pieces that men should have by that age?

"A tuxedo for special occasions, life cycle events and galas. Two suits that are current in fit and design. A navy blazer without brass buttons. A nice piece of outerwear for wearing with nice clothes to work or going out in the evening that is in addition to their technical North Face type outerwear. Some ties that are a current width. Two good pairs of jeans, one for hanging out with the kids or grandkids on the weekend and one that is dressier for going out in the evening. And at least one sport coat that is seasonal in fabric and color."

What are your thoughts about untucked shirts?

"Untucked is comfortable, but is not flattering on all body types. There is a time and place for the look. Not all shirts are designed to be worn untucked. A professional can help you determine if the untucked look is right for you or not."

Who are the best-dressed male celebrities, from both the present and the past, that older men can look up to as style role models?

"Michael Douglas, George Clooney, Robert Redford, Tom Brady, Van Jones, Jeremy Piven and Ed Bradley."

How can men dress casually without being sloppy?

"You must have clothes that you feel comfortable and confident in. Get rid of the baggy look. Everything has a more tailored fit today. Make sure you have the right accessories. For example, wearing an old belt with a new outfit will ruin the entire look."

Trask Chukka Boots come in a variety of colors and materials including leather and suede. 

What are some of your favorite new pieces for Fall/Winter that would be a great addition to the 50 and up man's wardrobe?

A quilted vest from the Italian brand Waterville. 

"Trask Chuka Boots. An updated cardigan knit. An unconstructed soft coat. Five-pocket non-denim pants from Brax. New denim washes from 34 Heritage. A quilted vest from Waterville or Corneliani."

Five-pocket non-denim pants from Brax. 

BUZZ: HOT BOOK

Chip Gaines is known to millions of fans as one-half of the power couple with power tools behind HGTV's hit show Fixer Upper. In his hot-off-the-press new book, Capital Gaines: Smart Things I Learned Doing Stupid Stuff, the affabable Texan (by way of New Mexico) discusses not only the ups and downs of being a serial entrepreneur, but lessons he learned from his father. "He (showed) me how to be a man and how to be a father," says Gaines in an excerpt from the book published in Parade magazine. "He taught me the importance and value in investing in one's family above all else." 

PARTIES: FATHERS OF THE YEAR

The American Diabetes Association's 2017 Fathers of the Year: Kieth Cockrell of Bank of America, Chad Utermark of Nucor and Vinay Patel of SREE Hotels. ALL PHOTOS BY DANIEL COSTON

Since 2001, the annual Father of the Year Awards gala has been a bright spot on Charlotte's social calendar. Presented by the Father's Day Council, the fundraiser for the American Diabetes Association honors top businessmen who are also outstanding fathers. Honorees over the past 16 years include Brett Carter, Jesse Cureton, Al de Molina, Rob Engel, Carlos Evans, Alvaro Gurdian, Michael Marsicano, Felix Sabates and Richard Vinroot.

Dashing dads: The honorees make their entrance in style. 

This year's honorees were Kieth Cockrell of Bank of America; Vinay Patel of SREE Hotels; and Chad Utermark of Nucor. They were celebrated during a reception, dinner and awards ceremony at the Westin attended by their families, friends, business associates and supporters of the American Diabetes Association. The Master of Ceremonies for the black tie optional evening was WBTV anchor Jamie Boll.

Kieth Cockrell with one of the most important women in his life, his beloved former teacher and mentor Juanita Cooke. 

Vinay Patel surrounded by his family. 

Chad Utermark accepts his award. 

Dianne Roth, Jamie Boll and Pat Higgins. 

The event was also a toast to Dianne Roth, director of development for the American Diabetes Association Central Carolinas, who retired a few weeks after the fundraiser following 21 years with the nonprofit. She spearheaded the successful event over the years and in the process won the admiration and friendship of many Charlotte's most prominent businessmen and their families.

Dianne Roth with her honorary Father of the Year Award. 

She was surprised by a wonderful tribute given by our Father’s Day Council and the past honorees. Co-chair Pat Phillips presented her with an honorary Father of the Year Award and made the announcement that $25,000 for the American Diabetes Association was raised in honor.

"Being a part of this prestigious group is the greatest professional honor I could have ever imagined, and I am truly touched," said Dianne. "It’s been a privilege to have worked for such an important organization these past 21 years, and most of all to have had the opportunity to get to know so many wonderful business leaders, fathers, and their families in the process. Many have become good friends. I am so blessed to have been in a position to meet wonderful, caring people while at the same time working to support the American Diabetes Association." 

Leslie and Bruce Schlernitzauer.

Future Fathers of the Year? 

STYLE: HAVE A SEAT

Update your office with a masculine vibe from one of these stylish chairs.

Flynn mid-century chair in blue from the Better Homes & Gardens Collection, $169, Walmart. 

Woodland Imports leather and metal papasan chair in dark brown, $338, Wayfair.

1970s French leather and iron director's chair, $350, Restoration Hardware.

Banded stripe Losange chair handmade in the USA, $998, Anthropologie. 

HEALTH: EAT LIKE TOM BRADY

Tom Brady's new TB12 Performance Meals through the dinner delivery service Purple Carrot include offerings such as Japanese Lamb Fritters with Millet Tabbouleh and Lemon Yogurt

New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady has won multiple Super Bowls. Now he's hoping to compete with meal kit subscription plans including Blue Apron and Hello Fresh with his own brand of dinners through the delivery service Purple Carrot. 

His TB12 Performance Meals are advertised as being able to help athletes and active adults achieve and reach their peak performance. The healthy and organic plant-based dinners are inspired by Brady's notoriously fanatic diet.

The dinners claim to be high in protein, 100 percent plant-based, gluten-free, with limited refined sugars and soy, and free of highly processed ingredients. The average prep and cook time on each dinner is 35 minutes. Each week's offerings are posted online. This week, it's Green Curry with Kaffir Lime and Steamed Vegetables; Japanese Lamb Fritters with Millet Tabbouleh and Lemon Yogurt; and Cauliflower Steaks with Braised Cabbage and Dijon Sauce.  

Yum or yuck? You decide. One thing is clear: Landing a supermodel wife (Brady is married to Brazilian bombshell Gisele) is not guaranteed. Each meal is two servings and comes with step-by-step instructions. To have three of the meals delivered to your door costs $78 per week (which averages out to $13 per serving). 

GROOMING: MANCRAFTED IN CHARLOTTE

Buckskin & Mane's grooming products for men, including the popular Camo Beard Oil, are handcrafted in Charlotte using all-natural ingredients. 

Buckskin & Mane, a line of high-quality, all-natural body and hair care products for men, was founded by three military veterans: Robert Mason, Luke "Buck" Yerrick and Lukas Biebinger. They are so passionate about supporting veterans that it's built into their business model: a portion of sales are donated to the nonprofit Charlotte Bridge Home, which helps Charlotte-area veterans transition home after military service.

“We understand the sacrifices that are made in the military - the time away from family and the impact it has on your body both physically and mentally," says Mason. "We have a tremendous amount of respect and appreciation for those who have served.”

Mason says making premium products that customers love combined with the discipline and teamwork he and his business partners learned in the military have made their business successful. "We wake up early every day and hold each other accountable to complete our tasks and goals," he says.

Buckskin & Mane products are “mancrafted" in Charlotte from naturally derived, organic raw ingredients. Find them at the Sporting Gent (2848 Selwyn Avenue, 704-896-5600); Jeffre Scott Apothecary (607 Providence Road, 704-339-0010); CLT Find inside 7th Street Public Market (224 E. Seventh Street, 704-230-4346); and Coco and the Director inside the lobby of the Marriott City Center uptown, 100 W. Trade Street, 704-353-6003. Or order products online at www.buckskinmane.com. 

Among the line’s most popular products are the Sunflower Seed Hydrating Shave Cream ($19); Aspen Bark Oil-Free Moisturizer ($19); 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash with Fresh Hemp and Omega-3 ($17); and the Camo Beard Oil ($19).  

Sunflower Seed Hydrating Shave Cream ($19)

Aspen Bark Oil-Free Moisturizer ($19)

3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash with Fresh Hemp and Omega-3 ($17)

Camo Beard Oil ($19).