LOCAL SCOOP

Class on Cass

A few months ago, a little slice of Paris arrived in Traverse City. Of course, it had to be a “European style-maven” paving the way. Born in Greece, Yula Kokas came to Traverse City by the way of New York. “My husband and I lived in New York and I ran the French designer Anne Willi store there. We moved here to be close to my husband’s family with our kids, and I felt it was a wonderful place to launch her store here,” Yula said. The store is nestled alongside Federico’s Jewelers on Cass Street. The interior is simple allowing for impeccable clothes that speak loudly. The styles, quality and fabrics are chic, classic and timeless. The prices are on the higher end, but to experience Parisienne shopping in Traverse City you have to agree is priceless. You haven’t dressed up in over a year, go treat yourself!

219 Cass St, annewilli.com

Manger Sharon Carmean, with Heidi Yates, the Executive Director of The Cherryland Humane Society. Yula Kokas inside her French inspired boutique on Cass St.

Furry Paws & Claws

What a concept! At this thrift store, 100% of the proceeds go to the Cherryland Humane Society. “I saw this downstate and just thought it was a wonderful idea,” explains Heidi Yates, Executive Director of the Cherryland Humane Society. The huge 6,700 square foot store sits next to Play it Again Sports on South Airport Road. It is getting filled with donated treasures by the day, in great anticipation of opening is doors very soon. “There is so much to see already,” says manager Sharon Carmean. Sharon is looking forward to this new chapter; she recently closed her TopDrawer Consignment Furniture store after 19 years of being in business. “I didn’t plan it, but the Cherryland Humane Society Board said they initially wanted to buy my equipment when I closed. We got to talking to Ed Girrbach on the board and here I am!” “We are so lucky to have her,” says Heidi. As you would imagine they even have a lot of fun pet stuff too! They will promote the message of rescue awareness too. “Please tell your readers we are looking for volunteers!” We just did!

1253 W South Airport Rd, cherrylandhumane.org

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