My story begins in 1968. I was 7 years old and I spent time with my dad and uncles Paul and Bert at our families lighting store, Nova Lighting in Nanuet, NY. My first job in the store was merchandising switch plates. Sounds like a fancy job but I could sure put those switch plates on display
My experience continued by going to the store on evenings and Saturdays was a great way for me to make some money and as a 13-year-old, I got more than money I was able to spend time with my Dad.
What I didn’t know at the time is that it started my career in an industry that would become my passion. At 15 I worked in the warehouse before I left New York to go to Bentley University in Boston Massachusetts. Once my studies were complete I went to Houston Texas and I spent 4 more years there only to return home.
Being industrious and needing to earn more for my growing family I went back to Nova Lighting to work nights and weekends. I was able to once again work with my dad, but now I was helping clients made up of retailers and small contractors. This gave me the foundation to springboard into starting my own agency representing lighting companies in 1993. I am so appreciative of the unbelievable life long friends I have made on this journey and the experiences I have had and there is so much more to go.
Our Nova Family
(Above From Left to Right: Doug Cantor, Adele Brechtel, Susie Berlingeri)
From the begining of these lifetime experiences to today I carry the lessons learned as a young person in our store which included emptying ashtrays.
I have gotten back so much more than I gave. The hard work and dedication paved the way to a beautiful life that was my reward.
My motivation started with family and it continues that way today, my wife Mandy, and children Melanie and Benjamin are the people that propel me to continue to work tirelessly, I do it all for them.
I am happy to share my enthusiasm I have for this wonderful industry and some of the images I will cherish forever.
Please share with me any memories you may have of Nova Lighting or about our relationship I would love to hear from you.
Michael