Our mission is to provide tuition-free sailing adventures to military personnel and their families, including veterans, Gold Star Teens, children of military families, Gold Star and Blue Star families, and spouse and child survivors.
Captain's Comments
Captain Bryan Smith
Gold Star Teen Adventures Aboard Perception
We have had a wonderful two weeks in June with Gold Star Teens aboard Perception. They learned the basics of sailing a schooner, had some exciting sails, made some good friends, and had a lot of fun! Watch the 7-minute video to see what it's like to sail with us!
We owe a HUGE Thank You to Dr. and Mrs. Edward Brophy for their donation of a 10 foot Zodiac dinghy and motor to Michigan Challenge! This is a tremendous gift, and will transport crew when anchored or moored, help guide Perception when docking in high winds, and even participate in man overboard practices and rescues! Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Edward and Ingrid Brophy!
Michigan Challenge Treasurer Judy King, Dr. Edward Trophy, Ingrid Brophy, Captain Bryan Smith, Captain Jason Lombardi, Captain Mike Sutherland, Dr. Susan Wainwright, Larry Ward
Where is Perception NOW??
Our Gold Star Teens programs are held in Northport, Michigan, where we enjoy the beautiful G. Marsten Dame Marina and her excellent facilities. Our volunteers enjoy the convenience of our Traverse City dock, generously provided by Mr. Pat Johnson. Perception moved to Northport on Sunday to take part in Northport's 4th of July celebrations, then return to Traverse City at the end of the week.
Here's where you'll find us in Northport:
Here's Where You'll Find Perception
In Traverse City
GPS address for Dockside Party Store is 13418 West Bayshore Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684
Michigan Challenge at the State Theater
Every third Thursday you can find Michigan Challenge volunteers helping out at the concession stand at Traverse City's State Theater. Nonprofits participate to get their name on the screen at the beginning of the movie.
President Captain Bryan mans the popcorn machine
Volunteer Mike Peleshok and Treasurer Judy King wait for customers.
Weather Wise
Weather can be friend or foe to sailors, and since their lives may depend on it, they learn to read the signs. On long voyages, Perception's crew builds a "weather day" into the schedule to make sure they reach their destination on time! The following handy guide is a page from How You Can Forecast The Weather, by Eric Sloane.
