Husband, father, captain and educator. I was born and raised in Cheyenne, Wyoming. After graduating from the University of Wyoming, I sailed professionally on the east coast from Key West to Maine and places in between. I spent my summers growing up on the St. Lawrence and Lake Ontario, so when I landed in TC it felt like a natural freshwater fit. I moved to Traverse City for a job on the tall ships and decided to stay when I met the love of my life, Heather. We were married in 2017 and had our son, Hudson, in 2020. After seven years as captain of the Tall Ship Manitou, we decided it was time for a career move. Heather and I purchased the 1963 46ft Sailing Yacht Althea, and brought her out from the east coast. In 2022, we started Compass Rose Sailing Company and operate private yacht charters out of the Discovery Pier. During the rest of the year I am fortunate enough to spend my days as a teacher of science and business marketing at Traverse City Central High School. In my spare time, I create branding and marketing strategies for local businesses and sit on the board of directors for the Maritime Heritage Alliance. We spend a lot of time outside as a family and hike/ski on the Timbers Trails almost every day with our dog, River.
Q: Please tell us about yourself.
See Above
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
My passion for sailing and science education was fostered when working alongside the Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) for many years. It was a natural fit to move into the classroom as a full time teacher and spend the summers as a captain/business owner. In both roles, being able to share my passion and enthusiasm with students and TC visitors is truly a rewarding experience.
Q: What is your favorite book?
Voyage by Sterling Hayden, though now days I’m reading a lot of “Bluey” books
Q: What are some of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Stellas, Slabtown, and Folgarellies
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? What brought you to Grand Traverse County?
I have lived in Traverse City for 15 years.
Q: What advice would you give to people who want to visit our community?
Slow down and relax. If you don’t see everything during your visit don’t worry, you will see it next time. You’ll be back for sure.
Q: If you could choose anyone today with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you all meet?
Seth Mcgee; the Parlor
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My favorite thing is about our community is the enjoyment and respect we have for the wonderful gift of nature.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love playing guitar.
Q: Which yearly event in Grand Traverse County do you enjoy best?
June, July and August!
Q: What is your favorite season in Northern Michigan? And what is your favorite activity to do in that season?
See above, and sailing of course!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Oh that’s easy. Heather, Hudson and River.
