My name is Michael and I live in the historic district on Main Street in New Market. I’m a career firefighter, local business owner, and New Market Town Councilman. Life has led me to many different places, including Texas, Seattle, and San Diego. I grew up near Denver, Colorado, and stayed nearby for college in Boulder, where I graduated with a degree in political science. I attended San Diego State University for graduate school, and then moved to Washington, DC after marrying my wife, which eventually brought us here. Life has been quite an adventure!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a 7 year-old daughter named Quinn, a 2 year-old son named Cal, and the most amazing wife on the planet Ashly.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am a career firefighter for Frederick County, currently stationed in Urbana. I love everything about my job, from the people I work with to the amazing things I get to do. I feel so lucky to have the opportunity the serve and keep people safe through my job. I also own Prospect Pantry with my wife here in New Market, which we opened in 2022.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I moved to New Market in 2018, when we found the perfect house to renovate into our home and open our own business.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I would have to say Ellen Pryzbocki, who is one the most kind-hearted and generous people I know, and also one of the smartest.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
If you have a dream or desire to do anything, take every step you can to make it happen. The biggest thing holding people back from doing what they love is themselves.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Visiting every Major League Baseball stadium in America.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The small town feel, while being so close to the town of Frederick and within close proximity to DC and Baltimore.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Doing the same things I am now, living here in New Market, with an expanded family and home, spending time getting away on vacations and being with the ones I love.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’ve never had a tattoo and I’ve only had one piercing in my entire life.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Costa Rica
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is May, favorite holiday is definitely Christmas, and favorite single day on the calendar is April 25 – not too hot or too cold, all you really need is a light jacket.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A movie night at home with my wife and a bottle of red wine.
Q: What person, event or experience has made the greatest impact or inspiration in your life?
My Grandmother – she was such a hard worker her entire life, and showed me the benefit of working hard for what you want.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I’d love to have lunch with Jose Andres, because I’d love to show him Prospect Pantry!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, friends, and FUN!
