F&P Employee Spotlight on Principal Michael T. Bennett

What is your favorite restaurant/show/event in Baltimore?
If there’s an event in Baltimore that is better than catching an O’s game with a beer in hand, I have not found it. Camden Yards is an absolute gem and still one of the best ballparks in the league.

Do you have a favorite quote?
“Passion is what makes life interesting, what ignites our soul, drives our curiosity, fuels our love and carries our friendships, stimulates our intellect, and pushes our limits. In my life I want to create passion in my own life and with those I care for, I want to feel, experience, and live every emotion.” – Pat Tillman

What do you like to do outside of the office?
My wife and I are both really active and love taking our two kids to explore nature, with Harpers Ferry being one of our favorite spots to hike. We’re not far from Patapsco State Park, and I really love mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing there. Nothing beats a game of football/wiffle ball in the neighborhood with the kids too.

Have you recently read any good books or seen any good movies you would recommend?
“The Things They Carried” by Tim O’Brien and “11/22/63” by Stephen King are some of my favorite novels. “The Greatest Generation” by Tom Brokaw and “The Autobiography of Malcom X” both do a tremendous job at transporting you to a different time to view the world from another perspective.

What is your favorite food?
Mexican and it’s not even close. Tacos, burritos, empanadas, tamales, enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas, etc. Just put some jalapenos on them, slide them my way, and watch them disappear.

What is your all-time favorite city or town, and why?
Knoxville, Tennessee, will always have a piece of my heart due to the family and memories I have there. Put me there on a Saturday during football season and I’m in heaven. Go Vols!

Do you have any bizarre talents?
I’m not sure if it qualifies as a talent, but it is bizarre. I was the mascot at my kids’ elementary school last year for their field day, and then got recruited by the principal at wife’s school to do the same. I ran the obstacle courses before dunking a basketball (ok, it was a 7’ rim), so I have to step up my game now. If I leave it up to my kids I’ll end up getting shot out of a cannon or jumping through a flaming hoop this year.

What are some of the biggest life lessons you have learned?
Treat everyone in the building with respect, whether it’s the CEO or the janitor. Embrace new experiences, and always maintain a sense of humor and gratitude.