Young Antioch photographer cleans city, builds business – East Bay Times

ANTIOCH For several weeks, there he was power-washing moss-covered benches, clearing weed-filled areas and painting faded sidewalks.

No paycheck and no directive; just the driving force of sense of community pride.At just 20 years old, Michael Pohl is a clear self-starter.

A 2015 Antioch High graduate, he already owns his business and is highly motivated to help better his native city.

Pohl is like the Little Engine that Could.

I believe in doing things 100 percent or not doing it all.

Becoming self-employed, though, wasnt really the plan. After graduation, he worked for a school photography company and quickly made his way through various departments. In less than a year, he filed paperwork for Michael Pohl Photography.

Ive enjoyed photography ever since I got my first camera in elementary school, he said. I really got serious about photography in high school (he was yearbook editor) and fell in love with portraits.

While hes building his business, he donates countless hours to photographing events, functions and his city.

And, at just 20 years old, Pohl is the youngest member of the Antioch Rotary Club, a Chamber of Commerce ambassador, and second chair for Antioch Highs Linked Learning Advisory Board.

He also manages two Facebook pages: The Beauty of Antioch Project and the Antioch Photography Group.

Hes spurred to volunteer because he wants the place I live and work to be a better place. Im so tired of hearing: Well, this is Antioch. What do you expect? And I cant wait to leave.

Back to all that downtown curb appeal.

City Manager Ron Bernal is grateful to Pohl.

After meeting with the Downtown Merchants to discuss ways to improve the riverfront area, the response was very positive.

(Michael) really took things to heart and decided he would do what he could to make downtown shine, Bernal said.

What I appreciate most is hes the type of leader who gets out there and does the job at hand, whether anyone joins him or not. He does it with enthusiasm, energy and a huge smile. Hes not looking for recognition, but goes about (the work) with the attitude of service and just trying to do his part to make things a little bit better.

Rotary Club member Milanka Scheiderman is also a fan.

Michael has always been a positive person, who is helpful to others when asked. He is willing to take pictures at no charge for our club, and volunteers frequently in this capacity.

He embodies the Rotary concept of service above self, (and) has been a valuable member of our club and the entire community. City Manager Ron Bernal and Mayor Sean Wright both mentioned Michael in their State of the City speeches. We couldnt be prouder of our youngest member for making a difference in so many ways.

Pohl feels everyone can help in a variety of ways.

If everybody did a little, nobody would have to do a lot. Pick up trash on your walk. Imagine if all 114,000 people picked up one piece of trash each day versus one person picking up 114,000 pieces

A long-distance runner in high school, Pohls in it for the long haul.

I get a strong sense of community pride from my efforts. In 50 years, I want to know I did everything I could to make (it) a better place and know I played a part in helping the Antioch become just a little bit nicer.

Reach Trine Gallegos at TrineG@att.net.

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Young Antioch photographer cleans city, builds business - East Bay Times