Todd McWaters
Inweekly, 7/20/2006
Todd McWaters is a well-known Gulf Coast community leader, former Pensacola owner of Frank Bennett’s Restaurant and Wine Bar and an early advocate for revitalizing downtown Pensacola. In 2004, Todd gained national attention when he founded the grassroots movement, “Panhandle for Kerry,” and was later appointed as the NW Florida Field Coordinator for the Kerry-Edwards coordinated campaign. He was recently appointed as the Northwest Florida Field Director for the “Rod Smith for Governor 2006” campaign. Here Todd shares is his love for wrist watches and the embarrassment during an impromptu Elvis presentation.
What is your greatest fear?
Indifference. Also, the dumbing-down of America, today’s media and Reality TV.
What is the trait you must deplore?
Dishonesty.
Which person do you most admire?
It’s a tie: My late grandfather, “Doc” Golden and my father, Doyce McWaters.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Wrist watches.
What is your favorite journey?
Life in general, trying new wines, road trips and anytime the Rolling Stones are on tour!
What do you consider the most overrated virtue?
Leadership and/or heroism.
When and where are you most comfortable?
At my home, stretched out on the sofa next to my dog Lilly with a glass of good Bourbon in one hand and the stereo remote in the other.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To be a truly gifted singer/musician.
Who would want to play you in a movie on your life?
If he were still alive – Henry Fonda.
What do you consider your greatest failure?
Missed opportunities with loved ones.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I was in college, I was coaxed into doing an impromptu Elvis impersonation in front of a large crowd of friends and family – after having eaten a big plate baked beans for dinner. Big mistake.
What is your dream job (not your current one)?
Writer/political advocate.
What is your favorite song?
”My Way.”
What do you most value in friends?
Loyalty.
What do you most dislike?
Betrayal.
If you could change one thing about your family, what would it be?
Some of them would no longer be right-wing Republicans. I have nothing against “normal” Republicans!
What have you learned in life?
Always seize the moment, live each day as if it were your last, let those close to you know that you love them, never lose touch with your inner child and most importantly – old age and treachery will always overcome youth and skill.
What is the last book you read?
“Team of Rivals” by Doris Kearns Goodwin, “Our Endangered Values” by Jimmy Carter and “New Rules” by Bill Maher.
What super power would like to have?
The ability to wipe out ignorance, hunger and poverty forever.
What is your motto?
From Quentin Crisp: “It takes a gentleman to suffer ignorance and smile.” And from Elvis Presley: “Walk a mile in my shoes”
