The Interview – Mel Kendrick

Briefly describe yourself and what you do.

I’m a former assistant school superintendent from Meriwether County, an assistant secretary for adult education under the Bush administration, a map editor for McGraw Hill and worked with the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce. I consider myself a happy, energetic person who loves young people and is willing to try just about anything.  I am a God-loving senior citizen.

Best piece of business advice you’ve received.

Don’t walk behind, and don’t walk in front. Walk beside the person and learn everything.

If I had it to do over …

I would have stayed in college the first time and not gotten married.

You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?

Music would be Minnie Riperton, Barry White and C.K. and the Gospel Redeemers. Books would be the Bible, a dictionary and Plato’s Republic.

Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know

That i worked for the Bush (senior) administration in the Department of Eduation.

You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why?

My mother – she was such an elegant and exquisite lady. My soulmate, Robert, he is easy like Sunday morning. My daughter Pam, she has magnificent taste. Daria, my niece because she is an excellent chef and food designer. Dr. Beverly McCray, my friend who is fun, intelligent and keeps it going.

Name an as yet unfulfilled dream

Learning to swim

If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …

On an island in the Dominican Republic

Your go-to food.

Nuts

Dogs or cats?

Cats

Your favorite quote and why

“The calamity is not in not reaching your dream or goal, but having no dream or goal to reach.” I believe everyone should have dreams and goals.

What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own

To thine ownself be true. Like who you are and enjoy.