Renton resident Shannon Waters is a 'Survivor'

Looks like "Survivor" will have some local flavor this year.

Renton resident Shannon Waters worked out for the past two years, losing four pants sizes and 70 pounds, in hopes of appearing on the reality show, which starts at 8 tonight on CBS.

"Ever since the very first episode aired, I really thought the concept was cool, being somebody who spent most of her life setting goals, going for things that the average person can't do," said the former Marine sergeant who served in Korea and Japan.

"I come from a large family, who did a lot of goal setting. There was always somebody around you pumping you up, telling you you could do it."

And her 74-year-old mom's response to Waters' "Survivor" ambition? "For God sakes, Shannon, why wouldn't you? You've done everything else."

Friends describe the 47-year-old sales representative for Seattle restaurant-equipment company Bargreen-Ellingson as "gregarious," she said, as well as "compassionate, humorous, courageous, competitive and committed."

Waters couldn't disclose anything about the show, but she hopes her appearance will encourage viewers to be more positive about life.

If she wins, she hopes to do a cooking segment with Al Roker or possibly dance with Ellen DeGeneres.

For more on "Survivor," check www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor.

Marian Liu: 206-464-3825 or mliu@seattletimes.com