Every week I write a column called BE YOU for one of the local papers (The Times of Acadiana) – Each week someone different answers the questionnaire – the paper often has to edit them,  so here are all the answers, unedited (the whole truth)

Marcelle Fontenot
If you live in Acadiana, you will probably recognize Marcelle Fontenot, she is the co-anchor of the 5, 6 and 10 o’clock news on KATC TV3. She always appears to be so genuine and have a positive energy around her on air (I must admit I used this article as an excuse to meet her and find out if it was true). I can confirm that it is. I’m not sure if she knows it yet, but she is one of those people that draws you in, with a smile, and a look that tells you she is really listening. Whatever that ‘x’ factor is, Marcelle may just have it.

What was your first job?
I worked for the St Landry Parish Clerk of Court Office one summer while in high school, imputing old paper files into the computer system.  Here’s the catch, my “office” was in the old jail on top of the building.  Legend says it was haunted.  SPOOKY!

Describe a typical day in your life.
As the mother of a 4 month old, my day normally starts at 5:30 (for a feeding and diaper change).  If I’m lucky I get to go back to bed until about 8:00.  Then, if I have no morning meetings or anything, I take care of family business and try to get some housework and cooking done.  Around noon I drop my son off at the sitter and my work day starts at 2:00.
We have a 2:00 meeting, 2:30-hair and makeup, 3:00-commercial shoot in the studio, 3:30—I respond to emails, phone calls, Facebook messages, ect.  4:15- I start to read scripts and edit stories for the 5:00 news.  4:45-I’m on set; 5:30-prep for 6:00 show; 6:30-write stories for 10:00 news;  7:15— Lunch Break; 8:30- back at station; 9:30- makeup retouch; 9:45-back on set; 11:00-back home (FINALLY)!

What advice would you give the younger you?
A closed mouth never gets fed so speak up!  I was a very shy child.

What event in your life most shaped who you are now?
I don’t think there is one event that’s shaped me.  I have to thank all of the good and bad that’s happened in my life for making me who I am.

What values do you live by?
Treat Others As You Would Like To Be Treated—if we all did this, the world would be a much happier place.

What do you most appreciate?
Time: It’s one of few things in life we have no control over but yet have the choice in how we spend it.
My family: They are priceless!

What is your favorite journey?
The road to better health and happiness

Where is your favorite place to be alone?
At home with the A/C set just cool enough I need a light blanket, a pillow, a good movie, and a pint of butter pecan ice cream.

What living figure most inspires you?
I could easily say some great woman in history or a great journalist but truthfully, my parents inspire me more than anyone.  They have been married for 35 years and have led successful professional lives.  They worked so hard to provide my sister and me with all of what we needed and most of what we wanted.  I owe them all that I am.

What was the best advice you were ever given?
Be exactly who you are and be proud of it.

What is the best thing about where you live?
The people! There’s so much conviction and passion about everything—food, music, culture, heritage.  I love the way we enjoy living.

How do you “let the good times roll” ?
A great dinner with friends and stomach-busting, bring tears to your eyes laughter.
An outstanding concert where I’ve danced so much, my feet hurt.

What did u want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a teacher (and still do in a lot of ways).

What is your motto?
Always reach and give back, there is someone there who needs you.

How would you like to be remembered?
As someone who tried her best to, even in some small way, make the world a better place.

What do you say to yourself when you doubt yourself?
This too shall pass!

What three things are vital to BEing YOU?
Smiles.  Getting away.  Peace of Mind.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Ummm, I don’t think you can print them. *smile*

What is your favorite word?
Love.  In its true form, it’s more powerful than any other.

What do you collect?
Recipes.  I’m trying to become a better cook!

What food could you live on for a month?
Cereal!  From the sugary to the healthy kinds, I eat them all!

What would you change about yourself?
I would be a bit more aggressive about some things and more patient with others.

Describe yourself in five words.
Simple.  Thinker.  Open-minded.  Inquisitive.   Happy.

What is your idea of happiness?
My son.

What is your favorite movie?
The Sound of Music

What do you most regret?
I try not to live with regret. Instead I look at the past, learn from my mistakes and move forward.