The S.B. Questionnaire: Catherine Remak

Talk about about a smooth operator. You may not recognize the name Catherine Remak, but I’m certain you know the voice. You’ve woken up to her for years and listened to her on the way to work.

For the past two decades, she and Gary Fruin have been the enduring duo of K-LITE’s “Gary and Catherine in the Morning.” In addition to being very easy to listen to, Catherine is incredibly warm and genuine and a true champion of nonprofits and great causes.

She stepped away from the mic to answer the Proust Questionnaire.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

“K-LITE 101.7.” I must have said that over a million times! It still has a pretty good ring.

What is your most marked characteristic?

Curiosity, wanting to make a difference, and being a loyal friend.

What do you like most about your job?

There are so many amazing aspects to my work: connecting people with news and events in our community, sharing inspirational stories, and great music are among my favorites. But it’s the people I’ve met along the way that I am most grateful for: our listeners, many of whom I consider extended family, and a morning partner who is one of my most treasured friends and makes me laugh daily. Finally, the musicians I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing over the years, especially the ones I grew up listening to as a child of the ‘70s. I’ve had to pinch myself more than a few times.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

A perfect moment is a gorgeous night at the Santa Barbara Bowl watching one of my favorite musicians perform, or a walk and conversation along the beach with a loved one, followed by a cold beer or glass of wine.

What is your greatest fear?

I fear Santa Barbara will continue to become more and more expensive, and I may find myself living on the beach, Hendry’s preferably.

Who do you most admire?

Without hesitation, my father, the quintessential gentleman. He was a man of intellect and honor, but also had a wonderful sense of playfulness. I miss him deeply and daily.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Ahh, extravagance…taking time off to relax and travel, I’m trying to do more of that these days. Also, the occasional round of golf at a great course, one superior to my game. That would be most!

What is your current state of mind?

I find myself more satisfied with life in Santa Barbara and deeply grateful for my close friends, but still looking for ways to grow and learn. I suppose you could call it “post-50s searching.”

What is the quality you most like in people?

I admire people who don’t give up easily, have a quick sense of humor, and are more interested in talking about ideas than about themselves or other people.

What is the quality you most dislike in people?

I generally find positive aspects to most anyone, but people who gossip or intrude too much in other people’s business is sort of a pet peeve.

What do you most value in friends?

I consider myself fortunate to have a diverse and large group of dear friends, but their shared characteristic is most definitely open hearts and minds, and the ability to put up with me.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I would love to play the slide guitar like Bonnie Raitt!

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Would you believe nothing? Didn’t think so. There is a small list, starting with being more organized.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Not sure my son would appreciate this, but definitely being a mom. With all I’ve experienced and accomplished, raising my son has, by far, been the most rewarding. I’m amazed daily at what this beautiful young man has brought to my life, the challenges as much as the celebrations.

Where would you most like to live?

I’m here!

What is your most treasured possession?

A string of antique pearls that once belonged to my grandmother. They were given to her as a gift from my grandfather the day my dad was born, and passed on to me for my 16th birthday.

Who makes you laugh the most?

My long-time favorite comedians have been Steve Martin and the late, great, Robin Williams. Recently I’ve become a fan of Louis C.K., I think he’s brilliant.

I also love observational humor. Ellen DeGereres is one of the best! But I get a kick out of anyone who can laugh at themselves and everyday circumstances.

What is your motto?

We are all works in progress.

On what occasion do you lie?

I would like to say never, but suppose I fudge a bit when the truth might hurt someone unnecessarily. Like I said, we are all works in progress.