Profile of a Patch User: Chris Corbett

Every week at Patch we're going to be talking with one of our readers in an effort to get to know one another. You all make up South San Francisco, the city that we come here to read about every day. So, let's break down those internet walls and get to know our first featured Patch user, Chris Corbett.

Where in South City do you live?

I reside in Old Town, off of Linden Avenue.

How long have you been in South City?

I've been in South San Francisco for almost 10 years.

What brought you to South San Francisco? Or have you lived here your whole life?

I was at a career crossroads in my life, and my work (pest control) placed me here. I've lived in many places besides SSF: Novato, CA; Boulder Creek; Corvallis, OR; Klamath Falls, OR; Crescent City; Hayward; Burlingame; American Canyon; Vallejo; Pittsburg, NH; Columbia, SC; and Hiouchi, CA. I was definitely a gypsy in my younger years!   

Do you work in South City?

No, but I do work on the peninsula in San Mateo.

What do you think is unique about South San Francisco?

I love the many, many cultures and races here. Where I am from, and when I grew up (Novato in the ‘70s and ‘80s), there was really only one race represented.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

I enjoy on Grand Avenue. Its food is fairly priced and delicious. Plus, the employees there know me very well. I trust them!

What is your favorite local shop?

I frequent on Linden Avenue. I patronize it daily, and I always get a smile from the workers. Jesus, the owner, really appreciates my business, so I keep coming back.

What is your idea of a perfect Sunday in South City?

I spend the day with my sons who are 9 and 11 and we typically go to the mall and/or frequent the many pet stores locally to look and perhaps buy fish, lizards, or whatever they have there.

What is South San Francisco missing that draws you out to other cities?

I'd have to say a mall. And, perhaps, sun is missing as well (chuckle).

How did you first hear about South San Francisco Patch?

I was conducting a search on a prominent figure within the local school district last year, and an article about him popped up on Patch. I've been glued to Patch ever since.

What has kept you coming back to Patch for more?

It is an avenue for my venting and speaking to other parents and school district executives--if only indirectly--as I don't often get a chance to speak to them tête-à-tête.

Have you learned anything about South City (events, businesses, sports, etc.) from Patch that you weren't already aware of? 

Yes, I learn new things daily. It is very educational! I went to the local farmers market after I read about it on Patch.

Which types of Patch stories do you like to comment on?

Well, since my kids attend the district schools, I am quite interested in anything district-oriented. I like Patch because I believe the city decision makers actually read the blogs, and on the whole, try to better represent the city, using the public comments as at least a starting point/springboard or dialogue starter with their colleagues and/or bosses. Patch is a great way to get our ideas out there. The school and city boards do listen.

What's your favorite subject or feature on Patch? Why?

It's been the superintendent search, that's for sure.