Patty Ducey-Brooks
Patty Ducey-Brooks's Latest Posts
Remembering Presidio Hills
Every once in a while something happens in our lives that we can call a “teaching moment.” That happened to me recently with a new neighbor. During this occurrence, I took the time to reflect on the past, and to re-experience living in the Presidio Hills neighborhood for 36 years. Where did the time go, […]
A Child Author Who Loves Music
As I have shared for many years, there are a variety of people who capture my attention as they present their special stories. What usually gets my immediate reaction is when children are involved, especially those who use their talents and skills in a unique way. This is one of those young people who caught […]
As Small Business Optimism Is at Its Lowest Level, Local Government Isn’t Helping or Responding
Sadly, many small and independent business owners are beginning to wonder if there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Those hoping for an upturn in the economy aren’t confident that the business climate will get any better within the next six months. According to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Optimism […]
28th Annual Fostering Hope Golf Classic Benefits Voices for Children
Show your support for thousands of children in San Diego County foster care by participating in Voices for Children’s 2021 Fostering Hope Golf Classic on Monday, May 17, chaired by Rolf Benirschke, Dave Bialis, Bill Sailer, Katie Sullivan, and Dale Yahnke. Hosted at the beautiful La Jolla Country Club, golfers will tee off for an 18-hole […]
Coming Together for a Common Cause
Last month I shared a story about Barry Soper, who befriended two homeless men and helped to turn their lives around. Soper, who hadn’t planned on focusing his life on the individuals experiencing homelessness, suddenly became an advocate for those who needed a voice. Ironically, when Soper and I met, we learned that we have […]
Maison en Provence in Mission Hills for 25 Years
This past month I received an email from Marielle Giai, one of the proprietors of Maison en Provence, located at 820 Fort Stockton Drive in Mission Hills. Marielle was sharing with me that 2021 marks the 25th year that she and her husband, Pascal, arrived in Mission Hills. And, though I have known them since […]
The Hidden Story
Sometimes life takes you on a journey that you never expected. That’s exactly what recently happened to me. This past month I received a press release on DJ Lance and Tuxedo, a special canine, whose story is on page 2 of this issue. However, the real story is with Tuxedo’s human companion, Barry Soper. I […]
Feeling Extremely Blessed To Have A Veterinarian in My Life
Most of us will admit that our pets have helped us maintain our sanity during this past year. Lexi, my adorable Yorkie, has been with me every day. When I start to feel down, I look at her sweet face and immediately feel better. Her presence brings calm to almost every unbearable situation. Unfortunately, Lexi […]
St. Nicholas: An Inspiration For Us All
Many people don’t realize that Santa Claus is based on Saint Nicholas, who was born to Greek parents near the end of the third century in the coastal city of Patara, in a region that is part of present day southwest Turkey. He was orphaned as a child and is said to have used his […]
Meet An Extraordinary Artist and Neighbor
Recently I was introduced to Jeffrey Siegel, who has lived in various houses in Mission Hills since 1989. His current home is also where he has his studio. Siegel shared with me that he got introduced to clay and ceramics when he was 16 years old.
