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Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Fintech firm bags $1M in pre-seed round.

• Upcoming San Jose Giants match

• A deep-dive into the life of Thomas Fallon

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If plan “A” doesn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters – 204 if you’re in Japan.” 

–Claire Cook

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which public university in San Jose is recognized for its significant contribution to engineering and computer science education, producing many Silicon Valley professionals?

A) San Jose State University

B) University of California, Santa Cruz (Silicon Valley Campus)

C) Stanford University (Satellite Campus)

D) Santa Clara University

Answer to Week 38's Trivia:

San Jose hosts an annual Silicon Valley Beer Week celebrating craft breweries typically in B) July.

News

💼 Business

UK watchdog approves Meta’s ad data rule changes. (Link)

Pivotal wins new product award for Helix eVTOL aircraft. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Fairly new 49ers stadium to spend $200M on some basic upgrades. (Link)

SF Marathon invites runners to spend more money following major error. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Fintech firm bags $1M in pre-seed round. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Rancho Cucamonga Quakes at San Jose Giants
Excite Ballpark, San Jose
Fri, Aug 30th - Sun, Sep 1st | (More info)

⚽ Racing Louisville FC at Bay FC
PayPal Park, San Jose
Saturday, Sep 7th | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 Jelly Roll
SAP Center at San Jose, San Jose
Tuesday, Sep 3rd | (More info)

🎵 BEAT
San Jose Civic, San Jose
Thursday, Sep 12th | (More info)

Family Friendly Events

🏃 One Hit Wonder 1M 5K 10K
San Jose, San Jose
Sunday, Sep 1st | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “San Jose with a public space dedicated to virtual reality experiences” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Jose Historical Events

San Jose Earthquakes win their first MLS Cup (2001) - A significant achievement for local sports, slightly outside the requested timeline but marking the culmination of efforts begun in the 20th century.

In 2001, the San Jose Earthquakes achieved one of the most memorable milestones in their club's history by winning their first MLS Cup, marking a significant achievement for local sports in San Jose. The victory was the culmination of years of effort and dedication, both on and off the pitch, and the Earthquakes' triumph in the 2001 season solidified their place in Major League Soccer (MLS). Under the guidance of head coach Frank Yallop and the leadership of players like Landon Donovan, who was then a rising star in American soccer, the Earthquakes demonstrated resilience, skill, and teamwork throughout the season. Their journey to the championship was a testament to their hard work and a dream come true for the team and its supporters.

The MLS Cup final, held on October 21, 2001, was a dramatic affair that saw the San Jose Earthquakes face off against the Los Angeles Galaxy, their fierce rivals. The match was nothing short of electrifying, taking place at Columbus Crew Stadium in Ohio. The Earthquakes came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory, with goals from Landon Donovan and Dwayne De Rosario, the latter scoring the golden goal in sudden-death overtime. This victory was not only a testament to the team's on-field prowess but also to their never-say-die attitude, encapsulating the spirit of the club and its fans.

The 2001 MLS Cup victory was more than just a win; it was a watershed moment for soccer in San Jose and a celebration of the sport's growing popularity in the region. The Earthquakes' success brought together fans from all walks of life, inspiring a new generation of players and supporters. The championship served as a reminder of the potential for soccer in the United States and the role of clubs like the San Jose Earthquakes in pushing the sport to new heights. The 2001 MLS Cup remains a cherished memory for Earthquakes fans and a milestone in the club's history, symbolizing the spirit, determination, and talent that propelled them to the pinnacle of American soccer.

Famous People From San Jose

Thomas Fallon (1825–1885) - Early San Jose mayor and California historical figure.

Thomas Fallon was a significant historical figure in early California, particularly known for his contributions to the development of San Jose and his roles during the Mexican-American War. His life story embodies the spirit of the American West and highlights the complexities of California's early period of American governance.

Early Years and the Journey West (1825-1846)

Born in Ireland in 1825, Thomas Fallon emigrated to the United States at a young age. The allure of the West and the promise of opportunity led him to California during the early stages of American westward expansion. His journey westward was motivated by tales of adventure and the prospects of wealth, which were abundant in the minds of many young men of his era.

Military Endeavors and the Capture of San Jose (1846)

Thomas Fallon's most notable contribution to American history came during the Mexican-American War. In 1846, leading a group of just over twenty men, Fallon played a pivotal role in the capture of San Jose, raising the American flag in the city plaza. This act symbolized the shift of control in California from Mexico to the United States, marking a turning point in the state's history.

Life in San Jose (Post-1846)

Following the war, Fallon decided to make San Jose his home, recognizing the potential of the region. He quickly integrated himself into the burgeoning community, leveraging his military reputation for civic advancement. His early years in San Jose were marked by his involvement in various business endeavors and his growing interest in local politics.

Political Aspirations and Mayorship (1859)

Thomas Fallon's political career reached its zenith when he was elected as the Mayor of San Jose in 1859. His tenure as mayor was marked by efforts to modernize the city and position it as a key economic and political center in California. Fallon's vision for San Jose included infrastructure improvements and fostering a climate conducive to business and agriculture.

Post-Mayoral Life and Investments (Post-1859)

After serving as mayor, Thomas Fallon continued to invest in San Jose's development. He was involved in several key projects, including land development and supporting the city's agricultural sector. Fallon's investments contributed significantly to San Jose's growth, helping it evolve from a frontier town into a thriving city.

Family Life and Legacy (Throughout Life)

Thomas Fallon was not just a public figure; he was also a family man. He married one of the Bear Flag Revolt participants' daughters, cementing his ties to California's early American settlers. His family life and descendants would continue to play roles in Northern California, contributing to the social and economic fabric of the region.

Controversies and Conflicts (Throughout Career)

Fallon's life was not without controversy. His role in the capture of San Jose and his actions during and after the Mexican-American War sparked conflicts with the existing Californio population, highlighting the tensions inherent in California's transition to American governance. These controversies have shaped historical interpretations of Fallon's legacy, showing him as both a pioneer and a polarizer.

Statues and Memorials (After 1885)

In recognition of his contributions to San Jose and California, several statues and memorials have been erected in Thomas Fallon's honor. These memorials, while celebrating his achievements, have also sparked debates about historical legacy and the interpretation of California's early American period, reflecting the complex nature of historical memory.

Passing and Historical Re-Evaluation (1885)

Thomas Fallon passed away in 1885, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the early development of San Jose and the broader narrative of California's incorporation into the United States. In recent years, historians have begun to re-evaluate Fallon's contributions, considering them within the broader context of California's multicultural history and the impacts of American expansion.

Remembering Thomas Fallon (Beyond 1885)

Today, Thomas Fallon is remembered as a key figure in the history of San Jose and California. His life story reflects the broader themes of American westward expansion, the complexities of California's transition from Mexican to American rule, and the development of the American West. His contributions to San Jose's growth and his controversial legacy continue to provoke discussion and reflection.

Key Achievements of Thomas Fallon:

• Played a pivotal role in the capture of San Jose during the Mexican-American War.

• Served as the Mayor of San Jose, contributing to the city's development and modernization.

• Was a successful businessman and investor, promoting economic growth in San Jose.

• His family and he contributed to the social fabric of Northern California.

Thomas Fallon's legacy is a mosaic of leadership, controversy, and visionary city planning. His role in the capture of San Jose and subsequent political career underscore the complexities of American expansion and the transformation of California. As San Jose has grown into a major urban center, Fallon's impact on its early development and the ongoing debates about his memorials remind us of the enduring significance of historical figures and their multifaceted legacies.

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-Matthew Larsen

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