Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Santa Clara ion battery manufacturer taps new CEO.

• Upcoming San Jose Sharks match

• A deep-dive into the life of Irene Dalis

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is no greater education than one that is self-driven.”

— Neil deGrasse Tyson

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!

What annual San Jose gaming convention attracts fans of video games, tabletop games, and pop culture from around the globe?

A) Silicon Valley Comic Con

B) FanimeCon

C) PAX West

D) California Extreme

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

San Jose was the first city in the world to launch a public electric light railway system in B) 1881.

News

💼 Business

Health care giant plans $800M Santa Clara expansion. (Link)

Santa Clara ion battery manufacturer taps new CEO. (Link)

🏒 Sports

ESPN's Adam Schefter whiffs on Michael Vick-Sacramento State rumors. (Link)

A blurry pic of Buster Posey at LAX is now driving SF Giants free agency rumors. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Major restaurant chain closes Milpitas location. (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

🏒 Colorado Avalanche at San Jose Sharks
SAP Center, San Jose
Thursday, Dec. 19th | (More info)

🏀 Bethesda Lion Angels at San Jose State Spartans (Women’s Basketball)
Provident Credit Union Event Center, San Jose
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 Grupo Niche
Centro de Convenciones, San Jose
Saturday, Dec. 21st | (More info)

🎵 Left to Die
Pepper Disco Club, San Jose
Saturday, Jan. 25th, 2025 | (More info)

Family

🎁 Holiday Donor Milk Pick-Up
1887 Monterey Road, Suite 105-110, San Jose
Monday, Dec. 23rd | (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 illuminated entirely by bioluminescent plants and structures” 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

The establishment of the first Urban Planning Department (1971) - Innovations in urban development and environmental management.

In 1971, a pioneering step was taken in the field of urban development with the establishment of the first Urban Planning Department in San Jose. This innovative move was aimed at addressing the complexities of urban growth, infrastructure demands, and environmental preservation in a rapidly expanding city. San Jose, then amid an unprecedented population and economic boom, recognized the imperative need for a more structured and foresighted approach to urban development. The formation of the Urban Planning Department was a response to these critical challenges, setting a precedent for urban management with a long-term perspective.

The department's establishment marked the beginning of numerous innovations in urban development and environmental management in San Jose. Initiatives ranged from comprehensive zoning regulations, urban design guidelines, to the adoption of state-of-the-art infrastructure planning methodologies. One of the department's notable contributions was its emphasis on integrating environmental considerations into the urban planning process. This was pioneering at a time when environmental preservation was often sidelined in the rush for economic development. The department championed sustainable development principles, aiming to balance growth with environmental stewardship an approach that would influence urban planning practices far beyond San Jose.

Furthermore, the Urban Planning Department played a critical role in shaping San Jose's identity as a center of innovation and technology. By facilitating land use policies that supported the growth of the tech industry while ensuring the availability of housing and services, the department laid the groundwork for what would become Silicon Valley. This strategic focus not only propelled San Jose's economic ascent but also positioned it as a model for modern urban planning. The department's forward-thinking strategies in urban development and environmental management have thus left a lasting legacy, contributing significantly to San Jose's status as a vibrant, sustainable, and innovative city.

Famous People From San Jose

Irene Dalis (1925–2014) - An opera singer and founder of Opera San Jose.

Irene Dalis was an internationally renowned opera singer and a transformative figure in the American operatic scene. Her journey from a simple beginning in San Jose to the grand stages of the world's most prestigious opera houses is a testament to her talent, determination, and vision.

Early Years in San Jose (1925-1947)

Born in San Jose, California, Dalis's affinity for music was evident from a young age. Growing up in a supportive environment, she honed her vocal skills while embracing her cultural heritage. Dalis's early experiences in San Jose rooted her love for music and community, setting the stage for her illustrious career.

Musical Education and Rising Stardom (1948-1953)

Dalis pursued her passion for opera with fervent dedication. She attended San Jose State University, furthering her musical education, before securing a scholarship to study at the prestigious Columbia University. Her exceptional talent soon caught the attention of critics and fans alike, marking the onset of a brilliant operatic career.

Achieving International Fame (1953-1965)

Dalis's voice and commanding stage presence led her to the world's most famous opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Her roles spanned the dramatic spectrum, earning accolades and establishing her as a formidable mezzo-soprano on the international stage.

Homecoming and Continued Success (1965-1975)

Despite her global acclaim, Dalis remained deeply connected to her roots in San Jose. In the midst of her international career, she frequently returned to her hometown, sharing her talent and experience with aspiring artists and the community that supported her growth.

Transition to Education and Mentorship (1975-1983)

As her career on stage began to wind down, Dalis transitioned into a new role as an educator and mentor. She joined the faculty at San Jose State University, her alma mater, where she dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of opera talent.

Founder of Opera San Jose (1984-1990)

Dalis's vision for opera in her hometown led to the establishment of Opera San Jose in 1984. Her goal was to create a resident company that would cultivate emerging artists and bring world-class opera to the San Jose community. Under her guidance, Opera San Jose flourished, becoming an integral part of the city's cultural landscape.

Leading Opera San Jose to New Heights (1990-2002)

Under Dalis's leadership, Opera San Jose continued to grow, attracting talent and audience members from across the country. Her commitment to high standards and her profound understanding of opera's power to inspire made the company a beacon of artistic excellence.

Retirement and Legacy (2002-2014)

Dalis retired from her active role at Opera San Jose, but her influence persisted. The organization remained a testament to her vision, commitment to education, and belief in the transformative power of the arts. Until her passing in 2014, Dalis was celebrated as a pillar of the San Jose and international opera communities.

Irene Dalis's Lasting Influence (2014 and Beyond)

The passing of Irene Dalis marked the end of an era but also the beginning of a lasting legacy. Her work with Opera San Jose and her contributions to the world of opera continue to resonate, inspiring new generations of musicians and opera enthusiasts.

Remembering Irene Dalis (2014 and Beyond)

Dalis left behind an indelible mark on the opera world and her community. Her journey from San Jose to the international stage, and back again, reflects a life lived with passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the arts.

Key Achievements of Irene Dalis:

• Internationally acclaimed opera singer with a career spanning several decades.

• Founder of Opera San Jose, transforming the city's cultural landscape and fostering new operatic talent.

• Accomplished educator and mentor, nurturing future generations of musicians and opera singers.

• Significant contributor to the global appreciation of opera, bringing the art form to wider audiences.

Irene Dalis's story is one of incomparable talent, visionary leadership, and profound dedication to the community. From the stages of the world back to San Jose, she built bridges through music, leaving a legacy that continues to enrich lives and inspire aspiring artists everywhere. Her life's work reaffirms the power of art to transform communities and individuals alike.

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons

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