Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Gov. Newsom sending funding to San Jose

• New GM rumors for the Golden State Warriors

• A deep-dive into the life of Frederick Billing

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened."

– Lao Tzu

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 historical landmark in San Jose is known for its mysterious architecture, created by the widow of the inventor of the Winchester rifle?

A) The Peralta Adobe

B) The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

C) The Winchester Mystery House

D) The Tech Interactive

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Japanese Friendship Garden is located in B) Kelley Park

News

💼 Business

San Jose's Urban Putt brings more 'experiential retail' to downtown. (link)

Amidst a declining office market, a Santa Clara developer is pivoting from office to industrial space to adapt to current market conditions​​. (link)

In an effort to manage public spaces, San Jose has created a 'no return zone' for homeless residents along a river trail. (link)

Despite mixed opinions, San Jose's mayor has declared the city the safest in the Bay Area. (link)

🏒 Sports

NBA veteran Andre Iguodala invests in Bay FC, a new National Women's Soccer League franchise, enhancing women's soccer's profile in the region. (link)

Speculation mounts over whether Sam Darnold or Trey Lance will start as quarterback for the SF 49ers following OTA sessions. (link)

Mike Dunleavy Jr. is rumored to be the next GM for the Golden State Warriors, following Bob Myers' departure. (link)

The San Jose Sharks unveil a new Penthouse Lounge at SAP Center, offering premium amenities for fans. (link)

🏦 Finance

Santa Clara County won’t appeal 49ers tax break ruling, ending a yearslong debate. (link)

Gov. Newsom will send funding to San Jose, not premade tiny homes as promised. (link)

A2B Movers San Jose Redefines Excellence in Commercial Moving Services. (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

🤼‍♂️ Pro Wrestling Revolution
Mt. Pleasant High School, San Jose
Sunday, Feb 24th | (More Info)

🏒 San Jose Sharks vs Vegas Golden Knights
SAP Center, San Jose
Tuesday, Feb 19th | (More Info)

⚾ Mini-Hawk (Baseball & Soccer)
Doerr Park, San Jose, CA
Wednesday, Feb 21, 2024 | (More Info)

🏀 Basketball @ Bascom
Bascom Community Center, San Jose, CA
Tuesday, Feb 20, 2024 | (More Info)

Concerts

🎤 Pablo Alboran
San Jose Civic, San Jose
Wed Feb 21 | (More Info)

🎶Morat
San Jose Civic, San Jose, CA
Thu Feb 22 | (More Info)

🎸The Surfrajettes (21+)
The Ritz - San Jose, San Jose, CA
Fri Feb 23 | (More Info)

Family Friendly Events

🎨 Presidents’ Day Art Camp 
Westfield Valley Fair
Santa Clara Monday, Feb 19th | (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 “Retro-futuristic 1950s style San Jose with modern technology” 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

Admission of California into the Union (1850)

The admission of California into the Union in 1850 was a landmark event that reshaped the political landscape of the United States, with San Jose playing a pivotal role as a center of political activity. During this time, San Jose was at the forefront of the debates and discussions that would define California's entry as the 31st state. The city's strategic location and its status as a burgeoning center of commerce, culture, and politics made it a natural gathering place for lawmakers, activists, and influencers of the day.

In the lead-up to statehood, San Jose hosted a series of important meetings and conventions that would lay the groundwork for California's constitution and its stance on critical issues such as slavery, governance, and the legal system. The city's involvement was instrumental in rallying support for a free state and in shaping the policies that would govern California. The spirited debates and political maneuvering in San Jose reflected the broader national tensions over slavery and state rights, echoing the complexities of joining a Union on the brink of civil war.

San Jose's contribution to California's admission into the Union is a testament to its historical significance as a political hub. The events that unfolded within its boundaries not only influenced the immediate outcome of California's statehood but also set precedents for the state's political identity. The legacy of these formative years continues to be felt in San Jose and across California, marking the city as a key player in the state's rich history of political activism and civic engagement.

Famous People From San Jose

Frederick Billing (1822–1880)

The Early Years (1822–1842)

Frederick Billing was born in 1822, in a small town in England. From a young age, he showed an entrepreneurial spirit, engaging in small trade and learning the basics of business from his family. Driven by the desire for new opportunities, Billing decided to leave England in pursuit of the American dream.

Journey to America (1842–1845)

In 1842, Billing embarked on his journey to America. The voyage was arduous and took several months, but it brought him to the bustling shores of New York. Initially working odd jobs, he saved enough money to move westward, drawn by the promise of opportunity and expansion.

Arrival in San Jose (1845–1850)

Billing arrived in San Jose, California, in the late 1840s, a period when California was on the cusp of monumental change. San Jose, with its fertile land and strategic location, offered the perfect backdrop for Billing to start his new life and embark on his business ventures.

The Business Ventures (1850–1860)

In the 1850s, Billing established himself as a prominent businessman in San Jose. He ventured into agriculture, capitalizing on the fertile soil, and later diversified into real estate, recognizing the potential for growth as more settlers arrived. His businesses flourished, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Political Involvement (1860–1870)

As his businesses prospered, Billing became more involved in local politics. His contributions to the city's development were recognized, and he played a key role in the infrastructure projects that would shape San Jose's future. His efforts were pivotal in improving roads, public services, and educational institutions.

Philanthropic Endeavors (1870–1880)

Billing's success in business was matched by his generosity. He donated land and funds to build schools and was instrumental in establishing the first public library in San Jose. His philanthropy left a lasting impact on the community, enriching the lives of many residents.

The Final Years (1880)

Frederick Billing's health began to decline in the late 1870s, but his commitment to San Jose never wavered. He continued to work on community projects and support local causes until his passing in 1880. Billing's legacy was that of a pioneer who not only sought personal success but also aimed to uplift those around him.

Legacy and Impact on San Jose

Billing's influence on San Jose was profound. Through his business acumen and philanthropic efforts, he helped shape the city into a thriving community. His contributions to San Jose's development were remembered long after his death, cementing his place as a key figure in the city's history.

Key Achievements:

• Established successful agricultural and real estate businesses in San Jose, contributing to the city's economic growth.

• Played a significant role in local politics, advocating for improvements in infrastructure, public services, and education.

• Donated land and resources for the development of public schools and San Jose's first public library, demonstrating his commitment to the community's well-being.

Frederick Billing's life story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on the growth and development of a community. Through his business ventures and philanthropic efforts, he significantly contributed to the prosperity and infrastructure of San Jose, leaving a lasting legacy. Billing's dedication to the city's welfare and his role as a pioneer and businessman underscore the profound influence he had on shaping San Jose's future.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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