San Jose Newsletter (July 1st)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • AI chip startup takes on Nvidia with $120M funding round.

  • Upcoming San Jose Giants match

  • A deep-dive into the life of Henry Morris Naglee

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"Few things can help an individual more than to place responsibility on him, and to let him know that you trust him."

— Booker T. Washington

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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!

San Jose's Christmas in the Park is a holiday tradition that transforms which downtown area into a festive winter wonderland?

A) Plaza de Cesar Chavez

B) San Pedro Square

C) Santana Row

D) St. James Park

Answer to Week 21's Trivia:

The San Jose neighborhood known for its antique shops and Victorian houses, once a separate town, is A) Willow Glen.

News

💼 Business

UK study sheds light on Silicon Valley's 'inequality and sameness'. (Link)

Mitsubishi HC Capital America hires new VP Head of Direct Sales. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Klay Thompson reportedly closer than ever to leaving the Warriors. (Link)

49ers' Brock Purdy gets mobbed by hundreds of kids in visit. (Link)

🏦 Finance

AI chip startup takes on Nvidia with $120M funding 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

Stockton Ports at San Jose Giants
Excite Ballpark, San Jose
Tue, Jul 2 and Wed, Jul 3 | (More info)

Chicago Fire FC at San Jose Earthquakes
PayPal Park, San Jose
Sun, Jul 7 | (More info)

Concerts

🎤 Bronco
Parque Viva, San Jose
Sat, Jul 6 | (More info)

🎤 Alex Zurdo
Unknown venue, San Jose
Fri, Jul 12 | (More info)

Family Friendly Events

🏌️ Summer Academy 2024 Topgolf San Jose
10 Topgolf Drive, San Jose
Starting Mon, Jul 8 | (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 gravity-defying 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 Loma Prieta Earthquake (1989) - Significant impact on San Jose and the surrounding area.

The Loma Prieta earthquake, striking on October 17, 1989, had a profound impact on San Jose and its surrounding regions. With a moment magnitude of 6.9, the earthquake was centered in the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park approximately 60 miles south of San Francisco. Yet, its effects were felt strongly in San Jose, showcasing the extensive reach of its power. The seismic event caused significant structural damage, leading to the closure of businesses and schools, and disrupting the daily life of San Jose's residents. The quake not only underscored the vulnerability of the area's infrastructure but also tested the resilience of its communities.

In San Jose, the aftermath of the earthquake saw a mixed picture of destruction, resilience, and recovery. Buildings, homes, and roads suffered damage, with older structures, particularly those not built to modern seismic standards, being the most affected. The quake highlighted the need for stronger building codes and retrofitting efforts to safeguard against future seismic events. Emergency services were stretched to their limits, but the response from local communities and the wider Bay Area was swift and coordinated, showcasing a strong spirit of solidarity and mutual aid. Schools and community centers became focal points for recovery efforts, providing shelter and support for those affected.

The Loma Prieta earthquake acted as a catalyst for change in San Jose and the entire Bay Area, accelerating advancements in earthquake preparedness and response. Infrastructure projects in the following years focused on increasing resilience to seismic activity, with significant investments in upgrading buildings, bridges, and highways. The disaster also led to heightened community awareness and preparedness initiatives, ensuring that residents were better equipped with the knowledge and resources to respond to future earthquakes. In reflecting on the event, San Jose emerged not only as a city keen on rebuilding its physical structures but also as a community committed to strengthening its collective capacity to face natural disasters with greater resolve and preparedness.

Famous People From San Jose

Henry Morris Naglee (1815–1886) -

Army officer and vintner, significant in developing San Jose's wine industry:

Henry Morris Naglee, a multifaceted individual, significantly contributed to the American Civil War as an army officer and later pioneered the development of San Jose's wine industry. His life story encapsulates the essence of innovation, military service, and viticulture, marking him as a standout figure in both historical and agricultural realms.

Early Life and Military Beginnings (1815-1837):

Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Henry Morris Naglee embarked on his journey with a keen interest in military tactics and agriculture. After graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point, he promptly entered the army, marking the inception of a career that would span several decades, characterized by bravery and dedication.

Military Service and the Mexican-American War (1837-1848):

Naglee's military acumen was first put to the test during the Mexican-American War, where he served with distinction. His participation in this conflict solidified his reputation as a competent and brave officer, laying the groundwork for his future contributions to the military.

Business Ventures and Early Winemaking (1849-1859):

Following his military service, Naglee ventured into various business opportunities, including banking in San Francisco. However, it was his interest in viticulture that would eventually define his legacy. By experimenting with wine production, he began to lay the foundations for a successful enterprise in a field that was still in its infancy in California.

Return to Military Service: The Civil War (1861-1865):

With the outbreak of the Civil War, Naglee returned to military service, commanding the 16th Pennsylvania Cavalry Regiment and later playing a significant role in the Peninsula Campaign. His leadership and tactical skills were recognized through several commendations, highlighting his commitment to his country.

Development of the Naglee Park Estate (1866-1870):

After the war, Naglee turned his full attention to agriculture and viticulture, purchasing land in San Jose to establish the Naglee Park Estate. Here, he focused on the cultivation of European grape varieties, contributing significantly to the emerging wine industry in the Santa Clara Valley.

Pioneering Viticulture in San Jose (1870-1880):

Naglee's connection to San Jose became most apparent through his efforts to revolutionize the wine industry. By employing innovative viticultural practices and focusing on quality wine production, he played a crucial role in establishing the region as a key player in California’s winemaking history.

Personal Life and Philanthropy (Throughout lifetime):

Beyond his professional endeavors, Naglee was known for his philanthropic efforts and personal life, which included a notable correspondence with Clara Harris, revealing a side of him that was both introspective and passionate. His personal papers provide insights into the character of a man who was as complex as he was ambitious.

Honors and Recognition (Throughout lifetime):

Throughout his life, Naglee received numerous accolades for his military service and contributions to the wine industry. Although not all of his ventures were met with success, his perseverance and innovative spirit were widely recognized and celebrated.

Legacy and Death (1886):

Henry Morris Naglee passed away in 1886, leaving behind a legacy characterized by military honor and pioneering contributions to the wine industry. His estate, particularly in San Jose, continued to flourish, serving as a testament to his vision and dedication.

Remembering Henry Morris Naglee (1886 and Beyond):

Naglee's life story has continued to inspire generations, serving as a reminder of the impact one individual can have on both their country and their community. His contributions to American viticulture, especially in the Santa Clara Valley, remain a significant part of California's winemaking history.

Key Achievements of Henry Morris Naglee:

  • Served with distinction in the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War, demonstrating exceptional military leadership.

  • Pioneered innovative viticultural practices in San Jose, significantly contributing to the development of California's wine industry.

  • Founded the Naglee Park Estate, marking a turning point in the cultivation of European grape varieties in the region.

  • Left a lasting legacy in both military and agricultural fields, impacting future generations.

Henry Morris Naglee's biography encapsulates a story of dedication, from his significant military service to his pioneering role in establishing San Jose as a key area for viticulture in California. His contributions to agriculture, particularly the wine industry, alongside his military accolades, paint the picture of a man deeply committed to his country and its development. Naglee's life and work continue to inspire, illustrating the profound impact one individual can have across diverse fields.

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-Matthew Larsen

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