Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Family Fun at Happy Hollow

• Upcoming Bay Area free flag football events

• A deep-dive into the life of Tully Knoles

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday.”

- Matt Haig

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 is the name of the annual San Jose cultural festival that celebrates Vietnamese heritage with food, music, and dance?

A) San Jose Jazz Festival

B) Tet Festival

C) Silicon Valley Comic Con

D) San Jose Obon Festival

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

San Jose State University, established in 1857, holds the distinction of being C) The oldest public institution of higher education in the California State University system.

News

💼 Business

San Jose homeless residents on Microsoft land worry about sweep. (Link)

Silicon Valley ‘firing on most of its cylinders’ despite tech layoffs. (Link)

Santa Clara County caps district project spending at $1 million amid budget challenges. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Scott Hannan named Director of San Jose Sharks Junior Sharks Hockey Club​​. (Link)

Magnus Chrona's improved performance in Sharks' shootout loss to Stars shows growth​​. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Outset Medical to present at TD Cowen Health Care Conference, showcasing dialysis technology advancements​​. (Link)

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield to sell 1.1 million sq ft Westfield Oakridge Mall in San Jose as part of US portfolio optimization​​. (Link)

BKM Capital Partners acquires Junction Business Park in San Jose for $31 million, expanding its Silicon Valley footprint​​. (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

🏈 Bay Area Free Flag Football Events!
San Jose High School, San Jose
March 16 | (More info)

🏈 Pick Up Game of Flag Football
Parma Park, San Jose
March 16 | (More info)

Concerts

🎉 Insomniac (18+)
San Jose Civic, San Jose, CA
Friday, Mar. 15th | (More info)

🎵 Reverend Horton Heat (21+)
The Ritz - San Jose, San Jose, CA
Friday, Mar. 15th | (More info)

Family Friendly Events

🎉 Family Fun at Happy Hollow
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, San Jose
March 16 | (More info)

📚 Indoor Family Storytime
Evergreen Branch Library, San Jose
March 14 | (More info)

📘 Reading to Children
San Jose Public Library
March 12 | (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 streets bustling with holographic advertisements” 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

Completion of the San Jose to San Francisco Railroad (1864)

The completion of the San Jose to San Francisco Railroad in 1864 marked a monumental advancement in the transportation infrastructure of California, particularly enhancing the connectivity between San Jose and San Francisco. Prior to the establishment of the railroad, the primary means of transport between these two pivotal cities were stagecoaches and ships navigating the San Francisco Bay, which were considerably slower and less reliable. The new rail link not only signified a technological leap forward but also promised to catalyze economic growth and foster closer ties within the region.

With the introduction of the railroad, the journey time between San Jose and San Francisco was dramatically reduced, enabling more frequent and predictable movement of goods and people. This newfound efficiency opened up numerous economic opportunities, facilitating the export of agricultural produce from the fertile Santa Clara Valley to the burgeoning markets in San Francisco and beyond. Moreover, it made San Jose more accessible, attracting investors and settlers who contributed to the city's growth and development. The railroad essentially acted as a crucial artery, pumping vitality into the region's economy and laying the groundwork for Silicon Valley’s future ascent as a global technological hub.

Beyond its economic implications, the completion of the railroad also had a profound social impact, knitting together the communities of San Jose and San Francisco. It enabled greater mobility and interaction between people from these areas, enriching the cultural and social fabric of the region. Educational and recreational opportunities became more accessible, and the exchange of ideas and traditions flourished. Over time, the San Jose to San Francisco railroad became more than just a mode of transportation; it transformed into a symbol of progress and unity, heralding a new era of connectivity and prosperity for the Bay Area.

Famous People From San Jose

Tully Knoles (1876–1958)

Tully Knoles was a revered educator, historian, and chronicler of San Jose's early history. His life and work offer deep insight into the academic and social landscapes of California during his time.

Early Years and Education (1876–1898):

Born into the burgeoning post-Gold Rush era of California, Tully Knoles came of age at a time when the state was undergoing significant transformations. His academic journey began in the educational institutions of his home state, where his passion for history and teaching first took root. Here, Knoles nurtured a burgeoning interest in the narratives that shaped California, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Beginning of Academic Endeavors (1899–1910):

Knoles’ early career was marked by his commitment to education. After completing his own studies, he quickly transitioned into teaching, dedicating himself to the development of young minds. During this period, he also pursued further qualifications, enriching his expertise in history, which would become a cornerstone of his professional life.

Expanding Horizons in Education (1911–1920):

The next decade saw Knoles expand his educational impact, moving into roles that allowed him to shape academic curricula. His dedication to promoting a deeper understanding of history among students solidified his reputation as a distinguished educator. Throughout these years, Knoles also began to lay the groundwork for his historical writings, drawing on his extensive knowledge and research skills.

A Deepening Connection to San Jose (1921–1930):

During the 1920s, Knoles' connection to San Jose became increasingly prominent. He delved into the city's early history, uncovering stories and facts long forgotten. His work during this period was instrumental in documenting the evolution of San Jose from its founding days, highlighting its role in California's broader historical tapestry.

Historian of San Jose (1931–1940):

The 1930s cemented Knoles' status as a significant historian of San Jose. His publications on the city's early days offered invaluable insights into its development, societal norms, and historical significance. These works not only contributed substantially to local historiography but also enhanced Knoles’ standing as a historian of note.

Champion of Historical Education (1941–1950):

Amidst a world affected by war and significant social changes, Knoles championed the importance of historical education. He believed in the power of understanding the past to navigate the present and future. During this period, his efforts in education were intertwined with his historical research, illustrating his belief in an informed society.

Later Years and Reflections (1951–1958):

In his final years, Knoles reflected on the evolution of San Jose's historiography and the integral role education played in societal development. His commitment to history and education remained unwavering, as he continued to inspire future historians and educators. Knoles' legacy as a historian of San Jose and advocate for education solidified in these twilight years.

Key Achievements

• Renowned as a leading historian for his detailed documentation of San Jose's early history.

• Pioneered educational reforms and methodologies that emphasized the importance of history in academic curricula.

• Authored several influential works that remain critical resources for understanding the early developments of San Jose and California.

• Served as a mentor and inspiration to a generation of educators and historians, promoting a lifelong dedication to learning and inquiry.

Tully Knoles was an extraordinary educator and historian whose life's work significantly impacted how history is taught and understood, particularly regarding San Jose's early days. His meticulous research and passion for education helped preserve San Jose's historical legacy and inspired countless individuals to value the past. Knoles' contributions to historical scholarship and education epitomize a life dedicated to academic excellence and societal enlightenment.

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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