Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• East Bay sites are grabbed for $100 million-plus in big property deal

• Upcoming Alicia Villarreal concert

• A deep-dive into the life of James Lick

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Growth is the only evidence of life."

— John Henry Newman

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!

The San Jose Flea Market, one of the largest of its kind in the United States, was established in what year?

A) 1957

B) 1960

C) 1972

D) 1985

Answer to Week 14's Trivia:

The major tech company, headquartered in San Jose, that is a global leader in networking hardware and telecommunications equipment is B) Cisco Systems.

News

💼 Business

Fired Google employees file formal complaint. (Link)

Reliable Robotics signs deal with aircraft leasing company. (Link)

Warren Buffett defends Apple even after selling millions of shares. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Terrell Owens said he'd be 'pissed' if he were two 49ers wide receivers. (Link)

'Broken up our community': Pickleballers still fume after battle over San Francisco courts. (Link)

Former 49ers wide receiver bashes team: 'Nothing short of entitlement. (Link)

🏦 Finance

East Bay sites are grabbed for $100 million-plus in big property deal. (Link)

Guaranteed income: Google is giving recently homeless Bay Area families $1,000 a month. Will it help? (Link)

Silicon Valley leaders push multibillion-dollar housing bond. (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

⚽ San Diego Wave FC at Bay FC
PayPal Park, San Jose
Friday, May 17th | (More info)

🥊 Fight Night At The Tech
Tech CU Arena, San Jose
Saturday, May 18th | (More info)

⚽ NJ/NY Gotham FC at Bay FC
PayPal Park, San Jose
Friday, May 24th | (More info)

Concerts

🎸 Electric Six (21+)
The Ritz - San Jose, San Jose
Wednesday, May 15th | (More info)

🎤 Alicia Villarreal
San Jose Civic, San Jose
Friday, May 17th | (More info)

🎶 Pandora
San Jose Civic, San Jose
Wednesday, May 22nd | (More info)

Family Friendly Events

🐠 Lakeshore's Undersea Discovery
1099 South Bascom Avenue, San Jose
Saturday, May 18th | (More info)

🏃 ROCC "Running Over Childhood Cancer" Family Fun Run
6099 Winfield Boulevard, San Jose
Saturday, May 18th | (More info)

🌸 Spring Fest at the Nursery
1000 Spring St, San Jose
Saturday, May 18th | (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 “Post-apocalyptic San Jose reclaimed by nature” 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

Opening of San Jose International Airport (1945) - Facilitating regional and later international travel and commerce.

The opening of San Jose International Airport in 1945 marked a pivotal moment in the development and connectivity of San Jose, positioning the city as a significant hub for regional travel and commerce. Initially established to serve the burgeoning needs of the local and regional communities, the airport facilitated an era of economic growth and cultural exchange that would profoundly impact the Santa Clara Valley. Its inception during the post-war period was timely, as the economy was transitioning from military to civilian purposes, and there was a burgeoning demand for efficient transportation infrastructure to support the rapidly expanding technology and agricultural sectors in the region.

Over time, the San Jose International Airport expanded its operations significantly, evolving from a modest regional facility into an important gateway for international travel. This transition broadened San Jose's economic and cultural horizons, enabling direct access to global markets and fostering an environment conducive to the city's development into a global city. The introduction of international flights was instrumental in attracting businesses and talent from around the world, particularly bolstering the region's burgeoning technology sector, which would later earn the moniker ""Silicon Valley."" The airport's growth mirrored the city's own transformation, facilitating the mobility of people and goods that is crucial for the tech industry's dynamic and globally interconnected ecosystem.

Today, the San Jose International Airport stands as a testament to the city's foresight in recognizing the critical role of transportation infrastructure in urban and economic development. It continues to serve as a vital conduit for international travel and commerce, supporting not just the local economy but also the global operations of Silicon Valley's tech giants. The airport's evolution from a regional airport to an international gateway reflects the broader growth trajectory of San Jose, highlighting the intrinsic link between connectivity and economic prosperity. As the airport looks to the future, it remains an essential component of the region's infrastructure, ready to adapt to the changing needs of the global economy and the communities it serves.

Famous People From San Jose

James Lick (1796–1876) :

Entrepreneur and philanthropist who made significant contributions to San Jose and California:

James Lick, an influential entrepreneur and philanthropist, significantly impacted California, particularly San Jose, through his extensive investments and generous donations. His multifaceted life journey from a modest background to becoming one of the wealthiest men in California is a remarkable tale of perseverance, vision, and generosity.

Early Life and Apprenticeship (1796-1818)

Born in Stumpstown (now Fredericksburg), Pennsylvania, to a German cabinetmaker, James inherited his father's craftsmanship and industrious nature. Demonstrating a keen interest in the trades from a young age, he apprenticed as a pianoforte maker, mastering the skill which would become the foundation of his later fortune.

Journeyman Years and South America (1819-1847)

Seeking broader horizons, Lick left Pennsylvania, spending time in Baltimore, New York, and Europe, improving his craft. Eventually, he ventured to South America. In Buenos Aires, Valparaíso, and Lima, he established successful piano-making businesses, catering to the affluent classes. His South American enterprises laid the groundwork for his future wealth.

Relocation to California (1848)

With news of the California Gold Rush, Lick moved to San Francisco, arriving with significant savings and a shipload of materials, anticipating the booming demand in the rapidly growing city. Instead of seeking gold, Lick invested in real estate, buying land in San Francisco and around San Jose, displaying his foresight in business matters.

San Jose Investments (1848-1855)

Lick's connection to San Jose began with his strategic investments in land and water rights. Recognizing the agricultural potential of the Santa Clara Valley, he bought large acreages, developed flour mills, and contributed to the area's economy. He also started building the luxurious Lick House hotel in San Francisco, showcasing his ambition and business acumen.

Innovative Agriculture (1856-1865)

Diversifying his interests, Lick pursued innovative agricultural practices on his San Jose estate, cultivating exotic plants and trees, and establishing one of the first commercial orchards in California. His successful experiments with fruits, notably prunes, helped transform the agricultural landscape of the region.

Philanthropic Aspirations (1866-1874):

Later in life, Lick began contemplating his legacy. Initially planning significant monuments to himself, he was persuaded to use his fortune for the public good. This change of heart led to plans for several philanthropic projects, including a trust to fund public works and educational institutions.

The Lick Observatory (1875-1876):

The most famous of Lick's philanthropic contributions was the funding of the Lick Observatory atop Mount Hamilton, near San Jose. It was a monumental and visionary project, providing the University of California with the world's most powerful telescope at the time of its completion. Unfortunately, Lick died in 1876, a year before the observatory opened, but his generosity made a lasting impact on the scientific community.

Final Years and Legacy (1874-1876):

In his final years, Lick finalized plans for his estate, ensuring his wealth would support his philanthropic visions. He passed away in 1876, leaving a legacy that reflected not only his business acumen but also his deep commitment to the public good.

Key Achievements of James Lick:

• Successful entrepreneur with strategic investments in real estate and agriculture.

• A significant contributor to San Jose's economy, particularly in its agricultural development.

• Established the Lick Observatory, providing a major advancement in astronomical research and education.

• His philanthropy supported various public projects, including schools, libraries, and scientific endeavors.

• Left a lasting impact on California through his investments and generous donations.

James Lick's legacy is marked by his transformation from a skilled tradesman to one of the wealthiest men in California, using his fortune to benefit the public. Through strategic investments and innovative agricultural practices, he significantly contributed to San Jose's development. His most enduring legacy, the Lick Observatory, stands as a testament to his vision and generosity, making him a notable figure in California's history.

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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