Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• San Jose anticipates job cuts amid budget shortfall.

• Upcoming Justin Timberlake concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Al Ruffo

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”

– Friedrich Nietzsche

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!

Which major tech company, headquartered in San Jose, is a global leader in networking hardware and telecommunications equipment?

A) Apple Inc.

B) Cisco Systems

C) eBay Inc.

D) Adobe Systems

Answer to Week 13's Trivia:

San Jose's Alum Rock Park, established in 1872, is recognized for being B) The site of the oldest municipal park in California.

News

💼 Business

Developer dumps offices, eyes housing, seeks San Jose property sale. (Link)

Good news: The worst could be over for gas prices this spring. (Link)

California consumers antsy, confidence tumbles to 21-month low. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Dual threat: How a South Bay athlete is juggling two high school sports at same time. (Link)

Kurtenbach: If the Warriors want to contend in 2025, they need to trade Jonathan Kuminga. (Link)

SF Giants blanked in Boston as Red Sox chase Logan Webb in fourth. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Kaiser doctors in Silicon Valley move to unionize. (Link)

San Jose anticipates job cuts amid budget shortfall. (Link)

San Jose police cruise with lowriders on Cinco de Mayo. (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
May 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th | (More info)

⚽ US Open Cup - Oakland Roots SC at San Jose Earthquakes
PayPal Park, San Jose, CA
Tue May 7 | (More info)

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

Concerts

🎤 Justin Timberlake
SAP Center at San Jose, San Jose
Mon May 6 | (More info)

🎤 The Mission UK (21+)
The Ritz - San Jose, San Jose
Wed May 8 | (More info)

🎤 Riley Green with Tracy Lawrence and Ella Langley
San Jose Civic, San Jose
Thu May 9 | (More info)

Family Friendly Events

🌿 Spring BioBlitz at Hellyer Park
996 Hellyer Ave, Southwest trail entrance, San Jose
Saturday, May 11 | (More info)

🎉 Family Festival: Scout-O-Rama
635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose
Saturday, May 11 | (More info)

💻 Free AI Masterclass for Kids
San Jose
Sunday, May 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 with wildlife corridors and roaming animals” 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

Formation of the Food Machinery Corporation (FMC) (1943) - A major industrial and defense manufacturing facility.

The Food Machinery Corporation (FMC) emerged as a pivotal player in both industrial and defense manufacturing sectors, marking a significant transformation in the mid-20th century. Originally established in 1883 as the Bean Spray Pump Company in Los Gatos, California, by John Bean, the company moved to San Jose and underwent several evolutions in response to growing demands and technological advancements. The rebranding to Food Machinery Corporation in 1928 was a reflection of its expanding repertoire, moving beyond agricultural machinery to encompass canning machinery, and later, contributing significantly to defense efforts. By 1943, amidst the throes of World War II, FMC had already established itself as an essential entity in manufacturing machinery not only for food processing but also for the creation of munitions and military vehicles, showcasing its versatility and critical role in supporting the war effort and the economy.

FMC's transition into defense manufacturing was both a strategic and an opportunistic move, given the global demand for military supplies during World War II. The company's expertise in machinery and chemicals provided a substantial foundation for this shift, enabling the production of a variety of military equipment, including the Landing Vehicle Tracked (LVT), an amphibious warfare ship crucial in Pacific battles. This diversification highlighted FMC’s commitment to innovation and its ability to quickly adapt to changing global needs. Furthermore, the company's expansion significantly boosted employment and economic growth in San Jose, attracting a skilled workforce and cementing the city's status as a center for industrial and technological advancement.

Post-World War II, FMC did not simply revert to its pre-war production lines but instead continued to evolve, pushing the boundaries of its original agricultural focus towards broader technological and industrial domains. The company ventured into aerospace, defense contracting, and chemical production, further diversifying its offerings and reinforcing its position as a multifaceted conglomerate. This adaptation not only ensured FMC's survival but also set the stage for San Jose's future development into a hub for innovation and technology. FMC's legacy in San Jose is a testament to the city's industrial history and its pivotal role in shaping the technological landscape of the region.

Famous People From San Jose

Al Ruffo (1908–1999) :

Former mayor of San Jose and influential lawyer:

Al Ruffo stands as an emblematic figure in the history of San Jose, embodying the spirit of dedication, community service, and legal acumen. His life journey from humble beginnings to becoming the mayor of San Jose and a respected lawyer paints a portrait of unwavering commitment to his city and its people.

The Early Years and Education (1908-1930):

Born in San Jose, California, in 1908, to Italian immigrants, Al Ruffo was instilled with a strong sense of community and hard work from a young age. He pursued his education fervently, ultimately earning a law degree from Santa Clara University, setting the stage for a distinguished career in law and public service.

Legal Career and Advocacy (1931-1940):

With his legal practice established in San Jose, Ruffo quickly became known for his advocacy for the underprivileged and his tireless work within the community. He dedicated himself to various causes, offering legal assistance to those who could least afford it and establishing a foundation for his future political endeavors.

Venture into Politics and Mayorship (1941-1950):

Ruffo's deep involvement in the community naturally transitioned into a political career. His charisma, coupled with his genuine concern for his constituents, led to his election as the mayor of San Jose in 1944. During his tenure, he focused on improving the city's infrastructure and services, fostering a greater sense of community and laying the groundwork for San Jose's future growth.

Expansion of San Jose (1951-1960):

As a visionary, Ruffo perceived the potential for San Jose's expansion early on. He was instrumental in annexing surrounding lands to accommodate the city's booming population, which was beginning to burgearist due to the burgeoning tech industry. This forward-thinking approach contributed significantly to San Jose's development into a major urban center.

Champion of Civil Rights and Education (1961-1970):

Throughout the 1960s, Ruffo remained a fervent advocate for civil rights and education. He worked relentlessly to dismantle barriers to equality and to enhance educational opportunities for all citizens. His efforts during these tumultuous times further cemented his legacy as a champion of the people.

Continued Legal Influence and Philanthropy (1971-1980):

Even after retiring from political office, Ruffo continued to wield considerable influence through his legal practice, focusing on significant cases that shaped local and state laws. Moreover, his philanthropic endeavors, particularly in supporting Santa Clara University and local educational programs, showcased his unwavering dedication to fostering community growth and development.

His Connection to San Jose (1981-1990):

Ruffo's bond with San Jose was unbreakable. Throughout the 1980s, he remained a prominent figure in the city's civic and cultural development, spearheading initiatives to preserve its rich heritage while advocating for sustainable urban growth. His contributions during this period were indicative of his lifelong commitment to the city's prosperity.

Reflections and Legacy (1991-1999):

In the final years of his life, Ruffo's contributions to San Jose and its residents were widely recognized. His enduring influence on the city's legal, political, and social fabric became a testament to a life well lived, marked by passionate service and profound integrity.

Passing and Remembrance (1999 and Beyond):

Al Ruffo passed away in 1999, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire in San Jose and beyond. His dedicated service to the city and its inhabitants, his commitment to justice and equality, and his visionary leadership are remembered and celebrated by those who were fortunate enough to witness his impact firsthand.

Key Achievements of Al Ruffo:

• Served as the mayor of San Jose, focusing on infrastructural development and community service.

• Instrumental in the early expansion and urban planning of San Jose, accommodating its growth into a major city.

• Advocated for civil rights and equal educational opportunities, contributing to significant social advancement.

• Maintained a successful legal career, with a focus on supporting underprivileged communities and influencing local and state legislation.

• Devoted to philanthropic efforts, particularly in education, through substantial support to Santa Clara University and local programs.

Al Ruffo's life was characterized by his profound dedication to the city of San Jose, his relentless pursuit of justice and equality, and his unwavering commitment to community service. His contributions as a lawyer, mayor, and advocate for education and civil rights have left an indelible mark on San Jose, shaping its development and ensuring his legacy endures for generations to come.

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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