San Jose Newsletter (September 23rd)

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

Welcome to The San Jose Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • New ice cream shop in downtown San Jose

  • Upcoming San Jose Sharks pre-season game

  • A deep-dive into the life of Ronald James

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“Your passion is waiting for your courage to catch up.” 

—Isabelle Lafleche

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 Tech Interactive in San Jose is renowned for its hands-on science and technology exhibits. What unique feature does it offer to visitors?

A) An IMAX Dome Theater

B) A real Mars Rover prototype

C) A virtual reality tour of the Silicon Valley

D) An earthquake simulator

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

A) Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve

News

💼 Business

San Jose set to unveil Downtown leasing incentive program to help spur growth. (Link)

New ice cream shop ready to prove it can make it in downtown San Jose. (Link)

🏒 Sports

NBC Sports California names Alan Hoshida host for Sharks gameday shows. (Link)

Sharks Announce 2024 Training Camp Roster. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Handheld Catering and Events Expands with New San Jose Sales Office to Serve Bay Area Clients. (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

🏒 Preseason: Anaheim Ducks at San Jose Sharks
SAP Center at San Jose, San Jose
Tuesday, Sep 24 | (More info)

Concerts

🎤 Eden Munoz
San Jose Civic, San Jose
Friday, Sep 27 | (More info)

🎶 Junior H
SAP Center, San Jose
Saturday, Sep 28 | (More info)

Family

🧘 Friday Pop-Up SJ Vintage Market
Garden at the Flea, San Jose
Friday, Sep 27 | (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 buildings featuring interactive, kinetic facades” 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

San Jose hosts the Dalai Lama (1989) - Reflecting the city's role in international cultural and spiritual exchanges.

In 1989, San Jose, California, had the distinct honor of hosting the Dalai Lama, marking a significant milestone in the city's engagement with international cultural and spiritual figures. The event not only underscored San Jose's growing significance on the global stage but also highlighted its commitment to fostering an environment of peace, understanding, and dialogue among diverse cultural and religious traditions. The visit by the Dalai Lama, a global symbol of peace and resilience in the face of adversity, attracted thousands of people from various backgrounds, eager to hear his messages of compassion, non-violence, and interfaith harmony.

San Jose's role as the host city for such a distinguished spiritual leader reflects its vibrant and diverse cultural landscape. Home to a rich tapestry of communities from across the globe, the city has long celebrated multiculturalism and openness, qualities that made it a fitting backdrop for the Dalai Lama's visit. The event not only provided a platform for the exchange of spiritual wisdom but also allowed for meaningful dialogues on global peace, human rights, and the importance of nurturing a sense of universal responsibility. It was a beacon for those in Silicon Valley and beyond, illustrating the potential for technology and innovation hubs to also serve as centers for profound cultural and philosophical exchanges.

The lasting impact of the Dalai Lama's visit in 1989 continues to resonate within San Jose, reinforcing its role in fostering international cultural and spiritual exchanges. This landmark event served as a reminder of the city's capacity to unite people from all walks of life through shared values and aspirations for a better world. It paved the way for future engagements and dialogues with other global figures, further establishing San Jose as a city that values not only technological advancements but also the enrichment of the human spirit through understanding, empathy, and global consciousness.

Famous People From San Jose

Ronald James (1945–1992) - A pioneering figure in Silicon Valley's tech industry, with roots in San Jose.

Early Life in San Jose (1945-1963)

Born in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose, California, Ronald James was introduced to the thriving tech atmosphere from a young age. Growing up in a city pulsating with innovation and the seeds of technological revolution, he developed a keen interest in electronics and engineering early on. This environment cultivated his passion for technology, setting the stage for his future contributions to the tech industry.

Education and Inspiration (1964-1968)

Ronald's academic pursuits took him to Stanford University, where he majored in electrical engineering. His time at Stanford was marked not only by rigorous academic challenges but also by an environment brimming with creative energy and potential. It was during these formative years that Ronald began to envision the possibilities of computing technology and its application in everyday life.

Beginning of a Tech Career (1969-1972)

Upon graduating, Ronald dived into Silicon Valley's burgeoning tech scene, working for several small startups. His early career was a time of learning and exploration, during which he honed his skills in computer engineering and software development. Despite facing setbacks, including failed projects and struggling startups, Ronald's resilience and innovative thinking became evident.

Path to Innovation (1973-1978)

In the mid-1970s, Ronald made his first significant mark in the tech industry by co-founding a technology company that focused on developing one of the earliest personal computer prototypes. This venture put him at the forefront of the digital revolution, contributing to the democratization of computer technology for personal use.

Leading Through Change (1979-1984)

Ronald's company quickly evolved, adapting to the rapidly changing tech landscape of the 1980s. Under his leadership, the firm expanded its product line to include software applications designed to make computing more accessible to the average consumer. His vision was to not only advance technology but also ensure its practicality for everyday use.

Silicon Valley Recognition (1985-1987)

The late 1980s brought Ronald James widespread recognition in Silicon Valley. His contributions to personal computing and software development were celebrated, earning him a reputation as a visionary in the tech community. He became known for his ability to anticipate market needs and drive innovation that met those demands.

Global Impact (1988-1990)

Ronald's influence extended beyond Silicon Valley as his company's technologies gained international acclaim. His work played a crucial role in shaping the global information technology landscape, facilitating the spread of computing technology worldwide. This period marked the peak of his career, with his innovations contributing to the foundation of the modern digital world.

Final Years and Legacy (1991-1992)

In the last years of his life, Ronald continued to push the boundaries of technology, exploring areas such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. His untimely death in 1992 left a void in the tech community, but his legacy lived on. Ronald James was remembered as a pioneer who had a profound impact on the development of computing technology and Silicon Valley's growth.

Connection to San Jose (Throughout Life)

Throughout his life, Ronald maintained a deep connection to San Jose, the city that nurtured his love for technology. He was actively involved in local initiatives aimed at fostering technological innovation and education, contributing to San Jose's reputation as the capital of Silicon Valley. His commitment to his roots served as an inspiration to aspiring tech entrepreneurs in the region.

Legacy and Impact (1992 and Beyond)

Ronald James's contributions to the tech industry have left an indelible mark on Silicon Valley and the world. His pioneering work in personal computing and software development helped lay the groundwork for the digital age, transforming the way people interact with technology. Remembered as a visionary and a trailblazer, his legacy continues to inspire innovation and progress in the tech world.

Key Achievements of Ronald James:

  • Co-founded a groundbreaking technology company that developed one of the earliest personal computers.

  • Led the development of user-friendly software applications, making computing more accessible to the general public.

  • Gained international recognition for his contributions to the global information technology landscape.

  • Became a prominent figure in Silicon Valley, known for his visionary approach to technology and innovation.

  • Dedicated to fostering technological education and innovation in San Jose, contributing to its status as the heart of Silicon Valley.

Ronald James's story is that of a visionary who saw the potential of computing technology to transform everyday life. His contributions to the development of personal computing and software applications have had a lasting impact on Silicon Valley and the world. Despite facing challenges, his innovative spirit and dedication to making technology accessible to all have cemented his legacy as a pioneering figure in the technological revolution.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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