Welcome to The San Diego Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• UC San Diego School of Medicine develops acne vaccine

• College Football Holiday Bowl coming this week

• A deep dive into the life of Ray Kroc

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.”

-Willie Nelson

San Diego 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 famous historical figure, known for his exploration of the Californian coast, has a prominent statue located in Point Loma, San Diego?

A) Hernán Cortés

B) Francis Drake

C) Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo

D) Sebastian Vizcaino

Last Week’s Trivia

San Diego has a rich maritime history and is home to one of the most famous aircraft carriers, now a museum. What is the name of this historic aircraft carrier docked in San Diego Bay that serves as a museum and a tribute to naval history?

Answer: A) USS Midway

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Viasat Inc. launched its Business Choice internet service plans, providing small-to-medium businesses with high-speed and reliable connectivity, especially in hard-to-reach locations. This service offers download speeds up to 100 Mbps coast-to-coast, aiming to empower business owners with digital technology tools. (link)

Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine have developed an acne vaccine that reduces inflammation in a mouse model. This vaccine targets a specific enzyme variant produced by acne-associated bacteria and represents a significant advancement in acne treatment. (link)

🏦 Finance

New legislation in California will boost the minimum wage for fast-food and health care workers. Fast-food workers in chains with 60 or more locations will earn at least $20 an hour from April 2024, and health care workers will earn a minimum of $18, $21, or $23 an hour from June, depending on their employment setting. (link)

🏒 Sports

The San Diego State University Football Program announced that 26 student-athletes had opted to become Aztecs during the early signing period. This was the first recruiting class for new head coach Sean Lewis, featuring 15 players on offense and 11 on defense. The class included players from various states, with a significant number from California. (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

🏈 DIRECTV Holiday Bowl (December 27, 2023): Experience the excitement of college football at the DIRECTV Holiday Bowl at Petco Park, where USC faces off against Louisville. This event has a reputation for delivering thrilling matchups, making it a highlight of the season for sports fans. (link)

🏃 Holiday Bowl 5K Run/Walk (December 27, 2023): Join the fun and festivities with the Holiday Bowl 5K Run/Walk along San Diego’s harborfront. This event is a great way to experience the city's beauty while engaging in a healthy and community-driven activity, concluding with the vibrant Holiday Bowl Parade. (link)

🏈 Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade (December 27, 2023): Be a part of America's largest balloon parade at the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade. This festive event features colorful floats, giant balloons, and world-class marching bands, creating a memorable spectacle along the waterfront. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎉 Hard Rock Hotel NYE 2024 (December 31, 2023): Elevate your New Year's Eve at the iconic Hard Rock Hotel. This event, known for its legacy of unforgettable celebrations, promises a night of glitter, glamour, and Champagne, with San Diego's top DJs setting the stage for a thrilling start to the new year. (link)

🎆 Big Night San Diego New Year’s Eve Gala (December 31, 2023): Step into the excitement of the Big Night San Diego New Year’s Eve Gala at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. This all-inclusive event features bands, DJs, multiple party zones, unlimited drinks, and a buffet. It's a grand celebration that promises an unforgettable night welcoming the new year. (link)

Family

❄️ Winter Wonder Beachside at Belmont Park (December 26 – 31): Belmont Park transforms into a holiday beachside wonderland offering classic rides, family-friendly entertainment, and holiday treats. It's a great place to immerse in the holiday spirit and enjoy seasonal festivities​​. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “San Diego as a giant theme park” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Diego History

San Diego Trolley System Inauguration (1981)

The San Diego Trolley system, inaugurated in 1981, marked a significant milestone in the city's public transportation history. It was introduced as San Diego's first modern light rail transit system, designed to provide an efficient, eco-friendly, and reliable mode of transportation to residents and visitors. The initial service connected downtown San Diego with the border community of San Ysidro.

The Trolley system's introduction brought numerous benefits, including reduced traffic congestion and improved accessibility across key areas of the city. It was well-received for its convenience and ease of use, quickly becoming a popular mode of transport. The system's success led to subsequent expansions, with new lines and stations added to connect more neighborhoods and points of interest.

San Diego's Trolley system set a precedent for urban transportation solutions in the United States. It demonstrated the viability and benefits of light rail in a rapidly growing metropolitan area. The Trolley not only enhanced daily commutes but also contributed positively to the city's efforts in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable urban development.

Famous People in San Diego History

Ray Kroc: 1902-1984

Ray Kroc was an American entrepreneur best known for purchasing, popularizing, and expanding the McDonald's Corporation. Born in Illinois, Kroc's journey eventually led him to San Diego, where he spent his later years and left a lasting legacy through his philanthropic efforts.

Early Life and Ambitions (1902-1920) 

Born on October 5, 1902, in Oak Park, Illinois, Ray Kroc displayed an early interest in business. His childhood was marked by a strong work ethic and a desire to excel in the competitive world of commerce.

Early Career Ventures (1920-1940) 

Before McDonald's, Kroc dabbled in various trades, including selling paper cups and playing as a pianist. His diverse experiences in sales and music provided him with a unique skill set that he later applied to his business ventures.

Introduction to McDonald's (1940-1954) 

Kroc's life changed when he encountered a small but efficient burger restaurant in San Bernardino, California, owned by the McDonald brothers. Impressed by their operation, he saw the potential for nationwide expansion.

Expanding McDonald's (1954-1961) 

In 1954, Kroc opened the first McDonald's franchise in Des Plaines, Illinois, under his partnership with the McDonald brothers. He implemented a franchising model that emphasized consistency and efficiency, rapidly expanding the brand.

Full Ownership and Growth (1961-1970) 

Kroc purchased the exclusive rights to McDonald's from the McDonald brothers in 1961. He aggressively expanded the franchise across the United States, turning McDonald's into a household name.

Global Expansion (1970-1980) 

Under Kroc's leadership, McDonald's went international, opening outlets in countries around the world. He focused on maintaining standardized service and quality across all franchises.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement (1980-1984) 

In his later years, Kroc dedicated himself to philanthropy, particularly in San Diego. He donated to various causes, including healthcare and education, significantly impacting the local community.

Life in San Diego 

Kroc moved to San Diego and became an influential figure in the city. He purchased the San Diego Padres baseball team in 1974, demonstrating his commitment to the city’s sports culture and community.

Legacy in Fast Food Industry (Post-1984) 

Kroc passed away on January 14, 1984, in San Diego. His legacy lives on in the global fast-food industry, with McDonald's continuing to be a dominant force worldwide.

Remembering Ray Kroc 

Today, Ray Kroc is remembered not only for transforming the fast-food industry but also for his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic efforts in San Diego and beyond.

Key Achievements of Ray Kroc:

• Transformed McDonald's into a global fast-food franchise leader.

• Pioneered the modern fast-food business model.

• Expanded McDonald's to an international brand.

• Engaged in significant philanthropic efforts in San Diego.

• Owned and supported the San Diego Padres, contributing to local sports culture.

Ray Kroc's journey from a salesperson to the proprietor of one of the world's most recognizable brands is a testament to his vision, determination, and innovative business strategies. His impact on the fast-food industry and his contributions to the San Diego community have left an indelible mark.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen