Darrell Cortez retired more than a decade ago from the San Jose Police Department, so he isn’t fighting crime in the streets anymore. But he is working on preventing crime before it starts — by investing in children’s education. Since 2007, Cortez and his wife, Alicia, have operated the Shop with a Cop Foundation, which...
In the Spotlight
Welcome to In the Spotlight.
This monthly feature spotlights the people who make San José an incredible place to call home. From unsung heroes to former city leaders and politicians who’ve disappeared from the public eye, we catch up with San Joseans who are doing amazing things — and we share the awe inspiring stories behind their struggles and successes.
We are telling the unique, ever-changing, diverse story of San José. One person at a time.
Who should we feature next? To nominate someone for our next In the Spotlight profile, email ramona@sanjosespotlight.com.
Jim Salata is helping build San Jose’s future while saving its past
While Silicon Valley is obsessed with everything shiny and new, Jim Salata has an unapologetic love affair with the old and nostalgic. “I’m a sick person,” said Salata, owner of Garden City Construction in downtown San Jose. “I always look at (these objects) and I have an idea… So I don’t throw it away.” His studio at...
Jolene Smith’s passion for children shines at First 5 Santa Clara County
When she was young, Jolene Smith dreamt of being a teacher. Growing up in East San Jose in the 1950s she would often play school with the neighborhood kids and take the position at the front of any makeshift classroom. Today, Smith plays a critical role in helping children succeed as the chief executive officer...
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