Community Honors the "Asparagus King": Compass Point Mentorship Celebrates Thomas Foon Chew Day in Historic Alviso
ALVISO, CA — February 16, 2026 — Against the historic backdrop of Alviso, Compass Point Mentorship hosted over 60 community members today for a vibrant celebration honoring the enduring legacy of Thomas Foon Chew. The event recognized Chew’s transformative impact on California’s agricultural industry and his deep roots within the Chinese American community.
The celebration serves as a precursor to the official city holiday on February 24, a date formally proclaimed by the City of San Jose as Thomas Foon Chew Day.
Attendees gathered at Alviso Venue
A Living Legacy: Personal Reflections
The afternoon was anchored by a keynote address from Gloria Hom, granddaughter of Thomas Foon Chew. Hom shared stories of her grandfather’s resilience and entrepreneurial genius—he was once the wealthiest Chinese American in the country—offering a rare, intergenerational look at the man behind the "Bayside Cannery" empire.
The event drew significant support from regional leaders, including Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee and Valley Water Director Richard Santos. Both representatives spoke with attendees about the importance of honoring Alviso’s cultural landmarks and the pioneers who built the region’s foundations.
Joining them was community advocate Grant Han, a driving force behind the city’s official proclamation. Han spoke to the necessity of civic recognition, noting that preserving the stories of leaders like Chew is essential to understanding the full tapestry of San Jose’s history.
Gloria Hom delivering her remarks
Grant Han speaking to attendees
Cultural Artistry and Sustainable Traditions
Coinciding with the Chinese New Year Spring Festival (春节) celebration, the event transformed into a cultural showcase. Master artists performed live demonstrations of classical Chinese painting and calligraphy, teaching attendees the ancient symbolism woven into New Year traditions.
In a nod to the future, the celebration integrated modern values of sustainability. Guests participated in a jewelry-making workshop, crafting Lunar New Year–themed gifts from sustainable materials. This eco-conscious approach extended to the catering; organizers utilized reusable dishware to minimize the event's environmental footprint, reflecting the core mission of Compass Point Mentorship.
A Feast of Connection
No celebration is complete without tradition on a plate. Attendees gathered over a curated menu of traditional Chinese cuisine, featuring handcrafted dumplings, savory porridge, and festive noodles, reinforcing the sense of community that Thomas Foon Chew championed throughout his life.
About Compass Point Mentorship
Compass Point Mentorship is dedicated to empowering the next generation through programs rooted in cultural heritage, education, and environmental stewardship. By connecting local history with modern leadership, the organization fosters a stronger, more informed community.
