Cupertino Reacts to Steve Jobs Resignation

Patch sent a reporter to The Oaks Shopping Center to get the pulse of Cupertino—home to Apple, Inc.—on news of the of Steve Jobs from the company he founded.

In spite of how fast news travels—on iPhones and such—some were unaware of the CEO’s announcement.

“We were actually in the movie, so we didn’t know that this happened,” said Kanoj Sarcar. He works for a technology firm and had just exited the theatre with his family. “I am surprised.”

Those familiar with Jobs’ health condition were more impressed by his vivacity and the fact that he had not resigned earlier. 

“I guess I am surprised that it hadn’t happened sooner,” said Kris Thomas, 51, a receptionist at a dental office in Cupertino. “I think it's time he kick back and enjoy life.”

Jobs health struggles date back almost ten years. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2003, and reportedly received a liver transplant a couple of years ago. Jobs’ health was a major concern for some who were interviewed.  

“I hope he gets better…It’s a sad day,“ said Ali Mahdavi, 51, an accountant and satisfied Apple user. Mahdavi referred to Jobs as a “visionary” and believes that his departure as CEO will have an effect on both the company and Cupertino.

“Apple will probably get smaller and Cupertino will suffer,” he said.

The effect that Jobs’ decision will have on Apple’s future is unknown. However, a soon-to-be college student believes the answer lies in history, and as a result will not be pretty. 

“He has had to come back to Apple to get it back into action,” said Nathan Perera, 18, who will be entering his first year at De Anza College next year. Jobs was pushed out of Apple in the late 80s, returning about a decade later to bring the company back to prosperity.

Jobs is credited with having truly revived the company.

“I don’t think Steve Jobs is going to come back after this,” Perera said. 

Others were more optimistic about the long-term wellbeing of Apple. 

“I think it will have an impact on the stocks, but Apple is a strong company and will come back” said Helen Hendricks, 61, budget analyst for NASA Ames Research Center, who expressed more concern for Jobs’ health condition.

“I am sorry to see him go and I hope his health is OK.” 

More on Steve Jobs and Apple can be found here:

Steve Jobs Visits Cupertino City Council

Apple Has More Cash Reserves Than the Government

Hewlett and Packard Were My Idols, Say Steve Jobs

Twitter Reaction to News of Steve Jobs’ Resignation