A Small Stand, Big Memories: The End of an Era at Diridon Station

Diridon Station in San Jose is about to lose a beloved spot. The McCarthy’s Newsstand, a tiny stand in the corner of the historic train station, is closing its doors. Anne Zingale, who took over the business in 2022, got the news last month. The stand has been on a short-term lease for years. It will be open until Tuesday, serving coffee, snacks, and train-themed souvenirs. The newsstand has been a part of the station for decades. It started with the McCarthy family in 1971. They sold newspapers, books, and popcorn. Over time, the business changed. Now, it sells sodas, candy, and collectible pins. Zingale also helps travelers with directions and train schedules. The station has seen many changes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer people used the station. But business was slowly coming back. The newsstand was once a bustling spot, but now it’s quieter. Zingale says she may continue selling the collectible pins online. Diridon Station is set to become a major transportation hub. Plans include adding BART and high-speed rail. Zingale has seen the renderings and attended meetings. She hopes the station will grow, but she feels left out of the plans. A Caltrain spokesperson said they need to review the space before deciding what’s next. For many, the newsstand is more than just a shop. It’s a place of memories. Gabriel Gadzikowski, a Sunnyvale resident, remembers seeing people come and go. The comfy stools outside the stand are gone, but the memories remain. The newsstand may close, but its impact on the station and its visitors will last.

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