Tucson Standard

This week in City of Tucson history.

Eduardo Antonio Leon Born on August 11, 1946 in Tucson

Eduardo Antonio Leon was born on August 11, 1946, in Tucson, Arizona. He is an American former Major League Baseball infielder of Mexican American descent. Leon played as a shortstop and second baseman for eight seasons. He started his MLB career with the Cleveland Indians from 1968 to 1972. He then played for the Chicago White Sox in 1973 and 1974. In December 1974, Leon was traded to the New York Yankees for Cecil Upshaw and played until his release on May 5, 1975. After retiring, he returned to Tucson and stayed active in the local baseball community, mentoring young players and participating in local sports programs. His connection to Tucson and his achievements in baseball continue to be remembered and celebrated.

Bryce Cotton born August 11, 1992 in Tucson

Bryce Jiron Cotton was born on August 11, 1992, in Tucson, Arizona. He is known for his career as a professional basketball player for the Perth Wildcats in the National Basketball League (NBL). Cotton excelled in high school at Palo Verde High School and continued his success at Providence College, where he led his team to a Big East Championship. He played briefly in the NBA before finding significant success with the Perth Wildcats, where he has led the team to multiple championships and earned the league's MVP award. Cotton maintains a strong connection to Tucson, often returning to his hometown and engaging with the local community. His achievements in basketball bring pride to Tucson and inspire young athletes.

Born August 11, 1947: Tom Miller, American author of travel literature

Tom Miller, born on August 11, 1947, in Washington, D.C., was an American author, notably recognized for his contributions to travel literature. Throughout his career, he authored ten books, among them The Panama Hat Trail, On the Border, Trading with the Enemy, and Jack Ruby's Kitchen Sink, later republished as Revenge of the Saguaro. His written works extended beyond books, with articles featured in prestigious publications such as the New York Times, Washington Post, The New Yorker, and Rolling Stone, showcasing his versatility as a writer. Despite his origins, Miller developed a deep connection to Tucson, Arizona, where he spent the final chapter of his life until his passing on December 19, 2022. His literary endeavors not only captured the essence of diverse cultures and landscapes but also left an enduring impact on the genre of travel literature.

Arte Moreno born August 14, 1946 in Tucson

Arturo "Arte" Moreno was born on August 14, 1946. He is an American businessman known for becoming the first Mexican-American to own a major sports team in the United States. On May 15, 2003, he purchased the Anaheim Angels baseball team from the Walt Disney Company. Moreno grew up in Tucson, Arizona, and his connection to the city remains significant. His achievement in owning a major sports team marked a milestone in the history of American sports ownership. Moreno's success story is an important part of Tucson's heritage, reflecting the impact of its residents on the broader national landscape.

Chad Beyer born August 15, 1986

Chad Beyer was born on August 15, 1986, in Kansas City, Missouri. He is known for his career as a professional road racing cyclist from 2009 to 2017. Beyer rode for teams like BMC Racing Team, Competitive Cyclist Racing Team, Champion System, 5-hour Energy, Lupus Racing Team, and Hangar 15 Bicycles. His most notable achievement was winning the Points Classification during the 2010 Tour de Romandie. After retiring, Beyer moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he currently resides. He remains active in the local cycling community, participating in events and supporting aspiring cyclists. Beyer's connection to Tucson enriches the city's cycling culture and reflects his ongoing commitment to the sport.