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Thursday, September 19, 2024

This week in City of Tucson history: Noteworthy events that shaped our past (Aug. 18-24)

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J. J. Hardy former professional baseball shortstop | ESPN

J. J. Hardy former professional baseball shortstop | ESPN

This week in City of Tucson history.

Lafayette "Fat" Lever Born on August 18, 1960

Lafayette "Fat" Lever was born on August 18, 1960, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and grew up in Tucson, Arizona. He attended Pueblo High School in Tucson, where he excelled in basketball. Lever played college basketball at Arizona State University and was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1982. He became known for his all-around skills while playing for the Denver Nuggets, earning two NBA All-Star selections. Lever also played for the Dallas Mavericks before retiring in 1994. After his playing career, he served as the director of player development for the Sacramento Kings and worked as an analyst for Kings radio broadcasts. Lever maintained strong ties to Tucson, frequently visiting and supporting local basketball programs. His achievements in the NBA and his dedication to mentoring young players have left a lasting impact.

James Jerry Hardy Born on August 19, 1982 in Tucson

James Jerry Hardy was born on August 19, 1982, in Tucson, Arizona. He excelled in baseball at Sabino High School, leading to his draft by the Milwaukee Brewers in 2001. He debuted in MLB with the Brewers in 2005 and became known for his reliable shortstop play. In 2010, he joined the Minnesota Twins and then the Baltimore Orioles in 2011. With the Orioles, he won three Gold Glove Awards and a Silver Slugger Award, and was selected for the All-Star Game twice. Hardy retired in 2017 but remains connected to baseball through coaching and mentoring. He frequently visits Tucson, supporting local sports programs.

August 20, 1933: Birth of Sue Alexander in Tucson

Sue Alexander was born on August 20, 1933, in Tucson, Arizona. Known for her contributions to children's literature, she authored 26 books and numerous stories for newspapers and magazines. She reviewed children's books for the Los Angeles Times, helping guide parents and educators. Sue was a charter member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and served on its advisory board. She mentored aspiring writers, and the Society established two awards in her name to honor her efforts. Throughout her life, Sue maintained a strong connection to Tucson, visiting often to speak at schools and libraries. She died on July 3, 2008, leaving a lasting impact on children's literature and the literary community.

August 22, 1920: Birth of Ray Douglas Bradbury

Ray Douglas Bradbury, born on August 22, 1920, was an American author and screenwriter known for his diverse literary works spanning fantasy, science fiction, horror, mystery, and realistic fiction. Raised in Tucson, Arizona, Bradbury's upbringing in the desert landscape deeply influenced his imaginative storytelling. His notable achievements include iconic novels such as "Fahrenheit 451" and "The Martian Chronicles," which continue to captivate readers worldwide. Despite his versatile literary career, Bradbury remained connected to Tucson throughout his life, drawing inspiration from its unique surroundings. His contributions to literature and film have left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations of writers and readers with his imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking themes. Bradbury passed away on June 5, 2012, but his impact on the literary world endures, continuing to inspire creativity and imagination.

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