This week in City of Tucson history.
John Paul “Pete” McCaffrey died March 4, 2012
John Paul “Pete” McCaffrey died on March 4, 2012, in Tucson, Arizona. Known for his basketball skills, he played for the United States men’s national team. In 1963, he competed in the FIBA World Championship, where the team finished fourth. In 1964, he played in the Summer Olympics in Tokyo, winning a gold medal with the U.S. team. After his basketball career, Pete moved to Tucson in the early 1970s. He coached youth basketball, mentored young athletes, and became a respected community member. Pete also invested in local businesses and supported charities, making a lasting impact in Tucson. His death marked the end of a life dedicated to sports and community service.
Born March 5, 1948: Leslie Marmon Silko, American writer
Leslie Marmon Silko was born on March 5, 1948, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She is known for her work as a writer and is of Laguna Pueblo descent. Silko is a key figure in the First Wave of the Native American Renaissance. Her first novel, *Ceremony*, published in 1977, established her as a significant voice in Native American literature. Silko moved to Tucson, Arizona, where she taught creative writing at the University of Arizona and became involved in the local literary community. Her works, including *Storyteller* and *Almanac of the Dead*, explore themes of identity, culture, and history. Silko’s experiences in Tucson have influenced her storytelling and enriched her perspective. She continues to be a vital figure in Native American literature, inspiring many through her writing and teaching.
