Pages past - July 4

On this date ...

1977: Tucker's Fireworks claimed it had the "biggest selection in New Mexico and West Texas at the lowest prices."

Tucker's offered three locations - 21st and Thomas in Clovis, 1/2-mile east of Cannon Air Force Base on U.S. 60-84 and one mile east of Farwell - and sold black cats, M-80s, skyrockets, sparklers and floral shells.

"Don't be misled by 1/2 price signs," a newspaper advertisement warned. "We have the best for less!"

1972: Lawrence Byous was in his first week as Clovis' superintendent of schools.

"Trying to get children to develop to their full capacity is, of course, the primary function of schools," he said.

"In our society, schools are to train youngsters to become members of society and fit into the social order. ...

"I think all discipline which can be invoked by youngsters themselves is fine, but I believe there is a point beyond which adults have to guide them. Self-discipline is ideal, but we realize that developing young people sometimes need the mature guidance of adults."

Byous was Clovis' 10th superintendent of schools, succeeding Vernon Mills. He held the job from 1972 to 1980.

Pages Past is compiled by Editor David Stevens. Contact him at:

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