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On this date ...

1974: Democratic state Sen. Jerry Apodaca and Republican rancher Joe Skeen captured their party’s nominations for governor during the primary election.

Apodaca and Skeen, both of them experienced legislative leaders, are expected to mount spirited campaigns to succeed Democratic Gov. Bruce King in the November general election.

Skeen scored a convincing win against four other GOP candidates. Apodaca won the nomination after prevailing against six other foes.

In November, Apodaca narrowly defeated Skeen for the governor’s seat.

At least five state representatives lost their House seats during the primary, though incumbents generally performed well.

At least one unsuccessful candidate blamed low voter turnout on the Watergate scandal that has embroiled President Richard Nixon.

— Copes of President Nixon’s Watergate tape transcripts were available at the Tucumcari News office for 50 cents apiece.

— The cheerleaders of House High School were hosting an ice cream social and White Elephant Bingo at the gymnasium.

— The Safeway store in Tucumcari was selling sliced bacon for 88 cents a pound, large Grade A eggs for 49 cents a dozen and vegetable oil for $1.69 per 48-ounce bottle.

— Atlanta Braves star Hank Aaron hit his 16th career grand slam, passing Babe Ruth. It also was the 730th home run of his career after passing Ruth’s record earlier in the season.