Pages past - March 16

On this date ...

1978: Ground was broken at Cannon Air Force Base for a new base exchange and commissary complex, expected to cost about $3 million.

The initial portion of the contract - for the parking lot, curbing, lights, and foundation - was awarded to K. Barnett and Sons of Clovis. A second contract - for the construction of the shopping center - was scheduled to be awarded later in the year.

The new facility was expected to double the size of the existing facility, with a 24,000 square feet base exchange, and 44,000 square feet commissary.

The complex was also designed to house a barber shop, beauty shop, cleaners, watch repair shop, optical shop, pastry shop, flower shop, and food delivery service.

1978: One lane of First Street in downtown Portales was reopened almost a full week after a wind-driven fire that tore through the area, burning several businesses including the Tower Theater.

Portales police said the road closest to the remains of the Tower Theater had been kept closed for fear of the walls collapsing onto passing vehicles.

Pages Past is compiled by Betty Williamson. Contact her at:

[email protected]