21 Jan 1969
Page 1
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Newspaper
Lubbock Avalanche Journal
Location
Lubbock, Texas, United States of America
Date
Jan 21, 1969
Page
1
Lyndon Baines Johnson said he felt different within four seconds after Richard Nixon’s oath as President. He spoke aboard the presidential jet returning to Texas after Kennedy’s funeral, noting relief that he no longer bears the burden of every decision.
President Nixon vows to dedicate his office to achieving world peace. In a peaceful inaugural, he pledges leadership to unite a divided nation amid a hostile world, amid high security and a large crowd along the route.
Two Texas leaders advance to higher offices with Preston Smith set for governor and Ben Barnes for lieutenant governor. Outgoing Gov. John Connally leaves office after six terms, as inaugural activities begin with a noon swearing in at the Capitol steps and a Democratic victory dinner drawing about 6,000 attendees at 25 dollars per plate. Glen Campbell’s appearance boosts expectations for a record turnout.
Area visitors report Campbell hit with hits like By the Time I Get to Phoenix and Wichita Lineman at HemisFair in San Antonio. Smith, winning governor, plans six inaugural balls and a parade with 100 units, plus a 7:30 a.m. prayer breakfast. Thousands expected, including 50 of Smith's relatives and Sen Ralph Yarborough. Schools release early, and state workers off for the day as the first family attends luncheons, a grand march, and receptions in the city.
Preston Smith of Lubbock will take the oath at noon as governor, with Lt. Gov. Ben Barnes beside him. A 3 p.m. parade and six western balls conclude inaugural events after a victory dinner featuring Glen Campbell. Smith’s family attends, with ceremonies at the Capitol and a city-wide celebration led by West Texans.
Lubbock and South Plains residents share mixed views after Nixon’s inauguration. A random sampling by the Avalanche Journal asked two questions: what kind of president Nixon will be and what is his immediate top task. Responses show a near even split between optimistic and cautious opinions as leaders pledge cooperation in Washington.
A CaS in the A J for Smith administration reports the appointment of a former city official as planning coordination director. The piece notes improved conditions as deaths and injuries decrease across sectors and highlights related municipal updates.
Area residents express mixed views on the new president. A Crosbyton druggist calls him mediocre and says his task is living up to promises and ending the war. A cab driver predicts not much better than past presidents, while a produce businessman says he will be a good president.
A caller signs a brief plea to God asking for wisdom for national and state leaders, courage to act in His name, and faith in the future. The message reflects civic hope from a Lubbock reader.
At 12 15 p m Richard Milhous Nixon took the oath as the new President of the United States before Chief Justice Earl Warren. Spiro T Agnew became vice president after a swift political ascent. Nixon swore to preserve protect and defend the constitution and added so help me God bypassing his Quaker practice with two family Bibles held by Pat Nixon.
Don E. Davis of Wolfforth was named Lubbock County Outstanding Young Farmer for 1968-69 after expanding his diversified farming operation since 1955. He farms nine miles southwest of Wolfforth and will enter the state contest. the state winner will be announced February 8 at Pampa.
Cmdr Lloyd Bucher skipper of the USS Pueblo testifies at a Navy court of inquiry that during his mission he was told American aircraft could not be expected to aid in an attack. He says axes and hammers would be needed to destroy gear and scuttling would take over two hours. He noted a request for an explosive destruct system was denied.
District Attorney Jim Garrison announced he would proceed with the Clay Shaw trial in New Orleans without further delay. Shaw is accused of conspiring to kill President John F. Kennedy nearly two years ago.
The United States was without a leader for 16 minutes as Lyndon B. Johnson’s term ended at noon but Richard M. Nixon did not complete the oath until 12 16 p.m. EST. The moment marked the transition of power in Washington.
Texas House Speaker Gus Mutscher announced plans for a major shakeup of 45 standing committees, with 33 new members among 150 representatives. He said less than five chairmen from 1967 68 would remain and will publish committee assignments by January 30, with an update expected next Monday.
The Weather Map reports fair conditions for Lubbock and vicinity with a daytime high around 70 and a low in the mid thirties. Westerly winds reach roughly 20 mph this afternoon.
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