To open, or not to open: That was the question in October, 1947

The month of October 1948 opened with a squabble among Laurel businessman whether or not the stores would remain open on Wednesday evenings. At a contentious meeting of the Commercial Club held on the evening of Monday, October 4, Druggist Clem Maloney said he didn’t think it was fair to require employees to work 69 hours a week. Jess Harper said staying open was a matter of better serving the townspeople and farmers in this area. A vote was taken. The count was 13 in favor of staying open and 12 opposed. Laurel stores would remain open on Wednesday nights until further notice.