The lead stories in the Suffolk News-Herald 56 years ago on this date:

Business, labor leaders called by White House

WASHINTON – The White House called in some 90 leaders of business and organized labor today for off-the-record study of ways to help Europe without forcing prices at home still higher.

At the same time, two Senators who usually disagree on foreign policy matters voiced hope that the special session of Congress set for November 17 will limit its work to emergency assistance and leave the multi-billion dollar long-range Marshall plan to the regular session.

S.A. gives aid to transients

Transients, down on their luck, and passing through Suffolk, get willing assistance from the Salvation Army post here, statistics released by Captain Kenneth Johnson, commanding officer of the local unit.

According to the report given by Captain Johnson, covering the period from August through Oct. 19, the Salvation Army here gave help in the form of lodging, meals, clothing and transportation to 42 different transients.

Thirty-four lodgings were supplied transients, together with 78 meals. Ten were given transportation and six were given garments and shoes.

Three-Day $22,310 Chest Drive Starts

Window displays in the downtown area feature the organization and purposes of the various agencies participating in the Community Chest Fund campaign which got under way here today.

The purpose of the displays is to familiarize the public with the importance of contributing to the Chest fund so these community welfare organizations may function to the fullest extend without lack of sufficient funds.

Local merchants, cooperating with the publicity committee for the Community Fund campaign and Mr. T.J. Sykes, who is in charge of the window displays have allotted window space to the following organizations: Roses 5 and 10, Salvation Army, Woolworth’s, Weekday Religious Education, Ballard and Smith, Suffolk Women’s Club Public Library, Leggett’s Department Store, Girl Scouts, Suffolk gas Company and Boy Scouts.

Christian Church here approves merger plan

At a call session of the Suffolk Christian Church at the close of yesterday’s Sunday morning service a unanimous vote was given the proposed merger of the Congregational and Christian Churches with the Evangelical and Reformed Church.

In speaking on the proposed merger, the pastor, Dr. John G. Truitt, said, &uot;Let the denominations and churches of America avoid the very appearance of being divided and competitive at home if they expect to make progress in evangelizing great areas of pagan population abroad.

East Suffolk to meet bears

East Suffolk High’s Wolverines, on longer in the undefeated ranks, were looking forward today to their clash Friday in Peanut Park with their old rivals, Booker T. Washington.

The Nansemond County eleven dropped their first game of the season Friday afternoon to Hertford, 19-0, in a game played in Hertford.

– Compiled by Luefras Robinson