Daily Kennebec journal. [microfilm reel] (Augusta, Me.) 1870-1975, 1917-01-15

this was general. State or National
politics largely Influenced the complex
ion Of the local program. Thus un-
worthy men were often sustained dis
honorably in a very honorable and
worthy position, Ward heelers, often
! took the place of ward leaders, to
the detriment Of municipal RESPONSE
bility. This pernicious method should
everywhere be replaced by that which
is really more representative and far
more effective, viz. The placing in
nomination and the support of men of
honor, the capacity, who not only I'M
derstand the local need, but who will
also seek to justify the confidence re-
posed in them.
"A united effort, as indicated for eX-
ample by Good Government Leagues,
should command the cooperation Of
all. Such organizations should place
before the public the goal desired, Civ
ic improvement, Economy of Admins
tration, Better Schools, Streets, Lights,
| Building Laws, Play grounds etc.,
Moral Reform, Better Supervision Of
Pool-rooms. Fewer Licenses, No Ii
censes, Enforcement Of Law, Curfew,
tSabbath Observance, etc. Educate the
people by advertisement etc, as to the
program desired, or the need of which
they should be made conscious. Call
attention to men who may be expected
to represent and support such inter-
ests, and cooperate enthusiastically in
| their election. encouraging them, as
we'll after they have been elected. Such
unity of effort could not long fail in
securing the results desired.
This unity Of purpose and effort,
will bring corresponding results in the
smaller town in proportion to the need
and opportunity Here however, 1t
often happens that by themselves, for
| lack Of resources the divided groups
are unable to sustain any definite
social program. Several congregations
may agree with the Grange, or other
organization in securing a lecture SER
les, may start and support movement
for local Y. M, c. A.. provide library
facilities, a boys club room, indicate
broader charitable enterprises. and
emphasize common christian funda-
mentals.
Recognizing the difficulty in awak-
ening public interest or support for
the needs of social and religious bet
terment we would recommend.
I'D. That in the larger cities and
towns. christian men and women or
ganize themselves into Federations for
the purpose Of assisting municipal i'm
provement, along civic and moral lines.
That the selection of some definite
goal as the objective Of their campaign
will focus attention and win support.
| (2). That in smaller communities,
the same general methods Of co-ordi-
mated effort be sustained, as the need
and opportunity may warrant, and fur
Their, in view Of the lack Of resources,
and limitations usual in such commu-
mites, we would suggest, that the re-
spective christian groups or churches
combine with other friendly organiza-
lions In the interest Of definite pro-
gram for social and philanthropic pur-
poses, thus making possible as a whole,
for the whole, what any unit would
necessarily fail in accomplishing.
"(3.) That for the smaller villages
and rural districts where overlapping
OF effort incidental to multiplied or
CARNATIONS are In evidence, and where
the service is either lacking or inef-
fective. We would urge that an honest
recognition. and an impartial DISPOSE
ton OF such be made, dependent upon
I the cooperation Of all"