The Waterbury Democrat., 1931-06-10

National Committeeman. that fact. Tn his daily comment to the press, facetiously observing the Valley Forge speech of the presi- dent in which MT Hoover referred to the tough winter the Patriots en- dured in 1776, Mir Rogers remark ed; Those hardships were nothing compared with the tough winter we endured in '31, and will continue to endure until the democrats get in power.'
 National Field.
 We are reminded by the press of our country that the open season is at hand for the discussion of presidential candidates and issues for the 1892 campaign. Naturally, we democrats being human, differ as to issues and candidates. The discussion that Is going on in my judgment is a healthy sign of real party interest. It appears to be generally conceded by astute ob- servers that Connecticut is to be classed among the doubtful states, as as much is destined to play a major part in the national election.
 Having been honored by our party as its representative on the national committee, I conceive it to be my duty to avoid committing myself to any particular candidacy, but to seek diligently to ascertain the true sentiments of my fellow democrats throughout the state. so that when called upon in the national councils of our party, may correctly interpret the wishes of my constituency.
 Women's Part.
 To review in retrospect the remarkable achievements of women in political lift and their accom- plishments and influence in mould ing public opinion for the better ment of moral and economic im- provements in the nations structure. is but to refute for all times the arguments of those misguided in dividuals who, twenty years ago opposed equal franchise. Few ir- telligent people now would care to express the opinion that women should not share the responsibilities of public life by actively participat- ing in politics.
 Twenty years ago when I had the opportunity as state senator to ad- vocate the right of sufferage for women the general opinion held by men was that women's place was in the home and that it would be a great mistake to enfranchise them. Dire pictures were painted of what would happen to American homes when women entered poll tics.
 To these fears I never subscribed, and I count as chief among my small contribution to the public veal, the part was privileged to play in bringing about recognition of the rights of women as electors. As result of the entrance into the political life of our nation the whole course of legislation in many instances has changed.
 Humane Legislation.
 Fine welfare laws, shorter hours for women workers in industry, education advancement and the strenthening of the moral code, are directly attributable to woman's par ticipation in political and civic life.
 It was about year ago I Wit messed the formation of this or ganization and I am proud and amazed at its growth.
 If were to express my judgment as to the accomplishments of the federation in years time. would first of all say that each of you has the satisfaction of knowing that the work you undertook has been successfully accomplished: secondly, the value of the political and personal friendships made pos sible by the close contacts afforded through this organization; thirdly. the influence your group exerted on legislation in Connecticut, for 1t Is but your due to say that your advo- cacy had much to do with the en- actment of the humane legislation of the late general assembly out standing among which was the in- creased appropriations for our State Tuberculosis Sanatoria..
 Fanny Dixon Welch.
 If you will permit the personal reference, nothing that happened throughout the session was more worthy of our distinguished gover- nor, than the selection of one of your own members, Fanny Dixon