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Show The "Country Press" In Action "The Utah Press association, whose members are engaged engag-ed in the business of molding lmblic opinion as well as reflecting it arc clearly expressing popular sentiment when they demand legislation which, shall guarantee a closer check on public funds and shall prescribe severer penalties for misappropriation mis-appropriation of them. Small wonder, in view of recent sensational events, that the people of the state should be roused to a pitch of righteous indignation over inexcusable laxity in methods, gross dishonesty in officials and generally general-ly inadequate punishments. The editors of the papers coiistitating the state press association merely make this popular anger articulate; and avIicii they announce their indention in-dention of using their columns in securing the legislative changes requested, it is a dumb, stubborn and defiant set of lawmakers that will dare to deny their demand. "Nobody is big enough to be able to afford to ignore what is called the 'country press,' though some 'smart' people are so ignorant as to try to treat it contemptuously. The country newspaper with the courage of its convictions and the ability to give them utterance, wields a power that is more often felt than seen. In a very definite sense it is the keeper of the conscience of its constituents. If it lives up to the enjoyment of its prerogati ves it is the recognized .champion of that which is wholesome and sound and beneficial; bene-ficial; it is the outspoken and vigilant foe of stagnation and evil. Many a rural community has been made widely and favorably known by the quality of its local newspaper. j'Many a leader of extended fame and high repute has graduated gradu-ated to his greater honors from the columns of the 'country press.' " The Deseret News. Jan. 14th. |