Pioneer

Penywern Choir's Success.' Our congratulation.- go to the Penywern Jlale Voice Party, of Dowlais, on their deserved suc- cess in the Eisteddfod at Cory Hall. Cardiff, on Monday night, when they easily headed the nine competing niale, voice parties and secured the £ 90 prize, by their brilliant interpretation of Dan Protheroe'fr "'The Crusaders." The choir had to leave before the adjudication; and, in- deed. Dr. McLeod. of Porth, in giving the awards a.t midnight, confined himself to the briefest of decisions, stating that those who cared for a detailed adjudication could obtain one on application. He, however, stated that the Dowlais and Penywern Choir stood out on its own, and declared them winners with 95 marks. The recitative was sung: in beautiful style by Mr. Dan Daniel. Well might the conductor, Mr. Evan Thomas, be proud of his boys.

I Tonyrefail Notes. Co-operators and the Food Committee. The Food Control Committee have now agreed to supplement their num ber by three additional Labour members. This will make four Labour members on the committee-one for each ward or district. There is considerable disappoint- ment and dissatisfaction among Co-operators because they have been left out. It was the Co- operators who effectively initiated the protests and strenuously followed the whole issue up. Also they comprise the majority of the popula- tion, yet now they are left without direct re- presentation. The best reply to this policy of exclusion will be for all Co-operators to do all they can to increase the stores and make it popu- lar, so as to undermine the profiteer. This will ultimately be the greatest force against them. i Misinformed. We thank the correspondent of the Co-opera- tive for correcting us with regard to the newly formed local committee. We were misinformed. Non-Unionist Trouble. During the week a dispute over a non-union-1 ist arose at the Bye-Product Works, Coed Ely. A Correction. Mr. Geo. Boon writes informing us that, con-j trary to our report of March 16th. the check- w?t?hprs' haHot at Coed Ely was not annulled as stated, but adjourned.

Briton Ferry Notes. Peace Sermons at Jerusalem. The Kev. Herbert Morgan, M.A., Bristol, paid-us a return visit on Thursday, March 21st. He came under the auspices of Jerusalem Bap- tist: Church. He preached a powerful sermon in the afternoon, and in the evening gave a force- ful address on Faith or .Fear." Mr. George Jones presided. Another peace meeting was held on Monday, March 25th, when the meet- ing was addressed by the Hev. H. H. Hughes. B.A., B.D. (Bangor) and the Rev. M. Rees, B.A. (Alltwen). Both speakers pointed to reeonsilia- tion as the way out of the modern chaos. The Rev. R. Powell presided.

I. Kenfig Hill Notes I I.L.P. The annual meeting of the local branch took place on Monday at the Workmen's Institute. The appointment of officers for the ensuing year resulted in the whole of them being re-appointed en bloc, as well as the Committee. The first four months of the local Party has produced much fruit, there being at the present time 96 members, out of which 87 are full financial members. There have been many speakers brought into the locality, very often at great expense, but thanks to the energy displayed by the officials and other comrades, the expenses have on all occasions been cleared. The Litera- ture Committee are also to be congratulated in almost getting a monopoly for the sale of Labour papers and general "intelleetual dynamite." These sales amount to 350 copies per week. De- spite the activities of the Party it is patent that there are a number of members that are perfect strangers to class-consciousness, that essential that goes to make the real worker for the I.L.P. progress, men who faced with the ridicule that comes from those a "cut" above "those I.L.P.ers," shrink from upholding such ideals, as equality of opportunity, or a better distribu- tion of wealth. He thinks of old John Jones, horny-handed son of toil, chews, drinks his pint of beer, makes a noise when ho eats, wears a muffler instead of the latest Liberal turnod- down-at-edge collar, what sort of a shape would he cut in the Council HDom, typical of Bumble- dom and horrors! in the Cafe, at dinner time, a fellow workman, eh? tolerated only because John Jones represents the section that he repre- sents?" or is he afraid that John will perhaps innocently enough, tell his mates what a grand "gentleman" his "butty" has become. If there are those in the Local Party who are ashamed of the I.L.P., for heaven's sake get out of it, we have enough to fight in the "element" outside, without this menace in our midst. Trades and Labour Council at Porthcawl. Comrades Mitchell, Truman and .Forester made a "pilgrimage" to Porthcawl on Friday to assist in the formation of a. local Trades Council. There is "material" there, but they are very much afraid of the "outside element." Great pains were taken to point out to them not to fear that "element," hut rather that they should take a measure of their own strength among themselves, grasp political and class-con- sciousness. and thereby build up a bulwark of resistance that could not be penetrated by the parasitic class. It was fully realised by all pre- sent, what an uphill fight the Seaweeds are going to have, and if the resolve of the Porth- cawl Council members, backed up by the mem- bers from Kenfig Hill. count for anything, then the fight will not be in vain. Here is a "cita- del that is indeed worth capturing, and those who know the composition of the resi- dents are fully aware of the obstacles. The next party to invade Porthcawl will be the 1. L. P., nob by any means so respectable as the Trades Council, for we find that a lot of the latter body are opposed to this benighted party. But cheer up Comrades, no pot-bel- lies or hog-fatted men can exist in the I. L. P.. its propaganda produces a leanness of body and jaw, its activities no time for bask- ing in the sunshine of dremland," its objects for ever keeping you on the run till you reach the goal, the Socialist Commonwealth and the true Brotherhood of Man. We, shall one day get on the run." not to run away. But just as a low whining wind increases in intensity and velocity, until it becomes a mighty roar and itshall be heard through the length and breadth of all lands, and its lull shall bring that repose and security, that typifies the true sanctity of peace and concord, not for a few, but for all.

Maesteg Notes. I I.L.P. Reviews the Year. The Maesteg I.L.P. held their- annual meet- ing at the Co-operative Lecture Hall on Satur- day night last. The balance-sheet showed that financially the branch is on the right side. The auditor's report paid a tribute to the capable secretary, whose books- were well kept. The branch unanimously re-elected Comrade T. J. Jones as branch secretary and T. J. Dineen as president, whilst Ben Laugharne was elected as keeper of the purse. Harry Morgans as literat,ure secretary and A. G. Jones as lecture secretary. The branch has commenced a system of collect- ing contributions more efficiently than has hitherto been done, and it is expected to have the effect- of stimulating interest in the work of the branch, and of improving the financial posi- tion. The secretary stated that during the month of March we had enrolled 15 new mem- bers, and three more were enrolled before the meeting ended, making 18 for the month. Com- rade A. I). Edwards, of Oaerau, stated that the principles of the I.L.P. were oeing accepted by more voting people than ever before, and appealed to the branch to carry on a little propaganda in Careau and to hold a few meetings there this summer. He was of the opinion that a good branch could now be formed there, and we ought to grasp the opportunity. It was resolved that the matter be discussed at the next meeting, and that we assist Cacrau in any and every way we can. The meeting was the best and most inspiring that has been held for a few years, for the war has had its bad effects upon the Maesteg branch. All signs point to a change for the better. The branch has kept the Red Flag flying, and is now in a position to cope with any advantages that are likely to come our way, and to make the .best of them. The meeting was most enjoyable and encouraging, and ended with the singing of "Hark the Battle Cry and the Red Flag." with Comrade A. D. Edwards (Caerau) at the piano.

Pontycymmer Notes. I Trades Council and Housing. I The Ganv Valley Trades and Labour Council met on Thursday last at the Ffalddau Institute, when Councillor Aloert Day, who we were pleaded to see improving after his accident, gave a very interesting report of the work done by the District Council Housing Committee. The meeting was in favour of a large housing scheme for the lower part of the valley on the garden Village plan. There the valley is much more level, therefore, the site would get more sun- I shine. and people would be removed away from the smoke and dust of the mines. Fire at the Picture Hall. I A fire broke out at the Picture Hall, Ponty- cxmmer, on Saturday afternoon. There were several hundred children assembled for the after- noon s how. No one was burnt, but one little lad had his leg broken in the stampede.

Rhymney Valley Notes. I War Bonuses Granted, I I The Council had hefore them an application from their officials—'acting through their asso- ciation, for a war bonus of I.)! per week for all over the age of 18 years, and 7/6 for those 18 and under. The application was granted, an amendment seeking to reduce the figures to 10/- and 5s. respectively, being lt. New Rate Precept. At its monthly meeting on Tuesday the Bed- wellty Urban District Council decided to Jay a rate of Is. 7d. in the £ for the half-year ending September 30th next. This is an increase of Id. in the £ on the rate for the past half-year. The Rhymney Valley sewage rate is 3d. in the E, whilst the Sirhowy scheme works out at an annual charge of 4d. in the £

The Electric Theatre .1 There is a detestable practice followed by amusement house managements of taking ad- vantage of the free holiday spirit of the people to stage or screen very inferior and cheap pro- grammes for festive times. That we do not suffer from this in Merthyr to the extent that it is known in other towns I attribute largely to the policy of the Electric Theatre management, a policy which my experience tells me to be that of making a noteworthy house still more note- worthy during holiday sessions. For instance, for next week's opening half we are promised that new superb production For Auld Lang Syne," a delightful picture worthy of bearing the name of the best and grandest of the North- ern traditional songs. "Auld Lang Syne pro- mises something out of the ordinary, and the management assure me that the promise will be more than realised. A holiday week programme stands as much by its comedy as by its big fea- tures, and here the Electric have scored heavily by booking that real scream" Gussie Rival's Jonah," a picture that has more laughs to the square foot than anything recently done by the studios. Gloria's Romance presents an ex- citing episode, and Raemakers Cartoons continue to attract great attention. -From Thursday on the bill will 00 headed by that Famous Players' star artiste, Pauline Frederick, in a superb version of Daudets' Sapho "—the finest translation of the great book thait. has yet been given to the world. The caste also includes Frank Losee, whose work with Miss Frederick in the Eternal City will be vividly recalled by all Electric patrons. "The Grey Ghost" super-mystery serial is a big instal- ment. of great excitement, under the sub-title of "The Poisoned Ring," and there is a fine L-KO comedy amongst the big basket of Electric fill-ups. This week's programmes have numbered amongst the best yet. That sweet visualisation of Love's Old Sweet Song," that topped from Monday to Wednesday, has endeared itself to all cinema goers. But even more attractive is The Crimson Dove," the five-reel super-play of the current programme, that includes Carlyle Blackwell and June Elvedge in one of the most complex, yet compelling stories that the screen has ever given us. The story is wonderfully graphic and well- balanced, the staging is unusually fine even for these days of de luxe staging, while the acting is as realistic and convincing as only finished artistt's like Carlyle Blackwell and Jane Elvidge can make it. The Gaumont comedy, Her Daring Oaring Ways is a screaming burlesque, with some unusual episodes; and the" Grey I Ghost is an exciting episode. PliAYGOEI?.

LITERARY. I UNITARIAN PAMPHLETS on The Bible," I LJ Heaven," and Hell," given post free. 1 —Miss Barmbt, Mount Pleasant, Sidmouth. + 7 + + —————— GREAT ——————— + + I.L.P. DEMONSTRATION. t t PAVILION, MOUNTAIN ASH t + Sunday, April 7th, 1918. X t Speaker: MR. + f J. R. Macdonald, M.P. f + Chairman: JAMES WINSTONE, S.W.M.F. t + ADMISSION BY SILVER COLLECTION + 4 DOORS OPEN AT 1.30 P.M.; COMMENCE AT 2.15. + t I  & A A A Y +++++ ++++++++ + + ++ A v v w -W T- SPECIAL SHOW [ OF NEW GOODS For the Season of the Latest and Newest Materials for DRESSES, BLOUSES & COSTUMES UP-TO-DATE MILLINERY-SMART BLOUSES ——————  — ————————————————————————————— ?. Novelties in Neck Wear, Gloves, Scarves and Hosiery Ladies' Tailor-Made Costumes ¡. a Speciality SECURE YOUR HAU/I AIC SUPPLIES FYROOUM R VV /Lt<? CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY DOWLAIS. No. I Branch-STATION TERRACE, BEDLINOG. No. 2 Branch-HIGH STREET, PENYDARREN. NO- 3 Branch—PANTSCALLOG, DOWLAIS. J No. 4 Branch-HIGH STREET, CAEHARRIS. V J'

Honouring Merthyr' s Bandmaster BAND SURPRISE MR. A. R. V. LAVEROCK BY GIVING HIM A TOKEN OF ESTEEM. The Municipal Band's promenade concert at the Rink last Thursday was marked by one of those little surprises that makes one think that the world is not quite the inhuman, dreadful place that the newspaper columns would seem to imply, with their record of the sordid side of life and death. It was a presentation during the interval of a handsome military walking- stick to the conductor, Mr. A. R. V. Laverock, R.M.S.M. The band had subscribed the fund for the purchase of the stick, and so well had they kept their intention secret that when the presentation was made on behalf of the band by' their oldest player, Mr. H. Davies, Mr. Laverock was as surprised a man as there was in Merthyr that night. Mr. Davies in making the presenta- tion paid a very high tribute to Mr. Laverock's skill as teacher, bandmaster, and conductor; the truth of which is so well evidenced in the rapid progress in tonality, balance and diction of the combination. Mr. Laverock was too surprised to make a speech, but his few homely words were spoken in a, tone tha/t marked the depths to which this unexpected love gift of his children-for so he regards them-had penetrated. "I thank you from my heart for this gift, which I shall look upon as an appreciation of my work with you," he said. Youx kindness has shown to me that my work is appreciated, and that is the finest compliment that you could pay me. I would that I could speak to you in better terms of my thanks, but you have taken me on the sly." The stick was inscribed on its gold mounting: "Presented to A. R. V. Laverock, R.M.L.M., Conductor of the Cyfarthfa and Municipal Band, by the Members, April, 1918." I" PALMA NON SINE PULVERA." The attendance in the hall was ilt,;o another fine tribute to Mr. Laverock's ability, for it con- stituted a record—indeed each week of these po- pular dances has seen a steady improvement in members present—and that attendance was en- tirely due to the merit of the music that the band is providing under the baton of Mr. Laver- ock. There had been many expressions of re- great that these popular social gatherings are to come to an end after Easter week is past, but this is necessitated by the fact that in the course of the next month or so—weather permitting— thend will be taking up its work in the public parks. We can now ooast the finest military band organisation in South Wales—a boast solely due to the loving work of Mr. Laverock—and with a steady advance in the standard of the works down for presentation it is to be trusted that the coming season will see bigger crowds round our bandstands than Merthyr has hitherto known.

THEATRE ROYAL. Broadway Jones is such a delectaole tit- bit of stage comedy, that there is very little need, for me to attempt to gild the lily. Everybody is laughing over Geo. M. Cohen's delightful creation; and the tentinnabulation of Miss Isobe! Croznan's flapper laugh in her work as Clara Spotswood is ringing through the town. Broad- way Jones is just the story of a dam fool youth who makes good, but he is a lovable youth as told by Mr. Chas. Hanbury. It is a difficult part, one of those parts upon the char- acterisation of which the whole success of a piect" depende, and Mr. Hanbury has lifted it to high; heights. He is extremely well supported by .LNIr,. A. Bawtree as "Robeort Wallace, and Mr. J. C. Bucksitonce does the part of Judge Spotswood with dignity and natural art. Miss Constance Luttrell is a perfect leading lady in the part of Joyce, and Miss FAiela Measer, as Mrs. Spots- wood, and Miss Elizabeth Watson as Mrs. Ger- arde, prove themselves excellent artistes. But the great part is Broadway," and although ir is probably impossible to guess just how much Mr. Hanbury depends upon the excellence of hk supports, it is of him that we shall think when we recall the visit of the play to Merthyr. Roy Harniman's adaptation of Elinor Glynn's most famous novel, fresh from its triumphant season at th& Strand Theatre, London, should: prove a great attraction in Merthyr next week. Those who have read the book before seeing the play may think that in the construction of a stage version of the story there would be diffi culties almost insurmountable. But Mr. Horni- man has handled his subject with admirable dis- crimination and with wholly satisfactory resulte. Mr. Leon Vint, whose company it is, has seen to it that the production is an exact replica of the one at the Strand Theatre, down to the- minutest detail. As Sonia, Miss Jane Wood, so well known on both sides of the Atlantic, gives a magnificent representation of an extremely difficult part. She is supported, by Mr. E. F. Hast as the Englishman, Mr. F. Joynsen Powell' as the dissolute King, Mr. 0. Lingiard, Misses Josephine Dale and Babette Tobin. There. wilf I be a C matinee on Monday. Playgoeb.

The only alternative to the Government's "Whitley" Report Proposals yet published. THE ORGANISATION OF THE FUTURE. The WORKERS' COMMITTEE An Outline of Its Principles and Structure. BY J. T. MURPHY. A Pamphlet Explanatory of the Shop Steward's, Movement. Published by the Sheffield Workers Committee, Sink Copies 2d. Post Free 2d. 1/4 per 10. 13/4 per 100. Carriage Paid. 26,000 already sold. Monthly Account. Order at once from E. LISMER, 56 Rushdalo Rd., MEERSBROOK, SHEFFIELD Printed and published by the National Labour Press, Ltd., at the Labour Pioneer Press, Williams Square, Merthyr Tydfil, SATURDAY, IAROH 30th, 1918.