The Rhondda Leader

-? h Formal Opening of the Labour atld Progressive Clubj PKNYGRAIG. Old Cottages give place to Imposing Architectural Structure. Labour United, Labour Triumphant. Probably one of the most active clubs in the Valleys is the Labour and Pro- gressive Club, Penygraig, which has just lidded to the district one or the most im- posing architectural structures within a large radius. Formerly housed in two old cottages, alterations have been carried on during the course of the last seven or eight years, until now a magnificent build- ing. admirably designed by Mr. R. S. Griffiths, M.S.A., Tomypandy. and buile by --r. Christopher James, of Penygraig, with large and handsome rooms, provide full accommodation for its members. The building is of local stone, with Forest of Dean dressings, ana coprises in basement gymnasium .skittle alley and cellar first lfoor—library, office. commit- tee room, billiard room, bar. and writing room: second floor-reci-eitioit room, re- ception room. ambulance room, and hall with splendid acoustic properties and seating accommodation for 500 people. An admired feature of the building was the sculptural work designed and carried out by Mr. Phil Leek. Trealaw. The opening ceremony took place on Thursd ay last. the 21st inst., and the scene was a striking and interesting one. On the steps leading to the main entrance were Messrs. Noah Morgan. C.C., who performed the opening ceremony Chris. James (builder). David Bowen (chairman). John Charles (vice-chairman). Frank Thomas and Walter King (trustees), Edwin Hodge (treasurer). John Rees (secretary), and members of the Com- mittee. Drawing up and looking smart in full uniform was the ambulance division con- nected with the club, under command of First Ambulance Officer and Instructor Dan Davies, Sergeant Uriah Thomas, and Corporal Hopkins. Before the club the Ynvshir Drum and Fife Band, under the conductorship of Mr. J. Lloyd (Penrhiw- fer). played pleasing selections, having previously paraded the streets of Peny- graig and district. Later the Gilfach Brass Band. conducted by Mr. Paterson, played selections. A large crowd, including women and children, who evidently had not forgotten the beneficent work of the club during the strike, witnessed the ceremony, and much enthusiasm was displayed. THEIR FOREFATHERS" FIGHT. Mr. Dd. Bowen, in introducing County Councillor Noah Morgan to perform tho opening ceremony, said this was a red- letter day in the history of the forces of Labour in Penygraig. As members of this institute they had striven for the last seven or eight years to get this massive building erected and opened. He believed the public would appreciate the efforts of the committee, although some were not in favour of their methods. Their objects, when achieved, would carry democracy to a triumph. The figlit of their forefathers had set the spirit into their children, and the committee of this institute were endeavouring to pave the way and make things easier for those following them (hear, hear). If the com- munity generally looked into and under- stood the objects of the institute, they would not have to fight such a .fight as they had. One of the foremost objects of the club was the amelioration of the con- dition of the working classes (applause). They had one of the best ambulance classes in the Valleys. They were not going to stop at that. Everything would be done to bring forth the best in men and create good and useful citizens. The motto of the club was, and always would be, Labour united, Labour triumphant (loud applause). The building was a credit to Mr. Chris. James, who was one of themselves, and to the architect, Mr. H. S. Griffiths. It was one of the finest buildings outside Cardiff (cheers). PENYGRAIG AND ROME. Amidst enthusiasm Mr. James then handed to Mr. Noah Morgan a gold key in a case. Mr. Morgan, who received an ovation, said his was a very enviable position, and lie received, he thought, one of the highest honours that could be bestowed on a work- ing man—that of opening a building of this kind. The institution stood un- adulterated for Labour and Labour only, and to better the workers, their wives and families (applause). This institution. with all its failures and shortcomings in many respects—nothing was perfect—and with all its goodnesses, stood for the up- lifting of their class (cheers). He was there also to thank the architect and builder for the erection of the building, a building which would add architectural beauty to an unlovely district. Possibly in the future they would in Penygraig have beautiful architecture such as pre- vailed in Rome of" old. The interior of tile building was just as beautiful there was ample accommodation, and no mem- ber could now complain that efforts were not being made inside for ttill accommo- dation for him. He wanted to impress upon members and the people of the locality generally that they wanted to make this institute an active force to create intelligent and thinking men. There were plenty of books and literature of almost every description there were lectures and concerts, and there were also games to suit a variety of tastes. The worker delving in tlie darkness and miserable surroundings, drawing out God.s wealth for someone else to enjoy, had the first right to games and recreation (loud applause). They existed to raise and emancipate the worker, and in this building man met man in social inter- course, and in future years perhaps in a foreign land would have memories of friendships made there. He. hoped that I the club in the future would be even more useful than in the past: but if they had done nothing else, ho was proud to think that its existence enabled them in the. long months of the strike to feed daily 700 to 800 children-innocent little sufferers (cheers). Proclaiming its motto, he nuw declared the building formally opened (loud cheers). After the conclusion of the opening ceremony, the large lecture and concert I hall was filled to overflowing with mem- bers and friends, who sat down to the enjoyment of musical items and speeches. REFERENCE TO THE CLUB'S PIONEERS. Mr. Bowen again presided, and con- gratulated the members upon arriving at the position they were in. They had striven hard for I t, and there was a great deal to be done before they arrived at the iftill consummation of their desires. There was a debt to pay, and it rested entirely with the members, and he looked forward to' the near future when all would be as it should be. He wished all the pioneers were there to see the out- come of their work. One of these was Mr. Meyrick Lewis, who had departed, and who had set his heart on this work. They had, however, one of the promoters of the cause with them in the person of Mr. Noah Morgan (applause). Mr. Frank Thomas and Mr. Walter King as trustees had also done their utmost for the club. He hoped the members would carry on the work and let their watchword be Excelsior. Every credit should be given to Mr. Chris. James, the builder, ana to the architect for a building which, in his eyes, was second to none in the districts around (applause). The building, however, was not all they lia4i to com- pletely furnish it and they had a debt to pay, and he was certain every member would put his shoulder to the wheel and push hard. If every member set out to, tell others the objects of the club they would be the better for it. If Labour asserted itself it would not be in the posi- tion it was in that day. United and active there was no power on earth that could defeat them (loud applause). The Ynvshir Drum and Fife Band, a rapidly improving young musical combina- tion. opened the programme, with the march, "The United Service." and the Gilfach Brass Band also rendered a selcc- ion. tIon. INCOMPARABLE COURAGE. I Mr. Noah Morgan, in a stirring address, referred to the historical position of the club, and afterwards dealt at length with the position of Labour in connection with public bodies, referring to the huge spending powers of the Glamorgan County Council. They paid the money, and it behoved them to elect direct represen- tatives who only would see that it was properly spent. Mr. Morgan also referred to the police and their attitude towards the worker. He looked back with pride at the incomparable courage shown by the men when that great magnate, Mr. 1). A. Thomas, and his friends fought them. He could imagine those little chil- dren coming into this club daily to be fed, and he could conceive no higher object than this, and this alone, he thought, should satisfy the public that the insti- tution should be appreciated (applause). There was an enormous amount of pre- judice against club life, but he was glad to think that this was fast dwindling away. There were good, bad and in- different clubs, but he thought it would be a crime and a shame to attack such a club as the Labour and Progressive (cheers). There were young men there, and who could say it was not possible, with the facilities the club provided for broadening the mind and quickening the intellect, for one of them to attain to the position of Prime Minister or some other position of eminence? Shown the way, and helped by social intercourse and other things, a man might achieve almost anything. They had the club, and he appealed to them to support it and ulti- mately place it on a sound financial basis (loud cheers). Mr. Frank Thomas. one of the trustees, in a few concise "remarks dealt with the workings of the club, and took the oppor- tunity of thanking the members for their support. If each member had not taken it unto himself to do what he did months ago, they would not to-day be in the posi- tion they were. He had made a request to them, and they had met it as men and clubites should do. and that saved the situation (applause). They had passed a crisis. They still had big responsibilities, and he apnealed to them for their sup- port (applause). Mr. Walter King. also a trustee and keen worker, spoke of the progress of the ciub. They had now a capacious building in which they could welcome members. They had previously had applications for debating rooms. &(,. Now they could meet every desire, and there would be no excuse that was lack (f accommo- dation. That night they rose into a new life. They could educate themselves, and he felt confident they would keep them- selves as true citizens and as true club- ites. in rousing language Mr. King ap- pealed for support for the Labour cause. Mr. John Rees. the secretary of the club, who has spared himself neither in time nor energy to make it a success, thanked everyone for the assistance ren- dered. They had a building which "ave added beauty architecturally to Peny- graig hut they hoped to do things within the club which would add to the boautv of the lives of the members and their families (applanse1. This event had added to the dignity, standing and honour of eliib, and Conncd!or Noah Morgan had materially helped to add to the stand- 'ng of the place. It was in their own jllg ()f tlil pl?ice. It III til(?ir Oli'll hoped they would attend to them (ap- plause). -•ir. Chris. James, builder, returned thanks for the kind remarks made con- cerning himself and the-building. Several references were made to the work of the steward. Mr. Tom Griffiths, and the stewardess. Mrs. Griffiths, who had worked indefatigaoly to prepare the place for this occasion. Mr. Griffiths has been steward for five years, and was pre- viously in turn trustee and treasurer. -Mie programme left nothing to be j desired. Mr. C. Robinson rendered. several items, and was vociferously ap- j plauded. Master "Willie Ball (Tonypandy).. a vouthful instrumentalist. cleverly executed a few violin solos. Mr. Richard Jones, the baritone, always pleases ins audiences, and tilis occasion was no ex- I ception. Mr. Jones and Mr. Harry Evans (Portli) contributed several excellent duets, and the comic songs and stump speech of Mr. David Lloyd .Tonypandy) set the audience in rare good humour. Mr. Henry Higgs. who was also mainly responsible in arranging the musical pro- gramme. delighted the audience with clever mimicry. Mr. Jenkin Lloyd (Tony- pandy) gave every satisfaction as the accompanist. Mr. Gordon Rees (Rhondda Tramways) proposed a vote of tlianks, which included all cone(,i-ne( l -tn(l N ft- all concerned, and Mr. Lewis Rees (Watts- town) seconding, this was carried amidst applause, Mr. Bowen responding. The singing of the National Anthems terminated the happy proceedings. A photograph of this beautiful edifice will appear in our issue next week.

The Omnibus. Something for Everybody. Paupers are getting less, thanks to the Old Age Pensions. The fault-finders of the present Government will please put the following in his pipe and smoke — For every 1(0 aged persons over 70 years of age. and who were in receipt of outdoor relief in 190(3. there are now only 5. And smoke this for a second whiff:—■ In some 90 Unions there were actually n,) persons over 70 in receipt of outdoor relief on January 4th. 1913. Good old Glamorgan County stands tip- top in the table giving the proportion of okl-age pensioners to the population. These numbers range from 9.4 per 1.000 in Hampstead to 40.8 per 1,000 in Cardi- ganshire. In urban areas the numbers are for the most part below 20. In Gla- morgan County the proportion is 9.9. Are we not right to say Good old Glamorgan ? The Chesterfield miners seem to know the value of the Social Reform policy of the present Government. They doubtless remembered the Tory history in its deal- ing with the Old Age Pensions, and that in the second reading only 42 Tories voted for it; and when the final stage—the third reading-came, only 12 Tones voted ifor it. When a Parliamentary election is forced upon the Rhondda by the Conser- vatives, such facts will be useful. Pro- gressives, keep in mind these simple figures for the special consumption of the propaganda of the Rhondda Tories. The Socialist at Chesterfield made a wretched show. The miners of Derbyshire can see through the Socialist candidate who jockeys Labour for its own ends. Mr. Scurr, their candidate, found it diffi- cult to attract public attention. On the Monday before the poll. for a meeting in the Market Place, when Mr. Alderman Hartley, of Bradford, and other leading lights were among tlie Socialists on the platform, there were only five listeners present, and after a quarter of an hour's vigorous oratory had failed to produce a sixth, the meeting was frankly given up. The Rhondda Choir which visited the Pittsburg Eisteddfod actually sang in their shirt-sleeves. Even the adjudicators were ditto. The heat was terrific, and the wonder is that our boys" stood the abnormal climatic conditions. An Ameri- can correspondent, writing to the "Tyst," says that they well deserved the first prize. The contest was not an easy one. There were 14 choirs, and only four marks j divided the first three choirs in the com- petition. Alderman John Phillips' con- ducting was very much admired.

Footlight Fare. I NEW HIPPODROME. TONYPANDY. J Mr. Arthur Roberts, who is described as the Prince of Comedians." appears here this week in his playlet. "The Im- portance of Being Another Alan's Wife." In this Mr. Roberts plays the part of K'itzawfn.l Smith, retired captain of the 1st Bridgend Bombardiers. At the Covent Garden Ball he sees and falls temporarily I in love with Mrs. Thunder, the young wife of the retired old Major Tliund: r. He follows her home, climbs up a liddet- which the house-painters have carelessly left behind, and appears in the drawing- room of the flat with the utmost sangfroid and cheek. Scarcely has the distracted lady had time to draw a breath at his temerity, when Martha Jane, the Cockney servant, announces the Major. Terrible situation saved by woman's wit! Smith is hurried into the evening dress of Kitty. Mrs. Thunder's sister, from whom she has just received a telegram to the effect that her arrival will be delayed. The amusing complications make the play a scream from beginning to end. Perhaps the strongest and funniest episode is the one in which Kitty turns up. penetrates the captain's excruciating disguise, and puts on his dress suit, wdiich she finds in the basket where she had left her evening dres, Jack Sm lles 1-)ays a i?-cleoiiie rettirn dress. Jack Smiles pays a welcome return visit, and obliges his delighted auditors with "I don't suppose he'll do it again Ii for months and months and months." The other items include Rictoria Camp- hell. the Scottish nightingale; the Two Le Roys, unique vocalists and wooden shoe dancers Dare Austin and One. in their great comedy act. His "Wedding Morn": Geo. Rapley. comedian; and Will Stone's Perfection Pictures. WORKMEN'S HALL. TON. A splendid series of pictures and excel- lent variety contributions arc provided this week. Of the pictures, Heart of an Actress and A Game of Poker are most heartily applauded, the latter being very amusing. The Glanrhondda Variety Company, in their contribution, "The Married Ladies' Defence League," taiie the audience by storm with their outbursts of oratory and the excellent singing of choruses. All interested in the suffrage question should not fail to see this item. Helene and Emillon arc gymnasts who perform amazing feats in mid-air. the apparatus used being quite novel and original. These clever artistes thoroughly deserve the loud applause which greets them at the close of their entertainment. For next week, excellent variety artistes have been engaged. Rolf. E. Slater, assisted by four young fadies, will pro- vide an entertainment which is sure to please. Mr. Slater puts on canvas light- ning sketches in oils, which illustrate the songs which are beautifully rendered by his assistants. Both sketches and sing- ing are such as delight the, most critical. Ned Edwards, the popular Welsh come- dian. will sing in his usual inimitable style, and is sure to equal if not surpass the excellent contribution he gave when he appeared here some little while ago. WORKMEN'S HALL. FERNDALE. An exceptionally strong attraction is announced here for next week, when "The -belle of New York will be presented by Mr. J. Bannister Howard's company. It is some years since this famous American musica l comedy visited South Wales, so its welcome will be assured. The grace- ful dances, lively musical numbers, and quaint comedy contained in the piece all combine to form a most alluring show, a.nd when to these attractions are added dainty and up-to-date dresses and per- fectly new scenery, what more could any- one desire? The splendid cast of principals is headed by J r. Leslie Austin, who is quite at home in the part of "leliabod Bronson," the would-be reformer of the vice of x>ew York. As Harry Bronson," the reck- less spendthrift, Mr. Ernest Gifford is seen to advantage, while Mr. John Sanger undertakes the dual role of D c Snif- kins." the theatrical manager, and The Polite Lunatic." whose desire to kill Mr. Bronson keeps the audience in continuous convulsions of merriment. As Blinky Bill," Mr. Johnnie Schofield. junr.. could not conceivably be improved upon, and in several lively musical numbers he is ably assisted by his clever little partner. Miss Florence Hersee. who undertakes the role of Mamie Clancy." As Violet Gray." the sweet Salvation lassie. Miss Gabrielle Gordon is well cast, her demure appearance in the first act contrasting strongly with her assumed gaiety in the latter part of the play. Miss Dorothy Tunstan makes an ideal" Fifi Fricot." the little Parisienne, while Miss Ada Davidson is just natural as the dash- ing Cora Angelique." the queen of comic opera. The minor parts are in capable hands, and there is. in addition, a well-trained chorus under the direction of Mr. Bert J. Paterson. There will be a special morning per- formance on Wednesday next at 11 a.m.. and those patrons wishing to book seats for any performance may do so on appli- cation to the manager cf the hall. Mr. David Williams. CARDIFF EMPIRE. One of the most astonishing illusions ever yet staged will be presented at the CaiTliff Empire on Mt-nday next under the title of the "Arvi Mvstery." The stage is transformed into a perfect Grecian temple of mystery, in which ap- pear living statuary and famous paintings mysteriously produced in the flesh from nothing, in full view of the audience. The ever-welcome MeNaughfon Bros. also pay a return visit in fresh outbursts of hro- therlv affection. These two artistes need no praise their visits to Cardiff are pleasurably anticipated by all. A scream- I ingly funny act, entitled An Amateur Anarchist." will he presented by Carter Livesey and Lillian Roseberv, a pair of talented artistes. The Four Kasrars. pre- senting Buffet De Falls." are the last word in comical acrobats. A feast of good singing will be supplied by A. I. Mac- kinnon's Scottish Meisters, Scotland's representative male quartet. Carl Lynn. king of animal mimics; Elsie Maipas, juvenile actress; Jack Stocks, the trouble shiifter • and a new series of pictures on the Bioscope complete a really splendid programme. Patrons of this popular hall are re- minded of the matinee which will he given every day next week at 2.30 p.m. for Nature,'s Zco." wonderful pictures showing a record of the exnloits of the famous naturalist. Cherry Kearton,

E CARDIFF MPIRE (QUEEN STREET) 1M Ip I R E Proprietors MOSS EMPIRES. LTD. Managing Director Mr. FRANK ALLEN- Acting Manager.HERBERT J, TAYLOR TWICE Seat- booked daily by Poat or Tels. Nat. 6-5 -0- Monday, Sept 1st, and during the Wee". The Great ARVI MYSTERY, Presnted by Signer ARVI. The Grecian Temple of Mystery. A itost be- wildering and Electrifying spectacle. GALE and lIICRRA Y, in Comedy Act, FROM MILL TO STAGF. New and Interesting Pictures on the BIOSCOPE. CARL LYKN, King of Animal Mimics. ELSIE MALPAS, Juvenile Acrresa. A. 1. MACKINNON'S SCOTTISH MEtSTERS, Scotland's Representative Male Quartette. JACK STOCKS, The Trouble Shifter. CARTER LIVESEY and LILLIAN ROSEBER Y, in a screaming Absurdity, An Amateur Anarchist." The 4 KASRACS, presenting Buffet de Falla.' THE McNAUGHTONS (Fred and Gus) in Fresh Outbursts of Brotherly Affection. MATINEES ONLY, Every Day at NATURER'S ZOO, Wonderful Pictures shewing a record of the Exploits of Cherry Iveartou, the famous Naturalist. See Special Bills. D'ARC'S WAXWORK (Sr. MARY STREET), CARDIFF. Admission, 3d; Children, 2d j NEW MANAGEMENT WITH NEW IDEAS. JUST ADDED A Masterpiece of Art- "The Gorilla and Indian Maid." Moves like life. OTHER GRAND ATTRACTIONS PENDING. Grand New ORCHESTRION added. Automatics, &c. No Extra Charge. Palmistry0 SCIENTIFIC PALMISTRY, ADVICE, &c.BY Mdme. DELORES IN ATTENDANCE DAILY. Fees froJD. 1/- 1252 New Workmen's tyall, FERNDALE. General Manager DAVID WILLIAMS Monday, September 1st, 1913r Six Nights Only. Morning Performance on Wednesday at 11' Admission: 6d., 9d., and II- Important Engagement of Mr. J. BANISTER HOWARD'S PRINCIPAL COMPANY in THE BELLE OF NE W YORK The Cigarettes used on the stage are supplied by tb- ABDULLA CIGARET TE Co., 168, New Bond Street, W Full Company and Chorus Under the direction of Mr. B. J. PATERSON. General Manager Bert J. Paterson Aeting Manager Chas. Brandos Advance Agent J. L. S. Moas Assistant Stage Manager Arthur Lawronse For J. Banister Howard. Orchestral Stalls, 1/6; Reserved, 2/ Early door, 1,9, Front 3 Rowe, Circle, 1/6 Reserved, '1. Early door, 19, Pit. StaUe and Balcony, 1/ Early door, 1/3. Pit, Ground Floor, 9d.; Early door, I,. Back Seats, Scl. Early tioor, 9d. Early doora, 7. Ordinary doors, 7.16. Commence 7.30. Seats Booked at Manager's Office. Workmen's Hall TON PENTRE. Proprietors The Maindy and.Eastern Workmac Week Commencing Sept. 1st. ROLF. E. SLATER, Assisted by Four Young Ladies, in Songs and' Harmony, introducing Lightning Oil Painting NED EDWARDS Welsh Comedian, in all his latest successes- Full Performance Wednesday Morning at 10.30. 6-45 Twice Nightly I 8*45 PRICES AS USUAL. Printed for the Proprietors by Messrs. Evans & Short, Tonypandy. and publi-shel by the Proprietors, The Rhondda* Leader," Limited, at their Offices, Excel- sior Buildings, De Winton Street, Tony- pandy, in the County of Glamorgan.