The Aberdare Leader

Membership, We have just concluded the sixth year of the Chamber's existence, and the membership numbers for these years respectively are 99, 137, 142, 132, 130, and the last year 99. The balance sheet sets out 96. two members joined towards the end of the year, their sub- scriptions being received as paid for the ensuing year, which with our one hon- orary life member, makes up the num- ber I have triven. With the last day of our year, there passed away one of the members in the person of Mr. D. Hammond, who took a lively interest in the work of the Chamber, and who was in fact nomin- ated to a seat on our Executive Coun- cil. I am sure that the news of his death was received with deep regret by each of the members of the Cham- ber, and that it is felt that the Cham- ber has sustained a real and great loss. This is the only loss by death which I have to record, although there passed away from our midst, one whom we al- most regarded as a member, in that he was represented here in a sense by his son. I refer to Mr J. Davies, iron- monger, who was much esteemed by all who knew him, and whose demise is much regretted by the members of this Chamber. We have in the year just ended wit- nessed the outbreak of the war of al! time. We can only hope the present year will see its early and successful conclusion to our arms. This war has takenaway to the colours five members of the Chamber, while five members have sons serving, and four other mem- bers have brothers serving our country. I feel sure that each one carries the best wishes of the members as a whole, for their safety, and the hope that they will soon be amongst us again, well and hearty, none the worse for the sacrifice they are making for those of us left behind.

The War. You will observe that the reference to the question of membership and those absent, has led on to that all ab- sorbing topic, War," as a natural sequence, and while touching upon the subject, it may perhaps, not be out of place to here refer to those matters arising out of the war, with which we have dealt as a Chamber of Trade. One of the first serious situations occasioned by the declaration of war, was the pro- vision panic. The public seemed to have lost themselves for the moment, and there was a rush to traders for pro- visions, which was the means of ser- iously depleting the grocers' stocks, and which in these days of rapid transit, had not been maintained in anything like heavy holdings..The result was that increased prices became apparent very early, and these prevailed before there was real need for such a condi- tion, influenced to a great extent by the action of the public themselves. In an effort to remedy this and to gain unani- mity and that prices might be generally consistent, joint conferences of grocers became a necessity. Through the offices of this Chamber, several meetings were held, I think I might say, with very -ati satisfactory results, and perfect under- standing between those concerned.

Concert. A further matter that made itself felt, was the necessity to anticipate the far reaching effects brought about by the declaration of war in relation to dis- tress, etc. The National Relief Fund, inaugurated by H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, was a step in the right direction, and an anticipation of the magnitude of assistance required to deal with dis- tress and unemployment, arising out of the gravest situation with which we have been faced in present day history, was exemplified in what we have exper- ienced since. The Chamber considered the matter, and felt it incumbent upon them to assist in the local effort to augment the fund, with the result that a la'ge concert was held at the Market Hall, Aberdare, which was brought to a satisfactory conclusion, a clear sum of £ 81 19s. 7d. having been handed over to the local committee. The greatest credit is due to those who took an active part in this movement.

Soldiers and Sailors' Gifts. Later a feeling was expressed that the Chamber should shew their appreci- ation of those who were serving with the colours at the front or who were afloat with the Navy. The matter was rele- gated to a small committee, whom I may say, carried their labours through unostentatiously but nevertheless thor- oughly. They collected from among the 9 members a sum of nearly £ 20. Much deliberation was given to the question of what form our appreciation should take, and it was resolved to send out to each man formerly resident within the r.D. area of Aberdare a two pound I hermetically sealed box of Cadbury's Mexican Chocolate. The chocolate was sampled prior to despatch, and was of excellent quality. 88 packages were sent away together with one parcel given by a member in kind. A number of acknowledgments from the men have been received, and were you to read these letters expressing their thanks- more than thanks—gratitude—1 feel sure you will not begrudge the little effort made to cheer the hearts of these noble fellows who are doing so much for us.

I ncorperation. One of the earlier subjects dealt with during the year was that relating to incorporation. Our president-elect— Mr. T. W. Griffiths—gave you a very comprehensive address setting out the advantages and disadvantages of incor- poration. The subject was discussed at several meetings, and although the Project seemed on the whole a desirable one to carry into effect, it appeared to have been felt to be one beyond the re- sources of the Chamber at the time, and the matter was consequently dropped.

Discourses by Members. During the year, two papers were I'ead to the members, the first by Mr. W. H. Fenton. who chose for his dis- course the subject Money." This Proved exceedingly interesting, and probably contrary to what the title might have led one to expect, it was somewhat humorous. The other paper Presented was given by Mr W. J. Gwyddonwv Evans on The Problem of Child Employment, and the Germ&n Example." Itis also proved an ex- cellent discourse, so much so, that it has been left over for further discussion in this current year, to see whether or not some lessons may be learned from the contentions set out therein.

Miscellaneous Matters. The direction of the respective authorities concerned were drawn to the following matters:— The necessity of improving the dangerous condition of a portion of the roadway at Aberaman. The necessity of providing higher walls to certain urinals, and the pro- vision of additional urinal accommo- dation in the neighbourhood. The desirability of applying the Town Police Clauses Act with a measure of forbearance, and not strictly as set out In the Act. Among other matters brought for- ward for discussion were the following: Income Tax Anomalies. Proposed Victoria Square Lavatory. Dinner Hour Closing for Business Premises. Jury System.. Infantile Mortalitly and Sanitation. National Library. Additional Motor Signs in Dangerous Places. Belgian Shopping. The Habit of a Section of the Local Public in Shopping from Home. The Question of Creating a Toy- making Industry at Aberdare. The latter mentioned, you will be aware, has to be discussed at a later date.

Federated Chambers. The War has curtailed to some extent the operations of the Federated Cham- bers, the Autumn General Meeting hav- ing been postponed. The Chamber, however, attended by delegate the Summer Half-yearly Meeting, where some useful work was accomplished.

Educational. During the year an examination was held in connection with the Chamber's Scholarship Scheme, which resulted in favour of the son of Mr. J. Williams, Cardiff Street. This makes two scholarships the Chamber have running. Another educational matter of im- portance is one we have in hand at the moment. It is that concerning the pro- posal to hold a centre in this town for periodical examinations under the London Chamber of Commerce. The passes in examinations under this body are regarded of considerable value to Commercial Students, and of high edu- cational attainment by those preparing for the higher professions. The holding I • of these examinations should prove of much use and encouragement to the young women and men in the town who desire to sit from time to time for the purpose of testing their educational progress. You have already accepted the proposition, and all that remains to conclude the resolve is to select the committee to deal with the work. The credit for carrying out this proposition is due to Mr. 0. C. Bugler, who, realiz- ing the 'value to students, obtained the necessary particulars, and in an able address to the Chamber brought about this desirable end.

Urban District Council. On the Urban District Council an in- creased representation has been made, and it is mete perhaps to here con- gratulate two members in the persons of Mr T. W. Griffiths and Mr W. Hag- gar, who have secured seats thereon.

Picnic. As is customary each year, the annual picnic was again held, Minehead being visited. I had not the pleasure of ac- companying you upon this occasion, but from all I hear. it turned out most satis- factorily, and proved an enjoyable day "e to those who took the opportunity af- forded for a dfly's relaxation.

Tramway Extension. It would appear that further progress in our town and neighbourhood is con- templated. At any rate it seems we are to enjoy further improvements, which include an extensive Tramway exten- sion. That this extension will prove of material benefit to the town cannot be much doubted, and that the enterprise may be fully justified by the witnessing of greater and wider industrial pros- persity and extension is an expectancy we all hope to see fulfilled. The Cham- ber duly considered this proposal of Tramway Extension, and supported it as far as the extensions were thought to be desirable in the interests of the community.

Plate Glass Department. The Plate Glass Department has con- tinued to shew up as an useful adjunct to the Chamber's business, and is still growing in membership, nine new poli- cies having been effected within the past three months. In this department, the committee governing the work have re- solved to alter the method by which the application of mutual benefits were to be carried out. The original method of applying the benefits was by a proposal to reduce the premiums payable, when accumulated funds grew to a given sum. Now that has been altered, the method will be to reduce the premiums on a percentage basis, on the results and experiences of each preceding year, always taking care thnt the reserve fund already built up, shall be maintained to meet contingencies.

Correspondence. Among items of correspondence dealt with during the year there do not ap- pear to be many outside the subjects upon which I have already touched. They include principally the following Cardiff University re University Course. Aberavon Chamber of Trade re County Council Extravagances. Urban District Council re Motor Warn- ing Signs. Superintendent of Police re Point Duty. The Secretary of the Belgian Relief Committee re Shopping of Hefn- gees. The Local Shop Assistants' Union re Shops' Act and Closing Hours. There are some here, Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen, who will have noticed that I have passed over the question of our somewhat depleted membership. You will now see that I have not over- looked it, but rather have I left it for mention toward the end of my report, in the hope that by so doing I shall have emphasized the necessity of mak- ing a special effort to round' up old members who have seceded, and to in- duce others as well to come in. That our membership has dwindled down from that in previous years we must realize, that it is less than it should be we are already convinced, when we look back to some little time ago, when it numbered close on 150. It is well to face these facts, and in facing them to alter them, with the set purpose of con- tinuing the useful work that has been accomplished by the Chamber in the past. In conclusion, gent-lemon, allow me to express my hearty thanks to the Pre- sident and other Officers, who have assisted me in my efforts over the past few months which I have found most interesting and educative. I am looking forward, as a townsman, to seeing further successful years of work by the Chamber, and as to the im- mediate period we now face, I feel sure that in our President elect we shall have a Chairman no less worthy than the retiring one, and who having the interests of the Chamber similarly at heart will lead us through another fruit- ful year, of interest and benefit to each member attached to this body.

Mountain Ash Education Committee. On Tuesday, Mr Evan Morris in the chair. The other members present were: Mrs. W. G. Williams, Messrs. Davies, W. Lamburn, Charles Aladciyx, James Evans, Noah Bowles, George Neighbour, W. Millar, Griffith Evans, J.P., Bruce Jones, Thomas Jones, J.P., J. Powell, with Mr Alfred Morgan (Director) and Mr Salusburv Roberts (assist, director).

Difficulties in the R.C. School. It was reported that Miss Teresa Scott, Hereford, had applied for a posi- tion in the Mountain Ash R.C. School. She was a supplementary teacher when last employed in an elementary school. She was now teaching a special subject in another school, and she asked to be paid the salary of an uncertificated teacher, which meant an increased mini- mum of £ 5. There was a letter from Father Irvine, recommending the committee to appoint this lady, and adding that two R.C. teachers would be resigning shortly. Mr. Bruce Jones wai not in favour of breaking the rules for the sake of se- curing the service&of this lady. If the committee grantee! the request in this case. they would be obliged to make similar concessions whenever there would be a dearth of teachers in the Council Schools. Director You have done something similar before. Mr Noah Bowles remarked that the committee would land themselves in difficu lties if they would depart from their usual practice. n ivir cruce Jones: We have spent weeks and months on the salaries ques- tion, and we continually gettsome pe- culiar cases, for which we are asked to break our rules. I move we stick to our regulations. Mr \V. Lamburn asked if teachers could be transferred from the Council Schools to the R.C. School. Director We have not enough teach- ers ourselves, and things are getting worse. Mr Bruce Jones observed that all iu- dustries were short-handed at present. Mr W. Lamburn said Hat two R.C. teachers would be leaving shortly, and steps should be taken to secure a pro- per staff for that school, so that the children should not suffer. Director: Mr Lamburn knows the difficulties in that school, because he is one of the managers. If all the mem- bers knew the difficulties they would be prepared to go so far as they possibly could. Mr Bruce Jones: What will be said if we show a preferential treatment to the teachers of the R.C. School? Mr Lamburn: We must point out L"h■ t there is a scarcity of teachers. Mr W. Millar remarked that this school laboured under greater difficul- ties than any other school, and it was in constant difficulties. In order to afford the children in that school proper education, I would go to the extent of suggesting an honorarium for that teacher. Mr Noah Bowles: The difficulty is one experienced for some years past, and throughout the country so far as R.C. Schools are concerned. Is it right to have one set of rules for that school and another set for the other schools r Mr 117. Lamburn said that in a few months time there would probably he plenty of teachers coming from college, and the committee should do their ut- most to tide over till that time. Mr Bruce Jones The only solution is for the Managers and Director to de- vise some way of taking away a certain number of children from the R.C. School and drafting them into some of the Council Schools. The staff will then perhaps be sufficient to cope with the children remaining. Rev. George Neighbour pointed out that this teacher was now teaching a special subject for the last 14 months. Would not that entitle her to something more than a supplementary teachers' salary? Mr*. Bruce Jones suggested that the Director and a small committee con- sider the whole question, and that plen- ary powers be given to the committee.

More Teachers Enlist. The Director reported that a few more teachers had enlisted, and he would offer the vacant positions to ap- plicants which he had on his list. Shriuid these not accept he would ad- vertise.

St. David's Day. The Director said that Mr W. Ed- wards, H.M.I., had written hoping tl committee would go through some kind of programme on St. David's Day morning. That, of course, was under- stood, and the committee had so decid- ed. There would be a holiday in the afternoon.

Flag Day. Mr Thomas Jones suggested that Flag Day he observed on Saturday, Feb. 27, and that the Director be authorised to purchase the necessary things. Mr. Bruce Jones thought it would be well for all the head teachers to meet together first of all, and agree to some scheme, and then organise a Flag Day for each Ward in the district. Mr J. Powell agreed and the sug- gestion was adopted.

Miskin Higher Standard School. Mr Noah Bowles reported that lie had met the architect at the above school, and he recommended that a small por- tion of the playground be asphalted at an approximate cost of E3. The recommendation'was adopted.

Teachers' Attendances. The Director submitted a return of teachers' attendances for January, 1915. Mr Bruce Jones asked whether the officials sent a letter now and again to some of those teachers who were ab- s senting themselves. It might have a' good effect. The Director knew the teaching staff better than he did, just as he (Mr. Jones) knew colliery officials better than the Director. Mr J. Powell suggested that a small tte committee be appointed To go into the matter, because there was a good deal of dissatisfaction about it. Director: I dpn't think there is any need for a committee. The head teach- ers send in. a list of absences at the end of the month, and the return shows whether a teacher has been ill, or whether the absence is due to some other cause. If the latter the manager of the school has granted permission. There has been a good deal of illness lately. Some schools have nearly col- lapsed. Of course if a teacher is ill the doctor says so and there is an end to it. —Mr J. Powell: There will be no harm at all in a small committee going into the subject, and I move that.—Mr W. Millar seconded.—Rev. George Neigh- bour said that the manager of each school should consult with the head- teachers and make himself responsible for that school.—Mr. Bruce Jones said he could not find time to keep in touch with the schools.—Mr. W. Millar: I attend as often as I can, still I am not informed of teachers who stay at home owing to illness. After further dis- cussion the Director was asked to report at the next meeting as to what was the best course to take.

JHL ww The War. PRIVATE ALFRED JONES RETURNS FROM THE FRONT. Early in August Private A. Jones, of Trecynon, joined his regiment, the Som- erset Light Infantry, for the front, so he has been through almost all the chief engagements. It is difficult to get de- scriptions from this seasoned soldier. His brother, Mr. Jack Jones and Mrs. J. Jones, daughter of Mr. Rees Davies, Trecynon, manage to get a few facts now and then. We are all familiar with the account of Mons. Mr. A. Jones says that he cannot imagine that anything can happen again to equal it. The few British had orders to hold a village for four hours. They waited four and even eight, but still the 50,000 French, who were expected to relieve them, did not come. The British withdrew, but not through lack of courage, because they kept 'to the spot till the last. In September the time in the trenches was very different from what it is now. The men had to keep to the same duty for eight days and eight nights, but when more came out the duty was shortened to two days and two nights. There is no greater encouragement for the men out there than to know that fresh battalions are arriving daily. The greater the numbers the shorter will be the war. As we have heard so often the soldiers are a very jovial crowd. Very seldom do their jokes cease altogether. Mr. Jones remembers one occasion when they got very still. They were only about thirty-two at the bottom of a street and had only one machine gun between them, when crowds of Germans tore madly upon them. The British kept the enemy at bay for some time with the gun until after they had almost given up hope relief came. When they pre- sented themselves later to the officers the latter remarked that they were amazed to see so many safe. From now on encounters such as these will be less frequent, and the British will rarely be so outnumoored by the enemy. Mr. A. Jones says he would never like to be taken prisoner alone; he would rather die than give himself over. He seems to have led a charmed life. A bullet grazed his ear at the very start. Since then cold has been his worst enemy, in the form of cold water, cold mud, cold rain and cold winds. So we could scarcely expect to have him home without any kind of cold or frost attack. He has such a tanned face that everyone else looks pale by confparison. The soldiers are continually seeing fights in the air between the German French. The sudden twists and turns of the planes are executed with such skill that the coolest onlookers cannot help being startled. "Looping the loop is tame by all this. It is a pity fr. A. Jones did not think of bringing more German mementoes back with him; he is a man who does not go in for display in any form. What he did bring back was a pair of slippers he found belonging to a dead German officer, also his note book, containing the addresses of German friends. In this book there was a pencil drawing, pro- bably of a British encampment. It is interesting to see the splendid stuff Government provides. Mr. Jones' woollen things looked just the thing for the winter nights out there. He has all the Royal Christmas gifts and also sou- venirs from the Red Cross nurses at Ex- mouth. Here the surrounding gentry gave Mr. Alfred Jones and his friends a very good time—motor rides and visits to tea, which they well deserved. After his fortnight's holiday he returns to duty, having the best wishes of his friends for his success and the best of fortune in war.

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Aberdare Brotherhood. ADDRESS BY COUNCILLOR MADDOX. An open meeting of the above was held on Sunday afternoon at Green Street Chapel. The Rev. H. Barra- clough presided. Councillor C. Maddox, Abercynon, spoke on "The Power of Jesus Christ to-day." He declared that Christ was as potent a factor in the destinies of the world to-day as He ever was. If any weakness existed it was in the channels that conveyed this power Even now, while the world was at war, the power of Jesus was not on the wane. Britain stood for the prin- ciple of right against might, which was the basic principle of the Christian gospel. Some people attributed the present unrest to the growth of educa- tion, but he did not believe in holding a brief for ignorance in that way. Recreation and education were powers for good, but they should be regulated by religious discretion. The good that we might do might last for a while, but the good that Christ might work through us was of eternal duration. He did not believe that it was in times of adversity only that we were given power and strength from above. We should not think that our aim in life was to make ourselves comfortable, but also to provide comfort for others. Let us not agitate for charity but justice. Let not wealth be the chief feature in our economics but ability. A certain learned professor had said that the brain of a worker's child equalled that of the well-to-do offspring. It was the inequality of opportunity that made the difference.

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