/

TOTAL NET PAID CIRCULATION OF THIS ISSUE EXCEEDS 23,000
JAa / louon iMuwyL Jndwu/uj
PREDICT ANOTHER TWO YEARS
FOR FINAL COURT DECISIONS
Page 8
HUGHES-RKO DEAL SIGNED;
NO CHANGES ANTICIPATED
Page 9
COVER STORY: 'I Remember Mama'
Wins April Blue Ribbon Award
Page 30
M 'III:
.4
^'S
*. r
i*±*y
W* *"
V
, «! fP
frrr,.-'
ii^*^l
y^
:-^i:
-«3h
••%#-
^'-^
,.^-'
WnONAL EXECUTIVE EDITION
Intluiling ihi SKlional litv>t Pages of All Editions
MAY 15, 1948

,4 of y»"
r ^ You're ^^"® i
Cstef
/"^
,i^
fC .
^
?rL.
*j«»fc?,
.e
-—rj^^^.'
^ •/ NA/'
'1

1
I
I
JOIN THE GALA-THEATRE-CELEBRITY PARTIES!
IRAM
:V--'
ALBANY—WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Delaware Theatre, 290 Delaware Avenue
ATLANTA-WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Garden Hills Theatre, 2827 Peachtree Road
BOSTON—MON. 6/7—8 P.M.
iflFIn* Arts Theatre, Massachusetts Ave. and Norway St.
BUFFALO—THUR. 6/10—8 P.M.
Midtown Theatre, 647 Main Street
CHARLOTTE—MON. 6/7—8 P.M.
Manor Theatre, 607 Providence Road
CHICAGO—THUR. 6/10—8s30 P.M.
Vogue Theatre, 3810 North Broadway
\ /
;^ ;^^^^.^/^'^^^^^^^..^
IRVING
BERLIN
^>'
CINCINNATI—MON. 6/7—8il5 P.M.
Ridge Theatre, 6042 Montgomery Road
CLEVELAND—TUES. 6/8—8 P.M.
Atlor Theotre, 8405 Hough Avenue
DALLAS—MON. 6/7—8 P.M.
Detman Theatre, Lemon Ave. and Hackberry SI.
DENVER—WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Jewel Theotre, 1912 Sooth Broadway
DES MOINES—WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Uptown Theatre, 4115 University
DETROIT—MON. 6/7—8:15 P.M.
Midtown Theatre, 711 West Canfleld
INDIANAPOLIS—WED. 6/9—8:30 P.M.
Cinema Theatre, 213 East 16th Street
KANSAS CITY—TUES. 6/8—8 P.M.
Vogue Theatre, 3444 Broadway
LOS ANGELES—MON. 6/7—8:30 P.M.
Four Star Theatre, 5112 Wilshire Boulevard
MEMPHIS—MON. 6/7—8 P.M.
Hollywood Theatre, 2469 Chelsea Avenue
MILWAUKEE—TUES. 6/8—8 P.M.
Tosa Theatre, 6823 West North Avenue
MINNEAPOLIS—WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Granada Theatre, 3022 Hennepin Avenue
NEW HAVEN—WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Westville Theatre, 892 Whalley Avenue
NEW ORLEANS—THUR. 6/10—8:15 P.M.
Cortex Theatre, 201 South Cortex Street
(NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY—MON. 5/17—8:30 P.M.
Loew's State Theatre, 1 540 Broadway
OKLAHOMA CITY—MON. 6/7—8 P.M.
Plaxa Theatre, 1725 Northwest t6th
JUDYJHHJ^
FRED
/
II
OMAHA—WED. 6/9—8 P.M.
Dundee Theatre, 4952 Dodge Street
PHILADELPHIA—WED. 6/9—1 1 A.M.
M-G-M Screen Room, 1233 Summer Street
PinSBURGH—MON. 6/7—8i30 P.M.
Shadyslde Theatre, 5518 Walnut Street
PORTLAND—TUES. 6/8—8 P.M.
Esquire Theatre, 838 Northwest 23rd Street
ST. LOUIS—TUES. 6/8—8 P.M.
Apollo Theatre, 323 De Baliviere
SALT LAKE CITY—MON. 6/7—8:30 P.M.
Southeast Theatre, 2121 South Eleventh East
SAN FRANCISCO—MON. 6/7—8 P.M.
Guild Theatre, 1069 Market Street
SEAHLE—WED. 6/9-8:30 P.M.
Neptune Theatre, 1307 East 45th Street
WASHINGTON-MON. 6/7—8:30 P.M.
lotional ArchWet AwdHorlum, 8th St. and P«nn Ave., N.W.
•k
GARLAND ASTAIRE
PETER LAWFORD
ANN MILLER
COLOR BY TECHNICOLOR
Scmn Plij li» SIDNEY SHELDON, FRANCES GOODRICH wd AlBERI HACKEn • Original Story by FRANCES fiOOORICH oA ALBERT HACKETI
Lyrics ind Music by Moslcal Noinbers Directed by DIreclid by Produced by
IRVING BERLIN -ROBERT ALTON • CHARLES WALTERS -ARTHUR FREED
A METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURE
(Food for thought on page 12)
.

'fV^HdP'"" 1^ ' -
'-j.'-g:ga9i»i'. '' j

Scien Ploy by Stephen Longstreei and Harriet Frank, Jr. From a Novel by Stephen Longstreet Music by Max Sieiner

'.
'
THE NATIONAL FILM WEEKLY
publish:d in nine sectional editions
BEN SHLYEN
Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
JAMES M. JERAULD Editor
NATHAN COHEN Associate Editor
JESSE SHLYEN Managing Editor
IVAN SPEAR Western Editor
FLOYD M. MIX Equipment Editor
RAYMOND LEVY General Manager
Published Every Saturday by
ASSOCIATED PUBLICATIONS
OXOFFICE
FREEDOM OF THE
SCREEN
(I
Editorial Ollicss: 9 Rockefeller Plaza, New York 20,
N. Y. Raymond Levy, General Manager; lames M.
lerauld. Editor; Chester Friedman, Editor Showmondiser
Section; A. J. Stocker, Eastern Representative
Telephone Columbus 5-6370, 5-6371, 5-6372. Cable
address "BOXOFriCE, New York."
Central Ollices: 1327 South V/abash Ave., Chicago
S 111 Hnos Perlberg, Manager; Donald Maggart.
Central Representative, Telephone WEBster 4745.
Western Oiiices: 6404 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood
22. Calil. Ivan Spear, Manager. Telephone GLodstone
1186.
Washington Ollices: 302-303 International Bldg., 1319
r St., N. W. Lee L. Garling, Manager. Telephone
NAtional 3482. Filmrow: 932 New Jersey, N. W. Sara
Young.
London Ollices; 136 Wordour St., John Sullivan, Manager.
Telephone Gerrard 3934-5-6.
Publication Ollices! 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City
1, Mo. Nathan Cohen, Associate Editor; Jesse Shlyen,
Managing Editor; Morris Schlozman, Business Manager.
J Herbert Roush, Manager Advertising
and Service. Telephone CHestnut 7777-78.
Sales
Other Publications: BOXOFFICE BAROMETER,
published in November as a section of BOXOFFICE:
THE MODERN THEATRE, published monthly as a
section ol BOXOFFICE.
ALBANY—21-23 Walter Ave., M. Berringan.
ATLANTA— 163 Walton, N. W., P. H. Savin.
BIRMINGHAM—The News, Eddie Badger.
BOSTON—Frances W. Harding, Lib. 9814.
BUFFALO— 157 Audubon Drive, Snyder, Jim Schroder.
CHARLOTTE—216 W. 4th, Pauline Griffith.
CINCINNATI— 1634 Central Parkway, Lillian Seltzer.
CLEVELAND—Elsie Loeb, Fairmount 0046.
DALLAS—4525 Hollard, V. W. Crisp, 18-9760.
DENVER— 1645 Lafayette, Jack Rose, TA 8517.
DES MOINES—Register & Tribune Bldg., Russ Schoch.
DETROIT— 1009 Fox Theatre Bldg., H. F. Reves.
Telephones: RA 1100; Night, UN-4-0219.
HARTFORD— 109 Westborne, Allen Widem.
HARRISBURG, PA.—Mechanicsburg, Lois Fegan.
INDIANAPOLIS—Rt. 8, Box 770, Howard M. Rudeaux.
MIAMI—66 S. Hibiscus Island, Mrs. Manton E. Harwood.
2952 Merrick Rd., Elizabeth Sudlow.
MEMPHIS—707 Spring St., Null Adams, Tel. 48-5462.
MILWAUKEE—529 N. 13th, J. R. Gahagan, MA-0297.
MINNEAPOLIS—29 Washington Ave. So., Les Rees.
NEW HAVEN—42 Church St., Gertrude Lander.
NEWARK, N. J.—207 Sumner, Sara Carleton.
NEW ORLEANS— Mrs. Jack Auslet, 3137 Elysian Fields
Avenue.
OKLAHOMA CITY—216 Terminal Bldg., Polly Trindle.
OMAHA—Omaha World-Herald Bldg., Lou Gerdes
PHILADELPHIA—1901 Spruce St., J. M. Makler.
PITTSBURGH—«6 Van Broom St., R. F. Klingensmith.
PORTLAND, ORE.—David C. Kahn, BR, 1181, ext. 156
RICHMOND—Grand Theatre, Sam Pulliam.
ST. LOUIS—5149 Rosa, David Barrett, FL-3727
SALT LAKE CITY—Deseret News, Howard Pearson.
SAN ANTONIO—333 Blum St., L. J. B. Ketner
SAN FRANCISCO—25 Taylor St., Gail Upman,
ORdway 3-4812.
SEATTLE—928 N. 84th St., Willard Elsey.
TOLEDO-4330 Willys Pkwy., Anna Kline.
IN CANADA
CALGARY-The Albertan, Wm. Campbell.
MONTREAL— 4330 Wilson Ave., N. D. G., Roy Carmichael,
Wahiut 5519.
ST. JOHN- 116 Prince Edward St., Wm. J. McNulty.
TORONTO— 242 Milwood, Milton Galbraith.
VANCOUVER—411 Lyric Theatre Bldg., Jack Droy.
VICTORIA— 938 Island Highway, Alec Merriman.
WINNIPEG—The Tribune, Ben Lepkin.
Member Audit Bureau op Circulations
V->/nE part of the Supreme Court's decision
in the antitrust case with which everyone in this business
will agree is this single sentence:
"We have no doubt that moving pictures, like newspapers
and radio, are included in the press whose freedom
is guarcmteed by the First Amendment."
This statement might be said to have been gratuitously'
made, for it was not issued in coimection with a direct involvment
of the screen's freedom. Yet it serves to answer a question,
or rather a claim, which frequently has been made.
This Supreme Court judgment may preclude the raising of
such a question before it at some future date, when, as has
so often been felt, such an opinion would need to be sought
where the screen's freedom is challenged. That dates back
to the initial incursions of censorship and the various involvments
therewith which the motion picture has encountered.
Now that the "proof" of the motion picture's rights under
the Constitution are upheld by the highest court in the land,
it should at least serve to relieve it of some of the nuisance
charges which have plagued it. But it will not reHeve the
industry of its responsibility for a clean screen.
Incidentally, the privilege of free speech can be abused,
as, unfortunately, the motion picture industry, which often has
been made the target, full well knows. Now that the kinship
between the screen, the press and the radio has been so authoritatively
established, it is to be hoped that the latter two
will no longer treat it
as a step-relation.
A Need, Indeed!
1
In comment on the industry's public relations campaign fl'i
'
and connecting with it the Supreme Court's antitrust decision, fl»
Alan L. Otten, Washington correspondent for the Wall Street -Wk
Journal, made the following observations:
"The movie industry still hasn't gotten around to considering
one key aspect of its public relations drive—how to curb
internal rows, especially those pereimial disputes between
big film distributors and independent theatre ovmers . . . This
situation threcrtens to be of prime importance in the near future,
now that the Supreme Court has acted to break up theatre
holdings of producer-distributors and do owcry with certain
allegedly monopolistic trade practices.
" 'Some internal machinery must be worked out to handle
this intraindustry dissension,' says a key industry official.
I
1^
Entered ii^ Second Class matter at Post Office, Kansas City, Mo.
Sectional Edition, $3.00 per year; National Edition, ^7.50
Vol. 53
MAY 1
5,
No. 2
19 4 8

"
Pcd4e ScaU
Unless we do that, we may get a new mark on the public's
)lacklisl.'
Pertinent?
Indeed!
By the way, AUied's Kansas-Missouri unit held its first
tnnual convention in Kansas City this week. That's a rela-
|ively routine item of news. But it is distinguished by the fact
ihat many members, including officers, of the "rival" Kansas-
|i4issouri Theatres Ass'n, a TOA unit, attended the open sessions
of the Allied meeting. It may be nothing more than a
festure of "good fellowship." It does not necessarily mean an
[.'ventual "merger" of the two rival exhibitor groups. But it
i:ould very well blossom into a full-fledged get-together-work-
[ogether movement that ultimately would provide the industry
vith smooth-working machinery for deaHng with its internal
>roblems. In a number of spots around the country, this kind
|)f teamwork is functioning with good success in the handling
)f some common external problems.
n
the Good Order
That financial reports can be something more than just
|:old figures is aptly demonstrated by Paramount's aimual resort
which that company issued last week to its stockholders.
Ind it further demonstrates how well such an instrument can
)e made to serve the industry as a whole. With Paramount's
itockholders numbering into the thousands, the message conlOined
in the introductory statement in this report can be con-
(Veyed by word-of-mouth to many hundreds of thousands of
people in all walks of life.
Captioned "The State of the Nation's Movies," the statenent
above referred to sets forth a few simple facts to correct
he false impressions which have been variously broadcast
ibout the motion picture industry. The matter is well met and
veil handled. Those sections of the press which have maligned
he industry through "panicky retrenchment" stories about
ioUywood production would be doing a real public service
f they would now give their readers the true facts. One naional
weekly, New^s\week magazine, last week devoted its
ront cover and two full pages in such exemplary fashion.
In line with the industry's public relations program which
rails for selling the industry as well as the picture, this senence
culled from the Paramount statement is noteworthy: "The
act is that the completed pictures ready now to be shown not
3nly by Paramount but by other companies in the next six
inonths, constitutes perhaps the finest series of entertainments
ihat have ever reached the screen in a similar period." That's
/ery much in the good order of "all for one and one for all.'
Court in Boston Confirms
Flat Rental Damages
Decision handed down May 12 upholds two
percentage fraud suits filed by Loew's and
Paramount against the Tremont, Normandy
and Bijou in Boston; Square. Medford, and
Uphams Corner, Dorchester.
Du Mont's Recording System
For Television Available
Company demonstrates method for filming
programs from receiver as Paramoimt does;
buys huge Wright airplane plant in East
Paterson, N. J. for $1,700,000.
Ken Clark, Paul Raibourn
-»<
In Press Control Talks
MPAA representative and Raibourn, representing
television broadcasters, to attend May
26 meeting on peace news censorship with
Secretary Forrestal and new press advisory
council.
Exchanges Free of Fire
Second Year in Row
More than six million miles of inflammable
film handled without loss at 400 exchanges
and depots m 1947, John B. McCullough,
MPAA conservation director, reports.
Contempt Trials Postponed
As Guilty Pair Appeals
Eight writers charged with contempt of
congress granted delays by U.S. district court
until higher courts hear appeals of Howard
Lawson and Dalton Triunbo.
Rocky Mountain Allied Unit
To Convene May 17, Denver
Two-day convention will be preceded by
the meeting of the board of national Allied,
with both gatherings set for the Cosmopolitan
hotel.
SMPE to Meet May 17-21
In Santa Monica, Calif.
Society of Motion Picture Engineers to hear
detailed reports on technical progress being
made in virtually every phase of motion pictures
at 63rd semiannual convention.
NLRB Sets Monday Meeting
On Salesmen Union Vote
Representatives of Colosseum of Motion
Picture Salesmen and companies expected to
agree on procedure for salesmen to vote
whether they want union to represent them.
V^Co/w
First Quarterly Earnings
For Paramount Reported
Three months ending April 3, 1948 estimated
at $7,760,000, after all charges including estimated
provision for taxes on income; same
period last year totaled $9,522,000.

PREDICT ANOTHER TWO YEARS
FOR FINAL COURT DECISIONS
Five Attorneys Estimate
Another Two Years for
Divorcement Moves
NEW YORK—How long will it take to
run the three antitrust cases—Paramount.
Schine and Griffith—through the courts?
How long will it take to complete whatever
theatre divorcement is ordered?
Abram F. Myers, Allied general counsel,
is en record with a six-month estimate for
the court actions.
Five attorneys, who refuse to allow use
of their names, predict two years at least
for the court actions and another two years
for the divorcement moves.
The two-year estimates for the court actions
are admittedly guesses, because nobody
will a; tempt to figure out how far the judges
will go in inquiring into the history of
theatre acquisitions—especially in closed
situations.
HOW PROPHECIES ARE BASED
The two-year prophecies on divorcement
are based on the fact that two years was
allowed in the Crescent case. The divorcement
was completed in two years on that
circuit, except for two theatres, and the court
granted a six-month extension for these.
Two years also was allowed in the Schine
case by Judge John Knight at Buffalo.
Knight ruled the Schines could keep houses
In towns where they owned or controlled the
only theatre and they could select the houses
in closed situations which were to be turned
over to a trustee for disposal. There is no
way of knowing whether this method will
again be applied, or whether the precedent
wiU be used by the three-judge court in
the Paramount case.
As in the Paramount case, the history of
each Schine acquisition must be studied and
consideration must be given to geographical
groupings. The supreme court did not lay
down specific rules as to how the divestitures
should be made.
REHEARING REQUEST DEADLINE
The defendants in the three cases have
until May 28 to ask for rehearings in the
supreme court. No such requests are expected,
as only one attorney has even hinted
that he might make the request.
Before the end of the month the clerk
of the com-t will issue mandates sending the
cases back to the lower com-ts. The supreme
court will adjourn for the summer June 1.
The U.S. district courts in New York adjourn
for the summer at the end of June
and resume in October. One or two judges
are available for conferences and emergencies.
This is taken to mean that the antitrust
case will not receive any important attention
In New York before October.
This will be almost exactly three years
after the three-judge expediting court began
the trial Oct. 8, 1945. Justice Augustus N.
Hand and Judges John Bright and John W.
Goddard set out to eliminate all the embroidery
and technical delaying tactics from
Decision
Interpretations
NEW YORK—^An outline of trade practices which will prevail during the
year or more three courts are considering the supreme court rulings in the Paramount,
Schine and Griffith cases is beginning to emerge
The discussions are still on and no decisions have been reached, but comments
by various lawyers make the following probable:
BIDDING:
There may be a small amount of competitive bidding where exhibitors ask
for it. The theory is that the exhibitors will be unable to claim they have been
denied better runs.
ARBITRATION:
Arbitration probably will be continued as it is until the three-judge expediting
court decides whether it wants the present rules or new ones. Four companies
have indicated they favor this because it provides a method of using precedents
to prove clearances are reasonable.
TRADESHOWS:
Tradeshows will be continued. This is because the picture-by-picture selling
method will probably be retained while the case is before the court.
Universal is studying the legality of franchises as a result of the supreme
court ruling. Columbia will resume selling in blocks, but is undecided on how
large they will be. A 20 per cent cancellation privilege is allowed on pictures not
tradeshown.
CIRCUIT EXPANSION:
Theatre expansion will be strictly limited and only with the approval of the
court. One circuit operator said some acquisitions might be desirable, but there
would be no point in making them without assurances they would stick while
the divorcement problem is being studied.
CmCUn CONTRACTION:
Piecemeal disposal of theatres where there are closed situations is predicted
by some lawyers, even before the court makes specific rulings. This was accomplished
over a two-year period in the Crescent case by splitting up companies with
joint stock ownerships.
In the Schine case the circuit was under orders when it took its appeal to the
supreme court, to get rid of over 50 theatres in 41 situations.
The method of disposal ordered in that case was the appointment of a trustee
who was to have had full power to sell. Schine was to have had the privilege of
selecting the houses. Now case situation must be re-examined in detail and the
court must make the decisions.
the case, but even so it was one year and
two months—Dec. 31, 1946—before the decision
and decree were finally handed down.
No delay is expected in naming a successor
to Judge Bright, deceased. The record already
built up is expected to furnish the
basis for most of the argument and new
briefs, but the angle that has the lawyers
speculating in what system the comt will
apply in going into the history of theatre
acquisitions theatre-by-theatre. Some predict
it will be done through special masters,
but they hold up their hands when asked
to estimate how much time this would consume.
After the detailed recommendations
for theatre disposals are before the court more
briefs probably will be presented.
It Is pretty generally agreed that the speed
record of one year and two months already
set by this court will not be broken.
The supreme court took over the Paramount
case Feb. 26, 1947, and the decision
was handed down May 3, 1948. This was one
year and two months—almost exactly the
same length of time the three-judge court
consumed.
It cannot be said definitely that the cases
will go back to the supreme court, but if
there are drastic divorcement orders it Is
considered likely that the lawyers will exhaust
all possibilities of appeal.
If the time schedules of the three-judge
court and the supreme court are again maintained,
the next high court ruling could be
in 1950 or 1951.
If the Schine and Crescent precedents of
allowing two years for actual disposal of
theatres are followed, the windup might come
in 1952 or 1953.
Since the three-judge decision in the Paramount
case a number of theatre transfers
have been carried out to conform therewith,
and some lawyers predict some of the large
circuits may be reduced in size before final
court action.
ill
BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

!
HUGHES-RKO
'5
NO
DEAL SETTLED;
MAJOR CHANGES PLANNED
Payment Over $8,825,000;
Atlas Corp. to Retain
Big Stock Interest
HOLLYWOOD—RKO Radio began a new
phase of its lengthy and checkered industry
career when, bringing to completion of one
of the most important transactions in recent
motion picture history, Howard Hughes' bid
for Floyd Odium's Atlas Corp. Interests in
the company was accepted by Odium as "firm
and final."
In announcing acceptance of the Hughes
offer (involving payment of more than $8,-
825,000 for some 929,000 shares of RKO stock)
Odium disclosed that since he had reached
a tentative agreement with Hughes some
days previously, a "higher cash offer" had
been received from other quarters. Odium
said he accepted the Hughes deal, however,
because of Hughes' "indicated plans with respect
to the future of the company" and because
Atlas Corp. will continue to hold a
block of RKO option warrants.
lai-ge
FULL STATEMENT BY ODLUM
Odium's complete statement:
"The tentative contract that Howard
Hughes and I entered into several days ago
permitted me to withdraw if within a period
of time I should obtain a higher cash
offer from others. I have received such an
offer but not withstanding this, I have today
made the purchase agreement with Howard
Hughes fii-m and final and the shares wUl
change hands within the next day or two."
(Odium's statement was issued May 11).
"I accepted the Hughes deal in preference
to the alternate bid having in mind Mr.
Hughes' indicated plans with respect to the
future of the company. These plans are important
to Atlas Corp. not only because it
has been the sponsor for RKO during more
than 12 years past, but also because Atlas
Corp. eliminated from the sale to Hughes,
and will continue to hold, a large block of
RKO option warrants and is therefore maintaining
a direct and heavy financial interest
in the company's progress and future."
Thus Hughes, multi-millionaire oil and
aviation tycoon and film producer, moves into
RKO with control of 24 per cent of the stock
in the company, finalizing negotiations which
See Goldwyn Renewal
Of RKO Release Deal
New York—Samuel Goldwyn Productions
is expected to renew its distribution
deal with RKO for another year within
the next few weeks. Goldwyn is reported
to have denied that he was planning to
drop his option to renew.
Reports that Goldwyn was planning a
merger with Robert Young's Pathe Industries
and Eagle Lion have been called
"improbable" by a Goldwyn representative.
Goldwyn's present commitment with
RKO expires June 30.
No Changes Reassured
Rathvon Statement
HOLLYWOOD — Definitely setting at
In
rest any and all rumors of widespread
changes in management and lower-strata
personnel because of the Hughes takeover,
President N. Peter Rathvon issued
a blunt and reassuring statement to RKO
employes.
"The protracted negotiations between
Mr. Hughes and Mr. Odium," Rathvon
said, "have given rise to many groundless
rumors and the circulation of much misinformation.
"I have had numerous conversations
with Mr. Hughes and we seem to be in
agreement in all matters of policy and
there is no reason to assume that it will
be otherwise in the future.
"Mr. Hughes has no hungry army of
relatives looking for your jobs, nor substitutes
waiting to step into the RKO
management.
"Mr. Hughes has many and wide business
interests and much experience in our
industry. I believe he will be a valuable
and constructive influence in our company.
"Now that the excitement is over, let's
all settle back to work."
Hughes himself issued no statement.
had been under way since last winter and
which, at one point, were reported definitely
dead.
Studio spokesmen reiterated—as reported
previously by BOXOFFICE—that to the
best of their present knowledge Hughes
planned to make no immediate changes in
personnel, operations or the company's commitments
to release the product of several
independent film-makers.
Dore Schary, vice-president and production
chief, had no comment to make on culmination
of the Hughes-Odium negotiations. As
disclosed earlier, his five-year contract has
approximately four more years to run and
contains a clause permitting him to bow out
should he so choose in the event of a chahge
of management.
HISTORY OF RKO CORP.
The present RKO Corp. stems from the
old Mutual Film Corp., organized in 1913 and
which, through various transactions, emerged
as FBO (Film Booking Offices of America).
This was merged in 1928 into the Keith-Albee-Orpheum
Corp., which in turn gave way
to the Radio-Keith-Orpheum Corp., taking
over control of KAO and the Orpheum theatre
circuit. A subsidiary, RKO Radio Pictures,
absorbed Pathe News and other Pathe
production assets in 1931 and two years later
RKO Corp. went into receivership.
A plan of reorganization was approved in
1939 whereby a new company, financed largely
through Odium's Atlas Corp., was formed
and over which Odium, until his deal with
Hughes, had exercised control.
Executive command at the studio itself has
run an equally chameleon-like course through
the years. In charge of production under
RKO's various previous corporate entities
have been William LeBaron, Merian C.
Cooper, Pandro S. Berman, Samuel Briskin,
Harry Edington, Joseph I. Breen, the late
Charles Koerner, President N. Peter Rathvon
and Schary.
Hughes, born in Houston, Tex., in 1905,
took over active control of his father's business,
the Hughes Tool Co., at the age of 20
and entered the film production field in 1927
with the organization of the Caddo Co. Subsequent
production endeavors included the
Sturges-Hughes company, in association with
Preston Sturges; California Pictures and
Howard Hughes Productions. He has produced
such top pictures as "Hell's Angels,"
"Scarface" and "The Outlaw."
No Du Mont Control
Raibourn Tells FCC
WASHINGTON—Paul Raibourn, vicepresident
of Paramount Pictures, insisted before
the FCC last week that Paramount does
not have control of Allen B. Du Mont Laboratories
and is willing to dispose of its 29 per
cent holdings for $10,000,000. Allen B. Du
Mont has offered $6,000,000. Paramount's
original investment in Du Mont cost $164,000.
The FCC has been holding up three applications
for television station licenses
sought by Paramount subsidiaries. The company
already holds two and has been seeking
its quota of five. The FCC contends that
Paramount's interest in Du Mont constitutes
control and that, therefore. Paramount
is not entitled to three more stations, as
Du Mont already has its full quota of five.
After the hearing the FCC took the case
under advisement.
Raibourn stressed that at no time has
Paramount attempted to dictate policies for
Du Mont, or to participate in its daily business
operations or conduct joint research.
Originally, he said, Paramount's holdings in
the television company came about through
the conversion to stock of a $108,000 loan
made to Du Mont for television equipment.
Paramount had wanted to experiment with
television, he added, and were having difficulty
getting equipment. Du Mont was the
only place they could get it.
Replying to questioning by Jack Blume.
FCC hearing officer, Raibourn asserted that
Paramount is not in control of operations at
Du Mont, that therefore the operations meet
Du Mont's needs and not Paramount's. He
said that Du Mont is interested in the manufacture
and broadcast of television and Paramount
feels that they are not yet certain
that such is the most advantageous use of
television.
Raibourn left the intimation that Paramount
Is vitally interested in theatre television
but wants to continue to experiment.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
9

—
An Advertisement to Realistic Advertisers:
BUY THE BIG ECONOMY SIZE
^^^^^^^^^^^" ^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^i^^^^^^^^^^^^^^m ^Bi^^^^^^^^^^
When you get $1.56 worth of absolute volue for euch doUor you
spend in trade puper odvertising to Americon exhibitors, your best
bet is obvious — und beyond ony sound orgument.
VOU actually get 56% greater coverage of American exhibitors—theatre owners,
manager, circuit executives — the people who do the buvinq — through BOX-
OFFICE, than through the next largest film trade paper. That applies likewise to
Canadian exhibitors.
Please note that we are not referring
in this to our huge lead in grand total net
paid circulation. This is the "meat" of that circulation for advertisers — the people
who make or influence the BUYING decisions for the motion picture theatres of the
United States and Canada.
Nobody who isn't important at theatres is included in these figures; neither is
anybody in Timbuctoo or any other foreign land.
Only by buying a combination of several other film trade papers can you get
anything like the exhibitor readership coverage of BOXOFFICE alone — and at a
cost of at least double the rate per thousand! Remember, too, that many of BOX-
OFFICE's exhibitor-subscribers nowadays read no other film
trade paper]
Quick Facts on the Status of BOXOFFICE:
• Latest net paid circulation is over 23.000—leading its
nearest competitor in U.S.A. and Canada (either or
both) by over 56%. On exhibitor executive coverage
alone the lead is likewise over 56%.
• BOXOFFICE carries a greater grand total of national
advertising than does any other Kim trade paper.
• Exclusive advertising and total volume placed
through advertising agencies is for greater in BOX-
OFFICE than in any other film trade paper.
* The advertising cost per thousand paid subscribers
(in any or all of the subscriber classifications) is
far lower than in any other film trade paper.
• BOXOFFICE provides virtually complete coverage
just about everybody who is "anybody" in this industry
reads it regularly.
Wherever There s a Theatre — There s a BOXOFFICE/
10 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

Ia.-Neb. Allied Unit
Elects Myrick Head
DES MOINES— A. C. Myrick of the Lake
Park was named president of the AUied Independent
Theatre Owners of Iowa and Nebraska
at the conclusion of a two-day meeting
here. May 11. Phil Lannon of West Point,
Neb., was named vice-president and Tim
Evans. Clinton, secretary-treasurer.
Leo Wolcott of Eldora again was chosen to
serve as chairman of the board. The officers
for the 1948-49 term were selected by a
21 -member board of directors, which was appointed
earlier by a nominating committee.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD
The board consists of the following exhibitors:
Walt Bradley. Nealy, Neb.; Elmer
Huhnke, Omaha; Carl Mansfield, Schulyer,
Neb.; Myrick; Bob Hutte, Osceola; J. H.
Watts. Osage: Howard Brookings, Oakland;
Elmer Tilton. Seward: George March. Vermillion.
S. D.; Evans; Charles Niles. Anamosa;
Wolcott; Harold E. Field of the Pioneer
circuit, Minneapolis; Lannon; Arnold Neyerdircks,
Pender. Neb.: Mrs. Lorinna Houson,
Woodward; Mi's. Thelma Parsons, Keota;
William Horstman. Odeboldt: Henry Rehfield.
Bloomfield; Werner Grossman. Nevada,
and Earl Kerr of the Kerr circuit.
Much of the discussion at the convention's
business meetings was devoted to the recent
supreme court decision in the government
antitrust suit against the industry. Abram
F. Myers, Washington. D. C, general counsel,
was bombarded with questions, concerning
the effects of the decision by convention delegates.
Questions, in general, dealt with the matter
of being able to choose pictures without
"bribes," and that of clearance.
In addition to Myers, other speakers at the
conclave were Sidney Samuelson, Philadelphia,
Pa., chairman of the Allied Caravan;
William Ainsworth, Fond du Lac, Wis., president;
H. M. Richey, assistant to the general
sales manager of MGM; David Palfreyman
of the Eric Johnston office; Myron Blank of
Tri-States and Marie Frye of Central States.
Featured speaker at the final banquet, May
11, was Iowa Gov. Robert D. Blue.
BROOKINGS SOUNDS WARNING
A warning was sounded to the more than
150 exhibitors present by Brookings, retiring
president of the group. A return to "oldfashioned
showmanship" is needed. Brookings
cautioned, if "we are to keep our place
in
the amusement world.
"It may be true the gi'avy train is over,
but if we can get back to the actual selling
of entertainment by every means at our disposal
we can hold our position " he declared.
"Some of Hollywood's bigwigs should put
more money into the production of films and
less into personal salaries." Samuelson told
delegates. "In the motion picture business,
many of the officers and company directors
don't get paid what they are worth," he said.
"Instead, they are paid on the basis of what
they can extract from the company." Samuelson
emphasized he wasn't ci'iticizing salaries
of the stars, but only of some officers and
directors.
Richey, in his talk, said it is the duty of
independent exhibitors to "sell the American
public on the fact that the movie industry
is the biggest entertainment value in the
world."
Non-Profit Buying Service
Set Up by Kas.-Mo. Allied
KANSAS CITY—Devoting most of its proceedings
to problems besetting an infant organization.
Allied Theatre Owners of Kansas
and Missouri at its first annual convention
set up a nonprofit buying and booking service
for its members. Definite settlement of film
transportation charges, which this unit has
been trying to reduce for the last two months,
was postponed another 30 days.
Abram F. Myers, chairman of the board
and general counsel for Allied States Ass'n,
explained the supreme com't's recent decision
and told the group that the proposed .system
of selecting and buying pictm'es "is what
Allied has been striving for aU these years."
Arbitration and block licensing are now voluntary,
he continued, "and now it's the exhibitor
who is protected." "The future of
exhibition rests in the hands of the independent
exhibitor." he concluded.
Other national Allied leaders attending the
Wednesday and Thursday sessions were William
Ainsworth. president of Allied States
Ass'n; Edward Lachman of New Jersey; Sidney
Samuelson of the eastern Pennsylvania
unit, and Trueman Rembusch of Indiana.
Col. H. A. Cole of Texas Allied, also slated
to appear, was absent from the convention
floor due to a fractiu'ed wrist suffered the
previous day in Des Moines.
O. F. Sullivan of Wichita was re-elected
president of the unit and Larry Larsen of
f*xm
Spotted during the Kansas-Missouri
Allied convention were (top photol, O.
F. Sullivan, president of the unit, and his
wife, and (bottom) Sidney Samuelson of
Allied Independent Theatre Owners of
Eastern Pennsylvania and his wife.
Webb City, Mo., and V. R. Stamm of Kansas
City continue as vice-president and secretary-treasurer
respectively.
Under the constitution and bylaws adopted
in Thursday's sessions, a board of 16 directors,
eight each from Kansas and Missouri,
also was elected. Those Kansans chosen to
serve three-year terms are P. L. Norton of
Atwood and Cle Bratton. Council Grove.
Those to serve two years are O. C. Alexander
of Kiowa; A. K. Smith, Johnson, and William
Blair, Osborne. Don Phillips of Colby,
O. F. Sullivan, and Ben Adams of El Dorado
were chosen for one year each.
SULLIVAN TO DENVER
Directors from Missouri to serve a threeyear
tenure are Louis Sosna of Moberly and
J. T. Ghosen of Sedalia. A. E. Jarboe of Cameron;
Jay Means, Kansas City, and A. J.
Simmons, Lamar, were named to serve two
years each. Stamm, Dan Payton of Lamar,
and Larsen are to serve for one year.
The buying and booking service will be open
to any member of Allied wishing to participate.
The service is to be set up under the
direction of Jack Stewart, general manager,
and the executive committee of the board
of directors. A $10 fee for each participating
theatre will be charged.
In an effort to conclude a reduction in film
transportation rates with Exhibitors Film Delivery
here, Sullivan announced he would
attend a meeting in Denver Saturday and
Sunday with national Allied members and
James P. Clark, president of National Film
Carriers. It was hoped that Earl Jameson
of the local trucking firm would also be present.
The convention adopted a resolution
to extend the time of the transportation committee
for 30 days and empowered it to take
"all actions necessary to secure relief."
INDUSTRY PIONEERS HONORED
Following adjournment Thursday evening,
nine industry members having over 40 years
of service were honored at a Pioneers banquet
and were presented copper plaques from Alhed.
Those honored were John A. Schnack, owner
of the Electric in Larned. Kas.. who has
been an exhibitor since 1902; his manager,
M. E. Bybee. who has been in the industry
since 1906: R. R. Winship. Majestic. Phillipsburg,
Kas.. 1905; A. E. Jarboe. Ritz. Cameron,
Mo.. 1906; Larry Larsen. Civic and Jimior,
Webb City. Mo.. 1906; Clyde H. Badger. Stebbins
Theatre Equipment Co.. Kansas City,
1906; Ralph A. Morrow. Universal city salesman,
Kansas City, 1906. and Mr. and Mrs.
Sam Blair of Belleville. Kas.
Henderson M. Richey. exhibitor relations
official of MGM and the only distribution
official to address the group, said that in the
present economic picture "exhibitors have to
sell motion pictures for their share of the
amusement dollar." Security, he said, comes
only when the motion picture industry' can
convince the public that it misses something
worthwhile when it doesn't see a picture.
"We haven't sold ourselves. In the tremendous
problems we've had together, the public
has begun to notice our slip is showing."
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948
11

At the Hunting Room of the Hotel Astor, N. Y.
and wherever film men meet, they're saying:
THE
HAS
PICTURES!
What a banquet! Rea^
the Menu on fiext pag!

^W"
J^eek after week
yi Spring and Summer long!
3ne tasty dish after another!
,
.
;^rank Capra s ''State of the Union". .
V feast from coast-to- coast!
'homecoming" . . .Wow!
3reaking every M-G-M record in the
entire history of the Capitol, N. Y.
Then ''Summer Holiday" {TechnkoM
|Vnd "Big City!' Then "The Pirate" {Techmoi^
'3n An Island With You" {Technicolor)
irving Berlin's "Easter Parade" {Technicolor)
t K Date With Judy" (Tecimkoior)
^t'hen "Julia Misbehaves"! Followed by
\ Southern Yankee"
Then "Three Musketeers" {Technicolor)
I
\.nd more M-G-M Big (Ones! /
iverybody's saying it:
iiappy days
\re here: again, thanks to—
i^Jaturally-"yiTAMIN M-G-M"!
J
i-C^ ^

a
DeMille Asks Congress
For 'Right to Work'
WASHINGTON — CecU B. DeMille, fUm
producer, called on Congress this week to
sefeguard production and through it, national
defense, by federal
guarantee of the "right to
work."
Appearing before the
house labor committee as
its first witness in the
hearings on right-to-work
legislation, DeMille, who in
1944 had to give up his
radio job as a result of suspension
by the American
Federation of Radio Artists
for refusal to pay a one dollar
political assessment, asserted
that "protection of
this right is Just as vital
to the national defense as
universal training or the
draft."
After three years of continuous
crusading for "freedom
CecU B. DeMille to work," DeMille par-
ried-and-thrust at 18 dif^
ferent members of the committee sitting
simultaneously, who sometimes were hostile,
sometimes friendly with their myriads of
questions.
SAYS DISPUTES ARE PETTY
Spotlighting the events of the now 30-
months-old Hollywood labor jm-isdictlonal
dispute, the producer declared that "things
have become so bad that disputes arise and
workers are laid off over such petty things as
which imion may remove a bale of alfalfa
from a movie set, or who may make up an
actor below his Adam's apple."
Pointing out that the importance ol the
right to work is as basic as the right to life,
"for it is by work that men live," DeMille
quoted the three decisions of the supreme
court which he said firmly established that
the right to work is a constitutional right—
part of the personal hberty protected by the
fifth and 14th amendments.
"Yet," he asserted, "in practice, the right
to work has been violated in a multitude of
instances, of which my own case is only one.
That the courts have never been given a
clear mandate by federal law to protect the
right to work absolutely and at all events
may be one reason," he said, that a "clearly
established constitutional right has been and
can be challenged with Impunity."
KEARNS QUERIES DeMILLE
Carroll D. Kearns (R. La.), who was chairman
of the sub-committee investigating the
Hollywood jurisdictional dispute, queried
DeMille on whether or not he thought the
present labor laws, if properly enforced,
would not be adequate to guarantee the Individual
the right to work. Kearns added the
cryptic exclamation, "Why doesn't the government
take over the unions for a change,
and see what they can do?"
There have been so many instances, was
DeMlUe's reply, where the Taft-Hartley act
and other labor laws have been avoided. As
an instance of this, he said that Instead of
removing a worker from a union, which the
Taft-Hartley act prohibits, the worker was
merely not called to work.
Comparing the lack of a statutory statement
of the right to work with the present
legal protection given the right to strike,
DeMille declared that the "silence of the
law has helped to produce an entirely unwarrantable
interpretation" of the latter,
which he described as a valuable and necessary
right. "The right to strike," he continued,
"has been stretched to mean not only
the right of workers to quit in concert, but to
prevent their- fellow-workers, who want to
work, from going to their jobs, by assault,
threats, intimidation, and abuse."
Asked if the various states did not already
have laws against violence in labor disputes,
DeMille answered that such laws were on the
books in some states, but that "heads are
being broken daily." He referred to a photograph
from the Los Angeles Times of March
5, showing massed pickets outside a Los
Angeles garment factory, with an official
court order in the gutter at their feet.
FOR WORKERS' PROTECTION
Representative Lesinski (D., Mich.) asked
if such a law would not put a weapon in
the hands of unscrupulous employers vrtiereby
they could break strikes and lower wages.
Such was not his intention, answered DeMille.
"Both management and labor are playing a
game for the control of industi-y," he said.
"I am asking that Congress give relief to
the millions of workers, both union and nonunion,
who need protection so that they
won't be shuffled around like bags of beans
between management and labor."
In his testimony, DeMille recalled that a
right-to-work law had helped thwart Communist
plans for taking over France last
November when, after a wave of Commimistinspired
strikes and with a general strike
in the offing, Premier Schuman proclaimed
in the national assembly that attacks on the
right to work would not be permitted, and
that acts of sabotage would be punished.
Summing up. DeMille called for a federal
"right to work" law backed up by provisions
for stiff criminal penalties for offenders and
the right to collect civil damages, and asserted
that precedent for such a law can be found
in the already existmg federal statute which
provides fines and a prison term for persons
who conspire to injure in any manner the
rights secured to a citizen by the Constitution,
or laws of the United States.
ITOA Pledges Support
Of Youth Month Drive
NEW YORK — The Independent Theatre
Owners of New York has pledged support to
the Youth Month activity which is being
spearheaded by Theatre Owners of America.
In a message to Charles Skouras, national
chairman for Youth Month, Han-y Brandt,
ITOA president, said: "Activities of this sort
which are designed to place the theatre business
in its proper relationship to worthy
public projects deserve the support of every
theatreman regardless of association or affiliation."
'Monopoly Finished/
Samuelson Declares
PHILADELPHIA — "Monopoly is finished,"
writes Sidney E. Samuelson, general
manager of eastern Pennsylvania
Allied, in a bulletin to members.
"On the question of divorcement, there
is more work to be done in the New York
district court. But the indications are
plain that the supreme court thinks that
divorcement is the ultimate solution to
the monopoly problem in the motion picture
business.
"Monopolistic trade practices which enabled
the distributors and the chain theatres
to maintain a tight grip on this
industry are smashed by the supreme
court decisions. Competitive bidding was
eliminated."
Samuelson mentions the ban on pricefixing,
compulsoi-y block booking, discrimination,
requirement of proof for reasonable
clearance and other features of
the decree.
"For years," he continues, "Allied has
battled the motion picture trust. And
now the victory has been won. Only
minor mopping-up operations and policing
by independent exhibitor organizations
remain. The future of this industry,
so far as exhibition is concerned, will belong
to the independent theatre man.
"Here is a word of warning for the
smart fellows: Allied of Eastern Pennsylvania
will see to it that aU illegal practices
and violations of the decision by
any distributor or chain theatre in oiuterritory
will be promptly called to the
attention of the proper authorities, with
a request to proceed vigorously against
the lawbreakers. And wherever necessary,
Allied will advise its members to proceed
individually against those distributors
or chain theatres which have violated
the law in the past or which attempt
to violate it in the future. As a
completely independent exhibitor association,
without obligation to any other part
of the motion picture industry. Allied
stands ready at this important juncture
to serve its members, and its members
only."
Special 'Rope' Trailer
Postponed Until June
NEW YORK—Shooting in New York of
the special trailer for "Rope," Transatlantic
Pictures Technicolor film for Warner release,
has been postponed until June. Alfred Hitchcock,
director, will be unable to return from
England before then. He is working on the
screenplay for "Under Capricorn," second production
for the comipany. The trailer will be
in Technicolor and will star James Stewart.
Equipment Demonstration
CHICAGO—Herb Goldberg, representative
of the California Popcorn Equipment Co.,
will present the company's Hollywood Servemaster
at the Stevens hotel here May 18, 19.
Goldberg will leave for the east following the
showing to Introduce the equipment in other
territories.
14 BOXOFFICE : : May 15, 1948

. . Let
PCA Report Reveals
Gain in Scripts
WASHINGTON—An increase of 31.1 per
cent over the 928 motion picture scripts reviewed
in 1946. showed up in the annual
report of Joseph I. Breen, director of the
Production Code Administration of the
MPAA, according to Eric Johnston, president.
A total of 1,217 feature-length scripts were
reviewed in 1947.
"Such a startUngly large increase in the
number of scripts submitted," Breen said,
"would seem to indicate the forthcoming production
of a great number of pictures during
1948."
Original screen stories again foiTned the
basis of the bulk of motion pictures, according
to the report. During last year, 57.7
per cent of the featuie pictures were based
on original stories. This source in 1946 accounted
for 60.9 per cent of the feature pictures.
PASS 404 FEATURES IN 1947
PCA during 1947 issued its certificate of
approval to 404 feature-length productions,
a 4.9 per cent decrease from the total approved
in 1946, the report continued. Short
subjects reviewed and approved last year
amounted to 544, compared with 459 in 1946.
The combined total of short subjects and
feature pictures was 948 in 1947, compared
with 974 in the previous year.
Published novels, the report declared, were
the origin of 21.5 per cent films reviewed
in 1947, compared with 15.3 per cent in 1946.
Stage plays accounted for 4.2 per cent of
1947's feature output, while in the previous
year 5.2 per cent stenuned from the legitimate
theatre. A variety of other sources accounted
for the balance of the pictures reviewed.
PCA's report to Johnston also showed that
72 scripts and treatments were rejected when
first submitted for consideration, but were
later revised and subsequently approved for
production.
Feature pictures submitted to PCA during
1947 which could not be approved in their
original form amoimted to 59, all of which
were revised or edited and subsequently approved.
In 1946, this figure was 82.
REJECT 65 SCRIPTS LAST YEAR
A total of 65 scripts, novels, plays and
short stories were rejected by PCA dui-ing
1947 and had not been resubmitted by the
end of the year.
A total of 38 foreign feature films were approved
by PCA during 1947, the report said.
The Production Code was amended dm'ing
the year to include a special limitation on
crime pictures, the report added. The new
regulation reads: "No picture shall be approved
dealing with the life of a notorious
criminal of current or recent times which
uses the name, nickname of alias of such
notorious criminal in the film, nor shall a
picture be approved if based upon the life
of such a notorious criminal unless the
character shown in the film be punished for
crimes shown in the fUm as committed by
him."
'Outlaw' Big in Brussels
NEW YORK—Howard Hughes' "The Outlaw"
opened with a strong first week gross
of 700,200 Belgian francs at the Eldorado
Theatre, Brussels, according to UA. This is
approximately $15,960 in U.S. dollars.
Pickets Clash in New York
Over Iron Curtain' Run
NEW YORK—Mounted policemen broke up
a crowd of about 2,000 pickets in front of
the Roxy Theatre here at 11:15 Tuesday
night. May 11. The pickets attempted to
stage a mass demonstration against the showing
of "The Iron Curtain." The picture
opened Wednesday at the Roxy and 400 spots
throughout the country. The pickets w-ere led
to believe a special screening would be held
at the Roxy Tuesday night.
There were scattered fist fights involving
the police, anti-"Curtain" pickets and groups
of Catholic War Veterans who had been waiting
near the theatre since 7 p. m. to picket
the pickets. Four people were arrested. "Curtain"
deals with the expose of a Soviet spy
rmg in Canada.
Spyros P. Skouras, 20th-Fox president, said
the pickets "attacked the basic American
right of free expression." He made it clear
that the picture would continue playing and
that 20th-Fox was more interested in producing
a film "of deep interest to the public"
than a political documentary.
Skouras said: "Those opposed to the free
press, the free radio and the free screen,
which opposition has been characteristic of
Communists and fellow travelers, manifested
their attitude in the effort to suppress this
pictiu-e as long as a year ago . me
point out that the sponsors of Moscow have
never hesitated to criticize bitterly comments
that are critical of the Kremlin, while at the
same time Moscow has released speeches, articles
and plays in Russia which are derogatory
to the U.S."
When the picture opened at 10:30 a. m.
Wednesday morning, no pickets had appeared,
but representatives of the metropolitan dailies
and police were on hand. Waiting patrons
had formed a line from Seventh avenue east
to Sixth avenue along 50th street.
The plan to picket the theatre had been
announced in the Daily Worker, Communist
party organ. The demonstration was staged
by the New York Com:nittee Against War
Propaganda, according to signs carried by
the pickets. This same organization earlier
had threatened to boycott the Roxy for a
year if "Curtain" opened there. The committee
claims its members include representatives
of churches and labor unions.
The pickets carried bundles of leaflets denouncing
the picture as war propaganda with
the head: "Don't buy this ticket to war."
Exhibitors planning to show the picture
have been warned that they may be leaving
themselves open to damage suits resulting
from the "unauthorized" use of music by four
Soviet composers in the picture. This warning
was issued during the week by Charles
Recht, attorney for the Russian consulate
here.
Recht obtained an order against 20th-Fox
in special term of the supreme court early
in the week requiring the film company to
show why it should 'not be restrained from
using the music.
Televise 'Curtain' Trailer
Over Five NBC Stations
NEW YORK—Five NBC television network
stations carried a special two-and-a-halfminute
trailer on "The Iron Curtain" Tuesday
night (111, one day prior to the opening
of the film in 400 spots. Each station broadcast
the trailer twice, before the Movietone
Television newsreel and prior to the nightly
sports event program. The broadcasts covered
an eight-state area. New York, New
Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia,
Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Delaware.
Stations carrying the trailer were WNBT.
New York; WPTZ. Philadelphia; WNBW,
Washington; WBAL, Baltimore, and WRGB,
Schenectady.
Chicago Group Protests
'Iron Curtain' Showing
CHICAGO—The motion picture, "The Iron
Curtain," which opened at the B&K Chicago
Theatre, Thursday, May 13, has been denoimced
as "war propaganda" by a group of
43 ministers, professors, labor leaders and
civic
leaders.
Theatre in Ohio Town Is Kept Open,
Despite Flooded Area Conditions
CINCINNATI—The story
has reached
Filnu-ow of how Hugh T. Gooding kept
open the Ripley Theatre in Ripley, Ohio,
during the recent flood despite the fact
that the building was surrounded by
three feet of water and patrons had to
come by rowboat.
The town was under water from April
13 to April 24. Sixty-two of the 71 businesses
in town were closed and 94 residences
were flooded.
Gooding decided that the town needed
its theatre at a time like this.
"Surely it is the duty of a theatre to
run whenever possible and whenever the
people who attend regularly need it, even
though, under the circumstances, only a
percentage are able to attend," said
Gooding. "Those who came had no other
place to gather for relaxation, entertainment
and enjoyment."
About 30 per cent came by boat, landing
on the steps of the theatre. The rest
came over ramps. The state highway department
had erected a bridge of planks
and concrete blocks to permit access to
the Red Cross service center near the
theatre and Gooding put up a "feeder"
bridge leading off of this walkway to his
theatre.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 15

m,
x^>v.
tN THE GREAT TRADITION \
•V
V
^
:%*'' 4'i,'i-»l
The
the
strangi
;:»r-y'ji»f*i:j..i£»"
sver
'U!
^
?*^>:f-
I)
4»*
\ar
y^
W
i-t*
?. i.
he Enterprise Studios
present
FOUR FACES WEST

I,^F
GREATweSTeRNS...AND G R EAT P ROt IT S •
starring
Frances
Charles
McCREADEEBICKFORD...
with Joseph Calleia .nd William Conrad • screenplay by Graham Baker and Teddi Sherman
Directed by ALFRED GREEN
A HARRY SHERMAN PRODUCTION

^«^
To Outline Rank Product
At Four EL Meetings
NEW YORK—William J. Heineman. Eagle
Lion vice-president in charge of distribution,
who has just returned
from a trip to England
to look at the J. Arthur
Rank pictures EL will
release in America
during the next year,
will outline this product
to branch managers
and salesmen at
a series of four meetings
to be held during
May.
Heineman and Max
Youngstein, vice-president
in charge of ad-
W. J. Heineman
vertising, publicity and exploitation, who accompanied
him on the trip to London, was
scheduled to preside at the first meeting in
New York Saturday and Sunday (15-16), attended
by representatives of the ten eastern
branches. The second meeting is scheduled
for Chicago May 22 with representatives of
the nine branches in that area attending.
The third meeting will be held in New Orleans
May 24 with representatives of the six
southern branches on hand. The final meeting
will be held in San Francisco May 29
with representatives of the six branches in
that area present. Youngstein and Jack C.
Schlaifer, assistant to Heineman, will attend
all meetings.
ELATED OVER 'OLIVER TWIST'
While in London, Heineman and Youngstein
held meetings with the advertising, publicity
and exploitation staff of the Rank Organization
to discuss a greater exchange of
publicity material between the two organizations
and to plan long-range campaigns
for the British pictures in the U.S. Heineman
is enthusiastic about "Oliver Twist," first of
the new group of 12 for EL release, which
he predicts will roll up an American gross
equal to any of the EL Hollywood product.
"Twist," which will be released here in July
or August, will have a $250,000 advertising
budget, Heineman said.
Heineman said that the British have recently
made great strides in picture-making
with their producers "showing a keener interest
in the U.S. market." In addition to
"Oliver Twist," Heineman and Youngstein
saw "Miranda" and "Broken Journey," as
well as rough-cuts or parts of "Red Shoes,"
"Scott of the Antarctic" and "The Olympic
Games." The build-up scenes of the American
contestants in the "Games" film have
already been made and the first print of the
completed picture will be shipped to America
within three weeks after the close of the
Games August 14. It will have a September
release in America. The buildup scenes of
the Latin-American contestants have also
been filmed and prints with Portuguese and
Spanish narration will be shipped to South
and Central America direct from London.
Although Eagle Lion expects to release the
Rank product at the rate of one a month, the
company will release an equal number of
top Hollywood pictures during the same 12-
month period, Heineman said. Yoimgstein
has put in a request to the Rank Organization
for the services of John Mills, Stewart
Granger, Kathleen Ryan and David Farrar
for publicity buildups on American exploitation
tours.
Eagle Lion will have its own distribution
setup in Latin America completed by July,
according to Sam Seidelman, foreign distribution
head. Offices have already been
opened in Mexico. Argentine, Chile and Puerto
Rico and offices in Cuba, Panama, Peru and
Brazil will be opened in the next few months.
The company will have sub-distributors in
Colombia, Venezuela and Trinidad, Seidelman
said.
Leonard Gaynor to Handle
'Beyond Glory' Campaign
NEW YORK—Leonard Gaynor has been
engaged by Paramount for a special promotion
campaign on "Beyond Glory," which will
be released in July. Gaynor recently organized
his own company for the production of
16mm educational, commercial and television
films. Scripts are now being prepared for
fall
production.
Republic to Release
Impossible Series
NEW YORK—Impossible Pictures, Inc., will
produce a series of Trucolor cartoons for release
by Republic beginning July 1, 1948.
The series, which will stress camera animation
rather than figure animation, will be
called "Jerky Journeys," or authentic travelogs
about imaginary places, subtitled "Little
known visits to lesser known places by completely
unknown people."
Leonard Levinson, president of Impossible
Pictures, and his partner and vice-president,
David Flexer, will produce and deliver four
cartoons in the first year of the contract.
They are: "Romantic Rumbolia, the Seat
of the Rhumba," which has already been
completed, and "Glamorous Hanky-Panky,"
"Jingle, Jangle Jungle" and "The Three Minnies,
Sota, Tonka and Ha-Ha." Frank Nelson,
radio actor featured on the Jack Benny
show, has been signed to do the narration.
Levinson collaborated with Don Quinn for
three years in writing the "Fibber McGee and
Molly" airways show and created the "Great
Gildersleeve" show. Flexer owns theatres in
Tennessee, Delaware and Mississippi as well
as a number of drive-in theatres. They incorporated
Impossible Pictures July 6, 1947,
after aU of their friends and business
acquaintances told them they were attempting
the impossible. After Herbert J. Yates,
president of Republic, and James R. Grainger
saw "Romantic Rumbolia," in New York,
Levinson traveled 3,000 miles from North
Hollywood to meet Yates.
Allied Artists to Hike Output to 13
During Coming Year, Says Broidy
HOLLYWOOD—Second industi-y figure to
cite increased production as a remedy for
the film world's current "depressed condition"
is Steve Broidy, president of Monogram
and Allied Artists, who announced the AA
The mighty Babe Ruth himself paid a
visit to the set of "The Babe Ruth Story"
to watch Producer-Director Roy Del Ruth
film scenes from his career for the Monogram-AUied
Artists production. Here
William Bendix (left), impersonatng
Ruth in the film, shows him the replica
of the .saloon where Ruth as a youth
worked for his father. The sports idol was
accompanied in his tour by Del Ruth and
(right) Steve Broidy, Monogram-AA
president.
schedule for the next 12 months will total 13
pictures at an approximate budget of $13,-
000,000. This represents an increase of $3,000,-
000 over the original budget estimate, Broidy
said.
The 13-picture slate almost doubles AA's
output in its first year of operation. When
seven features were distributed under that
label.
"The best way to meet a depression is with
expansion," Broidy said in disclosing AA's
plans for the coming 12 months. "Instead of
talking about a depressed condition within
the film industry and doing nothing about it,
we are increasing our production."
His announcement came shortly after Jack
L. Warner, vice-president and production
chief at Warner Bros., had called upon filmmakers
to increase the output of celluloid
as a means of combating widespread unemployment
within the industry and to satisfy
a worldwide demand for film entertainment.
Broidy declared Monogram Pictures, AA's
parent comipany, will adhere to a 41-picture
schedule in the coming 12-month period, a
pace equal to its last year's efforts.
The AA output for the ensuing year will
include Roy Del Ruth's "The Babe Ruth
Story," "Red Light " "The Last of the Badmen,"
"Gun Crazy," "When a Man's a Man,"
"North of Nome," "Little Shepherd of Kingdom
Come," "Stampede," "Land of the Sky
Blue Waters," "Strike It Rich" and two to
be made in England, "The Highwayman" and
"The Maze."
18
BOXOFTICE
:
: May
15, 1948

A comedy feature for the
l^A
weekend which costs you
nothing!
because • • •
I
/t It's got the quality to go
with any feature you play!
Gorgeous Cinecolor and name
stars!
4C0 It's 50 minutes long. Gives
you time for an additional
show and that wonderful additional
weekend revenue!
^n It's what happened at
Loew's State, New York, and
other Loew and Warner
situations! (50 of 'em to date!)
700 m'lnuies of Great Cinecolor Comedy!
You'll hove no trouble with this "TROUBLE" from U« A.

—
I
%e^

Mich. Allied to Sell
Public on Theatres
DETROIT—All unprecedented program for
selling the exhibition industry to community
leaders is being undertaken by Allied Theatres
of Michigan.
Allied has divided the state into 19 areas
and will go into each at least thi-ee times a
year to conduct a meeting jointly with some
service club. Allied will provide a speaker
for each meeting to lay before the clubs the
story of the theatre operator. Separate meetings
for independent exhibitors will follow
each of the sessions.
The program will be launched May 18 at
a meeting with the Optimist club of Battle
Creek in the Post Tavern in Battle Creek.
Local exhibitors will make the club tieups in
each city.
The man behind the program is Charles
W. Snyder, former Detroit police inspector
who recently became executive secretary of
Allied.
"This program has a two-fold purpose," he
said. "First, to acquaint the business man
with the importance of the theatre in his
town, and second, to bring forcefully to the
minds of nonmember exhibitors wliat Allied
is attempting to do in their interests.
"There have been numerous public relations
campaigns put on by the distributors,
in which they have made predictions that
ihey were started primarily to benefit the
exhibitor, but by and large they have ended
by benefiting the stars and their pictures.
This plan has nothing in common with that
idea, but has as its objective the purpose of
educating the theatregoing public with the
operation of the theatre."
For organizational purposes Synder has
divided the state into six districts and each
district into three or four divisions, a total
of 19 divisions.
Majors Are Cooperating
With TOA 16mm Group
NEW YORK—Myron N, Blank, chairman
of the TOA ISmm committee, reports that
he is "pleased at the cooperation from distribution
companies" in TOA's attempt to
eliminate unfair comipetition in the 16min
field.
Blank said that William Scully, general
sales manager of Universal-International, assured
him that he has made a study of
numerous examples of unfair competition
by hotels and other establishments. Universal,
which is the parent company of United
World, is reinstating former rules so that
any 16mm account will, in the future, be
approved in advance by the Universal branch
manager, according to Scully. The other
larger 16mm distributors, 20th-Pox and RKO,
had previously amiounced policies designed
to keep unfair 16mm competition at a minimum.
Blank said.
French Papers Honor Flynn
NEW YORK—Errol Flynn has been named
the best foreign male actor for 1947 in two
separate polls conducted by Cinemonde,
French fan magazine, and Le Film Francais,
tradepaper.
Herman Levy Testimonial Dinner Guest
With State and Film Leaders Present
Herman Levy (center) is Hanked at the left by Raymond Clark, New Haven postoffice,
and Morey Goldstein, Monogram sales manager, and at the right by H. M.
Richey of MGM and Frank Durso, New Haven.
NEW HAVEN—Herman Levy was the victim
of a testimonial dimier at the Race
Brook Country club May 6.
Levy, for the benefit of the uninformed, is
general counsel for the TOA, counsel for the
Connecticut MPTO, and chairman of the
sewer committee of the Town of Hamden.
Light mention was made of his legal responsibilities,
but some of the speakers went
into detaU on his civic activities.
It developed that Levy is negotiating a
new contract to maintain connections of
Hamden pipes with those of New Haven.
The mayor of New Haven, who was present,
said he wasn't going to take any more of that
from Hamden.
The party drew an imposing array of state
and city officials, exhibitor leaders and lawyers.
Gov. James C. Shannon, Lieut Gov.
Robert Parsons, all the heads of state departments,
12 judges. Mayor William C. Celentano.
New Haven, and many city officials,
and leaders of the legislature. John T. Dunn
jr., liquor control commissioner, also was
present, but not in his official
capacity.
After all the guests had been seated Levy
strode in and advanced to the dais. There
was no seat for him there, and nobody would
move over until he had paid 10 bucks to
"Tiny" Jacocks, the toastmaster, for a ticket.
Then Herman had to go out and bring in his
own folding chair.
On the mantelpiece over the big stone
fireplace was a seven-foot pictui-e of a Cadillac.
All, including Levy, admired it. One of
the speakers explained that if Levy would
take this "coupon" down to the Cadillac
dealer—with 3,500 bucks^he could get the
car. Later there were other presentations,
including a silver tea set, and a photograpn
of Levy taken before he developed a high
forehead. The photograph was enclosed in
an easel frame designed by an artist who
at that time was employed by the Standard
Sanitary Corp.
Judge Abram S. Bordon of the common
pleas court told how Levy once opened a case
before him by asking his client his name.
The client turned toward the bench and
said; "Judge, I gotta schnook for a lawyer.
Here we ride all the way up from New York
and he asks me my name."
There was more of the same. In some states
the guest of honor at a testimonial dirmer
can wind up with his chest expanded, but
not in Connecticut.
Some film men who had been attending
the Boston Allied meet stopped off on their
way back, and a delegation went up to New
Haven from New York in a special Pullman.
Among those present were Si Fabian, Ted
Gamble, Bob Coyne, Ai'thur Lockwood, Lou
Gordon, Harold Esken, Ed Cuddy, Hi Fine,
B. E. Hoffman, Ed Pay, Harry Browning,
Morey Goldstein, George Dembow, H. M.
Richey, Dave Palfreyman, Louis Phillips, Edward
A. Sargoy, Joseph L. Stein, Sam Shain,
J. M. Jerauld and Thomas F. Friday.
Division Heads to Fete Andy Smith Jr.
NEW YORK—Andy W. Smith jr.,
20th-Fox
general sales manager, wUl be honored at a
testimonial dinner to be given by the five
division sales managers at the Waldorf-
Astoria hotel May 28. The five division chiefs
are: Herman Wobber. western: Harry Ballance,
southern: Jack Lorentz, central, and
Raymond E. Moon, eastern, and Arthur Silverstone,
Canadian.
The dinner will mark the exact date, one
year ago, when Smith was first appointed to
head the domestic distribution department
and will launch the Andy Smith Armiversary
month drive.
Spyros P. Skouras, president, will act as
toastmaster and 20th-Fox officials, department
head and the entire home office sales
force wiU also attend the dinner. During the
evening the division heads will make reports
directly to Skouras on the Anniversary month
activities. After conferring w'ith Skouras,
Smith and W. C. Gehring at the home office
on forthcoming sales plans for the year, the
five division managers w^ll return to their
respective offices May 29 to launch the drive.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 21

Of^g oat7^ neu/s
FIRST REVIEWS FLASH THE WORD TH
NEW LOOK MUSICAL ISt
tiTCSlt\''tdiKlI\Q'
•
'^nd earmarked for the niftiest
,
grosses.
Should solve any ticket-buyer's entertainment problem. A natural parlay: Crosby,
Strauss Melodies, comedy and gorgeous color. Multiple functions of Brackett & Wilder
;
have given film an infectious quality, zing dialogue, zippy pace."—VARIETY
|
L3VISn^ quality fare. It's going to kick its heels into :
the high brackets where the season's big boxoffice money will be found. The stufT of sock
;
audience satisfaction. Strewn with gags and the telling is sheer delight."— FILM DAILY
L'lTld'Cni* Will bring joy to the boxoffice and even
more to those who go to see it. One of the most delightful in many a year. Patrons will
chuckle throughout its whole unreeling. Brackett & Wilder get better with every picture
and this is their crowning- creation. "-HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
L3ll2nl3Cl6n yarn in
which blueblood and snobbishness
are subjected to as thorough a ribbing as the screen has ever essayed. Add the
mighty magnetism of No. 1 BoxofHce Star Crosby and the offering undoubtedly totals top
popularity."-BOXOFFICE
never better, and not as good since 'Going My Way' as he is
L^dl^ntfUl humor in the foreground. Bing was
in this one. He was fortunate
in having the clever Brackett & Wilder guiding his enterprise. They've embroidered their ;
situations with chuckles and charm."— M. P.
DAILY

DOXOttiCC picture . . . adds up to topnotch entertainment
for moviegoers of all ages. Highly imaginative— a gem. Crosby a standout. Extra
playing time seems destined. "-SHOWMEN'S TRADE REVIEW
wU Dwl production numbers, glittering Technicolor and
oh-so-solid new tunes. There's a long, long line of greenbacks in store for it. One of the
year's big boons for the exhibitor. Paramount obviously opened the floodgates for this
one."-DAILY VARIETY
tXCwIlcliiy money in the till in any situation. Has
what it takes to keep the turnstiles moving. The customers are a cinch to tell Cousin
Mabel and Friend Bill that there's a real slice of entertainment at the movies down the
street."-MOTION PICTURE HERALD
BING
JOAN
CROSBY- FONTAINE
mkMdJim
Color by TECHNICOLOR
Lwiih ROLAND CULVER LL'CILE WATSON • • RICHARD HAYDN- HAROLD VERMILYEA
Produced by CHARLES BRACKET! Directed by BILLY WILDER
Written by Charles Brackett and Billy Wilder
GALA PREMIERE, NIGHT OF MAY 26,
AT PARAMOUNT HOLLYWOOD

!
Inferstate Circuit Tells the Public
About Its LoYf Admission Scales
'fr'/i^'i":
mOVIES ARE VOUR Iftoit SoiomiMi
\aHd BEST fORfn Of Stie^'^i*"'^^

'
lOSTON
,
.IHARLOnE
'
IVIBANY
Tl
Best-Seller
il- Famous
Becomes
I Dramatic Leader in
rhe March of Holly-
Wood's Greater Motion
Pictures. You Will See
Our Finest Emotional
Drama Since "To Each
His Own" at the
PARAMOUNT
TRADE SHOWS
FRIDAY, MAY 21st
MILLAND • TODD
GERALDINE
FITZGERALD
in
HAL WALLIS'
PRODUCTION
SoSvil
CITY
PLACE OF SCREENING
"SO EVIL
MY LOVE'
BIG TOWN
SCANDAL"
FOX PROJ. ROOM, 1052 Broadway S PMi
jaiANTA PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 154 Walton Street, N.W JO A.M
PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 58 Berkeley Street 2:30 f.M
UFFALO PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 464 Franklin Street J.30 P.M
PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 305 So. Church Street ?0
':HICAG0 PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1306 So. Michigan Avenue 1.30 P.M
:iNCII^NATI PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1214 Centrol Parkway 2:A5
CLEVELAND PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1735 East 23rd Street 2 P.M 77 A.M.
PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 412 So. Horwood Street 2:30 P.M
i'lAUAS
;)ENVER PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 2100 Stout Street 3 P.M
i)ES MOINES PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1125 High Street 7 P.M
'>ETROIT PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 479 Ledyard Avenue 2 P.M
NDIANAPOLIS PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 116 West Michigan Street 2 P.M 77 A.M.
lACKSONVILLE FLORIDA THEATRE SCREENING ROOM, 128 Forsyth St 8:30 P.M
'ANSAS CITY PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1800 Wyandotte Street 3 P.M
|OS ANGELES BOULEVARD THEATRE, Washington and Vermont Streets ?:30 P.M
MEMPHIS PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 362 South Second Street 3 P.M
iMLWAUKEE.
. , PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1121 North 8th Street 3 P.M
MNNEAPOLIS PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1201 Currie Avenue 1:30 P.M
lEW HAVEN PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 82 Stote Street 2 P.M
ilEW ORLEANS PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 215 South Liberty Street I P.M
I
jlEW YORK CITY. . .NORMANDIE THEATRE, 51 East 53rd Street 10:30
HEW YORK CITY . . . FOX PROJ. ROOM, 345 West 44th Street
PKLAHOMA CITY . . PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 701 West Grand Avenue I P.M
i'MAHA PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1704 Davenport Street 2 P.M
HILADELPHIA PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 248 North 12th Street 2 P.M 77 A.M.
ITTSBURGH PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 1727 Boulevord of Allies 2 P.M
ORTLAND PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 909 N.W. 19th Avenue 2:?5 P.M 7 P.M.
T.LOUIS PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 2949 Olive Street 2
ALT LAKE CITY PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 270 East Isl South Street 2:30
AN FRANCISCO... PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 205 Golden Gote Avenue 1:30 P.M
AM
2:30 P.M.
2:30 f.hA.
10:30 A.M.
3:30 P.M.
7:30 f.M.
3:15 P.M.
P.M 1:30 P.M.
A.M
70:30 A.M.
2 P.M.
2:50 P.M.
70:30 A.M.
7:30 P.M.
7:30 P.M.
3 P.M.
2 P.M.
2 P.M.
10:30 A.M.
3:45 P.M.
70:30 A.M.
2:30 P.M.
70:30 A.M.
70:30 A.M.
70:30 A.M.
P.M 7 P.M.
P.M 7 P.M.
3:20 P.M.
LeoG.Carroll-RaymondHuntley
Martita Hunt • Raymond Lovell
Moira Lister V Roderick Lovell
Directed by
LEWIS ALLEN
Screenplay by Leonard Spigelgoss and Ronald Millar
Based on a novel by Joseph Sheoring
?creen
Sc
PLUS
."" .^^e Urn ^^ck^d
^ based
EATTLE PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 2330 First Avenue 2:15 P.M 7 P.M.
i^'ASHINGTON PARA. PROJ. ROOM, 306 H Street N.W 3:30 P.M 2:30 P.M.
"'S'lof
Tom,
!^y BonT"" %ree
*«"P7, '"" t-V A1, ''oo
'""on
As

. . Martha
—
. . Other
. . On
'i^oUe^tmod ^efiont
Story Buys Show Gain;
Eight New Purchases
Flow of new literary material into studio
vaults continued at a rapid pace during the
period, wherein eight transactions were consummated.
Two of the deals, however, were
slightly out of routine in that they concerned
the acquisition of story properties by
production units from other companies which
had previously owned them, and not directly
from the authors thereof.
Walter Wanger, for instance, purchased
"The World and Little Willie," by Val Burton.
Sheridan Gibney and Stanley Roberts,
from R. B. Roberts Productions, which originally
had intended it as a starring vehicle
for John Garfield. Wanger will produce the
yarn for Eagle Lion release, with June Lockhart
set in the role of a young school teacher.
A similarly circuitous arrangement was
that whereby Beckworth Productions (the
independent unit headed by Rita Hayworth)
bought from Columbia "Lona Hanson," a new
novel by Thomas Hanson, as a starring subject
for the actress. Along with the story
go the services of S. Sylvan Simon, Columbia
producer, who will bring it to the screen
under the Beckworth label for Columbia release.
Other acquisitions:
David O. Selznick purchased "The Long
Walk," story of the paraplegic ward in a
U.S. veterans' hospital, from Betsey Barton.
The yarn is told in the space of a single
day in the lives of the hospital ward's inmates
. . Warners popped for no less than
.
three new subjects. "Dragger Captain," by
Joseph Mitchell, will be produced by Henry
Blanke, possibly as a Gary Cooper vehicle.
Jack Rose's "Something About the Irish"
goes on Jerry Wald's production slate, with
Rose scripting the comedy-drama. "Dallas,"
a historical western, will serve as an adventure
drama for Errol Flynn. It was authored
by John Twist . . . Ai-gosy Pictures
the Merian C. Cooper-John Ford independent
unit—bought "Mission Without Orders," a
story by James Warner Bellah, as a subject
for John Wayne and John Agar. It is set
to roll in midsummer, in Technicolor, with
no release yet arranged . Albrand's
"After Midnight," which will be
serialized by the Saturday Evening Post, was
picked up by Paramount. Backgrounded in
Italy, it concerns an American in quest of
an imitation of a great classical painting.
Pair of New Independents
To Be Under EL Banner
Activity as concerns the formation of new
independent production units, one of filmdom's
popular pastimes, took an upswing
with the creation of two more units, both of
which have secured release commitments
with Eagle Lion.
Lester Cutler, formerly associated with
Arthur Lyons in the making of "Ruthless"
for EL release, has set up his own firm
with plans to produce "House of Cards,"
based on a story by Clarence Budington
Kelland. He is headquartering at Motion
By
IVAN SPEAR
Picture Center studios under the banner of
National Pictures.
Masque Productions, headed by Matty
Kemp, will begin camera work late this
month on "Million Dollar Weekend," a Gene
Raymond starrer which is booked to go into
work on location in Honolulu. Raymond will
also direct from a screenplay by Charles S.
Belden.
Tw^o Independent Ventures
To Be Released by U-I
Of more than ordinary interest are two
new sharecropping production developments
as cooked up for Universal-International release,
with camera work on both to start this
summer.
John Beck—a U-I vice-president and also
associated with Sonja Henie in Westwood
Productions, now filming "The Countess of
Monte Cristo" for U-I—is teaming with Z.
Wayne Griffin in the production of "Family
Honeymoon." with Claudette Colbert set in
the femme starring role. Miss Colbert's own
Crest Productions, which had previously
booked a mid-June start for "The Soft
Touch," will postpone that venture until
after the completion of the Beck-Griffin
enterprise. Griffin was until recently an associate
of Robert Young and Eugene Rodney
in Cavalier Productions.
Also added to the schedule was "Amboy
Dukes," the juvenile delinquency yarn by
Irving Shulman, which will be produced for
U-I by Maxwell Shane as the second picture
on the production slate of Geffen-Shane
Productions. Shane plans to film the story
almost entirely in its actual locale, the tenement
section of Brooklyn, and will cast
most of the juvenile roles from among
youngsters actually living in that neighborhood.
He will leave for the east shortly to
begin rounding up the players.
RKO Statistics
Reveal
17 New Films Ready
On the eve of Howard Hughes' imminent
assumption of control of the company,
those officials on the RKO payroll
who are concerned with such matters
bobbed up with statistics revealing the
studio's current status as concerns product
in various stages of preparation or
production. Backed up by a bank of completed
scripts that will insure a backlog
of celluloid well into 1919, the tally also
disclosed that 17 pictures are completed
and waiting release between now and the
end of the year. Five others are being
edited, two are shooting and eight more
are set to roll within the next two months.
Among completed product is the costly
"Joan of Arc," the Ingrid Bergman starrer
produced by Walter Wanger, which is
scheduled for roadshow treatment next
fall on a two-a-day reserved seat basis.
Arthur Pierson to Direct
"The O'Hynn' for U-I
A newcomer to film direction although experienced
as a stage and radio writer-director,
Arthur Pierson was signed by Douglas Fairbanks
jr. to pilot "The O'Flynn," Fairbanks'
next starring-producing venture for Universal-International
. the same lot Robert
Buckner was assigned to produce "Paradise
Lost— 1948," to be filmed on location in Italy
this fall . . . Paramount assigned Leslie Fenton
to meg its forthcoming Technicolor western,
"Streets of Laredo," now being scripted
by Charles Marquis Warren ... As his first
production chore in three years, Harry Rapt
returns to active duty with Metro by readying
"Satan's Angel," an original by Steve Fisher.
Rapf's last, "Gallant Bess," was turned out in
1945 . . . Robert D. Andrews was set to write
the screenplay for "Bad Boy," Monogram-
Allied Artists film to be produced by Paul
Short in cooperation with Variety Clubs International
. scripting activity found
William Ludwig set to develop "Greyfriars'
Bobby" at Metro, where Sally Benson began
work on the screen treatment for "Young
Bess."
Goddard and Lindfors Get
Outdoor Heroine Roles
Among the more provocative morsels of
casting news were disclosures that two actresses
whose principal stock-in-trade heretofore
has been glamour have been set as
outdoor heroines in a pair of sagas of the
sagebrush. Paulette Goddard, borrowed from
Paramount, will co-star with Gregory Peck
in 20th-Fox's "Yellow Sky," while 'Viveca
Lindfors, Warners' Swedish importation, goes
into "South of St. Louis," an Oregon Trail
opus to be produced for the Warner company
by Milton Sperling's United States Pictures
. . . Rudy Vallee draws a comedy lead
in "My Dear Secretary." Harry Popkin production
for United Artists . . . Topliners in
Columbia's "Undercover Man" are Glenn
Ford and Nina Foch, while on the same lot
Rosalind Russell was booked for the title
role in "Miss Grant Takes Richmond" . . .
A heavy lead in MGM's "The Bribe" goes
to Charles Laughton.
Broadway Producer Katzell
Given Eagle Lion Pact
Imported from Broadway, where he was
active in stage production. William Katzell
was signed as an Eagle Lion producer and
handed "Wetbacks" as his first chore. The
documentary, to be made with U.S. treasury
department cooperation, is concerned with
the smuggling of aliens across the border . . .
Lester Cowan's next production following
"One Touch of Venus," which he is making
for Universal-International, will be an untitled
musical comedy starring Groucho
Marx, Dick Haymes and Joan Caulfield. No
release is set, however.
Columbia Ups Burt Kelly
To Executive Producer
His long years of service as a producer for
the studio have been rewarded by Columbia
through the elevation of Burt Kelly to an
executive producer spot. He will head a
unit under which Robert Cohn. Rudolph
Plothow, Wallace MacDonald and Ted Richmond
will produce. Kelly's last production
for the company was "The Swordsman."
26 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

\
will
j
a
I
I mount
'
'
BOXOFFICE
:
. . there
2
NBC Leases Studios
For Tele from RKO
NEW YORK—RKO Pathe has leased three
studios of its production headquarters on
Park avenue and 106th street to NBC to be
used for television broadcasting. A five-year
lease was negotiated by Harry J. Michalson,
RKO Pathe president, and Fi-ank E. Mullen,
executive vice-president for NBC. Network
personnel will begin moving July 1.
Set construction facilities and an entire
floor for office workers are included in the
deal.
It is reported that Jerry Fairbanks, who is
now making television shorts for NBC on the
coast, will use the Park avenue studios for
his
films.
Paramount Video Studio
Planned in NY Building
NEW YORK—Television Productions, Inc.,
subsidiary of Paramount, has started construction
of a television studio in the Para-
Bldg. The studio, when completed,
include space for live programs, and
facilities for feeding entertainment to the
Paramount Theatre, which is in the same
building, and to other houses equipped for
large-screen television projection. The studio
will be equipped with image orthicon
cameras and film cameras for the production
of film shorts for theatre as well as television
use.
No date has been set for the completion
of the new studio, according to George Shupert,
director of commercial operations.
WGN-TV Secures Rights
On 24 Korda Films
CHICAGO—Exclusive television rights in
Chicago on 24 British motion pictures produced
by Sir Alexander Korda have been obtained
by .station WGN-TV, an operation of
the Chicago Tribune. The films were made
available to the station through WPIX, the
New York Daily News station, which purchased
American rights to them two weeks
ago from Korda's New York agent. Theatre
reissue rights on the pictures are held by
Film Classics, Inc.
FROM THE FILES OF
QARTOON CHARACTERS are rapidly making
themselves prominent on the screen.
Barney Google and his horse Spark Plug will
be one of the new ones.
Fox Film Coi-p. is celebrating its silver anniversary
by announcing the release of 52
pictui'es for the coming season. Four are now
on Broadway: "Sunrise," "Mother Machree,"
"Four Sons," "Street Angel" . . . Chesterfield
Pictures Corp. recently announced it would
release eight films for the season . . . MGM
will release 44 pictui-es in addition to 104
newsreels. Paramount will release 74 features
and 200 short subjects.
TiJct^^in^ta^ ^cfiont
TELEVISION IS DUE for a major shakeup.
The Federal Communications commis-
.sion promises a thorough overhaul of the
present situation with the aim of getting additional
channels for television.
Long-crowded into 13 channels below 216
megacycles, TV broadcasters have felt like
Mother Hubbard's children. They were so
crowded they didn't know what to do. And
the demand for new TV stations promised to
make matters worse.
For a long time, TV broadcasters have
m-ged the FCC to let them operate higher up
the spectrum where there is vacant space.
Okay, the FCC finally agreed this week in
announcing hearings to start September 20 on
the matter of using the frequencies in the
475-890 megacycle band for TV. Now that
range is for experimental use.
Color television will be part of the hearing,
for in the upper part of the spectrum it is
possible. So will the cost of adapting sets
now in homes to receive broadcasts from the
higher spectrum. The FCC wants some advice
about standards, too.
In calling for the hearings, the FCC said:
"The demand for facilities far exceeds the
available frequencies . is insufficient
spectrum space below 300 megacycles to make
possible truly nationwide competitive television
system."
* • •
The hearings promise to
be exhaustive, for
the FCC wants to turn up the full story, as
follows
1. "Full information concerning interference
to the reception of television stations
operating on channels 2 through 13 resulting
from adjacent operation of other services,
from harmonic radiations, and from
man-made noises.
2. "Such additional data as may be available
since the close of the hearings in Dockets
6651 and 7896 (earlier TV cases) concerning
the propagation characteristics of the band
475 to 890 MC.
3. "Full information concerning the state
of development of transmitting and receiving
equipment for either monochi-ome or
color television broadcasting, or both, capable
of operating in the band 475-890 MC.
4. "Full information concerning any proposals
for the utilization of the band 475-890
MC or any part thereof for television broadcasting
and the standards to be proposed
therefor."
This wasn't all the FCC did about TV.
It ruled that effective June 14, television
broadcasters will no longer have to share
channels with non-broadcasting services.
Moreover the 72-76 megacycle band, which
has been a source of constant interference
with TV broadcasts, has been assigned to
fixed services, which will virtually remove
all interference.
Channel No. 1 has been taken away from
TV broadcasters and given to non-government
fixed and mobile services, but TV won't
feel too bad about this as the 72-76 megacycle
band interference would be removed.
In a related action, the FCC also decided
to hold hearings starting June 14 to revise
By LEE GARLING
the allocations of the 12 chamiels left to
TV. Chiefly, the revisions are based on engineering
data as to the number of channels
that can be used in any one locality. Under
the FCC's proposals, channels would be taken
away from areas where they are not being
used, and given to areas that need them. The
hearings will bring clashes of a local nature,
FCC believes.
In one more action, the FCC this week revised
downw^ard the amount of time that TV
stations must operate to hold their licenses.
It's graduated with a minimum of 12 hours
weekly for the first 18 months of station
operation; 16 hours weekly for the next six
months: 20 hours for the next six months;
24 houi-s for the next six months; and 28
hours weekly after three years of operation.
A minimum of two hours daily on each of
five days of each week is still required. After
three years, two hours daily, seven days
weekly is required. The present minimum is
28 hours weekly operation.
The proposal to let TV move up the spectrum
won't be achieved without both opposition
and approval. The problem of what to
do about set owners will come up, and may be
one of the most touchy. Estimates of the
costs of adapters will be made and disputed.
The recent words of Sen. Charles W. Tobey
(R., N.H.I, ranking member of the senate
commerce committee were recalled by FCC
officials.
The senator sharply rebuked the FCC for
changing the FM band on the calculations of
one man, K. A. Norton, and predicted the
FCC shift on TV. A lot of owners of TV sets
now, said Tobey "are going to be awfully
bamboozled and fooled."
At the same time, Tobey is studying the
problem in his own committee at hearings
on standard, FM and TV band allocations.
A score or more of radio and TV witnesses
have appeared, and many others are due to
appear.
A big argument for moving TV up the
spectrum lies in the statistics on current stations.
With the channels below 216 In demand
in the best locations, some 200 applications
for new TV stations are pending. On
the air are 22 stations, and under constrution,
71.
National Board of Review
Honors Three Features
NEW YORK—Two American films, "The
Emperor Waltz" (Parai and "Your Red
Wagon" (RKO), and one French-made. "Not
Guilty," released by Ariane Productions, have
been given starred selected features rating,
the top honor of the National Board of Review,
in the weekly guide to selected pictures.
Selected features rating has been awarded
to "Design for Death" (RKO) and "The
Dude Goes West" (Mono>.
Short subjects given special mention are:
"Climbing the Matterhom" (Monoi, "Big
Game Angling," "Pre-Hysterical Man" and
"We're in the Honey" iParai and "The Children's
Republic," a nonbheatrical film distributed
bv A.F. Films.
:: May 15, 1948
27

7
The Next Precision -Planned, 20th Showmaiil
268-THEATRE, 12-STATE
DECORATION DAI
l^m^'
>:#
I
I
'1
Hear
BURL IVES j%
"WHERE ON WHERE IS
DUR LiniE SUSIE"
(Woy Down Yonder in
the Papow Patch)
"I MARRIED A WIFE"
.IWi.h I Woi Single Agoin)^
"THE BALLAD OF
THUNDERHEAD'
Starring
CU
with
LLOYD N
Directed by I
OUI
Screen Play by Martin

p- Styled Industry Event!
RLD PREMIERE/ «>"
WEEK! /
suresk
'"- and
^liowm.
appeal
m
I
'e/?'s
^^^G/M
Trade
Hev^
yetv
ond
If^CORo,
I /y
-%/ mce
V-
^\V-.X*HI
'
•V >, 'i#
' '
|v^
'.•.5f,^vv-
..V'
.v^;"'>•".
...'//<
4 ,-'-. vV

,
i
—
I
RKO Radio's
7 Remember Mama
Wins April Blue Ribbon Award
By VELMA WEST SYKES
THE MYSTERIOUS BOARDER PAYS IN THIS FASHION.
KINDLING KATRIN'S AMBITION TO BE A WRITER
TT WAS a hit novel to begin with, a hit as a stage play, and now "I R^jjiember Mama"!
has shown itself to be a hit film by winning the April BOXOFFICE Blue Ribbon Award.
Selected by the National Screen Council as the outstanding cm-rent motion picture which
is good entertainment for the whole family, this tender saga of Scandinavian family life,
emphasizes the fact that Hollywood does make good family films and makes them for the
family to enjoy on the screen. Two of the Blue Ribbon winners by RKO in this field
have had Scandinavian backgrounds recently, the other being "The Farmer's Daughter,"
which won the May Award for last year. Perhaps there are other family backgrounds,
transplanted to the United States, which will be as ably interpreted via the three mediums
through which these two have reached a responsive public.
UNINHIBITED UNCLE CHRIS SHOWS THE CHILDREN
THEY HAVE NO GOOD REASON TO BE AFRAID OF HIM
"I Remember Mama" has built up an enviable
record at the boxoffice and for extended
runs in the various key cities reporting
for the Barometer weekly page. It
is doing a combined average business of 142
per cent in these spots and being held over
in most theatres. This is only the beginning,
too, for it is the type of picture which does
not have to depend on de luxe houses for its
major business, though it will play them. It
is equally good or better for the subsequent
run houses, the neighborhood spots and the
small town situations. In fact, when BOX-
OFFICE reviewed it in the issue of March
13, the reviewer appraised it accurately
with these comments:
Lovable Immigrant Family
"It's one of those heart-warming, fundamentally-simple,
all-too-rare films about the
lives, loves, problems and tribulations of a
wholesome and lovable immigrant family
in this case Norwegian—millions of wliich
comprise the backbone of our nation. As
such it inescapably must strongly appeal to
every picture patron, regardless of age, creed,
color or film taste."
Members of the National Screen Council
who wrote pertinent comments on their returning
ballots included Mrs. J. W. Livingston
of the Grand Rapids Better Films Council,
with this observation; "This to me was fine
theatre. 'I Remember Mama' is certainly an
unforgettable film. It epitomizes the finest
in family life—and Uncle Chris' virtues offset
his peculiarities."
Picked Without Reservations
"This would get my vote in any sort of
poll," writes Freda Halwe of the Port Arthur
(Tex.) News. "It is so nice to have one to
recommend without reservations." . . . "How.
grand a picture! Would that we had more of I
these wholesome, heart-warming ones."—
Anne Hayes, KCMO, Kansas City . . . "One!
. .
of the joys of the season and a tonic for'
wholesome family life."—Helen C. Dill, Beverly
Hills, Music Educators National Conference
. "When Academy Award time comes
around again, I hope everybody will remember
'Mama.' " —Leonard Clairmont, Swedish
Pi-ess Hollywood representative.
RKO Radio is having the thrill of two Blue:
Ribbon winners in a row, since last month's
winner, Samuel Goldwyn's "The Bishop's
Wife," was released by the same company.
For Dore Schary this will be the seventh
Blue Ribbon Plaque in ten years, George
Stevens now has four, Harriet Parsons and
DeWitt Bodeen two each. Among the players,
Irene Dunne now has five Blue Ribbons
as does Sir Cedric Hardwicke.
The Cast
Mama
Katrin
Uncle Chris
Papa
Mr. Hyde....---
Mr. Thorkelson
Dr. Johnson
Irene Dunne
Barbara Bel Geddes
Oscar Homolka
Philip Dorn
Sir Cedric Hardwicke
Edgar Bergen
Rudy Vallee
Jessie Brown
Barbara O'Neil.
Christine ---
Peggy McIntyre
Dagviar
June Hedin
Nels
Steve Brown
Aunt Trina
...Ellen Corby
Aunt Jenny
Hope Landin
Aimt Sigrid
Edith Evanson
Cousin Arne- Tommy Ivo
Production Staff
RKO Production Chief Dore Schary
Executive Producer and Director
George Stevens
Assista?it Director John H. Morse
Produced by
Harriett Parsons
Based on the play by John Van Druten
From the novel, "Mama's Bank
Account" by Kathryn Forbes
Screenplay by DeWitt Bodeen
Director of Photography
Nicholas Musuraca, A.S.C
Art Directors Albert S. D'Agostino,
Carroll Clark
Special Effects b?/. .Russell A. Cully, A.SC.
Set Decorations by Darrell Silvera,
Emile Kuri
Makeup Supervision by Gordon Bau
Music by
Roy Webb
Musical Director C. Bakaleinikoff
Film Editor Robert Swink
Sound by
Richard Van Hessen,
Clem Portman
if This Award is givoi each month by the National Screen Council an the basis tt outttanding merit
and suitability (or family entertainment. Council membership comprises motion picture editvs, radio
film commentators, and representatives of better film councils, civic and educational organizatiofls.

.
' ...
YOU'LL remember "I Remember Mama" as a SMASH box-office success
—if you make the most of the nation-wide publicity given the April BLUE
RIBBON AWARD WINNER by using the handy, adaptable expJoitafion
exfras of the BLUE RIBBON AWARD KIT! . . . Tell your patrons about this
NATIONAL SCREEN COUNCIL selection . . . and all o/her winners ... in
your Newspaper Advertising ... in your Lobby ... on your Screen! . . .
There are mats; colorful die-cut gummed seals and ribbons; an attractive
one-sheet; a TAILPIECE, and a distinctive TRAILER . . . Order NOW for
memorable successes on "I Remember Mama."
/-
-N
"Winner of the BOX OFFICE Blue Ribbon
Award . . . Selected by the
NATIONAL SCREEN COUNCIL . .
comprised of 242 Motion Picture Editors
oi Newspapers and Magazines ... 30
Radio Commentators ... 170 Clubwomen
and representotives oi sociaL
civic. Religious and Educational Organizations
... as the BEST PICTURE
OF THE MONTH for the Whole Family!"
^
BRA-1 . . . $325
\iWimAv,\c^ieefi vf\C^^e€n service
\JPMZfBaar of memoi/smy
8
2"x 3" DIE-CUT
GUMMED
SEALS
2
DIE-CUT
GUMMED
RIBBONS
Order from your
nearest
NSS Exchange
Oj
OI
in striking
blue-and-gold!
Use them to
snipe 8 X 10
and 11x14
stills.
. . . attention
compelling!
Perfect for
sniping 14x36
and 22x28
inserts!
4" X 4" . . . for
sniping 1-
sheets, 30x40s,
40x60s and
Banners!
. . . three onecolumn,
three
two - column.
Ideal for bordersand
inserts
on your newspaper
ads!
. . . attractively
printed in rich
blue-and-gold.
Use it for sniping
24 sheets
and in a lobby
frame!
Use this TAIL-PIECE
after Feature Trailers
and before
the Feature!
I
o
o
o
a
o
a
o
o
o
o
a
a
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
a
o
oao
o
o
o
a
.

A ^cfi^ont
MOT SINCE J. ARTHUR RANK unveiled
his $5,000,000 epic "Caesar and Cleopatra"
has the British press alloted so much
space to a picture as that given last week
to "Hamlet." The big difference, though,
is that the space given to the former film
was filled with unfavorable criticism—to this
latest offering the press is eulogistic with
scarcely a dissenting voice.
The picture opened on Thursday with a
royal premiere attended by the king and
queen. Two days before that it was shown
to the press and it was obvious from the
very large number of journalists present that
editors had made up their minds in advance
that this was not a subject for a straight
review but that it justified a news story.
On the evening of the press show two of
the three London evenings ran a large page
one review of the film, hailing it as the
greatest prestige picture yet produced by
British studios. The morning after every
daily newspaper ran two-column stories with
stills from the film. To the American reader,
accustomed to 56-page papers this may mean
little, but it should be remembered that
daily and evening newspapers in Britain are
still limited to four pages and to give st
much space to a news story is very rare.
Even the Daily Express, which is bitterly
anti-Rank at the moment, was loud in its
praise.
How important is all this to the average
American exhibitor? To the neighborhood
and small town houses it probably means
nothing. To the theatres in the big towns
and to the art houses which have specialized
in British pictures this film is going to
mean a gross twice as large as that of
"Henry V."
It is difficult in cold blood to sit down
to review "Hamlet," for its emotional impact
while watching the film is tremendous. Two
and a half hours is a very long time to sit
through any film without fidgeting and it is
a tribute to the picture to say that the attention
only wanders for seconds at a time,
and that mainly during the long panning
shots which could be trimmed. Hamlet, as
Olivier sees him, is a man obsessed with love
of his mother and furiously jealous of the
uncle who has supplanted his dead father.
The scene in the queen's bedchamber when
he berates his mother for re-marrying is
high drama and the tension of the sequence
is almost unbearable. Later, during Ophelia's
mad scene which is brilliantly played by
Jean Simmons, the silence in the theatre
was intense and it seemed that everyone was
waiting for this 18-year-old actress to make
a slip in what must be the most difficult
woman's role in a Shakespearean play. Miss
Simmons handled the part magnificently
and completely vindicated the faith which
Olivier had in her.
The Rank office has learned a lesson with
its "Henry V," which was released in England
on a normal basis and which was comparatively
unsuccessful here. "Hamlet" will
play at the Odeon, Leicester Square, for as
long as it will hold up with only two shows
a day (the picture runs 2'i hoursi and reserved
seats for all but the lowest-priced
part of the theatre. After that it will play
selected spots for long engagements and
By JOHN SULLIVAN
SCENE FROM "HAfllLET"—Laurence
Olivier, who portrays Hamlet, and Eileen
Herlie in the role of his mother, the
queen, are shown above as they appear
in a scene from the Two Cities film
presentation of William Shakespeare's
"Hamlet," which opened at the Odeon
Theatre, Leicester Square, in London
last week. Hamlet is shown in the bedchamber
of his mother. They are disturbed
by a noise behind the arras, and
Hamlet draws his dagger. He thinks it
may be the king.
then, perhaps, will be given a normal release.
Much the same policy will be adopted in
the U.S.
* * *
AS A SIDELIGHT ON "HAMLET" it
is
interesting to note that the British censor
has awarded the picture a "U" (universal or
general) certificate which means that both
children and adults will be admitted to the
cinemas showing the film. In spite of the
fact that the film contains some of Shakespeare's
bawdy dialog and some situations
that would not pass the censor in a film with
a modern setting. This is presumably because
the story is a classic and the dialog
is a study subject in schools anyway.
That the censor is not always so amenable
is proved by the fact that the much-discussed
"No Orchids for Miss Blandish" after
being cut by order of the London county
council and banned completely by the Surrey
coimty coimcil has now been recommended.
It is now reported that the police
chief of Leeds has paid a special visit to
London to see the film and has recommended
that it be banned in that town. Birmingham
justices have also asked to see the picture
before allowing it to be shown.
"No Orchids" is a bad film in the sense of
technique and it is doubtful whether It
should have been made at all, but this attempt
by busybodies all over the country to
get it banned strikes at a fundamental principle.
As in the U.S. British producers have
their own unofficial body of censors whose
word is invariably accepted by local councils
and a picture passed by the board is rarely
challenged. The action of local authorities
over this film should be watched with close
attention by the BFPA for. if this tendency
to override the censor's ruling should spread
it can involve producers in a heavy ioss.
With a production completed from a script
originally passed by the censor and then
banned by local councUs a loss of half a
million dollars has to be faced.
WARDOUR STREET WAS SHOCKED to
hear of the sudden death of S. B. "Bobby"
Dubow, general sales manager of United
Artists in England. He was hard at work on
the day of his death and at lunch time went
to a Turkish bath, where he collapsed and
died. Executives of the company attended
the cremation ceremony. He leaves a wife
and two grown-up children, one of whom is
on the staff of Eros Films.
SHIPMAN AND KING, who operate a circuit
of 37 theatres around the London area
are floating a share Issue shortly. The total
capital involved is believed to be in the region
of $5,000,000, which is moderate when it is
considered that their theatres are unopposed
in every case.
The theatre owners are, of course, also
controllers of the Alliance Film Studio group
which owns Riverside, Southall and Twickeiiham
stjidlos.
• • • '
BRITISH PRODUCERS are pressing the
board of trade to announce the new quota
for British pictures now instead of waiting
until July. The quota will take effect from
next October and producers are arguing that
to delay the announcement until July will
cause uncertainty in the industry and make
it difficult to obtain film finance.
ARRIVING IN NEW YORK this
week is
Howard Thomas, producer in chief of Pathe's
newsreels and short subjects. Although separately
controlled, British Pathe has business
associations with French Pathe and
with Warner Pathe News of America and
Thomas is due in New York for conferences
with the American company to discuss their
future relations.
Another subject of vital interest to the
company is television, and during his stay
Howard Thomas will visit the RCA laboratories
at Princeton to see new technical advances
in American television.
Extra 'Best Years' Show
For Overflow Refused
GLASGOW—Local magistrates have refused
to permit the Odeon Cinema Theatre
here to hold an extra late showing of "The
Best Years of Our Lives," Samuel Goldwyn
production, to accommodate overflow crowds
at the regular shows.
An exhibitor in Southport, England, has
run Into similar trouble. City magistrates
denied W. H. Bellis permission to open his
theatre at 7 p. m. Sundays instead of 8 p. m.
during the run of "Best Years." Bellis booked
the RKO release through May.
CEA to Honor Gen. Curtis
At Luncheon on May 20
LONDON—The Cinematograph Exhibitors
Ass'n will honor Maj. Gen. Edward P. "Ted"
Curtis, vice-president in charge of worldwide
sales for Eastman Kodak, at a luncheon at
Grosvenor House May 20. General Curtis
was host to J. Arthur Rank during the letter's
recent visit to Rochester, N. Y.
32 BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

. . Robert
. . Leon
. .
. . Ronald
. . . Bert
. . Lou
. . Henry
BROADWAY
Cam L. Seidelman, foreign operations liead
for Eagle Lion, has returned from Europe
where he held meetings on the distribution of
the company's Hollywood-made product . . .
Bernard J. Gates, Monogram International
Latin-American supervisor, left May 10 by air
for Havana and Latin-America on a threemonth
tour of the company branches .
Sidney Horen, home office representative for
20th Century-Pox International in Spain,
Portugal and Spanish North Africa, has arrived
to attend business conferences with
Murray Silverstone and other company executives.
Dan Lederman, who recently resigned
as 20th-Fox managing director of the Philippine
Islands, has been summoned here for
consultation by Silverstone.
Ben Kalmenson, Warner Bros, distribution
head, left New York May 11 for a tour of the
company branches . . . M. L. Simons, assistant
to H. M. Richey, MGM exhibitor relations
head, has returned from a southwestern trip
... F. J. A. McCarthy, southern and California
sales manager for Universal-International,
has left for Indianapolis . J.
Bamberger, RKO sales promotion manager,
has returned to the home office after attending
the annual convention of the ITO of
Arkansas in Little Rock . R. Yoimg,
chairman of the board of the Chesapeake &
Ohio Railroad and principal stockholder in
Pathe Industries, and Robert W. Purcell,
chairman of the Pathe Industries board, have
left for Hollywood for conferences with Arthur
B. Krim, Eagle Lion president, and other
studio executives.
. . Karl Herzog,
. .
B. G. Kranze, vice-president and general
sales manager of Film Classics, Inc., is on a
trip to Chicago and Detroit .
vice-president of Cinecolor Corp., has left for
Hollywood to review new color commitments
The Film Classics department heads held
.
a luncheon party May 7 for President Joseph
Bernhard in celebration of his 59th birthday
. . . Carroll L. Puciato and James B.
Harris, assistants to Budd Rogers, Realart
vice-president in charge of sales, have returned
from Pittsburgh after conferences
with Bert Steam on the 1948-49 program.
James R. Grainger, Republic executive
vice-president in charge of sales, returned to
the home office May 12 following a trip
which took him to Chicago, Denver, San
. . Elsie
Francisco and Los Angeles . Colman
and Mrs. Colman (Benita Hume) sailed
on the Queen Elizabeth May 14 to make a
personal appearance at the London opening
of "A Double Life," the picture which
won Colman the Academy award. Nat Wolff
and his wife, Edna Best; Sophie Tucker and
Alicia Markova were also on board .
Kaufman, a member of Columbia's advertising
and publicity department, resigned May
14 to await the birth of a child . . . Sons
were born to two members of the United
Artists publicity department, the births marking
the second child in each family. The
fathers are Charles Handel, feature writer
and photo editor, and Leon Roth, promotion
manager.
Mme. Raymonde Audibert, director of
Pathe Journal in Paris: Howard Thomas,
producer of Pathe News in London, and William
Miu-ray, European chief of Warner-
Pathe News, have arrived from Europe for
conferences with Walton Ament, and other
executives of Pathe News here . . Fred H.
.
Hotchkiss, European regional manager of the
Westrex Corp., and Edward G. Wagner, controller,
sailed May 14 on the Queen Eliza-
. . . Jacques Chabrier, president
beth. Hotchkiss will visit WE offices in
Barcelona, Rome and Basle and hold a conference
in Paris with WE branch managers
in Europe
of Pathe Cinema of America, and Robert
Guillemard, production chief, have left for
Hollywood to consult with RKO officials on
the completion of "Outpost in Morocco."
Berle Adams, producer of the Louis Jordan
Negro films, is in New York for conferences
with R. M. Savini. president of Astor Pictures,
on a campaign for "Lookout Sister"
Sanford, Altec Lansing theatrical
sales manager, has left New York for a
swing through the middle west and south . . .
Hunt Stromberg, producer, with Mrs. Stromberg,
have arrived for a stay at the Waldorf-
Astoria . . . Irving Asher, MGM director. Is
a guest in the Waldorf Towers . L.
Nathanson, president of MGM Films of Canada;
Ted Gould, general sales manager, and
Dewey Bloom, exploitation representative,
have returned to Toronto after a series of
home office conferences . J. Kaufman,
Warner Bros. Theatres executive, has
returned from a trip to Cleveland and Pittsburgh.
Irene Dunne has arrived for a vacation In
Macdonald Carey, Paramount
New York . . .
star, and his wife, the former Betty Heckscher,
are on a two-week vacation in Manhattan
. . . Dorothy Stickney, who has finished
"The Tatlock Millions" for Paramoimt,
has returned to New York to start rehearsals
for the new Lindsay-Crouse play, "Life With
Mother," in which she will be starred . . .
Irene Selznick, producer of the 1947 Pulitzer
Prize play, "A Streetcar Named Desire";
Billy Wilder, Paramount director-producer;
Irving Pichel, Anatole Litvak, Faith Brook,
actress-daughter of Clive Brook, and Nigel
Bruce, film and radio player, were among the
stage and screen luminaries who sailed for
London last week.
Barton P. Tumbull Dies,
Rockefeller Center Head
SUMMIT, N. J.—Barton P. Turnbull, 58,
president of RockefeDer Center, Inc., since
1945, died at his home here May 11. In addition
to his position with Rockefeller Center,
Inc., Turnbull served as president and director
of the Center Theatre Corp. and the Radio
City Music Hall Corp. At the time of his
death, he was also a director of the Chase
National Bank and the Pittsburgh Consolidating
Coal Co.
Turnbull entered the organization as treasurer
and director in 1934, shortly after completion
of the first block of buildings. He is
survived by his widow, Dorothy, and tliree
daughters.
Drop Colonial Plan to Air
NBC Telecast in Astor
NEW YORK—Colonial Television Corp. has
dropped plans for a theatre television pickup
of an NBC television broadcast at the Astor
Theatre, New Rochelle. The operator of the
theatre and Colonial could not come to terms
on the extent of the indemnity the theatre
should be granted in case of a possible property
violation suit by NBC.
Colonial reports it still is trying to line up
an exhibitor for the demonstration. The company
plans to install its large-screen theatre
television system in a theatre and give the
theatre operator a letter of indemnity.
REPUBLIC-FRIEDER DEAL SIGNED—The above group looks happy as distributor
agreements are signed between Republic Pictures International and Frieder
Films, which will represent the company in the Far East. Seated, left to right:
Richard W. Altschuler, president of Republic International, and Alex Frieder, president
of Frieder Films. Standing: Joseph E. MoMahon, Republic secretary; Miss
Fern Montgomery, secretary, Frieder Films; Philip Frieder, officer and director, Frieder
Films and Arnold Lichtig, attorney for Frieder Films.
Mexican Actress in 'Congo Bill'
Armida, a Mexican actress, will take the
role of a native girl In Columbia's "Congo
BUI."
THE IDEAL THEATRE CHAIRS
JOE HORNSTEIN has them
48 BOXOFHCE :
: May 15, 1948

i
MOTION PICTURE ASSOCIATES
Salute.
THE WILL ROGERS
MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Annual Beacon Award
DINNER AND DANCE
Waldorf-Astoria Grand Ballroom
Friday, May 21, 1948
Tickelsi
$10 per Person
INFORMAL
Nat Harris
LA. 4-9190
For Reservations Call
Herman Schleier
CL 6-6460
or Write
Room 170, Hotel Astor, New York 19, New York
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948 49

. . . SOPEG
. . . Other
a
Along New York's Film
piLMROW visitor Fred Matthews, president
of Motiograpli, Inc., reported that his company
will install projectors in 75 drive-ins
within the next 60 days . . . One of the local
supply companies has added television receivers
to its general line of theatre equipment.
It is featuring sets with 16 by 24-inch
screens for lobby and lounge exhibition. A
shield of black crepe borders the screen. This
improves showings by keeping external lighting
away from the screen.
By WALTER WALDMAN
Charlie Welch of the Welgot Trailer Service
estimated that 120 theatres within a SOO-mile
radius of New York are now using premiums.
This is about 60 per cent of the prewar
high of 200. The iiumber is increasing steadily,
he stated, and he predicted that within
a year nearly all of the theatres in this area
that used premiums in the old days will be
using them again. Welch based his remarks
on the improved business he has been doing
in trailers announcing premiiuns. He pointed
out that the postwar trend toward premiums
began in Pennsylvania and New Jersey about
a year ago, and is now beginning to spread
in New York City.
The Paris Theatre, now being built by
Pathe Cinema on West 58th St., will be
open next September. Pathe originally
planned to begin operation this month but
struction delays forced a change of plans
will present "The Male Animal,"
the Thurber-Nugent play, at the Hudson
Guild Theatre on West 27th St. Saturday
and Simday, May 22, 23. Martin Newman
will play the lead. Others in the cast will
include: Helen Grabow, Joe De Luise, Thelma
Gelfand, Gene Singer, Buddy Picone,
Muriel Neufeld, Betsy Ann Katzin and Jean
Barbalat. Muriel Boudln will direct.
. . Bill I:rfal and Lenny
J. L. Goldberg jr. is now in charge of booking
and buying for the Lindy and Rodgers
theatres, Brooklyn .
Richmond recently celebrated their first anniversary
as operators of the Lido Theatre,
Yonkers . . . Jimmy Ring of the Playhouse
Theatre, Fords, N. J., is visiting relatives in
Row
. Austria Herman Maier of the Warner
Bros,
. .
construction department was hit by a
taxicab last week and is now in the hospital.
. .
Joe Bacsky, former owner of the Iselin
Theatre, Iselin, N. J., is now in the coal business
in Fords, N. J. Joe is still interested
in the industry. He follows the latest developments
as reported by the trade papers .
Moe Rose, MGM booker, will leave for Miami
May 29. He plans to drive to the Florida
resort
city.
Lillian Holmes has joined the booking department
of Newsreel Theatres, Inc. . . .
Harold Klein, booker for J. J. Theatres, has
returned from Atlantic City . . . The girls at
MGM gave a farewell party for Gwenn
Gersch, who has resigned to become a
mother. Dorothy Richter, also of MGM, will
be married. She also plans to leave the company.
The cm-rent crop of honeymooners includes
Sam Lake, SRO salesman, and Madeleine
Aiello of Warners.
Lee Newbury and Doc Emmot of the Newbury
circuit plan to open their New Jersey
summer theatres within the next few weeks.
The houses are located in Belmar, Seaside
Park, Point Pleasant, Lavallette, and Bay
Head. Also set for simimer openings are the
West End and Lido theatres. Long Beach . . .
The last official report had New York in
first place for shorts billings in the RKO
Ned Depinet di'ive . . . Charles Penser and
Lou Kutinsky were among the salesmen listed
in the $100 class (top) for the current drive
RKO items concern Morris Cohen
and Nettie Miller who are going in for culture
(museums and operas).
Maurice Maurer expects to begin a renovation
job on the Victoria within the next
few weeks. The seating capacity will be increased
from 811 to 1,100. New seats will replace
the old, there also will be new lounges,
lobby, front—just about everything.
SKOURAS HOSTS NEWSREEL EDITORS—Charles P. Skouras, National Theatres
head, is shown here as host at a luncheon to newsreel editors at the St. Moritz
hotel on May 7 in behalf of the TOA Youth Month committee. Left to right: Peter
Levathes, 20th Century-Fox sales manager of news and shorts; James Dillon, Fox
West Coast Theatres; Henry Murdock, TOA public relations committee; Stanley W.
Prenosil, TOA; Sam Shaln, 20th-Fox director of exhibitor relations; Robert W.
CojTie, TOA executive director; Skouras; Ted R. Gamble, TOA president; Arthur De
Titta, Fox Movietone News assignment editor; Thornton Sargent, assistant to
Skouras; Alfred Butterfield, Warner-Pathe News editor; Jack Haney, Mox Movietone
News editor; George Doran, Universal News editor, and Walter Bredin, News of the Day.
Filmrows Free of Fire
Second Year in Row
WASHINGTON—The year 1947 marked the
second successive year free from fu'e loss for
over 400 film exchanges and shipping depots
handling more than 6,000,000 miles of inflammable
film annually, it was reported by
John B. McCuUough. director of MPAA's
conservation department, for Eric Johnston,
president.
McCullough said that the strict safety
methods used have kept the annual average
fire loss in MPAA member-operated exchanges
down to $220 during a 22-year
period. This, he said, "demonstrates the effectiveness
of the industry's conservation and
fire safety program and is a compliment to
the unstinted effort and cooperation so
freely given by branch exchange managers
who served as local conservation directors
during the year."
More than 4,400 exchange inspections were
made last year by local managers, who serve
on a rotating basis for six-month periods as
local safety inspectors. Although a few older
exchange buildings which do not measure up
to "desirable standards" were found, they "offer
a challenge to exchange operation executives
to be constantly on the alert and to relax
in no way their enforcement of the industry's
conservation regulations," McCullough
said.
Several new exchange buildings were completed
during the year by Warner Bros., RKO,
National Screen Service and Universal Pictues.
Lambs' 1st Public Gambol
Since War Held in N.Y.
NEW YORK—The Lambs club held its first
Public Gambol since Pearl Harbor at the
Waldorf-Astoria, Friday (14). The program
consisted of seven hom-s of entertainment—
cocktail party, dinner, dancing, floor show
and stage review featuring more than 300
actors. Bert LyteU, shepherd, or president,
presented the Gambol.
Ladies have been excluded from private
Gambols staged at the Lambs club house.
They were permitted at the Public Gambol.
The Lambs soon will celebrate its 75th anniversary.
MPAA Committee Elects
Republic, AA Members
NEW YORK—Madeline White of Allied
Artists and Steve Edwards of Republic Pictures
were unanimously elected members of
the advertising and publicity du'ectors committee
of the MPAA at the regular meeting
May 6. Allied Ai-tists and Republic recently
joined the MPAA.
'Saint' to Bijou May 20
NEW YORK—"Citizen
Saint," film version
of the life of Mother Cabrini. will open at
the Bijou Theatre Thursday, May 20. It
was produced by Clyde Elliott Attractions.
The picture was filmed largely in New York
at the RKO Pathe studio and in Chicago.
"Voice of
Theatre Speakers"
JOE HORNSTEIN has them!
-.1
i
50 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

'
ments
—
— ——
-
—
——
'ork
PHILADELPHIA
K:^:^.:^:^^.!:^^^^^
atre here. Bro^^^l. who was with the fihn
division of the Veterans administration until
a short time ago, was at one time a checker
at the Warner exchange . . . The Philco Corp.
has appointed Pi-ederick D. Ogilby as manager
of television sales . . . Henry T. Mm--
dock. who used to be film critic for the old
Ledger here and more recently was on the
Chicago Sun, is now on the press staff of
Theatre Owners of America in New York.
The board of directors of the Philadelphia
Retail Di-uggists Ass'n and members of local
law enforcement agencies saw special screenings
of "To the Ends of the Earth," arranged
by Columbia exploiteer Milt Young . . . Buster
Crabbe, film star-backer of the "Aqua
Parade of 1948," now in town, was hosted
by his local Sigma Chi fraternity . . . Ground
has been broken for a 15-acre shoppingamusement
center in Willow Grove, to include
a theatre, a super-market, department
store branch and specialty shops . . . The
Princess, first run center-city foreign film
house, is slated to get a new ventilating and
cooling system.
Julia Keuch, Warner bookkeeper, who is
leaving soon to get married, was feted with
a dinner and a shower by her co-workers
. . . Norman Whitman is the new student
booker at Universal-International ... At
Clark Film, inspector Martha Quinn and
Jean Murphy have resigned, being replaced
by Sylvia Pomerantz and Frank Spedder.
Film Council Luncheon Set
NEW YORK—The New York Film Council
will hold the first in a series of discussion
luncheons at the WiUiams club, 24 East 39th
St., Monday, May 19. The luncheons are
aimed at promoting production, distribution
and effective use of films in labor, medicine,
religion and industry. The first luncheon
will be devoted to films in labor, with four
labor leaders scheduled to speak.
Raytheon Moves Section
NEW YORK—Raytheon Manufacturing Co.
has moved its equipment sales and international
divisions and its subsidiaries, Russell
Electric Co. and Submarine Signal Co.,
to 50 Broadway. Tlie publicity and broadcast
equipment sales departments remain at
60 East 42nd St.
Hoosick Drive-In Opened
ALBANY—F. Chase Hathaway has opened
his new Hoosick Drive-In between Hoosick
! Falls and Bennington, Vt. Large advertisein
Troy newspapers listed bleachers
for walk-in patrons, in addition to ramps for
350 cars. Sylvan Leff of the Highland, Utica,
is buying and booking for the Hoosick.
Mrs. Ida Horwitz Dies
PHILADELPHIA- Mrs. Ida Horwitz, 72,
mother of Al Horwitz, eastern publicity manager
of Universal-International, died May 11
at her home here. Sei-vices were held at 734
Pine street May 12.
Mild Weather Brings Grosses Down
in Most of Broadway First Runs
NEW YORK—The year's first stretch of
balmy weather kept many potential picture
patrons outdoors with the result that business
at a majority of the Broadway first runs was
below average. The exceptions were "Homecoming,"
with its Gable-Turner draw, in its
second week at the Capitol; "State of the
Union," with its Tracy-Hepburn pull, in its
third week at the Radio City Music Hall, and
"Arch of Triumph," with its Bei-gman-Boyer
lure, in its third week at the Globe. "The
Brothers" also did good business in its first
week at the tiny Sutton.
The new pictures that opened during the
week were: "The Iron Curtain" at the Roxy,
"The Fuller Brush Man" at Loew's State and
"Will It Happen Again?" at the Rialto.
(Average Is 100)
;\stor Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House
(RKO), 7th wk - 80
Capitol—Homecoming (MGM), plus stage show,
2nd wk 135
Criterion—Casbah (U-I), 2nd wk 95
Globe—Arch of Triumph (UA), 3rd wk 120
Gotham—Whispering City (EL) 55
Loew's State Unconquered (Para), 2nd run; Who
Killed Doc Robin? (UA) 95
Mayiair Gentleman's Agreement (20th-Fox), 26th
wk 65
Paramount The Big Clock (Para), plus stage
show, 3rd wk
E8
Park Avenue—The Mikado (U-1), 4th wk 50
Radio City Music Hall—State of the Union (MGM),
plus stage show, 3rd wk 105
Rialto The Damned (Discinia Infl), 3rd wk 80
Rivoli Letter From an Unknown Woman (U-1),
2nd wk 75
Roxy Anna Karenina (20th-Fox), plus stage show,
2nd wk 75
y
Strand—The Woman in White (WB), plus stage
show 98
Sutton—The Brothers (U-l) - 120
Victoria—The Search (MGM), 7th wk 75
Warner—Winter Meeting (WB), 5th wk 40
Winter Garden—Dear Murderer (U-I) 80
Triumph' Takes Top Money
In Fair Philadelphia Week
PHILADELPHIA—Baseball and horse races
have taken a noticeable cut of theatre business
over the weekends. But the change to
first-week films after a long diet of holdovers
brightened a few lights along the rialto.
PAGE ONE AWARD—Ginger Rogers
gives the Newspaper Guild's annual
award for "outstanding achievement in
motion pictures" to Montgomery Clift,
one of the stars of Lazar Wechsler's production
of "The Search," at the Page
One Ball at Manhattan Center in New
York. Clift accepted in behalf of Wechsler.
However, the newcomers met with mixed
reaction. "Arch of Triumph" took top dollar,
and "State of the Union" was another fine
grosser. The over-all picture was not too
pretty again.
Aldine—So Well Remembered (RKO) 80
Arcadia—April Showers (WB), 2nd run, 2nd wk 80
Boyd—Arch oi Triumph (UA) 180
Eorle—To the Ends oi the Earth (Col) 130
Erlanger—I Remember Mama (RKO), 5th wk 80
Fox—Scudda Hool Scudda Hay! (20lh-Fox) 80
Goldman State ol the Union (MGM), 2nd wk 175
Karlton—The Big Clock (Para), Sth wk 90
Keith—The Bride Goes Wild (MGM), 2nd run 80
Mastbaum—The Woman in White (WB) 60
Pix—Lost Horizon (Col), Znd wk., reissue 95
Stanley—Fort Apache (RKO), 3rd wk 100
Stanton—Panhandle (Mono) 100
"Fort Apache' Killing Them
In Baltimore; 'Union' Is Next
BALTIMORE—Record temperatures were
recorded here last week. "Fort Apache" went
great guns in its first week with "State of
the Union" second best and "The Woman in
White" a distant third.
Century State of the Union (MGM), 2nd wk 130
Hippodrome Lady From Shanghai (Col), plus
stage show, 2nd wk - 85
Town—Fort Apache (RKO) 150
Keiths—Are You With It? (U-I), 2nd wk _ 82
New—Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hoy! (20th-Fox) 87
Mayfair—Panhandle (Mono), 2nd wk 75
Stanley—The Woman in White (WB) 100
"State of Union' Continues
Strong at Buffalo
BUFFALO-"State of the Union" continued
strong in a second downtown week. Rainstorms
and overcast weather held dovim
grosses.
Bulfalo—Duel ta the Sun (SRO) 85
Greol Lakes—State oi the Union (MGM) 100
Hippodrome—The Fighting 69th (WB); Volley of
the Giants (WB), reissues 100
20th Century—The Noose Hangs High (EL); The
Cobra Strikes (EL) 90
Teck—Seven Siimers (EL); Sutter's Gold (EL),
reissues — 57
Lafayette Adventares of Casanova (EL);
Bury Me Dead (EL) 85
Order Boxoffice Records
Produced in Fraud Suit
NEW YORK—Judge Knox of U.S. district
court for the southern district of New York
has ordered exhibitor defendant* in two percentage
fraud suits filed by Loew's and RKO
to produce theatre tickets, ticket stubs and
all admission receipt records on alleged instances
of fraudulent under-reporting of percentage
picture receipts. The defendants are
Sidney Cohen, Philip Eisenberg, Rhinebeck
Theatres, Inc., and Millerton Amusement
Corp.
Exhibitor defendants have been ordered
to produce boxoffice records in similar percentage
fraud suits in other sections of the
country.
Judge Knox ordered that theatre records
be produced covering the days on which the
pictures played and three days before and
three days after the run. He gave Loew's
and RKO permission to request inspection of
any other records they might need.
The theatres involved are: Starr, Rhine-,
beck; Lyceum, Red Hook; Pine Plains, Pine
Plains: Millerton, Millerton, aU in New York,
and the Stuart, Lakeville, Conn.
Gulistan Wilton Theatre Carpet
JOE HORNSTEIN has it !
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
51

ALBANY
Uellman's Palace in Troy was advertising
a "Giant Stage Attraction" for Satm-day
night . . . Warren Towle has resigned as
manager of the Saratoga Drive-In at Lathams,
and George Lourinia, a Hellman standby,
took over.
Neil Hellman and his dad Harry, who
has recovered from an operation, attended
the Variety Club dinner Monday night. Harry
reminisced about the experiments with "talking
pictures" he conducted at the old Fairyland
in 1912 and the city's first open air
theatre he opened two blocks from the Fairyland
the same year. Hellman had Joe Lee
and others work with him in synchronizing
behind-curtain dialog with action on the
screen of silent films.
Vivian Ferracci, senior in St. Barnabas
high school in New York, who has been offered
a contract by 20th Century-Fox, won the
eastern zone finals here of the Hearst oratorical
contest . . . Fred I. Archibald, publisher
of the Albany Times-Union and member
of the Variety Club, presided ... J. Myer
Schine, president of the Schine circuit,
stopped here briefly en route to New York
City two days after the supreme court announced
its decision in the Schine case. He
carried considerable reading material from
newspapers and trade magazines.
Charles Rossi, on Filmrow after several
months absence, announced that a $20,000
remodeling job was under way at his Paramount
Theatre in Schroon Lake. Last fall
the stage was enlarged and now the 450-
seat house is being given a complete change
of appearance. New equipment is to be installed
as well as new seats. The Joseph
Dobesh studio of New York is supervising redecorating.
The Paramount is operated only
during the summer months, Schroon Lake
being a resort town.
. . . Floyd
Mike Nuzzola, 20th-Fox salesman, is one
of Filrm'ow's leading animal fanciers owning
a trick dog and a riding horse
Fitzsimmons, Metro exploiteer, went to Troy
to work on "State of the Union" at Warners
Troy and to Glens Falls to set up a campaign
for "Homecoming" with Charley Daniels
Manager Al La-
of the Paramoimt . . . Flamme scheduled a "Cartoon Punfest" at
the Strand for Saturday morning . . . Mrs.
Lois Carr is a new cashier at the Strand.
She is from Duluth, Minn.
Johnny Gardner, owner of the Colony,
Schenectady, is building a 250-car drive-in at
Burlington, the first such theatre to be erected
in Vermont . . . "T-Men" played to hefty
weekend business at the Grand, according to
Saul J. Ullman, upstate general manager for
Fabian. He thinks the Eagle Lion picture
is a good one. Paul Bruce Pettit, WROW
critic, broadcast a rave notice on "T-Men."
A large exhibitor turnout on Filmrow Monday
included Charles Gordon, owner of the
Olympic, Utica, and his son-in-law and assistant,
George Smith; Mrs. Helen Hadley,
the Valley, Schaghticoke; Mrs. Percy Quigley
and Julia Dolan, the Coxsackie, Coxsackle;
Jules Perlmutter, the Rivoli, Schenectady;
Phil Baroudi, operating theatres in North
Creek and Warrensburg; Mrs. Mary Flanigan,
secretary to Walter Wertime of the
Chester, Chestertown.
The Warner exchange will launch a sales
drive May 22 . . . Myron "Mike" Kallet, head
of the Kallet circuit, returned from a Florida
vacation . . . C. J. Latta, upstate zone manager
for Warners, scotched rumors that he
was scheduled for a job in another district.
Latta said: "There is no truth in the reports
I am going elsewhere. I don't know
where these stories started, but I can say
they are without foundation."
Some subsequent run exhibitors are said
to be complaining about the percentage terms
Universal-International asks for "The Naked
City" . . . "State of the Union" played to
heavy weekend business at the Palace.
Frank Wenz is assistant to Manager Oscar
Perrin at the Ritz, succeeding Rodger Apple,
who resigned to take a position with the
. . . "Black Bart" and "Are
Order of Eagles
You With It?" opened strong at the Ritz
after "The Naked City" closed an 18-day
engagement. Men predominated in the first
day's audiences.
Intensive promotion of Paramount's short
subjects was urged by Oscar A. Morgan, the
short subjects head of sales department, in a
meeting at the local exchange Tuesday. Monroe
R. Goodman, his assistant, also spoke.
They were Introduced by branch manager
Eddie Ruff. Also at the session were Ed
Wall, publicity and advertising director;
Jirrmiy Moore, salesman, and Pete Holman
and Jim Frangooles, bookers. Morgan and
Goodman left for Buffalo.
Don Shepard, projectionist at the Paramount,
Is a charter member of Local 324,
which was formed in 1913. He was out of
the operating field for a time and worked
for Joe Hornstein's supply house in New
York. Tony Romalne, electrician at the
Strand, is another old-timer . . . Plans filed
with the city building commissioner indicate
that Fabian's Grand is to be renamed
the State after it is remodeled. The house
has been known as the Grand since it opened
in 1913.
. . .
Police arrested an 18-year-old boy who
sneaked into the Palace Theatre with the
aid of a friend. In trying to run away he
crashed through a glass door. Manager Alex
Sayles made the complaint of disorderly
conduct The Colonial, home of foreign
pictures, played its second revival bill within
a month, showing "Bringing Up Baby" and
"39 Steps."
Albany Variety to Conduct
Golf Tourney in June
ALBANY — Plans for the annual golf
tournament of the Variety Club were made at
a meeting of the crew Monday night prior
to the weekly dinner in Keeler's restaurant.
Nate Winig, one of the tent's most active
nonindustry members, was named chairman
of the general committee. The affair will be
held some time in June.
A special report of the heart fund committee
was submitted by C. J. Latta. The fund's
principal activity is the Variety-Albany Boys
club summer camp in the Helderbergs. Chief
Barker Harry Lamont said 55 boys would be
entertained at the camp each week of the
1948 season.
Following the dinner, a general meeting
was held in the club rooms over the Warner
Theatres offices.
MONOGRAM INTERNATIONALITES HOSTED—The above were snapped at
a
dinner in a Chinese restaurant. C Y. Tom, president of the Chinamerica Film
Exchange of Hongkong, gave the dinner in honor of Norton V. Ritchey, president of
Monogram International Corp. and his staff. Left to right: Margo Lee, actress;
Mrs. William E. Osborne; Ritchey; Nellie Witting; William E. Osborne, far eastern
supervisor; Tom; Edward Murray; David D. Home; H. Y. Lin, secretary of the Chinese
consulate In New York.
Hear Judge Justine Poller
NEW YORK—Judge Justine Wise Poller
of domestic relations court addressed guests
at a tea in the home of Mrs. Marshall Field,
co-chairman of the special events committee
of the Wiltwyck Aid to Youth drive for
the Wiltwyck School for Boys in Esopus,
N. Y. Mrs. Field and Mrs, Edward M. M.
Warburg are engaged in a fund-raising program
for a quota of $1,000,000. The campaign
will be launched at the benefit opening
of "The Time of Your Life" (UA) at the
Mayfair Theatre May 25.
Silent Film Star in Cast
A top featured role in Metro's "The Three
Godfathers" has been given Mae Marsh, a
star of silent films.
52 BOXOFFICE : : May
15, 1948

'
I
I Your
. . Jack
. . Mike
life' Premiere Opens
Wiltwyck Campaign
NEW YORK—Leaders in the entertainment
and sports fields and in society will
attend the benefit opening of "The Time of
Life" (UAi at Harry Brandt's May fair
Theatre May 25. Proceeds will go to the
Wiltwyck school for delinquent boys at
Esopus, N. Y. Mrs. Franklin D. Roosevelt,
whose late husband was actively interested
in the school, will act as honorary chairman
of the opening. The opening will launch
a campaign to raise $1,000,000 for Wiltwyck
over a three-year period.
Alfred Vanderbilt is chairman of the fund
drive. He wUl name chairmen of the theatre
and sports committees for the opening. Mrs.
Roosevelt will address the audience before the
showing. The opening night committee is
headed by Mrs. Marshall Field and Mrs
Edward Warburg.
Sponsors of the opening include Mrs. Vincent
Astor, Mrs. Gordon Aymar, Mrs. Dixon
Boardman, Mrs. Howard Cullman, Mrs. Otis
Chatfield-Taylor, Mrs. Alfred Harrison, Lil-
Uan Hellman, Mrs. Sydney Kingsley, Mrs.
Christy Knight, Mrs. Lawrence Lowman, Mrs.
Everett Morrow, Mrs. Henry Paris II, and
Mrs. Donald Stralem.
The film was produced by William Cagney.
It stars James Cagney, William Bendix.
Wayne Morris, Jean Cagney.
'Berlin Express' Is Set
For Victoria on B'way
NEW YORK—"Berlin Express," RKO picture
starring Merle Oberon, Robert Ryan and
Paul Lukas, will be open at the Victoria Theatre
May 20.
The picture was originally set to open at
the Palace Theatre before the former RKO
first run showcase switched to a double-bill
subsequent run policy late in April. Other
RKO first runs set for Broadway are Walt
Disney's "Melody Time," which will open at
the Astor May 27, and "Fort Apache," which
will open at the Capitol some time in June.
'Forest' Set for Rivoli
NEW YORK—"Another Part of the Forest,"
Universal-International picture starring Fredric
March, Dan Duryea, Ann Blyth and
Edmond O'Brien, will open at the Rivoli
Theatre May 18. following the current "Letter
From an Unknown Woman."
Fox on EL Press Books
NEW YORK—Ellas Fox has joined Eagle
Lion as press book writer. He was formerly
with the press and merchandising departments
of Max Rogel and Associates. He also
wrote for motion picture trade papers.
DRINK TO HUMMEL—The above photo was taken at the French foreign
office
after the official ceremony during which Joseph S. Hummel, Warner Bros. European
manager, was decorated with the French Legion of Honor. Left to right: Mr. Fourre-
Cormeray, general director of the Centre National de la Cinematographic; Mrs. Jack
L. Warner, Mrs. J. S. Hummel, J. S. Hummel, Madame Bidault, wife of the French
foreign minister; Maitre Paul Weill, Maitre Suzanne Blum and Joseph H. Westreich
of Warners European head office.
HARRISBURG
Deported opposition by Catholic clergy and
officials is rumored to be the cause of the
sudden change of billing at the Colonial last
week, from "The Outlaw" to the reissue of
"The Fighting 69th." Ads had been running
in newspapers for "The Outlaw," and the
print was on hand when the show was withdrawn.
Cashiers were deluged with queries,
as was the Colonial office, which replied the
picture was postponed." Jack O'Rear, manager,
held a private screening for press and
trade.
The drive to raise funds to combat cancer
ended here last week, with the presentation
of grand prizes in a jingle contest from the
State stage. Bob Sidman, Senate manager,
was publicity chau'man for the campaign . . .
The new makeup of the theatre pages of the
Patriot and the Evenmg News has attracted
much favorable comment from moviegoers as
well as persons in the industry. Reviews are
spotted as separate stories, and the former
Curtain Rises column has been discontinued
in the morning paper. Dick McCrone continues
to write Home Town Fan Fare for the
News, but includes only personality stuff.
. . Harry Chubb,
Harry Kuh, advance man for Buster
Crabbe's "Aqua Parade," was in town this
week. The show will play at Hershey early
in June . Trumbo, assistant manager
at the Colonial, was in Pottsville recently,
his mother accompanying him . Weiss
of 20th-Fox was in town, as was Lou Golding,
Fabian area manager .
publicity director for the Hershey Estates
and manager of the Hershey Community
Theatre, is back at work after a lengthy illness.
. . . Mr.
Midge Funk Brennan, veteran Senate
cashier, who has been with her husband, a
marine, at Oceanside, Calif., plans to return
home for a visit early next month .
and Mrs. Ed Fabian,
. .
New York, were
Mr.
local
visitors, staying at the Hershey hotel and
visiting Fabian houses in the area
and Mrs. Lynn A. Creason announced the
birth of a son. Mrs. Creason was Joanne
Yost, daughter of Walter F. Yost, theatre
owner. Creason is in business with his fatherin-law.
Carter Barron, Loew's area manager, visited
Sam Oilman at Loew's Regent, recently . . .
The first issue of the Amusement Digest is
expected this week, Hy Resnik, the publisher,
reports. The Digest will be distributed free
to all patrons of Fabian theatres, the State.
Colonial and Rio, and will contain 35 per cent
news of Interest to theatre fans as well as
fashions, recoi'ds, and local gossip.
Altec Installations
NEW YORK—Altec Lansing's Voice of the
Theatre horn systems have been purchased
by the following theatres: Vestal, Vestal,
N. Y.; Walker, Richmond, Va.; Garfield,
Brooklyn, N. Y.; Plaza, Milford. Del.; New
Delancy, New York, N. Y.: Mancuso. Batavla,
N. Y., and the Capitol, Pawtucket, R. I.
You con get your
SPECIRL TRAILERS
BY
THE TIME
GOING TO YOUR NEAREST
ACK
BRANCH
New York
245 Weil
55th St.
Chicagb
1321 S.
Waboth-
Los
Angeles
1574 W.
Woshingron
^j£e SM i9i)0e a/oA.
WAHOO
America's finest Screen Came
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
831 South Wabash Avenue • Chicago, Illinois
BOXOFFICE : : May
15, 1948 53

Jean
. . . The
. . Inspector
. . Camilla
'
'
'
'
'
;
'
'
'
WASHINGTON
fl nita Colby, making a nationwide tour in
the interest of Paramount's "Emperor
Waltz " proved that beauty and brains malce
a powerful combination when she met the
drama critics, trade press, and radio commentators
at a beautifully appointed luncheon
in the Mayflower hotel May 12. Miss
Colby also made several radio broadcasts.
Deep into "the forest primeval" went Loew's
Carter Barron and Don Bernard of the Washington
Post and party, not in search of Evangeline,
but for some good trout fishing. They
spent last week living out of doors, paddling
their own canoes, and doing all the chores
necessary to m.ake their vacation an unforgettable
one. Barron is proud of the fact
that he was made a member of the MicMac
tribe of Indians who live in the Nova Scotia
woods.
The Sig'mund Romberg concert, sponsored
by the Variety Club Tuesday evening in
Constitution hall, was acclaimed an artistic
success. Present were Pi'esident and Mrs.
Harry Ti-uman, Margaret Truman, as well
as a responsive audience of congressmen,
senators, members of the diplomatic corps,
and army, navy and air corps officials. In
charge of arrangements were Carter T. Barron
and Sam Galanty, co-chairmen; Clark
Davis and Harry Bachman. ways and means
committee; George Crouch and Eugene Kramer,
welfare committee; Nathan Golden and
Fred Kogod, executive committee; Leon
Makover, ticket committee; Joe Kronman,
souvenir committee, and Dorothy Kolinsky,
Variety Club secretary. Eddie Morris handled
all tickets at the symphony boxoffice
at Kitts music store.
OPEN IN SOUTH HILL—This is the
new Star Theatre, 520-seater opened in
South Hill, Va., in February by Chris W.
Geoghegan. The house serves the counties
of Mecklenburg, Lunenburg and
Brunswick. Geoghegan has operated the
Colonial Theatre in South Hills for 15
years. The Star has a front of structural
glass, beige in color, with wine trim;
an auditorium decorated in different
shades of blue; blue and maroon seats;
and a cry room for mothers with infants.
The house is air conditioned.
Benson and his boys are getting ready for
the corrupany's sales convention in Philadelphia
next week.
Margaret O'Brien will be a guest at the
Variety Club mothers' Imicheon at the Shoreham
hotel May 17 . . . Republic Branch Manager
Jake Flax spent several days in New
York this week .
Gladys Dixon
is vacationing
. "Mac" Woodson
is coming along nicely at Emergency hospital'
and would be glad to hear from her friends,
Frances Fischer, daughter of Columbia's
Bill Fisher, is making a reputation for herself
as a swimmer. She won first and second
prizes in the competitive swinuning meet at
the Jewish Community center this week
Booker Jimmy Whiteside is on vacation ...
Inspector Tibbie Minnick has returned from
her vacation and inspector M. Goulet left
on her vacation.
Jeannette Magruder came in town to book
for her Garden Theatre in Cumberland, Md.
gin match between the Washington'
and Baltimore Variety clubs wound up with
Baltimore winning
now managing the
17-15 . . . Jean Imhoff isi
Little Theatre, with Vic
Orsinger handling the reins at
new Playhouse.
the beautiful'
I
Meyer Emanuel (Manny to you) was again
awarded a two-year contract by the U.S.
government to operate the Arlington Farms
Theatre in Recreation hall, Arlington Farms,
Va., effective June 1. Theatre was originally
built in 1944 as a recreation hall for army
and navy personnel and was part of a setup
of nine dormitories which housed women government
employes and Waves. In 1946 the
Waves were transfen-ed and three of the
dormitories were converted into apartments
for army officers and their families. The
remaining six buildings are still used as
dormitories for girls. The recreation hall is,
a separate unit comprising bowling alleys.
snack bar and theatre. The theatre operates
'
Sunday afternoon and evening and Tuesday
evening only.
Kay Ellen Fruchtman celebrated her birthday
May 12 with a birthday party for her
friends in Greenbelt . . . Mrs. Bertha Gordon
of Gordon Theatres, Nevi^jort News, Va., flew
in to visit her daughter and son-in-law, Mr.
and Mrs. Nat Wasserman, this week . . . Bill
Wrenn came in to book his Pound and Coebm-n
Theatres.
A. A. Schubart, RKO exchange operations
head, was in tovm last Thursday . . . Another
visitor at RKO was Malcolm Scott, in charge
of the company's 16mm division . . . Frank
Boucher, K-B Amusement Co., was at 20th-
Fox . . . Jack Howe, Paramount booker, celebrated
his birthday Sunday . . . Helen
.
. . .
Schultz, contract head, is vacationing in Florida
.. Browoilee is still vacationing
Ditto shipper Roy Fitzgerald . . . Al
ROADSHOW PROJECTION
16 MM 35 MM
THE HARVEY WILLIAM CO.
Box 1188. Plainlield, N. J.
Ploiniield 6-1763
* ST CLASS DISTRIBUTION FOR
^ THE ENTIRE SOUTH — thru
J(IOHN) Q iQ (O. K.)
ENKINS OC JD( OURGEOIS
ASTOR PICTURES COMPANY
HARWOOD & JACKSON STS.. DALLAS 1, TEX.
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kogod are grandparents
for the fourth time. Daughter Mildred
Tommy
gave birth to a son last week . . .
Rosa has returned to the K-B circuit as manager
of the Senator Theatre after an absence
of two years . . . Mr. and Mrs. Albert Kogod,
who make their home in Rio de Janiero, are
visiting the Fi'ed Kogods .
Leese is
. . Barbara Jean
Frank Boucher's new secretary,
placing Nan Hanum.
re-
The K-B Amusement Co. has completed
plans for the new Flower Theatre at the corner
of Piney Branch road and Flower avenue,
Takoma Park, Md. Construction will get
under way within the next 30 days. House
will be "the last word" in theatre construction
and will seat 950. Adjoining will be a
parking lot for 1,000 cars and 12 stores. This
is K-B's first venture outside of the District
limits. John Zink is the architect.
Charles Schlaifer, 20th-Fox advertising and
publicity head, will be guest speaker at the
monthly Advertising club luncheon at the
Statler hotel Tuesday, May 18 . . . Booker
Anne Griffin is entertaining her aimt, Mrs.
Belle Shaug'hnessy, from Minneapolis. They
made a trip to New York over the weekend
and while there visited Fi-ances Levin, secretary
to William Scully, Univeral Chief
Sales Manager Gordon Contee
. . .
accompanied
salesman Joe Cohan to Baltimore this week
. . . Bill Michalson, public relations, visited
exhibitors in Norfolk, Richmond and Newport
News this week, setting up exploitation on
"Green Grass of Wyoming."
Warner Theatres r A. Julian Brylawski, head
:
of '
the realty department, worked with Prank
Boucher and •
Eugene Kramer as co-chainnan
of the amusement division of the United
Jewish Appeal . . . Billy Brantley, formerly
in charge of the stock room, is now a navy
flyer . . . Virginia Summers of contact is
'
enjoying two weeks' vacation in Roanoke,
Va. Earl Yates of contact spent Mother's
day with his mother in Binghamton, N. Y.
.
'
. . Mr.
Max Cohen, Film Classics manager, accompanied
salesman Harold Levy on the eastern
shore this week , . . Jerry Lubin, home office
auditor, was in for a routine check . . . Ralph
DeBurgos resigned from Film Classics as
sales manager and is now selling for Screen
Guild . Ross Wheeler, Screen Guild manager,
.
was in Norfolk .
Wheeler and daughter Joan
and
have
Mrs. Sam
found a
beautiful apartment in Los Angeles and are
happily settled . . . Mrs. Louis 'Wiieeler,
mother of Sam Wheeler who fractured her
Pittsbiu-gh . . . May Feldman's niece, little
hip recently, is recovering in a hospital in
Ellen Duberstein, is recuperating from a siege
of pneumonia.
Praise Red Cross Job
WASHINGTON—Frank K. Shaffer, manager
of Warners' Dixie Theatre in Staimton,
Va., has won plaudits for his work as general
chairman of the Red Cross drive in his locality.
With his assistants, Shaffer earned
the editorial approval of the Staunton Evening
Leader. Staunton and Augusta exceeded
the assigned goal of $13,475 in the
1948 American Red Cross financial campaign.
i|
54 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

i
Legal Bingo Rejected
In Jersey Assembly
TRENTON—The New Jersey assembly has
rejected a bill to legalize bingo for churches
and charity groups. Exhibitors, led by the
Allied Theatre Owners of New Jersey, have
been fighting the measure.
A bill was introduced about a month ago to
permit communities to license bingo if first
okayed in a statewide referendum. The bill
had been referred to the judiciary committee.
A move to get the bill out of committee
and onto the floor for a vote was turned
down Wednesday 29 to 14.
The legislature was scheduled to recess
Mav 15.
Para Stockholder Suit
Ready Soon for Trial
NEW YORK—The stockholder suit filed
against Paramount Pictures by Leah Schanfarber
last June is scheduled for trial in
the U.S. district court in the next few weeks.
Another stockholder suit filed at the same
time against Barney Balaban, Paramount
president, by Samuel Horwitz, probably will
be tried in the district court next fall. Both
cases also were filed with the New York
supreme court.
Abraham Pomerantz, attorney for the
plaintiffs, recently held the first of two
examinations of Balaban. The second will
take place soon.
In the suit against Paramount, the plaintiff
challenged the right of the corporation
to lend $3,000,000 to the Employes Investment
Co. which had been organized to help
top executives buy Paramount stock.
The Balaban suit was filed over $2,000,000
worth of stock options. The plaintiff charged
that the terms of the deal gave Balaban a
"free tax ride" at the expense of the corporation
and that the options were excessive.
Stars Help Rescue Victims
Of Wind Wreckage on Set
NEWARK—When heavy winds toppled a
350-ton steel scaffolding and several big reflectors
dui-ing the filming of "You Gotta
Stay Happy" at Newark airport, Jimmy
Stewart and Eddie Albert, film stars, became
real life heroes.
A scene showing Stewart climbing into a
jeep and leaving the airport, was about to be
retaken when the crash came. Stewart was
about 75 feet away. He and Albert rushed
to the rescue and worked furiously clearing
the WTeckage and giving first aid.
Nine persons were injured, three seriously.
Joan Fontaine, heroine of the film, was not
on the set at the time. Most seriously injui'ed
were Amelia Beaver, wardrobe assistant;
Charles R. Gaines. Albert's standin, and Jack
Rohan, wardrobe assistant. Miss Beaver was
reported to be in a serious condition. Lester
Laurance, another actor, was treated for
shock.
Eliminate Alvin Clearance
Over Astor, North Bergen
NEW YORK—The film arbitrator has
eliminated all clearances granted by the Big
Five in favor of the Alvin Theatre, Guttenberg,
N. J., over the Astor Theatre, North
Cagney Explains Independents Need
To Scatter Their Releasing Deals
NEW YORK—There is a growing trend
among independent producers to scatter their
pictures among several distributors, according
to William Cagney, president of William
Cagney Productions. He explained that an
independent must stay in production to survive,
and scattered deals assure him that he
won't have several properties tied up waiting
to get before the cameras.
Cagney arrived from Hollywood recently
to set release plans on "TTie Time of Your
Life," his latest UA release. His current contract
calls for one more picture to be delivered
to UA wathin the next two years.
He remarked that many independents are
wary of producing overseas because of "the
general confusion tJhat exists." He pointed out
that while a producer could cut costs 50 per
cent by filming overseas, this could be accomplished
only if he could maintain a rapid
shooting schedule. Cagney considers this unlikely.
He mentioned Britain as an example.
A picture that could be shot in Hollywood
in 40-60 days would take 100-110 days to film
in England, he said. Cagney also stressed
that Hollywood tecihnicians are far superior
to any overseas.
Cagney said he is free to sign a release
deal with any company. He may reopen talks
with Warners. There also is a possibility he
will
renew with UA on a nonexclusive basis.
A selection of stars may influence his choice
of distributors.
Cagney explained moves by some independents
to tie up with majors on long term
deals as a cautious way of doing business.
One drawback is that you spend 50 per cent
of your budget on overhead by producing on
a major's lot, he declared. Cagney wants
to remain as "independent as possible."
He believes production costs have reached
their peak, and pointed out producers are
Bergen. This award was made in a clearance
complaint filed by Norman Bialek and Martin
Fessler, operators of the Astor.
The arbitrator also denied a request by the
complainants that pictures should be made
available to the Astor not later than 24 days
after their rmi at Loew's Embassy, North
Bergen, and RKO's Capitol, Union City.
Monogram, British Pathe
Close Distribution Deal
LONDON—Norton V.
Ritchey, president of
Monogram International, has arrived to close
a reciprocal distribution agreement with
Pathe Pictures. Under the terms. Monogram
or Allied Artists will handle western hemisphere
distribution of three completed Associated
British films, "Temptation Harbour,"
starring Simone Simon," "Brighton
Rock," with Richard Attenborough and "My
Brother Jonathan."
Monogram will shortly begin production
in England of a series of films under the
auspices of Associated British Pictures. These
will be distributed in the British Isles by
Pathe Theatres.
Universal 30-Year Man
NEW YORK—George J. Epp, Universal
home office projectionist, has celebrated his
30th anniversary with the company.
Producer William Cagfney (right) is
greeted by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt,
general chairman of the fund-raising
drive for the Wiltwyck School for Boys.
Cagney's "The Time of Your Life" will
premiere at the Mayfair in New York,
May 26, with all proceeds going to the
school. (More data on page 53.
spending less for story properties. There also
is a tendency to return to faster 1940 shooting
schedules, he declared. Production costs
now are triple the 1940 level, he added.
Cagney said independents have no difficulty
securing bank loans if they keep their budgets
under the $3,000,000 mark and guarantee
star value. On the other hand, he declared,
a too-low budget linuts chances for success.
Cagney has about five story properties lined
up, including "A Lion in the Streets," "Only
the Valiant," "The Stray Lamb" and "Too
Many Boats." "Lion" and "Valiant" probably
will be next on his shooting schedule.
United Artists has a $250,000 interest in
"The Time of Your Life." The picture stars
James Cagney.
Home Office Employes
Open Wage Hike Talks
NEW YORK—The Motion Picture Home
Office Employes Local H-63, lATSE. has
opened negotiations for pay increases of 12
and one-half per cent for white collar workers
in ten film company offices, according to
Russell Moss, business agent of H-63. A 35-
hour week and increased vacations will also
be asked. The companies include Warner
Bros., Ace Laboratories and Robbins Music
Corp., where present contracts expire May
31, and Universal, United World, Universal
Newsreel and Castle Films, where present
contracts expire June 30.
Local H-63 has signed a new contract with
News of the Day providing for $5 to $10
weekly pay increases for home office and
shipping room employes, plus three-week
vacations for workers with ten years service.
Representatives of H-63 and Warner Bros.
met with Arthm- Younger, National Relations
Board officer. May 13 to set a date for
the holding of a home office employes' election.
In accordance with the provisions of
the Taft-Hartley law, the election must be
held prior to negotiations on a new contract
to determine whether workers want a union
shop. Shop elections for Universal, Universal
Newsreel, United World and Castle Films will
be held before the end of May, Moss said.
BOXOFFICE :
: May 15, 1948 N 54A

WB Zone Managers at Home Office
ADDRESSES WARNER MEETING—Jack L. Warner, executive producer, addresses
a group of Warner Bros, home office executives and district sales managers
at a two-day meeting called by Ben Kalmenson at the company's home office. Left
to right: Robert Smeltzer, Roy Haines, Harry Seed, Norman H. Moray, Harry M.
Kalmine, Samuel Schneider, Warner, Ben Kalmenson, Mort Blumenstock, Ed Hinchy,
Jules Lapidus, Jack Warner jr., F. D. Moore, Charles Baily, R. A. McGuire and Sam
Lefkowitz.
NEW YORK — Han-y Kalmine, president
and general manager of Warner Bros. Theatres,
presided at a zone managers' meeting
Lust Starts Construction
Of Virginia Drive-In
WASHINGTON—Sidney B. Lust, veteran
Washington and Mai-yland exhibitor, has begun
construction of a 750-car drive-in theatre
between Hampton and Newport News, Va.
in conjunction with the Tidewater Theatres,
Inc. Opening date is set for early July.
Located on the southside of 39th street, extended,
the new drive-in will cost approximately
$150,000 and wUl be equipped with
RCA individual in-car speakers, moonlight
lighting, high-power projection, hard-surfaced
ramps and other late developments in
drive-in design.
Associated with Lust in the project are
James M. Barnes and Thurman Hill of Washington,
and Harry H. Holt jr. of Hampton,
Architectural design is by George M. Petersen,
who has more than 150 drive-ins to his
credit. Lust also operates the Drive-In Theatre
at Beltsville, Md., rated as one of
America's finest. In addition, he directs a
circuit of nine conventional theatres in Washington
and subm-ban Maryland, and also has
theatrical interests in Alexandria, Va.
at the home office May 12.
Zone managers attending were: James Coston,
Chicago: Nat Wolf, Cleveland; I. J.
Hoffman, New Haven: Frank Damis, Newark;
C. J. Latta, Albany; Ted Schlanger, Philadelphia;
M. A. Silver, Pittsburgh: John J.
Payette, Washington, and Ben Wallerstein,
Hollywood.
The film buyers present were: Alex Halperin,
Chicago: Ted Minsky, Cleveland; Bert
Jacocks and Max Hoffman, New Haven; Sam
Blaskey, Newark: Max Friedman, Albany;
John Turner, Philadelphia; Harry Feinstein.
Pittsburgh; George Crouch, Washington, and
Leo MiUer, Hollywood.
Home office executives present were; M.
Alben. C. E. Bond, F. Cahill. H. Copelan, Zeb
Epstein, Nat Fellman, H. Goldberg, L. J.
Kaufman. H. Maier, F. Marshall, W. S. Mc-
Donald, F, Phelps, H. Rodner, H, Rosenquest,
D. Triester and B. Wirth.
In Television Division
NEW YORK—Paramount has made four
additional promotions in its television division.
Richard Hodgson, technical assistant
to Paul Raibourn, vice-president, has been
named director of technical operations. Carl
Maurer who has been with the television
for the last four years has been named supervisor
of development engineering. Maurer
has been working on Paramount's theatre
television system.
Walter Swenson has been promoted to
supervisor of studio operations, and Theodore
Grenier has been appointed supervisor of remote
operations for theatre television pickups.
These promotions make a total of seven
in recent weeks in the television division.
Film Vets to Give Blood
NEW YORK—The motion picture
chapter
of the American Veterans committee has
voted to contribute blood to the Red Star of
David of Palestine and service uniforms of
its individual members to the Hebrew fighting
forces there. Sam Geison is chairman of
the AVC chapter.
Park Ave. Sublease
Deal Is Under Way
NEW YORK—Universal-International is
negotiating a deal to .sublease the Park Avenue
Theatre to Nat Sanders, president of
English Films. U-I has about eight and a half
years to run on its original ten-year lease
with Walter Reade.
Both Reade and U-I have found it difficult
to get product for the Park Avenue. Reade
opened the house in the fall of 1946 on a subscription
seat basis for the de luxe trade. Advanced
admissions were charged. Reade's inability
to get product prompted him to lease
the house to U-I in December of that year.
Since that time U-I has had not set policy
on product. It has played its own J. Arthur
Rank releases, "Henry V" (UA), some Allied
Artists films, reissues and several English
Films releases.
First Quarterly Earnings
For Paramount Reported
NEW YORK—Paramount Pictures, Inc.,
estimates its earnings for the first quarter
ended April 3, 1948, at $7,760,000, after all
charges including estimated provision for
taxes on income. This amount includes
$1,846,000, representing Paramount's direct
and indirect net interest as stockholder in
the comlbined undistributed earnings for the
quarter of partially-owned non-consolidated
subsidiaries and approximately $650,000 of
non-recurring income.
Earnings for the quarter ended April 5,
1947, were estimated at $9,522,000, including
$1,700,000 share of imdistributed earnings of
partially-owned non-consolidated subsidiaries.
The $7,760,000 of estimated combined consolidated
and share of undistributed earnings
for the quarter represent $1.11 per share
on the 6,987,039 shares outstanding and in
the hands of the public April 3, which compares
with $1.30 per share for the quarter
ended April 5, 1947, on 7.303,972 shares then
outstanding.
The Paramount board of du-ectors also declared
the regular quarterly dividend of 50
cents per share on the common stock, payable
June 25, 1948, to stockholders of record
June 4.
Four Managers Roused
To Find Sleeping Child
PHILADELPHIA—A 7-year-old-boy had a
good nap at the Jen-y Theatre, but four theatre
managers lost a lot of sleep looking for
him. Robert Green left home in time to make
the 2 p. m. show at the Jerry. By closing
time at 11 p. m.. the boy was fast asleep in
his seat, and was locked in the theatre.
Frantic parents scoured the neighborhood,
then called police. They knew the lad had
gone to a show, but did not know to which
one in the immediate neighborhood. So managers
of the Stafford, the Peim and the Lyric
were routed from their beds and their theatres
searched. Of course, the lad was found
at the last theatre on the list, the Jerry.
54B
NEW MIRROPHONIC SOUND
JOE HORNSTEIN, Inc.
630 Ninth Ave, N«w York City
Reg. U. S. Pat. Off.
ATTENDANCE BOOSTER
For Information, Write. Wire or Phone
FOTO-PAY-DAY, INC.
161 W. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee 3, Wis.
'Furia' Is Reclassified
NEW YORK—The National Legion of
Decency has changed the classification of
"Furia" (PC I, Italian release, from C-condemned,
to B-morally objectionable in part
for all. The film was reclassified after revisions
were made.
BOXOFTICE : : May 15, 1948
A

. . Mr.
. .
—
Ball Games Squeeze
Schenectady Colony
ALBANY—Sunday and night baseball is
again providing serious competition for
Schenectady theatres. The Schenectady
team won the pennant in its first year in the
Canadian-American league and established
a new attendance record last season. Owner
Johnny Gardner of the Colony Theatre says
he has listed in his schedule btxik Sunday
"opposition" from this source for most of the
season.
The Albany Eastern league team provides
strong opposition to film houses here, but
this has been the case for years and exhibitors
are accustomed to it. Other cities of the exchange
district represented in organized baseball
are Utica, which had a flag winner in
1947; Amsterdam, Gloversville and Oneonta.
Capitol to Play 'Apache/
First RKO Since '44
NEW YORK—Tlie Capitol Theatre, Loew's
Broadway showcase, will run its first RKO
release in four years with "Fort Apache."
The firm is scheduled to follow "The Bride
Goes Wild" iMGM) which will open after
the current film. "Homecoming." "Tender
Comrade" with Ginger Rogers was the last
RKO pictm-e to play the house. The time
was June 1944.
Now that the Palace is a second rim theatre,
RKO has no Broadway outlet. Recent
RKO films have played at the Music Hall,
("I Remember Mama"i, the Rivoli ("Miracle
of the Bells"), and at the Victoria ("The
Fugitive.") Samuel Goldwyn productions,
released through RKO, play the Astor. The
next picture scheduled for the Astor is Walt
Disney's "Melody Time." which will replace
"Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House"
May 26. "Blandings" was produced by RKO
and released by Selznick Releasing Organization.
'Blandings' House Replica
To Benefit Heart Ass'n
NEW YORK—A repUca of "Mr. Blandings'
Dream House" from the SRO film. "Mr.
Blandings Builds His Dream House," is being
constructed at Fifth Ave. and 48th St. It
will be displayed to the public for the benefit
of the New York Heart Ass'n about May 20.
The house is one of 70 being erected throughout
the country as part of the pre-release
campaign on the SRO picture. The film will
be released nationally in June. It is now in
a pre-release run at the Astor Theatre.
The Blandings house here has eight rooms
and a two-car garage. A subscription contest
benefiting the Heart Ass'n will be held,
and the house will be awarded to the winner.
Enterprise Is Shooting
Garfield Film in East
NEW YORK—John Garfield, star of
"Tucker's People," and Abe Polonsky, director,
have arrived to film part of the Bob
Roberts production for Enterprise in Manhattan.
Accompanying Garfield and Polonsky
are: Bob Aldrich, assistant director;
Walter Thompson, cutter; George Yohalem,
production manager, and a camera crew.
The schedule calls for two weeks work in
New York, during which time they will be
working on Riverside Drive, The Tombs,
East 86th street and Central Park South.
BALTIMORE
Den Lamo, assistant to Jim McCarthy of
the Strand in Hartford, has checked into
Johns Hopkins hospital for an operation .
Fred Sande, district manager for Equity and
Cliff Jarrett were in the western Maryland
teiTitory ... A time extension has been
granted by the city council on a permit to
build a theatre at Lohrs lane and Hilton
avenue . . . O. D. Weems, chief barker of
Variety Tent 19, has named James H. Pollack,
former member of the Maryland boxing
coimnission as chairman of a committee
to promote a world's championship fight
in Baltimore stadium this summer.
Harry Valentine, former manager of the
Rome circuit, has been appointed general
manager of the Lyon circuit in Portsmouth,
Va., Hal Lyon reports . . . Mrs. Ike Weiner,
wife of the Waldorf owner, who has been ill,
is now rapidly recuperating.
The Laffmovie recently cooperated with
the PTA. religious and child welfare groups,
in conducting a contest on "What I like to
see in the movies and why" among the yoimg
patrons. Winners in the teen-age group were
given an all-expense tour to New York . . .
The brother-in-law of John Russum, Valencia
operator, died in Springfield, Ohio.
. . .
Ray Trumbule, New Theatre in Leonardtown,
is donating the proceeds from a showing
of "Cynthia" to help defray the cost of
improvements to the Memorial park for world
war dead Apex Theatre was robbed
last week of approximately $250, according
to
Manager Willing.
. . .
Variety Club gave a dinner to Fred C.
Schanberger jr., ex-chief barker . and
Mrs. Morris Oletsky spent the weekend in
Washington Babe Mednick is enjoying
the Pimlico races daily with a camera . . .
Harry Welch, Mayfair pubUcist, is getting
ready for a trip to California in June
Louis Hayes jr., son of Lou Hayes,
. . .
MGM
records, caught his finger in the front door
and was hospitalized, while his sister Carol
was being operated on for her tonsils.
Century Theatre ran a prize contest with
STAGE MEETS SCREEN — Patricia
CoUinge, (left), who played. Birdie Hubbard
in the stage and screen versions of
"The Little Foxes," greets Ann Blyth,
who plays Regina Hubbard in the Universal-International
picturization of "Another
Part of the Forest," which deals
with the earlier life of the same family,
at a special screening in New York.
. . .
the News Post on "State of the Union" with
entrants being required to write letters stating
why they like Maryland as the best state
in the Union Bob Burns, Century assistant,
left on a two-week vacation to Texas
to renew acquaintances with some of his 36th
Owen Schnepf jr., son
division buddies . . .
of the Century showman, has recovered from
the mumps and is back in school.
Nola Kortncr, daughter of Frank Kortner,
Hippodrome ad artists, won three scholarships
in a citywide elimination among 110
girls. One four-year scholarship to Notre
Dame of Maryland, one four-year scholarship
to Institute of Notre Dame, and a twoyear
scholarship to Ti'inity Prep. She will
accept the scholar.ship to Notre Dame of
Maryland . . . Marie Welch entertained the
Vanderbilts at the Variety Club Wednesday
night.
Bill Saxton brought the acts that entertained
at the Ad club banquet to the Variety
Club Saturday night, among which were Arthur
Tracy, more familiarly known as the
Street Singer, and Gili Gili, one of the greatest
magicians of the day.
Bill Saxton, Loew's city manager, happily
worked the ropes to keep the people in line
during the "State of the Union" showing . . .
Leon Zeller has added a new front to the
Roxy and is contemplating a new one for
the Roslyn . . It's rumored that the Hippodrome
.
will remodel completely . . . Jack
Dawses has finished reseating the Globe
in Berlin. Md.
Topflight Tape Introduced
As Advertising Accessory
NEW YORK—Frank Berglas, formerly with
United Artists and with National Screen
Service, is now associated with Topflight
Tape Co. and is introducing that company's
product as a new advertising accessory in
the motion picture field. The product is a
laminated Scotch tape on which feature and
institutional advertising can be printed In a
variety of colors. John Harris. Pittsburgh
exhibitor, has been using the tape for some
time, spotting strips near telephones, on
buses, streetcars, taxicabs, restaurants, cafes,
etc. First New York circuit to utilize the
tape is Loew's, Inc., for exploitation of "Duel
in the Sun," Berglas said.
Many Theatres Sign Up
For Altec Sound Service
NEW YORK — Agreement.s have been
signed by Altec Service for sound servicing
at the following eastern theatres: New York
—Capitol in Ballston Spa, Ritz in Granville.
State in Mechanicville, Capitol in
Whitehall, Bay m Alexander Bay, Victory in
Thomipkinsville, Veterans camp in Mount
McGregor, Clinton and Embassy in Rochester,
Inwood in Forest Hills. New in Hoosick
Falls, Capitol and Colonial in Elmira. Rivoli
in New York, Strand in Great Kills. Staten
Island and Sodus in Sodus. Pennsylvania
Great Northern and Rivoli in Philadelphia
and Broad in Souderton. New Jersey—Embassy
and Little in Newark.
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948 54C

Bright View Is Taken
Of Foreign Market
NEW YORK—The foreign
market outlook
has improved in recent weeks, according to
the MPAA.
Some films have already been released in
England as a result of the tax settlement.
John G. McCarthy, associate manager of the
MPAA International division, is in London
working out further details on how money
can be invested and remitted. No agreement
has been reached on whether the income
from films purchased outright in England
will be distributed here. British government
representatives are to sit in on
further discussion of this topic.
Remittances from foreign areas outside of
Great Britain may be handled through large
banking institutions. Conferences have been
held with the World Commerce Corp., International
Trade Associates, and the Chase
National bank.
These companies are ready to take over
frozen funds abroad at a discount. They will
make American funds available here and will
use the foreign funds for investment in enterprises
there or for stimulation of experts.
Discussions are to start September 15 for
renewal or remittance agreements with
Sweden and Norway which expire November
15. The Danish government will permit
tmlimited imports of American film and will
allow remittance of $120,000 during the next
six months.
CBS Executives Promoted
As Television Expands
NEW YORK—Lawi-ence W. Lowman, vicepresident
in charge of television for the
Columbia Broadcasting System, has been
named a vice-president and general executive
by Frank Stanton, president. J. L.
Van Volkenburg, director of station administration,
becomes vice-president and director
of television operations and J. Kelly
Smith, dij-ector of station relations, becomes
vice-president in charge of station administration.
All three promotions are directly related
to the "rapidly expanding television operations
of CBS and the integration of television
with other broadcasting activities,"
Stanton said.
Lowman will have general supervision of
television coordination. The personnel relations,
reference and short wave departments
will report to Lowman. Van Volkenburg's
duties will embrace all television operations,
programming and sales. Smith will have
supervision over all Columbia-owned stations,
radio sales, cooperative program sales
and CBS housewives protective league programs.
Schoham to Belgium
NEW YORK—Robert O.
Schoham, Loew's
International home office representative in
Scandinavia, has been named temporary manager
in Belgium. He replaces Selim Habib,
resigned because of ilbiess. Schoham also
had been manager in Cuba and Finland.
Allport Back in England
After U.S. Conferences
LONDON—Fayette W. Allport, Motion Picture
Ass'n of America representative in Great
Britain, has returned from U.S. conferences
on American plans to invest blocked funds
here. Allport spent about two weeks conferring
with the MPAA working committee
on the British tax settlement and Gerald
Mayer, managing director of the international
department.
In the meantime Harold Wilson, president
of the board of trade, is understood to be
considering the appointment of a government
official on the control committee to be
set up under the tax settlement agreement.
The control committee will be composed of
British and U.S. representatives and will pass
on applications to invest blocked American
funds here. The MPAA and the Society of
Independent Motion Picture Producers have
not named their representatives on the committee.
John G. McCarthy, associate manager of
the MPAA international division, will join
Allport here shortly. He sailed on the Queen
Elizabeth from New York Friday (14). Mc-
Carthy will spend several weeks with Allport
working out details for putting the tax agreement
into effect at the request of Eric Johnston.
Sarnoff Points Up Role
Of Video in Wartime
a
WRIGHT FIELD, DAYTON—Television as
war weapon was described by David Sarnoff,
president and chairman of the board of
RCA, at a meeting here May 10. The RCA
chief discussed the role of television in combat
at the second annual meeting of the
Armed Forces Commimications Ass'n of
which he is president. Darryl F. Zanuck,
20th-Fox studio chief, is a vice-president of
the organization.
Sarnoff said that the day may come when
a U.S. commander-in-chief in Washington
will be able to watch and conduct distant
military activities via television. He also referred
to the demonstration of airborne television
March 1946 at the U.S. naval air station
near Washington. At the time plane
observers were able to scan the countryside
for miles around with the aid of television
equipment, and then broadcast the scenes to
an audience on the ground. The maximum
range was 200 miles.
Eyssell, Industry Leaders
Discuss Rogers Memorial
NEW YORK—Directors of
the Will Rogers
Memorial fund and a group of industry leaders
were the guests of G. S. Eyssell, president
and managing director of the Radio
City Music Hall, at a luncheon meeting May
13 to discuss new plans for financing the industry's
Saranac Lake hospital. Eyssell is
treasurer of the fund.
Other officers of the fund present were:
Walter Vincent. Harold Rodner, Edmmid C.
Grainger, Dan Michalove, Sen. J. Heniy Walters,
Will H. Hays and Herman Levine. Also
attending were: Barney Balaban, Paramount:
Leonard Goldenson, Paramount Theatres
Sei-vice Corp.: Lewen Pizor. Philadelphia;
Maj. Leslie E. Thompson. RKO Theatres:
Morton G. Thalhimer, Richmond, Va.: W.
Stewart McDonald. Warner Bros. Tlieatres:
Leopold Friedman, Loew's, Inc.; John J.
O'Connor, Universal-International, and Abe
Montague, Columbia.
New Scophony Moves
For Peace Awaited
NEW YORK—Renewed negotiations for a
consent decree in the Scophony antitrust
case are expected.
The talks depend on word
from Scophony, Ltd., of Great Britain which
was recently restored as a defendant.
The other three defendants—General Precision
Instrument Co., Paramount and Scophony
Corp. of America—are ready to call
it off, and it is understood the department
of justice also is agreeable.
Paul Raibourn, Paramount vice-president
in charge of television, says his company and
General Precision would both like to get out,
if they can get back $140,000 invested in
Scophony B stock. Tliey are willing to wait
for payments from possible future Scophony
royalties.
Scophony Corp. of America has the western
hemisphere rights to the Scophony, Ltd., patents,
and Scophony, Ltd., owns 875 shares of
A stock in SCA. It is understood that consent
decree terms discussed some time ago
called for sale of this A stock.
Since the case was filed Adolph Rosenthal,
inventor, who owns the patents, has filed suit
for return of the patents to him. The case is
scheduled to go before AAA arbitrators.
There is widespread interest in the outcome,
because this is said to be the only
system that can throw television pictm-es on
a large screen by means of carbon lights.
Music Clubs Federation
Honors Ten Pictures
NEW YORK—The New York Federation of
Music Clubs has cited ten motion pictiu-es as
outstanding during the past year because of
"unusual backgroimd music that complemented
the theme and mood of the production."
The federation's scroll of honor for 1947-48
includes these films and the name of the
composer whose work is
represented in each.
They are: "The Paradine Case" iSRO). Waxman:
"Sitting Pretty" (20th-Fox), Newman;
"The Bishop's Wife" (RKOi, Friedhofer;
"Relentless" (Coli, Skiles; "Escape Me Never"
, Amphitheatrof, and
"Treasure of Sierra Madre" ("WB). Steiner.
The federation also recorded its appreciation
of the cooperation of the MPAA.
Television Service Report
Made by Electrical Ass'n
BUFFALO — The National Electrical
Wholesalers Ass'n has completed a report on
television receiver installation and servicing
for distribution to electrical dealers. The report
is entitled Television Service and Installation—A
Manual of Experience.
A summary of the report was submitted
by J. A. Vassar of the Westinghouse Electric
Supply Corp., chairman of the association
service and repair parts committee, at a
forum discussion during the 40th annual conference
of the association. The report deals
with the different types of television receivers,
questions of liability and distributors'
responsibilities.
54D
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948
Ml

.
PRODUCTION
(Hollywood Office— Suite 219 at 6404 Hollywood Blvd.: Ivan Spear, Western Manager)
CENTER
Right to Freelance
Claimed by Parks
HOLLYWOOD— strained relations between
Actor Larry Parks and Columbia, the studio
to which he has been under contract, took
a new and unforeseen tui-n when the player
informed the company that, in his opinion,
its case is all washed up.
Parks based his belief, conveyed to the
studio by letter, on a ruling handed down a
month ago in federal court when the actor,
seeking to break his contract, was told by
Judge William C. Mathes that the commitment
had been secui-ed under "duress and
undue influence." The jurist at that time
ruled that Coliunbia could not enjoin him
from working elsewhere, but otherwise held
that the contract was legal.
Spokesmen for Colimrbia indicated they
would carry on the fight despite Parks' contention
that he has "the absolute right and
freedom to work wherever I please and for
whomever I please and I intend to do so."
Columbia's official statement contended
Parks "has developed a habit of trying his
case in the newspapers," and said the company
will "continue to leave its litigated
legal problems to the courts. Columbia, however,
will resist by all means the law permits
any attempts by Mr. Parks or anyone else
to violate the terms of the contract between
Mr. Parks and Columbia."
His last picture for the company, not yet
released, was "The Gallant Blade."
• * •
Frederick Jackson, scenarist and playwright,
was awarded a $17,500 judgment in
superior court in a ruling upholding his
claim that Universal-International unlawfully
used the title of his play, "Slightly
Scandalous," without recompensing him.
Halfway Point Is Reached
In Third Week of Drive
HOLLYWOOD—fetablishing a fast pace,
volunteer workers have garnered nearly half
their quota of new subscriptions in the Motion
Pictm-e Relief Fund, Inc., although the
silver jubilee campaign is little more than
three weeks old. Operating under supervision
of George Bagnall, campaign chairman,
studio coordinators and guild and union marshals
bagged 10,369 subscriptions out of an
industry-wide quota of 22,000.
Labor's executive committee leads the list
with 6,999 pledges, followed by screen writers,
584; producers, executives and department
heads, 563, and directors, 174. Other pledges
are divided among miscellaneous studio
groups.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
Texas Oil Millionaire
Forms Producing Firm
HOLLYWOOD—Another Texas oil
millionaire
is moving into the film production
sphere with the disclosure that Glenn Mc-
Carthy, Houston businessman, has formed
Glenn McCarthy Productions in association
with Monty Collins and actor Robert Paige.
The independent unit's first venture will
be "The Green Promise," story of a farm
family's struggle for success, to be made in
cooperation with the country's 4-H clubs.
Collins wrote the original.
Paige and Collins will launch a nationwide
search in June for a 12-year-old farm girl,
who must be a 4-H Club member, for the
featured role in the subject. Releasing arrangements
and production schedules will be
announced later.
McCarthy thus joins such Texas compatriots
now in films as Howard Hughes, Jack
Wrather and Robert Frost, all originally from
the Lone Star state and all of whom were
initially successful in the oil industry.
Twenty Producers to Use
Four Stages at Nassour
HOLLYWOOD—With completion by early
summer of a new stage, the Nassour studios
will have a total of four stages in operation
to accommodate 20 independent production
units now headquartering on the rental lot.
David S. Garber, general studio manager, is
arranging schedules to implement the
plaimed production of ten features on the
lot dui-ing the next three months by a lineup
of film-makers including Pine-Thomas,
Matty Kemp, Jack Wrather, William Stevens,
Maurice Conn, Edward Fiimey, Philip N.
Krasne and Major Productions.
Other producing units headquartering at
Nassour include Diana Productions, Screenplays,
Inc., McCarthy Productions, Emblem,
W. Lee Wilder, World, Ai-pi, Realistic, United-
International, Martin Murray, Mercury and
Social
Guidance.
Academy Gets $1,000 Gift
HOLLYWOOD—A gift of $1,000 was handed
the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and
Sciences' foimdation for restoring historic
motion pictures, now in the archives at the
Library of Congress as paper photographic
records, by Thomas A. Edison, Inc., of West
Orange, N. J. The donation was granted in
support of the Academy's project to convert
to celluloid early day cinema efforts covering
the period from 1894 to 1912.
Paramount to Build
NewKTLAHome
HOLLYWOOD—Paramount's television activities
as channeled through its local video
outlet, KTLA, are expanding so rapidly that
in addition to remodeling and enlarging the
studio's present facilities, construction will
begin shortly on a new three-story building
which will serve as permanent headquarters
for the telecasting station. The work will be
supervised by Klaus Landberg, KTLA's general
director.
At the same time Paramount completed arrangements
whereby KTLA will televi.se the
world premiere of "The Emperor Waltz" at
the Hollywood Paramount Theatre May 26,
the first time such a Hollywood film opening
has ever been recorded by video cameras.
Completion of three 30-minute productions
filmed in 35mm for television was disclosed
by William Cameron Menzies, film producer
and production designer. Two of the subjects,
"The Tell-Tale Heart" and "A Terribly
Strange Bed," were made in association
with Ben Finney, while "Your Witness,"
starring Regis Toomey, was produced by
Menzies and Robert Longenecker under the
bamier of Telepac Films. Richard Hart is
featured in "The Tell-Tale Heart," while
Richard Greene toplines "Bed." All three
were tm-ned out at the Hal Roach studios in
Culver City and negotiations are now under
way with eastern video executives, advertising
agencies and sponsors for commercial
handling.
* * *
With headquarters at Nassour studios. Telepictures,
Inc., has been incorporated by Robert
L. Redd, radio executive, who plans production
of 24 "open-end" video films with
Edward Nassour associated in the enterprise.
* * *
Noran Kersta, director of television operations
for NBC, was principal speaker at a
meeting of the Television Academy of Arts
and Sciences on May 11. At present in Los
Angeles for the National Ass'n of Broadcasters
convention, Kersta headquarters in New
York. His topic was "Television, Today's
Reality."
* * *
General Service studio's cun-ent expansion
and improvement program incorporates plans
for the expenditure of $100,000 or more on
the installation of newest developments and
techniques for production of television films,
it was disclosed by James Nasser, producer
and owTier of the lot. J. B. Lauck, eastern
video engineer, has been set to supervise the
installations.
55

STUDIO PERSONNELITIES
Barnstormers
Metro
Singing star JANE POWELL will leave Hollywood
May 26 for a two-week personal appearance at the
State-Lake Theatre in Chicago.
Republic
MONTE HALE wound up his five-week personal
appearance tour in Oklahoma and checked back for
his next picture, "Son of Gods Country."
Universal-International
DONALD O'CONNOR returned from a four-week
personal appearance trip in the east. O'Connor
helped launch the national security loan drive with
the premiere of "Are You With It?" in New York.
Blurbers
Gold'wryn
FENTON GRESSER, assistant to William Hebert,
advertising-publicity chief, has resigned his post
and will be replaced by CHARLES SPANGLER, independent
publicist who joins the staff as magazine
contact.
Universal-International
FRANK McFADDEN wets named assistant to Les
Kaufman, director of studio publicity.
firiefies
Metro
FRED C. QUIMBY, chief of the short subjects department,
was signed to a new five-year contract.
"Tom and Jerry in Holland" will inaugurate a new
series for the cat-mouse duo that will tcdce them to
important countries all over the world. William
Hanna and Joseph Barbera will direct lor Producer
Fred Qu'mby.
Paramount
Scripters at Jerry Fairbanks Productions are readying
a new Popular Science short which will show
the correct way to carve Thanksgiving day turkeys.
The short subject will be released early in November
and will picture turkey procurement and carving
problems since the time of the Pilgrims.
Marking the start of the eighth year of the
Speaking of Animals short subjects series. Producer
Jerry Fairbanks set "Calling All Animals" as the
first of the group for the new year,
Universal-International
JIMMY DORSEY and his orchestra were booked
to star in a musical featurette for Producer-Director
Will Cowan.
Cleffers
Monogram
Producers Julian Lesser and Frank Melford ticketed
LUD GLUSKIN as musical director for their
initial Windsor Pictures film, "Michael O'Hdlloran."
,,
"MMY DORSEY and his orchestra were signed for
Ivlanhattan Folk Song," Will Jason's musical, which
will star Phil Brito and Freddie Stewart.
Universal-International
Musical directorships went to MIKLOS ROSZA for
Criss Cross," and FRANK SKINNER for Rampart
Productions' "You Gotta Stay Happy "
Loanouts
RKO
Producer Samuel Goldvryn completed arrangements
with Columbia to co-star EVELYN KEYES
y'^.P"""^ Niven, Teresa Wright and Farley Granger
J? u ^rJ"''^®
Tenses." Miss Keyes will replace
Oa hy O Donnell, who is slated to star in another
Ijoldwyn picture, "Roseanna McCoy,"
20th-Fox
Producer Frank Seltzer borrowed KRISTINE MIL-
LLH from Hal Wallis Productions lor his "West of
lomorrow.
Meggers
Eagle Lion
'^"^'='
'''"2^'^J? "'^'=d Stallion in the Rockies"
was RALPH MURPHY. Aubrey Schenck vrill produce.
Producer WILLIAM MOSS announced that he will
""? J ? ''' about medical bunko artists, tentatively
titled Medical Hucksters," Hal Smith is scripting.
Independent
Producer EDWARD FINNEY announced plans to
begin filming "The Wreckers," based on Robert
Louis Stevenson's novel, in early summer.
Metro
JOE PASTERNAK will spend three weeks in Honolulu
doing resecu^ch on an original story idea which
he will produce, titled "Hawaii."
Monogram
WILLIAM BEAUDINE checked in to direct "Kidnapped,"
Lindsley Parson's film to star Roddy Mc-
Dowall.
Paramount
Pdcted for the directorial post on "Streets of
Laredo" was LESLIE FENTON. William Holden,
Macdonald Carey and William Bendix will star in
Robert Fellows' production.
The option on the services of RICHARD MAIBAUM,
producer-writer, has been renewed for another two
years.
20th-Fox
JEAN NEGULESCO has been announced for the
director's post on "Britannia Mews," which 'William
Perlberg will produce.
Universal-International
ARTHUR PIERSON checked in to direct Douglas
Fairbanks jr.'s next starring-producing picture, "The
O'Flynn."
MICHEL KRAIKE was set to produce "Abbott and
Costello and the Invisible Man." Hugh Wedlock
and Howard Snyder will write the screenplay.
Warners
Signed to direct "The Younger Brothers," outdoor
tale of midwest outlaw days, was EDWIN L. MARIN.
Options
Columbia
Into "Undercover Man" goes GLENN FORD, who
will hove the male starring role under Joseph H.
Lewis' direction. NINA FOCH was given the feminine
lead opposite Ford. DAVID WOLFF makes his
film debut in an important supporting role in the
picture. LEO PENN will join the cast.
Veteran character actor CHILL WILLS was signed
for a top featured role with Gene Autry in "Loaded
Pistols," in which Barbcfra Britton is co-starred. A
top character port goes to JACK HOLT.
WILLIAM BISHOP steps into "The Walking Hills"
as Randolph Scott's rival for Ella Raines. Harry
Joe Brown is producing and John Sturges is the
director.
The role of a native girl in "Congo Bill," Sam
Katzman's serial, was handed to ARMIDA Mexican
actress. Character actor CHARLES KING checked
in for a featured role with Don McGuire and Cleo
Moore.
ROSALIND RUSSELL was announced for the starring
spot in "Miss Grant Takes Richmond," an original
story by Gene Towne.
Metro
MAE MARSH, star of the silent films, vets signed
by Argosy Pictures for a top featured role in "The
Three Godfathers."
DUANE HICKMAN will play the son ol Jeanette
MacDonald in "Sun in the Morning." Richard
Thorpe directs for Producer Robert Sisk.
Monogram
New castings for "Saddle Serenade" are WIL-
LIAM RUHL, TED ADAMS, STEVE CLARK, MILBURN
MORANTE, DOUGLAS EVANS, STEVE DARRELL
BOB WOODWARD, BUD OSBORNE and CAROL
HENRY.
New castings for "Manhattan Folk Song," musical
starring Phil Brito and Freddie Stewart, are
CHICK CHANDLER, HELEN WOODFORD, GEORGE
BEATTY, GERTRUDE ASTOR and ROY AVERSA.
Paramount
A 17-year-old Santa Monica high school student,
KATHLEEN STRONG, was signed to a term contract.
RALPH PETERS and BILL CARTRIDGE were inked
for the "Sorrowful Jones" cast in which Bob Hope
and Lucille Ball are starred.
A character role in "Dark Circle" was handed
MAXINE GATES. Ray MiUand, Audrey Totter and
Thomas Mitchell are starred in Endre Bohem's production.
RKO
ESTHER DALE, JOHN MclNTYHE, JOHN MERTON
ART DUPUIS, BOBBY ELLIS and JOHN MILJAN were
added to the cast of "Weep No More," which stars
Joseph Gotten and Valli. Robert Stevenson is directing.
Ticketed for a top role in "Baltimore Escapade"
was JOHNNY SANDS. Shirley Temple, John Agar
and Robert Young will appear in Richard Berger's
production. A major role goes to ALBERT SHARPE.
MARIORIE RHODES, British character actress, was
signed for her first American picture by Samuel
Goldwyn, who has cast her in "Take Three Tenses."
British actor COLIN KEITH-JOHNSTON also was
signed.
HARRY WOODS drew the chief heavy role in
"Indian Agent," the Tim Holt starrer.
Republic
GUS SCHILLING was inked for a featured comedy
role in "Drums Along the Amazon," the George
Brent-Vera Ralsfon-Bnon Aherne-Constanoe Bennett
starrer.
Featured spots' in "The For Outpost" went to
GEORGE CLEVELAND, PAUL FIX and CHARLES
STEVENS. The cast is headed by Rod Cameron and
llona Massey. GRANT WITHERS was set for a top
featured role.
20th-Fox
Signed for the toplines in 'Trouble Preferred,"
next Sol M. Wurtzel production, were CHARLES
RUSSELL, PEGGY KNUDSON and LYNNE ROBERTS.
United Artists
RUDY VALLEE was slated for a top role in Harry
Popkin's "My Dear Secretary." Signed for a twopicture
deal by Producer Harry Popkin was HELLi.
WALKER. Her initial stint will be a top spot in
the picture.
Universal-International
BENNY BAKER checked in for the comedy role
opposite Olga San Juan in John Beck's 'The
Countess of Monte Cristo," starring Sonja Henie.
TONY MARTIN'S option has been renewed, with
the star set to make one picture a year under the
new deal.
JOE COOK JR., son of the comedian, will play a
comedy bellhop in the Joan Fontaine-Jimmy Stewart
picture, "You Gotta Stay Happy."
Warners
Set to join Bette Davis and Robert Montgomery in
"June Bride" is BARBARA BATES. Bretaigne Windust
is directing the comedy for Producer Henry Blonke.
MARJORIE BENNETT will play Bette's mother.
SANDRA GOULD draws a supporting part. FAY
BAINTER has a featured role. Other cast assignments
went to JEROME COWAN and MARY WICKES.
EDMOND O'BRIEN, Broadway and film actor, has
been placed under contract.
A 20-year-old New York actress and model, JOAN
VOHS, was signed to a long-term ticket.
DANE CLARK has been set as the third member
of the starring trio in "The Girl From Jones Beach."
Others are Ronald Reagan and Virginia Mayo. LOIS
WILSON returns to films for the first time in years
as Virginia Mayo's mother in the picture.
Set to start in "The Younger Brothers," Technicolor
midwest drama under the direction of Edwin
L, Mann, were WAYNE MORRIS and ROBERT HUT-
TON. JANIS PAIGE and DOUGLAS KENNEDY were
ticketed for top berths. Set for roles were BRUCE
BENNETT and GERALDINE BROOKS.
GRACE McCORD, 19-year-old daughter of Hcn-old
J, McCord, for 25 years head of the film editing
department, makes her motion picture debut as a
featured singer with a vocal sextet in "My Dream
'h®
i?,-,/°"''^' Michael Curtiz production. SHEL-
DON LEONARD checked in for a featured role
Scripters
Monogram
GEORGE ZUCKERMAN was inked to polish the
script of "Strike It Rich," Jack Wrather's Allied
Artists production which will topline Bonita Granville.
RKO
The script of "Outlaw Valley," first of six features
in which Tim Holt will star on the 1946-49
program, has been completed by LUCI WARD and
JACK NATTEFORD.
The script of "Stagecoach Kid," the Tim Holt
starrer, has been completed by NORMAN HOUSTON.
Herman Schlom is the producer.
Republic
LOUISE ROUSSEAU completed her screen treatment
of "Low of the Golden West," scheduled to
star Monte Hale. Mel Tucker will produce.
Story Buys
Eagle Lion
Walter Wanger acquired the screen rights to
"The World and Little Willie" from R. B. Roberts
Productions. June Lockhart was announced for the
stellar spot in the modern-day story involving a
school teacher.
Independent
Producers John Ford and Merian C. Cooper acquired
JcOnes Warner Bellah's story, "Mission Without
Orders," for early production by their Argosy
Pictures, with no release set as yet. Top roles
are slated for John Wayne and John Agar.
Alan H. Posner and Sam X. Abarbcmel purchased
a screenplay by Roland Kibbee, titled "The Birds
Are Walking," and scheduled it as their next
Eronel Productions film.
SRO
A forthcoming novel by Betsey Barton, "The Long
Walk," was purchased by David O. Selznick. Set
in the paraplegic ward of a U.S. Veterans hospital,
the entire story is told in the space of a single day
in the lives of the men and women in the hospital.
Warners
"Career Girl," a novel by Isobel Moore, was pur-
56 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

chased for Lou Edelman's production slate. Henry
and Phoebe Ephron are set to do the screenplay.
Technically
Columbia
Dialog director for "Undercover Man'! will be
LOREN GAGE.
CHARLES LAWTON checked in to take over camera
work on "The Walking Hills."
Enterprise
RICHARD DAY was signed as art director on
"Tucker's People," John Garfield statrer, to be
mode by R. B. Roberts Productions.
Metro
The assistant directorship on "Neptune's Daughter"
went to JERRY BERGMAN.
Cinematographer assignment on "Act of Violence"
was handed to
ROBERT SURTEES.
Monogram
Production crew assigned to "Manhattan Folk
Song" includes JACKSON ROB'S, camera; BUDDY
L. MYERS, sound, and WILLIAM AUSTIN, cutter.
RKO
JACK OKEY takes over the art directorship on
"Baltimore Escapade."
Technical assignments on "Indian Agent" included
J. RAY HUNT, camera; JOHN TRIBBY, sound,
and LES MILLBROOK, film editor.
20th-Fox
HAROLD GODSOE was named assistant to Director
Joe Newman on "West ot Tomorrow" for Frank
Seltzer Productions.
BENJAMIN KLINE wcfs signed as cameraman and
MAURICE VACCARINO as assistant director by Producer
Sol M. Wurtzel for "Trouble Preferred."
Universal-International
Lensing chores on "The O'FIynn" were handed
ARTHUR EDESON.
Warners
ERIC STAGEY was assigned the unit manager
job on "The Girl From Jones Beach." CARL GUTH-
RIE was set as art director of photography. ART
LUEKER was assigned as assistant director.
The unit manager post on "The Younger Brothers"
went to DON PAGE.
ED DAVENPORT was named dialog director for
"June Bride." •
Title Changes
20th-Fox
Sol M.
WIND.
Wurtzel's "Big Dan" is now called NIGHT
VIDEO
Set lor roles in Jerry Fairbanks' "Public Prosecutor"
television film series for NBC, were Vera
Lewis, Edwin Maxwell, Ben Welden, Joe Mantelle,
Dian Fountelle ctnd Ray Parker.
Vote Ten New Members
On Board of Academy
HOLLYWOOD—Ten new members of
the
board of governors of the Academy of IVtotion
Picture Arts and Sciences have been elected
for two-year terms. Newcomers include Robert
Montgomery, actors branch; Robert Haas,
art directors; John Boyle, cinematographers;
George Stevens, directors; G. Carleton Hunt,
film editors; Harry 'Warren, musicians; Gabe
Yorlc, public relations; Walter Lahtz, short
subjects; Gordon Sawyer, sound, and Emmett
Lavery, writers.
New members will join with holdover officers
at a board meeting May 25. Governors
retaining places on the board until April
1949 include Jean Hersholt, Urie McCleary,
Charles G. Clarke, William Wyler, WilUam
Hornbeck. Morris Stoloff, Perry Lieber, Fred
Quimby, Thomas Moulton, Charles Brackett,
N. Peter Rathvon, Jack L. Warner, Walter
Wanger and Donald Nelson.
Producing 'Home' Movies
From Mideast Edition
ALTOONA, PA.—A "home town" feature
length picture is being produced here by Abe
Eskin for the Fabian interests. Recently he
has been successful in producing similar
films in Allentown and Johnstown.
LWAYS quick to adhere to trends,
Cinemania currently is having a bit of
a hassle with freedom of the press.
One manifestation thereof came in connec-
ambiguous de-
tion with the supreme court's
cision in the government's antitrust suit
against the major companies. On the morning
following the rendering of that momentous
ruling, a Hollywood tradepaper
printed quoted statements thereon purportedly
noade by several industi-y biggies, among
them Edgar J. Mannix, MGM studio executive,
and Joseph M. Schenck, head man at
20th-Pox's film foundry.
Efforts to confii-m the Mannix and Schenck
pronouncements brought forth, in both cases,
emphatic denials that any statement had
been made. As concerns Mannix, the everpresent
"authoritative spokesman" declared
that Mannix was "plenty bmned about the
unwarranted quotations and proposed to do
something about it."
Despite the apparent fictlve nature of the
news, one of the wire services, probably without
going to the trouble to verify, must have
picked up the alleged Mamiix statement, because
it was subsequently heard on several
radio newscasts.
Of greater importance and interest, litigiously,
at least, are a pair of suits against
prominent publications recently filed by two
Thespic limiinaries, Hedy Lamarr and Errol
Flynn. Both of the glamorous litigants are
being represented by Attorney Jerry Giesler.
Parenthetically, that widely publicized great
mouthpiece for denizens of Never-Never Land
informs that it is a mere coincidence that
he is appearing for the plaintiffs in both
actions and that the simultaneous suits in
no way hint at a patterned plan to discipline
journals specializing in fan fodder.
In the Flynn complaint it is alleged that
Ideal Publications prepared and published a
story in Modern Screen, a fan magazine,
under Plynn's byline. The brief prepared
by Giesler contends that the actor was never
approached by the publication for permission
to use the story, that he never wi-ote a
word of it, and that he was never given an
opportunity even to read it until he picked
up a copy of the magazine containing the
article. Spokesmen for the Warner studio,
where Flymi is under contract, further depose
that the publicity department's fan magazine
staff likewise was given no chance to clear
the yarn or assist in its preparation.
The action on behalf of Miss Lamarr holds
that in a recent issue of Look magazine an
article about the actress appeared which in
the opinion of the actress and her attorney
caused considerable damage to her professional
reputation because it declared—WTongfully,
say the plaintiffs—that she had undergone
plastic sui'gei-y to make her aheadycelebrated
nose even more symmetrical.
Assimiing that the beefs in the incidents
above chronicled are justified by fact, it would
appear that in Hollywood freedom of the
press sometimes becomes license. But the
rap therefore cannot be hung upon the publications
or their film capital representatives.
Rather, it is another case of Hollywood's
hybrid publicity chickens coming home to
roost.
Since the days of the Industry's infancy,
filmdom's evaluation of publicity and public
relations always has been quantitative rather
than qualitative. Much space, regardless of
what often-harmful eyewash is printed
therein, is still the goal of most Hollywood
publicists.
And as a byproduct of .such credo and
modus operandi there is the well-known
phoney story. 'Whether it emanates from
free-lance or studio space-snatchers, whether
it is planned and planted as news or saccharine
drool for fan publications, a deplorably
large percentage of the material distributed
by press agents stems from their
active imaginations with nary a shred of fact
to back it up.
It is entirely natural and understandable,
then, that reporters on matters cinematic,
taking their cues from the blurbers, occasionally
will forget some of the fundamentals of
good journalism—accuracy and truth.
If the darlings of the industry's nobility,
be they executive or artistic, are willing to
have their careers built and dependent upon
such public and press relations procedure,
then they should be prepared to take in
stride the occasional bitter situations when
the system backfires.
Those who live by the sword .
. .
UTTER CONFUSION DEPARTMENT
Columbia announces it will star Rosalind
Russell in "Miss Grant Takes Richmond," an
original by Gene Towne, while the Warner
docket lists "Miss Richmond Takes Grant,"
by Lester Fuller.
Following news of Howard Hv^hes' acquisition
of RKO Radio, Praise F>undit Lieber
deserted his flying lessons sufficiently long
to inforfn one and sundry that "Janine Marsay.
'Miss Cinemonde' of Paris, winner of
continental beauty contest conducted by the
French fan magazine 'Cinemonde.' came to
Hollywood under auspices of RKO Radio.
Mademoiselle Marsay, a professional mannequin,
spent a week here visiting the studios,
with RKO providing the escort and generally
showing her a good time."
Presumably Lucky Perry was at least technical
adviser on "generally showing her a good
time."
Hollywood can safely claim to have reached
the millennium when some courageous producer
makes a hores-racing; picture without
casting Frankie Darro as the jockey. Or a
super-western in which Barton MacLane is
not the hea^'J.
BOXOFFICE : : May 15, 1948 57

Z^cec44ilue
West: Louis B. Mayer returned to Metro
after a trip to New York and Washington.
In Gotham he conferred with Nicholas
Schenck. president of Loew's, Inc., and in
the nation's capital he appeared briefly at
the contempt trial of scenarist Dalton Trumbo.
Mayer was accompanied by Howard
Strickling. studio publicity director.
* *
East: Director Andre DeToth planed in
from Australia after huddles "down under"
with Sam Snyder, exhibitor and financier,
regarding plans for making a series of Samuel
Bischoff productions in the Antipodes utilizing
frozen American capital. Definite commitments
hinge upon the outcome of legal
obstacles now being studied by Attorney Herbert
Silverberg.
* * *
East: Cecil B. DeMille, Paramount producer-director,
left for Washington, where
he was scheduled to be the first witness before
a house labor committee opening sessions
May 11. DeMille planned to spend
additional time in New York before returning
to the coast.
* * *
West: William B. Levy, world sales supervisor
for Walt Disney Productions, checked
in from a month's trip to Europe.
* * +
West: To discuss future cooperative production
in France, Robert Guillemard, Pathe-
Cinema production chief in Paris, and Jacques
Chabrier, his American representative,
arrived at RKO.
* * *
East: Ed Lurie, eastern exploiteer for Allied
Artists, left for Chicago after local conferences
with Louis S. Lifton, advertisingpublicity
director.
* * *
West: Due within two weeks from Gotham
is John Woolf, managing director of General
Film Distributors, a J. Arthur Rank subsidiary.
Woolf, en route from London, will
stop off at Universal-International during a
nationwide tour of U-I officers. Returning
from a two-week junket to New York was
Irving Brecher, U-I producer. Producer
Nunnally Johnson also trained in after two
weeks in the east.
* * *
East: William Pine of the sharecropping
Pine-Thomas unit headed for Manhattan for
discussions with Paramount toppers concerning
a possible new distribution deal.
^n4juuele/i4>
West: George A. Hirliman, independent
producer releasing through Screen Guild,
came in from New York for huddles with SG
executives concerning the script for the first
of two films he will make in the east.
East: Edwin Knopf. Metro producer;
Howard Strickling, studio publicity director;
and Spencer Tracy were slated to leave over
the weekend for Manhattan, en route to London,
where Knopf will prepare for the filming
of a Tracy starrer at the company's
British studios.
* * *
West: Orson Welles planed in from Italy
and reported to Republic to begin work on the
final score and editing of "Macbeth," his
producing-directing-starring vehicle, made in
association with the Charles K. Feldman
group.
* * *
East: Following brief studio conferences,
N. C. Leharry, general manager for Columbia
in Calcutta, India, planed for his headquarters.
* • •
East: James R. Grainger, Republic sales
chief, planed for New York after a week of
studio conferences concerning new product.
* * *
West: Due in early next week is Gradwell
Sears, United Artists president, accompanied
by Joseph Unger, sales manager. They will
hu^le with various UA producers on pictures
currently in work and product due for
early release.
Triple-Chore Pact Signed
By 20th-Fox and Sturges
HOLLYWOOD—Preston Stm-ges has signed
a new thi-e»-way writer-director-producer
deal at 20th-Fox and will function in that
triple capacity in the making of "The Beautiful
Blonde From Bashful Bend," to star
Betty Grable. Sturges recently wound up
"Unfaithfully Yours" for the company.
'India' Goes to Columbia
HOLL'YWOOD—Release through Columbia
was set by Albert S. Rogell for "Song of
India," first vehicle to be produced by his
recently formed Gibraltar Pi'oductions. It
will star Turhan Bey and Sabu, with Rogell
as producer-director. From an original
screenplay by Art Arthur and Jerome Odlimi,
"India" is slated to roll early next month.
NEW RADIO-VIDEO HEADQUARTERS—First television outlet
on the air in the
U.S. and operating constantly in the Los Angeles area since 1931, the Mutual-Don Lee
broadcasting system will formally dedicate its new $3,000,000 combined radio-video
headquarters in Hollywood in September. Lee's television operation was recently
granted its commercial license by the Federal Communications commission and will
shortly change its call letters from the experimental W6XAO to commercial KTSL.
Studio Locals Reject
Counterproposals
HOLL'YWOOD—Rejecting counter offers of
major producers on their wage demands,
lATSE studio locals empowered Roy Brewer,
international representative, to ask President
Richard Walsh to intercede "immediately" in
an effort to reach a satisfactory adjustment.
The producers' offer to maintain a present
cost of living bonus with provision to review
it if and when living costs rise more than 15
per cent was unanimously thumbed down by
all lATSE workers. The union seeks an additional
7.75 per cent cost of living boost.
Action is the second wherein producers and
labor groups have failed to reach an agreement
in recent weeks. Some time ago the
Screen Actors guild armomiced negotiations
for a new contract had been abandoned because
producers allegedly refused to discuss
several important new demands. The actors
hinted strongly at the possibility of strike
action when their present agreement expires
in August.
* * *
Threats of eastern "leftwing groups" to
boycott showings of 20th-Fox's "The Iron
Curtain" were officially condemned by the
local oentral labor council of the AFL. W. J.
Basset^, council secretary, said the organization
had adopted a resolution branding those
group* "not affiliated with the AFL" who
have threatened to boycott the Roxy Theatre
in New York for a year if "Curtain" is
screened.
Producers have been offically notified by
the Screen Publicists Guild that the blurbers
are ready to open discussions concerning a
renewal of their contract. The publicists wUl
seek a "cost of living" increase in wages and
other adjustments, all of which have already
been approved by the SPG's executive board.
Two Auditoriums, 1 Booth
For Robert Lippert House
NORTH HOLLYWOOD—A double theatre,
comprising two auditoriums serviced from
a single projection booth between them, will
be constructed here shortly by Robert L. Lippert,
northern California exhibitor and executive
of Screen Guild.
Lippert's venture will be the first of its
type to be undertaken in the southland since
19S9, when the James Edwards circuit remodeled
the Alhambra in Alhambra, adding
an annex. The Edwards policy at that time
was the booking of an A feature, with short
subjects, into the annex, while the same A
and a companion pictui'e were being screened
in the larger auditorium.
The arrangement proved unsuccessful,
however, and Edwards later reverted to showing
the same dual program simultaneously
in both auditoriums.
Ground will be broken almost immediately
for the Lippert venture. Lippert has tentatively
named it the Duo, but as yet has not
decided whether to play the same features
in each auditorium or vary the bookings, perhaps
in much the same way as did Edwards
when his experiment got under way. The
Lippert showcase will have a total of 1,300
seats.
Comed'y Role to Comedian's Son
Son of a comedian, Joe Cook jr., will play a
comedy bellhop in Universal's "You Gotta
Stay Happy."
;
i
58 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

I
Tributes From France
Given Wyler, Howard
HOLLYWOOD—Two members of the film
colony who were active in World War II were
the recipients of tributes from the French
government for their wartime services to that
nation.
William Wyler, Paramoimt producer-director,
was given the P^ench Legion of Honor
in ceremonies conducted by Alexandre de
Manzairly, French consul in Los Angeles, who
commended Wyler for "distinguished service
in behalf of France and the other nations
fighting for freedom." Wyler served with the
army air force for three years as a lieutenant-colonel.
The Croix de Guerre with silver star was
received by John Howard, film and television
actor, for his participation as a navy lieutenant
in the landings in southern France
during the last war. Earlier Howard had been
presented with the navy cross for his bravery
imder fire.
A message from Dore Schary, RKO production
chief, keynoted the opening session of
the 35th annual convention of the B'nai
B'rith's Antidefamation league, held at the
Ambassador hotel. Due to the death of his
mother, Schary was not present, but his remarks
were read by Leon Goldberg, his executive
aide at the studio.
Schary sounded a warning that Communists
are attempting "to wrap themselves
in the cloak of liberalism . . . But we must
learn to make the distinction that the Communists
did not invent the liberal fight, they
have only discovered it . . . We must learn to
make the distinction of motive."
Lem Lee Sells Interest
In Arvada to Partner
ARVADA, COLO.—Lem Lee sold his interest
in the Arvada Theatre to his partner,
Mrs. AUie Jay of Littleton, and Mrs. Jay's
son Bus was scheduled to take over the
management May 15. Included in the sale
was the lot on Wadsworth avenue where a
new theatre is to be built. Lee plans to
handle the concession at the new Lakewood
Drive-In, scheduled to open early in June.
He also has the concession stand at the East
Denver Drive-In. Lee and Mrs. Jay have
owned the theatre in partnership since August
1945.
Let Contract for Theatre
LOS ANGELES — A contract has been
awarded for construction of a new theatre
and store building at 11,601 South Central
Ave. for Berman & Robbins. The show
house will be of reinforced concrete and the
store building of frame and stucco. The
whole structure will be 236x175 feet. Designed
by architect Herman Charles Light,
the project will cost $200,000.
Portland SG Screens Two
PORTLAND—Screen Guild Productions
screened two Negro pictures, "Boy! AVhat a
Gal" and "Sepia Cinderella," for 70 members
and guests of the local Urban league. All
were guests of Mort Bramson, Pacific northwest
manager for Screen Guild.
Three on Honeymoon
For Theatre Couple
Seattle— "Three on a Honeymoon" was
made by Fox way back in 1934, but it
took Nick Furfaro, in charge of the concession
bar at the Paramount Theatre,
and the former Mary Lou Monroe, head
usherette at the Blue Mou.se, to bring it
up to date.
It seems the couple was married on
May 29. Along with a group of friends,
including the bride's father, they boarded
a boat that was to take them to Victoria,
B. C, for a brief honeymoon. When all
the well-wishers supposedly had departed
the ship was under way and the couple
had retired to their staterooms, there was
a knock at the door. When it was opened
who should appear but father! He had
missed getting off.
A steward found other accommodations
for him and the newiyweds finally got
their solitude. One of the local newspapers
thought so well of the story they
got a big blast on page one along with art
after their return.
Halro Corp. Created
To Make Tele Film
HOLLYWOOD—First major film producer
to embark on video activity on a large scale,
Hal Roach has incorporated Halro Television
Corp. with a capitalization of $2,000,000 and
indicated his television plans call for a much
heavier investment in the future. Detailed
announcements concerning Roach's video
schedule will be forthcoming shortly, spokesmen
for him said.
It was indicated Roach will establish his
television production unit on his Culver City
lot, turning out new footage for the medium
and, possibly, revamping a number of his
old films for video consumption.
Paramount Reopens Its
Exchange at Portland
PORTLAND—Paramount Pictures, which
closed its Portland offices and moved all
booking and accounting to Seattle last December
1, last week reopened its local branch
building at NW 18th avenue and Kearney
streets. Manager Lou Stang was retired at
the time of the move to Seattle.
Wayne Thirot, Paramount manager at Salt
Lake City, is the new local chief. Lou Hummell
is office manager, Jim Draper is booker.
Prairie' to Premiere
At Medford May 19
HOLLYWOOD—A klieg-lighted western
premiere of "The Miracle of the Bells," produced
for RKO release by Jesse L. Lasky and
Walter MacEwen, was staged at the Pantages
Theatre May 12. Attended by top film
luminaries, the debut was staged for the
benefit of the University Religious Conference
to finance its fight against intolerance.
A highlight of the program was the presentation
to Producer Sol Lesser of an award by
Rabbi Edgar F. Magnin for the veteran filmmaker's
aid to the conference in past years.
The world premiere of Universal-International's
"Another Part of the Forest," starring
Fredric March, was set for May 18 at the
Rivoli in New York.
* • *
Backed by an extensive exploitation, advertising
and radio campaign. Screen Guild's
"The Prairie" will make its exhibition debut
at the Criterion in Medford, Ore., May 19.
Produced for SG release by Edward Firmey,
"The Prairie" stars Alan Baxter and Lenore
Aubert. Finney has checked out for Medford
to map the premiere in detail with Matt
Freed, city manager for the Robert L. Lippert
circuit, which operates the Criterion
in Medford, and Lee Ryan, advertising director.
The campaign will include a newspaper
contest to discover new talent for future
Finney productions, cooperation by leading
civic organizations and youth clubs.
* * *
As part of a mass booking throughout the
entire Warner circuit Enterprise-United Artists
"Arch of Ti-iumph" will make its western
debut June 4 in the three local Warner
showcases, the Hollywood, Downtown and
Wiltern. It is the first time in more than six
years that an outside film has played the
trio of houses.
* * *
Edward Small's production for Columbia,
"The Fuller Brush Man," is set for its New
York premiere May 10 at Loew's State. The
comedy stars Red Skelton.
Slavko Vorkapich to USC
LOS ANGELES — Slavko Vorkapich has
been appointed head of the cinema department
of the University of Southern California.
In addition to having served with
MGM. Paramount and RKO as montage director,
Vorkapich directed the series of documentary
films. This Is America.
WAHOO
America's finest Screen Game
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT CO.. 831 S. WABASH AVE., CHICAGO
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 w 59

.
campaign,
. . What
Santa Monica to Host
SMPE'sConvenlion
HOLLYWOOD—Detailed reports on technical
progress being made in virtually every
phase of motion pictures,
television and
radio will be presented
during the 63rd semiannual
convention of
the Society of Motion
Picture Engineers, to
be held at the Am.bassador
hotel in Santa
Monica May 17-21.
Loren L. Ryder, Paramount
sound director
and SMPE president,
Loren L. Ryder
will be in charge of
the meeting.
Four sessions will be devoted to color and
three to video developments, these being considered
of prime importance to Ryder and
other SMPE members.
EXCELLENCE AND COLOR DOMINANT
"At the moment," Ryder said in disclosing
the convention's business schedule, "technical
excellence and color are the greatest
technical advantages that motion pictures
have as compared to television." As to the
influence video may exert on motion pictures,
Ryder admitted the SMPE cannot yet "give
a direct answer, but its members are making
it their business to keep the motion picture
industry and the public advised of all technical
possibilities."
The program will include:
An analysis and discussion of 16nim feature
film production by M. Robert Adams jr. and
Herman Schultheis, of Telefilm, Inc., with
Carl E. Hittle, RCA Victor engineer, to describe
a "distinctive 16min phonograph" designed
to check quality of narrow-gauge films
and projectors.
The theory of magnetic recording will be
reviewed by Dorothy O'Dea of RCA Victor,
who will also discuss experimental data taken
with the new RCA magnetic recording equipment.
Supplementary reports on the subject
will be presented by Glenn Dimmick, RCA,
Indianapolis, and J. L. Pettus, RCA Victor,
Hollywood.
New developments in the world of color
are slated for presentation by Dr. Isay Balinkin,
research scientist at the University of
Cincinnati. He will demonstrate sodium light,
the result of outside influences upon the
light source and other phases of the subject.
Experiences of a navy expedition fighting
photographic hardships caused by extreme
cold at the South Pole will be described and
shown by Lieut. Charles C. Shirley, navy bureau
of aeronautics. Called "Operation High
Jump," the expedition was recorded on 35mni
film, which will be projected at the convention.
TO DEMONSTRATE HOME FILM
Home soimd color motion pictures projected
through radios by a device resembling and
operating like a record player are to be
demonstrated at another SMPE session. Using
12-inch records, the device will play ten
minutes of sound film projected on a standard
home projection screen.
Bruce Denney and Robert Carr of bhe
Paramount studio sound department will
describe a time-saving system of photographing
and recording dialog sequences having
=====^=======——==^==
PROGRAM OF ARMIT CONVENTION
9:00 a.m.- —Registration, mezzanine floor Cosmopolitan hotel.
10:30 a.m.- —Inspection of exhibits, mezzanine floor.
12:30 p.m.- —Business session,
2:30 p.m.-
5:30 p.m.
-Registration and inspection of exhibits.
—Sightseeing tour of mountains and luncheon in the Tepee
room for the women. Meeting place at the Friendship room.
10.30 a.m. —Business session, Room D.
9:00 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
Territory" by Messrs. Berger, Niles, Sullivan and Rembusch.
"Circuit Discounts for Members," Messrs. Beezley, Knight and
Ibold.
"Local ARMIT Caravan," Joe Ashby.
2:00 p.m.- —Luncheon.
5:30 p.m. —Business session, Room D.
"The ARMIT bulletin," John Wolfberg.
7:30 p.m.
TUESDAY
Room D mezzanine floor.
Convention welcome by John M. Wolfberg.
"The Government's Case Against the Motion Picture Companies,"
Abram F. Myers.
Open Forum.
—Luncheon for exhibitors and wives.
—Business session, Room D.
William Ainsworth, "National Allied . It Can Do for
Independent Exhibitors."
Col. H. A. Cole, "Small Town Clearances and Availabilities."
Sidney Samuelson, "The National Caravan and National
Sales Policies."
WEDNESDAY
Question and answer period on "What Is
Being Done in My
Discussion of a buying and booking combine in the Denver
exchange territory.
Election of officers and directors.
—First annual ARMIT banquet, rooms B, C and D.
musical backgrounds by means of a supersonic
frequency magnetic field.
One entire session will be given over to a
discussion of magnetic tape recording, with
papers to be presented by representatives of
RCA, the Armour Institute of Chicago, and
the central research laboratories of the Minnesota
Mining and Manufacturing Co.
Ryder expects to play host to approximately
1,500 SMPE conventioneers from all
parts of the U.S. and several foreign countries.
The SMPE membership includes more
than 2,500 cameramen, laboratory and studio
technicians, projectionists, physicists, photographic
chemists, film producers and executives,
sound and illuminating engineers, exhibitors,
theatre architects and managers,
equipment dealers, government officials and
students.
The society was founded in 1916 by a
group of engineers under the leader^ip of
C. Francis Jenkins of Washington, D. C, who
later became its first president.
To Use Moonlight System
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.—The Moonlight
Movies System, a drive-in system originated
by W. A. Tharp of San Bernardino, will be
utilized by Roy Hunt in the construction of
his new Rubidoux drive-in in West Riverside.
^
We
have the
YOUR
Sftt/iM. for
THEATRE
Count on u« ioT Quick Actioal
Out wid» coatacu with th* •xhiblton
ouur* you of •atiAfadory TMuttv
201 FIni Arts BU|. Portlvii S, Drtfaii
THEATRE EXCHANGE CO.
S. F. Theatres Support
Public Schools Week
SAN FRANCISCO—Lending active support
to a Public School week project, six
neighborhood houses of San Francisco Theatres,
Inc., directed by Irving M. Levin,
launched a cooperative drive urging motion
picture patrons to visit their community's
scholastic installations.
Two weeks previous to the civic project,
the theatres displayed 40x60 lobby posters
with copy which tied-in the circuit's recent
Freedom Train special matinees with the
message of school week. The same material
was shown in trailers on the screen.
While the entire circuit was active in the
the Coliseum Theatre, managed
by Albert Levin, made additional contributions
to the project. Levin booked for a special
showing a favorite film of children, Walt
Disney's "Bambi." He also gave a section of
his lobby to sample displays of school children's
art exhibits.
Altec Installations
SAN FRANCISCO—Altec Lansing's Voice
of the Theatre horn systems have been purchased
by the following theatres: Lake, Sandpoint,
Idaho: Rio, Arlington, Ore.; Ideal,
Heber City, Utah: Burbank, Los Angeles,
Calif.: Pine, Pineville, Ore.: Mesa, Clovis,
N. M.; Monogram studios, Hollywood, Calif.;
Helix, La Mesa, Calif.; Granada and Majestic.
Reno, Nev.; Renniees, San Fernando,
Calif., and the Seavue, Blaine, Wash.
60 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

I
ALL ALLIED GROUPS TO HAVE
REPRESENTATIVES AT DENVER
National Board Parley Will
Precede Rocky Mountain
ITO Convention
DENVER—Requests for reservations were
still coming in heavily for the Allied Rocky
Moimtain Independent Theatres convention
May 17-19. The lateness of this is explained
by the now nonconsummated railroad strike.
Even with complete plans made for truck
shipment of films there would have been
some confusion in film delivery in the event
the strike had materialized, and with that
threatening many exhibitors hesitated to
commit themselves for the convention dates.
The convention will be preceded by the
meeting of the board of national Allied May
15-17, with both gatherings set for the Cosmopolitan
hotel. The board will mull over
questions that have arised since the last
board meeting, and wUl discuss new phases
of other problems. Every one of the Allied
groups will be represented at the meeting.
COURT DECISIONS NO. 1
TOPIC
The principal subject up for discussion
there will be "The Government's Case Against
the Motion Picture Companies," which will
be discussed in detail by Abram F. Myers,
chief counsel.
There will be a considerable number of
independent exhibitors, not now members of
Allied, and theatre owners from territories
that have no Allied unit, present at the
Rocky Mountain Allied convention. Many of
the board members will stay over also and
some of them will present certain subjects
that will form the basis of open forums to
follow their talks.
The first speaker of the convention will
be Myers, who will go into detail on the
government case against the producers and
distributors. He wUl point out the increasing
number of legal rights and prerogatives of
the independent exhibitors, and will enumerate
the restrictions which have been
placed on the distributors. He will go into
the recent supreme coui"t decision fully, and
will point out how it has made radical changes
in sales policies. Members are urged to bring
their questions for Myers to answer.
NATIONAL PRESIDENT TO SPEAK
William Ainsworth, Allied president, will
speak on "National Allied—What It Can Do
for the Independent Exhibitor Throng'h Its
Regional Association."
Col. H. A. Cole will start off the discussions
in one of the open forums by talking
on "Small Town Clearances and Availabilities."
Sidney Samuelson will lead the forum on
"National Caravan and National Sales Policies."
The second day will be given to business
sessions, as well as to local problems. Joe
Ashby, general manager of Rocky Mountain
Allied, will discuss the local ARMIT caravan;
John Wolfberg. president, will talk on
the ARMrr bulletin, and four national directors
will tell "What Is Being Done in My
Territory."
Circuit discounts will come up for discus-
Denver territory men attending the Rocky Mountain Allied convention, top
panel, left to right: Neal Beezley, Burlington, Colo.; John Wolfberg, Denver; Joe
Ashby, Denver; Robert Spahn, Mitchell, Neb.; Fred Lind, Rifle; Kenneth Powell,
Wray, and Robert Smith, Steamboat Springs, Colo.
Bottom panel; Sidney Samuelson, Philadelphia; Col. H. A. Cole, Dallas; Trueman
Rembusch, Indianapolis, and John Wolfberg, Denver. All will give talks.
sion, and the question of establlshuig a buying
and booking combine in
the Denver territory
will be gone into. A committee composed
of Neal Beezley, Tom Knight and Walter
Ibold have been working on these problems
for some time and will have some real
information for the listeners.
John Wolfberg, local president, wUl preside.
The meeting will close Wednesday with
election of officers and directors, and with a
dinner dance in the evening at the hotel.
Avalon in Portland Sold
To Walter F. Gildner
PORTLANI>—C. R. McPadden, owner of
the Oregon Theatre here, sold his Avalon
to Walter F. Gildner, former owner of the
Timber, Ore., Power & Light Works Co. One
of Portland's outstanding neighborhood
houses, the Avalon had been operated by
McFadden's son John. The Theatre Exchange
Co. set the transaction.
Fox West Coast Managers
Named Showmen of Month
LOS ANGELES—Eight managers in Fox
West Coast's southern California district
were among the 26 who received special $100
cash awards and Showmen of the Month
titles in National Theatres' cun-ent sixth annual
showmanship campaign.
The southern California octet includes
Roy Evans, Academy, Inglewood: Gordon
Wood, Valley, San Fernando: Beach Abrams,
Loyola, Los Angeles: Fi-ank Calbos, Imperial,
Long Beach: Ralph Hathaway, Stadium, Los
Angeles: Sterling Way, Fox, Pomona: Arthur
Paulson, North Park, San Diego, and Bob
Cottom, Fox, Bakersfield.
There will be two more Showmen of the
Month events, to be followed by a division i
final.
Frederick Mercy Sells Park
YAKIMA, WASH.—Frederick Mercy jr.
of
Mercy Theatres has sold his Parker Field
baseball park to Dick Richards and Vernon
Johnson, both of California.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 61

LOS ANGELES
Mate Gerson, Monogram booker in Cleveland,
visited friends and relatives here
recently. His nephew is Murray Gerson, local
Monogram booker . . . Harry Rackin and
Sid Lehman, Exhibitors Service Co., are
booking and buying for the Amba-ssador Theatre,
owned by the Ambassador Hotel Corp.
. . Morse
Two new theatres will go up soon in Cucamonga,
Calif. Louis Torres is planning to
erect a 500-seater, while L. J. Roderegiez,
owner of a 235-seat house in the area, will
build a new 502-seat theatre
Rebwyn bought the Grand in
.
Anaheim and
appomted Eddy Goldberg, manager. Eddy's
father Lou owns the Dale in Long Beach.
. . . The
The Filmrow cafe will be closed starting
May 22 for a complete renovation
local Metro exchange is getting its face lifted,
Art Wallace, long-time exhibitor,
too . . .
and W. V. Hyman have opened a theatre premium
office known as Theatre Attractions.
They plan to handle all types of theatre
giveaways . . . Mr. and Mrs. Joe Veneable
are taking a vacation trip to Honolulu.
. . . The
Jack LawTence was named representative
for Sonney Roadshow Attractions. He formerly
was with Eagle Lion here
Levere Corp., an offspring of Drive-In Theatres
of Anaerica, is building a 1,000 car
drive-in theatre at Jefferson and Sepulveda
in Los Angeles. Construction is also under
way on its new drive-ins in Ojai and San
Bernardino. All of the new open-air houses
are under the Louis P. Jasserendi patents.
The Gilmore Drive-In here and the Valley
Drive-In, Ontario, of which Seth Perkins
is an executive, are also under these patents.
Recent Row visitors: Charles Feldman,
division manager for U-I; Judge LeRoy Pawley,
Desert Theatre, Indio; James Loomis of
the Vista, Douglas, Ariz.; Ray Homestead,
Arizona; Fred Hershon, Garden, east Los
Angeles; Ben Arenda, Eureka, Brawley; S.
and Jay Burgerf, Del-Mar, Carpenteria; Jack
Colbo and Everett Cummings, Victor Meralta,
13 PI o o u e jT I ei M g
Trailers in Color
At a Price You Can Pay
1977 S. Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles 7,
RE. 2-0621
California
THE MODERN PROJECTOR
1S7 Golden Gale Ave., San Francisco 2, Calif.
Phone Underhill 7571
Downey; E. D. Patterson, Elsinore; Harris
Anderson, Glendale; Al Levoy, Crown, Pasadena;
Morris Kurston, Boulevard Theatre,
east Los Angeles; Ned Calvi, Plaza, Hawthorne,
and T. E. Tobin, Aloha, Los Angeles.
Filmrow travelers: Ben Wallerstein, Warner
circuit executive, and Leo Miller, circuit
buyer, planed for New York to attend a
meeting of theatre chieftains at the home
office . . F. A. Bateman, general sales manager
.
for Screen Guild Productions, left for
exchange and circuit sessions in Kansas City,
St. Louis, Oklahoma City and Dallas . . . The
executive head of the Film Classics west
coast division, Sam Wheeler, returned from
San Fiancisco . . . George A. Smith, Paramount
western division manager, returned
from a week's trip to the midwest . . W. E.
.
Callaway, United Artists western district
manager, pulled out for a business trip to
Portland and Seattle.
Court Decision, Television
SCTOA Discussion Topics
LOS ANGELES—The recent supreme court
decision in the government's antitrust case
against the major companies will be analyzed
at a roundtable discussion by members of
the Southern California Theatre Owners
Ass'n at a special luncheon meeting called
for May 24 at the Ambassador hotel.
Recent SCTOA activities also wiU be reviewed,
particularly as concerns the labor
and television fields.
Meanwhile James H. Nicholson, operator
of the Picfair Theatre here and chairman
of the SCTOA's television committee, staged
a demonstration of his 16mm television recording
device for interested showmen at a
May 13 "preview" at his theatre. Nicholson,
who has formed Television-Relay, Inc., to
handle the device, has not yet formulated
plans for the commercial use of the system.
It is the result of experimentation in photographing,
on 16mm film, events as they are
being telecast, which film is then processed
rapidly and tlu-own on the theatre screen.
Hardwick Takes Cruise
CLOVIS, N. M.—Russell Hardwick, Clovis
theatre owner, has left for a six-week cruise
which will take him to South America. He
left here for New York and Montreal, where
he was to board a freighter that would make
stops in various Caribbean and South American
ports.
BEG PARDON, AL GALSTON
A photo in the May 8 issue of BOXOFFICE
showed Al Galston, owner of the Hollywood
Music Hall theatres and a Variety Club director,
chatting with "Silver Dollar" Jake
Schreiber at the recent Variety International
convention in Miami, Fla. Galston and
Schreiber are old friends for whom the
Variety convention was their first reunion in
25 years. Identification lines under the May
8 photo erroneously gave the name of Dave
Bershon, also a Los Angeles exhibitor, in
place of Galston.
There Will ALWAYS
Be a MANLEY Man!
W. H. TURPIE, Western Division Manager
1914 So. Vermont. RE 7528 Los Angeles 7. Calii.
SAN FRANCISCO
n motion picture made in Redwood City in
1915 of a baseball game between married
and single men was given a sound track and
screened at the Sequoia Theatre there as part
of the anniversary celebration of the theatre
and the Redwood City Tribune.
.
More than 500 newspaper carriers and their
friends were guests at a free show given by
Fox West Coast Theatres in cooperation with
the San Mateo Times. The carriers agreed
to cari-y literature in behalf of the United
Bud Abbott
Nations Appeal for Children . . .
and Lou Costello were on the stage of
the Paramount for the opening of "The
Noose Hangs High." They were guests of
the Variety Club for dinner .
joined the star cast for the I
. Lena Home
Am American
day celebration here. In addition to her, the
program had Danny Kaye, Ginger Rogers and
the dancing DeMarcos . . . Mary Pickford,
Frances Langford and Dick Powell were
among the galaxy of stage and screen stars
participating in the Los Angeles-Contra Costa
county mass flight.
. . .
John Grichuhin is the new manager of the
Verdi Theatre in San Francisco. He has
been associated with Golden State for two
years Ben Babb, exploitation man for
Selznlck Releasing Organization, was up from
Los Angeles to work on the "Duel in the
Sun" opening at the Paramount. It was the
film's first showing here at regular prices
. . . E. M. Graybill of the San Miguel Theatre,
San Miguel, was on the Row saying
hello to friends.
Lew Serbin, owner of Dance Art Co., has
returned from a three-month tour of Europe
and the middle East. He visited 21 nations.
The junior executive dance at the Variety
Club proved to be a great success. Proceeds
went into the heart fund. Committee chairman
was Stanley Lefcourt, Golden State circuit.
Others who helped make the party a
success were Morris Rosenberg, Golden State
circuit; Phil Harris, United Artists exchange;
Ted Gelber, Paramount; Al Corley, UA; Gene
Newman, 20th-Fox; Hal Gruber, RKO, and
Hal Flannigan, EL.
Bob Davis is the new twoker at the 20th-
Fox exchange. Davis filled the vacancy left
by Gene Newman, who moved into the 20th-
Fox division office.
Second Project Charted
By Westates Circuit
PASADENA—The second unit in the new
Westates circuit headed by Terry McDaniel
and J. E. Poynter will be the Lamada, a 750-
seater on which construction will begin
shortly. Unit will cost about $160,000 and is
expected to be ready for operation in October.
Westates is also constructing the Artesia, a
550-seater, in Artesia, Calif.
Spokane Drive-In Open
SPOKANE—The Auto-Vue Drive-In on
North Division was opened by Ray Straywich
and C. W. Young, who bought the interests
of the former owner, J. J. Rosenfield,
operator of the Post Theatre downtown.
62 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

MOTIOGRAPH
THE
WIDE
OPEN
SECRET
V\
JN OW it's
a wide open secret that no
other projector gives the quiet running
and projection quahty that Motiograph
gives.
This is
proven by every Motiograph
delivery, and the reason is no secret
either. Motiograph is the first projector
in history to give you the full combination
of modern design, super machining
to tolerances never before attained
and w^ith every feature projectionists
have long wanted. These mean that
NOW you can have performance on the
screen far beyond all past standards of
quality, comfort of operation for the
projectionists and, above all, freedom
from maintenance cost.
B. F.
SHEARER COMPANY
2318 Second Avenue
ELIiol 8247
PORTLAND
1947 N, W. Kearney
ATwaler 7543
SAN FRANCISCO
243 Golden Gale Ave.
UNderhill 1-1816
LOS ANGELES
1964 South Vermont
Rochester 1145
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 62-A

'
NEW THEATRE CONSTRUCTION
SEBASTOPOL, CALIF.—Construction has
been resumed on the Analy Theatre after a
delay of several months. Forms for the
foundation had been laid before rain halted
the project. The theatre will have 850 seats
in a stadium arrangement. The building
will also house a candy store and another
small store of some kind. Dan Tocchini and
Tony Gambogi, owners of the El Rey Theatre,
said they probably will operate the
latter house on weekends only when the
Analy is opened.
NEWPORT, ORE.—A 600-seat theatre
will
be opened here within the next few weeks
by Mrs. Elizabeth Slaney of Portland, owner
of theatres in Multnomah and Lincoln counties.
The new building will house three
mercantile establishments as well as the
theatre, and ultimately there will be a 24-
unit apartment house on the north side of
the building.
TURLOCK, CALIF — The new Turlock
Theatre is being readied by Fox West Coast
for opening about June 15, according to
George Atton. local manager. The house has
stadium-type seating and a capacity of 1,050.
It will show second run pictures. Atton said
the theatre is being opened at a cost of
about $175,000. It features an indoor garden,
cooling system and indirect lighting.
STOCKTON, CALIF. — Construction
has
been started by Westside Theatres on an
850-seat theatre in east Stockton and Rotus
Harvey, vice-president of the circuit, said
the house would be ready for operation by
November. The theatre will be much like the
Westside circuit's Stockton Theatre, Harvey
said, except that it also will have a soda
fountain accessible from either the theatre or
the street. There will be a 65xl50-foot parking
lot next to the theatre. Harvey said the
circuit plans to build still another theatre
in the southern part of the city after the
new one is up.
LOS ANGELES—The city
council has approved
zone changes to permit construction
of a $250,000 drive-in theatre on the north
side of Victory boulevard, adjacent to the
east side of the Tujimga wash. The area
was reclassified from single family and multiple
dwelling to commercial. An 11-acre
parcel was rezoned. The zone change was
asked by W. H. Lollier, who said the new
drive-in would be "the most beautiful in the
world."
BEST IN QUALITY
FILMACK
BEST IN SERVICE
THREE COMPLETELY EQUIPPED PLANTS
NEW YORK LOS ANGELES CHICAGO
245 Wel«
1574 W.
1327 S.
55»h it.
Woshingfon
Woboih
BIJOU, CALIF.—A 450-seat theatre is being
built on Highway 50, near the state line,
by Rudy Buchanan and Charles Johnston
of Beverly Hills. It is expected to be ready
for opening about the middle of June. It
will be known as the Lakeside. Johnston
formerly managed theatres in Palm Springs,
Arrowhead and Big Bear.
QUINCY, CALIF.—Plans have been prepared
by Huhrt Goodpaster, Sacramento
architect, for complete remodeling of the
Town Hall Theatre here. The new theatre
will have a balcony and loge section and
seats for 600. An architect's sketch of the
new front shows a small store on each side
of the entrance, the boxoffice set back under
a triangular marquee, and a modernistic
upper-structure with name sign reaching almost
three stories high. A canopy at the
top of the building extends out over the
street.
Metro Will Launch
FM Station May 27
HOLLYWOOD—Filmdom's elite,
as well as
civic and industrial leaders in the southland,
will be on hand to participate in the ceremonies
when Metro inaugurates its new frequency
modulation station, KMGM, May 27
under supervision of its general manager,
William F. MacCrystall.
The program will get under way in the
afternoon and will include salutes from top
recording and film singers, including Andy
Russell, Dinah Shore, Doris Day, Dick
Haymes, Tony Martin and others. The closing
program, the "Cavalcade of Stars," will
be presented on a giant stage in Rexall
Square. Pi'oduced and narrated by Carey
Wilson, Metro short subjects producer, the
cavalcade will star most of Metro's contract
players.
KMGM's transmitter and studios are located
in Coldwater Canyon, Beverly Hills.
It is the first FM station to be operated by
Metro on the west coast.
From the BOXOFFICE Files
(Twenty Years Ago)
•pHE last of the "counti'y store" lawsuits
has been disposed of in the acquittal of
Joseph Roth and M. L. Sanders. Roth operates
the Rivoli in Denver and Sanders had
charge of the "country store." The decision
was made following a directed verdict by the
court. A former case went to a jm-y. Operating
a lottery was charged.
* * *
. . .
J. H. Ashby, First National manager in
Denver, is back from Chicago Sam H.
Cain, Universal manager, will leave for San
Francisco soon . . . R. J. Garland, MGM
manager, has been in Kansas City . . . S. B.
Rahn, Tiffany-Stahl manager, has been in
Los Angeles.
* * •
On Denver Filmrow: V. S. Hennen, owner
and manager of the Midway, Bm-lington,
Colo.; "Mickey" McParland, Essaness, Rushville.
Neb.
Denver Antitrust Case
Goes to Trial in June
DENVER—The antitrtist suit filed by the
Broadway Theatre here against affiliated local
exhibitors and film distributors is scheduled
to come to trial next month in U.S.
district court in Wilmington, Del.
Cinema Amusements, Inc., which operates
the Broadway, filed the suit against Twentieth-Fox,
Fox Intermountain Theatres, and
RKO and Loew's, joint owners of the Orpheum
Theatre. Damages of $3,000,000 were
asked. John Wolfberg, president of Rocky
Moimtain Allied, heads Cinema Amusements.
The suit declares that the distributors and
affiliated theatres have conspired to deprive
the Broadway of suitable product. It points
out that the Broadway Theatre, while operated
by Fox Intermountain, was a moveover
and second run house and that since the lease
has been in the liands of Cinema Amusements
it has been unable to get pictures for
early showing. Cinema Amusements took over
the Broadway Nov. 1, 1946.
A lengthy analysis of the supreme court
decisions of two weeks ago and their likely
effect on the local case was printed in the
Rocky Moimtain News last week. The case
for Cinema Amusements is being handled
by Thurman Arnold, former head of the
antitrust division of the U.S. Department of
Justice.
New Accounts Are Inked
For Service by Altec
LOS ANGELES — The signing of agreements
for sound service by the following has
been announced by Altec Service:
Arizona—Rialto and Grand in Clarkdale,
Nogales in Nogales, Lyric in Douglas, Elks
in Prescott, Lyric in Bisbee, Lowell in Lowell,
Grand and Lyric in Miami, Ritz in Jerome
and Parker in Parker.
California—Winona in Scoti, Maribel in
Weott, Vogue in Alameda, Mayfield in Palo
Alto, Centre in San Francisco, Roxy in Visalia
and Trinity in Weaverville.
Colorado—Rederal, Oriental and Egyptian
in Denver, Ritz in Las Animas and Cactus in
Limon.
Idaho—Liberty in Haley and Roxy in Twin
Falls.
Montana—Rex in Scobey.
Oregon—Mount Angel in Mount Angel and
Amphi and Jewel Box in Portland.
Washington—Elwha in Port Angeles, Jewel
Box andi Lake in Seattle, Alpine in Leavenworth,
and Pi-incess in Pi-osser.
'Faces West' Opening Tied
To Rough Rider Ceremony
SANTE FE—"Pour Faces West" (UA)
opened at the Lensic and Burro Alley theatres
here Saturday (15) as part of the 50th
anniversary celebration of the formation of
the Rough Riders. Governor Mabry and
state and army officials attended. Army and
ah- force units from Ft. Bhss and William
Beaumont General hospital at El Paso also
were present. Survivors of the original Rough
Rider regiments were honored guests.
Joel McCrea and Fi'ances Dee, stars of
the film, and Harry Sherman, producer, took'
part in the ceremonies.
62-B BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

—
—
—
—
_
——
— —
—
—
—
—
—
. . Henry
. . Oscar
. . Central
. .
'Unconquered' Leads
Portland With 150
PORTLAND — "Unconquered" and "State
of the Union" topped the town last week.
Both pictures had block-long lineups over
the weekend. "Tlie Bishop's Wife" in its fifth
week still drew well enough to be held over
for the sixth.
(Average is 100)
Broadway Stale oi the Union (MGM); Heorl
ol Virginia (Rep) - 130
United Artists—The Naked City (U-I),
2nd d. t. wk 120
Mayfair Piluri (SR); Road to the Big House
(SG) 90
Guild—The Noose Hangs High (EL), Man
From Texas (EL), 2nd d, t wk 100
Paramount Adventures of Robin Hood (WB);
Bowery Buckaroos (Mono) 90
Oriental and Orpheum Unconquered (Para) 150
Playhouse Fury at Furnace Creek (20th-Fox);
The Prince of Thieves (Col), 2nd d. t. wk 80
Music Box—The Bishop's Wife (RKO); The Sign
of the Ham (Col), 5th d. t. wk 100
Six Reissues on Bills at
Los Angeles First Runs
LOS ANGELES—Emphatically demonstrating
the present shortage of new first run
product, six reissues were among the attractions
gracing local marquees. In most instances
they failed to draw even normal
business. Best mark of the week was set by
"Letter Prom an Unknown Woman," chalking
up a 150 per cent rating in its initial stanza
in five day-date situations.
Belmont, Culver, El Rey, Orpheum, Vogue
Sahara (Col); Destroyer (Col), reissues 100
Chinese, Loyola, State, Uptown Fury at Furnace
Creek (20th-Fox),- 13 Lead Soldiers (20th-Fox),
2nd wk 115
Guild, Iris, Rit2, Studio City, United Artists-
Letter From an Unknown Woman (U-I); Port
Said (Col) 150
Downtown, Hollywood Poramounts The 'Sainted'
Sisters (Para) 90
Eayptian, Los Angeles, Wilshire—State of the
Union (MGM), 2nd wk 140
Four Music Halls Summer Storm (UA); Abroad
With Two Yanks (UA), reissues 90
Pontages, Hillstreet—Valley of the Giants (WB);
The Fighting 69th (WB), reissues 80
Warners' Downtown, Hollywood, Wiltern The
Woman in White (WB); Always Together (WB)..125
"Sitting Pretty' Still Top
In Seattle in Sixth Week
SEATTLE—Grosses continued low here
despite lots of help from cold, wet weather.
All newcomers had to struggle hard to hit
average business. The only bright spot was
at the Blue Mouse where 20th-Pox's "Sitting
Pretty" wound up its run with 135 in a
final week.
Blue Mouse Sitting Pretty (20th-Fox);
Whispering City (EL), 6th d. t. wk 135
Fifth Avenue Ruthless (EL); An Ideal Husband
(20th-Fox) 60
Liberty-The Mating of Millie (Col); The
Woman From Tangier (Col) 110
Music Box—The Bishop's Wife (RKO); Speed
to Spare (Para), 4th d, t. wk 120
Paramount-Fury at Furnace Creek (20th-
Fox); My Girl Tisa (WB) 85
Orpheum—Casbah (U-1); The Challenge
(20th-Fox), 4 days, 2nd wk 60
Music Hall—The Bride Goes Wild (MGM);
Half Past Midnight (20lh-Fox) 110
Palomar—The Big Clock (Para); The Inside
Story (Rep), 3rd wk 120
Roosevelt—The 'Sainted' Sisters (Para);
Bowery Buckaroos (Mono) _ 130
'Lady From Shanghai' Has
Best San Francisco Figure
SAN FRANCISCO — "The Lady From
Shanghai" opened at the Esquire with a loud
175 and at the Orpheum with a good 150.
"Fury at F^u-nace Creek" opening at the Pox
and "State of the Union" opening at the
Warfield both rated 160.
Esquire and Golden Gate The Lady From
Shanghai (Col); Trapped by Boston Blackie
(Col)
,153
F°'=—Fury at Furnace Creek (20th-Fox);
EXTRA! EXTRA!—Frank Pratt, manager
of Evergreen's Paramount in Portland,
shows how it's done. Honor guest
at the Ex-Newsboys Ass'n banquet, Pratt
(right) is shown with Gus Fisher, retired
newsman. Gov. John H. Hall and
other Oregon leaders also were feted at
the banquet.
13 Lead Soldiers (20th-Fox)
Paramount Ruthless (EL); Madona of the
160
Desert (Rep) 120
St. Francis—Hatters Castle (Para) 130
State Panhandle (Mono), 2nd d. t. wk.;
Fighting Mad (Mono)
United Artists Smart Woman (RKO, reissue;
100
Ginger (Mono) 90
United Nations Sitting Pretty (20th-Fox);
The Tender Years (20th-Fox), 2nd d. t. wk 120
Warfield—State of the Union (MGM) 160
Denver Holdovers Hold Up;
Newcomers Score Nicely
DENVER—The holdover films, "The 'Sainted'
Sisters" at the Denham, and "State of
the Union" with "Hollywood Bam Dance"
at the Orpheum, held up nicely, the former
tying its opening week.
Aladdin Song oi My Heart (Mono) 140
Denham—The 'Sainted' Sisters (Para), 2nd wk 140
Denver, Esquire and Webber Adventures of
Robin Hood (WB), reissue; Arthur Takes
Over (20th-Fox) 108
Orpheum State of the Union (MGM); Holly^vood
Bam Dance (SG), 2nd wk 130
Paramount Adventures of Casanova (EL);
The Man From Texas (EL) 125
Ricrito Fury at Furnace Creek (20th-Fox);
French Leave (Mono), 2nd d. t. wk 140
Tabor—Stand-in (Associated Film); House
Across the Bay (Associated Film), reissues 140
Yakima Theatre Party
YAKIMA, WASH.—One thousand Yakima
valley schoolboy patrolmen were guests of
Mercy theatres here at a special show May
7 at the Capitol. The curtain rose at 1:30
p. m. on a full afternoon's entertainment of
films, magic, music and dancing. Following
the last western thriller on the screen, the
young patrolmen marched up Yakima avenue
to the Franklin Junior high school for
dinner. Later they invaded Parker Field
baseball park for a professional ball game
at which medals were awarded three local
boys for saving an aviator's life at the municipal
airport last fall.
Empire Theatrical Consultants
Exclusive distributors for Poblocki & Sons Pr(-
designed Theatres, Fronts, Boxoffices Poster
Cases, etc. 323 to 6S9 seat houses. Immediate
construction.
925 21sl St. TAbor 4962 Denver. Colo.
DENVER
f^has J. Duer, who resigned as Paramount
salesman here to go with Selznick, has
rejoined Paramount as branch manager. He
succeeds Walter P. Weins, who, after being
here about two months, re.signed and went to
Dallas without announcing his plans. Duer's
appointment is effective May 17. Hugh Braly,
district manager, announced.
Hugh Rennic, for years a salesman for
20th-Fox. has joined Lon T. Fidler's Monogram
exchange here as sales manager. Rennie
was branch manager for 20th-Fox at
various times in Memphis, Omaha and Milwaukee.
At one time he and Fidler were together
with United Artists.
William Haistings, Orpheum manager, went
i:o New York to represent this territory at
the meeting of the Motion Picture Foundation.
Charles Gilmour, trustee, was prevented
from going because of a world premiere
at one of his theatres. Ten men each put
up $100 to raise the $1,000 assigned to this
area . . . P, D, Mahoney, theatre decorator
in Dallas, formerly with Interstate Theatres,
is now connected with Inland Amusement
Corp. in Denver.
Poppers Supply has installed air conditioning
in its offices and warehouse on Filmrow
to prevent deterioration of popcorn and
candy . . . B. A. Dixon, manager of the
Gothic, and Mrs. Dixon are parents of a baby
girl. Debra Carol Dixon, born last week .
E. J. Willis, Atlas Theatre auditor, entered
St. Joseph's hospital for an operation.
John Thomas resigned as Monogram salesman
to join Central Booking, and is operating
the Vogue and Alpine . Booking
has reopened its newly acquired Avalon
after extensive remodeling and changed the
name to the Navajo . . . Sam Felnstein is
doing an extensive remodeling job on the
Rialto, Haxtun, Colo., which he bought last
year . Friedel, Metro branch manager,
made a road sales trip with Jimmy
Micheletti, salesman, the first time Friedel
has been on the road for some time.
Denver exchanges had arrangements all
made to handle film shipments by truck in
event of a railroad strike, but never had to
put the plan into operation. The arrangements
had been worked out by a committee
consisting of Kenneth MacKaig, chairman;
Charles J. Duer, Charles DuRyk. Fred KnlU,
Joe Ashby, William Agren and Lynn Fetz.
.
Foster Blake, U-I district manager, was
here from his headquarters in Los Angeles
and spent two days calling on accounts and
conferring with Mayer Monsky, branch manager
Oldknow, vice-president of
National Theatre Supply, was a visitor . . .
Exhibitors shopping on the Row from out
of town included Fred O. Anderson of Eaton,
Colo.; Robert Spahn of Mitchell. Neb.; Dr.
F. E. Rider of Wauneta, Neb., and Mr. and
Mrs. Lewis Gray of Sagauche, Colo.
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948
62-C

. . Herbert
. . Dan
PORTLAND Fox Drops Us Fight
Trv BowTon, salesman for the local Theatre
Exchange Co.. was called to Seattle to testify
in the trial of Giezentanner vs. Dunsforth
regarding percentage leases. Giezentanner
is seeking to enforce specific performance
of a lease made some time ago for
the new theatre on Vashon island in Washington
Mort Bramson reports
state . . . Screen Guild Manager Gordon Craddock is
now on a sales trip dowTi the coast to Grant's
Pass. Craddock will return the valley route.
Jim Clark, Columbia salesman, and Jim Sheffield,
Republic, are in eastern Oregon on
sales
trips.
Visitors on Filmrow included Harry Percy
of the Avalon in Clatskanie,
Clark of Molalla . . . Fern Shaw.
and exhibitor
RKO cashier,
left on a two-week vacation to Kansas
. . . Philip Van Swoll, an unusually clever
tap dancer, won the Capitol vaudeville prizes
last week . Royster. manager of
the Mayfair. reports Tallulah Bankhead will
star in "Private Lives" this month on the
Mayfair state, starting May 24.
. . .
Archie Zarewski, manager of the Music
Box. is back in town after his rush visit to
Idaho Falls to be at the bedside of his mother.
His mother underwent a serious operation,
but Archie stated that she is expected to
recover Bob Anderson, manager of the
New-sreel. left on his long-awaited vacation
this week. He rated extra time and money
when he capped the Evergreen top prize for
showmanship during the winter.
A. M. Dunlop, administrator of the J. J.
Parker interests outside of Portland, was in
town for huddles with Jack Matlack and
Max Hadfield. northwest branch manager for
Selznick. Matlack hosted John Howard,
western division manager for SRO. and discussions
worked around placing Selznick's
products in Pendleton and Astoria . . "State
.
of the Union" looks as though it will break
the record set
Broadway.
by "Cass Timberlane" at the
Frank Pratt hired Portland's prodigy, Phil
Carlin jr., to play on the stage of the Paramount
as a Mother's day tribute ... All
Evergreen theatres invited mothers 60 or
older as their guests on Sunday . . . Mother's
day evening at the Broadway was something
to see. too. Dr. Emil Enna presented Ragnar
Olsen at the piano in "15 minutes of songs
and music dedicated to mother."
The Newsreel was showing scenes of the
pictures of the 96-boat expedition over the
McKenzie rapids near Eugene, taken recently
by Emery Parris . . . Alton Robbins had a
swell gimmick over the weekend on "Unconquered."
He hired a model to take a
bubble bath in a wooden tub in front of the
Orpheum.
Beth HaU, candy counter attendant at the
Paramount, will marry Mike Kennedy of the
local Pallady Welding Co, May 29.
Receive Bids for Life
LOS ANGELES—Bids have been received
for construction of the new pretentious Life
Theatre and store building for Southside
Theatres, Inc. The reinforced concrete showcase
will seat 1,500 patrons.
On Stockton Levy
STOCKTON. CALIF.—Fox West Coast
Theatres has withdrawn its suit against the
city of Stockton over the legality of the local
2-cent ticket tax but has retained the privilege
of reinstating the suit within two years.
Meanwhile, FWC is pursuing its fight on
the legality of such a tax against the city of
Bakersfield. It is assumed that the circuit
had the local case dismissed because it felt
it had a stronger position in Bakersfield and
that the decision there might influence the
tax here.
Theatres have paid $83,000 in taxes here
since the 2-cent levy went into effect 18
months ago, but Fox West Coast, which paid
about three-fourths of the total, has turned
the money over to the city under protest and
the city has been unable to put the money to
use. Bill Dozier, city attorney, is taking legal
steps in an effort to have the money made
available to the municipality.
PHOENIX
Jncreasingly warm weather, coincident with
the windup of the Phoenix tourist season,
is slowing business in most situations. Only
first run picture holding up at the boxoffice
was "State of the Union," which played an
extended run at the Orpheum. It was helped
along by a special preview and favorable
word-of-mouth reports. "Sitting Pretty" and
"April Showers" were weak entries when
played separately at the Fox, but teamed up
for moveover double bill at the Vista, they
were considerably better and held over another
week. "Alias a Gentleman," in its first
Phoenix showing, played a full week at the
second run Rialto, a split-week house.
Barry Storm, local writer and explorer,
appears to have hit the Hollywood jackpot
via his recent book, "Thmider God's Gold."
Columbia has bougrht film rights to the book.
Which deals with the legend surroimding
Superstition mountain, near Mesa, Ariz. The
picture version, which will be fOmed in Technicolor,
will feature Rita Hayworth, Glenn
Ford, William Holden, Evelyn Keyes and
Janis Carter. Storm will serve as technical
adviser during filming, and will also have a
part in the picture. Current plans call for a
Columbia troupe to check in here for background
shots.
Doorman Remembers Thief
YAKIMA. WASH.—Local detectives pay
tribute to Henry Wentz. doorman at a Mercy
theatre here, for his keen memory of a face.
Last January a March of Dimes box containing
$10 was stolen from the theatre by a 15-
year-old boy. On May 1 a 15-year-old boy
walked up to the theatre boxoffice to purchase
a ticket. He was immediately grabbed
by doorman Wentz, who called the police.
Later at police headquarters the boy admitted
stealing the dimes box.
Jess Walker and Wife Named
KENT, WASH.—Appointment of Mr. and
Mrs. Jess Walker as managers of the Vale
Theatre here was made by Will Andre, owner.
They formerly had charge of the Issaquah
Theatre and succeed Tommy Bauman at the
Vale.
SEATTLE
J^ottie Jameson of the Sterling office staff
is back after a two-week illness . . . Mart
Makins. manager of the Admiral in Bremerton,
upped his merchandise sales by holding
a Hershey week. Front and back bars bore
mass displays while attractive borders were
made with old Hershey wrappers . . . Sam
Siegel, Columbia western division exploitation
supervisor, was back at his old stamping
grounds for a business trip.
El Keyes, booker, and E. B. Sorenson,
Walla Walla city manager, both of Midstate
Amusement Co., were in towii during the
week . . . The Boeing Aircraft strike, affecting
13,000 employes, is hitting
.
hard
. . Frank Jenkins, 20th-Fox
business
exploitation
representative for San Francisco, has
been transfen-ed to the Denver-Salt Lake
territory.
Jo Furse of Film Classics and Jane Rasmussen
of Altec were among many Seattleites
who attended the recent Wenatchee Apple
Blossom festival . . Bill Colley, city manager
.
for Evergreen in Everett, received fine
cooperation from fire department and insurance
officials when he played the fire prevention
short. "Crimes in Carelessness." Both
groups helped out with window displays and
other promotion material.
Chilt Robinette, new manager for 20th-Fox,
held screenings for the press on "The Iron
Curtain," which opened at the Paramount
May 12 . . . The wife and two children of
Robert Blair, Paramount exploiteer, are visiting
The Bay Theatre
in San Francisco . . . at Manette goes on a seven-day, first run
policy after playing only weekends . . . Mike
Smith, western regional manager of the army
motion picture service, came up from San
Francisco. While here he lunched with Ralph
Abbett. Monogram manager.
Chris Casper, manager of the Blue Mouse,
held a Jazz at Midnight show last Saturday.
Featured on the stage was an aggregation
of well-known northwest jazz musicians . . .
Carnivals have been cutting into motion
picture business in the northern part of the
state in recent weeks . . . Charles Peldman
and Barney Rose, both of U-I, were up from
Los Angeles for conferences with George
DeWaide, local head, and his sales staff . . .
Jules Needelman. Columbia auditor, was a
visitor to the local branch.
Frank L. Newman sr. underwent an eye
operation recently but has recovered . . .
Out-of-town visitors to Filmrow during the
week included Bob Rosenberg, Mike and
Prank Barovic, Puyallup; Peter Barnes,
Chelan: E. J. Stierwalt. McCleary; Charles
Schuler. Tacoma: Clarence Baur, Bremerton;
Corbin Ball. Ephrata: Ben White. Poulsbo;
Loren Wahl. Bellingham; Joe Rosenfield,
Spokane; Willard Andre. Kent; Billy Conners.
Tacoina; Mrs. Del Osterhoudt, Des
Moines, and Charles Grieme. Wenatchee.
Herbert Rosener was in town for a meeting
with Alex Singelow, northwest representative
for Herbert Rosener Co. ... A. J.
Sullivan was in Portland for a meeting with
W. E. Callaway, western district sales manager
for UA . . . Local independent theatre
operators have pledged assistance in the coming
National Youth month . Redden,
manager of the Paramount, used a pair of
horses and a stage coach to ballyhoo the
20th-Fox release "Fury at Fuj-nace Creek."
:
62-D
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

-I I
Maurice Schweitzer
Into Drive-In Field
ST. LOUIS—Maurice Schweitzer lias resigned
as manager for Paramount here to
enter the drive-in theatre
field. He will be
an executive with a
recently formed corporation,
controlled
by St. Louis business
interests, that is building
800-car layouts in
Rockford, 111., and Lincoln,
Neb.
Schweitzer had been
with Paramount here
for some 20 years.
His resignation was
Maurice Schweitzer announced simultaneously
with announcement of the retirement
of Ralph C. LiBeau, Kansas City, as district
manager over Kansas City, St. Louis, Omaha
and Des Moines. Under a new organizational
setup, LiBeau will not be replaced.
Schweitzer started his film career as a
salesman for Paramount in Minneapolis
shortly after his graduation from the University
of Minnesota in 1921. He was transferred
to Kansas City as a salesman in 1924
and remained there until 1926, when he came
to St. Louis as resident manager. He will
remain here until his successor is named.
Leo F. Abrams, St. Louis architect, designed
the new drive-in theatres in which
Schweitzer will be interested. Each will cost
about $150,000. Major interests in the enterprises
are held by Mannie Burdie and Sidney
Schermer, both of St. Louis.
Talent Shows Inaugurated
By Jefferson, Fort Wayne
FORT WAYNE—The Jefferson Theatre
inaugurated a Wednesday evening talent
show April 28 and will continue the series
for 13 weeks. The half-hour stage performance
is in addition to the regular screen program.
Paul Price, local radio announcer and
disk jockey, is master of ceremonies. Weekly
prizes for first, second and third place
amount to $25. A month's pass to the theatre
goes to all entrants. Final winner will receive
$100 cash or an aU-expense weekend trip to
Chicago.
Tax in Alton, 111., Is 4 Pet.
ALTON, ILL.—The new theatre admission
tax ordinance as passed by city council in its
final form carries a rate of 4 per cent instead
of the 2 per cent as previously announced
in these colunms. City officials promised
that if the total receipts from the new tax
are greater than the funds needed by the
municipality there may be dowiiward revision
in the tax rate at some future day.
New Theatres Are Planned
For Three Illinois Towns
NAMEOKI, ILL.—A 690-seat theatre is
being constructed here by Samuel Nieberg
and associates. It is scheduled for completion
early in September. The theatre is to
include a cry room on a balcony adjacent to
the booth. Seating will be all on one floor.
The building is to be 52x120 feet with adjoining
parking lots 120x100 and 120x160. The
house will have a full stage and dressing
rooms. It will operate on a seven-day
schedule.
BETHALTO. ILL.—Michael Horn of Gillespie
has been issued a permit for construction
of a 500-seat theatre. The permit
calls for a two-story structure that will include
apartments on the second floor. The
Horn family will operate the theatre and
reside on the second floor. Work on the
structure has started.
WENONA, ILL.—Arthur G. Struck and
George Thyge of Mason City have pm--
chased a vacant lot here as the site for a
modern theatre. Construction on the 450-
seater will be started within the next week
and it is scheduled for completion by the
middle of September. Tentative plans call
for a two-story building 40x120 feet, with an
apartment suite over the lobby for the convenience
of the theatre manager and his
family.
E. F. Gallagher Resigns
As Centralia Manager
CENTRALIA, ILL.—E. French Gallagher
resigned as manager for Fox Midwest Theatres
recently to go into business on his own
account soon in either Texas or Oklahoma.
He has been succeeded here by Glenn Boner,
who was manager of the Globe Theatre in
Christopher, 111. Boner has been replaced at
the Globe by Earl K. Mitchell, who was promoted
from the post of assistant manager of
the Plaza in Marion, 111. Gallagher had been
with Fox Midwest ever since it took over the
Reed, Yemm and Hayes houses in southern
Illinois in 1930. When that big deal was
closed he was a projectionist in Marion, 111.
He had been with the circuit ever since, except
for the period during World War II when
he served as a captain in the army. He was
transferred to Centralia in 1938.
D. B. Stout Takes Over Arly
ARLINGTON, KY.—D. B. Stout, owner
and operator of a number of theatres in western
Kentucky and southern Illinois, has resumed
operation of the 300-seat Arly here.
The lease of R. L. Harwood expired April
24, at which time Harwood terminated his
contract to go to Mississippi, where he purchased
a theatre recently. Jimmy Dunn,
who has been connected with the Arly for
several months, is local manager for Stout.
Three Antitrust Cases
Pending in St. Louis
ST. LOUIS—The final effect of the recent
.series of supreme court decisions on motion
picture cases in this area defies conservative
prediction.
There are three antitrust film suits pending
in federal court here. One has been
the
brought by Fanchon & Marco attacking
New York federal court decision and the
American Arbitration Ass'n. This action grew
out of a clearance dispute filed with the local
AAA tribunal by Adolph Rosecan and the
Princess Theatre.
SHUBERT LESSEES SUE
Plaintiffs in the other actions are former
lessees of the Shubert. Fanchon & Marco,
various film distributing companies and individuals
are defendants. The Fanchon &
Marco interests and their affiliated corporations
are seeking total damages of $285,000
under the antitrust laws. An interesting
twist of this case is that two of the defendants,
Rosecan and Joseph Litvag and
the Apollo Theatre Corp., operators of the
Apollo Theatre, in their answers to the petition
of the St. Louis Amusement Co., Fanchon
& Marco Service Coitj., et al., have filed
coimter antitrust damage claims against the
plaintiffs.
Martin W. D'Arcy, who operated the Shubert
for about three months in 1942, filed a
suit Dec. 18, 1946, seeking $600,000 damages
from Fanchon & Marco and various corporate
and individual defendants, and last November
1 Victor G. Mossotti filed a suit in
federal court for $300,000 damages from
Fanchon & Marco, St. Louis Amusement Co.
and various film distributing companies,
charging that he was forced to cancel a fiveyear
lease on the Shubert 30 days after signing
it Oct. 5, 1942, because of an alleged
combination to restrain him from obtaining
adequate pictures. He claims to have suffered
an actual loss of $100,000. which under
the trebled damages provisions of the antitrust
act. makes his over-all claim $300,000.
GIRARDEAU SUIT PENDING
Some of the original defendants, among the
minor film companies, by stipulation of
counsel, have been dropped in both these
actions.
The original petition of Adolph Rosecan
in the clearance case before the AAA tribunal
here is still pending. It was directed against
Paramoimt, RKO, Warner Bros.. 20th-Fox
and Loew's, Inc., owners and operators of
all first run houses in St. Louis, and of the
Melba, Cinderella, Gravois, Shenandoah, Granada.
Ritz and Avalon theatres, all of which
have runs prior to the Princess.
There also is pending in federal district
court at Cape Girardeau, Mo., the antitrust
suit brought by the owners of the 800-seat
Esquire Theatre against various film distributing
companies and the owTiers of the rival
Broadway and Orpheum theatres, units of
the Fox Midwest chain.
John Riggs Dies
WAYNESVILLE, MO. — John Riggs, a
brother-in-law of "Buck" Lewis, general manager
for the Carney Theatres of RoUa, Mo.,
died here May 3. Riggs had been associated
with Lewis in the operation of motion picture
houses in Lebanon, Mo., until some ten
years ago.
Building in Bloomington
BLOOMINGTON, IND.—Construction of
a
500-car drive-in theatre is well under way
here and Roy O'Keefe, city manager in
Vincennes for the Alliance circuit, said he
hopes to have it in operation by late this
month. O'Keefe supervised the opening of a
new drive-in in Vincennes in April.
Skyway Is Not for Sale
INDIANAPOLIS—Edward Campbell, head
of the Indiana Outdoor Theatre Corp., reports
his Skyway Theatre in Louisville is not
for sale. Campbell has been approached on
several occassions by prospective buyers who
have been erroneously informed the Skyway
w^as up for sale.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 63

. . The
. . . Harry
ST.
LOUIS
^he St. Louis Theatre was still dark because
of the dispute between the management
and the stagehands union involving employment
of an extra stagehand. Projectionists
have refused to pass the stagehands
picket line. The theatre is owned by the St.
Louis Amusement Co. and is under Panchon
& Marco management.
Maury Stahl, former local theatre owner
and now owner of two houses in the Newark,
N. J., sector and another at Miami
Beach, was here for the funeral of Barney
Rosenthal, veteran Monogram and Allied
Artists manager . Post-Dispatch television
station KSD-TV will be linked with a
16-station television network from Missouri
to Massachusetts by the end of this year,
NBC has announced.
Andy Dietz, general manager of Cooperative
Theatres, has closed a contract to
do the booking and buying for the Joe
Schrempp's 500-car drive-in on the outskirts
of Highland, III. Dietz presently is booking
and buying for a total of ten theatres in
southern Illinois and eastern Missouri
Bud Edele, Film Classics manager,
. . .
was out
in the territory.
. . .
Richard Phillips, operating lessee of the
Algerian in Risco, had a tough break recently
when his fine new home, a five-room
modern bungalow, was destroyed by fire, apparently
caused by defective electric wiring
The seating capacity of the 500-seat
Liberty in Maiden, owned by H. Ferguson,
has been increased 50 per cent in the remodeling
and modernization which will be
completed within the next few weeks. The
theatre also has been extended 50 feet and
a modern air-conditioning refrigeration system
has been installed.
Out-of-town exhibitors seen along Filmrow
included Martin Operle, Ste. Genevieve;
Sam Pirtle, Jersey ville. 111.; Loren and Stewart
Cluster, sons of R. C. "Bob" Cluster of
Johnston City and Salem, 111.; Justus Garard,
Carthage, 111.; Ed Fellis, Hillsboro, 111.; Bill
Williams, Union; Dean Davis, West Plains:
Otto Ingwerson, Montgomery City; Izzy
Weinshenk, district manager for Publix Great
States, Alton, 111.; Gus Boemler, Norside, Alton,
111.; Joseph Goldfarb, Upper Alton, 111.,
and Leon Jarodsky, Paris, 111,
Charles Brechner, owner of the 250-seat
Premier in Grayville, III., which was destroyed
by fire April 23, is considering plans
for rebuilding. His loss was only partly covered
by insurance . . . Vincent H. "Red" Rost,
owner of the theatre in New Madrid, is supervisor
of a nine-hole community golf course
nearing completion there . . . Painters are
redecorating the Columbia exchange. C. D.
Hill worked out an interesting new blend of
restful green and lemon-tinted white for the
new color scheme.
Joe Feld, assistant manager of 20th-Fox,
was in Marion, Ky., to call on W. E. Horsefield
. . . L. R. Clutts, Royal, Royalton, 111.,
is feeling very well again after his recent
Jimmy Bradford wife of
illness . . .
the Columbia salesman, was expected to return
An
from the hospital this week extra day has been added to the Freedom
train's stop here. It will be exhibited on the
river front June 12-14 under the new plans.
Hall Walsh, prairie district manager for
Warner Bros., attended a meeting of district
managers in New York City . . . "Chick"
Evens, United Artists exploiteer, has been
conducting an "Ai-ch of Triumph" photo contest
in conjunction with the midwest premiere
of that picture at Loew's State May 13.
Any ex-GI in the St. Louis area who snapped
the world famed arch in Paris is eligible for
the contest and the prizes of $25, $15 and $10
for the best photos.
Used clothing and broken toys are being
solicited by Local 143A of the Moving Picture
Operators union for repair by its members
and distribution to the underprivileged. Local
No. 143A is composed of Negro projectionists.
Anyone having clothing or toys to
contribute is asked to call the union headquarters
between 10 a. m. and 6 p. m.
Gael Sullivan, newly appointed executive
director of the TOA, was in to speak at the
centennial celebration banquet of the Christian
Brothers college May 3 . . . Ninety county
agricultural fairs will be held in Illinois this
summer, an all-time high. The previous high
of 82 was set last year.
EiTol Flynn went to Columbia last week
with a Life magazine photographer "just
for a ride." He met his wife at Lambert-
St. Louis Municipal airport after fleeing
from Columbia where swarms of students
from the University of Missouri and Stephens
college took possession of most of his
personal belongings, including two picture
scripts. Flynn said he has requested the
dean of the university to post a notice requesting
the return of the scripts as soon
as the coeds finish reading them.
S. Sackson from the Sam Goldwyn offices
in New "^ork City was a visitor, as was Ben
Fish ... St. Louis friends of "Buddy" Rogers
were pleased to learn that he is returning to
pictures in "An Innocent Affair," comedy in
which he will be starred with Fred MacMurray
and Madeleine Carroll . . . John Walsh,
branch manager for Albert Dezel Productions,
reports his organization has taken over the
Favorite Films distribution.
The FCC recently awarded frequency
modulation licenses to the Northern Illinois
Broadcasting Co., Woodstock. 111., controlled
by H. Z. Benton and David R. Joslyn; to station
WCNT, Centralia, 111.; station WBYS,
Canton, 111., and station WQUA, Moline, 111.
C. Arthur, Franchon and Marco
chief executive, returned from a trip to the
west coast.
'The Stars' for 20th-Fox Release
The George Jessel magazine article, "I'm
the Star," will be produced for 20th-Fox release
under the title "Here Come the Stars."
MID-STATES THEATRE SUPPLY, INC.
3146 Olive St., St. Louis 3, Mo.
FORMERLY L. T. ROCKENSTEIN CO., INC.
MANLEY'S
SUPBEME POPCOBN
Has Been Purchased By
MORTON S. GOTTLIEB and HAROLD BLOCK
Greatest Popping Volume
per
cwt.
WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE OUR APPOINTMENT AS
DISTRIBUTORS OF
MOTIOGRAPH PROJECTORS, MOTIOGRAPH-MIRROPHONIC
SOUND SYSTEMS
F.O.B. St. Louis, Mo.
3% Discount for Cash
R. D. UOn ERGELn
Manley Representative
Eastern Missouri-Southern IlHnois
3138 OLIVE STREET
ST. LOUIS 3, MO. NE'wstead 7644
64
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948

"HOW TO MANAGE A THEATRE"
A Practical Guide to Successful Theatre Operation
First
Edition
a
Sellout!
Second
Edition
Selling
Fast!
Leam about motion picture theatre
management and operation by studying
this comprehensive book, which has
been endorsed by many leading executives.
Among the subjects treated in this
exhaustive manual are motion picture
distribution, theatre construction, heating
and air conditioning, buying and
booking pictures, picture projection,
duties of employees, advertising and
exploitation, details of theatre management,
and scores of others.
This book will help a manager to
build attendance on poor nights. It explains
why some theatres fail while
others succeed.
"During the course of a year, many
volumes of trade interest find their way
to our desk," wrote Phil M. in the Film
Price
Only
Postage
$5 Paid
Daily, "but none this year rates highei
than 'A Course in Motion Picture Theatre
Management,' by Sam Carver.
"Carver drew on the real 'know-hov/'
which is his after thirty years in show
biz. The result is a common sense
presentation, in simple language, of
what experience has taught him.
"Essentially designed for the newcomer
to the field, the basic information
set down by Carver should prove
invaluable in the schooling of new staff
personnel."
Order Today!
SAM
CARVER
°'^^'
^°^°y!
15 West Grand Avenue Highland Park 3, Michigan
i
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 65
f

—
Loop in the Dumps;
'Naked City' Bright
CHICAGO—Unsettled weather and plenty
of cold rain put a damper on grosses all week.
The only exception was "The Naked City."
which got good notices from the critics and
had a banner first week at the Palace. Other
first runs were off considerably, including
"To the Victor" at the Roosevelt. "The Hunted"
at the Grand and "Sitting Pretty" at the
Chicago. Besides "The Naked City," the only
show to do better than average was "Casbah,"
which was in its second week at the Oriental
and had Tony Martin heading the stage show.
(Average is 100)
Apollo Gentleman's Agreement (20th-Fox),
25th wk EO
Chicago Sitting Pretty (20th-Fox)
Garrick—Seven Sinners (EL); Sutter's Gold
( EL) , reissues
85
Grand—The Hunted (Mono)
90
Monroe H Winter Comes (MGM), 2nd wk... 90
Oriental Casbah (U-I), plus stage show,
2nd wk -
110
Palace—The Naked City (U-I)
120
Roosevelt—To the Victor (WB)
90
State-Lake—The Lady From Shanghai (Col),
plus stage show 100
Studio—Carmen (Teitel) 90
United Artists—High Wall (MGM), 2nd wk 85
Woods—Cass Timberlane (HKO), Sth wk 95
World Playhouse—Torment (Oxiord), Sth wk 90
'Mama' and 'Outlaw' Take
Top Milwaukee Scores
MILWAUKEE—"State of the Union" pulled
notable returns in its second week at the
Wisconsin. High percentages were garnered
by "I Remember Mama" at the Riverside and
"The Outlaw" at the Towne.
Alhambra—City Without Men (Col); Prison Without
Bars (UA), reissues 95
Palace— Let's Live Again (20th-Fox); The Mating
of MilUe (Col) 125
Riverside— I Remember Mama (RKO) 140
Strand—The Big Clock (Para); Love From a
Stranger (EL), 2nd d, t. wk 100
Towne—The Outlaw (UA), 2nd run 140
Warner—The Naked City (U-I); French Leave
(Mono), 2nd wk 135
Wisconsin—State ol the Union (MGM), 2nd wk 135
THREE
NEW YORK
245 West
55th S(.
FILMACK
i1^\^^:i-^
BEST IN SERVICE
COMPLETELY EQUIPPED PLANTS
LOS ANGELES
1574 W.
Washington
CHICAGO
1327 S.
Woboih
Drive-In Theatre Is Begun
Near Murphysboro, 111.
MURPHYSBORO, ILL.—Stakes have been
set on the site for construction of a $50,000
drive-in between here and Carbondale by
W. E. Waring jr., who operates the Ritz in
Cobden and the Doll in Jonesboro. It will
accommodate 550 cars.
This is the third drive-in announced for
this section of southern Illinois. John and
George Marlowe of Herrin and James Marlow
of Murphysboro, who operate fom- theatres
and the White City amusement park
near here, and the Lymar hotel and a wholesale
liquor business in Herrin, are constructing
a drive-in between Marion and the Crab
Orchard ordnance plant, while Harold Grear,
Wayne Smith and Hazen Coleman are building
a drive-in just north of the Macarin
airport between Herrin and Marion.
St. Louis Site Chosen
For Freedom Train
ST. LOUIS—The St. Louis Freedom Train
committee has selected First street between
the Eads and Douglas MacArthur bridges as
the site for the train's exhibition here June
12 and 13. The Terminal Railroad Ass'n will
handle the construction of a special temporary
track for the use of the train. The Motion
Picture Theatre Owners of St. Louis,
eastern Missouri and southern Illinois are
among the organizations cooperating in the
sponsorship of the train's visit.
Buys U City Theatre
UNIVERSITY CITY, MO.—The U City
Theatre, a 250-seater, has been sold by the
Goldman & Tobin circuit to Mrs. R. Steinberg,
who also operates the Madison in
Madison, 111. Mrs. Steinberg plans to place
one of her sons in charge of the theatre.
Opens Greenwood Drive-In
GREENWOOD, IND.—A. J. Hansen of Indianapolis
has opened the 750-car Greenwood
Drive-In Theatre.
Centennial Film on Paper
MENASHA, WIS.—The Wisconsin paper
industry is planning to show a 30-minute motion
picture at the Wisconsin centennial exposition
at Milwaukee August 7-29. The film
will be shown at the little Paper Theatre. A.
C. Gilbert, a Menasha paper manufactm^er,
has informed the centennial committee the
film will show the size and importance of
the paper industry in Wisconsin.
fAKE MORE MONEY PLAy/NG-
WAHOO
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
831 South Wabash Avenue • Chicago, Illinois
'Father Dunne' Bows;
Star O'Brien Is 111
ST. LOUIS—Pat O'Brien, star of "Fighting
Father Dunne" which had its world premiere
here Tuesday, was confined to his suite
at the Hotel Sheraton during the huge
Founders day parade here last Satui'day (8)
instead of riding in it as had been planned.
Filling in for him during the earlier celebration
were Mrs. O'Brien and Jane Wyatt,
feature player who had accompanied O'Brien
on his trip here.
The star of the film had been a victim of
blood poisoning and spent the day of the parade
soaking his infected hands in hot water.
He also had to cancel engagements to speak
at an American Legion luncheon and to visit
Father Dunne's Newsboys home.
Arrangements for the premiere were made
by Robert Johnson, director of advertising
and publicity for Pranchon & Marco-St. Louis
American Legion parade, witnessed by nearly
100,000 persons, a special radio broadcast, a
number of spot annomicements and interviews
were arranged.
Learning of O'Brien's misfortune, about 30
of the boys at Father Dunne's home visited
the film star in his room.
Just before the start of the parade, Legionaires
placed a wreath in front of the Union
Electric Bldg., site of the old Shubert-Jefferson
Theatre, in which the Legion was
founded in 1919. Many prominent religious
and civic figm-es, including Gov. Phil M.
Donnelly, Mayor Kaufmami, National Legion
Comimander James F. O'Neill and Archbishop
Joseph E. Ritter, head of the local archdiocese,
attended the opening of the film.
Chicago Bans 'Killer Dill';
New Censor Chief Named
CHICAGO—The Chicago police department
motion picture censor board looked at 125
pictures last month, made 34 cuts, rejected
Screen Guild's "Killer Dill" and classified
for "adults only" Paramount's "Hatter's
Castle," U-I's "Dear Murderer," Superfilms'
"Cavalleria Rusticanna," Franklin's "The
Postmaster's Daughter," and Azteca's "The
Other." Capt. Timothy Lyne, head of the
censor board the last five years, has been
given another assignment and is replaced
by Capt, Harry Pulmer,
New Look for Cort
DECATUR, ILL.—A new front is being put
on the Cort Theatre here. The old pressed
wood facade is being replaced with multicolored
structural glass and the boxoffice is
being moved from the center to one side of
the entrance. There also will be a new attraction
board in the marquee. A second set
of doors inside the lobby is being removed and
the lobby redecorated with walls of knotty
pine.
Reg. U. S, Pat. Off.
ATTENDANCE BOOSTER
For Information, Write, Wire or Phone
FOTO-PAY-DAY, INC.
161 W. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee 3, Wis.
66 BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

•,s
-
RCA
announce
\o
o\
appointment
as
• • ••)
k%%%
,w*
%«
Fta
Te-'ao-V
Indianapolis
COMPANY. 4«
.«r SUPPLY ^^^
S,,eet. ^^^-7° Tv e-ln Theatre Ej-J-^^ns. RCA Tube-
Svslems. RCA Dn g^^^^^.te S«
^^t^ Motor
iectors. Brer^kert Arc ^^^^.j.^,„ S^et Lining- Inter
proua
the
^„ te
^VPe -^ ^^SIwU
carpets, Gordos
/ecti^ons.
^^^^f
Generators, Moh ^.^^^^^^e ^^^^.^^^ theatre.
national Chaxrs, ^ j^,^, everything io^ th«
Rectiiier Bulbs • • •
T
THEATRE EQUIRMEMT
RADIO CORRORATiON of AMERICA
EMOIMEERIMO PRODUCTS DIVISION. CAMDEN. M.J.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
66-A

^r
-^ifMMaw^aww*^*
CLASSIFIED AOS
Get It Done
Quick Response—Low Cost!
BOXOFFICE readers offer a tremendous
market for the advertiser. Reach them with
your message in the industry magazine that
really gets results.
4 Insertions for the Price of 3
8fi-B BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

. . . Gladys
. . . Eddie
. . Alberta
—
. . The
ir-
Antidiscrimination
Proposal in St. Louis
ST. LOUTS—A bill proposing to make it a
misdemeanor for any attempt at segregation
or discrimination according to race, color,
creed or nationally in various public places,
including motion picture theatres, has been
introduced in the board of aldermen by Alderman
Sidney R. Redmond, Negro.
The measui'e carries provision for fines
from $25 to $500. The bill also would pernut
the posting of signs advertising such segregation
or discrimination in public places. The
proposed ordinance would place the board of
aldermen on record as declaring "the practice
of exclusion, segregation and discrimination
in the use, operation and enjoyment of public
places and accommodations against any
of the resident of the city or those coming
within its boimdaries because of race, religion,
creed, color or natural origin are in derogation
of the fundamental civil rights of the
individuals involved."
Redmond said he was requested to introduce
the bill by various organizations including
the National Ass'n for the Advancement
of Colored People, the Mound City Bar Ass'n.
and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance.
Empire Is Redecorated
CHRISMAN, ILL. — The Empire, a 300-
seater owned by George Barber of Villa Grove,
111., and managed and operated by Mr. and
Mrs. Garland "Peck" Keith, reopened April
22 after being dark for ten days. During that
period it rmderwent remodeling and redecorating.
New American seats, a larger
screen, modern air conditioning and new
aisle and side lights have been installed.
Burglars Get $43 in Harvey, 111.
HARVEY, ILL.—Manager Walter Grometer
reported to police that bm-glars had ransacked
his office and ripped open the safe at
the Harvey Theatre, making off with $4S.61
in cash.
MADISON
. . .
ly/fanager Hugh Flannery of the Orpheum
Theatre here and Mrs. Flannery left May
1 for a month's vacation trip to Florida
A film titled "Better Schools for Rural Wisconsin"
will be released soon by the University
of Wisconsin.
John McKay, formerly with Fox Wisconsin
in Milwaukee, has been named manager of
the Eastwood here. He succeeds H. L.
Mincheski ... A stenographer in the state industrial
commission won a six-month pass
to the Orpheum in that theatre's baby-sitter
contest.
The Commercial club at Monticello will
sponsor free motion pictm-es this summer.
A group of Monticello civic and business
leaders are also reported considering raising
a fund for a new theatre in that city . . .
Mayor Verne Knoll of Beaver Dam has invited
actor Fred MacMurray to visit his home
city this summer to help dedicate a new
carillon organ bought for use at the city park.
The organ is similar to the one used in Mac-
Murray's picture, "Miracle of the Bells."
NDIANAPOLIS
Dussell Bleeke, office manager and head
booker at Republic, was home suffering
from an abscess in his ear several days last
week . . . Charles Acton, salesman for Republic,
is spending his spare moments buying
furniture and getting his newly acquired
home arranged . Wells of the Na-
vacation-
tional Screen Service office staff is
ing in Ai-izona. Betty Bradgon has been
added to the NSS filing staff.
Fred Dolle of the Fourth Avenue Amusement
Co., Louisville, was here several days
Edwin Brauer, Republic
on business . . .
manager, has gone to the New 'Vork office
Daupert is the new typist at
. . Jack Norris has taken over the
RKO .
Rialto Theatre in Walkerton, Ind.
Milton Krueger, UA salesman, and Jack
Benson, assistant booker at U-I, were overnight
guests of Bob Harned at his drive-in
. . Mrs. Jules Goldman,
in Louisville the night before the race at
Churchill Downs .
wife of the Warner office manager, has returned
to the city after spending six weeks
with her father, seriously ill at his home
in New York.
Bob McCraven jr., son of the late salesman
for Warner Bros., was here winding
up his father's estate . . Brownstown, Ind.,
.
had a rabies scare and all dogs in the town
were ordered vaccinated . . Eugene Steurle,
.
operator of the East Broadway, Louisville,
has renovated his theatre and now will start
the family garden plot . . . Joe and William
Riese of the Riese circuit, Louisville,
have supervised the renovating and the installation
of new air conditioning in the Ideal
Theatre.
Robert and Mrs. Wayne, who operate the
Orpheum in Louisville, entertained their
many out-of-town guests during the Kentucky
Derby. Earl Bell has acquired the Avalon
here. Bell also operates the Howard in
west Indianapolis . . . Mrs. Harvey Orr, who
operates the Speedway Theatre, Speedway
City, has returned to her post after a tenday
rest . . . C. E. South, operator of the
Dream Theatre here, reports considerable
activity in his community by parents who desire
to secure more pictures for children's
matinees.
Verne Jenkins acquired the Monroe at Monroe
City . . . Mrs. Mary May, mother of Gilbert
May, operator of the Dream, Corydon,
Ind., is visiting her daughter in California
Ornstein, who operates theatres
in Milltown and Marengo, Ind., and in Brandenburg,
Ky., has disposed his interest in
the frozen locker btisiness and will devote
THE BETTER TO SERVE YOU
WE HAVE MOVED TO
LARGER QUARTERS
—New Address
1220 So. Michigan Ave.
Phones WEBster 44G6-67
CHICAGO 5, ILL.
MIDWEST POSTER
EXCHANGE
iOur Service Advertises)
all his attention to his amusement business
George T. Landis, 20th-Fox manager,
. . .
visited the home office in New York.
Jerry Weiss, formerly living in Chicago, has
joined the Eagle Lion sales staff. He will
visit exhibitors in the northern territory . . .
Richard "Dick" Stevens of the west coast
office of Warner Bros., replaces Ira Epstein
as publicity director in the Indianapolis area.
Epstein goes to New York City for the company.
George W. Lindsay is building a 218-seat
theatre in Brownsville, Ky. The house will be
called the Lindsay . Mary-Jane Theatre
in Caneyville, Ky., built by Allen Bros.,
will hold its formal opening the last week
in May.
C. C. Sims, Loretta, Ky., is building a new
drive-in theatre at Lebanon, Ky . . . Paul
Sanders, operator of the Alhambra Theatre,
Campbellsville, Ky., has returned after visiting
his daughter in the east . . . Mannie
Marcus, head of the Marcus Enterprises, operators
in Ohio and Indiana, visited his theatres
in Cincinnati and Dayton.
Renovated Lincoln Opens
Again in Charleston, 111.
CHARLESTON, ILL.—The Lincoln Theatre,
a unit of the Charleston Theatre Co.,
which also owns the Will Rogers here, has
been playing to nice business since its grand
reopening April 25.
While the theatre was closed, the owners,
headed by Ed Clark, spent some $50,000 on
improvements. Air conditioning was installed;
the ticket window was moved forward to the
center of the doorway: new rubber tile floor
was laid in the lobby which was redecorated;
concrete flooring was laid in the balcony,
where seats were rearranged, and indirect
lighting, new automatically controlled curtains
and a new screen were installed.
Poplar Bluff Job Resumed
By I. W. Rodgers Circuit
POPLAR BLUFF, MO.—Work was resiuned
on the de luxe theatre being built
here by the Rodgers circuit of Cairo, 111.,
following the lifting of restrictions on theatre
construction. W. M. Griffin, spokesman for
the circuit, said the project probably would
take a year to complete. The house will be a
monument to I. W. Rodgers, founder of the
circuit, whose first theatre was the Criterion
in Poplar Bluff.
COMPLETE
EQUIPMENT
forTHEATRES and DRIVE-INS
• IMMEDIATE DELIVERY
• LOWEST PRICES
24-HOUR PROJECTION AND SOUND
SERVICE
Write for free literature
Theatre Equipment Co.
AL BOUDOURIS, Manager
109 Michigan St., Toledo 2, Ohio
ADams 8511
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15. 1948
67

. . Sam
. . H.
spotted
CHICAGO
Jesse Lasky, producer of "The Miracle of the
Bells," will be honored at a dinner in the
Drake hotel May 24, the night before the
picture opens at the RKO Palace with gala
festivities. Frank Sinatra and other members
of the cast also will be on hand. Pi-oceeds
of the opening performance will go to
the American Cancer society . . . Brief visitors
in town were Pat O'Brien and his wife
who passed through en route to St. Louis
for the premiere of "Fighting Father Dunne."
Balaban & Katz, which has cradled
many
Hollywood luminaries, can now boast of a
producer in its ranks. He is Nathaniel Finston,
former musical director of Chicago
and Tivoli theatres. Finston is producer of
Allied Artists' "Song of My Heart," which
opened at the B&K Apollo May 14.
Milton Berle, comedian cun-ently appearing
on the stage at the Oriental, headed a
14-hour marathon broadcast last week over
WIND for the Chicago Heart Ass'n. The
show continued without interruption from
1:25 p. m. Wednesday until 3:35 a. m. Thursday.
Over $31,000 in contributions was received
and the money will be used to support
the LaRabida Sanitariiun in Jackson
Park. More than a dozen stars assisted Berle
including Jimmy Stewart, Tony Martin and
Willie Shore. Art Stegall, manager of the
Oriental, and Norm Kassel, Essaness press
agent, were on the job, too.
"Gentleman's Agreement" bowed out of
the Apollo after a run of 26 weeks, at top
admission of $1.25. It opened at 11 neighborhood
houses at regular admission prices
over the weekend . . . B&K personnel shivered
over their typewriters the other day.
There was no heat in the building for the
reason the engineer failed to show up.
Called by phone at his home the engineer
explained it was so chilly he decided to stay
home.
Jane Powell, MGM's cute canary, will follow
her picture to town. The lass, who does
right well for herself in "Three Daring
Daughters," now at the United Ai-tists, will
do personal appearances at the State-Lake
beginning May 28.
Harold Paul, recently manager of the Star
& Garter Theatre and husband of Inez Paul,
cashier at the Lake Theatre, died last weekend.
He had been ill for some time . .
5£CURITY|
BUY BONDS TODAY!
Irving Mandel, Monogram franchise holder,
has returned from Miami, fully recovered
from his auto injury . . . Milt Officer, long
a manager of various B&K theatres and recently
at the United Artists, is now manager
of the Lakeside Theatre on the north side
. . . Joseph Arlia, former assistant at the
Tivoli, is now at the UA.
Ed Haliday, Terminal operator since the
early days of vaudeville, is back on the job
. . . Jerry Winsberg,
after several months in Phoenix, Ariz., and is
feeling okay Paradise
manager, greeted a new daughter, his second,
at Michael Reese hospital recently, who was
named Julie Beth . . . Wayne Chance, for
many years on the staffs of the Granada
and Pantheon theatres, was killed in a crash
with naval air
force . . . Curtis Williams of the B&K poster
department greeted son David at the Provident
recently while on a flight
hospital last
weekend.
They're calling: Bill Eddy, director of television
station WBPCB, "Dream Boy" since the
Times published the story and picture spread
reporting the dream Eddy had that his private
plane was in need of repair. Heeding
his dream, Eddy checked his plane and
found a wing rotted in the same section he
had dreamed it to be . Horwitz, local
Selznlck manager, has returned from New
York conferences . . . Walter Green, Oscar
Oldknow and John Servies of the National
Theatre Supply Co. have returned here from
New York headquarters
. A. Spanuth,
director and general manager of Chicago
Film Studios, producers of "The Woman
Speaks," is now handling the distribution of
the Purdue university film, "One Brick
Higher," based on the history of this famous
school . . . J. E. Tottenhoff, B. C. Dorner and
V. Hallenberg have formed the Television
Productions, Inc., and Sport Television Productions,
Inc.
Len Utecht, manager of the Lake Theatre
in Oak Park, reports he had two successful
Saturday morning shows for youngsters.
Cooperation of PTA groups helped make
them a big success. The Oak Park paper.
Oak Leaves, helped publicize the shows . .
A role in a Hollywood motion picture is the
next activity for Joyce Thoresen. farm girl
from Lockport, 111., who recently was chosen
"Photo Girl of '48" by the Chicago Pi-ess
Photographers Ass'n. She left last week for
UA studios in Hollywood to appear in "My
Dear Secretary," a Cardinal Productions
picture starring Laraine Day and Keenan
Wynn
. . . L. B. Mayer was a stopover at
local MGM exchange en route back to Hollywood.
Birthday greetings to 'Vi Dane, secretary
to Irv Mack of Filmack ... It will be wedding
bells for Marion Tarant of Filmack
very soon. She will wed Jerome Somers . . .
Ed Masters, Len Utecht and Bill Koch, managers
of various Essaness houses in the Oak
Park area, awarded free ducats to winners
in a recent poster contest sponsored by a
women's guild. Children made posters on
"Movie Pests." Tlie contest was held in west
suburban schools and drew much attention
. . . Calvin Wellauer, formerly with Tri-
States in Omaha, has been added to the Uptown
Theatre staff.
Sam Lesner, assistant at the Tower Theatre,
has been appointed Southside director
of the B&K Employes club due to the transfer
of Joseph Arlia downtown to UA .
"Shoe-Shine," which had several banner
weeks at Abe Teitel's World-Playhouse, is
having an exclusive Evanston showing at the
Stadium Theatre. It also is doing well at
Bernie Malits' Midtown Theatre on the
south side.
Whiteway Sign Service reports many theatre
installations going into work at this
time. Among the largest jobs are the Paradise
Theatre, which will have a new vertical
sign and marquee; LaGrange Theatre, which
is getting an entire new canopy, and the
southside Gayety Theatre is getting a new
marquee and neon attraction signs . . . The
Young Moderns, whose pet charity is the La-
Rabida Jackson Park sanitarium, will have
a spring cocktail dance in the 'Variety Club
rooms Friday, May 21, starting at 6 p. m.
Mrs. James A. Conner is chairman.
Mike Yahr, who for many years has been
connected with RCA and has recently been
top man of Chicago Theatre Supply, has been
appointed by RCA to the post of district
manager in the theatre equipment section
. . . The Abbott Theatre Equipment Co. of
Chicago, which recently announced the purchase
of the Chicago Theatre Supply and the
Stanley Theatre Supply Co., has moved the
entire stock from both of these stores to the
Abbott location . . . "The Naked City" bowed
in very big over the weekend at the RKO
Palace and is running late shows every night
until 5 a. m. and serving free coffee and
doughnuts from midnight to 5 a. m. . . ,
"Berlin
Express" opened at the Palace May 12
and "Tlie Miracle of the Bells" bows in with
a benefit premiere May 25.
Babe Kuth stopped off en route to Holly-
'vood, where his life stoi-y is being filmed
by Monogram. He met friends, showmen and
the press at a party in the Blackstone. Roy
Del Ruth and Joe Kaufman, a former B&Ker,
are producers of "The Babe Ruth Story" . . .
Irv Kupcinet had in his column that B&K
will switch its stage shows from the State-
Lake back to the Chicago.
Joe Berenson of National Theatre Advertisers
retui-ned from a six-week Florida vacation
and amiomiced he will enlarge his local
quarters . . . Double feature listed on a theatre
marquee i
by Hank Porter): "The
Mating of Millie" "This Time for Keeps" . . .
Sally Gold. Metro booker, was married April
25 at Crown Point to Louis Scharff. She will
continue with Metro ... Si Greiver is booking
the new drive-in theatre at Griffiths,
Ind.. owned and operated by Phil Smith.
Delft Circuit Takes Over
Door in Sturgeon Bay
STURGEON BAY, WIS.—The Door Theatre
here now is under the banner of the
Delft Theatres of Marquette, Mich. The circuit
now operates 21 theatres.
Local 164 Elects
MILWAUKEE—Officers of the lATSE projectionists
local 164 elected at the recent
meeting were: President, Glenn C. Kalkhoff;
business manager. Otto A. Ti-ampe; vicepresident,
Walter Behr; recording secretary,
Robert Lucht; treasurer, George Wittman.
Executive board members: George Brader,
Norman Habersat, Charles Beggs and John
Black. Delegates to lATSE convention:
Trampe, Kalkhoff and Behr. Delegates to
Wisconsin State Federation of Labor: Kalkhoff
and Trampe.
.
68
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948
4

. . . Skouras
. . Skouras
Mrs. Eckardt Ciied
By Catholic Vets
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WIS.—The Catholic
Action award has been presented by the
Catholic War Veterans of Wisconsin to
Henrietta Eckardt, operator of the Wisconsin
and Palace theatres here. She was one of
eight people in the state so honored.
The award was made to Mrs. Eclcardt "in
recognition of leadership m the advancement
of religious and civic interests" in the state
and as "an aclcnowledgment of good will in
furthering the work of this organization."
Mrs. Eckardt has made the facilities of her
Wisconsin Theatre available to the newly
organized St. Mary's parish and also has assisted
in promoting its work. The parish uses
the theatre for services and other chm-ch
activities every Sunday. Mrs. Eckardt also
donated national and organizational colors
to the Wisconsin Rapids post of the Catholic
War Veterans.
Theatres Sign for Service
By Altec Sound Men
CHICAGO—Altec Service has signed sound
servicing agreements with the following: Illinois—City
censor. 152 Theatre, Elno, Avalon,
Alvin and Hub in Chicago: New Era in
Harvey, Gaty in East St. Louis, Deerpath in
Lake Forest, Lyons in Lyons and Palace in
Cambridge. Wisconsin— Superior in Superior,
Hollywood in Wausau, Lake in Winnecomie,
Lyric in Denmark, De Pere in De Pere, State
in Waupaca, Rex in Beloit, Omro in Orm-o
and Nicolet in West E>e Pere. Indiana—Ritz
in Lowell and Hebron in Hebron.
Deer Speaks in Milwaukee
MILWAUKEE—Dr. Irvin E. Deer, field representative
of the Motion Picture Ass'n of
America, spoke at a meeting of the Milwaukee
County Better Films council at the YMCA
last week. Current films that have been
rated as follows by the council's preview
committee: Family, "The Prince of Thieves,"
"The Wreck of the Hesperus," "My Dog
Rusty," "Sitting Pi-etty" and "The Big City."
Adults and young people: "Gentleman's
Agreement," "The Tender Years," "The Challenge,"
"To the Ends of the Earth," "State of
the Union," "Homecoming" and "The Search."
Mature: "The Bride Goes Wild," "B. F.'s
Daughter" and "Adventures of Silverado."
Christy Kalafat Named
LANSING, ILL.—Management of the Kalafat
Bros. Lans Theatre here has been taken
over by Christy Kalafat. For the past year
he has been assisting his father, A. C. Kalafat,
in operation of the Gala Theatre in Garret,
Ind., and attending International Business
college in Fort Wayne.
Fete Earl Mitchells
MARION. ILL.—Employes of the Orpheum
and Plaza tlieatres, m:it of the Fox Midwest
circuit, gave a farewell dinner recently at
the Castellano cafe for Mr. and Mrs. Earl
Mitchell, w'ho have moved to Christopher,
111., where Mitchell has assumed his new
duties as manager of the circuit's Globe Theatre.
He was presented a fine leather portfolio.
Prentice Hampton Opens
New Glasford, 111., Theatre
GLASFORD, ILL.—The new Glasford Theatre
has been opened here by Prentice
Hampton in a building that was made over
from a hatchery. Work of remodeling the
building has been in progress since the first
of the year. The building was almost completely
made over, having been given a new
floor, ceiling, front and one sidewall. Hampton
has set a price scale of 35 cents for
adults and 14 cents for children, the same as
prevailed at the old Glasford Theatre, which
was taken over for other purposes last fall.
SPRINGFIELD
jWlaurice N. Wolf of Boston, public relations
representative of MGM, .spoke at
a local Optimist club dinner meeting at the
Abraham Lincoln hotel April 28. Springfield
theatremen were guests of Mort Berman,
local Great States manager and president of
the Springfield Theatre Ass'n, at the meeting.
The Orpheum is getting a new vertical, the
old one has been up for 21 years and is beginning
to show its age . . . Work got under
way last week on the drive-in in Decatur.
Bad weather had been holding up the project.
R. C. Carney Sells Belle
BELLE, MO.—The Belle Theatre has been
purchased from R. C. Carney, RoUa circuit
operator, by Ony W. Wallace, a former Belle
resident who has been living on the west coast
for ten years. The Belle was built from an
old garage building seven years ago.
Hartford Theatre Opens
HARTFORD CITY, IND.—The new Hartford
Theatre opened here May 6. It is a 916-
seat theatre, accommodating 598 on the main
floor and 318 in the balcony. Opening picture
was "Red Stallion."
From the BOXOFFICE Files
« • •
(Twenty Years Ago)
lyruSICIANS employed by the St. Louis
Municipal Opera Ass'n have demanded
an increase of $10 a week on the current
$65-a-week salaries paid.
The increase would
amount to $6,000 annually. The association
cleared $2,334.57 last year.
* * *
A patron of the St. Louis Theatre filed
a suit for $25,000 damages against Tom Mix.
She claims her right eye was Injured by a
fragment of bullet while watching Mix's act
at the theatre . A stock was sold
at $41.75 recently, compared with $40 a year
ago.
* * *
Another di-ive to close the theatres in
Springfield, Mo., is under way. Paul Bennett,
singing evangelist, has filed complaints
against six local motion picture operators . . .
Mason Peters, former newspaperman, has
been named business manager of the Garden
Theatre on Olive street in St. Louis county
Bros. Enterprise in St. Louis
showed a net profit for the first quarter of
$62,000.
St. Louis Drive-ins Vie
For Family Patronage
ST. LOUIS—The Battle for the Babies being
waged by drive-in theatres in tliis area
is a clue to the ozoners' attempts at getting
family patronage in a type of theatre which
before the war didn't go out of its way for
pny particular type of clientele.
The latest move in the offensive is the unprecedented
offer of free pony rides being
advertised by the Drive-In Theatre on the
Manchester road, a 500-car layout owned by
the Midwest Drive-In Theatres Corp., controlled
by Phil Smith of Boston.
Although the drive-in advertising copy proclaims
it is the only theatre in the world with
a playground, the 66 Park-In Theatre also
claims to possess a similar facility. Its advertising
copy has so advised patrons since
Fred Wehrenberg opened the ozoner a few
weeks ago.
Local theatremen long have known the
drawing value of a theatre where their children
will receive proper and supervised care.
The drive-in theatre, with its' privacy in the
family automobile, its bottle warmers and its
pal playgrounds hold out great advantages
to parents with small children. The pony
rides are another step in this same direction.
900-Seater Will Be Built
By Flora Amusements
FLORA, ILL.—The Flora Amusement Co.,
headed by J. E., B. V. and Larry Spalding,
announced that bids will be taken at an early
date for construction here of a 900-seat theatre.
The building will be 62 feet wide and
100 feet deep and will have a front of tile and
glass blocks. Space for offices or small shops
will be provided in wings on either side of the
entrance. The company has not yet chosen
a name for the theatre, nor has it announced
the future policy for the 900-seat Florine
Theatre and the 360-seat Roxy.
Release Snakes in Atlas
MILWAUKEE—Two boys created a few
moments of excitement last week by turning
loose some live snakes in the Atlas Theatre.
It wasn't long before the entire house was
empty of patrons. Ushers with flashlights
policed the house and Manager Clarence
Hackbarth reported things under control in
short order.
Remodel Sullivan House
SULLIVAN, ILL.—The 600-seat Grand Theatre,
owned by Lee Norton, has been remodeled
and modernized. New balcony stairways
have been built on both sides of the
lobby, eliminating the necessity for balcony
patrons to pass through the main auditorium,
and rest rooms have been installed on both
sides of the lobby.
Mat Scheidler Back in Affiliated
INDIANAPOLIS—Mat Scheidler. operator
of the Hartford, Orpheum and Jefferson in
Hartford City and the Main at Dimkirk, has
returned to the fold of Affiliated Theatres
for buying and booking service. The announcement
was made by Earl Herndon of
Affiliated.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 69

. . . Louis
. . Tom
. . Nat
. .
. . Hildegarde
. . Sonny
I !
MILWAUKEE
. . .
. . Lew
^harles Winninger and Frederic March, Hollywood
actors from Wisconsin, will make
Centennial appearances this summer at State
Fair park Tom Regan, recently discharged
from the marines, has been made
assistant manager at the Wisconsin .
Herman, U-I manager, reports invitations
will soon go out for the official opening of
exchange building June 1 . .
the new
Buffington, secretary to Lou Elman,
Ann
RKO
.
manager, left for an extended Canadian vacation.
Don VVeisfeldt, son of former Riverside
manager, is managing the State . . . Nick
Meuren, MGM shipper, will bowl in the state
tourney in Madison as well as the national
in Detroit.
Exhibitors booking on the Row-: Barney
Sherman, Racine: Walter Baier, Fort Atkinson:
H. H. Otto, Clinton: George Compton,
Wabeno; Larry Kelley, Cudahy; Bob Guiterman
and Nick Johnson, Manitowoc; W. C.
Fischer, Campbellsport; James Boden and
James Juell, South Milwaukee; Billy Herce,
Ed Johnson, Sid Margoles and Joe Malits,
Milwaukee; Sig Goldberg, Wausau, and Nick
Berg, Sheboygan.
"The Outlaw" returned to the Towne and
came through with outstanding business.
Last time it played the Towne the city fathers
had it pulled by thi-eatening to revoke the
Towne's license ... Ed Friedwald, Alhambra
manager, had a heart ailment and was
away from his chores for two weeks. Ray
Krasno, assistant, took over in his absence
. . . Ralph Maw', MGM district manager, was
in from Minneapolis for a huddle with John
G. Kemptgen, local manager . . . Bill Youngs,
SRO manager, was on a jaunt through the
Marie Schneider, Towne cashier,
territory . . .
announced her
engagement.
R. Baker, RKO salesman, says he nearly
froze while golfing at Port Washington over
the weekend . . . Charley Hacker, Standard
Theatres district manager, drove from Waukesha
to Milwaukee last week in 20 minutes
Orlove, MGM exploiteer, is back
from the Dakotas
John Matis, former Alhambra manager,
recently was named district manager for
Goldberg theatres in Omaha . . . Walter
Blaney, RKO office manager, uses his station
wagon to commute daily between Bark
Lake and the exchange.
. . Remodeling
.
. . .
Max Markowltz, Plaza manager, was down
Angelo Provinzano, former
with a cold . . .
Fox Wisconsin staffer, is busy these d.-.ys
at the Alamo and Mozart. Provinzano and
Mike Chesnick run the two houses .
of the Comet is moving along Harry Kohler, new manager of the Wisconsin
hotel, is thinking of installing 16mm in
the Circus room . Marcus, Warner
manager, called on exhibitors out of town
Roy Pierce, Riverside manager, is back
from a
month on the west coast.
Chet Miller, Palace assistant manager, is
limiting his daily coffee ration to 14 cups
. . . Jules Serkovich, Columbia exploiteer, was
thumping his tubs in the territory on "Tlie
Mating of Millie" and "The Lady From
Shanghai" . Cornfield, Palace manager,
worked up a unique ad on "The Bride
Goes Wild." His ads carried photographs of
patrons attending the preview.
Show business here is due for a hypo this
summer. More conventions are scheduled
Such Popularity
Must Be Deserved!
Advertisers know the pulling power
of BOXOFFICE classified ads.
They
keep coming back. There's a tremendous
market in
a reader audience
of over 23,000 subscribers.
Use BOXOFFICE Classified
Ads for Quick Results
at Low Cost
than in any previous year . . . Mike CoUa,
National Screen shipper, is a busy man these
days, what with a wedding coming up early
in July .
McDonald, Wamer manager,
is gaining weight and considering going
in for golf again. Did you know that
Sonny pounded drums for name bands in
earlier years?
John G. Kemptgen, MGM resident manager,
contacted exhibitors around the territory
. . . Did you notice the resemblance between
that radio program director in "State
of the Union" and Bill Ainsworth, Allied
president?
Johnny Mednikow, National Screen manager,
was in St. Louis briefly . . . Alvin Gross,
MGM office manager, is still searching for an
abode . . . Benny Benjamin, Screen Guild
manager, and R. Baker, RKO salesman,
m.atched score cards following a bit of golf
and it looks like they'll play a match game
soon . Albrecht, MGM booker,
who began plajing golf last year, is chasing
the white pellet with renewed vigor this year.
George Pal Script Idea
To Cut Production Costs
From Western Edition
HOLLYWOOD—Latest in devices to slash
production costs is the "audio-visual" screenplay
developed by George Pal and being
utilized in advance of actual shooting on
"The Adventures of Tom Thumb," live actionanimation
feature which he is preparing for
United Artists release.
Pal's "audio-visual" gadget takes the form
of a film outline featuring narration, preliminary
set sketches and musical development,
and is used as a blueprint to iron out
story kinks, over-footage and other budgetraising
problems.
Prices Rise in Wabash
WABASH, IND.—A new price schedule for
the Colonial Theatre was announced by T. J.
Cleary, manager, as the house reopened after
being remodeled. Sunday through Thursday
nights the price now is 44 cents, the same as
at the Eagles Theatre. Matinees Monday
through Thursday the price is 35 cents. On
Sunday the matinee price is 44 cents. Prices
on Friday and Saturday are 25 cents afternoons
and 30 cents nights. Children's admissions
in all instances are unchanged.
Ed Wheeler Joins Sack
DALLAS—Ed A. Wheeler has been appointed
special sales representative for Sack
Amusement Enterprises for the exchange territories
of Cincinnati, Cleveland, Indianapolis,
St. Louis and Pittsburgh. Wheeler,
former Astor franchise holder in Cincinnati,
has disposed of his exchange holdings, and
will make his headquarters in Cincinnati,
from which base he will direct sales and
bookings.
SRO Purchases 'The Long Walk'
David O. Selznick has purchased a forthcoming
novel by Bet.sey Barton, "Tlie Long
Walk," a story told in a single day.
To Film Medical Bunko Artists
William Moss will make a film for Eagle
Lion concerning medical bunko, tentatively
titled "Medical Hucksters."
70 BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

. . H.
. . Another
—
——
—
—
DES MOINES Bells' Rings Loudly MINNEAPOLIS
•Two former lowans got together on the
Paramount lot the other day. They are
Katlrleen Strong, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Al Strong, and Macdonald Carey. They met
on the set of Paramount's "The Great Gatsby."
Miss Strong recently was signed to a
Paramount contract and is attending the
studio school.
New spring cushion leather seats have been
installed in the Mills Theatre, Tama. The
new seats were purchased, however, for the
. . .
new theatre which W. W. Mansfield plans
for Tama in the near futui'e. When the house
is built, Mansfield says, the cushions will be
taken out and put in the new theatre
Lieut. Col. and Mrs. B. B. Manchester III
(she's the former Pat Crosland of Warners
and Universal! were visitors.
Ilene Perin, Paramount, is on vacation at
her home in Baxter . M. Richey, public
relations man from New York, was a visitor
at MGM . . . Rumors are flying that Leatha
Morrow of RKO will be a bride soon . . . The
Sol Yeagers are in the midst of redecorating
their home. We understand the RKO
salesman gets very tired sitting and advising
his wife what to do next! . busy
RKO salesman is Raymond McKittrick who
has just finished building a very elaborate
fence arotmd his home.
Bob Newman, NSS office manager, is being
married May 15 in Kii-ksville, Mo., to
Irene Blankenhorn, who expects to continue
her work as a nurse in Des Moines following
a week's honeymoon in Kansas City . . . Barney
Brotman of the Quad Cities was a visitor
on the Row and attended AITO convention
. . . E. G. Closson, Lamona exhibitor, was in
the city . . . Moms Relder, Universal salesman,
is back on the road after a week's illness.
Marie Frye, general manager of the confection
department for Tii and Central
States, was a very popular gal at the AITO
convention here last Monday and Tuesday.
Marie had arranged with candy wholesalers
to have an attractive bar in the meeting
rooms, with free candy, gum and popcorn for
aU convention delegates. A welcome innovation!
Drive-In at Parsons, Kas..
Opened by Lewis Stein
PARSONS. KAS.—Lewis Stein, formerly of
Spearville, opened his 500-car drive-in on
highway 160 May 6 with "Home in Indiana"
as the opening feature. Admissions are 50
cents for adults, 14 cents for children. The
airer employs RCA projection lamps, sound
and speakers. Screen size is 40x50 feet.
Attending the opening from Filmrow in
Kansas City were L. J. Kimbriel of Missouri
Theatre Supply; Arthur deStefano, National
Theatre Supply; Paul Connett, RCA Service
Co.; Guy Bradford, United Artists; Mr. and
Mrs. Ned Busher, NTS, and Charles Knickerbocker,
20th-Fox.
Drive-In for St. Cloud
ST. CLOUD. MINN.—A drive-in will be
erected here by J. A. Cremisino and H. E.
Clark.
In Des Moines Week
DES MOINES—"The Miracle of
the Bells"
at the Orpheum topped boxoffice receipts last
week. It was on a double bill with "Adventures
in Silverado." "The Iron Cm-tain" at
the Des Moines did just normal business.
(Average Is 100)
Des Moines—The Iron Curtain (20th-Fox) 100
Orpheum—The Miracle of the Bella (RKO); Adventures
in Silverado (Col) 150
Paramount Drums Along the Mohawk (20th-Fox);
The Mark of Zorro (20th-Fox), reissues 95
"Bells' Rings, "Clock' Ticks
In Minneapolis Debut
MINNEAPOLIS—"The Miracle of the Bells"
and "The Big Clock" cornered much of the
trade last week. They were the important
newcomers and both came through strongly.
Holdovers were "The Naked City," in its third
week, and "State of the Union," "Street
Corner" and "The Sign of the Ram," in their
second.
Asler—Border G-Man (RKO); Our Relations
(Indie), reissue - - 90
Century—The Tender Years (20th-Fox) - 60
Gopher Broadway (FC); Flame oi New Orleans
(FC), reissues 90
Lvceum Street Corner (McCall), 2nd wk _ 125
Lyric—The Sign of the Ram (Co!), 2nd d. t. wk 90
Radio City—State of the Union (MGM), 2nd wk 125
RKO Orpheum—The Miracle of the Bells (UA) 140
RKO Pan—The Naked City (U-I), 3rd wk...._ 110
Stole-The Big Clock (Para) _...135
World—Lost Moment (U-1) 100
"State of Union' Is Healthy
In Sub-Par Omaha Week
OMAHA—Strikes and heavy outside competition
held back theatre receipts here.
Omaha had considerable rain during the
week. "State of the Union" at the Orpheum
was the big draw.
Omaha My Girl Tisa (WB); Fugitive From
a Chain Gang (WB), reissue 90
Paramount—State of the Union (MGM) 120
Orpheum Panhandle (Mono) 95
RKO Brandeis—Winter Meeting (WB); Devil Ship
(Col) _ 90
State—If Winter Comes (MGM); The Arnelo Affair
(MGM)
U5
Two Blondes and a Redhead (Col), 2nd
run; The Body Snatcher (RKO), reissue; split
v/ith Black Hills (EL); California (Para), reissue 95
Town
"Miracle of the Bells' Gets
Second Kansas City Week
KANSAS CITY—"The Miracle of the Bells"
was the local topper and was held over for a
second week at the Orpheum. "State of the
Union" at the Midland scored an encouraging
135 in its second week at the Loew's
showcase.
Esquire The Naked City (20th-Fox), moveover 90
Midland—State of the Union (MGM), 2nd wk 135
Orpheum—The Miracle of the Bells (RKO);
Western Heritage (RKO) 140
Paramount
The Woman in White (Para) 70
Roxy—Women in the Night (FC); For You I Die
(FC) 105
Tower, UptowTi, Fairway Casbah (U-I) 65
To Open Winona House
WINONA, KAS.—Ed Smith, a newcomer to
show business, plans to open his new 400-
seat theatre here within the next few days.
Lenox State Has Birthda-y
LENOX, IOWA—The State celebrated Its
ninth anniversary May 5. The house first
opened its doors on May 5, 1939. Manager
Prank Shipley said the day was marked by
completion of a redecoration program which
included a new carpet.
lyronogram has put its first picture in Radio
City, the territory's top theatre, "Smart
Woman," being run in conjunction with a
stage show headed by Sammy Kaye's band.
Morrie Steinman, local manager who has his
exchange at the top in the company's current
sales drive, reports widespread bookings
for the Academy award winning short,
"Climbing the Matterhorn." It recently
played the RKO-Pan here.
. . .
Exhibitors on Filmrow: Ray Blakeslee,
Medford, Wis.; Harry Rolbiecki, Arcadia,
Wis., and Prank Kinas, Thorp, Wis.
Home Theatres buying and booking has reelected
James Rendgaard, Staples, Minn.,
president; George Miner, Rice Lake, Wis.,
and Charles Clossen. Anoka, Minn., first and
second vice-presidents, and Frank Mantzke.
Minneapolis, secretary and treasurer. It
voted to have Northwest Theatres Service,
of Which Mantzke is president, to continue
to do its buying and booking.
Herb Greenblatt, RKO district manager,
was a visitor . . .
Condolences to Joe Loeffler.
Republic manager, whose 65-year-old
mother died in Cleveland . . . W. C. Gehring.
20th-Fox assistant sales manager; Jack
Lorenz. division manager, and Clarence Hill,
in charge of exchange operations, were here
on a routine visit.
. . .
"Duel in the Sun" was at the St. Paul
Riviera for its first Twin City engagement
Harry B. French, Minnesota
at regular prices . . .
Amusement Co. president, hopes the
supreme court decision will permit the big
circuit to proceed with the building of new
theatres that it has been planning
John Fritchie has resigned as United Artists
office manager to handle his resort near
Big Fork, Minn.
Ronald's Oscar in Omaha
For Theatre Anniversary
OMAHA—Omahans knew quite a while
before Jack Benny listeners that Ronald
Colman's "Oscar" wasn't really missing. It
showed up here for the 25th anniversary of
the Omaha Theatre, managed by Stanley
Blackburn. It was displayed about town as
well as at the theatre. The Omaha's anniversary
program consisted of "A Double
Life," in which Colman won the Oscar, and
"Gentleman's Agreement." There also were
prize-winning shorts.
LEAK THEATRE SALES
A New Proven Method Based on
Reputation and Experience. We
S. Market Privately.
^— • ^— Artnur Leak
BERT THOMAS
Manager, Midwest Oifice
1109 Orchard Lane
Des Moines 13, la. Phone 4-9087
Confidential Correspondence
Invited
COMPLETELY NEW
HORKY'S CAFE
Bigger and Better Than Ever
— Featuring 'Delish' Steaks
1202 High St. Des Moines. Iowa
"Where Filmrow Friends Gather"
Open Daily at 4 p. m.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 MW 71

. . . Chilly
. . Harold
. . Gordon
. . Tom
OMAHA
The Nebraska supreme court now has in its
hands the case in which the city seeks to
take over part of Filmrow as a site for the
. . . R. D.
new Municipal auditorium. A decision on the
city's appeal is expected soon
Goldberg, circuit owner, is back from a Chicago
business trip . . . R. Thompson, Kansas
City, stopped here en route to Yankton,
S. D., where he is building a theatre . . .
Kathe.ine Strong, formerly of Sioux City,
has signed an aitor's contract with Paramount.
Macdonald Carey, another Sioux
Cityan, is working on the same lot in "The
Gieat Gatsby."
K. V. Fletcher has completed remodeling
. . .
of his Lyric Thea.re in Hartington, Neb. . . .
3: 1 Burke, KKO city salesman in Kansas
Ci.y. s;ent the weekend in Omaha
Fune.-al ssi vices weie held here for Mj-s. Otto
i:ar.s;n, vetersn projectionist at the RKO
Biandeis. £he had been ill a long time. Her
huEtand only recently left the hospital.
. . 'Will Singer,
Bernard Dudgeon, manager of Omaha's
ntw dii.e-in, went to Des Moines to watch
rrepara icns for opening of the Tri-States
D.i.e-I.i ihere. 'William Miskell, Tri-States
cistiict manager, was to be In Des Moines
Wednesday for the opening .
EKO Brandeis manager, is in Chicago for a
. . . vacation Don Allen, new Ti-i-States city
manager in Sioux City, spent the weekend
with his family in Des Moines. He still has
to find housing quarters in his new home
city.
Among the Omahans who attended the
Allied meeting in Des Moines were Branch
Managers Don McLucas, United Artists; Jerry
McGlynn, MGM; Joe Scott, 20th-Fox: Frank
Hannon, 'Warner Bros.; Joe Jacobs, Columbia,
and Oscar Hanson, Independent booker
. . . C. 'W. Coryell, Bassett, Neb., exhibitor,
is back from a week's fishing trip . . Lynn
.
White, Quality Theatre Supply, was on a
two-week fishing expedition in the same vicinity
as Coryell and set a record that will
be hard to match. One day he counted 79
fish . . . John Ash, MGM auditor, is in town
. . . Mrs. C. J. Kremer, wife of the exhibitor
at Stanton, Neb., is having tough luck and
now is spending her tenth week in the hospital
after breaking a hip.
Bill Tammen is putting a new tile front
and marquee on the Dakota Theatre in
Yankton, S. D. . . . R. j. "Bob" Hoff, Ballantyne
Co. sales manager, is back from a visit
to the firm's eastern export office . . . Ras
Anderson, Paramount head shipper, is on
vacation.
ot-
fc^'
Vincent Flynn has left on another assignment
for the MGM home office. He pinchhit
here while Branch Manager Jerry Mc-
Glynn took an extended vacation . . . Minnie
Mixon, Paramount report clerk, and
Richard Anderson, assistant shipper, are vacationing.
Norman Nielsen, RKO's new salesman,
headed the wrong direction out of Valentine,
Neb., and it ended in an 84-mile detour . . .
Much-needed rains in the 'Valentine and
Ainsworth areas have cheered business prospects.
Less than three inches had fallen
before the recent rain . . Clair Hilgers,
.
Eagle Lion district manager from Dallas,
arrived in town. Ed Cohen, Omaha branch
manager, accompanied him to Des Moines
where they met Herman Beiersdorf, western
division sales manager . . . The Muse
Theatre was headquarters for the Hinky-
Dinky cooking school.
Cheri Sherman is a new stenographer at
Columbia . Postman, assistant to
A. F. Cummings. head of the MGM maintenance
department in New York, was here
to visit the Omaha exchange . . . Mort
Eichenberg jr., Columbia salesman, has a
new "buggy."
Al Campbell, Columbia shipper, missed a
week. Arnold Shartin, office manager, and
Tom Hen.shaw, booker, filled in in addition
to other duties . . . George Smith, Paramount
western division manager from Los Angeles,
was here for a few days . Halloran,
Paramount salesman, is back after missing a
week.
Omahans are voting this month on additional
bonds that would pay for completion
of the almost-finished Municipal stadium
weather cut down the number of
Filmrow visitors. Among those noted were
Cliff Sherron, David City; C. J. Kremer,
Stanton; Earl Braclay, Stromsbui-g; Mrs.
Laura Moorehead, Stromsburg; Carl 'Worl,
Dunlap, Iowa; Mr. and Mrs. Claud Craig,
Plainsview; and Fritz Largen, Creighton.
Welcome to M. E. Anderson as new Paramount
branch manager here. And a farewell
to Don Hicks, who moves up after a
year here in which he made many friends
and an outstanding record . Emerson,
Tri-States city publicity chief, staged
a private showing of "The Iron Curtain" for
the press . . . Jack Epstein, Epstein Theatres,
was elected president of the southwest region
of B'nai B'rith at Sioux Falls, S. D.
In a recent report in these columns on the
WAHOO
America's Finest Screen Game
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
631 South Wabash Avenue Chicago, Illinois
installation of equipment by Western Theatre
Supply, Frank Hollingsworth was incorrectly
listed as owner of the Rialto in
Beatrice, Neb. The theatre is owned by M S
White.
Irma DeLand, office manager's secretary,
has been promoted to booker at RKO, succeeding
Mary Olsen who resigned. Nancy
Franks, stenographer, moves up to secretary
for Manager Jack Renfro. Evelyn Sunblade
is the new stenographer, replacing Nancy
Franks.
Western Theatre Supply has entered a
brightly-outfitted feminine bowling team in
league play. One of the members is Gerrie
Schwaring, an employe of Harry Taylor who
has local theatre interests . . . Jack Schweildelson,
former operator of the Cass Theatre
here, has joined Monogram as a salesman.
A. Don Allen to Sioux City
As Tri-States Manager
SIOUX CITY, IOWA—A. Don Allen has
arrived here from Des Moines to be city
manager for Tri-States theatres here. Allen
is replacing L. E. Davidson, resigned. Allen
has been advertising manager for Tri-States
the last two years. Before that he had been
city manager in Davenport and Rock Island
and Moline, 111., for five years, manager of
the Orpheum in Omaha for several years
and manager of the Des Moines, Des Moines,
for six years. Tri-States houses here are the
Capitol, Hollywood, 'Victory, Iowa, State and
Hipp. His headquarters will be at the Capitol.
Don Luftus New Manager
Of Estherville Grand
ESTHERVILLE, IOWA—Don Luftus of
Fort Dodge has taken over management of
the Grand here. He succeeds P. C. "Bing"
Ingram who resigned to accept appointment
as secretary of the Estherville Chamber of
Commerce. Loftus has managed theatres in
several northern Iowa cities during the last
several years and served here as manager
of the Grand in 1946. Loftus then left the
theatre business, but rejoined the Central
States chain a year ago as manager of the
Strand in Fort Dodge.
Over 700 Names Offered
STORM LAKE, IOWA—More than 700 persons
have submitted names for the new
theatre here in a contest sponsored by Manager
Bill Hill. The names have been forwarded
to the Pioneer Theatres headquarters
at St. Louis Park, Mimi., for the decision of
a board of judges. The theatre is being built
on the west side of Lake avenue on the site
of the old Tracy. The name desired was not
to be over six letters long and fitting to the
spirit, environs and community life here.
The winner will be announced soon.
Omaha Drive-In Open Soon
OMAHA—Tri-States Theatres plans a new
wrinkle in connection with its drive-in to
open here shortly. There will be a children's
playground in connection with the theatre.
They will be admitted to it and the theatre
free. It eliminates the baby sitter problem.
Tri-States announced there will be two
shows nightly.
72
BOXOFTICE : : May 15, 1948

I
. . Martin
. . The
Spencer Drive-In Site
Acquired by Pioneer
SPENCER, IOWA—Purchase of a 16-acre
tract of land north of the city limits has
been announced by Harold D. Fields, president
of the Pioneer Theatre Coi-p.. as a possible
location for an outdoor theatre. The
land was bought from Him Bullock of
Spencer.
According to Fields, Pioneer has no mimediate
plans for building due largely to the
fact that "modern outdoor motion picture
plants only recently have become practical
and developments during the next few
months will dictate when or if the new outdoor
theatre will be built."
Fields also is president of the Minnesota
Entertainment Enterprises, composed of a
group of Minneapolis theatremen wliich is
now operating one outdoor theatre and has
another under construction.
When asked about the new conventional
theatre proposed for Spencer some time ago,
Fields said: "We have not given up plans
for building a new theatre in your community.
Lack of a logical location and poor
building conditions have forced us to postpone
building for the present, but we intend
to give Spencer a larger theatre just as soon
as conditions make it possible,"
New House for St. Francis
ST. FRANCIS, KAS.—J. B. "Croft" Roshong,
owner of the St. Francis Theatre
here, is building a new house at an estimated
cost of $90,000. He hopes to have the
new showcase open in about five months.
Satisfaction — Always
Missouri Theatre Supply Co.
L. J. KIMBRIEL, Manager
Phone GRond 2864
^ 115 W. 18th Kansas City 8, Mo. ~
From the
BOXOFFICE FILES
• • «
(Twenty Years Ago)
THE ISIS THEATRE in Kansas City, one
of the largest neighborhood houses, is to
reopen soon. The theatre was damaged by
fire several months ago. Mickey Gross will
be manager . . . C. E. Liggett, owner of the
Liggett Theatre In Madison, Kas., dreamed
the other night he was in an auto wreck.
He kicked out the window of the car to
free himself. He awoke to find he had
pushed his foot through a window at the
side of his bed.
* * •
Seven years ago Paramount exchange
moved to its new building on 18th street in
Kansas City . Goldwyn branch in
Kansas City moved to the Snower Bldg.
« * *
. . George
Joseph Garman, formerly of Lincoln, Neb.,
has been appointed manager of the Universal
theatres in Kansas City. He succeeds
George Steiner, who also managed the Uptown.
S. B. Joffre has succeeded Steiner as
house manager of the Uptown .
Hinton has been appointed manager of the
Gillham Finkelstein, formerly
of
.
the Apollo, has been made booker for the
Universal theatres in Kansas City.
Samuel Jolley Dies at 54;
Operated Ozark in Noel
JOPLIN—Samuel P. Jolley, 54-year-old
proprietor of the Ozark Theatre in Noel, died
in a hospital here. Jolley had been a resident
of Noel two years and was a member
of the chamber of commerce there.
Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Maude V.
Jolley, and five children. One of the sons,
Walter, resigned recently as manager of the
Pix in St. John, Kas., in order to move to
Texas. Succeeding him there was Ray Lawrence,
who also took over the Dickinson house
in Stafford.
First Drive-In Is Opened
In Vicinity of Des Moines
DES MOINES—Des Moines' first drive-in
opened May 12, offering two shows each night
and a midnight show every Saturday. The
theatre is on southeast Fourteenth street
near Army Post road.
fintonliJones
THEATRE INSURANCE Speriefist
Srivins You Since 1918
T.>i* ..tf Truti Bl(f«. Kaxt*! City 6. M*.
TALKING TRAILERS, LOBBY PAPER
AND MATS
Write, Wire or Phone
PENNINGTON POSTER SERVICE
130 West 18th Phone: GRand 8626
Kansas City 8, Mo.
¥
nD[iin«[PT[DM
STAGE
aUiiini
EQUIPMENT COMPANY
riLuiLim,
EVCRYTHINa FOR THE STACK . kuOITGIIIUM
OX OFFICE . 1324 Orand Ay...
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
We Cover the U. S. Market
A different service of long
experience and reputation
ARTHUR LEAK THEATRE SALES
3422 Kinmore 1109 Orchard Lane
Dallas T3.202G Des Moines 4-9087

'
. . William
. . Bob
KANSAS
JJ F. Korholz, president of the Drincolator
Corp.. was a visitor at National Theatre
Supply . . . Charles Thomas has installed
new beverage, popcorn and malt machines
.
in his Uptown Theatre at Sweet Springs . . .
Guy Rothrock of the Rothrock Theatre in
Maxville, Kas., is recuperating from an illness
. . Saul Frank has purchased a new
home in Coldwater, Kas. Prank has the
Chief theatres there and in Sedan.
Harold Gibbons has returned to Wichita
where he operates the Victory Theatre, after
spending three weeks in Fort Worth, Tex..
opening his Pike Drive-In for its second
Francis Bateman, sales manager
season . . .
of Screen Guild, was in the local King Enterprises
office conferring with Julian H.
^ci«i Svutirr. Simx 1S99
STEBBINS THEATRE Equipment Co.
leOit WyandoUa Si.
f KANSAS CITY 8. MO-
Tr^\^ r » '
POP CORN BOXES
10c Size
ATTRACTIVE DESIGN
^^>.
IMMEDIATE SHIPMENT
Paper Supply Co.
505 Delaware Street
KANSAS CITY 6, MO.
IPCIlP>CORM
CITY
. . . King, area franchise holder The Folly,
local burlesque house, has gone over to a
straight motion picture policy. Program consists
of double bills changed three times a
week. Prices are 30 and 35 cents.
. . . Also
Theatre Enterprises managers and personnel
in the local office included Melvin Bigley
and Charles Thrayer of Springfield; Jack
Campbell, Osawatomie, Kas.; "Bob" Parker
Meluish, manager, and Bill York, chief projectionist.
Sunflower, Kas.; Bob Fulkerson.
Eudora. Kas.; Mark Cato. Parsons
in the office was R. I. "Rip" Payne, executive
vice-president of TEI in Dallas.
Arthur Cole and some other close friends
of T. R. "Tommie" Thompson, manager of
the former Disney office here, gave a birthday
party for Tommie and his 11-year-old
daughter Gerry at Cole's home last Friday.
Festivities included a home-cooked dinner
for the Thompsons and a somewhat novel
"gift" from Ralph Snider, "Peck" and George
Baker. Also attending were Jim Lewis, Bill
Burke, Bob Withers and Dick Biechele. According
to Cole, an "old-time good time" was
had by all. Thompson has since departed for
Yankton, S. D., where he is supervising the
building of a theatre.
. . . Don
Ernie Block reports that his new house in
Sabetha i^ill open June 16, not the end of
this month as previously reported
Walker, Warner exploiteer, was in Denver
making arrangements for the premiere of
"Silver River" . . . Stanley Durwood of that
circuit reports that the chain is still hoping
to build the proposed drive-in near Jefferson
City. Tieup is obtaining a quiet title to
the land.
The local loge of the Colosseum of Motion
Picture Salesmen will hold a dinner for its
members Monday (17) at the Ambassador
The federal communications commission
hotel . . .
hearing on local television
applica-
Per
1,000
BOXE^!
Just received another carload! New design! Very attractive!
Packed 500
POPCORN BAGS
CT Cfl
in Carton 3/ •uU
F.O.B., K. C.
Missouri
One-pound square bottom Kraft
Three-quarter pound white
$1.48 per M
$1.35 perM
Every bag guaranteed;
HYBRID POPCORN Sr-.Tu'dr^ed^^bT"'^^'^^ per hundred lbs.
$13.50
rUrl.UKN jALT Case of 24 two-pound packages $2.75
tions will be held early in July. Present proposals
call for a fifth chaimel, No. 7, to be
added to the four already slated for the city
MGM house organ, and assistant to H. M.
. . . Mike Simons, editor of The Distributor,
Richey of the Metro public relations department,
was a visitor at the local exchange.
Exhibitors on Filmrow: Basil Fogleson of
the Odeon, Green City; John Com-ter, Courter,
Gallatin; Robert M. Rogers, Rogers,
Buckner; W. E. Silver of the proposed Silver
in Cameron; Mr. and Mrs. Dwight D. Miller,
Argonia, Argonia, Kas.; Vernon Austin,
Ozark, Lowry City; Curley Wilson, Beyer,
Excelsior Springs; R. C. Davison, Binney,
Pattonsburg; C. B. Shaner, Dixie, Odessa;
Harley Fryer, Olathe; J. R. McElwee, Roxy,
Blue Springs, and Mrs. Audrey Plynn of the
Drive-In at Great Bend, Kas.
M. G. "Shack" Shackelford, Eagle Lion
manager, was out in the territory last week.
Beverly Miller, district chief, returned from
a trip to Denver and Salt Lake City, where
he conferred with Harry Thomas, producer
and former president of PRC . . . Johnnie
Johnston, former EL salesman, Charles Troxel
and Paul Hanna are new additions to Julian
King's clock department, a phase of King
Enterprises.
Walt Donohoe, assistant manager under
Tom Wolf at the Roxy, became a father recently.
The baby girl, named Cynthia Eileen,
Arnold Stone,
is Donohoe's first child . . .
father of Martin Stone, Screenland cafe
operator, was operated on last week at Menorah
Doyle Branscum, Commonwealth
hospital . . . manager in Harrison, Ark., has
been chosen city councilman.
Other Filmrow visitors were Jay Wooten,
Fox Midwest city manager in Hutchinson,
Ka,3.; C. E. Mayberry, Eureka Springs, Ark.;
C. A. Swiercinsky, Major, Washington, Kas.;
Mrs. Dayle Sproule, Yale, Fort Scott, Kas.;
Tom Edwards, Harris & Edwards circuit,
Farmington, and O. C. Alexander, Kiowa,
Kas.
First thing that happened to George Willhoite.
Commonwealth manager who recently
transferred to Warrensburg, was a case
of mumps. He is back on the job by now,
though . Spencer, circuit pilot at
the Strand in Creston, Iowa, is mighty proud
of liis new concession stand. Likewise Bob
Gillaspie with the new paint job at the
Mainstreet in Warrensburg.
. . .
. . . The
Bob Shelton, Commonwealth vice-president,
and Dick Orear, circuit purchasing agent, are
back from a quick trip to Manhattan, Belleville,
New
Superior and Lawrence, Kas. seats have been installed in Frank Northrup's
Northrup in Syracuse, Kas.
Glen in Topeka was robbed of $49 recently.
Thieves entered the booth through a fire
door Marshall is the new assistant
.
to Dave Dallas, TEI chief in Man-
hattan, Kas.
Several used popcorn machines. Write for particulars.
SLreve THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
217 West 18th Street Kansas City 8, Missouri
mOTIOn PICTURE SERVICE Co.
rmsmssmBm
74 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

Dormont South Hills
Reopened by Harris
PITTSBURGH—The South Hills in Dormont.
refurnished and refurbished, was reopened
under the Harris circuit banner, the
Warner lease having expired May 1. The
theatre is the 20th unit in the Harris enterprise.
New equipment includes sound, projection,
seats, carpets, marquee. Prices were
increased.
Joe Beile, formerly at the Liberty, East
Liberty, is the new manager of the South
Hills. Harry Koch, veteran Warner manager,
who was at the South Hills, will manage the
downtown Warner. Lou Gilbert having been
transferred to the Warner Regent, East Liberty.
Alan Barkley. who managed the Family,
East Liberty, which bowed out last week
to make way for a dress shop, moved up the
street to the Liberty, succeeding Beile.
Warners' Hollywood, Dormont, is being extensively
remodeled, and Dave Smith, manager,
has been switched temijjorarily to the
Boulevard, Brookline. Howard Diebold, former
Boulevard manager, was promoted to the
Warner Columbia, Brookville.
Shapiro at Mount Union
Slated to Reopen This Week
MOUNT UNION. PA.—The Shapiro, closed
since March 13 when an explosion from gas
in a coal furnace wrecked the building housing
the theatre, was to reopen late this week,
according to Joseph Shapiro. Major improvements
include the installation of a modern
new terazzo front, new rest rooms and fixtures,
remodeling and decorations. The terrific
explosion in the basement of the drug
store adjoining the theatre occurred during
a Satui'day matinee performance with several
hundred children and adults in attendance.
Fortunately, no theatre patron was injured,
but eight men, in and near the building, did
suffer injuries and burns. Pi-operty damage
was estimated to be approximately $30,000.
The building is owned by the Shapiro
brothers, Joe and Bob.
Head Jewish Drive
CLEVELAND—Nat Wolf, Warner Ohio
zone manager, and Henry Greenberger of
Community Theatres, have been named cochairmen
of the motion picture division of
the Jewish welfare drive which seeks to raise
six million dollars in the Cleveland area.
This marks the ninth consecutive year that
Wolf has spearheaded the drive. Members
of the committee working with Wolf and
Greenberger are M, B. Horwitz, Bert Lefkowich,
Harry Weiss, E. J. Stutz, Saul Frifield
and Martin Sperber.
Assists Hospital Fund
MEADVILLE. PA.—A mass meeting for
store employes and office workers was held in
the Park Theatre one morning a week ago
to stimulate interest in the United hospital
fund drive for $950,000. L. M. Conrad, Park
manager, is very active in the campaign. Citation
emblems will be awarded all business
firms exceeding quotas.
Theatre Joins Filmrow Agency
MAHONTNGTOWN, PA. — The Crescent,
operated by Louis Peretta, has joined the Lou
Hanna film booking and buying agency,
Pittsburgh.
High Court Decision Seen
Benefit to Independents
Derby Patrons Snooze
In Louisville Loew's
Louisville—On Derby eve a year ago.
Manager George Hunt of Loew's brought
In extra revenue by keeping the theatre
open all night. It was the first all-night
picture show ever offered here, and it
did so well he repeated it this Derby eve.
From 10:30 a. m. Friday until 7:30 a. m.
Saturday, the Derby visitor who couldn't
find a bed in town, or who didn't want
to pay the highly inflated Derby prices
for a room, could lean back in one of
Loew's orchestra chairs for the price of
an admission. "State of the Union" was
on the screen.
Warner Executives Attend
Testimonial for Moore
PITTSBURGH—Industry friends of Forrest
Dryden "Dinty" Moore paid tribute to
him and wished him good luck and much
success in his position as eastern district
manager for Warner Bros. Pictures at a testimonial
dinner Monday night in the William
Penn hotel. The former local branch
manager now has headquarters in Boston.
Among Warner executives present were
Jules Lapidus. eastern and Canadian division
manager: Charles Rich, district manager:
Norman Moray, short subjects and newsreel
sales manager: Ed Hinchy, playdate department
head: J. M. Wechsler, Cleveland: J. S.
Abrose, Cincinnati: C. W. McKean, Indianapolis:
Paul Krumenacker, who succeeded
Moore as Pittsburgh branch manager, and
Louis J. Kaufman and Dan Triester of Warners
theatre department. Lapidus, Rich and
Wechsler are all former Pittsburgh salesmen
and managers.
Judge Ben Lencher was toastmaster and
speakers were James B. Clark. Sam Fineberg,
Lapidus, Bert Stearn. William Blatt, Andy
Bernhard, M. A. Silver, Harry Feinstein. Morris
Finkel, Luke Barnett and Dean Moor. A
silver tea set was presented to the guest of
honor. F. D. Moore jr. also was a guest.
Ed Wheeler Joins Sack
DALLAS—Ed A. Wheeler has been appointed
special sales representative for Sack
Amusement Enterprises for the exchange territories
of Cincinnati, Cleveland, Indianapolis,
St. Louis and Pittsburgh. Wheeler,
former Astor franchise holder in Cincinnati,
has disposed of his exchange holdings, and
will make his headquarters in Cincinnati,
from which base he will direct sales and
bookiogs.
Theatre to Be Enlarged
BERKLEY SPRINGS, W. VA.—The Berkley
here will be renovated and remodeled
this summer by the Alpine circuit, Charles
Anderson, president, stated this week. New
front and marquee will improve the exterior
and new projection equipments will be
installed. Remodeling will make possible the
installation of 150 additional seats.
CLEVELAND—Cleveland independent theatre
owners, on the whole, are of the opinion
that the supreme court decision in the U.S.
vs. Paramount case, is in their favor. Among
tho.se holding this opinion is Ernest Schwartz,
president and general manager of the Cleveland
Motion Picture Exhibitors Ass'n.
"I am entirely in accord with Abram F.
Myers, chairman and general coimsel of
Allied States in calling this ruling a victory
for the independent theatre owners," Schwartz
said in reply to an inquiry as to his interpretation
of the ruling. "And we have sent
to every member of our association a copy
of Mr. Myers' bulletin highhghting the salient
features of the ruling."
"The supreme court ruling is the first step
in the right direction to eventually put our
industry on an equitable foundation," said
Meyer Fine, head of Associated Theatres,
one of the largest independent circuits in
this area. "While, in my opinion, the decision
is not perfect, it is 75 per cent favorable
to the independent theatre owner, and
to that extent I approve it. Whether the
benefits to independent theatre owners accorded
in the supreme court ruhng will become
operative, rests with the circuit court
decisions."
Asked whether, in his opinion divestiture
of theatres by the producer-distributors will
encourage larger independent circuits. Fine
admitted this possibihty but, he says, "I
think the extent to which independent circuits
may expand will be limited by the
courts."
Another circuit owner sees divorcement as
a certainty as result of the supreme court
ruling. The ruling is favorable to the independent
exhibitor, he thinks, and is a constructive
move in correcting industry operations.
Pi-esident Schwartz said that, following a
meeting of the board of the Cleveland
MPEA to .study the supreme court ruling,
he will call a general membership meeting.
Tri-State Ass'n of lATSE
To Meet in Monessen
MONESSEN. PA. — The Tri-State Ass'n,
lATSE and MPMO, will convene June 6 at
the Park Casino club on Grandview boulevard,
a mile south of Monessen. F. P. "Reel"
McCoy, secretary, announced. Local host is
the Charleroi-Monessen Local 628. R. J.
Crosby, business agent of Local 628, is general
chairman. A banquet and entertainment will
follow the business sessions. Richard F.
Walsh, lA president: Thomas J. Shea, his
assistant: William P. Raoul. secretarj'-treasurer,
and James J. Brennan, lA vice-president,
have assured the officers of the association
that they will be in attendance.
Russ Zebra Joins Hanna
PITTSBURGH—Russ Zebra, former Republic
and RKO salesman and until last
week booker at the Monogram exchange,
joined the Louis E. Hanna organization at
the Acme-Franklin office as film booker for
the Hanna theatre accounts, numbering more
than a dozen in this area.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 ME 79

COLUMBUS
John Pennington, Cincinnati, is the new manager
of the Majestic, succeeding Lou Holleb,
who has taken a lease on the Imperial,
Zanesville, Ohio ... A coliseum seating 20.-
000 is part of a "dream" expansion program
at Ohio State university announced last week.
The huge auditorium would provide expanded
facilities for basketball, commencement
exercises and such activities as Farmers
week. No site has been decided on, even
tentatively. The same program envisions a
new radio and speech building which would
become a httle theatre center. Other items
in the proposed expansion program include
a field house near Ohio Stadium with an
'HOW TO
CONSTRUCT
AND
EQUIP A
DRIVE-IN
THEATRE"
fCdd^ write for literature on
THEATRE
EQUIPMENT including
A Motiograph double shutter
projectors
• High intensity ore lamps
fDRIVE-IN
• Anti-reflection coated lenses
• Aflotor generator sets
• Rectifiers
• 150-250 and 500 watt sound
reproducing systems
• In-car speakers
• Junction boxes
• Projection room accessories
RINGOLD THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO.
106 Michigan St. N. W.
GRAND RAPIDS 2, MICH.
J
outdoor swimming pool and a women's gymnasium.
Lise Bourdin, French cover girl and model
who was selected "Miss Arch of Ti'iumph" for
the New York premiere of the Enterprise
featm-e "Arch of Triumph," had a whirlwind
two days here in advance of the opening of
the film at Loew's Ohio under guidance of
Manager Walter Kessler, UA representative
Ward Farrar and Fred Oestreicher, Ohio
publicist. Mile. Bourdin had luncheon with
the local French club, met Mayor Rhodes and
Ohio State's May queen candidates, attended
an intrasquad football game at Ohio Stadium,
starred in a fashion show and posed for
countless pictures.
Lack of patronage caused the closing of
the Columbia Theatre stock company at
the Hartman after only three weeks of a
projected ten-week sea.son. Seven feminine
members of the company were guests of the
women's committee of the 'Variety Club at a
farewell luncheon. Mrs. Cecil M. Sansbury,
general chairman of the committee, was assisted
by Mrs. Ben Cowall, chairman of the
hostess committee. Her assistants were Mrs.
Lester Thai, Mrs. Walter Kessler, Mrs. Robert
Louis, Mrs. Sidney Katz, Mrs. H. W. Winstaffer,
Mrs. Samuel Sculler, Mrs. T. C. Polster,
Mrs. Milton Yassenoff, Mrs. Don Burrows,
Mrs. F. R. Gardiner, Mrs. Robert Wagner,
Mrs. Charles Selby and Mrs. Melville
Frank.
First cooking school since the war is being
held at the Palace, through arrangements
made by Harry Schreiber with Ramon Cram.
Dispatch promotion manager. "Classes" were
held three mornings this week with a variety
of prizes being awarded. The Palace's
"The Iron Curtain" received tieup mentions.
May is the month of queens and several local
theatres tied in with the local "royalty."
Ohio State's May queen candidates, in addition
to meeting Lise Bourdin, "Miss Arch of
Triumph" for Loew's Ohio, appeared at the
University Theatre. Gene Tierney. of the
Palace's "The Iron Curtain." picked the May
queen of Grandview High school and the
Ohio Dairy Queen of 1948 will be selected
in finals at the Palace.
Charles Egger, Washington Scripps-Howard
bureau correspondent, who saw "State of
the Union" at its preview for the 'White
House Correspondents Ass'n in the nation's
capitol, reviewed the picture for the Citizen
at its opening here at the Ohio. He was in
town for the May presidential Ohio primary.
Sistersville Theatre
Is Being Modernized
SISTERSVILLE, W. VA.—Paramount was
closed this week for extensive remodeling and
the opening of a modem new front on a
property several parcels away. Formerly a
reversed "L," the theatre is beng converted
into an "L" under plans of S.
A. Peters, owner
and veteran exhibitor. The former lobby will
be turned into a store room. The auditorium
is being renovated and decorated, new lighting
systems are being installed, as are carpets,
seats, drapes, screen, soimd-projection
Voice of the Theatre equipment, etc., from
National Theatre Supply.
Video Seen as New,
Localized Medium
COLUMBUS—Simple transmission of motion
pictures via television or simultaneous
televising of radio programs are "considerably
less than entertaining," said Nathan
M. Rudich, television editor of the New Theatre
Arts magazine, in a special television
conference which preceded the Ohio State
university institute for education by radio.
Martin A. Gosch, New York, television producer,
pointed out that the use of television
might bring about a decentralization of the
theatre and movies. Video should get its
greatest support from local theatres, he said.
Milton S. Allison, of the staff of Cincinnati's
new station, 'WLWT, said television is
a family medium. It tends to draw the family
together in the home rather than separate it
as many fields of commercial entertainment
do. He said communities should start to
organize immediately professional companies
of players that the local stations will find
and give support to when they begin television
broadcasts.
Hygienic Presents No. 4
In Charity Show Series
WILMINGTON, OHIO—The fourth
(May
6 1 edition of Hygienic Productions charity
stage show, "The Best Is Yet to Come," was
by far the best in the series to date.
Top billing in the two-hour revue went to
"Skitch" Henderson, whose terrific piano
styling rates him as one of the fastest rising
young maestros in the country.
The SRO sign went up. 21 days ahead of
the opening. With 1,000 seats, and two performances,
in a town of 10,000 people, it
goes without saying that the patrons were
well pleased with the past performances, and
look forward to the next. The next edition
of "The Best Is Yet to Come" will be presented
June 14.
Independent Poster Service
Will Open in Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH—A new independent poster
exchange will be opened here within ten
days or two weeks, Eli E. Kaufman announced
several days ago. A manufacturer's
representative for theatre games and premiums
in recent months. Kaufman is a veteran
in the industry and in the poster business.
The new company will be named Pittsbm-gh
Poster Exchange.
Murdock Leaves Warners
To Go With Pennstate
UNIONTOWN, PA.—Joe Murdock has resigned
as manager of the Warner Theatre
in Morgantown. W. Va., to accept the post
as manager of the Pennstate Amusement Co.
here. He succeeds George J. Corcoran, who
has joined Allied MPTO of Western Pennsylvania
as business manager. Murdock is
a veteran of the Warners organization.
Victoria to Be Modernized
WHEELING, W. VA.—The Victoria, formerly
operated by the West Virginia Theatre
Enterprises, was transferred to Steve
Manas the first of May. The theatre will be
remodeled, decorated, reseated and newly
equipped.
80
BOXOFFICE ;; May 15, 1948

—
. . James
. . Loretta
. . The
. . Dave
. .
NTS Team Crowned
Nightingale Champ
DETROIT—Championship team this year
in the Nightingale club bowling league is
National Theatre Supply. Team bowlers were
Nick Forest, Carl Bewersdorf, Eugene Hass,
Floyd Akins and Gilbert Light, captain. Their
names will go on the Max Robin and Raymond
Gagnon trophy. The Jack Hall trophy
was won by Charles MacParlane, who increased
his average over last year by 23 pins.
Final team stands are as follows:
Won Lost
National Theatre Supply 68 44
National Carbon Co 51 51
Projectionists Local 199 56 56
Altec Sound Service 55 57
McArthur Theatre Equipment 55 57
Lorenzen's Flowrer Shop 52 60
Brenkert Projectors 52 60
Ernie Forbes Theatre Supply 49 63
Winners in the eight divisions are:
Group 1 —Joseph Michel, 178: John Lindenthal,
174: Herb Klein, 174; Roy Thompson,
172: Gilbert Light, 172, and Maurice
Beers, 161.
Group 2—Jack Colwell, 174; Francis Light,
170; William Fouchey, 164, and Eddie Waddell,
161.
Group 3—Matt Haskin, 171;
Edgar Douville,
165; Floyd Akins, 164; Walter Rosmys, 162,
and Donald Lewis, 160.
Group 4^Ralph Haskin, 165; Welber
Haartge, 161; Carl Larsen, 161; Nick Forest,
155: Percy Huebner, 154, and Leon Engerson,
154.
Group 5—Ralph Ball, 157; William Swistak,
150; Carl Bewersdorf, 150, and Romulus Albu
and Raymond Gagnon, 145 each.
Group 6—Roy Light, 158; Cecil Cox, 151;
Harold Welch, 145; George Haskin, 144. and
Prank Scheuer, 143.
Group 7—Edward Neilsen, 149; Fred Sutterfield,
140; Michael Badarak, 138, and Robert
Moesta, 132.
Group 8—Eugene Hass, 141; Charles Mac-
Parlane. 138; Charles Ross. 134; Carl Bacon.
130, and Earl Woodling. 128.
High single game—One from each group,
Roy Thompson, 249; Jack Colwell. 233: Edgar
Douville, 240: Welbert Baartge, 236; Raymond
Gagnon, 212; Roy Light, 214; Fred Sutterfield,
202, and Charles MacFarlane. 213.
High 3 game—One from each group, Joseph
Michel, 676; Jack Colwell, 598: Matt Haskin,
628; Welber Haaitge, 595; Raymond Gagnon,
565; Roy Light. 527; Fred Sutterfield. 515, and
Charles MacFarlane, 559.
Winners of team high single—Brenkert
Projectors, 968, and Ernie Forbes Theatre
Supply, 913. Winners of team high three-
National Carbon Co., 2,597, and National
Theatre Supply, 2,593.
Acquire Altec Service
CINCINNATI—Sound servicing agreements
in Ohio and West Virginia have been signed
with Altec Service by the following theatres:
Liberty in Middleport and Lenox in Wilmington,
Ohio, and Music Hall and Keyser in
Keyser and Colonial in Buckhannon, W. Va.
Universal Film also has signed for the service.
FILM EXCHANGE DRUGS
TTie Showmen 's Drug Store
Drugs • Cosmetics * Prescriptions
Personal Service irom Two Showmen
MAX BERNBAUM JACK GALLAGHER
Pharmacist
Manager
Phone CLifford 1527. CLiiford 3694
DETROIT
Toe Del Rio, former screen comic, opened
this week at the Avenue . Lyric,
lately managed by Maurice Smilay for Associated,
is being torn down . Korman,
circuit operator, spent part of a leisure-
. . .
ly Sunday afternoon visiting his Lenox, formerly
the Oakland, in Highland Park
Joseph Urban, who was manager of the Farnum
in Hamtramck until five years ago,
when he dropped out of show business, is
the new manager of the Lenox.
Lewis W. Smith and Leon B. Nevin, local
advertising men, are establishing the Warner
Theatre Service to operate a theatre-merchant
Wilson Elliott, assistant manager
tieup . . . of the Royal Theatre, is recovering from
a serious back operation at Harper hospital.
The operation is an outgrowth of his experiences
while a German prisoner during the
war . H. Ross, who is building a
drive-in in Dearborn township, lives at the
extreme opposite end of Detroit's suburbs in
Grosse Pointe.
.
. . . Fred
Jackie Lamarr of Peryl's costume shop is
recovering from a relapse of pneumonia . . .
Bob Dunbar, who recently resigned as branch
manager of Warners, is convalescing in Phoenix
D'Ambrosia, bookkeeper at
Warners, was married Saturday
Newman, operator at the Courtesy, is back
from a month's trip to Las Vegas, the Grand
Canyon, and California. At Los Angeles he
caught the last Tom Breneman show .
Louis G. Havens, operator at the Fine Arts,
is back from a vacation spent studying television
in Chicago laboratories.
Jess Veldman, office manager at 20th-Fox,
has resigned after 21 years with the company,
and will go into business for himself
Edward Schnitzer,
in northern Michigan . . .
United Artists eastern manager, was due in
town for a brief visit . . Manuel Helfman,
.
who has taken over the former Dale Theatre,
will rename it the Model. As reported
recently, ex-owner Clare Winnie is taking
the theatre name, equipment, sign, etc., down
the street a couple of blocks to the longclosed
Victoria Theatre which will become
the new Dale.
Charlie Collins is able to talk again, although
his jaws are still wired together. He
continues to eat nothing but soup. He will
be back on the job soon at the rate he's
progressing.
fl/ISH
THEATRE SEATS
RECCVERED — REPAIRED ANYWHERE
BEST WORKMANSHIP. POSITIVELY LOWEST PRICE
PROMPT SERVICE
JOHN HEIDT, 1507 W. Kirby. Detroit g, Mich.
FIRST I N
Phone: TYIer 7-8015
MID -EAST
UDT's 2,500-seat "Woods" at Grosse
Point Woods, and Vince Laica's 500-seat
"New" at New Baltimore simultaneously
announce the first Mid-East installations
of Heywood-Wakefield's newly introduced
"Encore" line of theatre chairs.
Ned Oglesby, H-W Michigan salesman,
invites exhibitors to inspect the
two installations.
Ad Rates Are Increased
By Detroit Newspapers
DETROIT—Increases in advertising rates,
affecting particularly users of the theatre
directory, have been announced by the Times
and News, afternoon new.spapers. The morning
Times is expected to follow suit, but so
far has not notified theatres of any change.
The Times is raising its rate from 40 to 45
cents a line, or $12.60 for a basic four-line
ad. This is the rate the News has been getting
up to now. The News is boosting its rate
by 3'-! cents a line weekdays and 5 cents
Sundays. The theatre directory contains 150
to 200 listings daily.
ERNIE
FORBES
214 W. Montcalm
Detroit 1, Mich.
Phone CAdillac 1122
LEONARD SOSKIN AGENCY
Retirement income, life, automobile,
fire, health and accident insurance.
1712 Book Bldg. CA. 3S15, Detroit
LONG SIGN CO.
MARQUISE SIGNS
MAINTENANCE SERVICE
840 W. Baltimore, Detroit — TR 1-5477
Theatrp Sign and Marquee Maintenance
/

. . Members
. . Leo
. . The
. . Art
PITTSBURGH
John A. Reilly, veteran city theatre manager,
resigned duties at tlie Uptown Rialto
and lias returned to tiie Metropolitan in
the Bloomfield district where he had been
a fixture for a number of years. Employed
for some months by the Mervis Bros., Reilly
was persuaded to resume Met duties by Lou
Kaufman . of the Springdale
high school marching band, winners of the
state championship at Oil City, were guests
of Al Panza, manager of the Miami . . . F. E.
Hasley, East Pittsbm-gh exhibitor, and Mrs.
Hasley had another "cleanup" on their hands
recently when French Creek overflowed and
flooded their cottage at Cochranton . . . Jim
Vazzana, Atlas supply salesman, brought some
of his wife's pies into his office. They didn't
last long.
. . . Approximately
Emil Foryan resigned Republic shipping
duties and moved over to the 20th-Fox shipping
department. Joe Calender succeeded him
Mr. and Mi's. Gene DeFallo,
at Republic . . .
Lumberport, W. Va.,. recently returned from
vacationing in Florida
2,000 employes of Altoona retail firms attended
a security bond rally at the Strand
one morning last week. At the conclusion of
the program, "America the Beautiful" was
screened.
Frank DePace, Shinnston, W. 'Va., theatre
manager, married a girl from Lumberport
. . . Jacob Silverman, who retired from the
business at Altoona the first of the year, is
ailing . . . Mrs. Leo Isaacs, wife of the Columbia
salesman, has recuperated from an
iUness . . Clair "Pap" HaU, Clarence, Pa.,
.
exhibitor-manufacturer-merchandiser, is vacationing
in the Bahamas "and fishing." He
is expending $50,000 in remodeling his general
store at Clarence which will be converted
into a super market and electrical
appliance store.
Jim Alexander
Sam Fineberg
1705 Blvd. of the Allies!
PITTSBURGH 19, PA.
Phone ATlantic 6156
L. L. Chamberlain, veteran exhibitor of
Johnston, is retiring. He expects to dispose
of his Dale Theatre
here within a few
weeks. "Les" and his
family will settle in
Florida where he will
enter the motel business
. . . George Callahan
jr. of Exhibitors
Service Co. and Louis
E. Hanna of Acme Distiibuting
Co. flew to
New York to attend
annual meetings of
National Film Carriers
and National
L. L. Chamberlain
Film Service organizations . . . Ray Allison,
Johnston exhibitor who vacationed in Florida
for several months, returned with new
wardrobe and de luxe accessories. The "Allison
gang" presented him with a homecoming
gift, a crocodile leather wallet with solid
gold rim.
Marjorie Ann Fineman, daughter of the
David Pinemans, McKee and Rankin exhibitors,
appeared as a dancer in the University
of Pittsburgh show last week . Alan
Gambles of the Seward, Seward, are parents
of a third child, their first daughter, born
Thursday last week at Johnstown . . . Stanley
Dudelson, RKO salesman, was hospitalized
all of last week after sustaining painful injuries
in a headon auto collision.
Lois Houser and Minnie Bishoff are new
girls at the Eagle Lion office . . . Vince Aldert,
manager of Loew's Ritz, vacationed in
New York . Guerrein jr.'s Hillcrest,
. . .
Erie, has installed Heywood-Wakefield chairs
George Jaffe, veteran burlesque impresario,
has been recuperating after being
critically ill in Montefiore hospital.
Cole Bros, circus has cancelled its Johnstown
date and Ringling Bros.-Barnum &
Bailey has switched that city's date from
June 3 to June 5.
. . .
Freedom from the municipal gross sales
tax has been proposed by Jake Otto, tax consultant
of the Ohio Valley Board of Trade
in an effort to bring new industries into
Wheeling Boyd Chamberlain, 18-yearold
son of Les Chamberlain, Johnstown exhibitor,
again is in Memorial hospital there.
The Dale youth was a patient for several
months and underwent 35 blood transfusions
in winning a fight over a rare blood disease.
His condition now is reported to be fail-.
Pennsylvania Federation of Labor, in convention
here, approved a resolution proposing
legalized horse racing in Pennsylvania
as a means of easing taxes. The convention
endorsed no political candidates. The Johnstown
Central Labor council proposed a resolution
urging repeal of the new tax law which
allows political subdivisions to tax anything
not taxed by the state.
"I Remember Mama" was sneak-previewed
the other evening at the Warner . . . Mr. and
Mrs. Rudolph Covi were hosts at the May 7
family night party at the Variety Club . . .
Harry Bernstein was here exploiting Dick
Powell's "To the Ends of the Earth." Columbia
had local government agents at a
screening of the picture . . . "Citizen Saint"
which played a successful engagement at Carnegie
Music Hall, has moved downtown to
the Art Cinema.
Art Levy, Columbia manager and Frank
Silverman, salesman, on business in West
Virginia last week, visited Miss E. G. Gaffney,
who with Miss Pomeroy, is a veteran
theatre owner-manager at Paden City. They
keep in touch with the industry and Filmrow
through BOXOFFICE, Levy reports.
Jean Wisnioski, who recently joined National
Screen as a booking clerk, is the former
Jean Viviano of old Filmrow a number
of years ago . Levy, Columbia manager,
was visited by George Josephs, assistant
to Abe Montague, and Irving Wormser,
Theatres at
home office representative . . .
New Martinsville, W. Va., suffered three feet
of flood water damage . . . Edith Brill resigned
at the Columbia exchange.
. . .
. . .
Larry Schacter joined Eagle Lion as northern
area salesman. He succeeds Sydney
Marcia Cohen is the
Stoller, resigned . . .
new Eagle Lion booker, succeeding Allan
Tolley, resigned Max Meyer, Columbia
home office, is on duty at the local exchange
Chuck Shannon, a Warner circuit manager
for more than a dozen years, has resigned
at Sharon, Pa., and is to hit the road
as company manager for a Cleveland musical
revue.
Renee Soltz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Jacob Soltz of the Rhumba, and Eugene
Lichter are engaged . . . Cart Dortic, Mono-
SPECIAL
ANNOUNCEMENT

. . . The
. . Sympathy
. . P&R
. . Mr.
gram's new salesman, is filling in temporarily
as booker . . . Mildred Hamilton. 20th-
Fox inspector, is vacationing in California
New National Theatre Supply stenographer
is Thelma Perry to
.
John Navoney, Paramount booker, whose
mother died May 7.
Two of the local 20th-Fox office girls will
be June brides. Grace Thomas, boxoffice report
clerk, and Carl Lauterbach have a June
17 date, and Annetta Sylvester, bookers'
stenographer, and Orlando Chacha have set
Among 20th-Fox visitors this
June 20 . . .
week were Ray Moon, division manager; J. V.
St. Clair, his home office assistant, and Howward
Minsky. assistant division manager.
Mrs. Oscar T. Taylor, mother of Bob Taylor,
manager of the Harris Senator, won a
Breakfast in Hollywood orchid the other day
for her charitable work during a dozen years
at the Louise Home for Babies . and
Mrs. David Fineman made their amiual tagday
tour of Filmrow for the benefit of the
Home for Jewish Children . Amusement
Co. has been organized here by Patricia
Stearn and Ruth S. Hadburg. wives respectively
of Bert M. Stearn, who heads Co-op,
and Dave Hadburg, manager of the Hazelwood.
Pat and Ruth have acquired the
Heights in Crafton Heights from George
Saittis and William Papas of the Temple.
. . .
Joe Mercer, pioneer exhibitor who retired
from the industry two years ago, was a Filmrow
visitor the other day. He and Mrs. Mercer
are enjoying good health and the former
showman awaits the gardening season. Joe
was accompanied here from Warwood district.
Wheeling, by Bill Habegger, proprietor
of the Lincoln, Mercer's former theatre
Alex Pegdan and Frank Palangio have registered
under the fictitious name act as ownners
of Squirrel Hill Film Co.
Buster Crabbe's "Aqua Parade" played
the Gardens here May 11 thi-ough May 19.
. . .
Chartered busses carried Crabbe fans here
Bob
from various points in the area
Finkel, son of exhibitor Bill Finkel, will be
a partner with Bill Eythe in Mars, Inc., a
new theatrical organization on the west coast.
Eythe has named the company after his home
towTi, Mars, Pa. . . . Lou Gilbert, ill for a long
period, returned from Florida and he is back
on the job managing the downtowai Warner.
A picture in a local paper showed Dave
Hadburg, manager of the Hazelwood. and his
wife, and Jake Soltz of the Rhumba, off the
Florida coast after bagging several sailfish
Rivoli in Altoona presented "The
Eternal Return," first French language picture
ever shown in the city. An Altoona Film
Art club presentation, performances were for
the benefit of the Altoona Civic Symphony
. . . Fire Chief WilUam McFadden, 'Wheeling,
W. 'Va., assisted in exploiting "Crimes of
Carelessness," fire prevention film, shown at
the State.
Sam Fineberg of Alexander Theatre Supply
is a member of Mayor Lawrence's committee
for a cleaner Pittsbui-gh.
Ray Mervis of the local Mervis Bros. Theatres
and MoUye Bloom of Reading are engaged
. . . Tex Ritter made appearances at
the Roosevelt. Republic, and the Pi-ince. Ambridge
Lyle Harding, manager of Warners'
. . . Sheridan Square, East Liberty, is vacationing
in Florida ... An earned income
tax rate of one-half of 1 per cent was effective
May 1 at NantyGlo.
Lancaster, Ohio Broad and Palace
Awaits Gala 'Wyoming' Premiere
LANCASTER, OHIO—This Fairfield county
seat will be in the nation's cinematic spotlight
May 22-25 when the world premiere
of 20th Century-Pox's "Green Grass of
Wyoming" will be held at the 1,000-seat Palace
and 500-seat Broad, both owned by Leo
Kessel.
Lancaster is set to celebrate as a community
as it has never celebrated before. The
program, in fact, will get under way almost
a week before the premiere with the selection
of a "world premiere queen" but the real
celebration will not move under full steam
until Saturday (22). On that day Boy Scouts,
Girl Scouts, Campfire Girls, Cub Scouts and
bands will parade as a preliminary to a soapbox
exhibition race at historic Main hill.
Forty derbyists will compete. That night
the queen will be crowned in ceremonies to
be climaxed by a fireworks display. The
queen and her two escorts will be chosen in
final judging at the Palace May 19.
CEREMONIES AT BALL GAME
Sunday

CLEVELAND
Leo
IJarry Henderson, manager of the Lorain-
Fulton in Cleveland for almost 20 years,
has resigned. Charles Rice moves over from
the Jennings to succeed him and Johir Urbansky
jr. takes over at the Jennings .
Kolb and Martin Blum are
. .
now proud possessors
of gold life membership cards to
lATSE Local 160. Kolb has just completed
his 25th year as a member of the executive
board, while Blum, a lawyer and former active
projectionist, has rendered legal and advisory
service over a long period, both as state representative
and in the private practice of
law.
Sigmund Clayman, Warner head shipper,
made a good showing in the Republican primary
for state senate, but not quite enough.
He polled 11,056 votes . . . Allen Shaw, film
salesman, has changed his address from
COMPLETE EQUIPMENT for
THEATRES and DRIVE-INS
Lowest Prices
•
THE - CAR
SPEAKER
SYSTEMS
New exclusive
arrangement
guarantees
excellent
reproduction
IDEAL CHAIRS
|ty including the great
^' great new Slide-Bcrck
STRONG PROJECTION LAMPS
including the sensational
new 70-ampere Mogul.
•
CENTRUY PROJECTORS
and SOUND SYSTEMS
•
24-HOUR PROJECTION and
SOUND SERVICE
v/RiTE FOR rhi:i: literature
THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO.
Al Boudouris, Manager
TOLEDO 2, OHIO: 109 Michigan, AD. 8511
DETROIT 26, MICH.: 515 Charlevoix Bldg.:
CA. 4319
CLEVELAND, OHIO: 921 Guardian Bldg.:
SU. 4680
Screen Guild to Film Classics . . . Akron goes
on daylight saving time as result of last
week's elections, thus following the footsteps
of other large Ohio cities.
Norman Levin, who suffered a slight stroke
last August while attending the ITOO convention
at Cedar Point, and his family have
retui-ned from a stay in California. Although
greatly improved in health. Levin does not
plan to get back into business yet. At the
time of his illness he was local Republic
branch manager.
"Duel in the Sun," which played a successful
six-week run at Loew's StiUman just a
year ago, will return for a regular-price engagement
at Loew's State starting May 20.
According to local SRO sales representative
Leonai'd Mishkind, the picture has outgrossed
"Spellbound" and "Since You Went Away,"
former Selznick boxoffice hits . . . Louis
Kaufman, Warner home office official, was
a guest of the theatre department during the
past week.
"The Iron Curtain," 20th-Fox featiu^e film
dealing with the Soviet spy system in Canada,
opened at Warner's Hipp>odrome Wednesday
(12). To date Manager Eddie Miller has received
only one protest and that was via telephone
by an anonymous woman. The 20th-
Pox exchange reports that objections to its
showing have been made by the American-
Soviet Friendship league.
The distaff side of the news:
MoUye Davis,
MGM cashier, last week became the aimt of
twin girls born to her sister . . . Blanche
Knobloch Brent, RKO booker and a member
of the RKO front office force the last four
and one-half years, resigned to devote all of
her time to her family . . . Toledo was represented
on Filmrow last week by Nat Charnas
and J. A. Beidler jr. . . Leo Jones of Upper
Sandusky was also in town.
Dick Wright, Warner district manager, arranged
with television station WEWS for the
Variety and Uptown theatres to participate in
a Sohio sponsored talent quest. Both theatres
will hold elimination contests every Friday
night for fom' consecutive weeks. Each week's
winner will get a television tryout at the station,
and the final winner will get an allexpense-paid
trip to New York. Sohio will
plug the shows at the two theatres in its
regular radio news programs . . . Robert
Knepton, Warner contract manager, returned
from a home office conference in New York.
Bill Shartin and Jack Gertz, heads of The-
WAHOO
America's Finest Screen Game
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT CO.. 831 S. WABASH AVE.. CHICAGO
atrical Enterprises, who last week opened a
Cincinnati branch office with Harry Young
in charge, have completed arrangements to
open another branch in Pittsburgh. They are
distributors of ZIP-O, children matinee promotion,
a merchant cooperative drive-in attendance
booster and other theatre promotions.
Variety Club members, their wives and children
were guests of Republic Pictures at the
Variety Club Satuixiay noon to meet "Wild"
Bill Elliott, Republic star playing at the Arena
with Jim Eskew's rodeo show. J. J. Houlihan,
Republic local manager, did the honors.
Guests attended the rodeo show in the afternoon
. . . It's news when J. S. Jossey of Hygienic
Productions is in town.
It took Howard Beif's 82-year-old mother
to convince his partner Perc Essick, who is
airplane shy, to fly from Miami to Bermuda
. . . Word comes from Scoville, retired member
of the ScoviUe, Essick & Reif circuit,
that while he likes his new home in Tucson,
he'd like to hear from the boys back home.
His address is 3806 Calle de Soto, Tucson,
Ariz.
Merle Sandler, son of David Sandler of
Theatrecraft Corp., manufacturer of Mobiltone
In-car speakers, and Herbert Abraham
have formed General Theatre Equipment Co.
with a warehouse at 2417 Prospect Ave. to buy
and seU used theatre equipment.
George Davis of Wellsville, entirely recovered
from a recent illness, was a Filmrow
visitor . . Other visitors: John J. Huebner,
.
Marion; Peter Wellman, Girard; Louis Eich,
Martins Ferry; F. D. Krichbaum, Rittman
. . . Fred Scheuermann, Co-op booker, has
come out against the annual spring housecleaning
practice. Reason is because his wife
was a stepladder casualty, suffering a resultant
broken ankle.
Bert Schoonmaker, Toledo theatre owner,
reports that he is readying his Michigan
summer resort for a Memorial day opening
. . . P. E. Essick of the Scoville, Essick &
Reif circuit, and his wife have returned
from an extended vacation that included
Key West, Fla., and Hot Springs, Ark. . . .
U-I has a championship roller skater. He's
Richar Rasgaitis, booking clerk, who's out to
win the novice men's national figure title.
He finished in second place in last year's
state meet and has a good chance to finish
first
this year.
P. J. Wood, ITOO secretary, in a recent
bulletin, urges all members to show the
free short subject, "Thanks America," distributed
by 20th-Fox. It depicts the plight
of Italy and appreciation of its people for
America's help . . . Commenting on a circular
letter sent to all exhibitors by the
National Council of American-Soviet Friendship
urging them not to show "The Iron
Cm-tain," Wood says: "We have not seen
the picture and have no definite knowledge
of the claims and contentions set forth by
the council in its letter, so it is up to each
and every exhibitor to decide for himself
whether or not he will show the picture."
10 p. m. Curfew Voted
COLUMBIANA, OHIO—This eastern
Ohio
village has adopted a 10 p. m. curfew for
children under 16.
84 BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948

. . Milton
. . Dick
. . Sam
Eddie Murphy Named
SRO Man in Detroit
DETROIT—Edwin C. "Eddie" Murphy,
veteran Michigan film salesman, has been
named branch manager of Selznick Releasing
Organization, with offices in the Dinovan
Bldg. He replaces Eugene Alexander,
who resigned to go with the Chase Bag Co.
Until recently Murphy was with Paramount.
He has been a salesman in the Michigan
territory for over 26 years, for a long time
with RKO. He was in theatre operation for
a period during the 1920's.
Leaders Are Too Short,
Ohio Censors Complain
COLUMBUS—The Ohio Censor board is
complaining that in many instances censorship
leaders now in circulation are less than
the required tlii-ee feet in length, and calls
attention to the fact that such practice makes
exhibitors liable to a fine.
In view of the fact that the exchanges buy
and attach these leaders to the films, the department
of censorship recognizes the fact
that the exhibitor is helpless in the matter
and it has no desire to take advantage of any
violations by exhibitors, the department said.
In order to correct the situation the Independent
Theatre Owners of Ohio, at the request
of the censorship department, has
asked exhibitors to keep a record for a period
of four weeks and report results to P. J.
Wood, ITOO secretary.
Tornado Twists Around
Warner Outdoor Theatre
CLARKSBURG, W. VA.—The tornado which
struck West Milford, killing four persons and
injuring 70, did no damage to the nearby
Warner Skyline outdoor theatre which is
under construction. The twister hop-skipped
through Harrison county, destroying churches,
stores and other building and left 400
persons homeless. Only tornado rubble was
foimd aroimd the new drive-in theatre,
just off West Milford road. U.S. Route 19.
Rain, day after day, has delayed final construction
of the outdoor theatre which is
being completed for Mr. and Mrs. Charles E.
Warner.
Increases House Capacity
BERRIEN SPRINGS, MICH. — Seating
capacity of the Berrien Springs Theatre is
being increased from 250 to 325 by extending
the rear wall 30 feet. New heating and
ventilating systems also are being installed.
Manager John Eisner reported.
Western Star Pays
City Income Tax
Sharon, Pa.—Tex Hitter, film cowboy,
paid an income tax to the city when he
made hLs recent personal appearance
here. The amount of the tax was under
$2, but the collection established a precedent.
Edward Finucane and James
Elliott, tax consultants to the city reported
the singing cowboy even gave them
his autograph.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15. 1948
CINCINNATI
Tohn Vlachos, exhibitor in Harrison, Ohio,
will be married June 17 to Anne Zeppas,
of Wheeling, W. Va. After a honeymoon,
they will live in North College Hill, Ohio. She
is a niece of the exhibitor operating the Rex
Theatre in Wheeling in partnership with
Paramount. Vlachos and Lou Wiethe recently
acquired controlling interest in the Park-In
Theatre, Mount Healthy, Ohio. Vlachos is
vice-president of the corporation.
J. H. Davidson, Lynchburg, Ohio, anticipates
having his new di'ive-in, the CCC Auto
Theatre in Jasper Mills, Ohio, open approximately
June 1. Davidson operates
houses in Georgetown, Ost)ome and Peebles,
and last year opened the Roselawn Auto Theatre
in Allensburg . E. Cohen, district
manager for RKO, spent several days
this week in the Cmcinnati exchange. The
local RKO staff had an enjoyable day Saturday,
May 15, at Mount Airy forest, where they
betook themselves for an afternoon of outdoor
sports and a picnic.
J. Pennington is the new manager of the
Majestic in Columbus, replacing Lou HoUeb,
who is now operating the Imperial in Zanesville.
The Majestic is a White-Libson operation
George Joseph and Irving Wormser
. . . of the Columbia home office spent some time
here this week. Also, Sam Galanty, district
manager, whose headquarters are in Washington.
. . . The
Harold Rullman, Dayton salesman for Columbia,
is convalescing from an operation at
the Good Samaritan hospital . . . Gene
Hazelton, representative in Columbus for National
Theatre Supply, sold a new air conditioning
unit to W. C. Pullin for the New
Linden Theatre, Colimibus. It is now being
National Theatre Supply is also
installed . . .
installing new air conditioning in the Palace,
Lancaster, operated by Leo Kessel
Cruise-In, Eaton, Ohio, began operations
May 1. This drive-in was built by Lou Clemmer.
Herb Oclis, is handling booking and
buying. Equipment was installed by National
Theatre Supply.
. . . Other
Bob Harrell, Cleves, Ohio, made his first
trip around the exchanges in sometime. He has
just returned from Florida. Also seen on the
Row this week was Pete Smith, Bellevue. Ky.,
who has been sick for some time
out-of-town exhibitors at the exchanges were
Sante Macci, Greenville, Ohio; Max Matz.
Bluefield, W. Va.; Ray Holland, Jeffersonville,
Ohio; Gene Custer, Charleston, W. Va.;
Floyd Pi'ice, Newark, Ohio; Mrs. R. Thomas,
Parkersburg, W. Va.; Robert Anthony, St.
Paris, and H. McHaffie, Marmet, W. Va.
Hugh MacKenzie, publicity representative
of RKO, went to St. Louis for the weekend
to work with Terry Turner, national director
of exploitation, and Harrry Reiners, eastern
supervisior, on the world premiere of "Fighting
Father Dunne," which opened May 11.
Myrna Dell and Pat O'Brien were on hand
from Hollywood.
Jay M. Goldberg and his wife visited Goldberg's
parents. Mr. and Mrs. Lee L. Goldberg,
for a week, and then returned to the west
coast, where he is assistant west coast editor
of a film trade paper.
New air conditioning equipment is being
installed in the Kearse Theatre, Charleston,
W. Va., at an approximate cost of $75,000. It
. . .
will be completed by June 1, according
Roland
to
Ronald E. Coleman, manager
Patrick has acquired the Look Theatre, West
Alexandria, Ohio, from J. T. Gates. He began
operation April 16 . . . Joe Rosen, manager
of the local 20th-Fox branch, has added an
additional salesman to his staff. He is
Charles O'Neill, who was transferred here
from Philadelphia.
Lawrence Davis, who operates theatres in
Hazard, Garrett, and Neon, Ky., has returned
to Hazard from his home in Florida and will
remain here until fall . . . Ted Minsky of the
Warner Cleveland office has appointed Bud
Gilliam as head booker to replace Marvin
Samuelson, and Larry Greenberg as assistant
booker Breslin. booker at the U-I
.
exchange, is resigning May 15 to assume
position of head booker at the Eagle Lion
branch.
Cooperative Theatres of Pittsburgh has
added seven accounts, covering 13 theatres,
in West Virginia and expects to open its office
in Cincinnati soon . Levin, owner of
the Sherwood Drive-In at Dayton, expects to
open his Star Dust Drive-In at Springfield
on or about May 15.
'Dream Girl' Is Selected
In Springfield Promotion
SPRINGFIELD—Susan Krapp. 18-year-old
Springfield high school senior, is this city's
"Dream Girl." Selected in finals on the Regent
Theatre stage, she will receive a twoweek
trip to Hollywood this summer with all
expenses paid by the Springfield Civic Theatre
and Retail Merchants council, co-sponsors
of the contest, in co-operation with the
Regent-State Corp. She also will play the
lead of "Dream Girl" in the May production
of the Civic Theatre.
Pittsburgh Shuns AAA;
No Cases in Seven Years
PITTSBURGH—Seven years have passed
since a theatre complaint was filed at the
local office of the American Ai'bitration Ass'n.
Eight years ago, headquarters of AAA were
opened in the Investment Bldg. and three
cases were filed and heard. Plaintiff exhibitors
"lost" their cases, and paid attorney fees
and transcription costs. The final case
registered here was dated April 25, 1941. At
least four secretaries and clerks have been
employed at the office since it was opened.
Gordon Bliss is in charge today.
MADE RIGHT BY MEN WH<
KNOW HOW!
'NEW YORK
245 VVeit 55Hi St.
LOS ANGELES
I
1574 W.
Woshington
CHICAGO
1327S. Wobosh
Spjuuaf
TRAILERS
SEND US YOUR
NEXT ORDER/
3 COMPLETELY EQUIPPED PLANTS
85

. . . Mr.
. . . Henry
. ,
—
—
—
—
Check Shows Sponsored Programs
Outdraw All Juvenile Competition
CLEVELAND—The better films committee
of the Lakewood PTA last week celebrated
the conclusion of its second successful year
of sponsoring Saturday children's matinees
at the Hilliard Square Theatre.
Members of the PTA members; Martin W.
Essex, superintendent of Lakewood schools;
principals of all of the Lakewood junior and
senior high schools; Fred Holzworth. manager
of the Hilliard Square Theatre, and
John J. Houlihan and Jules Livingston, Republic
branch manager and salesman, attended
a luncheon marking the end of the
second year of the shows. The success of
the project was evidenced by a report of a
sm-vey made by Manager Holzworth, covering
three successive Saturdays and three
successive Sundays. It showed that juvenile
attendance was bigger on all three Saturdays
at the Hilliard Square Theatre, where the
programs had the support of the PTA, than
the attendance at all six other Lakewood
theatres combined.
"This proves." Holzworth pointed out, "that
the Hilliard Square, with special children's
matinees, reached out into neighborhoods of
other theatres not showing children's specially
selected programs. It also shows the power
of the PTA and the schools.
Holzworth reported that on the three Saturdays
surveyed, February 7, 14 and 21, the
Hilliard Square played to 1,636 children while
1,554 children attended all of the other six
Lakewood theatres. The Sunday survey,
February 8, 15 and 22. tells a slightly different
story and indicates that when there
is no special program, childi-en remain in
their own domain. The Sunday figures of
the survey show attendance of 1,193 children
at the Hilliard Square, and a total of
2,136 at the other six theatres.
Continued cooperation was pledged by PTA
and school leaders. "We must not lose sight
of the fact that such a program must be
commercially sound in order to be continued,"
said Martin 'W. Essex, superintendent of
Lakewood schools.
Switches to Flesh Shows
DETROIT—The Broadway Capitol Theatre,
3,500 seat house operated by the United
Detroit Theatre circuit, switched over to a
stage policy featuring name bands Friday
(7 1, opening with Stan Kenton.
This is the first time that regular stage
shows have played the Broadway Capitol in
about ten years and the first time it has
been adopted by a downtown house in about
two years. 'With the definite switch over,
Horace Heidt has been booked in next with
the Harmonicats and Ella Fitzgerald to follow.
400-Seater Planned
HARRISVILLE, MICH.—A 400-seat theatre
is to be erected here by H. V. Rule of
Houghton Lake. The building will be of cement
blocks, 40 by 120 feet.
Build in Sanford, Mich.
SANFORD, MICH. — The Maticka Construction
Co. will build a $70,000 theatre here
for operation by J. H. Methner, operator of
the Gem in Beaverton.
From the BOXOFFICE Files
• • •
(T'wenty Years Ago)
pRANK LORENZEN, well-known to the
older men around the Paramount exchange
in Detroit, is now in the flower business,
owning the La Salle flower shop, catering
to film exchanges and the theatrical profession
Jake Schreiber of the Blackstone
. . . in Detroit has decided to keep his house at
116 Michigan Ave. open all night. The theatre
adjoins Detroit's leading drug store,
which also keeps open all night. The Comique
Theatre on Broadway, owned by Henry
S. Koppin. is also open all night.
* * *
Art Elliott of Detroit is looking forward
to May 14-21. the dates for the annual Film
Booking Offices convention, at which time
the company will announce 60 new features
and 72 short subjects for the season .
Frank Do-wTiey, MGM manager in Detroit, is
back from a sales conference at Pittsburgh
and Mrs. W. S. Butterfield of Favorite
Film Co. have retiu'ned from a motor
trip to New 'Vork.
* * *
Miss Katherine Jones and Thomas Jones
of Portsmouth. Ohio, are starting construction
of a $15,000 theatre in Waverly, Ohio
. . . Harold Wright has opened a picture
show in the building formerly occupied by
the T. H. Wright store in Georgetown, Ky.
Guenther and D. R. Davies will
construct a theatre in the rear of the present
building on Playhouse Square, Cleveland,
at a cost of about $125,000. Entrance will
be from Euclid avenue. It will be opened
about September 1 as the Cinema Theatre.
* • •
Al Ruttenberg, with Siegel & Feigenson,
proprietors of the Iris Theatre in Detroit,
have taken a lease on a new house under
construction at Mount Elliot and Oliver
streets, Detroit. It will seat 600 .. . Fred H.
Newman. 16, son of C. C. Newman, proprietor
of the New Strand in Sturgis, Mich., was
killed in a plane crash.
Altec Installations
CLEVELAND—Altec Lansing's Voice of the
Theatre horn systems have been purchased
by the following theatres: Maryland, Cleveland:
Rankin, Bridgeville, Pa.; Northside
and South Hills, Pittsburgh, Pa.; DuBois. Du-
Bois. Pa.; Ready and Riviera, Niles, Mich.;
Delia, Roxy and Gordon, Flint, Mich.; Capitol
and Center, Owasso, Mich.; Liberty and
Larce, Benton Harbor, Mich.; Caldwell. St.
Joseph, Mich.; New, Middlesboro, Ky.; Joy
Marion, Ohio; Rex screening room, Louisville,
Ky.; Family and Croswell, Adrian. Mich.;
Bay and Center, Bay City, Mich.; Mecca,
Saginaw, Mich.; Irving and Palmer Park.
Detroit, Mich., and Norwood. Norwood. Ohio.
Students See Spanish Film
STATE COLLEGE, PA. — "Numataras,"
Spanish language film, was exhibited at Warner's
State recently, the presentation being
in cooperation with the modern languages
department of Pennsylvania State college.
'Prefty' and Tarzan'
Pittsburgh Leaders
PITTSBURGH—"Sitting P»retty" and "Tarzan
and the Mermaids" were leaders at the
Harris and Warner, respectively. Otherwise,
business was slow.
(Average is 100)
Fulton Old Los Angeles (Rep); Bill cmd Coo
(Rep) 85
Harris—Silting Pretty ( 20th-Fox) 125
Penn—The 'Sainted' Sisters (Para) 85
Ritz—The Bride Goes Wild (MGM), 3rd d. t. wk... yO
Senator—Foreign Correspondent (Masterpieces):
Trade Winds (Masterpieces), reissues 90
Stanley—To the Victor (WB) 80
Warner—Tarzan and the Mermaids (RKO) 105
Detroit Experiences Dull Week;
'Electra' Out After Five Weeks
DETROIT—Business was slightly off last
week, but was somewhat balanced by a good
Sunday. Cloudy weather kept crowds off the
highways and directed them into the show
houses. The roadshow date of "Mourning
Becomes Electra" ended the Cinema after
five weeks. Detail for week ending May 6:
Adams—state of the Union (MGM) 100
Broadway Capitol Sahara (Col), Destroyer (Col),
reissues - 85
Cinema Mourning Becomes Electra (RKO), 5th
wk 100
Downtown—The Overlcnders (U-1); Cobra Strikes
(EL) 90
Fox—Gentleman's Agreement (20th-Fox), 2nd wk.-.lOC
Michigan The Lady From Shanghai (Col); Madonna
oi the Desert (Rep) 120
Palms-State Duel in the Sun (SRO); Campus
Sleuth (Mono) 95
Paradise The Woman From Tangier (Col), 2nd
run, plus stdge show 100
(Jnited Artists—I Hememher Mama (RKO) 110
Cleveland Grosses Lower
With Outdoors Competing
CLEVELAND—Good weather, outdoor interests,
baseball and politics proved heavy
theatre competition last week, with only one
of the four new pictures on parade making
a good showing, ".?tate of the Union" at the
State. Holdovers made a better showing.
Allen—The Miracle of the Bells (RKO), 2nd wk 80
Hippodrome Winter Meeting (WB) 85
Lake—Sitting Pretty (20th-Fox), 3rd d. t. wk 115
Ohio—Are You With It? (U-I) 105
Palace—Tarzan and the Mermaids (RKO) 100
State—State of the Union (MGM) 120
Stillman—The Big Clock (Para), 2Tid wk., moveover
125
"State of Union.' Mills Bros.
Best Lures in Cincinnati
CINCINNATI—The Mills Bros, on stage at
the Albee brought the patrons in in quantity,
and the week's showing was very good. On
the screen was "That's My Man." "State of
the Union" at the Capitol topped the straight
picture programs, with second honors going
to "Tarzan and the Mermaids" at the Grand.
Both remained for additional weeks.
Albee—That's My Man (Rep), plus stage show 220
Capitol—State of the Union (MGM) 150
Grand—Tarzan and the Mermaids (RKO) 130
Keith's—Song of My Heart (Mono) 70
Lyric Unconquered (Para), 2nd d. t. wk 90
Palace—Winter Meeting CWB) 80
S'hubert—Sitting Pretty (20th-Fox), 6th d. t. wk 90
Old Theatre Bows Out
PITTSBURGH—An East Liberty landmark,
the old Family Theatre, 6113 Penn Ave., is
being revamped into a modern dress shop.
Formerly known as the Alhambra. the theatre
was one of the original motion picture
houses in the east end district, according
to J. O. "Jack" Hooley. veteran theatre manager.
Prior to becoming a film house it was
operated as a vaudeville theatre around 45
years ago. Since 1929 the Family had been
operated by the Harris interests.
86 BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

!
day
Developments in Drive-In Field
BUTLER. PA.—A Butler township theatre
licensing ordinance of 1922 failed to include
the modern drive-in theatres. The other day
owners of the Butler Drive-In on Route 68
won their appeal from a summary conviction
before a justice of the peace in a decision
handed down by Judge William B.
Purvis. The ovyners. Dr. R. B. Herrick, Meadville:
Aven B. Caldwell jr.. Evans City, and
William L. Shultz. Foxburg, upon conviction
were assessed the usual fine of $100 and costs,
which they declined to pay and took an appeal
to common pleas court, wimiing the
action.
Last October the outdoor theatre owners
made a written application for a license for
a hall used for theatre performances, picture
shows, etc., and inclosed their check for
$50, as cost for such license. The township
refused the check and stated that drive-in
theatre license would be classified under another
section of the quarter-of-a-century old
ordinance, "For all other kinds of shows
$10 a day."
DETROIT—Work started a few days ago
on construction of the Dearborn Drive-Ii.
Theatre, to be operated by the Ross Theatre
Corp. House will be located in Dearborn
township on Ford road at Kinloch avenue.
The theatre will handle 1,000 cars. It was
originally projected as either the Skyline or
the Starlight Drive-In. but the Dearborn
name has been finally adopted instead. It
is being erected by Jack Wagner as general
contractor. RCA is installing the sound system,
in-a-car speakers, Brenkert projectors
and a 52x40-foot screen. The cost is estimated
at $150,000.
The project will be personally managed
by James H. Ross, a newcomer in show
business, who is president and general manager
of the corporation. Booking will be
handled by Allen Dowzer of Mutual Theatres.
Opening has been scheduled for July 1.
ELKINS, W. VA.—The new Elkins Drive-In,
located one mile from here on the Belington-
Elkins highway, opened the evening of May 6.
Bretsel Lang and Harold Talbott, ex-service
men, are proprietors, and Gray Barker is
the film booker-buyer. DeVry equipments,
including in-a-car speakers, are featured.
ALTOONA, PA.—Blatt Bros, drlve-in on
Route 36 is in the township outside of the
city and has been fined for operating Sunevening
shows where there has been no
referendum on the issue. Township commissioners
plan to prevent any Sunday entertainments.
BROWNSVILLE. PA.—I>ugan and Sharp
Enterprises have plans for opening a drivein
between Uniontown and Point Marion.
Lindley B. Dugan states the drive-in will be
known as the York Run Open Air Theatre.
A third party to the lead is M. Danko, used
car dealer.
FAIRMONT, W. VA.—The Sunset Drive-
In, remodeled and improved, opened for a
second session May 9. Located at Meadowbrook
on route 19, the outdoor theatre has
a new screen structure and in-a-car speakers.
VANDERGRIPT, PA.—A drive-in is being
constructed between here and Leechburg by
William McMahon, Apollo, and Harold A. Lee,
Vandergrift. It is expected to be open by
midsimuner.
MEADVILLE, PA.—The Airway Drive-In
at the intersection of routes 19 and 322 reopened
for the new season May 7. Formerly
operated with central speakers, the Airway
now is equipped with in-a-car speakers.
thea-
MANNINGTON, W. VA.—A drive-in
tre is planned near here by E. C. WUson.
WB Vogue in Cleveland
To Celebrate Birthday
CLEVELAND — Warners' Vogue, de luxe
Shaker Heights house, will celebrate its first
birthday anniversary the week of May 23.
Participating will be all of the merchant
members of the Moreland-Center Ass'n who,
during the anniversary week will include with
every purchase a numbered coupon entitling
the holder to participate in the drawing for
a $300 cash prize. The merchants are also
contributing gifts as birthday present to
lucky number holders.
J. Knox Strachan, head of Warner Theatres
publicity and exploitation department,
is in charge of the birthday party. In addition"*ld
cash and merchandise prizes for the
grownups, children will receive balloons and
there will be a sneak preview during the
celebration week. Bob Lytel, manager of the
Vogue, is aiding Strachan in the promotion.
ATTENTION DRIVE-IN THEATRES!
IT
Builds Your Weekly Gross
Builds Your Weekly Concessions
Advertises Your Drive-In Theatre in your community and surrounding
territory
Costs You Nothing
Serving Drive-ins in Cleveland, Akron. Canton, Dayton. Toledo. Pittsburgh
Also all Theatre Promotions, including ZIP-O, outstanding Kiddy Promotion, at no cost to you.
THEATRICAL
Write for particulars
ENTERPRISES
402-3-4 Film Bldg., Cleveland. O. 1632 Central Parkway. Cincinnati, O.
ATM Splits Stale
Into Six Districts
DETROIT—The makeup of the six districts
and various divisions into which the state
has been divided for organizational purposes
was armounced here by Charles W. Snyder,
executive secretary of Allied Theatres of
Michigan.
By counties, the makeup of the various
areas is:
District 1—Division A, Wayne; B, Macomb,
St. Clair and Lapeer; C, Oakland, Genesee
and Livingston: D, Monroe and Washtenaw.
District 2—Division A, Ingham, Jackson,
Hillsdale and Lenawee: B, Barry, Branch, Calhoim,
Eaton, Kalamazoo and St. Jcseph; C,
Allegan, Berrien, Cass and Van Buren.
District 3—Division A, Huron, Sanilac and
Tuscola; B, Arenac, Bay and Galdwin; C,
Midland, Saginaw and Shiawassee.
District 4—Division A, Clinton, Gratiot,
Ionia and Montcalm: B, Isabella, Mecosta,
Newaygo and Oceana: C, Kent, Mtiskegon
and Ottawa.
District 5—A, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix,
Cheboygan, Emmet, Montmorency, Otsego
and Preeque Isle; B, Alcona, Crawford, Iosco,
Kalkaska, Missaukee, Ogemaw, Oscoda and
Roscommon; C, Benzie, Clare, Grand Traverse,
Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason,
Osceola and Wexford.
District 6—A, Alger, Chippewa, Luce and
Mackinac and Schoolcraft; B, Delta, Dickinson,
Marquette and Menominee; C. Baraga,
Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw and
Ontonagon.
Theatre in Baby Contest
UNIONTOWN, PA.—The Manos here has
entered into a cooperative advertising campaign
with the Cover studio in an announced
first annual pinup baby contest, with $1,000
in prizes offered. Other merchants also are
tied in to the plan. Children are photographed
at Cover's, entry pinup photo is
awarded free and at the end of the contest
prizes will be awarded on the stage of the
Manos. Contest ends July 3.
Pitt Adds Film Courses
PITTSBURGH—New courses in motion pictures
have been added to the speecJi department
of the University of Pittsbiu^h. The
courses, directed by Buell Whitehill jr.. head
of the speech department, are planned to
meet the need in television technique. The
course includes film production. WTiting, filming
and editing the students' compositions.
Theatre Being Modernized
SEWICKLEY, PA.—The Sewickley here is
being newly decorated by the Novelty Scenic
Studios, New York. William R. Wheat III.
proprietor, has improved the theatre front
with installation of new aluminum attraction
frames.
Theatre Closed for Renovations
WELLSBURG, W. VA.—The Alpine here is
closed for two months for complete renovations,
decorations and installation of various
new equipments and fixtures. A marquee
is to be erected, according to Charles Anderson,
who directs the Alpine circuit. C. E.
Picard, Buffalo contractor, is in charge of
the modernization program.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 ME
86-A
f

. . Also
CINCINNATI More Communiiies LOUISVILLE
gen Cohen, manager of the Telenews Strand
here, has been transferred to his home
town, Cleveland, where he will manage the
dowiitown Telenews. He has been with Telenews
Theatres five years and was assistant
chief barker for the Cincimrati Variety Club
in 1947. He is a board member at present
and intends to continue his activities with
Variety Club in Cleveland. His successor is
Jack Silverthorn. who was formerly with
Telenews in Detroit.
Jim Ambrose, manager of Warners, was
called to Pittsburgh to attend a meeting of
managers and district managers . . . Bob
Laws, Cincinnati and Dayton salesman for
20th-Fox, had a sick spell last week. He is
back at his duties but will imdergo a thorough
physical checkup to determine the
Milton Yassenoff,
source of his trouble . . .
Columbus, will attend an Allied convention in
Denver.
Arthur Greenblatt, sales manager of Screen
Guild Productions, spent several days in the
city with Manager Ed Salzberg . . . J. G.
Teeter, Cincinnati sei-vice engineer for Altec,
attended a television school in New York
. . . F. H. Riffle, Altec field supervisor in
Louisville, who has been away from his territoi-y,
has returned to Louisville.
Arnold Berger of the drive-in at Montgomery.
Ohio, stopped in on his trip through
the territory for Phil Smith EnteiTJrises . . .
Ralph Morley has been promoted from booker
to salesman at Eagle Lions a,nd will work
in the Columbus territory. Dick Breslin
will take over the booking duties . . . The
new drive-in at Bowling Green, Ohio, was
opened May 11. Messrs. Flowers and Palmer
are operating this theatre. Equipment was
furnished by Mid-West Theatre Supply Co.
. . . H. B. Enook of Midwest attended a
meeting in Chicago with executives of RCA
Victor. Ray Stimipert, sales representative,
accompanied him.
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wyrick, Carlisle, Ky.,
will return from their vacation in Florida
May 28.
A new theatre is under construction in
Prestonburg, Ky. A three-man corporation is
backing this project . . . Midwest Theatre
Supply will open its Indianapolis branch
some time this month. J. Charles Clickner,
formerly with Gerbar Theatre Supply, will
be Indianapolis representative for Midwest.
Charles Humston of Lawrenceburg, Ky.,
enjoyed a little respite from work at Churchill
Downs, Louisville, and Paul Russell, Somerset,
Ohio, took time off for some fishing at
Buckeye Lake, Ohio. Harry and Pied Wheeler,
Gallipolis, Ohio, closed their Gallipolis
Theatre for considerable remodeling. The
house will not be reopened until late in August.
Crescent Refrigerates
BOWLING GREEN, KY.—Refrigeration air
conditioning equipment is being installed by
the Crescent Amusement Co. in the Capitol
Theatre here, J. P. Masters, manager, reported.
He said similar equipment has been
received for the Diamond Theatre, but that
it will not be installed until Crescent remodels
the house. The circuit is planning to make
over the Diamond for first run use.
Levy Ticke! Taxes
PITTSBURGH—First wage tax in Allegheny
county has been levied by McKees
Rocks school district, the rate being onehalf
cent on each dollar earned.
Conemaugh township school district will
be the first political subdivision in Somerset
county to levy a special 1 per cent income
tax, the levy to become effective July 5.
Erie school board has passed a one-half
of 1 per cent tax on all earned income, effective
July 1.
North Union township school district
(near Uniontown\ on July 5 will impose a
10 per cent tax on admissions, one mill
mercantile tax, $50 on each jukebox-pinball
machine, manufacturer's tax of two mills
and one-half mill on gross sales, five cents
per ton on all deep mine coal now unassessed,
ten cents per ton tax on all strip
mine coal, and five cents per ton on all coke
production. The new levies are exclusive of
the 35-mill property tax and the $5 per
capita tax.
PITTSBURGH—Additional work burden
imposed on the city treasurer's office as a
result of the new 10 per cent admission tax
calls for adding two more persons to the
present staff of six auditor-investigators. The
positions pay $3,000 a .vear and the new jobs
will add $4,000 to the pay roll for the balance
of the year.
UNIONTOWN, PA.—Local school district
has imposed two new levies—a two-cent
amusement tax on each 25 cents of admission
and an increase from $5 to $10 on the
per capita tax—for meeting its 1948-49 proposed
budget set at $1,490,213.14.
MOUNT PLEASANT, PA.—The borough
school board will impose the following taxes:
two mills on each dollar of volume of gross
receipts of business transacted by retail
vendors or dealers, including places of amusement.
Effective date is July 1.
MOUNT UNION—The borough and school
district each have approved a 1 per cent
wage and profits tax, effective July 1.
DORMONT, PA.—A 10
per cent admission
tax is being prepared for enactment.
Outgrows lOOF Building,
Plans to Build Theatre
WHITE CLOUD, MICH.—Construction of
a 350-seat theatre here is being undertaken
by Glenn W. Beach, who has been showing
pictures in the Odd Fellows hall for the last
five years. The new building is to be ready
by September 1.
Benefit Show Staged
BEAVERTON, MICH.—Mr. and Mrs. James
Methner, owners, turned over the Gem Theatre
to the Beaverton Alumni Ass'n for a
benefit show April 8. The program consisted
of "Wyoming" and 20 minutes of highlights
from the .school's basketball games.
Proceeds will be used by the Alumni Ass'n
to light its athletic field.
Jn keeping with a recent trend new product
was brought in to the majority of local
first runs. "Sitting Pretty" opened at the
Rialto and "Winter Meeting" was brought
in to the Mary Anderson. Back to foreign
films was the Scoop with "Shoe-Shine" and
the Strand had "The Smugglers" and "The
Blonde Savage." Holdovers were "The Big
Clock" and "Caged Fury" at the Brown and
"State of the Union" at Loew's. The National
returned to a stage show and film
policy bringing in Spade Cooley and his band
plus a personal appearance of Smiley Burnett,
and "Bush Pilot" on the screen.
F. X. Merkley of the Rialto, Columbia, was
on the Row for the first time in many months
. . . Other visitors: Lyell Webb, Ritz, Burkesville;
Clark Bennett, Valley, TaylorviUe; E. L.
Ornstein, Ornstein Theatres, Marengo, Ind.;
A. N. Miles, Eminence: Louis Pumphery,
Sanders Theatres, Campbellsville; Mr. and
Mrs. Joseph Brauer, Strand, Paoli, Ind.; Bob
Enoch, Elizabethtown Amusement Co.; Walter
L. Campbell, Bell, Ravenna; Oscar Hopper,
Arista, Lebanon; J. V. Snook, LaGrange;
J. T. Kennedy, Stanton.
W. E. Carrell, president of the Falls City
Theatre Equipment Co., returned from an extensive
sales trip through the state . . . Lew
Grofsik, sales manager of the General Register
Co.'s Chicago office, spent several days
here demonstrating new theatre boxoffice
control equipment . in town checking
recent Motiograph projection and sound installations
was J. E. Huckleberry, Motiograph
engineer.
Reports received from exhibitors throughout
various sections of the city and the state,
indicate a slump in boxoffice receipts. In
some instances the decrease was quite noticeable
. . . Delays have been encountered
in the completion of Foster Lane's new Lane
Theatre, Williamsburg, Ky.: and Walter L.
Campbell's Bell Theatre, Ravenna, Ky. Opening
dates on both houses will probably be
pushed back another 30 days.
Word comes from Pineville, Ky., that a
new theatre will be built there to replace the
Gaines which was destroyed by fire several
years ago.
Takes to Phone to Check
On Effectiveness of Ads
WILMINGTON—Joe R.
Murphy, manager
of the Murphy Theatre here, got some page
one publicity with a promotional stimt. He
took to the telephone to see how many persons
knew what picture was playing in his
theatre. He called five Wilmington residents,
offering each two passes if he could
name the picture and star. Only one out of
the five could do it. On the second day Murphy
tried the stunt, four out of five persons
called won passes.
New Marquee in Oxford
"oxford. MICH.—Ray Forman has installed
a new sign and marquee on the Oxford
Theatre. He said other improvements
are being planned.
Armada Theatre Rising
ARMADA, MICH.—Work has started on a
new theatre here. The building is expected
to be ready in September.
86-B
BOXOFFICE :
: May 15, 1948

'Citizen Saint' Is Magnet
At Carnegie Music Hall
PITTSBURGH—"Citizen Saint," produced
by several Pittsburgh area exhibitors, scored
a great success in a dozen exhibitions in
Carnegie Music Hall here last week. Several
thousand people were turned away the final
evening and police had to be sent from the
Oakland district to handle the crowd. F>resent
at the shows and active in the management
of the engagement were Andy Battiston
and Werner Lund. Except for Burton Holmes
travelogs, "Citizen Saint" is the first motion
picture to be presented in Carnegie Masic
Hall in many years.
Bennett-Branch Dispute
Is Settled Amicably
DETROIT—The arbitration action brought
against Ray Branch, operator of the Barry
and Strand theatres in Hastings, by C. W.
Bennett, owner of the Arcade Theatre in
Middleville, has been settled by agreement
before reaching the hearing stage. The agreement
provides that the Branch houses will
play pictures faster. Bennett charged that
delays in showing pictures at Branch's theatres
made it difficult for Middleville to obtain
adequate films.
Award Contract for House
At Camp Campbell, Ky.
HOPKINSVILLE, KY.—Gardner Construction
Co. of Nashville has been awarded a
government contract to build a theatre at
Camp Campbell. Work on the project is expected
to start about May 1. The theatre is
designed to accommodate 1,004 persons and
will be built at a cost of $317,675. No announcement
has been made on the future
status of the wooden wartime-erected theatres
at the camp.
Ground Is Broken in Celina
For Chakeres-Dwyer Job
CELINA, OHIO—The Knowlton Construction
Co. of Bellefontaine has broken ground
for the new Chakeres-Dwyer Theatre here.
The theatre, in the planning stage for several
years, will be a modern functional structure,
fireproof and air conditioned.
Exhibitor Directs Drive
JOHNSTOWN, PA.—Max Bloomberg, area
exhibitor, is Cambria county chairman for
the security loan drive now under way to
promote the sale of U.S. savings bonds. He
is urging a revival of the pay roll savings
plan for employes.
Institute May Show Films
AKRON—The Akron Art Institute is conducting
a poll of its members and others interested
in films to learn whether they want
to see "art" movies on Monday nights during
July and August.
Textileather Head Names Aide
TOLEDO— J. K. Weidig has been appointed
assistant to Jules D. Lippmann, president
of the Textileather Corp., effective June
1. Weidig previously was general manager of
the Zapon-Keratol division of Atlas Powder
Co.
BOXOFFICE :: May 16, 1948
20 Years Ago: Allen
Unwanted for Show
Fiom New England Edition
Bridgeport—An item in the Twenty
Years Ago column of the Bridgeport Post
says: "Matt Saunders, manager of Poll's
Palace, sent two bus loads of vaudeville
performers to the 42nd annual celebration
of the Cupheag club in Stratford
last night. Fred Allen, who was on the
Palace bill, acted as master of ceremonies."
Today Manager Saunders recalls that
after the performance club members
"scolded" him for sending over "that
guy Allen," They didn't just "cotton" to
the actor and told Matt never to let
Allen get on their shows again. Today
they probably couldn't get Allen, the ace
radio comedian. What a difference 20
years can make in show business.
Little Expansion Seen
For Ontario Drive-Ins
From Canadian Edition
TORONTO—Drive-in theatres had a belated
start in eastern Canada because of
war's restrictions on construction and there
were only five in operation in Ontario at
the end of the 1947 season.
With construction and equipment difficulties
continuing, little expansion is in prospect
this year. Two more drive-in projects
have been announced for the Toronto district,
one of these to be built by the Ochs
group of Cleveland who opened the first
drive-in at Toronto last year. Eastern Ontario
may have its first automobile theatres
if two projects go through in Ottawa, but
the latter city is already plainly overseated.
One unit was started late last fall by a group
of nontheatre people for an Ottawa suburb,
but since that time there have been fresh
restrictions on the import of projection and
sound equipment.
The province of Quebec has clamped a complete
ban on the construction of any drivein
theatres. No reason was given for the
decision.
Three of the five drive-ins already open
have been acquired by A. E. Silverwood,
prominent dairyman of London. Ont., who
purchased a controlling interest in the units
at Windsor, London and Stoney Creek. The
drlve-in near St. Catharines, Ont.. is operated
by businessmen of that city and Northeast
Drive-In in Toronto is the property of
the Ochs interests.
The summer season in Ontario is a short
one and this may prove to be a deterrent
on drive-in theatres in the long run.
Bronson Project Readied
BRONSON, MICH.—E. J. "Bob" Pennell is
preparing to start construction of a theatre
on East Chicago street. It will be known as
the Coliseum. Pennell said the project would
cost about $125,000 and that he hopes to have
the theatre open in September.
Thomassy Fails to Win Nomination
MCDONALD. PA.—Fernand A. Thomassy,
local exhibitor, was defeated at the Republican
primary election in his effort to
retain his seat in the general assembly.
Thomassy trailed A. L. Phillips, East Washington
burgess, and John Mazza. Houston,
in the three-man race in Washington county's
first
district.
Percentage Suits
Started in Detroit
DETROIT—Universal, Paramount and
Loew's each filed a separate percentage fraud
action in federal court May 10 against Jeff
Williams, C. A. Ruedisueli and Kenneth D.
Newton, co-partners operating the East Detroit
Theatre, East Detroit, and the Roseville,
Roseville. Each complaint alleges a
conspiracy to defraud the respective distributor
by rendering false returns on percentage
pictures.
American Legion Opens
Theatre in Tompkinsville
TOMPKINSVILLE. KY—The American
Legion has opened a theatre in its new building
here, just off the town square. Pictures
are being shown nightly.
Buy South Solon House
SOUTH SOLON. OHIO—Willard Tobin of
Cedarville and Paul E. Perkins of Dayton
have purchased the Community Theatre here
from Nelson Creswell, owner of the Cozy at
Cedarville. and Pearl Fannon.
Courtesy to Baby Sitters
PITTSBURGH—Warners' Kenyon, northside,
issues passes to baby sitters when adults
attending the theatre turn in the sitter's
name and address.
New Theatre Opened
VALLEY HEAD. W. VA.—The new Tygart
Theatre was opened here recently by Troy
R. Swecker. It is a cement block building,
seating 250.
Gilding the Lilly
LILLY. PA.—The Lilly Theatre is being remodeled
and newly painted by Mike Single,
veteran exhibitor, and his son George.
New Projection to Galion State
GALIGN, OKLA. — The $7,500 Simplex
sound and projection equipment, originally
ordered for the new Galion, has been installed
instead in the State. Erection of the Galion
has been delayed by inability to obtain materials.
Juggle Feature Times in Akron
AKRON, OHIO—The Highland is showing
its main feature only once, in the middle
of the evening. Patrons had complained that
the A features were shown either too early
or too late on most neighborhood theatre
programs.
Chakeres Buys Logan Building
LOGAN, OHIO—The Chakeres Realty Co.
has purchased the modern brick buUding of
the Masonic lodge here for $170,000. The deal
constituted the largest financial transaction
in real property in Logan's history.
Visiting in Greece
ERIE, PA.—Mr. and Mrs. J. Galanis have
departed for a six-month visit in their native
Greece. They operate the Erie restaurant and
the Aris Theatre here.
86-C

, East
62
'^^^^'^^^^^^ ^^ 1^ V \^^J 'v"v^"*^n.^v%^vr"v
SUPER SALESMAN !
(
The Industry's Market lot Purchase or Sale of Equipment, Theatres, Service
• Classiliad Ada 10c Par Word. Poyabla ia Advoaca. Minimum Sl-OO. Ditploy RaUa on Rcqucal •
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED
1. Herlntr horwonljl genejjior, 80-160 umps.
85 >oUi rlitostjls lor optrjlloti, includiii
Siitirfii
Cu^itiinteed
meter and loluge irgulaior panel.
contJIMon. Jdcjt Ume-ln A
luf or large Ititalre,
buy at present d.ii prices tut SiOU 2, Western
Electric sounij eiiiili>mi'ni, serviced :inil euarjntetd
condiiign. Wide rjiiKS aptrtures, raoior ttneraior.
Brown & Broekmoer motors, 75 walls o( judlu.
41. 42 jnd IHO 43 umDliriers modiriid Idejl
(or Dme-ln or Ijrse ilie.itre. $500 3, Clnclnnjll
Tirne recordrr suiitid equipment, oierhauled
and eujrjfilred coiidilion Tito Bcoit Bjlbnr>iit
*mi)lifie(5 E»tr:iiiil lor snull lliejire, J350
Public ClMlr Insijllalton Co. 318 Fltni Bide
21Q8 A>e Ohio
r.iyiie . Cltiel^ind,
Complete puruble 35mm sound projefiwri nut-
(II. T"o 35mm Holmes Ijmp sound projectors
"Hh 2m Ii m.iB.iiines Amplifier and speaker In
cise. 5750 8\10 ll.illie be.ided. roll-up upe
THEATHE SEATING
Stteral ifiousjnd u^cd upliolslered opeia clijir:>
on hand Ue are headyujrLcrs for the cream of
ilie ilie used chair crop. We pick lots that we
like. Ihink you will We furnish proper slope and
fli leciions desired to juur theatre. Our many
In li >ears experience the seating business jour
for gujranlee Write exact piroto and price. We
h.ive p^iris for all mikes of tli.iirs Also, kalhir-
eile 25x25 In all colors, 55c ea Good qujIii)
fhicugo Used thalr -Marl. 82a So Slaie Si
i'tilcago 3. ill.
Fcnsin Chair msinienuice besdijuarierB bu all
parti and acccisorles for all cbslrs Also upbol-
«lery fabrics and Ibeaire cbalr supplies fiend ue
your lample for quotation Repsli serilee Bcallable
right In jour tbeaire also Kensin Sealing
Co E 13ib Bt . Chicago B. lU
,
CLtefilflGHOUSf
THEATRES FOR SALE
Theatre: Oiegrni couniy seal lo«n 0"ner sajs
cleared S50U last month after pa>ing manager's
salary and all expenses. Nice nc» place to live
included in deal 116,000 Cish will tutidle Theatre
About one hour's drive hum meifopolitan
Portland An eaiy llnng can be nude Py most
an>orit here Siiualtd In Ihe heart ol one uf ihi
In most scenic ^puts America $15.UU0 Include::
moitern building Tlieatre. touni) leat.lown ol
2.500 pupuljtiun Owner selling on aCiuuiit ul
uiher hiieresi^ Ca^y terms vmiIi Ki>ly
do«n Theatre I'orlland sul^urban New bi.ol
equlpmtni. goud district JJ2,50O full prie.
Might consider !oroe lerms Wiiie for hilur
u^
ilie'^e b

Jk
Labor Board Rejects
Hartford Union Plea
HARTFORD—The National Labor Relations
board has reiterated its claim to jurisdiction
on a local level in motion picture
theatres by reinstatnig charges against the
musicians union that it had violated the
Taft-Hartley act by featherbedding. The
initial complaint was registered by Harris
Bros., operators of the State Theatre here.
Following an examiner's hearing, the union
charged that NLRB had no jurisdiction in
the case.
Robert Greene. NLRB's regional board secretary,
declared that NLRB also reinstated
a charge against the union that it had coerced
the theatre into extending a contract.
The contract called for hiring musicians even
when the actual performance was by a name
band on the stage.
A third unfavorable action for the union
was the board's support of the examiner's
refusal to dismiss the whole complaint. The
union, in appealing, argued on grounds of
lack of jurisdiction. The board, on a fourth
appeal point, refused to allow the stagehands
and motion picture operators union to intervene.
David Seidman Retires
After 50 Years of Shows
NORTH ADAMS, MASS.—After 50 years in
showbusiness, during which time he has
participated in virtually every kind of theatrical
venture, David Seidman, 68. manager
of the Mohawk Theatre, has retired.
Seidman is suffering from an injiuy to his
left side received in a fall March 7, and has
been advised by doctors to retire and live in
the south. He will make his home in Miami
Beach.
Seidman started in showbusiness in 1908
and was an actor, producer and owner of
traveling shows. He has been manager of the
Mohawk for E. M. Loew's for six years and
prior to that managed theatres in New York
City.
Hamden Safety Police Bill
Opposed by Exhibitors
HAMDEN. CONN.—A proposed amendment
empowering the board of selectmen to provide
policemen, firemen or other officers as they
deem necessary for the "adequate protection"
of the public at any public dance, play
or show, theatrical exhibition, moving picture
exhibition, etc., was objected to by Dr.
J. B. Fishman for the Dixwell Playhouse,
Howard Johnson of the Strand, and Maurice
Bailey of the 'Whitney Theatre. Fishman
pointed out that the state police maintain a
rigid code with respect to theatre patrons'
safety.
Gets Drive-In Permit
WOLCOTT, CONN.—The zoning board has
approved the application of Philip C. Cahill
of Hartford to construct a drive-in theatre
on Route 69 near Cedar Lake. The project
will cost $75,000. Some Cedar Lake property
owners objected strongly to the proposal, contending
that the open-air theatre would
create additional traffic hazards on the state
highway and annoyances for neighbors
through the loudspeaker system.
New Era for Exhibition
Hailed by Allied of NE
Among those at the 20th anniversary dinner of the Independent Exhibitors of
New England were, left to right, top panel: James Guarino, H. M. Kichey, Michael
Kelleher, Arthur Howard, Nathan Yamins. Second panel: Abraham Myers, President
Daniel Murphy, Thomas Hannon, W. L. Bendslev, Lew Lehr. Bill Cunningham,
Walter Mitchell. Third panel: Neil Shea, William Ainsworth, David Palfreyman,
Maurice Safer, Julian Rifkin, Leonard Goldberg and Tnieman Rembusch.
BOSTON—News of the supreme court decisions
and the impact they will have on the
industry overshadowed all else at the 20th
anniversary convention of the Independent
Exhibitors of New England last week.
After Abram F. Myers, national Allied's
general counsel, submitted a report on the
com-t rulings Nathan Yamins, Fall River
exhibitor and one of those who instigated
the antitrust suit, declared, "This victory for
independent theatre owTiers is the greatest
step forward in its history." To which Ti-ueman
Rembusch. president of Allied of Indiana
added, "This is the goal we have been
trying to reach for 15 years."
The convention found time for a forum
discussion of film prices and selling practices
and to hear talks on television, the
public relations program of Publicists Anonymous,
concessions business, insurance, and
the children's cancer research foundation of
the Variety Club of New England.
MOGER TELLS OF PROGRAM
The program of Publicists Anonymous was
outlined by Art Moger. 'Warner Bros, exploiteer.
He made three points: ili Inferior
pictures must be exploited with oldtime showmanship.
It has been demonstrated that inferior
pictures have done better than average
business where the exhibitor has put in
special effort to sell it to the public. (2i The
drop in the boxoffice is not a death-rattle
but merely a leveling-off of prewar normalcy,
and the exhibitor must convince the public
that pictures are still good and still the
cheapest form of entertainment for the
masses. (3) Exhibitors, distributors and
actors, alike, must stop criticizing their industry
in such a way that it discredits the
industry.
In a discussion of theatre insurance, Henry
McKenna of Employers Group Insurance Co.
pointed out that the introduction of concessions
into theatres on a large scale calls for
a new type of insurance. Concessions expose
exhibitors to payment of damages for such
things as foreign substances found in food
products eaten on the premises, he said.
TALKS ON TELEVISION
Other speakers were E. P. Genock of Paramount
Pictures on television; James Mahoney
of Interstate Theatres on physical operation
of theatres; Samuel Lowe jr. and James
Ryan, who discussed theatre concessions;
David Palfreyman of MPAA. whose topic was
admission taxes, and John Dervin of United
Artists, chairman of the children's cancer
foundation of the Variety Club, who thanked
the, organization for its contributions to this
cause.
The convention wound up with a banquet
attended by 200. Bill Cimningham, columnist
and reporter, told of his experiences in
Hollywood and western Europe, Lew Lehr
was master of ceremonies. Greetings were
extended for Governor Bradford by Neil
Shea; for Mayor Curley by Thomas Hannon,
and by Michael Kelleher, president of the
Chamber of Commerce. Seated at the head
table with them were Walter Mitchell and
'W. Leslie Bendslev, co-chairmen for the convention;
Nathan Yamins, Abram Myers,
Arthur Howard, Julian Rifkin, Leonard Goldberg,
James Guarino, Maurice Safner, Dr.
J. B. Fishman, Trueman Rembusch, 'William
Ainsworth, Irving Dollinger and H. M. Richey,
Those registered for the convention were:
Ted Rosenblatt
Leonard Richler
Dominic Turturro
Marie Bruno
John Anthony
Anseln Sanborn
Marshall Carlton
Joe Carrolo
(Continued on next page)
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
NE
87

. . Tony
. . The
—
—
— — —
—
Boston Allied Parley
Attendance Is Good
(Continued from preceding page)
Maurice Safner
Melvin Sainer
Cherries Tobey
Michael Fasano
loe Mathieu
Woiren Nichols
Morns Pouzzner
Charles Hodgdon
David Hodgdon
Sam Sandler
Francis Perry
Julius Meyer
Mrs. K. Avery
Mrs. Ella Mills
Meyer Stanzler
Joe Stanzler
Fred Markey
Pat Crawley
Ernest Israelson
Newell Kurson
Kenneth Kurson
Arthur Rowe
Louis Klebenov
Meyer Ruttenberg
Arnold Vcm Leer
Horry Kirschgessner
George Denbow
Irving Farber
Bill Koster
Henry Sperling
Phil Markell
Fred Bragdon
Tom O'Brien
DEALERS WITH EXHIBITS
Edward Still
Roy McGrath
Harry Minkey
Edward Comi
Bill Cliagott
Bill McKinney
Leon Foster
Michael O'Brien
Bill Riseman
Nate Sloane
James Keavey
Reggie Kirtland
George Mason
Samuel Lowe jr.
Philip Lowe
Joel Clarke
Joe Cifre
Al Goldman
Hugh Jenkins
Ernest Comi
E. J. Eichenlaub
W. H. Patton
H. H. Theurer
A. W. Johnson
John 2undt
Nelson Hart
Morton Lodge
Morris Lodge
Saul Simons
Thomas Duane
Douglas MacLeod
Benn Rosenwald
Kan Pnckett
Charles Repec
Ben Bebcheck
Harry Worden
Bill Madden
Thomas Donaldson
Harry Segcrl
Al Fecke
Joe Mansfield
Eddie Renick
Irving Shiftman
Al Kane
Harry Browning
Chester Stoddard
Irving Cohen
Al Cohen
Harry Norton
Nate Oberman
Irving Isaacs
Herman Rifkin
John Moore
Ernest Israelson
Martin Toohey
Herbert Young
Eddie Hosmer
Carl Lutterell
Frank Dervin
Herbert Schaster
Jules Chapman
Ken Douglass jr.
Don Falco
Fred Weiss
Jerome Burns
Tom Donaldson
Al Fecke
Harrv Seaol
Joe Mansiield
Eddie Renick
Irving Shiffman
A. A- Simms
A, W- Chesley
Charles Rukas
Sam Horenslein
Bob Warner
I R. Stilphen
Irving Horenslein
Marguerite Gill
Ben Willis
Art Spaulding
Saul Waldman
Les Wysong
Howard Fink
Maxwell Andelman
George Horan
Lester Ross
Harry Snyder
A. Haas
James Raspa Appointed
BROCKTON. MASS.—A local young man
who started in the theatre business as an
usher a few years back has been promoted
to the post of manager of the Regent, Norfolk
Downs, according to announcement from
M&P Theatres, operator of the house. James
V. Raspa served as usher at the Brockton
Theatre until he entered the army. After
his discharge in 1946 he became assistant at
the Rialto here. When the latter was taken
over by the E. M. Loew circuit, he became
assistant of the WoUaston Theatre.
li will p

MOTION PICTURE ASSOCIATES
THE WILL ROGERS
MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Annual Beacon Award
DINNER AND DANCE
Waldorf-Astoria Grand Ballroom
Friday, May 21, 1948
Tickets:
$10 per Person
INFORMAL
Nat Harris
LA. 4-9190
For Reservations Call
Herman Schleier
CI. 6-6460
or Write
Room 170. Hotel Astor, New York 19. New York
BOXOFFICE ;; May 15, 1948
89
f

. .
I
I
. . Joe
. .
HARTFORD Over 150 Assemble
^X7alter T. Murphy, manager of the Capitol
At Levy Dinner
New London, has been named chair-
. . .
in
man of the New London campaign for the
United Nations Crusade for Children
Howie Richardson, owner and operator of
the State, New Britain, gave away free comic
books to youngster patrons one day last week
The Lockwood & Gordon houses in
. . .
Windsor and Wethersfield ran special morning
kiddy shows during a special vacation . . .
Douglas Amos, new manager of the Webb,
Wethersfield, is commuting daily from his
New Haven home.
A welcome visitor in these parts was Norman
Rowe, former Lockwood & Gordon man
in Connecticut and now the circuit's Maine
district manager. Rowe stopped in for a
weekend visit to renew acquaintances .
Walter Lloyd of the Allyn tells the story that
Bill Robinson, the famed Negro dancer who
was in a booking at the State, dropped by to
see Lloyd, an old pal. The doorman didn't
recognize the dancer at first, and so "Bojangles"
obligingly did a few steps on the
lobby floor.
Martin Kelleher has a new glassware deal
Eddie Selet of
operating at the P:-incess . . .
the Crown has a new policy of cartoons on
Saturdays, and also has new dish deal . . .
This Space
RESERVED
for
Our
Sensational
New Pattern
Coming Soon!
WATCH
FOR IT!
CAMEO SCREEN
ATTRACTIONS, INC.
Samuel I. Davidson. Pres.
50 Melrose St. Boston, Mass.
NEW HAVEN—More than 150
motion picture,
judicial and political notables and
friends attended the dinner given at the
Racebrook Country club for Herman M. Levy,
general counsel for the Theatre Owners of
America, at nearby Orange last Thursday (6j.
The guest list included Gov. James C. Shannon
of Connecticut. Mayor William Celetano
of New Haven. Lieut. Gov. Robert Parsons,
Att'y Gen. William Hadden and virtually all
court house and city hall officials from here
and Hamden, and the following:
Dr. H. D. Hartenslen
Shermccn Rosenberg
J.I- Luria
John Mezzanotte
Louis Phillips
A. Allen Johnson
Timothy O'Toole
George Horwitz
Henry Germaine
Jack Horowitz
Charles Berney
Samue! Shainberg
Ben Simon
Israel Jacobs
George ElUs
Barney Lenzi
R. E. Hyman
Don Pouzzner
Joseph Cooper
John R. Thim
George DiCenzo
Edw-ard Peters
James Kavanaugh
Barney Pitkin
John A. Maresca
Raymond Clark
M. M. Krevit
B. E. Hoifman
Maxwell Hoffman
Joseph Shrebnick
WilHara Prince
Dr. L. Cohen
Morris Bailey
Bridgie Weber
Robert Saxe
Sam Bofwinick
Dr. A. Yudkin
Bob Hoffman
David Douglass
Harry Hornstein
Reuben Moore
Meyer Bailey
A. J. Siegal
HoTry Stone
Phil Sherman
Walter Silverman
Arthur Greenfield
Hymie Levine
Herman Pickus
John Povone
Charles Rechl
H, M. Richey
Edward Sargoy
Joseph Stein
Morey Goldstein
Raymond Moon
Robert S'ternburg
W- F. Rodgers
George Dembow
Charles Lewis
Louis Gordon
Arthur Lockwood
Albert Kane
A. Sweedlow
I- H- Rogovin
Sam Seletsky
CONNECTICUT
Sam Rosen
Sam Weber
Thomas Amalruda
Sam Platcow
Sidney Silverberg
J. B. Fishman
Edward Lynch
James B. Butler
B- Salzman
James Darby
M H. Wren
S. F. Gingold
Dan Adley
Al Pearson
Elmer Ryan
Burton Levy
Edward Levy
Lou Brown
J, J. O'Leary
Tom Friday
Nrck Palladinc
Burt Prince
C- Summa
R. Parsons
William Benne;*.
Gene Loughlin
M Munson
A. Paoletli
John Lynch
John T. Dunn
William Raynsford
S. M, Atkins
Walter Sliles
Herbert MacDonald
M. I. Whalen
Henry Needles
Frank Starkel
William Hadden
Harry Strong
Ray Gates
William Brennan
Noyes Hal!
Al Pickus
George Wilkinson
John Santangelo
Richard Belden
Roger Mahan
Ted Jacocks
B Jacocks
William Githtz
NEW YORK
Sam Shain
James Jerauld
E. S. Canter
Frank S. Keyer
Stanley Prenosil
Searil Putziger
Harold Eskin
J. M. Collins
William Scully
Richard Daly
BOSTON
Dan Finn
E. X. Callahan
H, Stoneman
J. Fleischer
J. Mahonc:y
Hy Fine.
WAHOO
l^/ America's finest Screen Gamely}
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT COMPANY
831 South Wabash Avenue • Chicago, Illinois
BOSTON
roe Cifre, chief barker of the Variety Club
of New England, returned from a prolonged
Florida stay
where he caught a 72-
Joe Cifre
pound, eight-foot sailfish,
for which he was
awarded a citation
from the Palm Beach
Fishing club. He is
proudly wearing a gold
lapel button and has
had the s a i 1 f i sh
mounted. Joe is elated
over the award received
at the Miami
convention by the Tent
23 as the outstanding
Tent of Variety International. "We will receive
a bronze trophy which will be presented
to us formally by an international
officer at a special function in the near future,"
he said. "The earning of this award
could not have been possible without the
great aid and assistance accorded our Tent
by our many friends throughout the industry.
Theatre owners and managers, employes,
workers in the exchanges all went out to
assist our 1947 fund-raising campaign and
put it over the top."
. . .
William E. "Ted" Hathaway, who took over
the Moosehead in Greenville, Me., a year
ago, was making the film district last week.
He admitted that it was the second time in
20 years he had been in Boston . Rapolus,
Majestic, Easthampton, was booking
at Columbia Another out-of-town visitor
was Lou Brown, advertising director for
Loew's Poll Theatres of New England .
Irving and Al Cohen, Ritz, Lewiston, Me.,
came in for the convention, as did Carl Tutterell,
manager of the Milo, Milo, Me., owned
by Mrs. Ella Mills.
Harry Norton, for many years manager of
the Puritan in Roxbury until the house was
sold recently to the E. M. Loew circuit, has
joined the Princess Amusement Co., owned
and operated by Charles and David Hodgdon,
as manager of the Princess in Wakefield
. . . SRO invited several score to a
screening of "The Paradine Case" Thursday
evening, the night before the premiere at
the Esquu-e.
You can get your
SPECIRL TRAILERS
THE TIME
BY GOING TO YOUR NEAREST
I
I
• BRANCH
New York
245 Weit
55th St.
Chicago
1327 S.
Woboih
Los
Angeles
1574 W,
Washington
TnrsTTnivnT
CANDY CO.
62 COMMERCE ST.. NEW HAVEN, CONN.
"WE KEEP
THE MOVIES
SWEET"
90 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

^
! Howard,
[
by
I
He
'
I
Taw
,
ing
I The
I new
I Thompson
'
in
I
Jack Wrather to Lens
Hoblitzelle Invites 750
;i
Oil Story at Tyler
TYLER, TEX.—Jack Wrather. Hollywood
producer and former Tyler resident, will start
shooting his new picture, "Strike It Rich,"
in this area about May 17. It is a story of
the East Texas oil fields, which the producer's
father helped develop. Bonita Granville,
Wrather's wife, is the star. The male
lead is Don Castle, a classmate of the producer
at the University of Texas.
Director Herbert Leeds, assistant Rex
Bailey, art director Lewis Creber, and J. T.
Price jr., Wrather's representative, arrived
here several days ago to make arrangements
for the project. The film will have to do
with such places as the Clay lease, where
an ocean of black gold was discovered, and
the towns of Arp and Lindale in Smith
county, in and around which most of the
shooting will be done. Tyler will be the base
of operations.
Lindale will be used to show a typical eastern
Texas town before the oil boom. Kilgore,
with its steel-derrick skyline, will be shown
as a typical postboom town. Hollywood talent
will be flown in as needed. Local people
will be used as much as possible as character
atmosphere.
Howard Bland Will Build
400-Seater at Taylor
TAYLOR, TEX.—Howard Bland, principal
owner of the Howard and Ritz theatres here,
is building a third house. It will be a 400-
seater.
! Bland's other theatres are the 800-seat
which was recently remodeled and
air conditioned, and the 700-seat Rita, which
also was improved recently. Robb & Rowley
circuit has an interest in both houses.
Bland has been an exhibitor in Taylor for
almost 30 years. The original exhibitor here
was Howard Hoke. He set up his enteiTDrise
in 1917 and a few years later was joined
Bland. Hoke still lives here. He has been
in ill health for the last few years but has
been doing rather nicely in recent months.
is retired from the business.
Short Subjects Hold Over,
New Feature Brought In
DALLAS—The Warner color cartoon, "I
a Putty Tat," broke precedent by show-
a second week in the Majestic Theatre.
feature was shifted to another house
but the short remained to team up with a
full length film. Manager Forrest
said the short holdover was a fii-st
his experience on theatre row.
Risque Film a Fraud
DALLAS—Prank Potter, U.S. district attorney,
and federal officer procured a film projector
to screen a print that had been marked
"obscene" by a postal inspector. A large
crowd of willing reviewers about the postoffice
gathered to see the risque film. All
were disappointed. A federal agent said the
film was so tame the owner should be faced
with fraud charges.
Buys Protection Theatre
PROTECTION, KAS.—Merle Long has
bought the Midway Theatre here from H. D.
McCloughan.
CAMPAIGNING—Buddy Harris, owner
of the Buddy Harris circuit and one of
the most popular exhibitors on the Dallas
Filmrow, was a leading campaigner for
the Shrine ring recently. Because he is
such a tiny mite (weighing close to 300
pounds) and being afraid that nobody
would notice him in a crowd. Buddy
dressed in the colorful garb of a handsome
caballero, mounted the back of a
jeep and rode through the crowd greeting
everyone with a hearty handshake.
Mrs. Lucille DeShazo Dies;
Veteran Nowata Exhibitor
NOWATA, OKLA.—A leading citizen of
Nowata and a veteran exhibitor, Mrs. Lucille
DeShazo, was buried Pi-iday i7i, following
services in the Nowata Baptist church.
Mrs. DeShazo died two days earlier in a
Tulsa hospital after a five-week illness.
In 1920 Mi-s. DeShazo and her late husband
moved to Nowata, where they purchased
the Rex Theatre. She has operated the
house by herself since her husband's death
in November 1945. He was killed in an auto
accident.
Both Mr. and Mrs. DeShazo were civic and
social leaders in Nowata. They were particularly
active in civic fund drives and bond
sales and have been recognized for their
work with citation awards. Mrs. DeShazo
also was active in golfing circles.
Survivors include four brothers and five
sisters.
Mexicans Not Fooled
By Dubbed U.S. Voices
Dallas—Arthur J. Jerome of Mexico
City, one of Mexico's few independent
exhibitors, told a local reporter that
Mexico's natives will not see Holl.vwood
films that have been dubbed with Spanish
dialog.
"They know darn well Mickey Rooney
can't speak Spanish," he said. But they
like Hollywood pictures with Spanish subtitles,
he explained. Hollywood is now
making them that way.
Mexican theatregoers also like films
produced in their own country, but they
will go to see only certain Mexican stars.
The favored luminaries are Victor Remis,
Arturo de Cordova, Maria Felix and Pedro
Armendariz. Other Mexican stars are just
wasting their time, Jerome said.
To Foundation Parly
DALLAS—Karl Hoblitzelle, president of
the Interstate Circuit, has sent invitations to
750 guests for a barbecue to be held May 26
at the Texas Research foundation laboratories
a few miles north of the city.
Hoblitzelle. who set up the foundation with
a gift of hundreds of thousands of dollars,
will hold open house at the laboratories a
day before the barbecue. He is president of
the foundation and has been instrumental
in getting other civic and business leaders
to donate great sums of money for its work.
Forty scientists and employes are at work
at the research laboratories, studying ways
to improve the productivity of Texas farmlands.
Another foundation created by Hoblitzelle
is the Southwest Medical foundation, which
carries on a study of new medicines and
techniques in medicine. Hoblitzelle has given
the two foundations more than a million dollars
in recent years.
Capacity House Hears
Jose Iturbi in Dallas
DALLAS—Jose Iturbi. screen star and
world-famous pianist, demonstrated again
last week his tremendous drawing power in
Dallas. He gave a one-night concert at Fair
Park auditoriimi and, as usual, the house was
sold out even before the boxoffice opened.
On succeeding nights he played to full houses
in Amarillo, Witchita Falls, Waco and Fort
Worth. D. A. Hulcy, president of the Dallas
Chamber of Commerce, presented Iturbi with
a letter of welcome in which he said, "The
people of Dallas have long admired your
artistic triimiphs as brought to us through
the motion pictiire, radio and phonograph
records."
Week of Reissues Does
Big Business in Dallas
DALLAS—The Forrest Theatre, one of
the
smaller Interstate neighborhood houses, ran
seven repeat films in one week and billed the
program as All-Star week. Increased business
resulted from the booking. The pictures
were "Princess and the Pirat«," "Alexander's
Ragtime Band," "Cowboy and the Lady,"
"The Yearling," "Call of the Wild," "Tarzan
and the Amazons" and "Annie Oakley." All
but "The Yearling" were reissues.
A House in Cameron, Tex.,
Is Wiped Out by Fire
CAMERON, TEX. — The Milam Theatre,
Stanley Swift's A house, was gutted by fire
May 7. A quarter of the business block was
damaged. The theatre was a total loss. Damage
may approach S75.000. The Cameron
Theatre, a smaller house, remains intact.
Swift operates his two theatres in affiliation
with the Robb & Rowley-United circuit.
Drive-In Opened
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Bee-Gee Auto
Theatre has opened three miles east of Eastern
on SE aoth street. "Welcome Stranger"
was the opening attraction and free ice cream
was given out. Admission prices are 40 cents
for adults and children under 12. free.
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948
sw 91

. . . we
. . . and
. . ANYTIME!
. . . The
•"^i»c«n,s,iti.
\wjM:
OKLAHOMA CITY
. . .
Take Watkins, manager for National Theatre
Supply here, made the front page of the
Oklahoma City Times when his shiny auto
was crushed by a large tree. Watkins' auto
was parked on Filmrow directly in the toppled
tree's path Mr. and Mrs. Paul
Townsend have gone on a two-week holiday
to California. Townsend is with Warner
Bros. Theatres here.
The Riverside Drive-In, Griffith Theatres'
third drive-in in Tulsa, opened May 7. Attending
from here were C. F. Motley, A. C.
Ince, Frank McCabe and Louise Wesson .
The janitor of a
. .
Cushing theatre won praise
from his employer and a theatre patron, plus
an award, for his honesty. Ozie Johnson, employe
of the Dunkin and Paramount theatres,
found a billfold containing $100 in the Dunkin.
He located Russell McConkey. the owner,
and returned the missing billfold to the excited
man.
Social notes: Jennie Mae Lund. Paramount
Pictures report clerk until her recent resignation,
was married Saturday in First Christian
church to John G. T. Shoe, oil company
Mrs. Paul Rice
employe in Bartlesville . . .
and two children left Oklahoma City Wednesday
for Milwaukee to join Rice in making a
home. Rice, booker here with Paramount
until recently, is now office manager of the
Milwaukee exchange. A round of parties was
given in farewell courtesy to Mrs. Rice
Sally Dulany, Paramount ledger clerk,
. . .
left
Friday on a two-week hoUday.
A turn for the worse in the weather has
kept state exhibitors at home. Exchanges reported
an unusually light turnout for booking
and buying Monday and Tuesday. Seen
around, however, were Mr. and Mrs. O. L.
Smith, Marlow: John Terry, Pen-y; J. H.
Giffin. Miami; J. R. Morgan and C. L.
Doughty, both of Garber; Mrs. W. T. Henderson,
Medford; John Carter, Bokoshe: Dana
Ryan, Pawnee; H. B. Skelton, Panhandle,
Tex.; Leroy Hodges, Anadarko; G. E. Ortman.
Hennessey, and Mr. and Mrs. C. L.
Lance, Ringling.
Tom Davidson, Griffith man in
Tex., celebrated a birthday May 10 .
Borger,
. E. R.
.
Slocum of El Reno. Griffith manager-partner,
observed his anniversary May 11 .
. . Another
Griffithite celebrating his birthday recently
was Joe Bob Brodie. assistant manager in
Pamipa, Tex., who chalked up another year
on May 15.
Floyd J. Barton, a Griffithite in New
Braunfels, Tex., has been selected to set up
an organization of local amateur radio operators
prepared to furnish organized emergency
communication in time of disaster. His
title is emergency coordinator . . . Harry Kalmine
of New York, president of Warner Theatres,
and James E. Coston, Chicago, midwest
and southwest zone manager for the
same chain, were in town a couple of days
Liberty had to shut down a few
hours recently because of wiring trouble.
"I Remember Mama" closed at the Center
and "The Lady Prom Shanghai" opened the
following day. "Intrigue" opened at the
MADE RIGHT BY MEN WH$
KNOW HOW!
'NEW YORK
245 West 55fh St.
LOS ANGELES
I
1574 W.
Washington
CHICAGO
1327 S. Wobosh
TRAILERS
SEND US YOUR
NEXT ORDER/
3 COMPLETELY EQUIPPED PLANTS
WE ARE NOT MAGICIANS
BUT
can make your theatre equipment troubles vanish into
thin air! Call on us .
We have the necessary
parts—and "fix-it" men who know how to assemble them.
And when you plan changes, we have leading makes of new
equipment. Call on us . . . even
when you are NOT in trouble
see how well we are ready to serve you!
ss
OUROEOiS
ASTOR PICTURES COMPANY
i
HAH^OOO « JACKSON STS.
DHUAS 1 "R-VetsWe 1834" TEX«
- #iiM.-giiiiiliii^ i
OKLflHOmfl THEflfRE SUPPLV
K.._..,^

I
state, "Casbah" at the Warner, and "The
Iron Curtain" at the Midwest . . . Furnishers
for the Blandings dream house being built
in the new Steve Pennington addition at
2813 NW 33rd place, will be the John A.
Brown Co.. one of the city's le.iding department
stores. Prelimina:y estimates place the
cost for the exploitation stunt at about
$25,000. The furnishers expect to spend about
$15 000. The house is expected to be opened
early in July. A month-long open house will
coincide with the showing of the SRO film
at the Criterion.
Laryngitis made it impossible for Mary Martin
to stay in the "Annie Get Your Gun"
show' during its five-day run in the Home
Theatre. The star dropped out of the cast
at. the end of the first act on the second
night. Her infirmity gave a break to Yvonne
Adair, understudy who had never before had
the chance to play it. Miss Adali' played
"Annie" for the remainder of the week, including
one matinee. Miss Adair's performances
were well received.
The Rex that burned a few months ago in
Maysville is being rebuilt by Mr. and Mrs.
Sam Ridgeway. The Ridgeways also own the
Granada in Maysville. It is now in operation.
The State has begun its summer policy of a
double bill at reduced prices. Scale now
is 25 cents for adults until noon weekdays,
40 cents until 6 p. m., and 50 cents after 6.
Saturday, Sunday and holiday prices are 40
cents until 1 p. m. and 50 cents thereafter.
PROFIT THAT s
AT
EXTRA
NO EXTRA COST
302 So. Harwood
WITH
u SUPPLIES
Popcorn, Cocoanut Oil, Salt, Boxes and Bags
EoL
Wa
'arner
Divisional Manager
Dallas, Texas Prospect 7-1685
New Sound at Plainville
PLAINVILLE, MO.—Mr. and Mrs. George
More have installed new sound in their
More Theatre here. The interior of the house
also has been redecorated.
HOLLYWOOD AMUSEMENT CO.. 831 S. WABASH AVE., CHICAGO
COOLING
Washed Air Systems
Refrigeration Systems
Air Washers - Pumps - Mats
TWO-WAY
HORN
SYSTEMS
SOUNDHEADS
AMPLIFIERS
BASES
Blowers - V-Beh Drives Motors
-
Switches - Deflectors
Most Anything for the Theatre
HARDIN THEATRE
SUPPLY CO.
714 So. Hampton Rd., Dallas, Tex.
All Kinds of Theatre Equipment
Parts for All Makes of Projectors.
HERBER BROTHERS \
Fair Treatment and Adequate Service for 25
Years"
408 S. HARWOOD DALLAS 1. TEXAS
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
93
i

DALLAS
T ester DoUison of the State in Sherman was
in making the last roundup for his new
El Rancho Drive-In Theatre at Denton . . .
R. B. Dicus, owner of the Plaza in Denton,
was here to book and pick up supplies for
the house he bought last year from former
film salesman Bill Hurst. He said Bill bought
a cafe and had to wash the dishes one day
last week as the regular washer walked off
the job. Dicus was just pointing out that
most kinds of business have their help problems
still. He formerly owned and operated
a trucking business from here to Chicago but
thought a theatre might be better.
L. R. Robertson and wife, owners of the
Lucas Theatre, made a quick dash to Mc-
Kirmey within minutes after the tornado
swept through the south end of that town
IS
YOUR THEATRE FOR SALE?
We Have Buyers With Cash
"J O E" I O S E P H
THEATERS
Let "Joe" Sell Your Show
Theatres bought—sold—equipped—fire
inventories—consultant and equipment.
2409 Sunset Dallas, Tex.
Phone Yale 2-7650
early in the week. Mrs. Robertson's mother,
who lives there, was foimd safe and out of
the tornado's path. Theatres were undamaged,
as the blow's closest point was five
blocks away. Mrs. Robertson lived in Mc-
Kinney before her marriage. Col. Frank
Merrill of the Avon Theatre, who was in the
army air corps with Robertson during the
war, was pinch-hitter at the Lucas while the
Robertsons ran over to McKinney. Incidentally,
the Robertsons have finished spring
renovations. The paint brush was used in
most spots, new display frames arranged, new
carpet laid, and the refrigeration cooling
system worked over for higher efficiency.
Murals on inside walls, a cry room and more
neon for the front rounded out the job.
B. F. Fordtran of the Alamo in Bellville
and H. H. Seifert of the Palace in 'Weimar
were in to see John Pranconi and John F.
Greer of United Theatre Service Corp., who
handle the buying and booking for these
houses . . . 'W. E. Miller of the Lyric in Flatonia
has just bought the UTS service.
REMOOELING-DECORATING
Drapes — Frames — Lighting Fixtures
LOWEST PRICES
LUPE ROMERO
4222 Loiarette DALLAS 4. TEX. T-0060
Harvey D. Hill, re-elected business agent
for the local projectionists union, was along
Filrm-ow for the first time in two months. He
is chief operator at the Majestic and spends
most off hours in the imion's meeting hall
. . . J. E. Luckett, manager of the White
Theatre, played a return engagement of "The
Farmer's Daughter" in order not to overlook
any Academy award possibilities . . . "Anna
Karenina" was tradeshown by 20th-Fox in
that exchange's private screening room.
George Chatmas, the genial exhibitor in
Hearne, is home after minor surgery at
Marlin. His son Jimmie George told film
men that it wasn't serious. Mrs. Chatmas
was also reported to be feeling much better
these days after a prolonged illness . . . A. E.
McClain, city manager of the Robb & Rowley
theatres in Hillsboro, was up for his
regular visit to the home office and the Row.
Until a few months ago he was manager in
Colorado City . . . 'Walter Knoche, owner of
the Palace and Longhorn theatres in Fredericksburg,
was in booking. He said his second
house is closed and that business at
his A house is off 30 per cent.
John Franconi, owner of the Screen Guild
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
Your Deal Handled Personally
27 years experience
We Cover the U. S. Market
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
3422 ginmore Dallas 10, Texas
Phone T3-2026
4-$TAR
gjj/'^i-"
dM w^^
• • • •
Pop Com Man Salt is one of the biggest
behind-the-scene reasons lor pop corn's
showr-stealing
flavor.
EQUIPMENT DISPLAY AND SALES
MR. CECIL DAVIS
4020 MiArlhui Rcod
r. 0. Boi 20, Woic «

. . Wallace
hadn't
exchange, accompanied salesman Connie
Dreher on a business trip tlu-ough western
Texas. Franconi was making contact with
representative showmen to learn first hand
what the outlook is for coming months . . .
S. G. Fry and his Joy house manager, Earl
Cason. were here on a routine visit and to
work out additional facilities for the film
truck line which they and four other exhibitors
own and jointly operate.
F. E. Sidle, owner of the Victory Theatre
in Bangs, near Brownwood, was on the
Row recently following his luianimous election
as city councilman . . . Howard Bland,
Robb & Rowley partner in Taylor, was here
to confer at the home office on new equipment
and new construction. He said Howard
Hoke, his partner for many years, has retired
and has been inactive for some time
and that his condition remains fairly good.
Bland was asked about the Taylor man who
is making national headlines for eating nothing
but grass and thriving on it. Bland
said the man eats gra.ss, all right, but that
he (Bland I gotten aroimd to the new
fad as yet.
L. R. Jones, owner of the Jonsey Tlieatre
in Normangee, was here buying and collecting
miscellaneous supplies. He formerly owned
a theatre in Altus, Okla., which he leased to
Griffith and recently he sold Griffith the
building. He is figuring on another Texas
theatre investment
former city
. . .
manager for
J. R. MacEachron,
Malco in Jackson,
Tenn., is about to go to work for Jefferson
Amusement Co., we were told. He has been
staying in Raynie, La., for several weeks.
Joy Houck's Queen Theatre on Elm street,
which built its reputation by offering new
double bills daily and charging only 10 cents
admission, but which raised its price during
the war, has reduced prices again to a dime
plus tax. The childi-en's price is 5 cents . . .
Robb & Rowley's Rosewin Theatre has started
using Ringo to build up its Saturday kid
shows. Comic books and toys are among the
prizes . . P. G. Cameron's Ervay Theatre
.
and L. B. Crow's Sunset Theatre have joined
in the independent neighborhood theatres'
cooperative advertising campaign, increasing
the number of participants to 19.
J. M. "Soda" Reynolds and his wife enjoyed
a few days in Houston ...CM.
Cooper of the Queen in Mart drove to Dallas
to pick up his daughter, a senior at SMU.
and take her home for Mother's day . . .
Prank Benson of the Majestic in Bowie was
on the market and reported he has completed
a spring renovating program at his
house
. Walthall, National Screen
Service veteran, underwent surgery in Medical
Arts hospital for a stomach condition.
He was reported making a good recovery soon
afterward.
Organizing Radio Network
PALESTINE, TEX. — Gordon McLendon,
owner of radio stations KNET here and KLIF
in Dallas, is president of a new broadcasting
network now being organized as the Liberty
Broadcasting System. It will cover Texas and
several adjoining states. McLendon is a son
of B. R. McLendon, owner and operator of
the Tri-States theatres circuit.
Mount Hope to
Slothowers
MOUNT HOPE, KAS.—Mr. and Mrs. T. H.
Slothower, operators of several Kansas theatres,
have taken over the Community Tlieatre
here from Chet Chrlstianson.
M. R. 'Duke' Clark's Upfilfed Cigar
Is
a Dallas Filmrow Trademark
DALLAS—The handsome and genial
gentleman
in the accompanying picture is the
background for one of the most distinctive
trademarks on Dallas' Filmrow.
The holder and cigar tilted at a 60 degree
angle from the mouth of M. R. "Duke" Clark,
Paramount district manager, can be seen at
the same precarious angle any time you see
"Duke," whether it be in his office, on the
street, at the 'Variety Club, banquet table or
elsewhere. Friends say he has carried the
four-inch holder and five-inch imported
Havana at this angle so long a niche has
been worn in the holder and the angle never
varies as much as one degree.
The plaque in the background was given
to Clark as one of the founders of Tent 2
of the 'Variety Club in Columbus, Ohio, in
1930. Clark also helped organize Tent 25 in
Los Angeles some years later and was assistant
national chief barker eight years. He
was elected property master of the Dallas
club soon after he an-ived here and has held
the post for two terms. This year he also
was made chairman of the house committee.
Clark lives with his wife in a home they
purchased at 6855 Casa Loma Ave. soon after
moving to Dallas.
Clark was branch manager
in Cleveland at one time, later was district
manager in Los Angeles, went back to Cleveland
as district manager, and came here in
the same capacity three years ago. He now
San Antonio Cow Belles
Vie on Theatre's Stage
SAN ANTONIO—Thhty-five of the Alamo
City's loveliest young women competed in
the semifinals of the local contest to select
America's Most Beautiful Cow Belle Monday
evening at the Texas Theatre. The winner
will go to Bandera on May 21, 22 to compete
with other contestants for the national title.
Monette Shaw acted as mistress of ceremonies
at the local contest judged by three
convalescent veterans from Brooke General
hospital at Fort Sam Houston. The young
miss winning the title will compete for the
foUo'wing prizes at the Bandera Stompede:
An all expense paid trip to Hollywood, a $500
western outfit, a wrist watch, a custom made
pah- of boots and silver inscribed cowbell
designating her as "America's Most Beautiful
Cow Belle" and autographed by Zeke.
Finals in the local contest were held Tuesday
evening ill).
Select Being Rebuilt
MINEOLA, TEX.—Robert Hooks is coming
along nicely with the rebuilding of his Select
Theatre here. It is being modernized and
enlarged and will reopen June 15. Bob added
quite a bit of new equipment to his booth
and to the house in general, with Modern
Theatre Equipment of Dallas furnishing the
supplies.
—Photo by Dcrn Hulse jr.
DUKE CLARK
boasts he is a "native Texan" and on occasion
can be seen wearing a ten-gallon hat.
Oklahoma Report Shows
Enterprise on Increase
OKLAHOMA CITY—The Oklahoma tax
commission reports a gain in business enterprises
in operation for the first quarter of
the calendar year 1948.
The report, released this week, shows 2,731
new businesses; 2,500 quitting business, and
1,103 changes of ownership. This is a gain
in new business of 231.
THEATRE SEAT INSTALLATION
20 years experience — Satisfaction guaranteed.
/« HYDE
Write or Phone 5327
Johnnie Boutwell
Temple,
Texas
«T.-»anfran«I».o(Z>
calif.
BUFFALO COOLING EQUIPMENT
lOthn.. 2nd Unit, Santa FeBldg. BUFFALO ENGINEERING CO-, INC. Dallas, Tex.
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 95

. .
SAN ANTONIO
^as Alia de la Muerte," a Pan-American
release, played the new Follies the first
part of the week followed by the personal
appearance of Mexican star Lena Montez
who was here three days after her successful
tour of eastern cities. She will also play dates
. .
in the Rio Grande valley
former manager of the
. Rollie
Broadway in
Moore,
Alamo
Heights, is the new relief manager for the
Texas.
.
. .
Billie Guy Buckalew. chief of service at
the Texas, is away on vacation
Santikos. former Athens, Greece,
. . George
film manager,
is back in town. Grapevine reports say
that he is contemplating a new theatrical
deal in Corpus Christi.
a night
His cousin Jimmie is
Pepe Guizar
club operator there . . .
was here for a two-day engagement at the
Teatro Nacional
way actor, has a
. Will Hussung,
supporting role
Broad-
in the
Little Theatre production. "Suds in Your
Eye," at the San Pedro Playhouse May 17-19.
Joe Wolf, operator of the new San Pedro
Drive-In here, formerly was a manager for
a Minneapolis film exchange before coming
to the Lone Star state to live . . . Mrs. Alfred
N. Sack, wife of the head of Sack Amusement
Enterprises, Dallas, was in town to attend
the National Council of Jewish Women's
regional meeting at the Plaza hotel . . .
"Fort
Apache," which played the Majestic on a
regular run last week, was recently screened
here under the title of "War Party."
Paul S. Wilson, assistant to Harry G.
Ballance. 20th-Fox Southern division manager,
Atlanta, was in
to call on his old friend
Gordon B. Dunlap at
Cla.sa-Mohme last
week. Wilson and Dunlap
worked together
about 30 years ago for
Paramount Pictures
Dist. Co. in Los Angeles
. . . Other visitors
were Phil Longdon,
20th-Pox district
manager, Dallas; J. W.
P.
Kunetka, formerly in
S. Wilson
partnership with Van
Chamberlain at the Rita in Benavides, who
now makes his home in Albuquerque, and
Mrs. Marie C. Burkholder, Marine Theatre,
Fort Worth.
. . .
Sam Katz has been appointed assistant
manager for International Amusement Enterprises
here, which comprise the Nacional,
Guadalupe. Zaragoza and Maya theatres . . .
Senor H. Diaz, general manager of the five
Ansell circuit of theatres in New York, was
The Azteca in Natalia
in town recently . . .
is for sale. Felix Garza of this city is acting
Lew
as agent for owner Alfred Pena
Bray. Interstate valley manager, Harlingen,
and his son, stopped here en route back from
the Variety convention in Miami.
The Auditorium here has booked "Holiday
on Ice of 1948" starting the first week in
June . . . Bob Steele's western stage show
clicked at the Empire here. On the same
program with the cowboy hero was Jack
O'Shea. who plays villain roles, and Max
Terhune. ventriloquist, and Elmer, his
dummy. Film fare was "Western Heritage."
Billy Rau, who was a booker for Paramount
when that company maintained a branch office
here a number of years ago, is now back
in town after an absence of several years
while he resided in Dallas. Bill is the new
southern Texas film salesman for Paramount
and now lives in Alamo Heights.
Manuel Gonzales, manager of the new Pan-
American Film Co.. Laredo, was in town Friday
and ordered BOXOFFICE sent to his
place of business for the next 12 months.
His company distributes Spanish talking pictures
made m Cuba and Mexico . . . Diane
Hart, the film actress who is organizing her
own stage show band to play theatre dates,
is in need of several more musicians to
round out a novelty orchestra. Musicians
now at liberty here may get in touch with
Miss Hart by calling P-3567.
The Laurel, Interstate house on San Pedro
avenue, had the first local showing of "Black
Narcissus," which opened here Sunday .
"Gentleman's Agreement," which played a
full week at the Majestic, did well enough
to be moved over to the Texas for an extended
engagement . "Si Me Han de
. .
Matar Manana." a Carabaza Film release,
played a full week at the National. Business
Su4fum/i H J44Ai abound tUe can^nen. --
Order now while we can make delivery
installation and be ready for next summer with
and we can take care of
U.S.
Made in Package Sizes from 5 to 50 Tons.
AIR WASHERS — FANS — HYDRAULIC CONTROLS — MOTORS — REFLECTORS
^^s,..^ MODERN THEATRE EQUIPMENT COMPANY
214 SO. ST. PAUL ST. Phone R-5009 DALLAS. TEXAS
Distributed
by
96 BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

. . . Mary
. . Frances
. . "State
at all local theatres has been better since
Lenten season is over.
Interstate circuit has a trio of flying technicians
who pilot their own planes from city
to city, to take care of the cooling, heating
and sound systems in the theatres. The men
are Jimmy Skinner, who has a BT-13; Raymond
Townes and Charles Holmes, who have
a Stinson Voyager. The circuit allow's each
gent an expense account for the airplanes.
They receive so much per mile w'ith an additional
allowance for storage.
Leslie C. Ketner is acting as Alamo Heights
agent for BOXOFFICE. Exhibitors and film
salesmen in the northern section of San Antonio
may mail or bring their news items to
357 Rosewood, Alamo Heights 2, Tex.
Maria Luisa Zea and Augustin Insunsa.
Mexican screen players, made several personal
appearances at the new Follies and
Progreso theatres recently In conjimction
with the regular film programs . . . William
Smith is now the new southern Texas representative
for Film Classics of Dallas. He
succeeds Bill Bugie, resigned.
Dallas Independents Hear
Of Candy, Stimulant Deals
DALLAS—Thirty-eight owners and managers
attended the May meeting of Dallas
Independent Theatre Owners Tuesday i4i in
the Dallas Athletic club. Peter Lawford,
MGM star, was honored guest, appearing with
E. E. Fogelson, millionaii'e Dallas oil man with
whom he is visiting for a few days.
Frank Edwards, candy manufacturer's
agent, explained a plan by which, he said,
theatres can save up to 12 per cent on standard
brands of candy.
President Phil Isley read the supreme court
decision in the government's antitrust suit,
but there was no comment on the ruling. Don
Clark and Ernest Leeves made short sales
talk a boxoffice stimulator. Ed Wilson. J. D.
Hillhouse and Ted Lewis are a committee to
invite Mayor Jimmie Temple to the next
meeting June 1. Reed Yowell will be chairman.
There will be no other meetings
through the summer tintil September.
NEW ORLEANS
T V. Seichsnaydre, Republic manager, was
back from a business trip to Na.shville
Emma Kelley, daughter of William
C. Kelley of Republic, is engaged to Leo
Muller. The wedding will be June 13 . .
.
Anita Colby, executive assistant to the head
of the Paramount .studio, was here last week
on the last lap of a 55-day tour for promotion
of "The Emperor Waltz." She visited local
newspaper offices and radio stations and was
guest speaker at a m.eeting of the Junior
Red Cross at Rabouin auditorium.
W. C. Kirkscey, assistant to the president
of Alexander Filnr Co., was here from Memphis
. Jackson. Kay Films office
manager, spent Mother's day weekend at her
home in Birmingham . of the
Union" held its place at the top of the first
run lineup last week, being held over at
Loew's State for a second week. At the
Saenger. "Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay!" was
featured. "The Miracle of the Bells" played
simultaneously at the Orpheum and the Liberty.
The Joy presented "Lady F^'om Cheyenne,"
and "High Wall" was at the Center.
The Tudor showed "Gentleman's Agreement"
and the Globe had "Saigon." The Strand's
double bill w-as "The Star Packer" and "Inside
Job."
J. H. Lutzer. southern division sales manager
of Film Classics, with headquarters in
Dallas, stopped at the local office . . . L. B. V.
Benton of Film Inspection and Ti-answay. Atlanta.
Ga.: Herb Kohlman of that company's
Memohis branch, and John Vlckers of the
Charlotte branch, were in New Orleans conferring
with M. H. Brandon of the local office.
Returns to Films After 1 1 Years
Returning to the films after 11 years Lois
Wilson has been assigned the role of Virginia
Mayo's mother in Warners' "The Girl From
Jones Beach."
Long Building laft
TAPT, TEX.—A new theatre is
imder construction
here to replace the old Texas. The
theatre will have a seating capacity of 750,
will be air conditioned and will cost approximately
$75,000. It will be operated by the
Long circuit.
SEATING
GRIGGS
^
EQUIPMENT COMPANY
Box 630 Belton, Texas
County Attorney Building
Theatre in Cold Springs
COLD SPRINGS, TEX.—James E. Faulkner
has a new theatre under construction
here. The opening will be late in the summer.
Faulkner is comity attorney of San
Jacinto county, of which Cold Springs is the
county seat. Huntsville is a few miles west.
Vesterns-Features-Serials
Tower Pictures Co.
HAROLD SCHWARZ
3021/2 S. Harwood St. C—735:
DALLAS 1,
TEXAS
NO JOB IS TOO SMALL OR TOO LARGE FOR
mmmM imm fnuipfiifoi compm
The finest lines of equipment
made are available at Southwestern
Theatre Equipment Co.
Deliveries are prompt and service is
available at
your asking.
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
Your Deal Handled Personally
27 years experience
We Cover the U. S. Mcukel
Arthur Leak
Theatre Sales Exclusively
[ V
3422 Kinmore Dallas 10. Texas
Phone T3-202G L
Southwestern Theatre Equipment Co.
2010 Jackson C-8579
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
97
f

. . Ernest
Three New Thealres
In Work at Denton
DENTON. TEX.—Tw'O drive-in theatres
will be opened here this month by two different
owners and construction will be started
soon on a de luxe 1,250-seat A house
downtown.
George Franklin of El Paso is completing
his new $75,000 drive-in near here on the
Port Worth highway. He has named it the
Colonial. He used his own heavy machinery
to move dirt and facilitate construction.
Opening is expected by the 20th.
Less pretentious is the El Rancho drivein
that Lester Dollison has been building on
the Gainesville road for the past few months.
There is speculation as to which drive-in
would open first.
Interstate Circuit, operator of the Palace,
Texas and Dreamland theatres, has completed
plans for the big indoor theatre and
will let the construction contract by early
summer. With this setup, plus two college
theatres of near 2,000 capacity each, the independently
operated 350-seat Palace and
the drive-ins, even the natives think this
town of 17.000 population will have ample
seating and open air parking space for some
time to come.
Clearance on Broadmoor
Reduced in Shreveport
NEW ORLEANS—The film arbitrator has
reduced the 60-day clearance in favor of
first run houses in Shreveport over the
Broadmoor Tlaeatre to 30 days. The award
was made in a clearance complaint filed
against the Big Five by Broadmoor Theatre,
Inc. Broadmoor originally had asked that
the clearance be reduced to ten days and
that it receive product not less than 20 days
after national release. The arbitrator denied
the second i-equest.
Trio Theatre, 550-Seater,
Lights Up in Zachary, La.
ZACHARY. LA.—The Trio Theatre opened
for business in a new building on Main street
here May 1. The theatre has a seating capacity
of 550, and will operate six days a
week. Mansel S. Slaughter of Baker, La., and
Dolfus McKowen of Plains, La., are owners.
Lufkin Gets New Theatre
For Colored Patronage
LUFKIN, TEX. — James Butler, building
contractor, is erecting a new Lincoln Theatre
for Negroes here, which he will operate. The
building is brick. Butler purchased the present
Lincoln Theatre from the Pete Stephano
interests in order to get the name and goodwill.
Altec Installations
DALLAS— Altec Lansing's Voice of the Theatre
has been purchased by the following
theatres: Tech, Ruston, La.; New Drive-In,
Victoria, Tex.: State, San Antonio, Tex.;'
Burntex, Burnet, Tex.; Hi Ho Drive-In,
Drive-In, Gainesville, Tex.; New Drive-In,
Rookdale, Tex.; Belman, Tulsa, Okla.; Ward,
Monahans, Tex.; Wallace, Levelland, Tex.;'
Rialto, Dallas, Tex.
from the BOXOFFICE Files
• • •
(Twenty Years Ago)
JJOYT G. MORROW, brother of Ralph A.
Morrow and originally Dallas manager
for the old Artcraft in 1915 under Al Lichtman,
is taking charge of the sales department
of United Artists in New Orleans
Payment of $337,500 by Paramount as alleged
damages to Ray Stinnett and S. Charninsky
of the Capitol in Dallas, has been delayed
by a court action. Refusal of product
was the basis of the award. Paramount appealed.
* * *
Jack Adams, president of Home State Film
Co., who has been in Mineral Wells for medical
treatment, was in his Dallas office
True Thompson, former exchange manager
and owner of the True Film Co., which operated
several years ago as a state right exchange,
is devoting much time to the Dallas
Little Theatre, and was starred in the opening
bill recently in ''The Swan."
* * *
. . . H. C.
J. Y. Robb, city manager for R&R at Big
Springs and brother of Harold Robb, member
of the firm, has been a Dallas visitor. Their
father, J. J. Robb, pioneer showman, is recovering
from an operation
.
Herber,
manager of Herber Bros. & Wolf, returned
from central Texas , . . Claude Ezell,
southern sales manager for Warner Bros.!
has been in Dallas Lybrand, Majestic,
Wills Point, Tex., is making improvements
to the theatre. He has been in the
show business there for 19 years . . . H. A.
Cole, president of the MPTO of Texas, and
S. G. Howell, motored to Oklahoma City from
Dallas for a convention . . . Al Stoddard has
added new furnishings at the Rex, Madisonville,
Tex. . . . R. I. "Rip" Payne, San
Antonio manager for Universal, was in Dallas
recently.
* * *
Oklahoma City: Fred Pickrel, who has been
operating two theatres in Ponca City, has
closed them, apparently due to the competition
of the free picture shows put on four
times a week by Lew Wentz, millionaire oil
man of that city . . . Floods and storms have
decreased theatre receipts in Oklahoma. A
storm and flood struck Shawnee, killed four
and did property damage estimated at $500,-
000 .. . Sol Davidson, exhibitor and salesman
in Oklahoma, has opened the Davidson Theatre
Supply Co. at 108 South Hudson St. . . .
Pete Harrison was in from Pitcher where he
operates the Gaiety . . . F. E. Wright is improving
the Wright at Gurdon, Ark.
700-Seat Rialto Is Opened
By Hall in Beeville, Tex.
BEEVILLE, TEX.—P. D. Nance, manager
for Hall Industries, announced that the new
air conditioned, 700-seat Rialto Theatre
would be opened the night of May 14.
Dissolve Partnership
PORTLAND, TEX.—G. P. Lee and A. D.
Fritz, co-owners of the 500-seat, air conditioned
Portland Theatre, which opened in
November 1946. have dissolved partnership
and have decided to sell the theatre. It will
be auctioned off to the highest bidder.
Answers Due Soon
In Adelman's Suits
WILMINGTON, DEL.—Texas Consolidated
Theatres, the Interstate circuit and eight distributing
companies must file answers in federal
court here this month to two damage
actions brought against them by I. B. Adelman
under the antitrast laws.
They have until May 15 to reply to the
complaint brought by the Tivoli Realty Co.,
of which Adelman is president and principal
stockholder, in which damages of $750,000 are
asked, and until May 29 to reply to a suit in
which Adelman is personally suing for $2,436,-
000 for alleged losses in operation of the Delman
Theatre in Houston as a result of an
alleged conspiracy among the defendants.
Defendants, along with the theatre companies,
are Paramount, Loew's. RKO, 20th-
Fox, Columbia, United Artists, Warner Bros.
and Universal.
Dallas Variety to Distribute
Full Financial Report
DALLAS—Julius Schepps, chief barker of
the Variety Club, told members at the monthly
meeting Monday that the full financial
statement of the club would be on file in
Manager Jack Bi-yant's office for any barker
to see at any time. He said he would make it
a point to see that all members be furnished
any information they desire about club affairs.
Tlie club has over $100,000 in the bank, he
said, but he doesn't believe this type of revelation
will cause any barker to slacken in
his effort to help the club raise additionally
needed funds for its growing charity objectives.
Schepps said this regular bank account
was not to be confused with the cash assets
of the Variety Foimdation, which now has In
its coffers more than half a million dollars.
Bill McCraw, national executive director,
gave an outline of the various tents' charity
commitments for this year in line with disclosures
made at the Miami convention. Bill
O'Etonnell, past chief barker, made an advance
pitch for next fall's turtle derby. Although
the date hasn't been set, he passed
out turtle books and told workers to get
going.
'Echo Ranch' at Poteet
POTEET, TEX.—The Avon Theatre here
was the scene of the first showing May 2
and 3 of the Universal-International tworeel
musical, "Echo Ranch." Filmed on a
ranch near this strawberry raising center,
the picture stars San Antonio's Red River
Dave and includes Diane Hart, the Texas
Tophands, Jack Jackson, a San Antonio
businessmen, and others. Miss Hart, a former
Conover girl, was in San Antonio, this week
organizing her own band and revue for a
tour of leading cities in the southwest.
Her show will feature novelty, hillbilly and
western numbers.
Sign With Altec
DALLAS—Altec Service has signed agreements
with the following for sound servicing:
Colonial Drive-In at Long view; Texan
Drive-In at Midland; Sunshine Theatre in
Clovis. N. M., and Fox Theatre in Gibeland,
La.
98
BOXOFFICE ;
: May
15, 1948

'
selected
. . Stan
. . Oscar
. . Robert
. .
. .
—
—
Tom Jefferson lo Quit
Paramount in Miami
MIAMI—Tom Jefferson, advertising and
publicity director for Paramount theatres in
this area the last eight
years, has resigned,
effective June 1. He
will join Jerry Jackson
to form the advertising
and publicity firm
of Jackson & Jefferson.
Jef fer son was a
member of the Paramount
home office advertising
department
before coming to
Miami. He formerly
had been with the
Schine and Prudential circuits.
Tom Jefferson
Jackson has been operating an art and
prcxluction service. Graphic Arts, for a number
of years in Miami.
Reservations Being Taken
For Carolinas Convention
CHARLOTTE — Reservations are being
received at
the office of the Theatre Owners
of North and South Carolina for the annual
summer convention June 20-22 at the Ocean
Forest hotel in Myrtle Beach, S. C. The convention
will be on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
George D. Carpenter, president, and
Mrs. Waiter Griffith, secretary, have sent
notices to members that single rooms at the
hotel will be $12 and $14, and double rooms
from $20 to $24, with parlors $8 extra. Because
the TON&SC convention follows immediately
after another conclave at the hotel,
those attending will not be able to get into
their rooms imtil 3 p. m. Sunday.
Oldest, Youngest Mothers
Honored on Mother's Day
COLUMBUS. GA.—The Bradley Theatre
the city's most unusual mothers in
a contest tied in with Mother's day. The
yoimgest mother, oldest mother and mother
with the most children were selected. Youngest
mother was 16, the oldest 90. Fourteen
children were counted by the mother having
the most offspring. Winners and their families
were entertained by the theatre and
dinner. The mothers later were introduced
from the stage and given several gifts.
HUNTS"VILLE, ALA.—A Mother's day party
given by the Center Theatre featured selection
of the oldest mother, youngest mother,
mother with the most living children, youngest
grandmother, mother with the most living
grandchildren and the mother who has been
married the longest. The program was broadcast
over wnBS and 'WUBS-FM. One to
three valuable gifts were awarded each
mother called to the stage during the party.
Roebuck Drive-In Opens
ROEBUCK SPRINGS, ALA.—The new
550-car Roebuck Drive-In on the Trusville
highway between here and Huffman, opened
May 4. It is equipped with in-car speakers,
and is owned by Waters Theatre Co.
BIRMINGHAM 200 at Variety Party
p B. VVilby visited here, accompanied by
J. H. Harrison, Wilby-Kincey booker,
and Fred Coleman, his brother-in-law .
Francis S. Falkenburg, Alabama manager,
has been appointed by chairman William
Engel as publicity chairman of Birmingham's
1948 Community Chest drive.
W. E. Craig, Wylam manager for Waters,
is on vacation. He is being relieved by Fritz
May, who will manage the new Shades Mountain
Drive-In here . Wiggins, former
Avondale manager for Waters, has resigned.
Marvin Kelly is new relief manager
for the circuit.
The Carver Theatre is being razed preparatoiy
to start of construction on a new house
for Negroes on the present site . . . The
Birmingham Theatre, recently converted into
an all-Negro house, has completed its marquee
on 17th street. Manager Harry W.
Roberts is conducting a talent contest each
Friday night at the house, offering prizes of
$15, $10 and $5.
Herman Silverman of Wometco Theatres,
Miami, was a visitor . H. M. Addison, EL
. .
publicity man, was back in towii. along with
Spence Pierce, 20th-Fox. Addison was working
on "Ruthless," which opened at the Melba
May 13 . . . Mi-s. Mildred Geiger, secretary
to Frank 'V. Merritt of Acme Theatres, is
visiting her. parents in Roselle, N. J., while
her husband, John W. Geiger. is undergoing
treatment at Elizabeth General hospital,
Mrs. John Douglas, wife
Elizabeth, N. J. . . .
of the assistant manager of Acme Theatres,
is new cashier at the Capitol.
Ollie Haynes, Lyric manager, spent Mother's
day with his family in Anniston, Ala. . . .
F^-ed Tinkard, Lyric projectionist, is planning
to spend his vacation taking in the Memorial
day speedway race in Indianapolis.
Ted Saizis, local cameraman, has returned
from Panama City, Fla., with 400 feet of exclusive
shots of Alabama's Gov. James E.
Folsom and his new bride. The Folsoms were
spending their honeymoon at the beach.
Saizis shot the scenes for Fox Movietone .
Ernest Brown is new chief usher at the
Empire . Goodman, Paramount
News cameraman, tried unsuccessfully to get
some courtroom shots of the trial of U.S. Sen.
Glen Taylor on charges of disorderly conduct.
The senator was arrested at a Southern Negro
Youth congress meeting here. Police Commissioner
Eugene Connor ruled that no pictures,
still or motion, could be taken of the
trial.
S. W. Whatley, Ensley projectionist, is on
vacation . . . William Tate, Galax projectionist
who has been ill about two months, is recuperating
and is expected to return to work
soon . Malotte, Alabama organist,
thought "Dance of the Cuckoo" was the winning
tune on Stop the Music radio program.
But his face turned a deep red after a woman
won the nationwide contest by correctly
identifying the tune as "Army Duff." Malotte
had to hastily revise his program for the remainder
of the week.
"State of the Union" won a second week
at the Ritz. Only other repeater was "Panhandle,"
which moved to the Capitol after a
week at the Melba.
After Golf Tourney
CHARLOTTE—Two hundred barkers and
their wives attended a cocktail party and dinner-dance
at the El Morocco supper club following
the annual golf tournament of the
Charlotte Variety Club at the Carolina Golf
coui-se.
Prizes were distributed to 24 winners in the
golf and horseshoe-pitching contests and
other prizes were given to the women. The
events were arranged by committees headed
by Scott Lett, chairman of the outside entertainment
committee, and E. E. Dyer, head of
the golf subcommittee.
George Graves and B. B. Martin, with
scores of 84 each, tied for the low gro.ss prize
and each got a set of matched woods. Other
prize winners in this category, in the order
of their finish, were Milton Yeoman, W. G.
Boling, A. L. Stout, Barney Slaughter, F. E.
Dyer, Hal Keeter and Olin Mock.
Low net score was 70, turned in by John
Dineer. He won a sport coat. Tommy Thompson
and Dean Lynch tied for second place
with scores of 71, and trailing them were
Don Graham, J. D. Brinkley, L. A. Linder,
Frank Strange. Paul Cockrill, Roy Smart,
Jimmy Austin and Roy Rosser.
Low gross for nine holes was Bob Hames's
43. Following him was Barney Ross. Morris
Nuger got a prize for having the high gross
and high net. Charlie Leonard won the
horseshoe-pitching contest.
Weather and Films Good
So Is Atlanta Business
ATLANTA—The weather was good, pictures
were good and business was good at all
theatres here last week.
(Average is 100)
Loew's Grand—Slate of the Union (MGM).
2nd wk 105
Fox—Unconquered (Para) IIS
Paramount Smart Woman (Mono) 100
Roxy The Big Clock (Para), holdover from
Fox - 100
Tower Fun on a Weekend (UA); Hal Roach
Comedy Carnival (UA) lOZ
Talgar to Build Drive-In
FORT PIERCE, FLA —Purchase of a tract
of land on highway 1 for erection of a 400-
car drive-in theatre was announced here by
B. B. Garner, president of the Talgar Theatre
Co. of Lakeland and a partner of the
Koblegard interests here. Construction is expected
to begin immediately.
Let Us Figure
with you on your
THEATRE OR DRIVE-IN
EQUIPMENT
Write, wire or phone
THE QUEEN FEATURE SERVICE, INC.
Complete Theatrical Equipment
and Supplies
I912'/2 Morris Avenue
Birmingham.
Alabama
Serving the Southern Exhibitor for 35 Years
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 SE 99

. . . One
. . AI
ATLANTA
Cign on local theatre: "Two Big Features
Piperoo, One Stinkeroo" . Rook,
former manager here for Columbia, visited
on Filmrow . . . Ditto Lucky Stein, the Florida
and Georgia theatre owner; O. C. Lam
and Howard Schussler, Lam Amusement Co.;
Col. T. E. Orr, Albertville, Ala.; Wallace
Smith and John Carter, Brookhaven, Ga.
Charlie Durmeyer, president of Southern
Automatic Candy Co., celebrated a birthday
recently. He had as guest George Cornell of
Decatur, Ala. . . . Best wishes to Mack Jackson,
owner of the Strand and Jackson theatres
in Alexander City, Ala., who is celebrating
30 years in the theatre business . . .
WESTERNS?

Acme Banner Raised
Over Five Theatres
BIRMINGHAM—Acme Theatres Co. has
taken over five neighborhood houses which
formerly were operated in partnership with
Waters Theatre Co. The five houses are the
East Lake, Avondale. Woodlawn, North Birmingham
and Tan-ant City. A sixth house,
the Five Points, is being retained by Waters
after dissolution of a partnership with Frank
V. Merritt, head of Acme.
The changes are in accordance with a court
decree issued by Circuit Judge Eugene H.
Hawkins.
Two permanent managers have been named
by Acme. They are T. J. Bain, formerly of
the Cullman Theatre. Cullman. Ala., who
will manage the Avondale, and Bill Hampton,
formerly Tarrant City manager for
Waters, who will return to that house. The
three other houses are being handled temporarily
by present Acme employes until
permanent managers can be named. John
Douglas, assistant to Men-itt. is managing
the North Birmingham house: Harry M. Curl.
Melba manager, is handling Woodlawn. and
Henry Hury, Cullman manager, is serving at
East Lake.
Duncan-Richards Buys
Theatre in HefUn, Ala.
HEFLIN. ALA.—The Hefhn Theatre has
been purchased by Duncan-Richards Theatres
of CarroUton. Ga., from John Gaither.
owner since 1937.
G. E. Duncan was here from Carrollton to
arrange details of the transfer. He announced
that Paul Cable, director of music in Heflin
schools, would manage the theatre. Mrs.
Christine Turner will be cashier, with Billie
Ruth Pounds in charge of the sweet shop.
Wendell Brown will continue as operator,
with Bill Cook as relief.
Gaither has not announced his future
plans, but will remain with his family for the
time being.
Crescent Offers to Buy
DuPont in Old Hickory
NASHVILLE—An offer to purchase the
theatre in Old Hickory. Tenn.. from the Du-
Pont Co. has been made by Crescent Amusement
Co. of Nashville. The offer, it was
learned, is in connection with DuPont's program
to sell all commercial property in the
company-owned town. Amount of the offer
was not disclosed.
Crescent, meanwhile, filed a petition in
federal court seeking approval of the contemplated
purchase. Under the terms of an
antitrust decree, the theatre company must
have court approval for purchase of any theatre
outside Nashville.
MEMPHIS
Cteve Stein, operator of Met and Met-N-
Mov-E theatres, Jackson. Tenn.. is back
on the job wearing a number of bandages as
a result of an auto accident while en route
here on business. Stein lost control of his
car and it ran off the road. He was treated
at a local hospital . . . The Palace in Booneville.
Ark., ovmed by E. W. Savage, has
opened for the summer.
Road and highway conditions in the midsouth
temtory, which have been very bad
since last January's record cold weather, are
improving and theatre attendance is picking
up. Exhibitors report that many persons living
in outlying sections have resumed trips
to picture shows in nearby towns since roads
have been fixed. Film Ti-ansit reports many
highway improvements. For example, shipments
of film to Booneville. Miss, have improved
and pictures may now be returned
overnight instead of within two days as in
the past.
Ben Y. Cammack, southwest district manager.
Dallas, was a visitor at RKO . . . David
Flexer of Flexer Theatres, returned from
New York where he has been on business in
connection with his building program of
drive-ins . . . Duke
Clark, district manager.
Dallas, was a visitor at Paramount . . . The
Base Theatre, Goslin, Ark., has set May 19
for its opening date. Gordon Hutchins,
owner, also operates the Dixie at Corning
. . N. B. Blount, manager of Monarch
.
Theatre Supply Co., held a series of conferences
this week with Walter Gilreath. Dallas,
district manager, RCA. Dallas, who is in
on business.
Midsouth exhibitors booking on Filmiow
included L. J. Denning. YMCA. Bemis: H. C.
Langford, Folly. Marks: R. A. demons, Dixy,
Adamsville: W. F. Sormeman, Ozark Amusement
Co., Fayetteville; W. F. Wofford, Union,
Union: J. T. James, James, Cotton Plant:
Amelia Ellis, Mason. Mason: L. P. Haven jr..
Imperial at Forrest City. Brinkley. Marianna
and Wynne: Mr. and Mrs. Orris Collings.
Capitol and Majestic, Paragould.
From the Collier circuit which operates
theatres in Benoit, Drew, Shaw and Ruleville.
Miss., came C. J. Collier, Mrs. C. H.
Collier. Mrs. Valerie Burke and Bim Jackson.
Also Jimmy Sharum. Chandelle. Walnut
Ridge; Norman Fair. Fair. Somerville: Henley
Smith. Imperial. Pocahontas: James C.
Fisher, Hoxie, Hoxie: Mrs. Jack Wilbanks,
Hinz, Walnut Ridge: Jeff Singleton. Tyro.
Tyronza: F. G. "Sunshine" Daugherty, Palace,
West Helena: 'Whyte Bedford, Marion,
Hamilton; Morris Brown, Webb, Ripley, and
J. R. Keller, Joyner, Joyner.
Others included Roy Bolick, Kaiser, Kaiser;
Fitz Farris, Harlen, Clarksdale; H. W. Pickens.
Lyle at Carhsle and Rex at DuVall's Bluff:
J. W. Crabtree. Merlu. Clarendon: J. K.
Jamison. Ritz. Bald Knob: Mrs. H. L. Love,
Bono and Egypt operator: Bruce Young,
booker for Mohrstadt circuit. Hayti; C. A.
Gilliland, Cooler at Cooter and Semo at
Steele.
Also Henry Furr, Booker T., Cleveland;
Nathan Reiss, Bruce, Bruce: J. C. Bonds, Von.
Hernando: G. L. Helms. Hill. Scott's Hill:
J. M. Mounger. Mart. Calhoun City; Louise
Mask. Luez, Bolivar; D. D. Flippin. Flippin,
Brag City, and Jack Watson. Palace, Tunica.
Ruby Estes, branch manager's secretary
at Universal, was visiting her mother in Decatur,
111. ... S. J. A. McCarthy, New York,
and J. E. Harrison, St. Louis, were Universal
officials visiting the local exchange . . . Tom
Young, manager of 20th-Fox, has been ill at
home with a severe cold. George F. Cooper,
auditor, is working at the exchange. W. J.
Kupper. New York, short subjects man, was a
visitor . . . Bill Scruggs, head shipper at
RKO, has a new Plymouth
Pashby, cashier at
. . . Dorothy
RKO, has resigned.
. .
A baby girl was bom April 25 to Mrs. Eva
Mai Denton and Mr. Denton at Oxford, Miss.
Mrs. Denton is a former booker at MGM . . .
Virginia Redmond, stenographer at Paramount,
had her tonsils removed . . .
John S.
Goshom, chair expert from Canal Fulton.
Ohio, was at National Theatre Supply on
business . The Star. Star City, Ark., owned
by W. R. Lee, had a minor booth fire.
This was Cotton Carnival week here with
parades, street dances and royal balls. Theatres,
which usually suffer in attendance
unless it rains during the carnival, were "all
set" this year by arranging a series of top
pictures. Loew's State was setting the pace
with a second big week of "State of the
Union."
The Linden Circle was the scene of the
annual meeting and party for Junior Safety
council boys last Saturday. These are the
youngsters who help school children across
the streets to and from school. There was a
stage show and a picture for their program.
Tri-State Theatre Service & Supply
318 South Second Street
MEMPHIS 3, TENN.
Complete Theatre Decorating
Stage Drapes
BEST IN QUALITY
riLMACK
Green Light for Philips
FRAYSER. TENN.—M. L. Philips, whose
theatre job in the heart of the downtown section
was stopped April 6 by the county attorney
after citizens complained the structure
looked unsafe, has received the county's permission
to proceed with construction. The
theatre will cost approximately $50,000.
MONARCH
THEATRE SUPPLY. Inc.
Neil Blount
492 So. Second St.
Memphis. Tenn.
THREE
NEW YORK
245 w«jt
55ihSi.
BEST IN SERVICE
COMPLETELY EQUIPPED PLANTS
LOS ANGELES
1574 W.
Woihington
CHICAGO
1327 S.
Woboih
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948
101

. . LawTence
. . Harry
. .
. . . Faw
. . H.
. . Frost
. . Ruby
. . Betty
CHARLOTTE
JJenry Krumm, division manager for Selznick
Releasing Organization, was here to
install J, Sam Hinson as manager of the
Carolina branch. Offices are located at 123
North Popular St. Acompanying Krumm was
G. B. Davis, special representative . . . Hy
Jacobson, Warner booker, is on leave to visit
his sick wife in New Haven . Williams,
former United Artists salesman, came
back to Charlotte this week from California.
He is .seriously ill and is hospitalized
.
Robert Kidd. formerly office manager for
Paramount, has joined Warners as booker.
John Calvert, magician who has been
signed for the role of the Falcon in the Falcon
series of pictures produced by Film
Classics, is making a personal appearance
tour through the Carolinas. He opened at
Durham and will appear at the Broadway
in Charlotte May 21 and 22.
Harry Haas, Paramount manager; Lawrence
Terrell, office manager: salesmen E. C.
DeBerry, Paul Cockrill and Ed Chumley, and
Everett Olsen. exploiteer, are in New York
attending the eastern and southern division
sales conference
. Terrell, Paramount
office manager, was mighty proud of
his vegetable garden. Hard work was bringing
results. But one morning he looked out
and discovered vandals had taken over. His
tomato plants were stolen and the rest of
the vegetables broken off to the ground.
For Better Theatre
Maintenance
fill all your requirements
from our complete stock of
PARTS FOR ALL EQUIPMENT
JANITORIAL SUPPLIES
ARTISTS SUPPLIES
CARBONS
A new drive-in is being built at Fayetteville,
N. C, by J. G, WeUons. It is to be
called the Sky View and will open about
July 4. Wellons is spending approximately
$100,000 on the layout. All equipment is being
furnished by Wil-Kin Theatre Supply.
Wil-Kin also supplied similar equipment for
the High Point-Thomasville drive-in owned
by Prank Beddingfield and Tom Little .
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Griffith and Watt L.
Parker will spend Sunday and Monday, May
16, 17, at Myrtle Beach perfecting arrangements
for the summer convention of the
Theatre Owners of North and South Carolina,
which will be held at the Ocean Forest hotel
June 20-22.
Visitors on the Row: George Hughes and
E. L. Hearne of Albemarle, N. C; Mrs. Runa
Greenleaf and John W. Curtis of Liberty,
N. C: Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Arrlngton
of Rocky Mount, N. C; Mr. and Mrs. C. A.
Dandelake of Tarboro, N. C; Lyle M. Wilson
of Roanoke Rapids, N. C; R. C. Whitehurst
of Murfrecsboro, N. C: Charles E. Myers jr.
of Rich Square, N. C; R. D. McGowan of
Spring Hope, N. C; Sonny Baker of Valdese.
N. C: William Conn of Gastonia. N. C;
Mrs. B. B. Anderson and Howard Anderson
of the Anderson circuit, Mullins, S. C; Tom
Fleming of York, S. C, and J. B. Harvey of
Clover, S. C.
J. W. Mitchell, owner and operator of theatres
in Spencer and Rockwell, N. C, is building
a drive-in on the Salisbury-China Grove
highway
. M. Gibbs, for the last ten
years projectionist at the Visulite Theatre
has been named manager of the High Point
Drive-In on the highway between High Point
and Thomasville. The theatre is owned and
operated by Frank H. Beddingfield and T. A.
Little of Charlotte. Gibbs will take over his
new duties May 31. He has been in the
theatre business for more than 20 years.
His
wife and two children will follow him to High
Point within two or three weeks.
A new drive-in is being built in Liberty,
N. C, by Henry Staley, W. P. Holder and
T. G. Holder. They expect to open June 1
brothers are building a drive-in at
Belmont, N. C, and will open about June 1.
George D. Carpenter, Valdese, N. C, president
of the Theatre Owners of North and
South Carolina: Ben L. Strozier, Rock Hill,
S. C, past president and now vice-president
of the association, and their wives motored
WIL-KIN,
CHABLOTTE, N. C.
ATLANTA, GA.
"Everything for the theatre except film"
City Threatens to Close
'Hazardous' Theatres
GREENVILLE, MISS. — Demands have
been made by the city council upwn the management
of five local theatres to either comply
with fire regulations or close their doors.
The theatres could be closed, officials said,
if they do not comply with the regulations
or if unable to show a satisfactory reason for
not making the improvements. City Attorney
J. Albert Lake said that the city has authority
to impose a $100 fine on the party responsible
and sentence him to 30 days in jail for failure
to comply with regulations.
Theatres listed by Fire Chief A. Z. Lokey
as having violated safety regulations are the
Paramount, Delta, Lake, Harlem and Lincoln.
A. J. LeVay Leases Harbor
SAFETY HARBOR, FLA.—A. J. LeVay,
who returned to Safety Harbor after serving
for some time in the navy, will have, charge
of the Harbor Theatre during the summer.
M. Leventhal, owner of the Harbor, had
planned to close the place during the summer.
.
to Charleston, S. C, last week and boarded
the J. Don Alexander yacht for a trip to
Morehead City Ritchie, Republic
billing clerk, is out after an appendectomy
. . . Mrs. Carl Bamford of the Publix-Bamford-Asheville
organization has turned contractor.
She's building a house in Asheville,
The Carolina Drive-In Theatre at the junction
of highways 29 and 73 at Concord, N. C,
will hold its premiere Friday night. The
theatre is owned and operated by D. H. Jernigan
and A. J. Biggart of Lancaster, S. C,
and R. G. Covington of Greensboro, who
also owns the Motor Inn Drive-In Theatre
at Lancaster, S. C. The theatre has a capacity
of 325 cars and is equipped with in-car
speakers. More than 3 000 feet of aluminum
was used for fencing. Equipment was installed
by the Standard Theatre Supply Co.
of Charlotte and Greensboro.
A. A. Schubart, RKO exchange operations
manager, who was on an automobile vacation
trip to Georgia with his wife and mother,
dropped into the local exchange and tried to
line up additional vault space to relieve a congested
situation . . . Another RKO visitor,
Frank Duffy of the home office, left after
ten weeks for Atlanta, where he will spend
a week or two before proceeding to Oklahoma
City. Milton Yeoman, who was here assisting
Duffy, left with his wife for an assignment
in Kansas City.
The Charlotte RKO branch finished third
in the Ned Depinet drive, behind Salt Lake
City and Oklahoma City . . . Bill Prager,
RKO exploiteer. flew in from Washington to
set up campaigns on "I Remember Mama"
and "Fort Apache" over the Wilby-Kincey
circuit and "The Miracle of the Bells" in
Asheville . . . Paramount and RKO has organized
a team which will play in the Softball
league
. Branon, son of the RKO
branch manager, celebrated his sixth birthday
May 10 . . . Deanie Etheridge has been
promoted at RKO from PBX operator to
boxoffice clerk and was replaced by Margaret
Luckey .
Poovey of the RKO
staff spent a weekend at her home in Granite
Palls.
i
102
BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

Odeon, F&H in Battle
Over Common Alley
HALIFAX—A controversy that threatens to
wind up in court has developed betwegn
Odeon Theatres of Canada and the new
Vogue Theatre, opened April 29 by Franklin
& Herschorn. over use of a nine-foot alleyway
between the Vogue and the Odeon-owned
Casino Theatre.
Six feet of the alley is owned by Odeon and
the balance by the F&H circuit. The alley
penetrates beyond the end of each building.
Singularly, at the end of the Vogue
building, is about 15 feet of unused space
owned by Odeon. Efforts of F&H to buy that
piece of property, which is exactly the width
of the Vogue, have failed.
Odeon now has notified F&H that a fence
will be erected the full length of the alley at
the property dividing line, which would leave
only a three-foot margin for the Vogue. This
would affect two exits on the right side of the
neW' structure. The notice has come from Abe
Garson, maritime manager for Odeon. and
w'ho has his base at St. John. He has notified
F&H that he will rent the major space in the
alley, for $2,500 per year, on a 15-year lease,
and thus not put up the fence. Both the
Casino and Commiunity, predecessors of the
Vogue, used the alley for emergency exits
about a quarter century.
F&H has refused to pay the price demanded
and proposes to take out an injunction at
the first sign of a fence being set up. The
circuit contends that the alley has become
public domain because of having been used
over 20 years and because it was unfenced
during that time. P&H has recemented a sixfoot
width of the alley from the sidewalk to
the end of its building.
A fence, in addition to affecting the two
exits, would hamper deliveries of supplies
for the Vogue fountain and lunch bar, fuel,
etc. and removal of garbage.
'Whispering' to England
MONTREAL—Quebec Productions at St.
Hyacinthe has reached a financial agreement
with the British government for the distribution
in England and on the British market of
its first film. "Whispering City," it was
learned here from a letter received from Rene
Germain, president of Quebec Productions,
now in Europe. Germa'n said the British
government has agreed to grant Quebec Productions
the same privileges granted American
films. He also announced the showing
in Paris. Fi-ance, soon of "La Forteresse" the
French-language version of "Whispering
City."
Washroom Bandits Sentenced
MONTREAL—Convicted on charges of
theft and attempted theft of money from
two men in uptown motion picture theatre
washrooms, Adelard Paquette, 19, was sentenced
by Judge Gustave Marin to three
years in the penitentiary.
Two others, Mario
Ouellette, and Gilbert Laprade, both 18, were
sentenced to two years in prison.
More United Amusement Business
MONTREAL — Busine.ss of the United
Amusements Corp. increased during the first
quarter of this year over the similar period
of last year, shareholders were told by the
president at the annual meeting here. Directors
were re-elected and reports adopted.
FPCWillSpend3 Millions
On Old and New Theatres
TORONTO — "Famous Players Canadian
Corp. is planning to spend in the neighborhood
of $3,000,000 in remodeling existing theatres
and building new ones," J. J. Fitzgibbons,
president, reported at the annual meeting
of shareholders here recently. "The company
has under construction or in the blueprint
stages at least 18 new theatres for
1948."
Fitzgibbons branded as discriminatory the
proposals of several provincial governments
to impose amusement taxes on theatres.
"The collection of amusement taxes for
federal and provincial governments, in addition
to the handling of forms for deductions
of taxes from employes' wages, unemployment
insurance, sales tax, etc., have added
materially to our cost of operation," Fitzgibbons
said. "For example, in 1947 we weie
obliged to handle over $8,000,000 in various
amusement taxes alone. Now it has been announced
that when the Dominion government
vacates the amusement tax field the
province of Ontario intends to put a 20 per
cent tax on theatre tickets. Manitoba is considering
a tax of 25 per cent on all tickets
over 25 cents and British Colimiibia plans
to impose a tax of 20 per cent.
CONDEMNS PROVINCIAL LEVY
"The 20 per cent tax imposed by the
Dominion government was strictly a wartime
measure. Such a tax imposed by the provinces
would be out of all proportion. It will have
a direct effect upon people in the lower income
brackets who can least afford to pay
a premiiun on the type of amusement which
MOUNTIES SrONSOU FILM—\ group
of school children was entertained by
the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at
of how the force solved a crime, and
the New Bedford Theatre in Bedford.
Que., recently. A portion of the crowd is
pictured here outside the theatre. The
mounties took over the theatre for the
showings of "The Connor Case," a chronicle
the children and their teachers heard
an address by Sergt. Smith on "Youth
and the Police."
has come to be recognized as almost an essential."
Fitzgibbons stated that the company's realty
taxes and other taxes for Famous Playeis
and affiliates run well over $1 000,000 annually
plus in the neighborhood of $3,000,000
in income taxes which, added to the amusement
taxes, meant that the company was
handling close to $12,000,000 annually in one
form or another.
"For many years," he said, "an exceptionally
fine job of public relations has been
done by our publicity department. A particularly
good job has been done in the field
of employe-employer relations by James R.
Nairn, head of that department, and his staff
through our company publication. What's
New, and other media. Excellent promotion
work has been accomplished by this department
through juvenile shows for children
and the sale of gift tickets, which, as you
know, has become an important phase of
our operation. Many features instituted by
this department have been copied in the
United States by some of the bigger circuits.
TRIBUTE TO PUBLICITY DEPT.
"I just call this to your attention because
I think the publicity department has been
the last to receive credit because it is something
that cannot be put into figures on the
balance sheet. I think the head of the department,
his assistant Jack Barker, Jimmy
Cameron and Bert Brown deserve comment
for the tremendous job they have done which
has made a substantial contribution to the
balance sheet of this company."
Fitzgibbons paid tribute to Peter D Brown,
president of General Theatre Supply Co. "It
is a source of great satisfaction to all of us
to know that when we plan to build or remodel
a theatre we can be assured of obtaining
the finest in projection and sound equipment
through Brown." he said. "And in spite
of all restrictions and difficulties this company
maintained its service all during the
war years."
Fitzgibbons called the attention to the
fine job being done by the maintenance,
construction and purchasing departments
headed by Jules Wolfe in the east and John
Ferguson in Winnipeg and John McCausland
in Vancouver.
HAS FINE ORGANIZATION
"If you have visited the Nortown or any
other new theatre we have recently opened
I think you will agree that we have in Mr.
Wolfe and his staff headed by Jack Harper,
an exceptionally fine organization. Also in
the west we have been able to add two
supervisors with architectural training, to our
staff. Both John Ferguson and John Mc-
Causland who have taken over the work of
the late Vic Armand. are doing splendid
jobs."
The president stressed the growing importance
of confections in the company's operations
and told of the recent merger through
which Theatre Confections. Ltd.. an FPC subsidiary,
took over the assets, w'arehousing and
services of Hollywood Confections, Ltd., under
the presidency of John J. Fitzgibbons jr.
He said Theatre Confections has established
(Continued on next page)
BOXOFFICE :: May 15, 1948 K 107

—
—
FPC Head Criticizes
Ticket Levy Moves
(Continued from preceding page)
a branch in Vancouver under Kevin Fitzgibbons
and would shortly open another
branch in Winnipeg under the direction of
Ken Wells.
Fitzgibbons pointed out that the company
spent about $1,200,000 a year in newspaper
advertising and another $600,000 in other
forms of advertising. The company now has
an annual pay roll of about $6,000,000, he
said.
"It might interest you to know that oiutheatres
are not used exclusively for the
presentation of motion pictures," said Fitzgibbons.
"Recently a church was burned
down in Sudbiu-y and our manager turned
our theatre over to the congregation without
charge until the people can build another
house of worship. Om- theatres were used
for public benefits on nimierous occasions.
In Cornwall we helped with the disaster
relief benefit. During the period of the
miners' strike in Glace Bay we distributed,
through civic agencies, free tickets to provide
entertainment for people who could not
afford to pay for theatre tickets. We have
cooperated with the government. Red Cross,
Salvation Army and other agencies by presenting
appeal messages on our screens without
charge."
The board of directors and officers were reelected.
Ask Soviet Film Ban
TORONTO—The Ontario division of the
Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire
has asked the Ontario censors board to
impose a total ban on the public and private
showing of Soviet films. The request was
adopted at the annual convention attended
by representatives of 385 provincial chapters.
\ America's
FOR SALE:
THEATRE CHAmS
We now have a very large slock ol excellent
reconditioned (as new) Theatre Chairs
Quantities up to 1200 of a kind
tttMEDIATE DELIVERY
NOW — New all-steel construction sprinaedge.
highest quality theatre chairs available.
7500 yards of imported carpet direct from
England and Scotland
Inquiries Respectfully Solicited
LA SALLE RECREATIONS LTD.
(Theatre Seating and Carpet Division)
S. A. LECHTZIEH, Pres.
945 Gronville St. Vancouver. B. C.
_
Student Ban on Theatres
Is Lifted at Sackville
SACKVILiLE, N. B.—The coeds of Momit
Allison imiversity here exercised their feminine
prerogative to change their minds almost
overnight. Soon after joming with the male
students to vote unanimously to continue
their boycott on the Vogue and Imperial,
when demands for reduced prices were refused,
another ballot was taken. All the
coeds voted to lift the ban, whereas all
or practically all the boys favored continuance
of the strike aimed at the two boxoffices.
The all-student margin was very
slight in favor of lifting the ban.
Some of the students advocated resimiption
of the boycott when the college reopens
in September. The lifting of the boycott is
of minor value to the theatres since the
college will close for the summer this month.
The boycott was effective about three weeks.
Sackville high school students also abandoned
their boxoffice boycott. The girls found
abstaining from film shows too tough to prolong.
They deluged both theatres for several
days after the boycott was vacated.
There had been no compromise negotiations
between M. E. Walker, head of the Walker-
Affiliated chain and the Students union.
Denis Mm-phy manages both Sackville houses.
Bad Weather Assists
Calgary Business
CALGARY—Unseasonable and wet weather
continued to keep Calgarians show-minded
and theatres were doing nice average business.
Even a four-day engagement of "Ice
Cycles" did not make much of a dent in
theatre receipts. Most of the "Ice Cycles" seats
had been booked in advance and each patron
only went once so that motion picture fans
did not interrupt their showgoing. The arrival
of belated warm weather, showing signs
of coming, is going to give theatres an awful
setback.
Capitol—Magic Town (RKO) Fait
Grand—Master of Bankdam (EL); I'll Be Your
Sweetheart (EL) _ Good
Palac^High Woll (MGM) Good
Vancouver Managers Glum;
'Naked City' Opens Strong
VANCOUVER—Managers of first rim theatres
were crying the blues last week, though
two of the season's top grossers managed to
top average.
Capitol—Cass Timberlane (MGM) Fair
Cinema—Bambi (RKO) Fair
Orpheum-The Bishop's Wife (RKO), 2nd wk Good
Park and Plaza Song of My Heart (Mono). ...Moderate
Paradise Intrigue (UA); Carnival (EL) Fair
Strand—Night Song (RKO); Blondie in the
Dough (Col)
Poor
Vogue—The Naked City (U-I) Excellent
WAHOO
Finest Screen Came
HOUYWOOO AMUSEMENT CO.. B31 S. WABASH AVE.. ^IHICAGO
'
Says 25-Cycle No Bar
To Video in Ontario
TORONTO—Television programs can be
picked up at limited distances in Ontario
despite the fact that the province has 25-
cycle power, the Canadian Institute of Radio
Engineers was inforined last week by Orin
Dakin of the Canadian General Electric Co.
He said video sets can work on 25-cycle
power and that such sets will work equally
as well on 60-cycle power. It will be about
ten years before Ontario completes the
switch from 25 to 60-cycle power.
Though television has not started in Canada
yet, several areas are in close proximity
to television stations in the U.S. Among
these cities is Windsor, across the river from
Detroit, and Niagara Palls and Hamilton,
which are near Buffalo. Toronto, 55 miles
by air from Buffalo, is out of the present
range.
H. Goldin of Gaumont-Kalee of Toronto
reported to the meeting that televised entertainment
will be available to 75 per cent
of the population in England by 1952 and
will be on a regular basis in London theatres
by the end of this year. Tests in London
have shown that theatre patrons are
enthusiastic for video programs both for information
and entertainment, Goldin said.
ST. JOHN
per many years Johnny Farr toured theatres
as a ventriloquist, then settled down
as owner-manager of the Rivoli in North
Sydney about as far east as he could go
without swimming. After about 21 years as
an exhibitor he sold out to Odeon a few
years ago and went into the wood products
business. He couldn't stay aloof from the
theatre, however, and he now has returned
to his old house, the Rivoli, as manager for
Odeon ... If the Maine Hotel Ass'n succeeds
in a campaign to have U.S. citizens spend
their vacation money within the U.S. this
year, there will be an unfavorable reaction
on maritime theatres. The drive is in reprisal
for the Canadian government's limit of
$150 annually on what Canadians can spend
in the U.S. The rule will cost Maine about
$10,000,000 this year.
Completion of the Bond Theatre, at Carbonear,
Nfld., is expected in the very near
future. Seating capacity will be about 450.
The seating capacity at the Strand in Carbonear
has been reported inadequate lately
to cope with the demand and there is a plan
for its enlargement. The first in a series of
improvements at the Capitol in Yarmouth,
N.S., has been the opening of two new
convenience rooms. Both are on the ground
floor. They are finished with knotty pine
board walls and plaster ceilings. The floors
are of ceramic tile. Connected with the
larger room in each case is a toilet room with
tiled walls, ceiling and floor.
Winnipeg Theatre Robbed
WINNIPEG—Robbers smashed open the
Oak Theatre's safe and made off with $300,
receipts of a Monday night show. When
staff members arrived at work they found the
rear door of the theatre standing open and
the emptied cash box lying on the floor.
\
«.
108
BOXOFFICE
:
: May
15, 1948

. . Miss
Quebec Co. Will Film
Famed Radio Story
MONTREAL—One of Canada's most popular
broadcast series, Un Homme et Son
Peche (A Man and His Sin), a homespun
drama about Quebec rural life that has been
keeping French-speaking listeners glued to
their radios five nights a week for over nine
years, is soon to be filmed in the Laurentians
with an all French-Canadian cast.
Film rights to the story have been bought
by Quebec Productions, and Rene Germain,
president, says shooting will start in June at
the St. Hyacinthe studios near Montreal.
Outdoor scenes will be made in the Laurentians
where conditions are much the same
as they were at the time of the story, which
takes place in the village in the 1890s. The
picture will have English subtitles.
Tlie author of Un Homme et Son Peche
is Claude Henri Grignon, mayor of the Laurentian
village of Ste. Adele, who is also editing
the film scenario. Ten years ago he
wrote a book of the same name, which won
the Quebec government's annual literary prize
and skyrocketed to such popularity that the
CBC engaged him to turn it into a radio
serial. Since then listeners have come to
know the residents of the little rural center
of St. Jerome, where the story is set, as well
as they know their next door neighbors. In
fact, some followers of Un Homme et Son
Peche are hard pressed to believe that the
people it depicts do not really exist, and
are eagerly looking forward to seeing them
on the screen.
It is expected that Hector Charland, who
plays the principal role of Seraphin Poudrier
on the air, will play Poudrier in the film
version, too, which will also include many
others from the original cast. In order to
spin out his yarn over its years on the air
Grignon has had to postpone some of its
crucial happenings again and again.
His fans are curious to see whether the
film will follow the pattern of the book, or
the slightly altered and developed plan of
the broadcast serial.
FORT WILLIAM
. . Gladys
H recent visitor was H. Bernstein, representative
from BOXOFFICE .
Hodge, cashier at the Capitol here the last
two years, resigned to marry Steve Poster.
Business at the Lakehead has been away
off owing to the playoff of hockey games.
Now that the games are over and the Port
Arthur Bruins have won the memorial cup
emblematic of the junior hockey championship,
it is hoped that theatre business will
pick up . G. Belanger has been added
to the ushering staff at the Capitol replacing
Doris Nichols, who has taken over cashier
duties.
Famous Players theatres here were all plugging
theatre gift tickets for Mother's day May
9th.
Editor's Daughter Makes Debut
Grace McCord, young daughter of film
editor Harold McCord, will make her debut
as a featured singer in Warners' "My Dream
Is "yours."
Ontario's First Quonset-Type Theatre
Exhibitors from all parts of Ontario made
a weekend visit to Brampton to look over the
new Roxy Theatre, first quonsst-type theatre
in the province, which opened April 13.
The National Theatre Sales Co., which built
the house, has another one ready to open in
Acton, Ont., early in May. The Roxy seats
618 and the Acton house will seat 420. Built
in 18 weeks, despite much adverse weather,
the Roxy has a spacious foyer and lounge,
VANCOUVER
lyjicky Goldin, former theatre manager, has
been named manager of the 'Winnipeg
. .
office of Astral Films, which services Manitoba
and Saskatchewan . The Strand Theatre
was away to a smash start on its new
first run policy, playing "Sitting Pretty" on
a single bill. Famous Players formerly used
Earl Lawson,
the Strand for double features . . .
president of Odeon Theatres of Canada,
is on the coast for a ten-day visit of inspection
and to look over the circuit's new
houses in 'Victoria and 'West 'Vancouver.
Cupid has been busy in
the show business
here. Emily Hartwig of the Hastings staff
will marry Byron Printup in July; Rhoda
Bradley, Orpheum cashier, will take the trip
to the alter in September: Lome Newton,
former Orpheum assistant manager, wall
marry Barbara Shearer, who resigned from
the Capitol recently, and Marjorie Hayter,
eldest daughter of Earl Hayter, Odeon's British
Columbia supervisor, will marry Dennis
Lane June 9.
. . .
The Celanese Corp. of New York has completed
arrangements for a $15,000,000 pulp
plant at Port Edward, near Pi-ince Rupert,
B. C. For Pi'ince Rupert, the deal means
escape from the doldrums that followed departure
of thousands of war workers and U.S.
army personnel. The plant will take two
years to complete. Famous Players operates
Port Edwards' only theatre, the Capitol, a
750-seater. Local interests are starting construction
of a 900-seat theatre there
Nitery business in 'Vancouver has risen about
25 per cent in the past two months. Ace film
and radio attractions brought in recently apparently
are paying off.
Perry Wright, who succeeded Leslie
Plottel
comfortable rest rooms, excellent soimd
equipment and a custom-built candy bar
which can be supervised by the cashier. The
building is insulated against subzero weather
and extreme heat. It has oil heating, a circulating
hot water system and an air cooling
system. Architects Molesworth, Secord and
Savage of Toronto designed a 12-foot front
on the steel building that is built of Georgetown
sandstone and fits in harmoniously
with the rest of the surroundings.
. . . Bill Turner,
as manager here for Empire-Universal, has
arrived from Toronto and is busy getting
acquainted with the trade
formerly with YMCA War Services and Canadian
Pacific Airlines, is the new assistant
manager at the Paradise where Bob Fraser
is his boss . . . "The Home Town Paper,"
filmed at Vernon, B. C, last summer by National
Film board for the Canada Carries On
series, was given its Canadian premiere at
the Capitol in 'Vernon this week . . . WUlard
Adamson, manager here for International
Film Distributors, lost his foot and
a part of his leg in an operation in a local
hospital. He is coming along nicely at last
reports and is expected to be home in about
two weeks.
Walter Dowhanuk has started building a
350-seat theatre in Two Hills, Alta. It will
cost an estimated $39,000 . . Construction
.
delays have hit the new- Studio Theatre
here. It is being built for 'Vested Estates,
Ltd., and will seat 449.
Johnny Stobbart, manager of the Plaza
Theatre in Victoria, is attracting capacity
houses with his Odeon Movie club each Saturday
morning. He has made numerous tieups
with merchants for giveaways . . . Mayor
Charles Jones of 'Vancouver was motion picture
censor of Vancouver in the silent picture
days. Reminiscing recently he told of
issuing the first license for theatres to Frank
Gow, now British Columbia district manager
for Famous Players, and Willis Dewees, now
a Famous Players partner in many British
Columbia theatres.
Famous Players is about ready to start construction
of new theatres in Chilliwack and
Kelowna, B. C. Both are closed towns.
COXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948 109

. . Sympathy
. . Eileen
and
. . . Keith
MONTREAL
nilan Spencer, director of advertising for
Confederation Amusements, has returned
from a six-week visit in his native Trinidad.
B.W.I. He flew both ways. The reception he
experienced from his mother, whom he found
in good health, and friends exceeded his
fondest expectations, he said. He left Mrs.
Spencer and their child to enjoy an extended
holiday in Trinidad. They will return about
the middle of June. The season in Trinidad
has been very dry and hot.
George Roy is improving his Beauceville
Theatre, Beauceville East, assisted by Mrs.
Roy, who does the booking. Improvements
are also being made to the Canadian at
Causapascal by A. Paquet, owner and citizens
say it "looks 100 per cent better" . . . New
chairs are being installed in the Arcade,
Baie Comeau, by owner G. C. Lacroix.
. . P. E. Casoni has
Carl Brock of Cowanville is building a theatre
in partnership with Leo Choquette, and
reports construction well advanced . . . R. P.
Robert has completed his new Palace at
Granby . . . Dr. J. A. Guibord and his friends
are proud of the new theatre he has constructed
at Grand'Mere .
done some "spring cleaning" on his Stella at
Parent.
. . . Loui Rosenbloom, of the
. . .
M. E. Lodge, owner of two theatres, the
Town Hall in Danville and the Myra in Richmond,
is going to take things easier and will
turn over the Danville house to his future
son-in-law
Royal Alexandra, Lachine, has been carrying
on a notable advertising campaign for
his theatre . . . "Song of My Heart" (Allied
Artists) is on first run at His Majesty's here
Paul Douglas of the publicity department
of Eagle Lion was here.
. . .
Premiere Mackenzie King told parliament
he has always been in favor of the building
of a national theatre, and "would like to see
it done" . to Maurice Duhamel,
general manager of the Auclair circuit, whose
mother died Exhibitors in town: P.
Senecal, the George, Ste. Therese; Charles
Pacaud, St. Gregoire and Loretteville: R.
Lafrance, Rialto, Quebec City, and Georges
Turcotte, of the Cineam de Paris. Levis.
Marcel Pellerive of the Alamo, Chateauguay,
has booked several special attractions, including
"The Jolson Story," in anticipation of
the summer season . Brennan,
booker at Warner Bros., is visting Mrs. M.
C. Brais at Rawdon, Que. Mrs. Brais formerly
was an accountant at Warners . .
.
Mrs. Jack Rohr, wife of the president of
Peerless Films, has returned to Toronto after
spending a holiday at Ste. Agathe . . . Bessie
Herman of Quebec General Theatres is
spending a week's vacation in New York.
. . .
Cecile Dowling, shipper at Soverign Films,
was on a two-week vacation "Henry V"
was shown at the Capitol, Quebec City . . .
Safe driving films were exhibited to Quebec
motorists . . . Fridolin's new revue will be
titled "Ti-Coq" (Little Rooster i will open
here May 22.
Austin Willis and Joy Lafleur, Montreal
film stars, have received offers from Hollywood
Producer Jules Levy, formerly of
Toronto, who is planning to produce a picture
in Quebec province.
Public in Saskatoon
To Get Tax Break
SASKATOON, SASK.—Theatre patrons
here will get the full benefit of the 20 per
cent reduction in price when the federal government
drops its war excise tax.
The Saskatchewan provincial government
announced it did not intend to impose a
provincial tax, as will be done in Ontario,
Manitoba and British Columbia, and by doing
so indicated the field was open to municipalities.
The city council here voted not
to pass a local tax provided the saving is
passed on to the public.
Exhibitors here have pledged to pass along
the full tax reduction and expressed hope
that the local situation would be duplicated
throughout the province.
CALGARY
r\ne of the few visitors reaching Filmiow
last week was H. J. Stevenson, operating
theatres at Lacombe and Edson. He reported
"The
fairly good business last winter, which fell
sadly when snowbound roads kept rural patrons
at home the last few weeks .
Emperor Waltz" is definitely set for
. .
Edmonton
June 17. The capital city gets early release
as Bing Crosby and the oast were frequent
visitors from nearby Jasper mountain
resort where much of the exteriors were
shot. This will be the Canadian premiere.
Almost unique are flood conditions on the
prairies of Alberta whose high altitudes
cause flood waters and rivers to drain fast.
(Calgary is 3,500 feet above sea level). All
rivers in the Alberta water-sheds flow swiftly
into the eastern provinces and northern
waterways. Yet last week floods have isolated
farms, sections of railroads and highways
were imder water so that film cans were undelivered
and playdates were missed. However,
the worst seems to be over for three
days of dry wind and sun will clear up
flooded fields and roads. Planes were almost
equally helpless except in rare cases. Never
have the film salesmen spent so much time
around the film exchanges here. With
weather forecasts for the weekend dry and
warm, there was going to be a grand rush of
salesmen on the road again.
H. G. Matthews, veteran exhibitor of London.
England who came to Canada this year,
has taken over as Cardinal Films manager
here. He and his wife followed his son to
Alberta. The lad was a member of the
British air force in training at Penhold and
returned to Alberta after being discharged,
to marry a girl in Red Deer. Hence the local
film exchange acquires a new member.
Tele Station Applications
Will Be Heard in Montreal
MONTREAL—The board of governors of
Canadian Broadcasting Corp. will hold public
sessions here May 18, 19 to hear applications
for permission to establish television stations
in Canada, and will also discuss a proposal
to abandon the ban on mentioning prices of
articles .sponsored on the air.
Vallee in 'M-y Dear Secretary'
A top role in United Ai-tists' "My Dear Secretary"
has been assigned to Rudy Vallee.
TORONTO
Tack Labow, who covered the Calgary-
Winnipeg territory for RKO, has been promoted
to the Toronto RKO sales staff ... An
office romance between Al Cousins and
Dorothy Eversfield of the MGM head office
will culminate with their marriage June 5
Wilson, manager of the Odeon,
Brampton, is also .managing the new Roxy
in Brampton. Dennis Davies, assistant at the
Royal in Aurora, moved over to the Roxy to
aid Wilson in getting the new house under
way.
Lee Brooks, American industrialist who has
Canadian mining and steel interests and was
active in the local stock market, is arranging
for the production of a motion picture in
Hollywood, based on a famous bizarre Chicago
crime. He is collaborating with Howard Emmett
Rogers, a famous writer, in the production
of the documentary feature, which will
be entitled "Chicago Episode" . . May 27
.
has been set for the dual Canadian premiere
of United Aitists' "Arch of Triumph" at
Loew's Theatre here and Loew's m London,
Ont.
Over 1,200 children attended the opening
of the Odeon Movie club at the Pairlawn.
Sparked by Manager Howard Elliott, the
club, which has close to 2,000 members, is
the second Odeon club in Toronto. The initial
meeting featured the showing of "Bush
Christmas." Added attractions were a color
cartoon, a film presentation of the Odeon
Movie clubs' special newspaper, and a community
sing. Sid Burnett, electrical appliance
dealer in north Toronto, is sponsoring the
show and providing gifts, birthday cakes
£nd other prizes. The Odeon clubs are under
a special department headed by Tom Bowyer,
who is assisted by Bob Gardner. The new
Odeon Danforth was to launch its Movie
club Saturday, May 15.
The Famous Players Managers Ass'n joined
with the managers of the B&F and 20th Century
Theatres circuits in a Imicheon in the
King Edward hotel last Wednesday. Len
Bishop, manager of the Tivoli and president
of the Famous Players group, presided. Mort
Margolis. manager of the College, gave a report
on the Famous Players managers project,
which was the adoption of an orphaned
French child. He provided informative news
on conditions in Prance and held out the
suggestion that the associations present might
contribute to the child's care. A humorous
quiz program was presented by Bishop.
Employes of the various Famous Players
theatre affiliates have been holding monthly
social gatherings under the guidance of
Steve Caren, a member of the Tivoli staff.
Events take the form of hay rides, sleigh
rides, bowling and most recently a roller
skating party. The next event will be a trip
to Buffalo May 23. Arrangements have been
made for a tour of the city and a dinner
and stage show at one of Buffalo's leading
night clubs.
Movie Club at Fairlawn
TORONTO—Howard Elliott of the Fairlawn,
Toronto, is the latest to join the ranks
of managers in the promotion of Saturday
morning movie clubs for juveniles. After an
intensive organization campaign in the north
end of the city Manager Elliott launched his
Odeon club on May 1.
110 BOXOFFICE :
: May
15, 1948

—
BOXOFFICE BAROMETER • EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
FEATURE CHART • REVIEW DIGEST • SHORTS CHART
SHORTS REVIEWS • FEATURE REVIEWS • EXPLOITIPS BookinGuide
BOXOFFICE
FIRST RUN REPORTS
This chart shows the records made by
key cities
pictures in five or more of the 21
checked. As new runs are reported, ratings
are added and averages revised.
BAROMETER
TOP HIT OF THE WEEK
State of the Union
Philadephia 210
Buffalo 190
Minneapolis 175
Computed in terms of percentage in
relation to normal grosses. With 100
per cent as "normal," the figures
show the percentage above or below
that mark.

EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
ABOUT
PICTURES
Just as the Barometer page shows first run reports on current pictures, this
department is devoted for the most part to reports on subsequent runs, made by
exhibitors themselves. A one-star contributor is new, two stars mean the exhibitor
has been writing in for six months or longer, and a three-star contributor
is a regular of one year or more, who receives a token of our appreciation. All
exhibitors weicome.
COLUMBIA
Blondie Knows Best (Col)—Penny Singleton,
Arthur Lake, Larry Simms. This series sure
takes well here, especially with the children
Keep on coming with more like it and there
won't be any trouble booking 'em. Played
Wednesday. 'Weather: Good, cool.—W. H.
Swan, Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural
patronage.
• » *
Corpse Came C.O.D., The (Col)—George
Brent, Joan Blondell, Adele Jexgens. A good
little comedy that didn't make it at the boxoffice.
Thfe title was poor. The show proved
interesting to those that came. Played Mon.
Tues. Weather: Okay.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz
Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
Last of the Hedmen, The (Col)—Jon Hall,
Michael O'Shea, Evelyn Ankers. This is all
right. Don't pass it up. You'll enjoy your
patronage. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather:
Cool and fair.—Harland Fiankin, Rankin Enterprises,
Chatham, Ont. General patronage.
« • •
Last of the Redmen. The (Col)—Jon Hall,
Michael O'Shea, Evelyn Ankers. This was a
welcome break from the usual run of Saturday
westerns. The color was not bad and it
drew a good crowd and generally pleased
folks. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Cold rain.
— R. G. Risch, Reno Theatre, Appleton, Minn.
Village and rural patronage. *
Pacific Adventure (Col)—Ron Randell, Muriel
Steinbeck, John Tate. This is a good little
picture. The star value in it is nil but the
story value is good and the production value
fair. It needs quite a bit of support and is
best suited for double featuring. Played Wed.,
Thurs. Weather: Fair.—Walt Rasmussen, Star
Theatre, Anthon, Iowa. Rural and small town
patronage.
•
EAGLE LION
Lavy of the Lash (EL)-Al "Lash" LaRue,
Al "Fuzzy" St. John, Mary Scott. It pleased
but we had a small attendance. Played Fri.,
Sat. Weather: Good.—Ralph Raspa, State
Theatre, Rivesville, W. Va. Small town patronage.
» • »
Linda Be Good (EL)—Marie Wilson, Elyse
Knox, John Hubbard. A good picture with
lots of comedy and music. It had better than
average draw. Played Mon., Tues. Weather:
Warm.— L. Brazil jr.. New Theatre, Bearden,
Ark. Small town patronage. • • *
Linda Be Good (EL)—Marie Wilson, Elyse
Knox, John Hubbard. This is a very light
comedy that should be on a double bill.
Played Sunday—James C. Balkcom jr., Gray
Thegtre, Gray, Ga. Small town patronage.
* » .
Out of the Blue (EL)—Virginia Mayo, George
Brent, Turhan Bey. This is a pleasant surprise
that did pretty good business. With it we
aoubled the gross on some so-called big pictures
that we recently ran and our patrons
were pleased and entertained. Bought it
right and so shov/ed a profit—and that is
something rare now. Played Sun., Mon.
Weather: Fine.—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach
Theatre, Lincoln, Kas. Small town patronage.
» * *
Railroaded (EL)—John Ireland, Sheila Ryan,
Hugh Beaumont. This show is very good but
very poorly received. Eagle Lion has a very
good lineup of product. Now if business
would only get back to normall This feature
IS very good for a double bill. Played Fri
:
Sat. Weather: Rain.—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre,
Rivesville, W. 'Va. I^ural patronage.
* * *
Repeat Performance (EL)—Louis Hayward,
Joan Leslie, Richard Basehart. I had my fingers
crossed and was really scared of it, but
although it starts out a bit slow, it builds up
and holds the interest. It's a very good dramatic
picture and will even do in a small
town. Weather: Mild.—Jim Mote, Gem Theatre,
Sterling, Okla. Small (own and rural patronage.
* *
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
Gone With the Wind (MGM) — Reissue.
Clark Gable, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland.
This is as good as before at the boxoffice
but got a bad break on the weather due
to fog. Prints on this were good and very
few splices. Played Mon., Tues. Weather:
Foggy.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz- Theatre, Jerome,
Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
Gone With the Wind (MGM) — Reissue.
Clark Gable, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland.
We did pretty well with this on a return
showing but not enough to satisfy the
rental Metro charged us for the privilege of
:he return. It is still a good picture and worth
running though, the print was swell, and
everyone was praising the picture. Get it on
a sliding scale—then you can't get hurt.
Played Tues. through Thurs. Weather: Fine.
—Mayme P. Musselman, Roach Theatre, Lincoln,
Kas. Small town patronage.
* • *
Good Newrs (MGM)—June Allyson, Peter
Lawford, Patricia Marshall. This is a very
good musical that appealed to the younger
set. Played Mon., Tues.—James C. Balkcom
jr.. Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town patronage.
* * *
High Barbaree (MGM)—Van Johnson, June
Says Public Skeptical;
Been Oversold Before
T LOYD LAFOND, manager of the Rimrock
Theatre at Winnett, Mont., and
a regular contributor to these columns,
gets several things off his chest in this
communication
"I certainly agree with Marcella Smith
of IVIcArthur, Ohio, in the April 3 issue
of BOXOFFICE that boxoffice receipts
do not show the merits of a picture.
When pictures like BEST YEARS OF
OUR LIVES, BOOMERANG, CHEY-
EN>rE, LOVE AND LEARN, IT'S A WON-
DERFUL LIFE and THE HOME-
STRETCH don't bring people in, business
is bad.
"I hope the TOA opens the throttle on
their public relations program soon. However,
I have observed that my patrons'
reaction to a barrage of publicity is a
very deep-rooted skepticism—they have
been oversold before!
"The long range program will be the
real McCoy. It won't produce a shot-inthe-arm
effect, but should certainly create
a more lasting and favorable attitude
toward the industry. We need it,
from our little towns all the way to the
top."
He Wants More Comedy:
Plenty of Sad Stuff
LITTLE MR. JIM (MGM) —Butch. Jenkins,
James Craig, Frances Gifford. Most
of my audience went to sleep and most of
them that I overheard said, "My, I had a
good nap on this one." If business doesn't
pick up soon, I'm going to convert my
theatre into a dozen apartments. 'Why
doesn't Hollywood give ns more comedy
features? This sad stuff, most of our
audience have plenty of, without coming
here to pay for more.—Ben Brinck, West
Point Theatre, West Point, Iowa. Small
town patronage.
* * •
Allyson, Thomas Mitchell. To date this is one
of Van's best in my location. It isn't new
any more but if your folks haven't seen it,
what difference does that make? They'll like
it. It's great—and you'll like the boxoffice
results. Played Tues., Wed. Weather: Good.
—Jim Mote, Gem Theatre, Sterling, Okla.
Small tov/n and rural patronage. * *
Harvey Girls, The (MGM)—Judy Garland,
John Hodiak, Ray Bolger. Say what you may.
many pictures are not made any better. One
customer said, "I never laughed so much in all
my life." Many remained to see it twice, so
that's what you call "satisfied customers.'
The lion roared once again for MGMl Played
Sat., Sun. Weather: Cool.—W. H. Swan, Auditorium
Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural patron-
~„ * * *
age.
King Size Canary (MGM)—Short. This is
another funny cartoon from MGM, the company
that we think makes the best cartoons in
the industry, and we play 'em for every company.
Played Tues., Wed.—Abe H. Kaufman,
Fountain Theatre, Terre Haute, Ind. Action,
family patronage.
• • •
Living in a Big Way (MGM)—Gene Kelly,
Marie McDonald, Charles Winninger. There
were sufficient mood changes to satisfy everyone.
The dancing, comedy and drama were
nicely balanced and it pleased average attendance.
Played Wednesday. Weather:
Cold.—J. E. Rougeau, Club Theatre, Seven
Sisters Falls, Man. Small town and rural patronage.
* •
SiYearling, The (MGM) — Gregory Peck,
Jane Wyman, Claude Jarman jr. All I can say
IS, truly a great feature. Words cannot acclaim
the greatness in acting and Technicolor
effects. Played Sat., Mon. Weather:
Fair.— S. N. Holmberg, Regal Theatre, Sturges,
*
Sask. Rural patronage.
MONOGRAM
King of the Bandits (Mono)—Gilbert Roland,
Chris-Pin Martin, Angela Greene. The
Cisco Kid will still bring them in here and
this one is very good. After Monogram lets
this series go, we might as well quit their
product. Played Sunday. Weather: Okay.
D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining
patronage. * *
PARAMOUNT
Adventure Island (Para) — Rory Calhoun,
Rhonda Fleming, Paul Kelly. This show was
disappointing in the lack of action. The color
isn't too good— in fact we have had lots better
Cinecolor than this. The story was lacking
some place.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre,
Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
Dear Ruth (Para)-Joan Caulfield, William
Holden, Mona Freeriian. One of the finest
pieces of entertainment I have ever seen. II
you can't enjoy this show, you had better see
a doctor. Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather:
Fair.—Bill Leonard, Leonard Theatre, Cedarvale,
Kas. Small town patronage. * • •
Golden Earrings (Para)—Ray Milland, Marlene
Dietrich, Marvyn Vye. This pleased average
attendance. Marlene Dietrich got the .'
most of the part she had and gave the audience
quite a kick. The fight between Zoltan
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide May 15, 1948
—

—
—
and Deniston was a bearcat. Played Wednesday
Weather: Good.— I. E. Rougeau, Ciub
Theatre, Seven Sisters Falls, Man. Small
town and rural patronage.
Variety Girl (Para)—Mary Hatcher, Olga
San Juan, DeForrest Kelley. This is an entertaining
musical show which did only overage
business as I was late playing it. Played
Wed., Thurs. Weather; Good.—E. M. Freiburger.
Paramount Theatre, Dewey, Oklo.
SmerH town patronage.
Virginian, The (Para)—Joel McCrea, Brian
Donlevy, Sonny Tufts. This is a nice picture,
with lovely color, and it did very well, although
it was somewhat old. Played Fri.,
Weather: Warm.—Harland Rankin, Beau
Sat.
Theatre, Belle River, Ont. General patronage.
yWelcome Stranger (Para)—Bing Crosby,
Barry Fitzgerald, Joan Caulfield. Bing and
Barry make a good combination. This is a
typical small town picture that rates tops.
Played Mon., Tues.—James C. Balkcom jr.,
Gray Theatre, Gray, Ga. Small town patronage.
RKO RADIO
^Farmer's Daughter. The (RKO)—Loretta
Young, Joseph Gotten, Ethel Barrymore. What
a grand picture! If I could only have shown
it sooner, it would have drawn better. Loretta
Young at her best and she did have the Scandinavian
down good. . So did the others. Some
of my patrons remained for the second show.
Played Sat., Sun. Weather: Good.—W. H.
Swan, Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural
patronage.
Best Years of Our Lives (RKO)—Myrna Loy,
Frederic March, Dana Andrews. Every person
that came said it was worth $1.20 but the
price kept some away—even turned some
away at the boxoffice. I didn't cover expenses
but I'm glad I showed it. Played Wed.,
Thurs. Weather; Good.—Lloyd Lafond, Rimrock
Theatre, Winnett, Mont. Small town and
rural patronage.
Rifi-Roli (RKO)—Pat O'Brien, Walter Slezak,
Anne Jeffreys. Business was just fair
and the film rental sky high. The picture
pleased those who came. Something's got to
be done about film rentals. You should see
some of the rentals I have to pay. Played
Tues., Wed. Weather: Good.—Ralph Raspa,
State Theatre, Rivesville, W. Va. Rural patronage.
» • *
WSecret Uie of Walter Mitly, The (RKO)—
Danny Kaye, Virginia Mayo, Boris Karloff.
If Danny Kaye goes in your town, play this,
as it is one of his best. The color is perfect
and the comedy skits are tops. Played Fri.,
Sat. Weather: Okay.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre,
Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
Tarzan and the Huntress (RKO)—Johnny
WeissmuUer, Brenda Joyce, Johnny Sheffield.
Tarzan always has terrific drawing power in
my situation. This one is no exception and,
in spite of you-know-what and high water
from the recent floods, they came out m goodly
numbers. Ployed Sun., Mon. Weather; Rainy.
—I. Roche, 'Vernon Theotre, 'Vernon, Fla. Rural
ond smoll town patronage. * *
They Won't Believe Me (RKO) — Robert
Some
Young, Susan Hayword, Rita Johnson.
exhibitors won't believe me. I played this on
the opening night of a contest to continue for
Heaven Films Don't Take:
Exhibitors Go Below!
DOWN TO EARTH (Col)—Rita
Hayworth,
Larry Parks, Marc Piatt. Heaven
pictures don't take here, and the thoughts
of going below with other exhibitors
makes sonxe of us shudder. Two of our
theatres died on this, but in one theatre
it was okay. Played Wed., Thurs. Weather:
Fair.—Harland Rankin, Rankin Enterprises,
Chatham, Ont. General patronage.
* • •
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: May 15, 1948
two weeks and to promott; 'Wild Horves!
(Para). We had a full house which overflowed
into the second show. The picture
pleased everyone except at the end where
Robert Young died. The ladies had hoped
so much that he would be free ond marry the
girl. It's a very good show and no mistake,
but it might take selling. Played Wednesday.
Weather; Good.— J. E. Rougeau, Club Theatre,
Seven Sisters Foils, Man. Small town and
rural
•
patronage. • •
Under the Tonto Rim (RKO)—Tim Holt, Nan
Leslie, Richord Martin. This series of westerns
can't be beat. Well produced and should
please anywhere. Played Thurs., Fri., Sot.
Weather; Cold and rainy.—Terry Axley, New
Theotre, Englond, Ark. Rural and small town
patronage.
» » •
Woman on the Beach (RKO)—Joan Bennett,
Robert Ryan, Charles Bickford. This is a good
picture that took fairly well. Joan Bennett is
really good in this. Played Sunday. Weather.
Fair.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theotre, Jerome, Ariz.
Mining patronage.
* *
REPUBUC
Home on the Range (Rep)—Monte Hale,
Adrian Booth, Bobby Blake. Another Monte
Hole picture and as usual it is in Mognocolor
but it only broke twice, a pretty good record
for me. There ore o lot of animals so it's
o good one for the weekend and for kid matinees.
Why don't they make these pictures in
black and white? The people would like it
better and the projector would have on eosier
time. Played Fri., Sot. Weother; Fine.
George MacKenzie, York Theotre, Hontsport,
N. S. Small town patronage. ' '
In Old Caliiornia (Rep)—John Woyne, Binnie
Barnes, Albert Dekker. Here is o rare
combination — good picture, good ottendonce,
and a low rental. Unless prices are lowered
Bouquet oi the Week
To This Magazine
CAM HOLIVIBERG, who has the Regal
Theatre at Sturges, Sask., passes out
this bouquet which we pass on, with a
blush or two for modesty's sake:
"I consider BOXOFFICE the best magazine
on the market—no salesman ballyhooing
about his pictures. In the last few
months since I've been getting BOX-
OFFICE, I've learned more about booking
features and getting the right shows
than I learned in my previous two years
of show business. So take a bow, BOX-
OFFICE, from a small fish in the big
pond of showmanship. Keep up the good
work. You let us know the good pictiu'es
and we'll play them."
for first run films, I'm going to a strictly second
run house. Played Tues., Wed. Weather:
Fair.—Rolph Rospo, Stole Theatre, Rivesville,
W. 'Va. Rurol patronage. » * *
That's My Gal (Rep)—Lynne Roberts, Donald
Barry, Pinky Lee. This is only fair. I wish
Don "Red" Barry was bock in westerns as
he was one of my top attroctions. Played
Sunday. Weather: Rain.—James C. Balkcom
jr.. Gray Theatre, Gray, Go. Small town patronage.
• • *
Wyoming (Rep)—William Elliott, 'Vera Ralston,
John Carroll. This is o very good western
but our Fri., Sat. business "just ain't" so we
didn't do much on the picture, which really
deserves a better turnout. Buy it and if you
hove any business left, this picture will sotisfy—if
they like outdoor action. Played Fri.,
Sat. Weather: Fine.—Moyme P. Musselman,
Roach Theatre, Lincoln, Kos. Smoll town potronage.
* * *
SCREEN GUILD PRODUCTIONS
Northwest Trail (SG) — Bob Steele, Joan
Woodbury, John Litel. This is a nice northwest
out-of-doors show. It is another case of
The Kids Liked It Fine:
Adults Were Disgusted
GAS HOUSE KIDS GO WEST (EL) —
Emory Parnell, Chili Williams, Vince
Barnett. The kids tore down the house
with laughter and the adults left in disgust.
It's good for the lower half of a
double bill to attract children. Business
if off, due to the coal strike. Played Fri.,
Sat. Weather: Good.—Ralph Raspa,
State Theatre, Rivesville, W. Va. Rural
patronage. * * *
the Mounties always getting their man. Played
Wednesday. Weather: Okay.—D. W.
Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. Mining
patronage.
Wildliro (SG)— Bob Steele, Sterling Holloway,
William Farnum. This is a story of a
horse ond it packed the kids in at the motinee
and Sterling HoUowoy brought them in
at the night show. If your patrons go for
horse pictures they will go for this one. The
only thing wrong v/as that it was in Cinecolor—yes,
I know that's alwoys my complaint!
Played Wed., Thurs. Weather; Rainy.
—George MacKenzie, York Theatre, Hontsport,
N. S. Smoll town patronage. * *
20th CENTURY-FOX
Boomerang (20th-Fox)—Dana Andrews, Jane
Wyatt, Lee J. Cobb. Here is a picture that
will keep the adults and students sitting
quietly ond attentively until the end. I had
many good comments but was unable to get
people to come. This picture should play
every theatre, especially this year, when we
again select our public officials. Played Sat.,
Sun. Weather; Good.—Lloyd Lafond, Rimrock
Theatre, Winnett, Mont. Small town and rural
patronage.
Captain From Castile (20th-Fox)—Tyrone
Power, Jean Peters, Cesar Romero. A very
gorgeous boxoffice flop—and at a Kigh percentage.
Wonderful costumes, scenery, music,
o spicy fandango, a story that died out
about midway, endless shots of people walking
that exhausted even the exhibitor. However,
since Fox is the distributor, we ore confident
that we ore not dealing purely on o
horse-trading basis ond will likely get a fair
adjustment.—Teresa Lengyel, Forty-Niner Theatre,
Georgetown, Calif. Small town patronage.
*
iUMiracIe on 34th Street (20th-Fox)—John
Payne, Maureen O'Hara, Edmund Gwenn.
Here is the best picture here for a long time
a little late, but the people don't mind that
OS long OS they keep making them like this
one. It is good for all ages ond we had the
best crowd here since the New Year started.
Congrotulations, Fox, on o crowd-pleoser
and how about more of them. Played Mon.,
Tues. Weather: Fair.—George MacKenzie,
York Theatre, Hontsport, N. S. Small town
patronage. * *
Tobacco Road (20th-Fox)—Dono Andrews,
Gene Tierney, Charles Grapewin. Business
was really good on this reissue. It is not
morbid and has plenty of good comedy—will
please any day of the week. Played Tuesday.
Weather: Good.—E. M. Freiburger, Poromount
Theatre, Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage.
UNITED ARTISTS
Chase, The tUA) — Robert Cummings,
Michele Morgan, Peter Lorre. This wasn't
good for us. If you con, poss it up and be
happier. Played Wed., Thurs.—Harlond Ronkin,
Beau Theatre, Belle River, Ont. General
patronage. * * *
Ramrod (UA)—Joel McCrea, Veronica Lake,
Donald Crisp. Here is the biggest flop I've
seen yet—and to think it came from United
Artists, the one compony I thought hod only
good shows! This one storted out in the mid-
(Continued on page 14)

'
FEATURE CHART
m
Feature productions, listed by company, in order oi release. Number in square is naliial
release date. Production number is at right. Number in parentheses is running time at
furnished by home oiiice of distributor; checkup with local exchanges is recommenjd.
R—is review date. PG—is Picture Guide page number. Symbol
[7] (69) Drama 813
THE SON OF RUSTY
Ted Doiiaklsoii
Stephen Dunne
Ann Dorati
R—Aug. 16—PG-848
[Tj] (55) Western 870
RIDERS OF THE
LONE STAR
Charles Starrett
.Smiley Biirnetle
Virginia Hunter
|2i] (67) Mus-West 851
SMOKY RIVER
SERENADE
Iloosier llotshots
Taui Campbell
Ruth Terry
li—Aug. 23—PG-860
!
(12) (64) Comedy 711
GAS HOUSE KIDS GO
WEST
Chill Williams
G;ts House Kids
William Wright
R^Iuly 6—PO-841
^
(58) Western 754
GHOST TOWN RENE-
GADES
R—Aug. »—rG-845
(85) Drama 106
IID
CARAVAN
Stewart Granger
R—Sept. 6—rO-863
^
[^ (104) Mus-Dr 727 Reprint
©FIESTA
(103) Musical 723
Esther Williams THE GREAT WALTZ
Iticardo Montalbao
Luise Ualner
Mary Astor
Fernand Gr&vet
Cyd Charisse
R-^une 14—PO-830
(115) Drama
THE HUCKSTERS
Clark Gable
Deborali Kerr
Keenan Wynn
Sydney Greenstreet
R—June 28—PO-843
728
(106) Drama 729
ROMANCE OF ROSY
RIDGE
Van Johnson
Janet Leigh
Ihoma.s Mitchell
It—July 5—PG-836
|i6| (81) Drama 107
RED STALLION
Itohert Paige
Noreen Nasll
It—July 2(i—PG-841
g
(63) Comedy 712 |o| (S8) MMtal
GAS HOUSE KIDS IN PHILO VANCE'S
HOLLYWOOD
SECRET MISS
Carl •Alfalfa" Snllzer Alan Curtis
Benny Bartlett
Sliella Ityan
lUidy Wlssler
I'Viink Jeiiks
rommy Bond
R—Sept. 6—PO-863
It—Mar. 27—PQ.
[19] (68) Comedy 621
KILROY WAS HERE
Jaciiie Cooper
Jacliie Coogan
Wanda McKay
R-^uly 6—Pa-838
^ (42)
Docum
©THUNDERBOLT
James Stewart
666
^
m
(95) Comedy
DEAR RUTH
4616 (63)
I COVER
Drama
BIG TOWN
4624
.loan Caulfield
William Holden
Philip Reed
Hillary Brooke
Edward Arnold
Robert Lowery
Billy De Wolfe R—Mar. 1—P(^795
B—May 31—Pa-824
(106) Drama 4613 ra (96) Drama 4617
(JWELCOME STRANGER qdesERT FURY
Ring Crosby
Llzaheth Scott
Barry Fll/.gerald
Jnlin llodlak
Joan Caulfield
Iturt Lancaster
R—April 26—PG-814 R—Aug. 2—PG-844
^
(67) M'drama 4625
^ (93) Muaieall
JUNGLE FLIGHT VARIETY GIRL
Robert Lowery
Paramount Stan
Ann Savage
Mary Hatcher
R—Mar. 1—PG-795 Olga San Juan
R—July 19—Pa-l))|
[12] (44) Mys-Com 4617
HAT BOX MYSTERY
Tom Neal
Allen Jenhlns
Pamela Blake
R-^an. 3—PO-888
Group 6
Group 6
Group 6
(60) Drama 729 (60) Western 730 (95) M.vs-Dr 726
DICK TRACY'S THUNDER MOUNTAIN THEY WON'T BELIEVE
DILEMMA
Tim Holt
ME
Ralph Byrd
Martha Hyer
Robert Young
Kay Christopher
Richard Martin
Susan Hayward
Ian Keith
R—May 24—PG-822 lane Greer
Rita Johnson
R—May 24—PQ-822
R—May 17—PG-820
^
(75) Western 646 (67) Drama 617
©SPRINGTIME IN THE BLACKMAIL
SIERRAS
William Marshall
Roy Rogers-Jane Frazee Adele Mara
R—Aug. 2—PG-843 R—Aug. 16—PG-847
|l|] (71) Western 685
ROBINHOOD OF TEXAS
K—Sept. 13-PQ-865
Reissue
[19| (65) Western HC12
BAR 20 JUSTICE
William Boyd
Russell Hayden
George Hayes
^
M (40) Mys-Com 4618
CASE OF THE BABY
SITTER
Tom Neal
Allen Jenkins
Pamela Blake
[T] (84) tutd'r-Dr 618
WYOMING
Vera Ralston
William Elliott
.lohn Carroll
R—Aug, 2—PG-843
[2] (71) Com-Dr 4702
KILLER DILL
Stuart Erwln
Anne Gwynne
Frank Albertson
B—May 17—PG-819
Group 1
(SO) Drama 803
RIFF-RAFF
Pat O'Brien
Anne Jeffreys
R—June 14—PG-829
Group 1
(61) Western 805
UNDER THE TONTO
RIM
Tim Holt
Nan Leslie
It—June 14—PG-829
[13] (58) Western 667
MARSHAL OF CRIPPLE
CREEK
Allan Lane-Brjbhv Blake
R—Aug. 23—PG-84fl
|i6) (69) Drama 620
THE PRETENDER
R—Aug. 30—PG-851
Group 1
(68) Drama
SEVEN KEYS TO
BALDPATE
Phillip Terry
Trevor
Claire
R—June 7—PG-826
804
Group 1
(86) Draou
CROSSFIRE
Itobert Young
Hubert Mllchtn
Itobert Ryan
Ghirla GrahBiw
S;im Levene
It—June 28—PO
|30] (64) Wester
©ALONG THE OGI
TRAIL
Monte Hale
Booth
Adrain
It—Sept. 13—PG55I
(99) Drama 721
MEET ME AT DAWN
William Eyibe
Hazel Court
Margaret Itutberford
(76) Drama 722
THE CRIMSON KEY
Kent Taylor
Doris Dowling
Dennis Hoey
Louise Currle
B—July 12—PG-838
(104) Musical 723
©I WONDER WHO'S
KISSING HER NOW
lune Haver
Mark Stevens
Martha Stewart
Reginald Gardiner
R—June 21-PG-832
[i9{ (96) Drama
THE OTHER LOVE
Barbara Stanwyck
David Nlven
B—Apr. 12—Pa-810
|l8] (60) Western
HOPPY'S HOLIDAY
William Boyd
Andy Clyde
R—May 24—PG-821
[9] (133) Musical
(iARNEGIE HALL
Wlliiiint I'rince
MarslKi Hunt
Concert sfara
R—Mar. 8—PO-rsr
g (118) CoBe(*
(gCOMEDY CARirl
W.ilter Abel
Margot Grahamt .
R—Aug 30—PO-I
(118) Drama 619
GREAT EXPECTATIONS
John Mills
Valerie Hobson
R—AprU S—Pa-807
(98) Drama 620 (80) Drama 623
BRUTE FORCE ©SLAVE GIRL
Burt Lancaster
Yvonne De Carlo
Hume Cronyn
George Brent
R—June 28—PG-833 R—July 26—PG-842
g
(108) Drama 624
POSSESSED
Joan Crawford
Van Heflln
Raymond Massey
Geraldlne Brooks
R—June 7—PO-825
Reissues
[9] (81) Drama 626
MARKED WOMAN
Bette Davls-H. Bogart
[9] (87) Drama 627
DUST BE MY DESTINY
John Garfield
Priscilla Lane
^
(84) Drama 625
CRY WOLF
Errol Flynn
Harb.'ir.l Stanwyck
Geraldine Brooks
It—July 12—PG-837
i
o H
S3
(98) Drama Reissue
CHEERS FOR MISS
BISHOP
Martki Scott
(64) Weetern New Bel
DEADLINE
Buiuet CarsQO
ru starling
(62) Western New Bel
FIGHTING MUSTANG
Sunset Carson
Pat Starling
(70) Com Belssue
IT PAYS TO BE FUNNY
Bob Hope
Mlltoo Berle
(70) Comedy Reissue
LI'L ABNER
Martha O'Drlscoll
Edgar Kennedy
(57) Musical Belssue
ROAD TO HOLLYWOOD
Bing Crosby
B—Mar. 1—Pa-706
(86) Mus-Dr Reissue
SECOND CHORUS
Paulette Goddard
Fred Astaire
(60) Western New Bel
WESTERN TERROR
Dave "Tei" O'Brien
Bu2zy Henry
(59) Western Reissue
GHOST TOWN
Harry Carey
(89) Mus-Com Reissue
JIMMY STEPS OUT
James Stewart
Paulette Goddard
(64) Western RffflSH
WILD MUSTANG
Harry Carey
(87) Drama Billl
LITTLE MEN »l
Kay Francis
Jack OaUe
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: May 15, 1948,

II
BrEMBER 6
Rl) Mystery 821
HOG DRUMMOND
rKES BACK
Udell
Henry
23—PQ-8BI
)
I
Comedy 801
(IF THE THIN
Powell
BLor
IWynn
»—PG-844
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
SEPTEMBER 13 SEPTEMBER 20 SEPTEMBER 27
(^ (87) Mystery 803
THE ARNELO AFFAIR
John lludlak
tJeorge Murphy
Frances Glfford
It—Feb. 15—Pa-790
|27) (68) Mus-Com 827
WHEN A GIRL'S
BEAUTIFUL
Adeie Jeri^em
Marc Pliitt
I'atrlcs White
Stephen Dunne
li—Sept. 27—PG-859
^
OCTOBER 4
(72) Drimi 710 [T| (03) Com-Myst 802
RAILROADED
GREEN FOR DANGER
.lohn Ireland
Sally Gray-Trevor Howard
I!—Oct. 18—PQ-see II—Auk. 16— PO-848
OCTOBER 11
[n] (87) Comedy 801
OUT OF THE BLUE
Brent -Mayo-Bey
R—Sept. 6—PG-853
(u] (53) Western 755
RETURN OF THE LASH
.Vl "Lash" La Kue
It—Nov. 15—PO-873
OCTOBER 18
[9] (67) Drama 905 [14] (55) Western 961
KEY WITNESS BUCKAROO FROM
.lutin Beal
POWDER RIVER
Trudy Marshall H—Nov 15— PG-873
llmmy Lloyd
[le] (67) Comedy 911
It—Sept. 6— PG-854 BLONDIE IN THE
DOUGH
R—SejJt. 27—PQ-859
[3] (118) Drama 802
|Io| (118) Drama 804
[17] (82) Comedy 805
©UNFINISHED DANCE SONG OF LOVE
MERTON OF THE
.Margaret O'Drlen
MOVIES
Katharine Hepburn
Cyd Charisse
Paul
Red Bkclton
Ilenrcld
Karin Booth
Virginia
Robert
O'Brien
Walker
R—Aug. 9—PQ-846
It—July
It—July 26—PG-841
19—PG-839
FEATURE CHART
OCTOBER 25 |
(101) Musical 930
©DOWN TO EARTH
II. Ilay»orlh-L. Parks
It—Aug. 8— PG-844
(68) Musical 918
SWEET GENEVIEVE
J. Porter-J. Lydon
R—Sept. 20—PO-858
[[8] (68) Drama 803
BURY ME DEAD
^ (58) Western 530
CHEYENNE
Mark
TAKES
Daniels
OVER
R—Oct. 11—PO-864
Al "Ush" l.a Rue
[is] (61) Western 756
pS] (581 Western
FIGHTING
851
VIGILANTES
Al "L.xsh" La Rue BLACK HILLS
R—Nov. 29—PG-877 Eddie Dean
g
) Drama
OBI HOOD OF
FEREY
i:»liind
i:rent
MartlD
623 [l^ (68) Drsms 622 Allied Artists
|16] (89) Ould'r-Dr AA2
NEWS HOUNDS
l>eo Gorcey
BLACK GOLD
Itowery Boys
li—June 28—rG-833
li^une 21—PG-831 [|o] (59) Western 673
lltirstinp Mclntyre Anthony Quinn
FLASHING GUNS
It—Jan. 31—Pa-89B
[4] (53) Western 685
RIDIN' DOWN THE
TRAIL
.llmmy Wakely
"CannonbaH" Taylor
Beverly Johns
\n\ (72) Drama 4701
HIGH TIDE
Don Castle
Anabel Shaw
Lee Tracy
R—Aug. 9—PG-84B
[ii] (72) Comedy 4702
JOE PALOOKA IN THE
KNOCKOUT
Joe Kirkwood jr.
Elyse Knoi
Leon
Errol
R—Aug. 30—PG-851
(25] (55) Drama 678
PRAIRIE EXPRESS
Johnny .Mack Brown
Virginia Belmont
Raymond Hattou
He] (92) Drama 4701
WILD HARVEST
AliUi Ladd
iiorothy Lamour
Robert Preston
Lloyd Nolan
R—Aug. 9—PG-845
[To] (67) M'drama 4702
©ADVENTURE ISLAND
Rory (^Iboun
Rhonda Fleming
Paul Kelly
R—Aug. 23—PG-8B*
frill!
(!i Comedy 801
ELOR AND THE
BBY-SOXER
nt
,y
I fmple
7—PG-826
lit; Musical 724
IO'eR WORE
HTS
ible
•y
.^. eeman
-A 30—PG-852
(2) Drama
SAL COLUMN
lirly LURED)
tanders
DBaU
( Cobum
19—P0-SS9
Special
(97) Drama 861
THE LONG NIGHT
Henry Fonda
Barbara Bel Geddes
Ann Dvorak
Vincent Price
It—June 7—PO-826
(59)
[U
Drami 629 (90) Drama 621
EXPOSED
DRIFTWOOD
Adele Mara
Ruth Warrick
Robert Scott
Walter Brennan
it—Sept. 20—PO-857 Dean Jagger
R—Nov. IB—PG-784
Reissues
Herald
|2o) (69)
(Neoro)
Miis-Com |l3] (55) Drama S-1
X-2
RACKETEERS
BOY, WHAT A GIRL!
Preston Foster
Tim Moore
Melvyn Douglas
Elwood Smith
[l3] (74) Drama S-2 Sheila Guyse
CALL IT MURDER Duke William
Humphrey Bogart R—Feb. 15—PG-790
Richard Whorf
(99) Drama
KISS OF DEATH
Victor Mature
Brian Donlevy
Coleen Gray
R—Aug. 16—PG-847
725
[T|] (93) Comedy
HEAVEN ONLY KNOWS
Robert (^iimralngs
Brian Donlevy
Marjorle Reynolds
R—Aug. 2—PQ-843
^
Reissue
(118) Drama 727
HOW GREEN WAS MY
VALLEY
Walter Fldgeon
(62) Drama 726
SECOND CHANCE
R—July 26—PG-842
Special
(105) Comedy 851
^©SECRET LIFE OF
WALTER
MITTY
Danny Kaye
Virginia Mayo
li—.luly 19—PG-840
Reissue
(90) Drama
SWAMP WATER
Walter Brennan
Walter Huston
Anne Ba.xter
Dana Andrews
(T] (59) Western 751
THE WILD FRONTIER
Allan "Rocky" Lane
Eddie Waller
Jack Holt
R—Oct. 11—PG-863
[T] (119) Drama 729
728 FOXES OF HARROW
Reissues
Rex Harrison
Maureen O'Hara
Richard Haydn
Victor McLaglen
Vanessa Brown
1!—Sept. 27—PG-859
(89) Comedy
MAD WEDNESDAY
Harold Lloyd
Frances Ramsden
R—Feb. 22—Pa-792
Special
(73) Comedy 891
©FUN AND FANCY
FREE
Edgar Bergen
lllnah Shore
Luana Patten
it-Aug. 23—PG-849
|lo] (93) Drama 740
THE MARK OF ZORRO
Power-Darnell
[10] (103) Drama 741
DRUMS ALONG THE
MOHAWK
Claudette Colbert
(123) Comedy
MONSIEUR VERDOUX
Charles Chaplin
Martha Raye
R—Apr. 26—PG-813
[IB] (75) Outd'r-Mus 648
©ON THE OLD SPAN
ISH TRAIL
Roy Rogers
Tito Gulzar
lane Frazee
Andy Devlne
R—Nov. 1—PQ-870
[I5] (73) Drama 732 Special
THE INVISIBLE WALL |§ (140) Drama 733
R—Oct, 16—PG-865 ©FOREVER AMBER
[isl (111) Drama 730 Linda Darnell
NIGHTMARE ALLEY Cornel Wilde
Tyrone Power
Richard Greene
Joan Blondell
George Sanders
R—ect. 18—PG-865 R—Oct. 18—PG-866
(90) Drama
CHRISTMAS EVE
George Raft
George Brent
Joan Blondell
Randolph Scott
R—Oov. 8—Pa-873
Special
(103) Comedy 862
MAGIC TOWN
lames Stewart
lane Wyman
R—Aug. 30—PG-SBl
\n\ (78) Drama 4704 Herald (Negro)
55] (71) Mys-Dr 4703
THE BURNING CROSS [Is] (70) Musical X-1
DRAGNET
Hank Daniels
SEPIA CINDERELLA Henry WUcoxon
Vlrghila Patton
Billy Daniels
.Mary Bilao
R—July 26—PO-842 Skella Ouyse
Vlrlgnla Dale
Tondalayo
Douglass Dumbidllt
Ruble Blakey R—July 12—PQ-838
R— Aug. 9—PO-84B
Musical 621
IING IN THE
Durblo
n
O'Oninor
26—PO-842
•( I) Drama 701
B> 'ALLEY
le
I: Ino
At
jirk
2—PG-843
(79) Drama 622
SINGAPORE
l'>ed MacMurray
Ava Gardner
Richard Haydn
R—Aug. 16—PG-848
^
(118) Comedy 702
©LIFE WITH FATHER
William PoweU
Irene Dunne
Elizabeth Taylor
Bdmund Gweno
ZaSu Pitts
R—Aug. 23—Pa8S0
(98) Drama 624
FRIEDA
David Farrar
Glynls Johns
Flora Robson
R—Aug. 30—PG-852
(101) Drama 625
RIDE THE PINK HORSE
Robert Montgomery
Wanda Ilendrix
R—Sept. 20—PG-8B7
(78) Comedy 628
WISTFUL WIDOW OF
WAGON GAP
Abbott 4 Costello
Marjorle Main
Audrey Toung
R—Oct.
4—PG-862
§7] (106) Drama 703 Reissues
[n] (103) Drama 706
DARK PASSAGE
[4] (71) Drama 704
THE
Humphrey Bogart BAD
UNSUSPECTED
MEN OF MISSOURI Joan Oulfleld
Lauren Bacall
D. Morgan-J. Wyman
Claude Rains
Bruce Bennett
[4] (84) Drama 705
Audrey Totter
Agnes Moorehead EACH DAWN I DIE Hurd Hatfield
Tom D'Andrea
Cagney-Raft
R—Sept. 20—PO-858
R—Sept. 6—PQ-854
1
.
. ) Drama New Rel
(
©SOFIA
Gene Raymond
Sigrid Curie
( . ) Drama New Rel
BLONDE ICE
Leslie Brooks
Robert Paige
(73) Drama New Rel
MONEY MADNESS
Hudh Beaumont
R— Apr. 3—rO-918
(63) Drnma New Rel
ARGYLE SECRETS
W'illiam Gargan
Marjorle Lord
R—Apr. 24—PG-923
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: May 15, 1948
(74) Drama New Rel
DISCOVERY
Adm. R. E. Byrd
(61) Drama New Rel
DEVIL'S CARGO
John Calvert
RocheUe Hudson
R—Apr. 10—PO-920
(89) Drama New Rel
FURIA
(It.alian)
R—Oct. 18—PG-865
(90) Drama New Rel
WOMEN IN THE NIGHT
Tala Blrell
William Henry
R—Jan. 17—PG-891
(76) Drama New Rel
FOR YOU I DIE
Cathy Downs
R— Dec 27—PC-885
(77) Drama New Rel
SPIRIT OF WEST
POINT
Blanchard-Darts
R—Oct. 11—PG-803
(97) Drama Reissue
HENRY THE EIGHTH
Charles I^ughton
Robert IJonat
(81) Drama Rei.sstie
THE RETURN OF THE
SCARLET PIMPERNEL
Barry Barnes
(98) Drama Reissue
SCARLET PIMPERNEL
Merle Oberon
Leslie Howard
(124) Drama Reissue
THAT HAMILTON
WOMAN
VIven Leigh
Laurence Oliver

m
FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
NOVEMBER 1 NOVEMBER 8 NOVEMBER 15 NOVEMBER 22 NOVEMBER 29 DECEMBER 6
(77) Western 9S1 isd) Comedy 929
^ (66) Mystery 9
DECEMBER 13
DECEMBE.
(98) Comedy 931 jii] (62) Drama 923 ^ (67) Cone*
Western 964
[13) (68) Mystery 917 |2o] (56)
LAST ROUNDUP HER HUSBAND'S LONE WOLF IN LAST DAYS OF BOOT CRIME DOCTOR'S IT HAD TO BE YOU DEVIL SHIP
BLONDIE'S
Cene Autry
AFFAIRS
LONDON
HILL
GAMBLE
Ginger Rogers
Richard Lane
ANNIVERSARY
"Champion"
R—July 20—PG-841 Gerald Mohr
Charles Starrett
Warner Baxter
Cornel Wildge
Louise Campbell
Penny Singleton
Jean Heather
[6] (70) Musical 919 Nancy Saunders
Smiley Burnette
Micheline Cllelrel
Percy Waram
William Bishop
H—Oct n—PO-883
It—Jan.
TWO BLONDES AMD
17—PC-892 II—Feb. 14—PG-900 Roger Dann R—Oct. 25—PG-867 R—Dec. 6—PG-879
Steven Geray
R— Dec. 13—PG-SSl
A REDHEAD
R— Dec. 27—Pa-885
Q] (67) Outd'r-Dr 804 Reissue
[l5] (89) Drama 805 g (62) Drama 807 (58) Western 852
m
©RETURN OF RIN TIN [g] (110) Drama 735 WHISPERING CITY BLONDE SAVAGE SHADOW VALLEY
TIN
MAN IN THE IRON
aiil Lukas
Lief Erickson
Eddie Dean
IS—Nov. 8—Pa-871 MASK
R—Nov. 22—PO-876 Gale Sherwood R— Dec. 6—PG-880
R—Oct.
[T] (52) Western 758 (76) Drama 740 [15] (81) Drama 806
11—PG-864
fg]
STAGE TO MESA CITY GENTLEMAN AFTER LOVE FROM A
Al U line
DARK
STRANGER
R—Jan. 31—PG-896
R—Nov. 15—PG-873
^ (81) Drama 807
|14] (104) Musical 808 |2T] (141) Drama 811
[|] (103) Drama 809
DESIRE ME
©THIS TIME FOR GREEN DOLPHIN
KILLER McCOY
Greer Garsoo
KEEPS
STREET
Mickey Rooney
linbert MItchum
Esther Williams
Lana Turner
Brian Donlevy
Jimmy
Richard Hart
Durante
Richard Hart
James Dunn
Laurltz
R—Sept. 27—PO-860
Melchlor
Van Henin
Ann Blyth
Johnnie Johnston
Donna Reed
II—Nov. 1—PG-870
It—Oct. 4—PO-861 R—Oct. IS—PG-S65
Arthur Lake
1
Larry Sims
R— Dec. 27—PO. 5
r^
[T] (85) nrama 47
LOUISIANA
Gov. JImmIe Davis
Margaret Lindsay
n—Aug. 16—PQ-847
g
(95) Drama 470?
GOLDEN EARRINGS
Ray Mllland
.Marlene Dietrich
R—Aug. 30—PG 862
(681 lirnma
[|]
KING OF THE
BANDITS
Gilbert Roland
Angela Greene
Chrls-Pln Martin
624
|2| (65) Com-Dr 625
BOWERY BUCKAROOS
L. Gorcey-Bowery Boys
Allied Artists
(86) Drama AA3
THE GANGSTER
Bellta-B. Sullivan
R—Oct. 4—PG-862
(80) Comedy 4704
Igi]
OWHERE THERE'S
LIFE
Boh Hope
Signe Hasso
William Bendlx
R—Oct. 11—PO-864
[I] (68) Drama 626
THE CHINESE RING
Roland Winters
Louise Currle
R—Dec. 20—PG-884
[Tj (69) Drama 4705
BIG TOWN AFTER
DARK
Philip
Reed
Hillary Brooke
R—No». 22—PO-876
>
(58) Water! I
GUN TALK
Johnny Mack Brol
Virginia Christine;
Raymond Hatton
2^ (101) Comed:*;
ROAD TO RIO
Blng Crosby
Bob Hope
Dorothy Lamoar
R—Nov. 8—PO-f
Special
(8iO Comedy 864
MAN
ABOUT TOWN
.Maurice Chevalier
Kr.ancols Perler
Marcelie Derrien
R—Oct. 25—PG-867
Group 2
(65) Mystery 809
DICK TRACY MEETS
GRUESOME
Ralph Byrd
Boris Karloff
Ann Gwynn
R—Oct. 4—PG-861
Group 2
(97) Drama 807
OUT OF THE PAST
Robert MItchum
Jane Greer
li— Nov. 22—PG-875
Reissue
(60) Western
PAINTED DESERT
George O'Brien
Laraine Day
Ray Whitley
Group 2
883 (CO) Western!
WILD HORSE MEn
I'im Holt
Nan Leslie 1^1
It—Nov. 22—ra-'^tH'
[9] (95) Drama 624
THE FABULOUS TEXAN
William Elliott
.lohn Carroll
Catherine McLeod
Albert Dekker
R—Nov. 16—PG-873
Reissue
[a] (77) Western HC15
THE FRONTIERSMAN
William Boyd
Gabby Hayes
Russell Hiyden
|4] (97) Drama 628
THE FLAME
lohn Carroll
Vera Ralston
Robert Paige
Broderick Crawford
R—Jan. 17—PG-891
Reissue
|25| (69) Western HC16
SUNSET TRAIL
William Boyd
Gabby Hayes
Russell Hayden
^
(42) Outd'r-Dr 4707
WHERE THE NORTH
BEGINS
Russell Hayden
Jennifer Holt
[IB] (65) Mus-Wel
©UNDER COLORiO
SKIES
R—Dec. 20—PO-.S'
Ii|] (59) WesterIT
>
BANDITS OF DAC
CANYON
R— Dec. 13—PG-l
g
(103) Drama 720 (67) M'drsma 734 Reissue
[J]
(84) Drama
©SHEPHERD OF THE ROSES ARE RED
TOBACCO ROAD
VALLEY
linn Castle
Gene Tierney
Lon McCalltster
Peggy Knudsen
Dana Andrews
Edmund Qwenn
Patricia Knight
Peggy Ann Garner R—Nov 8—PO-872
R—June 14—PG-830
Reissue
(128) Drama
I
GRAPES OF WRH
Henry Fonda
Jane Darwell
John Carradlne
(104) Drins
BODY AND SOUL
John Garfield
Lllll Palmer
R— Aug. 16— PO-848
(80) Dramt-Docuni
THE ROOSEVELT
STORY
Kenneth Lynck
Ed Begley
Canada Lee
R—July 12—PO-837
(90) Drama
INTRIGUE
George Raft
June Havoc
R—Jan. 3—PO-887
(92) Drama 630
THE EXILE
Douglas Fairbanks )r.
Maria Montez
I'aule Croset
R—Oct 25—PO-868
\T\ (83) Drama 707
THAT HAGER GIRL
Ronald ReigaD
Shirley Temiile
Rory CaUinun
R—Oct 25—PG-868
(86) Drama 631
THE UPTURNED GLASS
James Mason
Rosamund John
Pamela Kelllno
Ann Stephens
R—Nov. 1—PO-869
g
(104) Drama 708
ESCAPE ME NEVER
Errol Flynn
Eleanor Parker
Ida Luplno
Gig Young
R—Nov. 8—PO-871
(77%) Drama 632 (88) Drama
©PIRATES OF
LOST MOMENT
MONTEREY
Busan Hayward
Maria Montez
Robert Cumolngs
Rod Cameron R—Oct. IS—PO-i;
Phillip Keed
Gale Sondergaard
R—Nov. 22—PG-876
Reissues
Hl (93)
JEZEBEL
Rette Darts
[13] (88) Drama
SLIGHT CASE OF
MURDER
Edward G. Robinson
Reissue
^
Drama 710
|i3) (116) Dram: '
ANTHONY ADVEe
Fredrlc March
Olivia de Hartllat
O
tn
(140) Drama
©DUEL IN THE SUN
IpiinlfiT .lones
Gregory Peck
Joseph Cot ten
Lionel B.irrymore
R^lan. 11—PG-780
m
(48) Drama
Bell Plot. Corp.
GIRL ON THE CANAL
R— Nov. 29—PG-877
(68) Docum-Dr
Eng. Films
SCHOOL FOR DANGER
B—Not. 29—PO-878
(61) Dncum-Dr
Eng, Films
CHILDREN ON TRIAL
R—Nov. 29— PG-878
(80) Musical
Four Continents
SPRINGTIME
B—Feb. 14—PG-902
(85) Drama
Jewish NafI Fimrt
MY FATHER'S HOUSE
R—Oct. 4— PG-861
(70) Alexander Drama
THE FIGHT NEVER
ENDS
EE
B—llir. (—PO-909
Sept. (85) Wesiern 1208
LADY IN A JAM
Irene Piinne
Ral|.h Bell.imy
Sept ISHi Wesiern 1121
LADY FROM CHEYENNE
I.oreita Young
Robert Preston
Oct. (711 My8t-r|
BLACK FRIDAY
Boris Karloff
Bi'la LuL'OsI
Oct (7'>i Myet-rB
THE BLACK CA'<
Alan Ladd
Basil Rathbona
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :: May 15, II

I
I
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGE
FEATURE CHART
r'
;EMBER 27
)
Musical 951
BOSl F SANTA R OSA
llolshots
White
Niirlecs
3— ro-
JANUARY 3
JANUARY 10
JANUARY 17
[3] (66) Mus-Com 808 jio] (91) Drama 809 (n] (71) Comedy 810
LINDA BE GOOD T-MEN
HEADING FOR HEAVEN
Marie Wilson
Dennis O'Keere
Stuart Erwtn
Elyse Knox
R—Dec. 20—PO-884 Glenda Farrell
John Hubbard
R—Nov. 1—PG-869
^
^
JANUARY 24
JANUARY 31
FEBRUARY 7
[9] (54) Western 962 (68) Musical 907
|23] (66) Mus-Dr 906 (94) Drama 934
[6] (88) Drama 802 (iU (66) Drama 910
SIX-GUN LAW GLAMOUR GIRL MARY LOU
LOVE TROUBLE WRECK OF THE WOMAN FROM
Stnrrett-Biirnetle
Virginia Grey
Robert Lowery
F. Tone-J. Blair
HESPERUS
TANGIER
li—Jan. 10—PO-890 Michael Duane
.loan Barton
It—Feb. 28—PO-905 Willard Parker
Adele Jergens
(81) Drama 932 Cene Knipa'a Orch. Glenda Farrell
(72) Drama 933 Edgar Ruchiuian
Stephen Dunne
©THE SWORDSMAN H—Jan. 3—PG-888 Krankle Carle
©PRINCE OF THIEVES Patricia While
Michael Duane
Ijarry Parks
R—Jan, 31— FG-895 J. Hall- P. Morlson R—Feb. 14—P0-8f R—Feb. 28—PG-905
H—Oct. 25—PG-8e7
R— Dec. 6—PG-879
(65) Western 853 |3l] (86) Drama 811 [t] (83) Drama 812
CHECK YOUR GUNS ©THE SMUGGLERS ADVENTURES OF
Eddie Dean
Michael Redgrave
CASANOVA
li—Jan 17—PG-892 Arturo de Cordova
Turban Bey
Lucille Bremer
R—Feb. 28—PO-905
FEBRUARY 14
|) Musical 810
NEWS
MAwford
i.cCracken
6—PO-879
[9] (119) Drama 813
UCASS TIMBERLANE
Spencer Tracy
Lana Turner
Zachary Scott
R—Nov. 8—PG-872
in W) Drama 814
IF WINTER COMES
Walter Pldgeon
Deborah Kerr
Angela Lansbury
R—Dec. 27—PG-885
[e] (99) Drama 815
HIGH WALL
Robert Taylor
Audrey Totter
Herbert Marshall
R— Dec. 20—PO-883
I
=— )
-ED
Drama
iiliciMUChum
(68) nrama
[U
SMART POLITICS
one Preisser
I'reddie Stewart
Nnel
Nelll
[10) (66) Comedy 4704
627
(53) Mus-West 686
JIGGS AND MAGGIE SONG OF THE DRIFTER
IN SOCIETY
.timmy Wakely
.loe Yule
Kenle Rlano
I!—Feb. 14—PG-900
^
|3l] (68) Western 4751
OVERLAND TRAIL
Johnny Mack Bro\\n
Raymond Hatton
Virginia Belmont
[t] (75) Drama 4709
FIGHTING MAD
Joe Kirkwood jr.
Elyse Knox
Leon Errol
R—Feb. 7—PO-898
[m] (66) Drama 4707
PERILOUS WATERS
Don Castle
Audrey Long
Peggy Knudson
[ie] (98) Drama 4708
WALK ALONE
Burt Lancaster
Llzabcth Scott
Wendell Corey
Kirk Douglas
R—Dec. 20—PG-883
5pai'
Drama 866
lay
29—P(:-878
Group 2
Group 2
Reissue
(114) Drama 808 (102) Drama 806 (60) Western
SO WELL
NIGHT SONG
LAWLESS VALLEY
REMEMBERED
Merle Oberon
George O'Brien
John Mills
Dana Andrews
Kay Sutton
Mariha Scott
Ethel Barrymore
Patricia Roc R—Nov. 15—PG-874
[T] (64) Com-Dr 701
[10] (72) Outd'r-Mus 644
[l|] (65) Drama
MAIN STREET KID ©GAY RANCHERO SLIPPY McGEE
Al Pearce
Ko.v Rogers
Don Barry
.lanet Martin
Tito Guizar
Dale Evans
Andy Devine
Tom Brown
R—Jan. 10—PG-889
702
884
Group 3
(91) Comedy 811
IF YOU KNEW SUSIE
Eddie Cantor
Joan Davis
R—Feb. 7—PG-897
[T] (61) Comedy 703
CAMPUS HONEYMOON
Richard Crane
Lyn Wilde
Lee Wilde
Hal Hackett
R—Feb. 14—PG-899
Special
(104) Drama 863
THE FUGITIVE
Henry Fonda
Dolores Del Rio
R— Nov. 15—PG-874
Reissue
(70) Drama 892
©BAMBI
Drama 4706
THE BIG
1—PG-869
Reissue
(58) Western
[U
HC13
PRIDE OF THE WEST
William Boyd
Gabby Hayes
Russell Hayden
Reissue
[T] (70) Western HC14
N OLD MEXICO
William Boyd
Gabby Hayes
Russell Hayden
(j> Drama
" KENYDN
..tord
lircwa
inda
irrick
J9—PO-8T8
731
(140) Drama 801
©CAPTAIN FROM
CASTILE
Tyrone Power
Jean Peters
Cesar Romero
Lee J. Cobb
John Sutton
R—Dec. 6—PG-880
(81) Drama 803
THE TENDER YEARS
Joe E. Brown
Richard Lyon
Noreen Nash
Charles Drake
R^Dec. 6—PO-880
(91) Musical 802
YOU WERE MEANT
FOR ME
Jeanne Crain
Dan Dalley
Oscar Levant
R—Jan. 24—PG-894
(62) Drama 804
DANGEROUS YEARS
William Halop
Scotty Beckett
Richard Gaines
(97) Drama
SLEEP, MY LOVE
laudctte Colbert
Robert Cummlngs
Don Amecbe
R—Jan. 17—PO-89
(90) Dramt
MAN OF EVIL
lames Mason
I'byllls Calvert
R—Feb. 7—PG-898
(107) Comedy
ON OUR MERRY WAY
(formerly A MIRACLE
CAN HAPPEN)
AU-Star Cast
R—Feb. 7—PG-898
Drams 629
NARCISSUS
Kerr
^'idjTrar
'-Jui 12—PG-838
(81) Drama 633
THE SENATOR WAS
INDISCREET
William Powell
Ella Raines
Arlcen Whelan
R—Dec. 20—PG-8S3
(93) Drama 652
CAPTAIN BOYCOTT
Stewart Granger
Kathleen Ryan
Cecil Parker
R—Dec. 6—PG-880
(97) Com-Dr
HOLIDAY CAMP
Flora Robson
Dennis Price
Hazel Court
Jack Warner
R—Mar. 6—PG-910
[y]
(96) Drama 634
A WOMAN'S
VENGEANCE
Cbarles Boyer
Ann Blytb
Jessica Tandy
R—Dec. 27—PG-886
j (J) Drama 711
pMWILD IRISH
ynlsj (organ
I r.„, ;i„g
H-
Fh
llll
13—PG-882
|io] (78) Drama 713
ALWAYS TOGETHER
loyce Reynolds
Robert Button
20—PG-884
R—D«
24] (126) Drama 714
TREASURE OF
SIERRA MADRE
Humphrey Bogart
Walter Huston
Tim Holt
Bruce Bennett
R—Jan 10—PG-890
(Tj (96) Drama 715
MY GIRL TISA
LlllI Palmer
Sam Wanamaker
R—Jan. 24—PO-893

EATURE CHART
V

1
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
FEATURE CHART

REVIEW DIGEST
and Alphabetical Picture Guide Index-
A
850 Adventure Island (67) Para 8-23-47 +
912 Adventures in Silverado (75) Col... 3-13-48 ±
905 Adventures of Casanova (83) EL 2-28-48 +
893 Albuquerque (90) Para 1-24-48 +
895 Alias a Gentleman (78) MGM 1-31-48 —
zee
± +
±
+
± +
CI
n
906 All My Sons (94) U-l 2-28-48 -H
884 Always Toncther (78) WB 12-20-47 ±
894 Angels' Alley (67) Mono 1-24-48 i:
925 Anna Karenina (HI) 20-Fox 5- 1-48 +
924 Another Part of the Forest (107) U-l 4-24-48 ff
913 April Showers (94) WB 3-20-48 +
904 Arch of Triumph (119) UA 2-21-48 +
913 Are You With It? (90) U-l 3-20-48 +
923Aroyle Secrets, The (63) FC 4-24-48 +
917 Arizona Ranger, The (63) RKO 4- 3-48 +
790Arnclo Affair, The (87) MGM 2-15-47 +
922 Arthur Takes Over (63) 20-Fox 4-17-48 +
929 Assigned to Danger (65) EL 5- 8-48 rt
B
903 8. F.s Daughter (110) MGM 2-21-48 +
826 Bachelor and the Bobby-Soxer (95)
RKO 6- 7-47 (+
881 Bandits of Dark Canyon (59) Rep. .
.12-13-47 +
919 Berlin Express (86) RKO 4-10-48 4+
929 Best Man Wins (75) Col 5- 8-48 +
915 Big City (111) MGM 3-27-48 +
904 Big Clock, The (95) Para 2-21-48 +
875 Big Town After Dark (69) Para 11-22-47 ±:
887 Bill and Coo (61) Rep 1- 3-48 +
875 Bishop's Wife, The (109) RKO 11-22-47 ++
±
897 Black Bart (SO) U-l 2-7-48
833 Black Gold (91) Allied Artists 6-28-47
900 Black Hills (60) EL 2-14-48
+
±
838 Black Narcissus (91) U-l 7-12-47 +
864 Blonde Savage (62) EL 10-11-47 ±
859 Blondie in the Dough (69) Col 9-27-47 ±
885 Blondie's Anniversary (67) Col 12-27-47 ±
848 Body and Soul (104) UA 8-16-47 ff
325 Bald Frontiersman, The (60) Rep... 5- 1-48 +
Bowery Buckaroos (66) Mono
905 Bride Goes Wild, The (98) MGM.. 2-28-48 +
873 Butkaroo From Powder River (55)
I Col 11-15-47 ±
+
+
+
-4-
+
+
+
850 Bulldog Drummond Strikes Back (65)
Col 8-23-47 ±
842 Burning Cross, The (77) SG 7-26-47
864 Bury Me Dead (66) EL 10-11-47
+
+
877 Bush Christmas (76) U-l 11-29-47 +
C
899 Caged Fury (60) Para 2-14-48 +
928 California Firebrand (63) Rep 5- 8-48 +
894 Call Northside 777 (111) 20-Fox,,. 1-24-48 ++
899 Campus Honeymoon (61) Rep 2-14-48 +
883 Captain Boycott (93) U-l 12-6-47 +
880 Captain From Castile (141) 20-Fox 12- 6-47 H
Casbah (93) U-l
872 Cass Timberlane (119) MGM 11- 8-47 ft
906 Challenge, The (68) 20-Fox 2-2S-48 +
877 Check Your Guns (55) EL 11-29-47 +
886 Cheyenne Takes Over (58) EL 12-27-47 +
884 Chinese Ring, The (67) Mono 12-20-47 ±
872 Christmas Eve (90) UA 11- 8-47 +
921Close-Up (72) EL 4-17-48 ±
881 Crime Doctor's Gamble, The (66) Col, 12-13-47 ±
Crossed Trails (53) Mono
D
B78Uaisy Kenyon (99) 20-Fox 11-29-47 -H
884 Dangerous Years (62) 20-Fox 12-20-47 +
854 Dark Passage (106) WB 9-6-47 +
*»3Deep Valley (106) WB 8- 2-47 -H
896 Design for Death (48) RKO 1-31-48 +
860 Desire Me (91) MGM 9-27-47 +
879 Devil Ship (62) Col 12-6-47 ±
97b Devil's Cargo (61) FC 4-10-48 ±
861 Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (65) RKO 10- 4-47 +
Discovery (74) FC
Docks of New Orleans (70) Mono
887 Double Life, A (103) U-l 1- 3-48 +
844 Down to Earth (101) Col 8- 2-47 ft
838 Dragnet (71) SG 7-12-47 ±
927 Dream Girl (85) Para 5-8-48 +
874 Driftwood (90) Rep 11-15-47 ±
Dude Goes West. The (87) Allied Artists

1
I
I
An interpretative analysis of opinions deducted from the language of lay
and trade press reviews. The plus and minus signs indicate the degree
of favor or disfavor of the review. This department serves also as an
ALPHABETICAL INDEX to feature releases. Numeral preceding title is
Picture Guide Review page number. In parentheses after title is running
time. Date following distributor is BOXOFFICE review date. Listings cov*.
current reviews. It is brought up to dote regularly. The meaning of the
various signs and their combinations is as follows:
+t Very Good; + Good; — Fair; — Poor; = Very Poor.
In the summary H is rated as 2 pluses; = as 2 minuses.
ai
!86SL0St Moment, The (88) U-l..-
923 Lost One. The (84) Col
847 Louisiana (85) Mono
873 Love From a Stranger (81) EL
792
911
S51
893
367
908
S98
S95
914
839
907
917
M
.lO-lg-47
. 4-24-48
. 8-16-47
.11-15-47
904
918
613
852
1
879
925
'893
882
N
896 Naked City, The (96) U-l 1-31-48
531 News Hounds (68) Mono 6-21-47
876 Nicholas Nickleby (95) U-1 11-22-47
|874 Night Song (102) RKQ 11-15-47
865 Nightmare Alley (111) 20-Fox 10-18-47
920 Noose Hangs High. The (85) El 4-10-48
o
913 October Man, The (85) EL
907 Oklahoma Badlands (59) Rep
921 Old Los Angeles (87) Rep
|926 On an Island With You (107) MGM
On Our Merry Way (formerly Miracle
3-20-4S
3- 6-48
4-17-4S
5- 1-48
Can Happen, A) (107) UA 2- 7-48
870 On the Old Spanish Trail (75) Rep. 11- 1-47
JS93 Open Secret (70) EL 1-24-48
|S53 Out of the Blue (84) EL 9- 6-47
1875 Out of the Past (96) RKO 11-22-47
1

¥ m JQ^
Short
Columbia
Prod. No. Title Rel. Date Rating Rev'd
ASSOCIATED COMEDIES
9421 Wedding Belle (Schilling
& Lane) (17) 10- 9 + 11-29
9422 Should Husbands Marry?

SHORTS CHART
20th
Century-Fox
f
Prod. No. Title Rel. Date Rating Rev'd
DRIBBLE PUSS PARADE
S901 Album of Animals (8).. 11-21 i: 9-27
8902 Divino to Live (9) May
FEMININE WORLD
8601 Somctliino Old—Somethinj New
(Ilka Chase) (8) Feb. + 2-28
8602 Fashioned (of Action
(Ilka Chase) (8) Apr. * 4-17
tt 6-14
H MS
+ 8- 2
5 + B-30
++ 1-31
++ 2-28
^

"
'
SHORTS REVIEWS
Opinions on the Current Short Sub'iects-
Going to Blazes
MGM (Theatre of Life) 21 Mins.
Very good. Informative as well as interestholding.
Latest in the new series which uti
lizes real people, actual backgrounds and true
happenings, this examines the nation's $600,-
000,000 annual fire loss. The film opens with
some human interest touches in and about
the fire house. Several views of average
small town fires are shown and then the
causes are explained in detail. Filmed with
the cooperation of the Associated Press and
the Los Angeles fire department
Make Mine Freedom
MGM (Cartoon in Technicolor) 10 Mins.
Good. A different type of cartoon which
emphasises the benefits to be found under
American way of life as opposed to "isms.
The average man and woman are often puzzled
which way to turn but eventually they
give a star-spangled reaffirmation of America's
belief in democracy.
Kitty Foiled
MGM (Tom and Jerry Cartoon) 7 Mins.
Good. A clever and amusing cartoon ir
Exhibitor Has His Say
(Continued from page 3)
die of a story. If your patrons like a show
that's easy to understand, skip this one.
Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair.—George Mac-
Kenzie, York Theatre, Hantsport, N. S. Small
town patronage. * *
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL
Destry Rides Again (U-I)—Reissue. James
S.ewart, Marlene Dietrich, Charles Winninger.
I ran this one years ago and it is just as
good as ever. It's fine. Plenty of action spiced
with comedy—a song or two and a wonderful
cast. Played Sun., Mon., Tues. Weather:
Fair.—Bill Leonard, Leonard Theatre, Cedarvale,
Kas. Small town patronage. * * *
Great Expectations (U-I)—John Mills, Valerie
Hobson, Bernard Miles. A very fine production,
superbly acted and directed, well
:.eserving of the Academy awards it won.
Business was slow as it naturally would be
on a picture of this caliber, since a sense of
appreciation for the finer things of life is
generally lacking here. It deserves far more
exploitation than Universal gave it. Played
Tues., Wed. Weather: Cold.—Carl E. Pehlman,
Rio Theatre, Edinburg, 111. Ftural and
small town patronage. * * *
WARNER BROS.
Dark Passage (WB)—Humphrey Bogart,
Lauren Bacall, Bruce Bennett. Bogart is good
in this one and the story fits his type okay.
People enjoyed it. Played Fri., Sat. Weather.
Okay.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome,
Ariz. Mining patronage. * *
Hare Grows in Manhattan (WB)—Short.
This is one of the best Bugs Bunny shorts
I have ever played. Adults as well as children
waited for the second show to see it
again. The print in excellent condition, also
the sound. Played Sat., Mon. Weather: Fair.
—S. N. Holmberg, Regal Theatre, Sturgis,
Sask. Rural patronage. *
UMy Wild Irish Rose (WB)—Dennis Morgan,
Arlene Dahl, Andrea King. The audience
liked this. I found parts of it a little boring
and would have liked to have seen more of
the minstrels. Arlene Dahl is all right. Played
Sun., Mon. Weather: Rain.—Marcella Smith,
Vinton Theatre, McArthur, Ohio. Small town
patronage. * * * In
Technicolor in which a little canary is costarred
with the mischievous mouse and the
watchful cat. Tom Cat thinks he is going to
catch either the bird or the mouse for his
lunch, but the two little creatures lead Tom
a merry chase and finally outwit him.
The Midnight Snack
MGM (Tom and Jerry Cartoon) 9 Mins.
Good. Another clever cat vs. mouse cartoon
in Technicolor. The mouse-hungry Tom lies
in waiting to pounce upon Jerry when the
tiny rodent emerges from the refrigerator
with a huge hunk of sv^iss cheese. He holds
the mouse by the tail while he further tortures
him by making a feast out of the icebox
goodies. But the cook arrives and' chases
Tom with a broom.
You Can't Win
MGM (Pete Smith Specialty) 9 Mins.
Good. Dave O'Brien again enacts the role
of Mr. Average Man who finds himself on
the losing end while trying to cope with ordinary
household problems. He struggles with
a trick cigaret lighter, a hammock that won't
stay up, a persistent insurance salesman and
the Newsreels
Movietone News, No. 36: Eisenhower holds
press conference at Columbia university; New
York loyalty parade; Japanese eucharistic procession;
apple blossom festival; Texas City
first recovery festival; burned-out city of Laramie
helped out by little Marshall plan; fashions
in gold; Citation wins Kentucky Derby.
News of the Day, No. 270: Palestine report;
army bids goodbye to "Ike"; May day around
the world; apple blossom time in Dixie; film
story of 1948 Kentucky Derby.
Paramount News. No. 73: Apple blossom
time; the General takes leave of his troops;
May day around the globe; Kentucky Derby.
Universal News, No. 140: Red demonstration
overshadowed in Oslo, Copenhagen, Toyko
and New York; May day celebrations; Eisenhower
takes over presidency at Columbia;
Citation wins Kentucky Derby.
V/arner Pathe News, No. 75: Eisenhower
leaves the army; Europe hails new U.S. aid;
bus village for Tokyo homeless; chimps in
the news; Kentucky Derby.
Movietone News, No. 37: Republicans battle
for presidential nomination; President
speaks about housing and family welfare; a
gas blast demolishes home in Long Island;
tornadoes in West Virginia and Texas; General
Wainwright honored by Masons; chimpanzees
clean St. Louis zoo; the U.S. prepares
for the Olympics.
News of the Day, No. 271: President sees
peril in housing shortage; spectacular flight
over China's highest peak; flash tornado
leaves wide ruins in Texas; Dewey's campaign
in far west; fashions in lace for summer
wear; lighter side of the news.
Paramount News, No. 74: Primary battles;
the world's tiniest dogs; family life meeting
hears President; Olympic divers.
Universal News, No. 141: Navy's Mothball
fleet ready for action; Truman lauds family
life; princess inspects Holland coal mines;
tornado levels Texas town; gas blast wrecks
New York residence; helicopter flies inside
building; chimps do spring cleaning; diving
queens in pre-Olympic workout.
Warner Pathe News, No. 76: Freak disaster
across • coun:ry; Holland princess visits coal
mine; trouble in Trieste; Koreans riot in Japan;
major minds baby by radio; moonlight fashions;
Great Americans—Emerson,
a shirt with too much starch in it. One of the
funniest moments show him trying to wash
his car while passing vehicles continue to
splash mud from nearby puddle.
Puss 'n
Toots
MGM (Tom and Jerry Reissue) 7 Mins.
Good. A reissue of one of the mos; popular
Tom and Jerry cartoons. When a pretty kilty
comes to call, Tom trots out all his tricks in
an effort to impress her. However, he reckons
without Jerry, the mischiveous mouse, who
spoils his act.
Battle for Greece
20th-Fox (March of Time) 17 Mins.
Good. The latest in the MOT series on the
"cold war" between the western powers and
Russia. This issue points out the fact that
in Greece the "cold war" is really a shooting
war between U.S. and British-trained Greek
troops and those of the left. There also are
scenes of Prime Minister Sophoulis, the 88-
year-old Greek leader, and his cabinet, plus
shots of the American and British military
missions. With Greece constantly in the headlines,
this short is timely.
All American News, Vol. 6, No. 289: 104-
year-old ex-slave and Civil War veteran celebrates
birthday; Colonel Davis welcomes air
corps recruits; Haile Selassie received memorial
album from people of Brussels; Cincinnati
Clowns beat Memphis Red Sox in
exhibition game; annual Wood Lake Country
club rodeo in San Antonio thrills crowds; annual
women's AAU indoor track meet at the
University of Chicago.
•
All American News, Vol. 6, No. 2"0: Nurses
learn X-ray technique; Booker T. Washington
basketball team wins national championship;
the Earlie Wightman family of Pine Bluff,
Ark., is named "form family of the year" by
the Farmer's Home administration; Mr. and
Mrs. Claude Barnett display curios of trip to
Africa; national defense conference held in
Washington.
•
Telenews Digest, No. 18: Red marchers in
May day parades around the world; first
films of civil war in Costa Rica; first ERP
aid ship arrives in Holland; western nations
meet in London to discuss military pact;
Norway—U.S. warships in show of force; the
body of Manuel Roxas, first president of the
Philippine republic, goes to its final resting
place; Bulgarian Prime Minister George Divitroff,
former head of the Comintern, arrives
in Prague to sign a pact with Klement Gottwald;
aluminum from wrecked planes is converted
to household articles in an industrial
reclamation project; Congress moves to outlaw
the Communist party; climax reached in
oleo-butter fight; Eisenhower, still in uniform,
is greeted on the doorstep of his new house
at Columbia university; first new half-dollar
in 32 years is minted in Philadelphia, home
of Ben Franklin whose portrait appears on
the coin; European children, in New York for
the UN Overseas Aid Appeal, are shown the
sights of the city; Camden, N. J. police lake
thousands of illegal slot machines for their
last ride to the city dump; new liquid spray
waterproofs clothing; Ted Horn wins a 100-mile
competition for America's lop auto racers at
Arlington Downs; development of an electricdriven
surfboard brings another water sport
within range of the lazy fan; expert skijumping
contests in Norway are attended by
King Haakon; Olympic competition is brought
down to kids' level, as Sweden starts national
matches for the vital sports of marble-shooting
and tricycle racing.
14 BOXOFFICE BookinGuide May 15, 1948

Opinions on Current Productions; Exploitips for Selling to the Public FEATURE REVIEWS
The Fuller Brush Man
F
Comedy
The Iron Curtain
F
Semidocumentary
Melodrama
Columbia ( ) 92 Minutes Rel.
20lhFox (816) 87 Minutes
Rel. May '48
Remembering the numerous jokes of which Mr. Fuller's
bright boy has been the butt, and with cognizance oi Red
Skelton's celebrated talent for buffoonery, comedy devotees
will chuckle at the mere prospect of the latter portraying that
itinerant purveyor of household gadgets. When they see it
as an actuality, the chuckles will grow to loud and continuous
guffaws, for seldom has such a carnival of gags and
slapstick been reduced to celluloid. Mounted wi;h the opulence
characteristic of Producer Edward Small, the vehicle
was hand-tailored for Skelton's sizable and diversified bag
of tricks. Inescapably the offering will find a place on the
"must see" list of all seekers of escapist entertainment—and
that spells top grosses in any man's show house. It's a
Harold Lloydish story with the title roler a lovable goon
getting into jams. Directed by S. Sylvan Simon.
-lit)
Tni\
ns[/
A title familiar in the daily headlines has been lilted onto
a semidocumentary melodramatic story based on the aiomic
bomb spy disclosures in Canada some time back Canadian
backgrounds are used to give it authenticity. It Communist
front organizations had not been carrying on a campaign
against showing of the picture, it would be just another good
spy story, with suspense well maintained. Because of the
opposition from friends of Russia it has become a controversial
film supposedly charged with social significance and
an intent to influence international policy. This makes it
necessary for an exhibitor to decide whether his audiences
want straight entertainment — escapism — or entertainment
weighted with political problems. William W. Wellman directed
from a script by Milton Krims. Sol T. Siegel, producer.
Red Skelton, Janet Blair, Don McGuire, Hillary Brooke, Adele
Jergens, Ross Ford, Trudy Marshall, Nicholas Joy.
Gene Tierney. Dana Andrews, June Havoc, Edna Best,
Barry Kroeger.
So This Is New York
Comedy
Fighting Father Dunne
F
United Artists (581) 80 Minutes Rel.
Because with praiseworthy adroitness the picture captures
the feeling, atmosphere and dialog of the writings of the
late, great Ring Lardner, it should assert a strong appeal
among the countless enthusiasts about his works. The film
is based on one of the author's most popular yarns, "The
Big^Town." Its continuous humor, resultantly, is characterisically
wholesome with just enough tongue-in-cheek to assure
an additional fillip for the sophisticated' and nostalgic.
Another very definite exhibition asset is the presence in the
topline of Radio Comedian Henry Morgan, who has millions
of listening fans, many of whom will be eager to see him on
the screen for the first time. Those two phases alone should
guarantee the offering's boxoffice success—especially in de
luxe bookings—and they are bolstered by class in production,
performances and the direction of Richard O. Fleischer.
Henry Morgan, Rudy Vallee, Hugh Herbert, Bill Goodwin,
Leo Gorcey, 'Virginia Grey, Dona Drake, Jerome Cowan.
RKO Radio (- -) 93 Minutes Rel. June '48
Pathos, tender humor and a strong religious theme are
woven into a good boxoffice bet for family situations. Pat
O'Brien is warm and human as the struggling priest who
built a home for underprivileged newsboys in the early
1900s. The story is not dissimilar to "Boys Town" in that it
strikes a note of faith and brotherly love. Deft underplaying
of the more emotional scenes avoids suggestions of sacchirine
sentiment. The laughs are well paced, Una O'Connor
and Charles Kempner contribute two outstanding characterizations
with delightful touches of humor Arthur Shields,
familiar to audiences, is a crusty Irishman who sponsors
O'Brien's project. Darryl Hickman is excellent as the newsboy
O'Brien couldn't save from a life of crime. He accidentally
kills a policeman and is hanged. Heartbroken. O'Brien continues
fighting for his boys. Ted Tetzloff directed
Pal O'Brien, Dairyl Hickman, Charles Kempner, Una
O'Connor, Arthur Shields, Harry Shannon.
River Lady
F
Action Drama
(Technicolor)
\.,T
Under Caliiornia Stars
F
Musical Western
(Trucolor)
Univ-Int'I (661)
78 Minutes Rel. May '48
Republic (731)
70 Minutes
Rel. May 1, '48
Exhibitors in the market for an outdoor actioner with romance
will find "River Lady" to their liking. The four-way
love interest involving Yvonne DeCarlo, Dan Duryea, Rod
Cameron and Helena Carter is milked for all it's worth
against a brawling 19th century background of logging camps
and a Mississippi gamiiling ship. Technicolor photography
proves highly decorative and helpful. Half the time the romantic
antics of the principals seem to make little sense.
Miss DeCarlo, owner of the gambling ship, and Miss Carter,
daughter of the local lumber king, compete for Cameron's
love. He works for Miss Carter's father first as a logger
then as an executive, and is in love with Miss DeCarlo. So
is Duryea, a gambler. However, Cameron resents Miss De
Carlo's efforts to make a gentleman of him and he marries
Miss Carter. Direction by George Sherman is crisp.
Yvonne DeCarlo, Dan Duryea, Rod Cameron, Helena Carter.
Lloyd Gough, Florence Bates, John Mclntire.
Herein Roy Rogers is portrayed as himself, a motion picture
and radio star and a gentleman rancher. At first blush
such story idea appears to have considerable merit. But
when the scriveners thereof were confronted with the unavoidable
necessity of interjecting those basic ingredients
demanded by western fans, they found themselves in trouble.
For dramatic backbone they decided to make a kidnapping
victim— in reality it's hossnapping—of Trigger, Roy s
horse. Then, to bolster that weak thread, they latched onto
the hackneyed device of a boy and his dog. The result is
an unconvincing literary hodge-podge in which the standarn
fist fights, gun duels, chases and villainy seem out of piacs.
On the asset side, however, there are effective Trucolor
photography and the usual sprinkling of pleasing musico.
interludes. Directed' by William Witney,
Roy Rogers, Jane Frazee, Andy Devine, George H. Lloyd,
Wade Crosby, Michael Chapin. House Peters jr.
Casbah
Melodrama
Guns of Hate
F
Univ-Int'l (655)
94 Minutes Rel. April '48
On the lavish standard, from bizarre costumes, exotic
dancing by Katherine Dunham and her dusky cohorts, to
the emotions of the people who live in this out-of-bounds
section of Algiers for which the film is named. Tony Martin,
co-owner in the Marston studios which produced this, plays
and sings effectively the part of a glamor-boy thief, Pepe
Le Moko, who cannot leave the Casbah for fear of arrest.
Peter Lorre, sinister in his suavest manner as the police
inspector, uses Pepe's infatuation for a French girl tourist
to entice him outside the safety of the Casbah. For sophisticated
audiences, this will have bizarre charm, but those who
come to see Katherine Dunham and her dancers risk disappointment.
Neighborhood shows and small town situations
will not be impressed. Settings are interesting and it is well
cost. John Berry directed.
Yvonne DeCarlo, Dan Duryea, Rod Cameron, Helena Carter,
Hugo Haas, Thomas Gomez, Douglas Dick.
932
15
^oyomcF. May 15. 1948
RKO Radio (819)
61 Minutes Rel.
Selection of titles for run-o'-mill westerns apparently is
just as much a production problem as determination of story
material. Obviously the handle hung on this Tim Holt starrer
could aptly apply to almost any stock galloper. It happens,
however, that the yarn is the one about the fabulously-rich
lost gold mine, rediscovered by the old prospector who
promptly is done in by the heavies so that they can get the
well-worn map and jump the claim. While evident in prescribed
doses are the action ingredients, the film nonetheless
assays a few karats below the laudable average established
in their field by the long line of predecessors in the Holt
series. That's nothing to worry about, however, because the
offering will do its part in the field at which it is aimed.
Directed by Lesley Selander.
Tim Holt. Nan Leslie, Richard Martin, Steve Brodie,
Dell, Tony Barrett, Jim Nolan.
Myrna
on

. . Behind
. . And
. . When
—
. . Den
. . Because
. . Two
. . She
. . Your
. .
EXPLOITIPS Suggest'iMS for Selling; Adlines for Newspaper and Programs v
SELLING ANGLES: "The Iron Curtain"
SELLING ANGLES:
"The Fuller Brush Man"
One hoopla approach to the sale of this picture will be to
stir the indignation of the civic organizations over the presence
of Russian spies on this continent. Some ballyhoo
slants can also be worked out from the title. This approach
will go for the spy melodrama fans.
In communities where there are the so-called friends of
Russia and the red-front groups they will stir up the publicity
and might do some picketing. They have been protesting
for weeks.
: CATCHLINES:
Canada Tore
Are the Atom Bomb Secrets Safe? . . .
Aside the Iron Curtain and Found Itself Spy a Hotbed . . .
It's Gripping, It's Fear-Inspiring, It's Devastating.
Behind Harmless Appearing Fronts They Plotted . . . They
Were Trying to Steal Secrets from An Ally . . . They Were
Plotting World Conquest by Communism.
for.
to r
,mou
? Uf
Local representatives of the Fuller Brush company should
be invited as "guests of honor" on opening night and urged
to plug the picture thereafter in their house-to-house calls.
Tieups are indicated with the Red Skelton airshow. Use a
man dressed as a janitor and working with an out-sized
brush in street ballyhood, with a placard: "Red Skelton is
cleaning up the laughs in 'The Fuller Brush Man' at the
Blank Theatre." Place a giant laughing head of Skelton
in the lobby and play a laugh record behind it.
CATCHLINES:
Let Yourself Go . Here Comes the Screen's
Biggest Laughs . . . Red Skelton, That Carrot-Topped Comedy
Riot . . . Turns in His Funniest Performance ... In This
Season's Howl-a-Minute Hit.
If You're Looking for Laughs . Search Is Ended . . .
Because Red Skelton Breaks All Hilarity Records
Try to Stop Howling as Red Travels from Door to
And Laugh to Laugh.
. . . Just
Door .
SELLING ANGLES:
"Fighting Father Dunne"
SELLING ANGLES:
"So This Is New York"
Since this is the kind of picture women's clubs and church
and civic groups endorse, efforts should be made to gain
the sponsorship of these organizations. If there is a home
for underprivileged children in your community, a benefit
opening may be arranged as a goodwill gesture. Pat O'Brien
is the only strong marquee name, but Darryl Hickman is
familiar to juveniles. Standard ballyhoo should be avoided
because of the religious theme.
Make a play for the patronage of former Gotham residents
in your community through special invitations via telephone
or personal notes. As mailing pieces prepare facsimiles, of
"tickets" entitling "bearer to a hilarious sight-seeing trip
through New York," with picture and theatre credits. Buy
spot announcements in conjunction with the Henry Morgan
airshow if it is heard in your community. Persuade the radio
editor of local newspaper to see the film as your guest
and review it in his column.
CATCHLINES:
Pat O'Brien as the Fighting Priest Who Saw Good in All
Boys . . . He Battled a City and Saved a Generation ... A
Picture That Hits You Where Your Heart Is ... A Human
Story About Real People.
SELLING ANGLES: "Under Calilomia Stars"
-mei
bunc
glob
CATCHLINES:
You've Roared at Him on the Air . . . Now Come Along
and Meet the Screen's Newest, Freshest, Funniest Comedy
Panic . . . It's Henry Morgan in His Screen Bow . . . And We
Guarantee You'll 'Vote Him the Hit of the Year ... in the
Picture That Will Have You Rolling in the Aisles.
America Has Hailed Him as the Funniest Man in Radio . . .
and Henry Morgan Now Proves He's the Screen's Greatest
New Comedy Discovery . . . People Who Know Entertainment
Best . . . Are Going Crazy Over This Laugh Panic.
SELLING ANGLES:
"River Lady"
Both Roy Rogers and the Sons of the Pioneers hove vast
followings among collectors of western and hillbilly records.
Make music store and radio station tieups on these and arrange
to have juke boxes in the vicinity feature their platters.
Check with local exchange on the many commercial tieups
that have been worked out for Rogers. Make sure that juvenile
fans have been organized into a "Roy Rogers Rangers"
club or similar organization and use the club's activities in
promotion and advertising on the picture.
You have three names to work with—Yvonne DeCarlo,
Dan Duryea and Rod Cameron. They have a following
among action fans and patrons of outdoor romances. Concentrate
on these personalities in your lobby displays and
window cards. If you can get your hands on a model of a
Mississippi type river boat (paddle wheels) use it for a
lobby attraction. Advertise for such model in the classified
newspaper ads, and offer passes in return for the loan.
CATCHLINES:
CATCHLINES:
Here Comes That King of the Cowboys . . .
New Highs in Action Musical Entertainment . . .
Bad Men in a Showdown Fight . . . Singin' Great
door Ballads . . . Just the Way You Like Him.
Gunnin'
Blastin'
New Out-
for
the
Her Love Was Ruthless, Her Beauty Sultry ... He Found
Her Irresistible, But Feared Her Love . . . Freedom 'Versus
Love, He Chose Freedom . Knew Every Trick of
Romance.
. . . It's the
The Wild West's Jumping With Action and Thrills ... As
Roy Rogers Hits the Saddle Again ... In the Kind of High-
Flying, Thrill-a-Minute Adventure You Love
Cowboy King's All-Ttime Best.
Thrill Upon Thrill . . . The Stirring Story of a Man Torn
Between 'Two Loves . Women Battled for His Heart
. . . Nature's Savage Forces Pitted Against Man's Cunning
and Greed.
SELLING ANGLES: "Guns of Hate"
SELLING ANGLES:
"Casbah"
Arrange for local retailers to feature window displays of
western garb such as levis, riding boots and cowboy hats
along with stills from the picture. Decorate your lobby in
western style and have attendants dressed in typical cowboy
attire. Place a sign over the boxoffice or over the snack-bar
reading: "Check Your Guns Here." Contact local Tim Holt
fan clubs to attend special showings. Use sidewalk signs
in the shape of a gun which read: "The 'Guns of Hate' Are
Pointing at the Blank Theatre."
CATCHLINES:
The Burst of Blazing Guns
. . . The Sound of Pounding
Hooves . . . It's a Thrill-Packed Picture You Won't Want to
Miss . . . Tim Holt Rides the Range ... In an Adventure-
Laden Package of Thrills and Excitement.
of
. . Tim Holt at His
There's Action a-Plenty That Fighting Man of
Saga
.
the West Goes Into Action . . . It's a Hot-Blooded
Rough Shooting . Hard Riding .
AU-Time Best . the Blazing Guns of Hate . . . Ready
to Fire at the Drop of a Hat.
athe
>try:
s. No
id
Four of the hit tunes from the picture have been recorded
and can be used over public address systems in the lobby
in advance of the show. Local orchestras may be induced
to feature the songs if provided with music and arrangements.
Have a pretty girl dress in Algerian costume and parade the
streets as "Miss Casbah." Get local music stores to stock
the hit songs, and local book stores to feature a display of
books about Algeria.
CATCHLINES:
Casbah—Forbidden Quarter of Algiers . . . Aflame With
Intrigue, Aglow With Music, Afire With Romance . . . "For
Every Man There Is a Woman"—for Whom He Will Risk
Death! . of a Thousand Thieves, Rendezvous for
Romance.
Pepe Le Moko—Hunted by the Police, Loved by Women . . .
Slimane—Knows the Sins of the Casbah and the Weakness
of a Man in Love . . . Gaby—Too Beautiful to Resist, Dangerous
to Touch . . . Inez—Who Loves a Man and Will Keep
Him, or See Him Killed.
I

I rear
ITES: 10c per word, minimum $1.00, cash with copy. Four insertions ior price ol three.
OSING DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy and answers to
Box Numbers to BOXOFHCE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 1, Mo. •
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED
Drive-in deal \utli SUS i.ivcil me $5,000." says
iLippy i'>JiibiIur. "Your $2,495 DeVry outfit
,,iiilli thrice Hie price." Super Simplex E-7,
. ciior, Brenkeit. Moliogniph. Century, RCA or
iliilt'.x 4 Star Sdurul with high intensity arcs
ijy hflow the m;irket. Wire or write now! New
jrcss, S.O.S. Cimena Supply Corporation, Drive-
I'Oept.. i;02 W. 52nd St., New York 19.
Drive- Ins—need more power? Western Electric
il'-walt Booster amplifiers, fit any sound sys-
11, $1350. Twin In-C;tr Speakers with junction
I $Ii;.75. complete; 70/140 ampere motor
iiors. $525. Super SnapUte fl. 9 lenses
$150. (Liberal trade-ins). New address,
: s Cinema Supply Corp., Drive-In Dept., fi02
\ ^Jnd St.. New York 19.
CUflRldG HOUSt
laytJme shadowbox beiided screens, collapsible,
'ii! in.. Horth $125. now $44.50; soundfilm
lifiers. $29.50 up; coinometers, $49.50; porta-
.iamm sound projectors, $89.50 up; 16mm
III projectors, $109.75 up; complete PA sys-
^. $44.75; rebuilt General two unit electric
ri machines. $139.50. Send for sales bulletin,
address. S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp.. 602
\ St.. New York 19.
,ust a few left. A marvelous buy! Simplex
Slianisms. genuine Simplex rear shutters, double
ing movements, cast iron traps, removable
g|«, excellent condition, only $169.50. Star
>ma Supply. 459 W. 46th St., New York 19.
omplete booth equipment at a bargain! Simshutter
projectors, pedestals, magazines,
less lamphouses, rectifiers, RCA sound syslenses,
perfect condition, only $965. Star
,
ma Supply. 459 W. 46th St., New York 19 .
ave your machines rebuilt and modernized by
ory methods. All work guaranteed. Movements
pecialty. Projection Service & Supply Co.,
North 11th St., Minneapolis 3, Minn.
air Super Simplex type heads, factory rebuilt
a' Ruaranteed same as new, $875 the pair. Also,
sjdard rear shutter Simplex heads, $550 per
rebiiili. Also bases, magazines, lamps, rectify
pj
. sound systems at bargain prices. Columbia
S'irl Service. Box 27, Charleston. W. Va.
ake extra profits. Rebuilt and new coin
II. ited 5c selective candy bar vending machines,
1 rrson weighting scales, coin counting machines.
F list. Adair Company, 6924 Roosevelt. Oak
I''.
Ill,
jmplete set. late model Holmes portable 35mm
N 1 projectors, stands. Priced right. \\. J.
T 1125 Gordon Ave.. Reno. Nev.
vo Simplex 35mm portable projectors, comjii-
with amplifier, sound horn for screen, sound
hi for booth. Everything fully equipped and
riy to use. Complete for $900 cash. Fred
Sjce, Lakin, Kas.
-i jr Sale 'as is'—Used ttieatre equipment, seats:
vter and upliolstered. cooling equipment, pop-
«( mactiines, candy cases, light fi.xtures, electric
m trs, etc. List furnished upon request. Malco
T tres. Inc.. 20" .\danis .^ve.. Memphis. Tenn.
argains. Bargains, from a reliable theatre operat
of 40 years experience. Complete booth equipin
. including Simplex double-bearing, rear shuttf
complete sound, amplifier, motors, pedestal,
m izine. Price, complete, $800. 30 days guarar
•
or money refunded. Also one p.TJr Super
Si 'lex mechanism, rebuilt like new. Price $800.
I A one pair Holmes educators, sound with
Mh lamps, factory rebuilt. $500 for the pair.
81 e bearing movement, rebuilt $10 each. Doubl
bearing movement, genuine Simplex, all new
P!'. price $35 each. 30 days guarantee. Inter-
B !nt brand neiv sprockets, 50% off from list
Pr|. Change-overs for Simples projectors, $35
m
lair. Brand new Amplifiers, 1948 models, for
res, $150 each. 30-dav guar.antee. Phillip
B d, 1330 Chase .\ve.. Cbicago 45, HI.
le cooling equipment, 40,000 cu. ft., three
spl seven h.p. fan motor, remote control, five
b pump motor, remote control. Four gas steam
•rs, $25 each. One 7,500-vent fan, $25. One
" cooler, $5. Eisht oil on velour murals with
ler, $25 each. 50 yards used carpet, $2 per
Six wall light fixtures, $12.50 ea. One
irn machine, $150. Four ceiling fans, $30 ea.
- Caver. Avenue Tbeatre, Dallas, Texas.
ojection equipment rebuilt and modernized.
F: iry trained mechanics on any make projection
ines
J
.and arc lamps. All work guaranteed.
Bi iert arc controls a speci.alty. Chicago Onema
Cf 1241 S. Wahash Ave
. Chicago 5. Ill

is ready!
After two years United Artists has received
and screened Howard Hawks' "Red River".
Soon United Artists' home office representatives
will be in the field to screen the
picture for you and tell
you of our plans.
We sincerely believe— and we feel you
will agree after seeing it-that^'Red River"
will take its place in motion picture history
beside such epics as "The Covered Wagon"
and ''Cimarron".