Boxoffice-January.08.1949

TOTAL NET PAID CIRCULATION OF THIS ISSUE EXCEEDS 23,000
rlouaii Lktwie, JndtuJ/uj
7L*
Modern
Theatre

M-G-M TIME IS
BIG TIME!
M-G-M brings
to your screen
3 of the Greatest
Theatrical
Properties in
years!
(See bow they
grow even greate
on next page!)
YOU'RE IN TH

*W»i F !
r ?
tB te ^cW n JwtfrPw 1^ °f ! 94 ? !
COMMAND DECISION
World Premiere in Los Angeles sets
#w*
new all-time record for first 2 days,
and San Diego for first 3 days!
The Coast press raves:
'Better as a motion picture than as a Broadway play. This is Gable's
meat. Proud of Walter Pidgeon. Have never seen Van Johnson as
good. — Louella Parsons in L A. Examiner
'King Gable is on his throne again."— Hedda Hopper in LA. Daily News Column
'The drama you've been waiting for."— t. A. Mirror
'A thrilling film. Gable's greatest performance."— L. A. Citizen News
'Rip-Snorting movie." — L A. Daily News
.'; i,
oS
S
A\,l, I, I, 1, |, 1
EDWARD, MY SON
E0W ARD,»^ON
GMUM* D
.rst of an
>tar cas 7°it
fr-a-*"" -
g Ones-
While it is still currently Broadway's No. 1 Stage Hit, the
M-G-M picture has been completed, previewed and hailed
as one of the great pictures, destined surely to be among
the Ten Best of 1949!
\.V, I, li I, li I, I, I- I. I, I, /, I, I, hi 'li I, I. I. / //
o o o o O O O O O I
ANNIE GET YOUR GUN
Approaching its 3rd year on Broadway and still packing
them in. The nation will watch eagerly for this great Irving
Berlin show when M-G-M brings it
to the screen!
IG TIME WJTH MOM .

"A WOW! 'DON JUAN 7 IS
HIGH-GROSSING SPHERE!
MONEY! ERROL FLYNN'S
ADVENTURE THRILLER. S
HOLLYWOOD "T BW^S
BEST FORM/^oR "STUNK
THE GRAND STYLE!"^
I
I
NJ
iNROBERT

tl IU l/LIMb INIU IHt
WHERE'S ONE FOR THE
STr&fc "IT'S A GREAT BIG
METHING TO REMEMBER
!5 IS ERROL FLYNN IN HIS
G! HERE IS ADVENTURE IN
W FROM WARNER BROS
ADVfe

13lh
THE NATIONAL FILM WEEKLY
PUBLISHED IN
NINE SECTIONAL EDITIONS
BEN SHLYEN
Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
IAMES M. JERAULD Editor
NATHAN COHEN Associate Editor
IESSE SHLYEN Managing Editor
IVAN SPEAR Western Editor
FLOYD M. MIX Equipment Editor
RAYMOND LEVY General Manager
Published Every Saturday by
ASSOCIATED PUBLICATIONS
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and Service. Telephone CHestnut 7777-78.
Other Publications; BOXOFFICE BAROMETEH,
published in November as a section BOXOFFICE;
THE MODERN THEATRE,
ol
published monthly as a
section ol BOXOFFICE.
ALBANY-21-23 Walter Ave., M. Berrigan.
ATLANTA-163 Walton, N. W.. P. H. Savin.
BIRMINGHAM-The News, Eddie Badger.
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BUFFALO— 157 Audubon Drive, Snyder, Jim Schroder
CHARLOTTE—216 W. 4th, Pauline Grillith
CINCINNATI— 1634 Central Parkway, Lillian Seltzer.
CLLVELAND-Elsie Loeb, Fairmount 0046.
DALLAS—1525 Holland, V. W. Crisp, J8-9760
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.
HARITORD— 109 Westborne, Allen Widem
H/.RRISBURG. PA.—Mechanicsburg, Lois Fegan.
INDIANAPOLIS-Rt. 8, Rox 770. Howard M. Rudeaux
MIAMI—66 S. Hibiscus Island. Mrs. Manton E Harwood.
2952 Merrick Rd., Elizabelh Sudlow
MIMPHIS—707 WA U Spring St., Null Adams, Tel. 48-5462
i^!!" , n K E- 529 N
-
,l ' '• R Gahagan, MA-0297:
M1NNEAPOL1S-29 Washington Ave. So. Les Rees
IAVEN—42 Church St.. Gertrude Lander
NEWARK. N. J.-207 Sumner. Sara Carleton
NEW ORLEANS—Frances Jackson. 218 So Liberty
8£VL H „OMA CITY-216 Terminal Bldg., Polly Trindle.
OMAHA—Omaha World-Herald Bldg., Lou Gerdes
PHILADELPHIA-4901 BỤRGH- Spruce St., J M. MakJer
86
EJI!S, Van "roam St., R. F. Klingensm.th.
PORTLAND. ORE.-David Kahn, 7722 N. Interstate.
RICHMOND—Grand Theatre, Sam Pulliam
ST. LOUIS—5149 Rosa, David Barrett, FL-3727
l A T E
ir, . ;A, I S,
CITY-Deseret News. Howard Pearson.
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SAN FRANCISCO — 25 Taylor St.. Gail Lipman
ORdway
v
3-4812.
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IN CANADA
CALGARY—The Albertan, Wm. Campbell.
MONTREAL—4330 Wilson Ave., N. D. G., Roy Car
michael. Walnut 5519.
ST. JOHN— 116 Prince Edward St., Wm. J. McNulty.
TORONTO—R. R. No. 1, York Mills, Milton Galbraith
VANCOUVER-411 Lyric Theatre Bldg., Jack Droy.
VICTORIA—938 Island Highway, Alec Merriman.
WINNIPEG—The Tribune, Ben Lepkin.
Member Audit Bureau of Circulations
Entered as Second Class matter at Post Office, Kansas City, Mo.
OXOFFICE
"THE MOVIES AND YOU"
»^/HAT title is, of course, addressed to the
public, being the name of the series of six short subjects made
by and for the industry and designed to fit importantly into
the public relations program for 'which there is such 'widelyadmitted
need. The series will be released at the rate of one
each two months starting March 1.
We saw one of these subjects, "This Theatre and You"
when it was screened before the assemblage of the Theatre
Owners of Oklahoma on December 7 at Oklahoma City. It
had an inspiring effect in its showing of the work each exhibitor
is called upon to perform in the service of his patrons—and
his community. In addition it brought cut the magnitude of
the screen through scene clippings from the various types of
productions which are afforded the public. It told—entertainingly—a
sort of behind-the-scenes story of Mr. Average Exhibitor
on Main Street in a way that should earn greater understanding
and appreciation from his patrons.
Discussion of the subject, and the series as a whole,
brought out suggestions that they should also be made available
for showing in schools, business and other institutions as
well as in the theatre. In this way, it was argued, non-patrons
would be reached and very favorable impressions made.
It occurred to this observer that the running off-screen
commentary for "This Theatre and You" was of exceptional
quality; that it did a job of selling that could well be adapted
by exhibitors for use as lobby displays, in programs, or as the
basis for editorials by their local newspapers. This may also
be true of the remainder of the series, the titles and release
dates of which are given elsewhere in this issue.
Needless to say, exhibitors should give as much playing
time as possible to these subjects. They afford the opportunity
—as well as answer to the need—for the industry to do a job
of selling itself via its own medium—the screen. The great
power of this "super salesman" has been widely demonstrated
in application to many worthy causes. Now let's put that
power to our own good use.
Sound Philosophy
In his farewell to the Senate in which he served the state
of Kansas for 30 years. Senator Arthur Capper remarked, "If
I had to sum up my philosophy of life in one sentence, I would
say: 'Live and let live—and lift a little more than your share.' "
Sectional Edition, $3.00 per year; National Edition, $7.50
Vol. 54 No. 10
JANUARY 8. 1949

In the course of reporting on the trials and tribulations of
this industry and on the disputes among its various segments,
we have, on occasion, urged application of the policy of "live
and let live." But Senator Capper has added considerably
through the phrase "and lift a little more than your share."
We can resolve our differences, solve our problems and
dissolve our troubles, if only we would:
"LIVE AND LET LIVE—AND LIFT A LITTLE MORE THAN
DUR SHARE."
jet's
ALL Git A-Goin'!
Well, Podner, it's shore a sight fer sore eyes t' see thet thar
leavy-paper advertisin' in this isher by Paramount thet promses
a golden year fer the fellers thet digs in fer them rich nugjets
they has to offer! Yep, they even tells ye when they're
jonna cum outen the vaults, givin' the exact dates. An' they
nelts these nuggets down an' analyzes wot's in 'em thet makes
em so durn good. Kinda nice t'know wot an' el' prospectin'
x-i-bi-ter kin count on fer eight months a-cummin'—an' more.
Makes a feller feel like there is a fewchur to this here
Dizness, after all. Kinda like el' times an' thet ol' fashin shownanship
we're all the time a-whoopin' an' hollerin' 'bout, but
loin' nothin' with. Yep, I feels like I was feelin' my oats agin.
Sot my curridge up, an' now I'm gonna stake out my claim an'
rit a hustle on, podner, fer thet turnstile at the front gate of
ny theayter's gonna be whizzin' aroun'!
*ight on the Button
Speaking of merchandising, as is inferentially done in the
oregoing, we noted in the financial columns of the papers a
ouple of days ago that the Proctor Eleciric Co. of Philadelphia,
announcing a sales campaign, said, "We deplore the thinkng
which has brought about layoffs in industry. What is
leeded is not retrenchment in production but a well-planned
ggressive merchandising campaign."
In the same vein, Butler Brothers of Chicago is telling its
lerchant customers that "an aggressive selling job is necesary
for good business in 1949." The firm is planning item-ofle-month
promotions, presenting retailors a complete packge,
including point-of-sale aids.
CLAy,
ITO of Southern Calif. Calls
For Study of Clearance
Fred Weller, executive secretary, says
clearance and selling methods for entire area
will be analyzed to determine what steps
needs be taken to provide equitable schedule.
Censorship Problem Faces
New Jersey Exhibitors
State's Allied unit to meet January 17 to
determine course of action in fighting threat
of censor body and broadening of powers to
tax admissions by local bodies.
Detroit Circuit Ad Campaign
To Build Patron Interest
Long-term institutional drive undertaken
by UDT consists of short comments on films
obtained from patrons, to be run thrice weekly
and without advertiser signatures.
Arnall and State Department
Meet on Foreign Needs
President of independent producers association
holds long conferences in an effort to
give independent product better slice of foreign
motion picture business.
Sound-on-Film Inventor
Retires From U of 111.
*
Professor Joseph Tykociner who, in 1922,
demonstrated first use of sound on films on
campus at Champaign, 111., retires after 27
years on faculty.
*
Allied Artists to Release
Five Features by May 1
Product includes "Strike It Rich" with Rod
Cameron "Bad Men of Tombstone"; "Bad
Boy," to be sponsored by Variety Clubs;
"When a Man's a Man" and "Stampede."
Illinois Exhibitors Facing
Avalanche of Legislation
Bills introduced in legislature include proposals
to license theatre brokers, create a
state censorship board, and sharing by towns
and cities
in the state two per cent tax.
Allied States Ass'n Calls
For Meeting of Its Board
-*
A. P. Myers, general counsel, announces
that directors will meet at Statler hotel in
Washington February 14, 15 to discuss proposals
authorized at recent national meeting.
*
To Ask Revival of Film Section
Of the Library of Congress
Dr. Verner Clapp, library executive, says
Congress will be asked to enact legislation
re-establishing motion picture division abolished
a year ago.

As Industry Faces 1949:
FILMS' TWO MAJOR PROBLEMS:
ENDING GLOOM, CUTTING COSTS
Neither Insurmountable;
Despite Cries of Woe,
Business Is Good
By JAMES M. JERAULD
NEW YORK — Two important problems
confront the industry at present—how to
make optimists out of pessimists and how
to make boxoffice pictures that cost less
than a million and a half. Neither is insurmountable
in spite of the prophets of
gloom.
The January pessimists in this business
are like the Dewey optimists in October:
they have oversold themselves on their
favorite topics after undergoing mass
hypnotism.
SEES STOCKS AS PROFITABLE
A well-known Wall Street analyst was the
first to use that "oversold" expression in
connection with pessimism some weeks ago.
He pointed out that the film outlook was so
basically sound that film stocks might turn
out to be very profitable 1949 investments.
Inflationary values have been squeezed out
of the production and distribution ends of
the industry so drastically that pictures on
hand can't fail to show a book profit and
the reduced overheads in studios and elsewhere
ought to make it possible to make new
pictures with a reasonable assurance of
profit.
Theatre men are yelling that business is
off 40 to 50 per cent in places, but the
picture returns and the tax figures don't show
it. Nobody has so far pointed to a theatre
bankruptcy in any one of the 48 states. Much
of this talk is intended to impress sales
forces when films are being bought.
Department of Commerce statisticians and
financial authorities agree there has been
some slight recession in general business,
but no signs of a serious letdown.
REACTION NOT VIOLENT
As 1948 drew to a close there were more
disturbing developments for the industry, but
the reaction was different. There was evidence
that film leaders had become hardened
to shocks. Word that South Africa was
thinking of cutting remittances in half merely
drew out an announcement that Francis
Harmon, MPAA vice-president, was flying
there for discussions. Then the trip was
postponed.
Producers have gradually cut their planning
to fit realities. Now, when change
comes, it is bound to be for the better. British
production is hanging on by its fingernails
trying to supply 45 per cent of British
theatre requirements. Instead of speeding
up, production is slowing down, even with
government assistance. The repercussions
from this will be felt throughout the British
empire. In the spring there will be conferences
between British and American film
men that may point the way to easing this
situation.
More cash from abroad and a continuance
Independents Log-Jam
On Financing Broken
HOLLYWOOD—A step toward cracking
the financial log jam with which many
independent film-makers currently are
confronted is being taken with the establishment
by N. Peter Rathvon, former
RKO Radio president, of an investmentmanagement
company which will function
in bringing capital and production
enterprises together.
The firm will be incorporated in California
as N. P. Rathvon and Co. Norman
Freeman, Rathvon's assistant at RKO
Radio, joins the organization as an executive
aide.
Rathvon disclosed in announcing his
new plans that he represents large
amounts of capital available for motion
picture investment, but emphasized his
organization will not go into production.
Capital will be made available to established
producers and to new independent
firms of "merit," Rathvon said, adding
that his new company will be "highly
exacting in its requirements."
of the present industrial activity here would
be a double shot' in the arm for American
film men. They might suddenly decide they
had been fencing with shadows. It has happened
before—notably at the start of World
War II when an economy panic set in because
of the prospective disappearance of
the foreign market. It did not disappear.
The specks on the horizon now are 44
legislatures and innumerable municipalities
which want more revenue.
NO TICKET TAX AID
Nobody expects the federal government to
do anything about ticket taxes this year, and
many observers in the industry will be satisfied
if the current rates are left alone, because
they fear a cut would be replaced by
state and city taxes in varying amounts.
In Canada where Odeon circuit has opened
20 new theatres in 14 months there is a
spirit of optimism and very little talk about
bad business.
Separating theatres from the major companies
is going to be a headache during
coming months, but some major company
executives will admit privately that it is not
an insuperable problem. In fact, one man
has confided that it may be that more income
from some of these houses will result.
Bank of America Views
Prospects Optimistically
HOLLYWOOD—Alarmist reports to the
contrary, banking circles view independent
production with optimism and stand
ready to supply needed financing to filmmakers
of established reputation.
Authority for this encouraging declaration
is Bernard Giannini, head of the motion
picture financing department of the
Bank of America, who predicted that
business for the independents during the
current year will be better than they enjoyed
in 1948 because their budgets are
being cut to tie in with general conditions.
Giannini disclosed that boxoffice returns
on "nearly all" the current independent
releases in which the Bank of
America is financially interested are satisfactory
and that "favorable" deals will
be set up with the producers thereof for
future
film ventures.
He paid particular tribute to the current
United Artists backlog of 13 pictures,
in most of which his bank is financially
interested, and declared he is "not worrying
at all about liquidating our money in
them." Giannini called for the distributors
of independent product to utilize
"aggressive salesmanship" in merchandising
such films "to insure producers their
rightful
profits."
This will follow, he pointed out, because
large groups of houses which have bought
pictures on a formula basis—a percentage
of the national gross—will now have to pay
rates comparable to competing houses in their
territories or lose the pictures. Thousands
of independent theatre operators want earlier
runs and are willing to pay for them.
BIG DECISION IN JUNE
Last year was frequently referred to as
"the year of decision." It was in many respects,
but the big decision in the antitrust
case that will reshape the distribution
and exhibition pattern will come during the
first six months of 1949 before the threejudge
court adjourns for the summer at the
end of June.
Whatever divorcement takes place may
stretch into next year or beyond, but the
last six months of 1949 probably will clear
up many unknown factors.
European nations and others are expected
to improve their export positions during the
year and this may help ease the problem
for getting remittances into this country.
When that happens independent producers
will find they can get financing and many
of those who are now crying the blues may
discover rosy tints on the underneath side.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8. 1949

; of
20% AMUSEMENT LEVY TO STAY
AS TRUMAN ASKS MORE TAXES
See Little Hope for a Cut
In Ticket Lug, Despite
Proposals in Hopper
WASHINGTON—Hope for an early lifting
of the federal ticket tax died Wednesday
when President
**"1
Truman, in his state
the union message,
asked Congress for an
J additional four billion
dollars in tax earnings.
Exhibitors may face
instead heavier taxes
on corporate earnings.
As a result of the
President's direct
warning that more tax
money must be forthcoming,
the industry
President Truman probably will be affected
by higher personal
income taxes. The message was pretty specific
about where the President thought the
money ought to come—from corporations and
upper level incomes.
LARGELY AS ANTICIPATED
The President's message was largely as
anticipated, with the film industry interested
especially in his discussions of taxes, labor
law and the strengthening of antitrust laws.
He called for repeal of the Taft-Hartley
law, but also asked for legislation to curb
jurisdictional strikes—such as have plagued
the west coast studios—and secondary boycotts
which, in many instances, have affected
exhibition interests.
The program presented to Congress also
had another controversial point which will
directly affect the industry, particularly exhibition.
That was the call for a 75-cent
minimum wage law. Such legislation would
hike operational costs for many exhibitors
using high school and college students for
ushers and other service jobs around theatres.
There was nothing specific in the President's
proposals on antitrust legislation. He
called for general strengthening of monopoly
laws, but spoke of such legislation only in
general terms. He told Congress that "if our
free enterprise economy is to be strong and
healthy, we must reinvigorate the forces of
competition. We must assure small business
the freedom and opportunity to grow and
prosper."
TAX BILLS INTRODUCED
Meanwhile bills to reduce the admission
tax rate to 10 per cent were offered as the
house met Monday for its first 1949 session.
All four were authored by men who had
offered similar proposals last year—Representatives
OToole of New York, Dingell of
Michigan, McDonough of California and
Colmer of Mississippi.
Also offered as the House met were bills
which would ban segregation of races, or discrimination
against people because of race
or color, in Washington theatres and other
public
establishments.
Year Late, Congress Takes
Johnston Advice to Heart
WASHINGTON—Congress, which a year
ago failed to heed a warning by Eric Johnston,
president of the Motion Picture Ass'n of
America, that a new code for congressional
investigations was essential "to make secure
the rights of citizens" will probably do something
about it this term.
When Johnston issued his appeal on October
26, 1947, urging Congress to take "positive
action to re-emphasize the rights of man,
the citizen," his was a lone voice.
This week, however, as Congress convened,
administration leaders met on Capitol hill and
called for a new code for investigations designed
to grant accused persons a hearing
and to curb headline-conscious congressmen.
Ostensibly, the proposal was not aimed at
any one committee, but there is no question
but that it results from the methods used
by the house un-American activities committee.
This is the committee which has been
a thorn in the side of the film industry, and
its critics have repeatedly accused it of failure
to give individuals an opportunity to answer
criticisms and with bidding for publicity.
The code was introduced in the house by
Representative McCormack, Massachusetts,
floor leader, and in the senate by Senator
Lucas, Illinois, the senate floor leader. "Some
committees use their privileges in a manner
which violates American standards of fair
play," he said. This is virtually the same
stand taken by Johnston a year ago.
The proposed code would permit an individual
who believes his reputation has been
damaged before a congressional committee
to Hi file a sworn statement in his behalf;
(2) testify personally; (3) call and examine
witnesses; (4) crossexamine for not more
than an hour, personally or by counsel, any
witness whose testimony he feels adversely
affected him.
The committee, under the code, would not
be permitted to issue any report until the
full membership had approved by a majority
vote.
When Johnston took up the cudgels for
civil rights, he received very little support
from congressional leaders. At that time, he
declared that while the "broad power to investigate
is among the great sentinels of the
public welfare," he was raising the question
of "evils inherent in the existing procedure
of investigating committees." He told Congress
that the procedure lacked uniformity,
that it had developed more or less haphazardly,
and that as the practice existed
"it can, and sometimes does, deny the individual
his full measure of citizenship rights."
Basically, the provisions in the proposed
code are those which the MPAA president
recommended in his statement on protection
of civil
rights.
Eagle Lion, Selznick in Agreement
For Distribution of SRO Product
NEW YORK—Eagle Lion and SRO have
reached a distribution agreement, it was announced
this week. Several provisions will
be put into effect almost immediately after
the pact has been signed. Two others are still,
being worked out and will be added when the
final terms are decided.
The definite provisions are:
1. Eagle Lion will handle SRO reissues in
all situations. These include pictures that
have been played off. Among these are
"Intermezzo" and "Rebecca."
2. Eagle Lion will do' the residual selling
of SRO pictures that have not been played
off in the subsequent run situations. These
are: "Duel in the Sun" and "The Paradine
Case."
3. The Eagle Lion sales staff will handle
SRO accounts in a number of areas where
SRO has dropped its salesmen. SRO division
and district managers will approve the contracts.
The pending provisions are:
1. SRO may turn over new releases, including
"Portrait of Jenny," to EL after it
has shown these pictures on test runs or In
roadshow engagements. This is still under
discussion.
2. Also under discussion is a plan for
underwriting production on a cooperative
financial
basis.
Meanwhile, it was reported SRO is dropping
most of its sales personnel in the 28
field offices maintained throughout the country.
The New York home office is not
affected.
SRO division and district managers in the
areas hit by the layoffs will represent the
company in all contract negotiations, according
to the announcement.
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949

"
60 Detroit Theatres Join
In Big Radio Giveaway
DETROIT—A combined cash and merchandise
giveaway with a full scale radio tieup
will be launched by a group of Detroit theatres
in cooperation with station WJLB January
15 or thereabouts, according to Sam Carver,
manager of the Grand, and vice-president
of the Michigan Independent Theatre Owners.
About 60 theatres are expected to participate
in a program in which $2,500 to S3 000 worth
of prizes will be given away weekly. The
opening week's first prize will be a Hudson
car, with probable second and third being
purses of $500 and S250.
This is the first actual move by an independent
theatre group to inaugurate the
much-heralded opposition to the big radio
giveaways which exhibitors in several sections
of the country have promised.
FOLLOWS A PREVIOUS PLAN
The plan follows the general outline of one
broached a year ago by Carver, but which
met opposition by the Federal Communications
commission and the Detroit police department.
The current plan has been tailored
to abide by FCC rules, and Eric Hay, manager
of station WJLB, this week said that
informal approval has been granted, but the
final official okay is awaited. The police
commissioner and other city officials are to
be invited to be judges.
The contest will be handled as a quiz show.
so that it is not to be construed as a lottery.
Each participating theatre is to give out ballots,
separately identified by color for each
week's contest, to each patron or any other
person requesting them. A trip to the boxoffice,
or other designated spot in the house,
will be necessary to secure the ballots, but
they will not be restricted to patrons, so that
the ballots will be an open contest, not tied
up with ticket sales. Entrants can get blanks
as often as they stop at a theatre.
Contest will be on such a theme as. "Why
I like movies." The entries, which are expected
to run 100.000 to 150.000 a week, will
be deposited at the theatres or mailed to the
radio station. Entries will be selected by the
panel of several judges, and read over the
air in a program to run 20 minutes or longer
as
needed.
ANNOUNCEMENTS OVER AIR
Announcement of winners will be made
over the air, and the winner will be required
to identify himself, either in a theatre or by
phone or in personal contact with the station,
during the show. All theatres will have
simultaneous reception of the radio show,
stopping their own shows for that period,
and time will be adequate for the winner to
get to his nearest participating house, if he
does not have a phone to call the station
and hears the announcement at home.
The cost to each house is expected to run
8 to 10 cents a seat each week. Names of
each participating theatre will be read off
over the air each week, and a ten-day advance
buildup will launch the show. Wednesday
evening is being tentatively selected.
Carver participated in one of the largest
giveaways in local theatre history, directed by
Henderson M. Richey. now an MGM execu-
Indiana ATO Plans
Statewide Prizes
INDIANAPOLIS—The Associated Theatre
Owners of Indiana will decide this
month whether to sponsor a big weekly
giveaway program—with a minimum of
150 theatres participating—as a means
of combating inroads of radio on showbusiness.
William A. Carroll, executive
secretary, said it will be an all-Hoosier
show for Indiana patrons, as it is felt a
tiein with a national show would not
carry as much local interest. Present
plans indicate that about $5,000 in cash
and merchandise will be given away
weekly.
tive, who then headed Allied Theatres of
Michigan. Carver recalls that about 90 theatres
participated in a similar show, then
handled by telephone to each theatre, not
radio, with weekly prizes of $5,000 to $7,000.
At that time, he said, there were block-long
lineups at practically all houses on the giveaway
nights.
Arbitration Plan Is
Unsolved Mystery
NEW YORK—The final form of the arbitration
plan to be submitted to U.S. Ass't
Att'y Gen. Robert L. Wright remained a
knotty problem for company counsel to solve.
Although an original "deadline" for agreement
had been set for December 30. the
discussions have continued with differences
of opinion unadjusted and further meetings
scheduled.
It is now said that because Wright has
been on vacation, there has been no need for
rushing the plan to him. Probabilities are
that no decision will be reached for at least
several days.
One of the counsel has raised a new objection.
He says that if the plan provides
for arbitration of an excessive bid, it might
as well arbitrate an unduly low bid.
Rural Theatregoers Vote
For Bergman, Crosby
NEW YORK—The sixth annual rural motion
picture poll of the magazine Country
Gentleman has voted Ingrid Bergman and
Bing Crosby the top favorites of theatre
patrons in rural communities. June Allyson
was second and Irene Dunne a close third
among the women stars. After Crosby came
Gregory Peck. Gary Cooper. Roy Rogers and
Peter Lawford in that order.
The films voted the ten best were: "The
Emperor Waltz," "I Remember Mama,"
"Easter Parade," "A Date With Judy." "Green
Grass of Wyoming." "Scudda-Hoo! Scudda-
Hayl" "The Babe Ruth Story." "State of
the Union," "Sitting Pretty" and "Johnny-
Belinda.
See Change of Tactics
In Decree Approach
NEW YORK—The theatre-owning defendants
and the Little Three have reversed their
tactics on proposed decrees. During the fall
of 1946 the theatre-owning companies presented
joint proposals to the three-judge
court, and the Little Three each filed separate
papers. This year the four remaining
theatre-owning companies will file separate
proposals and the Little Three will act together.
PROPOSALS DUE JAN. 31
The proposals are due January 31 when
they will be sent to the Department of Justice
for study. The department will have a
month in which to prepare its proposals for
consideration by the defendants.
Paramount. Warners, 20th Century-Fox
and Loew's have made some progress on their
decrees. Separate proposals will be presented
to fit their individual holdings. The decrees
will be based on evidence presented to the
court during November and December.
They will be pegged to the defendants'
offers to give up 796 theatres and arguments
advanced for the retention of 2,140 other
theatres.
The four theatre-owning companies will
accept the trade practice restrictions contained
in the decree of Dec. 31, 1946, not
eliminated by the Supreme Court. They may
ask for clarification of some of the rules
referring to "systems of clearance." A requirement
in competitive bidding was eliminated
by the Supreme Court, but Loew's and
20th-Fox have made considerable use of the
system and may ask for some form of bidding.
Paramount will oppose it. Warners
has been neutral, and may continue this
policy.
LITTLE 3 FOR MODIFICATION
The Little Three—Columbia, United Artists
and Universal-International —plan to ask for
modification of virtually every restriction
listed in the original decree. Their joint brief
will be an expanded version of the memorandum
presented to the court prior to the
December hearings.
It will- ask for the legalization of modified
price-fixing, roadshows, moveovers, extended
runs, specific clearance and franchises
to independents.
The Little Three are divided on arbitration.
Columbia is opposed to arbitration,
while UA and U-I may accept it under certain
conditions, and if the cost is reasonable.
The theatre-owning defendants and RKO
favor arbitration. A new system will be presented
to the Department of Justice before
the proposed decrees are completed.
Japanese Film Theatres
Now at Ail-Time High
NEW YORK—The Japanese Motion Picture
Federation has reported to the Motion
Picture Export Ass'n that film theatres in
the country now number 2,120, or 220 more
outlets than at any time during the prewar
years. As the war is estimated to have
taken a nationwide toll of more than 750
houses, this means that the Japanese have
repaired, reconstructed or rebuilt more than
970 houses during the three postwar years.
10 BOXOFFICE :: January 8. 1949

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OLD-TIME SHOWMANSHIP PACES
PARAMOUNT S PROGRAM FOR '49
12 Features Now Ready
For Exploitation, With
Dates Scheduled
By JAMES M. JERAULD
NEW YORK—On the 100th anniversary
of the gold rush to California Paramount
has decided to start another in the opposite
direction. Instead of funneling toward
California it will funnel from it with a
blaring slogan, "There's Gold in Those
!
Paramountains
To convince the exhibitors of America
that the company has the pictures, that
they are good pictures and that the public
will pay to see them, if they are sold with
a smashing barrage of showmanship. Paramount
has decided to lay an eight-month
schedule on the line.
RELEASES THROUGH AUGUST
Twelve features are being announced in
detail, complete with casts and accessories,
and the opening campaigns on some of them
are already under way. This will cover the
release schedule up to the middle of next
August.
In addition, there are listed in this issue
of BOXOFFICE seven more features now
in work or about ready to start which will
run the product total in sight into 1950.
This is the old, daring technique of many
years ago when it was customary to announce
an entire season's product with national
fanfare.
The decision to explode the 16-inch shells
at this time came after earnest consideration.
The reverberations are intended to blast away
some of the clouds of pessimism that have
been overcasting the film business horizon
for some time. So much has been heard about
backlogs and economy in recent months and
so little about film titles and stories that an
air of defeat has spread and some exhibitor
groups have begun saying openly that distributors
have been afraid to show the goods.
Paramount's answer is a new "gold rush"
and an invitation to "join up pronto."
Three of the 12 new pictures announced
are in Technicolor and one in Cinecolor.
The schedule will start January 14 and
run through August 15. with an undated
autumn release included. In February, March
and May there will be two films for each of
the three months.
STRONG LINEUP OF STARS
The stars and feature players include all
the strongest names of the company's roster
—Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Alan Ladd. Ray
Milland, Betty Hutton, Barry Fitzgerald, Loretta
Young, Paulette Goddard. Wanda
Hendrix. William Holden. Robert Cummings.
William Bendix. Macdonald Carey, Mona
Freeman. John Payne. Dorothy Lamour, John
Lund. Ralph Richardson. Lucille Ball, Olivia
de Havilland. Wendell Corey and Montgomery
Clift.
Strong combinations of writing, producing
and directing names are included. Among
At the Helm of the Company's Campaign
FRANK FREEMAN
Vice-President
BARNEY BALABAN
President. Paramount Pictures
HENRY GINSBERG ADOLPH ZUKOR
Vice-Pres.—Production Chief Chairman of the Board
te£\Isf.
CHARLES REAGAN
Vice-Pres—Distribution
them are: William Wyler, Cecil B. DeMille.
William Dieterle. John Farrow, Damon Runyon,
Mark Twain and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
The breakdown of the schedule into details
follows:
January 14
THE ACCUSED—Hal Wallis production directed
by William Dieterle and starring
Loretta Young and Robert Cummings. A suspense
drama about a woman transformed into
a terrified killer. Featured are: Wendell Corey.
Sam Jaffe and Douglas Dick
February 4
MY OWN TRUE LOVE—Starring Melvyn
Douglas and Phyllis Calvert, with Wanda
Hendrix. Philip Friend and Binnie Barnes
fea:ured Directed by Compton Bennett and
produced by Val Lewton. Adult drama about
a father and son in love with the same
woman
(Paramount is recommending this as a dual
attraction with "Dynamite," starring William
Gargan and Virginia Welles, which will be
released January 28.)
February 18
WHISPERING SMITH (Technicolor)—Starring
Alan Ladd, Robert Preston, Brenda Marshall
and Donald Crisp. Associate producer,
Mel Epstein; direc:or, Leslie Fenton. A sweeping
western action story by Frank Spearman
March 4
ALIAS NICK BEAL—Starring Ray Milland,
Thomas Mitchell and Audrey Totter, with
George Macready and Fred Clark featured
Chief
PAUL RAIBOURN
Vice-Pres.—Planning
Produced by Endre Boehm and directed by
John Farrow. Suspenseful drama.
March 25
STREETS OF LAREDO (Technicolor)—Featuring
William Holden. William Bendix, Macdonald
Carey and Mona Freeman. Produced
by Robert Fellows and directed by Leslie
Fenton. This is a sweeping spectacle of pioneer
western days with a colorful woman
sharing the hunted lives of three bandit buddies.
April 22
(Easter Release)
A CONNECTICUT YANKEE IN KING
ARTHUR'S COURT (Technicolor) — Starring
Bing Crosby, with Rhonda Fleming. William
Bendix. Sir Cedric Hardwicke, and with
Murvyn Vye. Virginia Field and Henry Wilcoxon
featured. Produced by Robert Fellows
and directed by Tay Garnett. Intended
as one of the outstanding features of the
year Crosby will introduce songs into the
Mark Twain story.
May 6
EL PASO (Cinecolor) — Featuring John
Payne, Gail Russell. Sterling Hayden, Gabby
Hayes and Dick Foran. Produced by William
Pine and William Thomas and directed by
Lewis R Foster. Big scale action spectacle.
May 27
BRIDE OF VENGEANCE-Starring Paulette
Goddard, John Lund and Macdonald Carey.
A Mitchell Leisen production produced by
(Continued on next page)
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949
25

'
PARAMOUNT BCAMPAIGN (Cont'd )
Release Time Table for First Eight Months of 1949
Whispering Smith MARCH 4 Alias Nick Beal
Richard Maibaum and directed by Leisen.
The story of a Lucretia Borgia type of woman
who marries a man she hates in order to
murder him. Done with elaborate backgrounds.
June 10
MANHANDLED — Starring Dorothy Lamour,
Sterling Hayden and Dan Duryea. A Pine-
Thomas production cirected by Lewis R. Foster.
It is a thriller story about a desperate
criminal who steals the details of a patient's
dream from a pyschoanalysist's files and pins
a headline murder on an innocent man.
July 8
SORROWFUL JONES—Starring Bob Hope
and Lucille Ball and introducing little Mary
Jane Saunders, with William Demarest, Bruce
Cabot and Thomas Gomez. Produced by Robert
L. Welch and directed by Sidney Lanfield.
Songs by Livingston and Evans The story is
by the late Damon Runyon.
August 5
THE GREAT GATSBY—Starring Alan Ladd.
with Betty Field, Macdonald Carey, Ruth
Hussey, Barry Sullivan, Howard DaSilva and
Shelley Winters. Produced by Richard Maibaum
and directed by Elliott Nugent. This is
a novel of well-to-do life in the roaring twenties
by F. Scott Fitzgerald which was produced
at that time by Herbert Brenon
Autumn
THE HEIRESS—Starring Olivia de Havilland,
Montgomery Clift and Ralph Richardson
and featuring Miriam Hopkins, Mona
Freeman, Vanessa Brown and Selena Royle
with Aaron Copland. Produced by William
Wyler, who did "The Best Years of Out
Lives." Regarded as one of the big pictures
of the year.
Last Hall of 1949
SAMSON AND DELILAH—Cecil B DeMille
production (Technicolor)—Starring Victor Mature
and Hedy Lamarr, George Sanders, Angela
Lansbury and a huge cast. It has been
in production for almost six months The
story is from the Book of Judges and it is
being produced on a spectacular scale.
Connecticut Yankee
King Arthur's Court
TOP O" THE MORNING—Starring Bing-
Crosby with Barry Fitzgerald and Ann Blyth.
Produced by Robert L. Welch and directed by
David Miller. Bing plays an American insurance
investigator who goes to a small Irish
village to solve a mysterious theft. It is
loaded with songs, laughs and suspense.
BITTER VICTORY—Hal Wallis production.
Starring Robert Cummings, Lizabeth Scott and
Diana Lynn. Produced by Robert Fellows and
directed by William Dieterle. From a Reader's
Digest story about two sisters in love with
the same man. He marries the one whose
selfish interests come first in her life.
CHICAGO DEADLINE — Co-starring Alan
Ladd and Donna Reed, with Margaret Field,
Harold Vermilyea and June Havoc featured.
Produced by Robert Fellows and directed
by Lewis Allen. A newspaper story in which
Ladd recreates a dead girl's character through
interviews with her associates and finds himself
falling in love with the ghost-like angel
he has created.
EASY DOES IT (Tentative title)—Starring
Bob Hope, with Rhonda Fleming, Roland Culver
and Roland Young featured. Produced by
Edward Beloin and directed by Alexander
Hall. Hope gets involved with an over
enthusiastic troupe of Boy Foresters returning
to America after a bicycle tour of Europe
and, as their bumbling leader, encounters a
card sharp, an impoverished nobleman and
others.
Hilarious.
RED, HOT AND BLUE—Starring Betty Hutton,
with Victor Mature. Produced by Robert
Fellows and directed by John Farrow. Miss
Hutton will have four Frank Loesser song hits.
She will have the role of a stagestruck youngster
who thinks the only way to make good
on Broadway is via newspaper headlines.
DEAR WIFE—Joan Caulfield, William
Holden, Edward Arnold, Billy DeWolfe and
Mona Freeman, the same cast that was featured
in "Dear Ruth." Produced by Richard
Maibaum and directed by Richard Haydn
Based on the successful stage comedy of two
years ago and scripted by Arthur Sheekman
Bnde of Vengeance JUNE 10 Sorrowful Jones The Great Gatsby
BOXOFTICE :: January 8. 1949

.
27
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^The only company to make Motion Picture Herald's list
of Boxoffice Champions EVERY Month in '48!
1948
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Television Zooms Toward
New Horizons for 7949
NEW YORK—Television zoomed toward
new horizons as the new year opened. There
were developments all along the various
fronts, with all the implications that this
would be the year when the role of video
as a partner or competitor of motion pictures
would be determined.
Major developments included:
1. H. M. Warner, president of Warner
Bros., confirmed long-circulated reports that
the company was ready to enter television
on a big scale and had asked for permission
to acquire station KLAC in Hollywood.
2. The east and midwest were linked by
coaxial cable, with Wayne Coy. FCC chairman,
participating in the inaugural ceremonies.
The network began operations January
11 and opened chain televising as far
west as St. Louis.
3. The threat of direct competition to
theatres through televising of major entertainment
projects on a network basis came
in an announcement that, beginning January
28, a weekly one-hour musical review will be
seen in 30 cities. Sponsored by the Admiral
Corp. of Chicago, radio and television manufacturer,
the program will cost $30,000 or
more a week and will be known as Friday
Night Frolic. It will go on the air at 8 p. m.
Fridays, over the combined NBC and DuMont
video
networks.
4. Philco Corp.. anticipating a surge in
the demand for home television equipment,
announced a S5.000.000 plant expansion program—to
permit an increase in the output
of television sets from 200,000 sets in 1948
to 600,000 sets in 1949.
5. Paramount picked up the telecast of
President Truman's address to Congress and
televised it on the screen of the Paramount
Theatre in New York.
The President's address was televised from
Washington and transferred to film and
shown on the screen at approximately 1:35
p. m. (EST'. The audience w^as composed of
bobby-soxers and others who had come to
see Bob Hope in "The Paleface" and a stage
show headed by Benny Goodman's band.
There had been no previous announcement
of the video presentation. Applause was brief
and scattered and the audience exhibited
some restlessness during the speech of approximately
35 minutes.
In Hollywood, Warner said that after surveying
technical and talent facilities both
here and in New York, Hollywood was selected
as the headquarters for the company's
television operations. The film colony, he
declared, "is the logical place." Under his
supervision special crews will be trained to
produce motion pictures geared exclusively
for video projection over KLAC-TV, with the
Warner plans also to include the telecasting
of special events to local houses in the Warner
theatre chain. These units include the
Downtown, Hollywood and Beverly theatres
and might possibly also encompass the Warner
Theatre in Huntington Park.
It is Warner's expressed belief that video
will not interfere with either theatre operations
or the making of regular entertainment
films, since "there will be a good market
for both." Television will be most important,
he declared, "in the production of
educational films and other specialties . . .
Television will find its way in motion pictures
as naturally as did sound."
Television also found itself involved in the
Ascap picture. It was announced that representatives
of the copyright society and television
stations will be'gin negotiations in mid-
January on fee schedules. Ascap received
the green light for the negotiations recently
when 80 per cent of its publisher and writer
members assigned their video rights to the
society. The telecasters will continue to receive
Ascap licenses gratis until the end of
February, pending an agreement.
MGM to Hold National Sales Confab
During February 6-77 in Hollywood
HOLLYWOOD—Top homeoffice, distribution
and production executives as well as exchange
personnel will participate in MGM's
upcoming national sales convention, slated to
be held at the studio February 6 through February
11. It is the first national sales meeting
to be held by the company in the film
capital for 12 years.
Slogan for the session and for the year's
activities will be "Twenty-Five Years of Motion
Picture Leadership," paying tribute to
Metro's first quarter-century as a production-distribution
organization.
Nicholas M. Schenck, president of Loew's.
Inc., and William F. Rodgers, vice-president
in charge of sales, will be among the eastern
officials attending the conclave. Other top
sales executives, district managers and
branch managers also will attend.
All available new product will be screened
and the visitors will huddle with Louis B.
Mayer, Dore Schary and other studio officials
concerning sales policies to be established for
the
season.
A special subtitle will be inserted into the
main title of all MGM releases for the year,
bearing the caption: "An MGM Silver Anniversary
Picture."
"Some of the Best," a two-reeler compiled
for exhibition at the company's 1944 convention,
is being brought up to date by Frank
Whitbeck, studio advertising chief, and will
be screened at the upcoming meeting. The
short contains clips from outstanding films
produced by MGM since its formation in
1924. including such vehicles as "Ben Hur"
and "Grand Hotel." as well as clips from
later releases.
British Magistrates Find:
Juvenile Delinquency
Not Caused by Films
LONDON—Motion pictures were absolved
of contributing toward juvenile
delinquency in the annual report of the
Magistrates Ass'n of Great Britain. This
association, with a membership of 6,693
jurists, had been asked by the British
home office to study and report on children
and juvenile delinquency.
Considering this matter "from the point
of view of relation between attendance
at the cinema and juvenile delinquency,"
the British judges' findings highlighted
the
following:
"1. There is general agreement among
psychologists that the cinema is seldom,
if ever, a cause of juvenile delinquency.
CAUSES ARE DEEPER
"2. Antisocial conduct arises from
deeper causes than the imitation of
things done on the screen.
"3. When the cinema is blamed for a
child going wrong, it will generally be
found that such a child is one who would
go wrong in any case.
"4. There is no evidence from any
other country that there is a relationship
between the cinema and juvenile delinquency.
"5. The cinema keeps boys out of mischief,
men out of public houses and girls
from the streets.
"6. The young are not more wicked
than they were before cinemas, but cinemas
are a convenient scapegoat like the
penny dreadful in its day.
"7. Investigations have never found
any correlation between delinquency and
attending the cinema.
"8. Emotional unhappiness is the most
potent cause of juvenile delinquency. The
unhappy child is most likely to seek forgetfulness
in the unreal world of the
cinema.
"9. Both delinquency and over-devotion
to the cinema are an exaggerted craving
for excitement, and due to lack of encouragement
to take up more creative
hobbies.
FILMS CONDEMN CRIME
"10. Films all possess one common feature:
the criminal is brought low; virtue
exalted.
"11. If the cinema is copied, it is method
rather than the criminal's aim or
motive.
"12. Cinema clubs have come to stay.
Evidence shows that they vary very much
from place to place. They can be an influence
for good, but as they are a commercial
proposition it is important that
the situation should be watched with
care."
The Motion Picture Ass'n of America
is much interested in the report and is
publicizing the findings in the United
States.
30

—
TKw and Sv&tt&
More Pol] Studies
JJICKING the polls around has become
a popular pastime. Latest to make a
study of the recent election fiasco is a
group of educators, among whom is Isador
Lubin of the American Statistical Ass'n
and Confidential Reports. Inc. This report
says the poll-takers used "bad judgment."
The polls failed to detect changes of sentiment,
they did not make the right allotment
for "over-all error," they did not interview
persons with grammar school educations,
as well as college training, etc.
An angle of poll-taking that the learned
professors overlooked is the personalities
of the men and women who actually ask
the questions. An elderly, cultured man
who might fit well in a club or a civic organization
can't w^alk into a bar where
opinions can be gathered merely by listening.
The minute he pulls out a paper and
starts writing the conversation stops.
Youngsters in juke parlors and soda
fountains know more about films than any
other group, but they talk freely only to
other youngsters.
Jim Farley never took a poll, but he predicted
elections with astonishing accuracy.
He traveled everywhere, listened to random
comments, and talked with men in
every walk of life who were accustomed to
making informal verbal reports.
It wasn't scientific. There were no percentage
tables, no estimates of margin of
error, no classifications of responses by
age or salary groups. It was just plain
old-fashioned common sense of the kind
applied by newspaper reporters before their
employers became hypnotized by expert
commentators, who. in turn, were hypnotized
by polls.
We would like to know how many companies
are making surveys just now of the
probable audience acceptance of picture
titles.
Arbitration
fJOW to get an arbitration system that
will improve exhibitor relations and cut
down litigation is one of the current industry
problems. It has been up for discussion
since the Supreme Court decree in
the antitrust case, and the three-judge
court is reported to be desirous of having
a plan submitted that will meet general
approval. Progress has been retarded by
objections.
Columbia is actively opposed, United
Artists is said to be something less than
lukewarm, and the smaller companies are
shying away from anything that looks like
expense.
It is obvious that no plan can be devised
which will meet all objections in
advance, but some of the industry leaders
hope those in favor of the plan already
drawn up will put it into effect, on the
theory that if it becomes a demonstrated
success it will spread.
Both of the big exhibitor organizations
—TOA and Allied—are waiting to see what
the Department of Justice and the court
will approve.
-By JAMES M. JERAULD
Protective Move
PARAMOUNT has appealed to the threejudge
antitrust court to protect it against
forced sales of theatres to partners.
Leonard Goldenson, theatre operations
head, has filed a memorandum in which
he points out that some of the partnership
agreements made when Paramount
was in bankruptcy were more advantageous
to the partners than to the company, especially
in those paragraphs which outline
the method for splitting the partnerships.
The proposals submitted to the court
would, if incorporated in a decree, nullify
the present contract stipulations for divorcement
and would enable Paramount to
offer its share of any regional unit to another
purchaser in case of failure to agree
on the price.
Some gnashing of teeth and surprising
changes in the theatre map might develop
if
a regional showdown should take place.
Interesting Suggestion
gELOW are two paragraphs taken from
a bulletin of Leo P. Wolcott to members
of Iowa-Nebraska Allied which might
prove useful to exhibitors everywhere.
They follow:
"If this industry and Monogram Pictures
had been as smart as we like to think we
are, we all could have made a barrel of
money for a most worthy cause, and ourselves—and
a universe of goodwill for all
of us and the industry by scheduling 'Babe
Ruth Story' as a cancer benefit show in
every theatre in the country. Our president,
Al Myrick, has just finished running
it in his Lake Park (Iowa) theatre
as a cancer benefit, sponsored by the Girl
Scouts and others, and the response and
results were terrific!
"In view of this I suggest to the many
independent exhibitors who have not yet
run 'Babe Ruth Story' that you also run it
as a cancer benefit show and build yourself
and your theatre a lot of real goodwill."
Television Jitters
PHILADELPHIA tavern owners with television
receivers have the jitters and
theatremen are looking on with obvious
traces of amusement as a new tax fight
gets under way. During the two national
conventions at Philadelphia the tavern
owners, and some of the hotels, went wild
over television and advertised it extensively.
Theatre men admitted it was hot competition.
The State Liquor Control Commission
ruled that taverns with television would
have to have amusement licenses. The city
receiver of taxes immediately went into
action and decided that on January 1 he
would start collecting five per cent of the
taverns' grosses.
The tavern owners howled and their association
is now demanding that the ordinance
be changed so it will provide specific
exemption for taverns. The results
will be watched by other Pennsylvania
municipalities.
Natl Theatres Plans
'Dimes 7
Collections
NEW YORK—For the first time in three
years March of Dimes audience collections
will be made in a major circuit when the
annual theatre campaign gets under way
month.
this
Charles Skouras, president of National
Theatres, has notified Basil O'Connor that
the collections will be made in 18 states "as
Charles Skouras Heft) shakes the hand
of Basil O'Connor, pledging his circnit's
cooperation for the March of Dimes
audience collections.
a public service in view of the severity of
the 1948 epidemic—the worst since 1916."
Skouras notified O'Connor, who is president
of the National Foundation for Infantile
Paralysis, that the collections would
be made during the week of January 24-31.
The national campaign will start January 14
and continue for the rest of the month.
Many independent theatres and small circuits
have taken audience collections during
the last three years, but during that time
the major circuits have confined their support
to use of trailers, lobby displays, and,
in many instances lobby collections.
"The National Foundation has done a
splendid job in coping with this year's disastrous
epidemic," Skouras said, "and has
exhausted all its funds in caring for those
in need. In this one year alone more than
27,000 children and adults have been stricken
with this disease.
"When the need was there, the foundation
was there and threw all its resources
funds, equipment, trained personnel—into
the struggle. It's up to us, therefore, to help
in every way that is humanly possible to
give the people in all communities the opportunity
to contribute to this great fight,
as I am sure they want to do."
UN Endorses 'Last Stop'
NEW YORK—"The Last Stop," which plays
in French, German, Polish and Russian, has
been endorsed for its moral and artistic
values by the United Nations Film board,
according to Jean Benoit-Levy, executive director.
It is distributed by the Times Film
Corp., will be the next attraction at the
World Theatre here and is the first film to
be shown in the U.S. with the endorsement
of the UN. Wanda Jakubowska produced and
directed.
32 BOXOFTICE

In the first three openings since its sensational current
World Premiere engagement in New York, "Joan of
Arc" strides forth as the mightiest of all boxoffice attractions!
In LOS ANGELES, standout crowds are straining
the Palace (continuous performances) and the Beverly
(reserved seats)! In NEW ORLEANS, a first week record
that had stood for 27 years at the Orpheum was
smashed to bits! In PHILADELPHIA, the Karlton is doing
business that wasn't even believed possible! In NEW
YORK, the terrific record-making pace continues at the
Victoria (9th week, continuous performances) and at
the Fulton (4th week, reserved seats)!
JoanofArc ingmdBergman
A VICTOR FLEMING PRODUCTION . COLOR BY TECHNICOLOR . cast of thousands
with JOSE FERRER • FRANCIS L SULLIVAN • J. CARROL NAISH WARD BOND • SHEPPERD STRUDWICK • HURO HATFIELD
CENE LOCKHART • JOHN EMERY • GEORGE COULOURIS • JOHN IRELAND and CECIL KELLAWAY • based upon the stage play 'Joan of
Lorraine - by MAXWELL ANDERSON • wee* ploy by MAXWELL ANDEflSON and ANDIEW SOLT . on direction by «ICHA«D DAY
director of ptiotoarophy JOSEPH VALcNTWE, A.S.C
Produced by WALTER WANGER • Directed by VICTOR FLEMING
protected by SIEIKA f ICTUSES, be. . ra'eoied by *KO RADIO PICTUKS

Two Methods Are in
For Paying Ascap Fees
NEW YORK—Pending settlement of the
involved litigation Ascap two forms of payment
are being used for performing rights
to film-recorded music.
Some individual members of Ascap are collecting
direct from film producers through
agents and many exhibitors are continuing
to pay under the old system based on seating
capacities.
This has been going on since November
when Learned Hand, chief justice of the U.S.
circuit court of appeals, authorized an appeal
Dy Ascap from Judge Vincent Leibell's
decision in the so-called ITOA case. Hand's
appeal ruling automatically stayed execution
of Judge Leibell's decree pending an appeal
decision, except insofar as it applied to the
exhibitor plaintiffs in the case.
Collections made from exhibitors are being
put into a special Ascap fund, so that repayment
can be made in case the appeal
court upholds Judge Leibell's ruling. No effort
will be made to collect from exhibitors
who have suspended payments until a final
court decision has been handed down.
In the meantime there have been conferences
between former Judge Robert P.
Patterson, Ascap attorney, and Attorney
General Tom Clark on a modification of the
1941 consent decree under which Ascap has
been operating. How this would affect current
is it litigation not clear, but might result
in withdrawal of a suit filed in U.S.
district court by Abner Greenberg, Ascap
Republic Completes Third
Of New Schedule of 48
HOLLYWOOD—Republic slipped into the
new year with almost one-third of its 1948-49
program of 48 pictures completed and has 13
more slated to go into work during 1949's
first quarter. The remaining 21 are in active
stages of preparation.
In the backlog are "Wake of the Red
Witch," "The Last Bandit," "Montana Belle,"
"Hellfire," "The Par Frontier," "Homicide for
Three," "Rose of the Yukon." "Daughter of
the Jungle." "Hideout." "Duke of Chicago,"
"Sundown in Santa Fe," "Renegades of
Sonora." "Sheriff of Wichita" and "Federal
Agents vs. Underworld, Inc."
Ready to go into work during the first
three months of the year are "Eagles in
Exile." an untitled entry to be produced and
directed by John H. Auer, two Roy Rogers
starrers, three sagebrushers starring Allan
"Rocky" Lane, a trio of westerns toplining
Monte Hale, a serial—"Ghost of Zorro"—and
two Sidney Picker productions, "Streets of
San Francisco" and "Flaming Fury."
Conciliation in New Haven
NEW HAVEN—TOA has set up a conciliation
committee for the New Haven exchange
area, covering Connecticut. The two
members of the committee chosen are Maurice
Bailey, theatre operator in New Haven
and Hamden, a member of Allied States,
and George H. Wilkinson Jr. of Wallingford,
a TOA member. A list of alternate members
will be announced shortly.
Use
member, who also is a lawyer. He has asked
the court to order a change in the method
of electing the Ascap board. Greenberg seeks
an election system that will give each member
one vote, rather than the present involved
multiple vote system. He also wants
the court to set up a nominating system
that will enable five per cent of the members
to a put candidate in nomination by
petition.
At present author members have one vote
for each $20 received in royalties during the
previous year, and each publisher member
has one vote for each $500 in royalties.
Ascap has 1,946 writer members and 330
publisher members, and each group has six
members on the board. This system favors
large publishers, especially the music publishing
subsidiaries of film producers, Greenberg
contends. He also insists that policies established
by boards not responsible to all the
members resulted in the Leibell and Nordbye
decisions against Ascap.
Oscar Hammerstein II, vice-president of
Ascap, objects to Greenberg's contentions on
the ground that corporations usually elect
their boards in accord with the holdings of
stockholders. He also opposes Greenberg's
ambition to become a publisher-member, because
he devotes most of his time to the law.
This dispute has been referred by U.S.
District Judge Conger to Judge Henry W.
Goddard, who signed the 1941 Ascap decree.
No hearing date has been set.
Negotiations Suspended
For Hughes Tool Sale
NEW YORK—Negotiations for sale of the
Hughes Tool Co. by Howard Hughes are off
for the time being and there is some doubt
as to whether or not they will be resumed
on a new basis.
Hughes has sent a letter to employes of
the company in which he made known that
he had been approached by Dillon, Read
& Co., Inc., early last year. After some
months of negotiation it was suggested by
the banking firm that a new corporation
be formed with Dillon, Read controlling 45
per cent, with present Hughes executives
controlling 45 per cent and the remaining
10 per cent by a group of Houston businessmen.
Cuts in Seasoning Oils
Announced by Blevins
NASHVILLE—One of the first factors
pointing to lower costs of popping corn in
1949 was an announcement this week by the
Blevins Popcorn Co. of drastic reductions in
the prices of seasoning oils. A cut of almost
20 in liquid oil per cent prices and similar
reductions in cocoanut oil were announced.
These reductions, combined with the alltime
high popping volume of this year's popcorn
crop, point to the highest profit potentials
in popcorn in the history of the
company, according to officials of the company.
Eddie Aaron Given
New 20th-Fox Post
NEW YORK—Edwin (Eddie) W. Aaron,
who resigned several weeks ago as assistant
general sales manager
^""•nT ~ I Ior MGM, has been
f^
^V named as circuit sales
M \ manager for 20th Cen-
I 1 tury-Fox by Andy W.
J-. j^^ JBA Smith jr.. general sales
" ^T ^^| manager. He will take
fc X^JJJ over his new job
Jljl^P^HB January 10.
^4^^ y Aaron had been as-
^^ jB I MGM
1^ | since 1940. His industry
experience dates
Edwin W. Aaron back 31 years. He is
widely known in the industry. He started in
the auditing department of MGM and installed
an auditing department in all of the
company's exchanges.
Prior to joining MGM he was cashier for
the E. M. Saunders exchange, which was
absorbed by MGM.
Gamble Buy Into Standard
Is Formally Announced
MILWAUKEE—L. F. Gran, general manager
of Standard Theatres Management
Corp., has made a formal announcement of
the completion of the deal whereby Ted R.
Gamble, president of Gamble Enterprises,
acquired for that company "a substantial
stock interest in Standard Theatres by the
purchase of stock from several former stockholders."
The acquisition had been under discussion
for several months. Gran will continue in
charge of operation.
All of the Standard Theatres group of 29
theatres is now held by the Coston family,
represented by Col. Robert Haynes, Gamble
Enterprises and L. F. Gran.
At the same time, it was announced that
Gamble had sold his Oregon chain of ten
theatre*, ind an eleventh which is under
construction. The circuit went to Ted Jones,
west coast circuit operator who has been
building an extensive group of theatres in
California, Arizona and Oregon. The sale
price was not announced.
The deal is being split up by Jones, Jones
Enterprises and the Western Amusement Co.,
Inc., of which he ^ president. The new
owner will take over his properties on February
12. By acquiring the Gamble theatres,
Jones and his associated companies become
the largest independent circuit in Oregon.
RKO Will Add Two Series
Of Shorts During 1949
NEW YORK—RKO will introduce two new
short subject series during 1949, according
to Harry J. Michalson. short subject sales
manager.
The first will be a one-reeler group consisting
of 13 subjects under the general heading
of "Screenliners." They will include "Jan
August and His Piano Magic," "Block Party"
and "It Pays to Be Ignorant."
The second will be a two-reeler series titled,
"The Newlyweds." George Bilson will produce
the films. Four have already been
scheduled.
34 BOXOFFICE :: January 1949

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HELD OVER!
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JOY THEATRE
NEW ORLEANS, la.
HELD OVER!
R.K.O. GRAND
CHICAGO, III.
HELD OVER!
Interstate's
EMPIRE
SAN ANTONIO, Tex.
HELD~OVER!
Interstate's
KIRBY
HOUSTON, Tex.
LOEW'S-POLI
BIJOU
NEW HAVEN, Conn.
Set for Big Biz
— IN —
11*
San Francisco, Col.
PALACE—Toledo, Ohio
ECKEL— Syracuse, N. Y.
RIVOLI— Peterson, N. J.
CAPITOL— Passaic, N. J.
RIALTO—New York City
HOLLYWOOD
City, la.
GARDEN—Charleston, S. C.
Barton
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Bu
Virginia GREY -Philip REED
MacLANE- Richard DENNING
Directed By JACK BERNHARD
Produced By ALBERT JAY COHEN
THOUSANDS
of
EXHIBITORS
ARE
FLOCKING
to
FILM CLASSICS
FOR
PLAYDATES!
HOW ABOUT YOU?
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'P^E nffftfu 'IteTToF AN UNKNOWN WORLD INVADE THE WORLD OF TODAY!
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. . Columbia
. . "Operation
. . Warners'
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. . MGM
. . Universal-International
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. . William
^o%WS^By
Only Three Literary Sales
Start Off the New Year
A downward curve was described by the
story market in the opening days of the new
year, only three sales having been recorded.
To Allied Artists went "My First Husband,"
by Walter Enderly. which is planned as a
co-starring vehicle for Gale Storm and Rod
Cameron. It's listed as a sophisticated drawing
room comedy . acquired
"The Big Gun." a western by William Bowers,
and assigned the production chores on
it to Alex Gottlieb . Malaya,"
an original by Manchester Boddy, publisher
of a Los Angeles newspaper, was purchased
from RKO by MGM and is being prepared
for
forthcoming production from the screenplay
by Frank Fenton. The acquisition is the
second of its kind to be effected since Dore
Schary moved from RKO to MGM as production
chief. Some time ago Schary arranged
for the purchase of "Battleground"
from RKO. where it had been in preparation
while he was head man on that lot.
Eagle Lion Studio Hosts
Circuit Heads for Tulsa'
Something a bit out of the ordinary in
the pre-selling of new film to exhibitor
a
customers was undertaken by Eagle Lion
when that studio played host to seven top
theatre circuit heads at a Hollywood screening
of the Walter Wanger production,
"Tulsa." In marked contrast to the customary
policy of screening the picture in
the areas where intensive merchandising is
being aimed for. the exhibitor leaders were
brought here to view the Technicolor opus
and to discuss plans for its world premiere
'Ten Greatest War Films'
Listed
by Coast Club
At hand is that time 01 the year when
the proverbial drop of the chapeau is the
signal for a veritable deluge of "best
picture" lists—from a widespread array
of sources and covering virtually every
conceivable type of celluloid entertainment.
Latest to jump aboard the pollsters'
bandwagon is the Army and Navy club
of Los Angeles—said to be the second
largest of its kind, second in size only
to that of Washington, D. C—which has
crawled out on the limb by naming the
"ten greatest war films" of all time and
handing its annual award for 1948 to
MGM's "Command Decision."
The other nine "best," according to
the organization, run the gamut from
"Wings" and "All Quiet on the Western
Front" to "What Price Glory," "The Big
Parade," "A Farewell to Arms," "Hell's
Angels." "Destination Tokyo," "They
Were Expendable" and "A Walk in the
Sun." Given an honorable mention was
"Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo."
IVAN SPEAR
In Tulsa in March, after which it is set for
day-date showings throughout the south and
southwest in a minimum of 300 theatres.
Making the junket to the film capital were
Raymond Willie and Ray Jones of Interstate;
Sam Landrum of the Jefferson
Amusement Co.; John Rowley of the Robb
and Rowley chain; Robert Davis and Clifford
White, Griffith Amusement Co., and
J. C. Hunter of Tulsa.
Collegiate Life Production
Scheduled by Warners
Films about the gay collegiate days—once
a Hollywood staple—apparently are due for
a new lease on life, with Warners the latest
studio to announce plans for production of
such a subject. This one is called "We're
Working Our Way Through College" (something
for the marquee-dressers to worry
about, incidentally) and will be produced by
Lou Edelman from his own original story
idea.
Already before the cameras at Universal-
International is "Yes, Sir, That's My Baby,"
a college football comedy starring Donald
O'Connor, while 20th Century-Fox has in
preparation "Mr. Belvedere Goes to College,"
to topline Clifton Webb, and recently completed
"Mother Was a Freshman," with Loretta
Young in the title role.
Stephen Ames Leaves RKO;
To Produce on Broadway
Winding up a five-year association with
the company, Stephen Ames completed his
productional contract at RKO and has
headed for New York to take a whirl at stage
production. He has set Joseph Losey. RKO
megger on leave of absence from the studio,
to direct the venture, which will star Norman
Corwin . current productional
doldrums found Phil Friedman, head
of the casting department, going on leave
of absence until picture-making activity resumes.
Two Veteran WB Producers
Assigned to Two Films
Although production is at a virtual standstill
on the Warner lot at the moment, hints
that cameras will begin to grind again shortly
were strengthened through the assignment
of two more properties to a pair of the company's
veteran producers. Henry Blanke was
handed the supervisory chore on "Lightning
Strikes Twice," a novel by Margaret Echard,
while to William Jacobs went "The Candy
Kid," a melodrama by Michael MacDougall.
Blanke is also at work on two other upcoming
productions, while Jacobs has a total
of six on his agenda . Goldwyn
ticketed F. Hugh Herbert to develop an
original, "Commencement," which will team
Farley Granger and Joan Evans in a story
about the graduation exercises in a typical
smalltown high school . set Ronald
Millar. English novelist, to develop an untitled
screenplay as a sequel to "Mrs.
Miniver."
Michael Curtiz Back
On Warners Staff
Almost simultaneously with the advent
of 1949 came the disclosure that
another topflight motion picture creator
had hauled down his own independent
production shingle and rejoined the ranks
of salaried personalities under contract
to a major studio.
Ending a two-year venture as his own
boss was Producer-Director Michael Curtiz,
who during that time filmed four
pictures for release through Warners. He
has now rejoined that company—to which
he had been under contract as a director
from 1926 to 1946—with a new sevenyear
ticket.
The Curtiz action is similar to that
taken in the recent past by other established
film artisans who, after venturing
into production on their own, jumped
back into studio berths. Among such were
Leo McCarey, producer-director who
pigeonholed his Rainbow Productions to
go to Paramount, and the personnel of
Liberty Films—Frank Capra, Sam Briskin,
George Stevens and William Wyler,
who—like McCarey—also are in the
Paramount fold.
During his tenure as an independent,
Curtiz turned out "The Unsuspected"
and "Romance on the High Seas," already
released, and "My Dream Is Yours"
and "Flamingo Road," on which Warners
have not yet set release dates. While
he was his own boss, Curtiz built up a
contract list including Doris Day, James
Mitchell, Fred Clark and David Brian,
all of whom become Warner contract
personalities.
William Dieterle Forms
Pandora Films Corp.
In addition to his directorial contract with
Hal Wallis Productions and a commitment
to meg a film in Paris this spring, William
Dieterle is expanding his activities to include
independent production. The veteran
picture pilot has organized the Pandora Films
Corp. with himself, his wife, Mrs. Charlotte
Dieterle, and Edyth Ziegler as directors. Apparently
this independent venture is still in
the formulative stage, however, since Dieterle
has disclosed no concrete plans as to
the pictures he intends to make under the
Pandora label.
MGM Signs Top Supporters
For Clark Gable Feature
MGM is lining up a top supporting cast
for its new Clark Gable opus, "Any Number
Can Play." having set Lewis Stone. Wendell
Corey, Leon Ames and Scotty Beckett
for the picture the roster of the
new Hal Wallis production, "Rope of Sand,"
at Paramount were Claude Rains, Peter Lorre
and Corirme Calvet .
Bendix goes
.
into RKO's "The Big Steal" Alexander
Knox was signed by Columbia for "Tokyo
Joe" .
set Marta
Toren for the femme lead in "Cripple Creek."
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949

Greater Stability Seen
In Canadian Mart
TORONTO—The Canadian film market, as
compared with the U.S., demonstrated
greater stability during 1948, according to
J. Earl Lawson, president of the J. Arthur
Rank Organization of Canada, Ltd., and
Canada 1,
Ltd.
Previously, it has unvaringly been assumed
that, allowing only for a time lag.
conditions in the U.S. duplicated themselves
in Canada and that boxoffice trends, audience
tastes and buying habits were entirely
similar, Lawson said. While he believes that
it Is too soon to tell whether this difference
was a temporary condition due to the special
circumstances of the year, the evidence
is "that the long-term upward trend in consumer
expenditures for motion picture entertainment
still continues."
The Canadian situation has been materially
helped by the fact that boxoffice prices
—the cost of film entertainment to the
public—had not increased materially as they
had elsewhere nor as had the costs of other
goods and services regularly in demand by
the average Canadian family. The market
in the U.S., on the other hand, was subject
during 1948 to a variety of disturbances such
as the government's "taking steps to regulate
the distribution or wholesaling of films to
theatre operators." Lawson said. So far, in
Canada, the film industry has been able to
set its own film-distribution policies without
government intervention.
New theatre construction in Canada was
at its peak in 1948, with the Odeon Toronto,
which opened in September, the "most important
single addition to the Dominion's
theatre facilities in many years," Lawson
said.
MPAA-Canadian Pact
Proving a Success
NEW YORK—The agreement between
Motion Picture Ass'n of America and
the
Canadian officials whereby U.S. films boost
Canada's tourist trade to help relieve the
dollar shortage there is working out satisfactorily
after a year's trial, the MPAA reports.
Canadian officials have noted an increased
flow of tourists to their country.
The deal was made at a time when there
was a chance that Canada might follow
Great Britain's example in restricting dollar
MPAA-Trading Firm Deal
Unblocks U. S. Dollars
NEW YORK—Blocked film funds in foreign
countries totaling perhaps $2,000,000
have been released to U.S. distributors
through a deal originated by Gerald Mayer
of the Motion Picture Ass'n of America
and made with the World Commerce Corp.
of 25 Broad St., a relatively new international
trade organization composed of
leading American. Canadian and British
financiers and business men.
It is only one of several similar deals negotiated
or being negotiated by the Eric
Johnston organization. In general the details
of the deals are kept secret because of the
intense competition among American business
firms to discover methods of recovering
funds of theirs tied up abroad. One of the
largest industrial firms in effect competing
with MPAA in this respect—but only one of
many—is General Motors.
WCC OPERATIONS EXPLAINED
The operations of the World Commerce
Corp., at least as they relate to film money,
are simple. According to John A. R. Pepper,
vice-president, the WCC has been buying
up the blocked film currencies, paying for
them in dollars and obtaining licenses from
the "soft currency" countries to export commodities
needed elsewhere. The purpose, he
said, is twofold: dollars are recovered for
American firms and the economic position
of the foreign countries is improved through
the aid to their export trade.
Asked to estimate the total amount reclaimed
by WCC for U.S. film companies,
Pepper would only say that it is "a nice,
sizable sum and not $5,000,000." He foresaw
a rapid increase in reclaimed dollars
in the near future. The MPAA tieup with
WCC has been in effect only about six
months. The WCC deals only with countries
outside the iron curtain. It has made constant
efforts at top levels to obtain the release
of U.S. film funds blocked in the United
Kingdom, but without success so far, he said.
The WCC has been active since September
1947, calls itself "a little ECA" (Economic
Cooperation Administration), intends to remain
in business after the government agency
closes at the expiration of the emergency
Journey to South Africa
For Harmon Canceled
NEW YORK—Member companies of
the MPAA, after a meeting January. 4,
announced that they had decided not to
send either Francis S. Harmon, MPAA
vice-president, or any committee of their
own representatives to South Africa
"pending further conversations with U.S.
government officials in Washington."
Harmon had been prepared to begin a
flight to Johannesburg the day of the
meeting in connection with threatened
cuts in U.S. film revenue, but canceled
it to await the meeting's decision.
Ellis Arnall, new SIMPP president, had
previously said that Harmon would not
represent independent producers on the
trip and that he wanted the U.S. State
Department to handle the matter on a
top level basis and as the representative
of the entire industry.
Eagle Lion several weeks ago registered
a complaint with the State Department
that the French film quota works against
independents, and asked the government
agency to represent EL in discussions
with the French.
offices in London, Paris, Zurich, Milan, Lisbon,
Madrid and Tokyo, and agencies
throughout the world outside of Russia and
Soviet-dominated countries.
Pepper thought it might be of interest to
note that blocked film currencies in Italy
and France bought up by the WCC are now
being used to purchase rayon yarn for export
to the U.S., where they will be made
into fabrics for the use of American housewives.
Other foreign-made women's accessories
indirectly bought with blocked film
money will be arriving soon, he said. The
company also is importing German scrap
metal and shipping cattle to Italy where
stock suffered considerably because of the
outgo. Its core was American production of period and has almost unlimited credit. Its
strong credit position due to the outstanding
tourist films without cost to Canada.
is
individuals associated with it and Film Restrictions in Britain
To date 20th Century-Fox has made "Canadian
Pacific." Eagle Lion "Northwest Stampede"
in Cinecolor and Republic "Daredevils Corp. and the Hambros Bank of London. Do Not Help. Says Times
to the friendly attitude of the Transamerica
of the Clouds." the last with some Canadian
footage. Twelve shorts also have been NAMES OF THE ASSOCIATES
nual supplement on international trade stated
NEW YORK—The New York Times an-
made.
Associated with the WCC are Frank T. that the British film industry has not benefited
Forthcoming this year will be "Royal Canadian
Ryan, partner in Bache & Co., a member of
from import and playing time restric-
Mounted" and "Mrs. Mike" the New York Stock Exchange, its president; tions.
. Allied Artists-Monogram has a deal Edward R. Stettinius, ex-secretary of state; The article specifically mentioned the 45
with a Canadian company to make seven Floyd B. Odium, chairman of the Consolidated
per cent quota that went into effect last
Vultee Aircraft Corp.. head of Atlas October.
features. Probabilities are another Eagle
Lion and another 20th-Fox feature, Samuel Corp. and well known in the film business; It cited independent British producers who
Goldwyn's "Earth and High Heaven" with James D. Mooney, chairman of Willys-Overland
asserted that the industry is going bank-
Canadian backgrounds, and RKO, Universal
Motors: Maj. Gen. William A. Donorupt
in spite of—"or because of"—the quota.
and Walter Wanger productions. Goldwyn van, head of the Office of Strategic Services American film spokesmen in Britain said
also has registered the title "Quebec."
during the war: Joseph C. Grew, ex-ambassador
the quota is having two general effects. One,
Companies making the shorts are Paramount,
to Japan; Pepper, president of the Bid-
it has given British production false stimu-
Universal, Warner Bros., Columbia, dle-Sawyer Corp., and the Mellon interests
20th-Fox, MGM and James FitzPatrick. Several
in Pittsburgh.
lation which has resulted in poorer quality
films. Two. there has been a steep rise in
American companies have bought Cana-
Completed business transactions in 1948 production costs that has placed a heavy
dian-made shorts for distribution here. amounted to $14,000,000. The company has strain on the industry.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8. 1949 37

TVatAmyttot ^eficnt
^LTHOUGH THE DOPESTERS were
far
off base two months ago, it looks as if
they are on surer ground now as they predict
an all-out New Deal drive during the
next few months. How long it will last is
anybody's guess, but Monday's test vote on
the new rule to bypass the house rules committee
was a clear indication that the White
House has all the votes it needs for the
bulk of its most progressive legislation.
It means, too, that the fiscal policies of
President Truman are likely to be the fiscal
policies of the nation for a while. In other
words, don't look for any tax reduction this
year— in personal or corporate levies. It is
about an even money bet that there might
be an increase in corporate levies—but it
is not likely that there will be any rise in
personal rates except possibly in the very
top
brackets.
PARAMOUNT HAS RECEIVED an extension
of time from the Federal Communications
Commission within which it must keep
alive its battle against the FCC's ruling of
last month that it exercises control over the
DuMont Laboratories. At stake are half a
dozen television applications by the two companies.
The commission allowed additional
time last week for the filing of exceptions,
carrying the date almost to the end of this
month.
ALTHOUGH HE TOLD US this week he is
not interested in giving up his job as president
of SIMPP so soon after getting it, Ellis
Arnall, former governor of Georgia, is a distinct
possibility as successor to Att'y Gen.
Tom Clark. First of all. there will have to
be a vacancy on the Supreme Court for Clark
—and that could develop if the White House
were to name one of the present court members
secretary of
state.
Arnall was here this week talking over
Some of UA's Producers
Seen Quirting MPEA
NEW YORK—A rumor that United
Artists has formally resigned from the
Motion Picture Export Ass'n has been
denied by Arthur W. Kelly, UA vicepresident.
He pointed out that resignations
would not come from the organization
as a whole, but from the individual
affiliated producers having MPEA licenses.
Asked if there had been any "inference"
of a resignation in a letter recently
sent the MPEA. he intimated that
some affiliated producers are not fully
satisfied with the MPEA. In the event
of resignations, the producers would
withdraw as their licenses expire, beginning
in May and ending in August.
Irving Maas, MPEA general manager,
said he understood that "various" UA
producers would not renew their licenses,
but that there has been no formal notice
of cancellation. He added that by
no means do all UA producers hold licenses.
By ALAN HERBERT
the foreign situation with officials of the
State department. He told us he had no intention
of seeing the president while the
president was so busy with the congressional
opening, but that he planned to be here for
the inauguration. He would not deny interest
in a cabinet job.
Talking about SIMPP and its gibes at
MPAA, we were asked the other day if any
members of SIMPP had hired any of the
blacklisted ten "unfriendly" writers and directors.
We passed the question on to Arnall,
but he didn't know the answer.
IN CASE YOU'RE WONDERING what has
happened to your dollars lately, you might
be interested in the study released this week
by the National Ass'n of Broadcasters. For
every dollar of total revenue taken in by
the broadcasters of the nation in 1946. 73.5
cents went out for operating expenses. In
1947, 79 cents of each dollar went into operating
expenses. Salaries and wages, including
talent fees, rose from 43.2 cents per dollar
in 1946 to 46.1 cents in 1947. NAB said the
expense ratio was probably still on the rise.
DOUBTLESS JACK BENNY and some
other top name performers would agree that
the tax ratio is something calling for aspirin.
But maybe they were no more surprised than
we In Washington when the Treasury refused
to let them pay off at the 25 per cent
capital gains rate on their radio earnings.
Instead the personal income rate—going to
as much as three times the capital gains
rate and even more—is the rate at which
Benny and some other hopefuls will have to
pay Uncle Sam.
It was done without nearly so much noise,
but nearly two years ago the Treasury handed
down a few similar rulings when several
big-money Hollywood figures tried to use
the capital gains rate by setting up separate
corporations for individual productions, then
dissolving them. We have talked to one producer
who had to settle with the Treasury
at that time, and know definitely of more
than one other. The two cases are not identical,
but there was sufficient similarity to
indicate clearly what the Treasury would do
in the Benny case.
Wide Influence of Films
Is
Cited by Kearns
WASHINGTON—In his official report
to the house labor committee, Rep. Carroll
D. Kearns of Pennsylvania declared
that "it is impossible to measure the influence
which motion pictures exercise
over the lives of a very substantial portion
of our country's population. It may,
and often does, surpass the conservative
instruction of the home, the church or
the school. Motion pictures have come
to be recognized as one of the most effective
instrumentalities for the dissemination
of propaganda.
"The welfare of this industry, the
character of its leadership, and the quality
of the pictures which it produces are
matters of public interest and concern."
House Group Clears
Studios in Dispute
WASHINGTON—The house labor committee
this week cleared Hollywood studio executives
of all complicity in the costly jurisdictional
dispute which has plagued the
studios for the past few years. Instead, it
laid the responsibility squarely at the door
of the American Federation of Labor, terming
the strife "a sore thumb" and calling
upon the AFL to terminate it.
The report was authored by Rep. Carroll
D. Kearns, Pennsylvania Republican who is
himself a member of the AFL's American
Federation of Musicians. Kearns had charged
last year that industry toppers had been in
cahoots with one faction in the dispute, but
he has now decided that "there was no collusion
or conspiracy on the part of the motion
picture industry in the Hollywood jurisdictional
dispute."
For the absent President Eric Johnston of
the MPAA, executive assistant Joyce O'Hara
said this finding was "gratifying ... This
has always been our contention. We are
naturally pleased to see our position so completely
vindicated by the committee."
Kearns did not attempt to judge the overall
labor policy of the studios—but he said
their decision to remain open in the summer
of 1946, in the face of the threatened strike,
"was a matter of business judgment ... A
cessation of operations would have thrown
thousands of employes out of work and subjected
the producers to continuing liability
under their contracts with actors, directors
and theatre companies."
He said he could not understand how the
AFL could tolerate the situation, and called
upon it to take steps to clear up the Hollywood
situation and rule out jurisdictional
Offers 'Bargain Prices'
For Third-Run Films
NEW YORK—John Femicola of the Center
Theatre, Centerville, Md., was here December
31 conferring with his lawyers on his
$150,000 antitrust action against Paramount,
strikes.
20th Century-Fox, RKO, Columbia and two
salesmen, Charles Wingfield and F. B. Klein
of Columbia and 20th-Fox, respectively, who
own theatres in Church Hill and Chestertown,
Md.
Femicola told BOXOFFICE that a lack of
product is obliging him to take third run
films and that to play fair with his patrons Ltd., and Renaissance Films, Inc. Steve
he is now charging "bargain prices." He said Broidy. Monogram president, declared the
he is getting MGM first runs.
distribution commitment was tabled because
He charged originally that the salesmen, of the two Canadian companies' "failure . . .
because of their position, have been getting to start production in accordance with their
the better films.
original intention."
Monogram Drops Canadian Plans
HOLLYWOOD—Monogram has dropped its
plans to release a series of pictures which
were slated for production in Canada by
Canadian International Screen Productions
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949

—
Name 28 Exhibitor Co-Chairmen for Brotherhood Week
NEW YORK—Ed Lachman and Gael Sullivan,
national exhibitor co-chairmen for
Brotherhood week, of which Ned E. Depinet
is industry chairman, have named exhibitor
co-chairmen for 14 territories.
They are: Boston—E. Harold Stoneman,
Interstate Theatre Corp., and Daniel J. Murphy
of Independent Exhibitors of New England;
Washington—A. Julian Brylawski,
Warner Bros. Theatres, and Lauritz Garman.
MPTOA of Maryland; Seattle—Frank L.
Newman. Evergreen Theatres Corp., and L. O.
Lukan; Kansas City—Dick Biechele, Kansas-Missouri
Theatre Ass'n, and O. F. Sullivan,
AITO; Indianapolis—Trueman T
Rembusch, Associated Theatres of Indiana,
and Ken Collins, Indiana Theatre; San Francisco—Roy
Cooper, Golden State Theatre,
and Ben Levin, General Theatrical Corp.;
Denver—John M. Wolfberg, Allied Rocky
Mountain Independent Theatres, and Pat
McGee, Cooper Foundation; Milwaukee
Harold Fitzgerald, Fox Wisconsin Theatres,
Inc., and John Adler, Adler Theatre; New
Haven—Dr. J. B. Fishman, Allied Theatres
of Conn., and Albert Pickus, Stratford Theatre;
Philadelphia—J. J. O'Leary and Mrs.
Dorothy A. Samuelson, AITO of Eastern
Pennsylvania; Cincinnati—Wendel H. Holt,
W. Va. Managers' Ass'n, and Jack R. Keegan,
Northio Theatres; Pittsburgh—Moe Silver,
Warner Bros. Theatres, and Morris Finkel,
AMPTO of W. Pa.; Chicago—Jack Kirsch.
Allied Theatres of Illinois, Inc., and John
Balaban, Balaban & Katz; Los Angeles-
Harry Vinicoff,
Minor.
Strand Theatre, and Charles
Additional exhibitor territorial co-chairmen
chosen were: Cleveland—Ron Gamble, Palace
Theatre, and Martin G. Smith; Minneapolis-
Benjamin A. Berger, North Central Allied
Independent Theatre Owners, and Harry
French, Minnesota Amusement Co.: Portland
—Willard Gamble, Bagdad Theatre, M. W.
Mattecheck, Lark Theatre. Detroit—Earl
Hudson. United Detroit Theatres, and Joseph
P. Uvick, Allied Theatres of Michigan, Inc.;
New Orleans—William A. Prewitt jr.. Allied
Theatre Owners of Gulf State, and N. L.
Carter, Para-Richards Theatres, Inc.: Albany
—Harry Lamont and Saul J. Ullman. Fabian
Theatres.
Charles M. Reagan, chairman of the distribution
committee, held a meeting with
general sales managers of the eight major
companies January 4 to select exchange center
chairmen for "Brotherhood Week."
Those chosen by each company were: Paramount—Boston,
John Moore; Philadelphia,
Ulrick Smith; Dallas, Heywood Simmons, and
Milwaukee, Jess McBride. UA—Atlanta, John
Bachman. RKO—Buffalo, Jack Chinell;
Chicago, Sam Gorelick; San Francisco, Joe
Smith; Denver. Joe Emerson. Columbia—New
Orleans, Duke Duvall; Oklahoma City, Dewey
Gibbs; Memphis, Herman Crisman; Des
Moines, Clarke Baker. Warners—Cincinnati,
James Ambrose; Detroit, Don Woods; Minneapolis,
Art Anderson; Los Angeles, Fred
Greenberg. Loew's—Pittsburgh, Saul Gottleib
Indianapolis, Foster B. Gauker; Kansas
City, Albert L. Adler; St. Louis, Herbert
Bennin. Twentieth Century-Fox—New Haven,
Ben Simon; Cleveland, I. J. Schmertz;
Omaha. J. E. Scott, Portland, Charles F.
Powers. Universal-International—Albany, E.
Vogel; New York, Dave Levy; Charlotte, J.
W. Greenleaf. Eagle Lion—Washington, Fred
Rohrs; Seattle, Wallace Rucker.
Depinet, Dunne to Get
NCCJ Awards for '48
NEW YORK—Ned E. Depinet, Irene Dunne.
Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II
will receive awards at the amusements division
luncheon of the National Conference
of Christians and Jews at the Waldorf-Astoria
February 4.
Dr. Everett R. Clinchy, president of the
conference, said the awards will be made
for their efforts in promoting better understanding
among people of all faiths during
1948.
The amusements division will begin its
nationwide campaign with this luncheon.
The campaign will end with Brotherhood
week observances February 20-27.
J. Robert Rubin is division chairman and
Louis Nizer is chairman of the luncheon
committee.
i
PARAMOUNT
TRADE SHOW
Monday, Jan. 17th
• • •
RAY MILLAND
AUDREY TOTTER
THOMAS MITCHELL
ALIAS NICK BEAL
with
GEORGE MACREADY • FRED CLARK
Produced by ENDRE BOHEM
Directed by JOHN FARROW
CITY
PLACE OF SCREENING
ALBANY
FOX PROJ. ROOM, 1052 Broadway
.8 P. M.
ATLANTA PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 154 Walton St., N. W 10 30 A. M.
BOSTON
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 58 Berkeley St
I 1 A. M.
BUFFALO PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 464 Franklin St 10 30 A. M.
CHARLOTTE PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 305 South Church St
.1 P. M.
CHICAGO PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1306 South Michigan Ave...!/ 30 A. M.
CLEVELAND PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1735 East 23rd St
12 Noon
DALLAS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 41 2 South Harwood St 10: 30 A. M.
DENVER
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 2100 Stout St
10 A. M.
DES MOINES PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1125 High St
. 1 P. M.
DETROIT
PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 479 Ledyard Ave
II A.M.
INDIANAPOLIS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 116 West Michigan St
10 A. M.
JACKSONVILLE FLORIDA THEATRE SCREENING ROOM, 128 Forsyth St
.8 P.M.
KANSAS CITY PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1800 Wyandotte St 2 30 P. M.
LOS ANGELES BOULEVARD THEATRE, Washington and Vermont Sts
.2 P.M.
MEMPHIS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 362 South Second St 2 30 P. M.
MILWAUKEE PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 1121 North 8lh St 10: 30 A. M.
MINNEAPOLIS PARAMOUNT. PROJ. ROOM, 1201 Currie Ave 10 30 A. M.
NEW HAVEN PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 82 State St 10: 30 A. M.
NEW ORLEANS PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 215 South Liberty St 10 30 A. M.
NEW YORK CITY. . .PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 12th floor, 1501 Broadway .10 30 A. M.
OKLAHOMA CITY. . .PARAMOUNT PROJ. ROOM, 701 We

Awards of $27,500
Made in EL Drive
NEW YORK—Checks for $27,500 in cash
prizes for winners in the William J. Heineman
Eagle Lion sales drive have been sent
out.
First prize went to the Boston exchange
headed by Harry Segal. The award was
$3,400, to be divided into several categories
among staff members.
The other awards were: Detroit—Claire
Townsend. manager, $2,600; Seattle—Wallace
Rucker. manager, $2,600; Salt Lake City-
Arthur M. Jolley, manager, $1,700; Charlotte
—Harold Keeter, $1,500: Denver—Martin R.
Austin. $1,500: San Francisco—Lloyd Katz,
S1.500; Albany—Harry S. Alexander, $1,100;
Des Moines—F. J. Lee. manager. $1,000 (Lee
is now St. Louis manager) : Minneapolis-
Abbott M. Swartz. $1,000. Other prizewinners
were: Cincinnati, Milwaukee. Portland, Atlanta,
Kansas City, Philadelphia, St. Louis.
Washington and Cleveland.
Highest individual district manager's prizes
went to Edward Heiber, midwestern district
manager with headquarters in Chicago, who
received $1,000; second was $500 to Tom Donaldson,
former New England district manager,
and third was $250 to Grover Parsons,
southern district manager, with headquarters
at Atlanta.
Fred Rohrs, Washington, received $250 as
best branch manager: John Leo, San Francisco,
was awarded $150 as outstanding salesman,
and Sam Levine of Boston was declared
best booker. He received $100.
Three Tied for 1st Place
In EL Promotion Contest
NEW YORK—Three Eagle Lion field exploiteers
tied for first place in the field
men's contest for best promotion campaigns
during the Bill Heineman sales drive, according
to Max E. Youngstein, vice-president
in charge of advertising, publicity and exploitation.
The men, each of whom will receive identical
first place awards of $250. are: Max
Miller, for his campaign on "The Red Shoes"
at the National Theatre. Washington, D. C;
Milt Overman, for his campaigns on "Canon
City'' at the Rex and Skyline theatres. Canon
City. Colo., and at the Paramount and Webber
theatres. Denver, and "Mickey" at the
Paramount. Des Moines, and Bob Goodfried.
for his campaign on "He Walked by Night"
at the Paramount. San Francisco.
Second and third prizes went for "Canon
City" campaigns, with the second prize of
$150 to Joe Mansfield for his campaign on
Mire at the Paramount and Fenway
theatres. Boston, and third place award of
$100 to Addie Addison for his campaign at
the Paramount. Atlanta.
Sioux Falls Places First
In RKO Depinet Drive
NEW YORK—The RKO exchange in Sioux
Falls. Sherman Fitch, manager, took first
place in the first week of the 1949 Ned E.
Depinet drive. The same branch took first
place in the 1948 contest.
Chicago was second and Oklahoma City
and Kansas City were third and fourth, respectively,
In the capital prize class of the
drive. St. John and Calgary were first and
second in Canada.
Parents' Magazine Award
NEW YORK—Parents' magazine's
annual award for the "most talented
juvenile motion picture star" for 1948
goes to Dean Stockwell. Announcement
of the award will be made in the
February issue of the magazine.
The youngster received his award for
his performance in "The Boy With
Green Hair." Phil Willcox (right),
director of motion picture relations at
Parents' Institute, is shown in the accompanying
photograph presenting the
award to Pat O'Brien who, in turn, is
to make the presentation to young
Stockwell. Willcox has been plugging
for an annual Oscarette award by the
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and
Sciences to talented young actors as
a means of encouraging juvenile players
and recognizing their work.
The Parents' magazine award has
been given in the past to such stars
as Mickey Rooney. Roddy McDowall.
Diana Lynn, Margaret O'Brien, Elizabeth
Taylor. Claude Jarman jr., Natalie
Wood and Peggy Ann Garner.
Walter Morosco, Producer,
Dies While Vacationing
HOLLYWOOD—A heart ailment brought
death to Walter Morosco. 49, 20th Century-
Fox producer, while vacationing at Coronado.
a resort town near San Diego. Son of the
late Oliver Morosco. noted stage producer,
Morosco was born in San Francisco in 1899
and entered show business with his father
in 1925. He began his film career as a producer
with Educational Pictures and subsequently
was associated with How-ard Hawks.
United Artists, First National. Paramount
and 20th Century-Fox.
Morosco's films for the latter company included
such successes as "Margie," "Give My
Regards to Broadway" and "Sentimental
Journey." He had just completed a Loretta
Young starrer, "Mother Is a Freshman." He
is survived by his mother. Mrs. Anne Morosco.
and a son.
Postpone Clearance Case
NEW HAVEN—The clearance complaints
of Nicholas Kounaris and Apostolis Tolis of
the Newington Theatre, Newington, Connoriginally
set for arbitration December 16
and postponed to January 4. have again been
postponed, with the probability that there
will be an early settlement without resort
to arbitration procedures.
Paramount, RKO Skip
Quarterly Reports
NEW YORK—Paramount and RKO have
decided not to file quarterly reports on theatre
holdings with the three-judge expediting
court.
Reports, as required by the decree
of Dec. 31. 1946, have been filed by 20th
Century-Fox, Loew's and Warners. They were
due January 1.
A Paramount lawyer said the reports are
no longer necessary- Company attorneys had
filed extensive lists of theatres with the
court last month during the hearings on
joint holdings. These lists covered theatres
Paramount will seek to retain and theatres
it is willing to sell.
RKO did not file a report because the
consent decree of Nov. 8, 1948, has eliminated
the corporation as a defendant.
The 20th-Fox report mentioned the recent
transfer in Kansas City of the Orpheum
to National Theatres and the Mainstreet to
RKO. The deal was approved by the court
December 30.
Warners reported the acquisition by WB
of RKO's interest in the Allen Theatre, Cleveland.
Loew's reported negotiations for division
of the 13 theatres of Buffalo Theatres, Inc..
with its partner. Paramount. The Loew's
report also mentioned negotiations with RKO
for the Orpheum Theatre, Denver, now
owned on a 50-50 basis by both companies.
Disney Shows 1948 Loss,
Compared to '47 Profit
HOLLYWOOD—Shrinking revenues in both
the foreign and domestic market were contributing
factors to the $39,038 net loss recorded
by Walt Disney Productions for the
fiscal year ending Oct. 2, 1948. President Roy
O. Disney reported in his annual letter to
the company's stockholders. The $39,038 loss
compared with a profit of $307,075 for the
corresponding fiscal period of 1947.
Disney said the studio has been carrying
out a "thorough program of cost reduction
without diminishing productive capacity or
the quality of pictures" and added that "nonproduction
expenditures have been sharply
curtailed."
Current and working assets at the close
of the 1948 fiscal year exceeded current liabilities
by $5.043, 229, as compared with a
similar excess of $4,385,563 at the close of the
preceding fiscal year.
In addition to declining boxoffice receipts
in the U.S.. the company president said, foreign
revenues also continued to drop "as more
and more countries blocked their currencies
or adopted other regulations which hurt the
American film industry." Because of these
shrinking revenues, he added, the Disney
organization "considerably increased the
write-off of feature and short negative costs
against 1948 income."
Norman Freeman Leaves RKO
HOLLYWOOD—Another member of RKO
Radio's Old Guard vacated his company post
with the resignation of Norman Freeman,
assistant secretary, who also functioned as
assistant to President N. Peter Rathvon before
the latter resigned. Until February 1946.
when he moved to the studio, Freeman had
headquartered in the New York office.
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949

%
FROM THE FILES OF
Public Relations List
Covers Six Subjects
NEW YORK—The Industry Film Project
committee has scheduled two more shorts In
QATHERINE, the 1 -month-old baby recently
the public relations series it will release during
the next 12
abandoned in the Sheridan Square Theatre
in East Liberty, has been adopted by the
months, making a total of
six to date, and has set release dates on all.
Variety Club of Pittsburgh, and a fund has
"The Movies and You" has been selected as
been started for her education. The the title for
baby
the series.
has been given the name of Catherine V. The films and dates are: "Let's Go to the
Sheridan, the V standing for Variety and the Movies" (RKO), March 1: "This Theatre and
Sheridan for the theatre in which she was You" (WB), May 1; "Movies Are Adventure"
found. As a starter, each member of the club (U-Il, July 1; "The Art Director" (20thgave
$5 and a fund of $300 was raised toward Foxi, September 1; "The Screen Actor,"
her education. The baby is now in the which MGM is now producing, November 1.
Rosella Foundling home. John H. Harris, and "A Film Goes to Market," now in Paramount
production, Jan. 1, 1950.
head of the Harris Amusement Co., which
owns the Sheridan Square Theatre, is also Tom Waller, MPAA information director
president of the Variety Club and it was in New York and eastern coordinator of the
largely through his efforts that this action series, is preparing a wrap-around prospectus
on the part of the club was taken.
for the pressbooks to be produced by the individual
companies when their films are
Lee Marcus has been elected as vice-president
of Film Booking Offices, with Charles Stanley Shuford. Paramount advertis-
released.
Rosenzweig as general sales manager and ing head, who will do the art work, expects
to send out invitations January 10 to
B. B. Kahane as secretary-treasurer . . . The
Stanley Company of America has purchased trade screenings of the first four. They will
a site and has plans for a theatre at the go to tradepaper publishers and editors.
corner of Wayne and Chelton avenues, Philadelphia.
The proposed house and the site
will represent an investment of $1,500,000.
New S.O.S. Catalog Out
Al Christie has completed his first alltalking
and all-colored Octavus Roy Cohen NEW YORK—A new 64-page catalog covering
story, "The Melancholy Dame," for Paramount.
operation has just been issued by S. O. S.
every phase of motion picture theatre
Cinema Supply Corp. Over 100 illustrations
distributed throughout the book alongside the
Signs for Florida Films
text make it simple to order the wanted
NEW YORK—Jack Goldberg, executive parts. Sections are devoted to equipment
producer of Herald Pictures, has acquired distribution
rights to all short subjects to be trical installations, lobby, boxoffice, photog-
for auditorium, booth, drive-in theatres, elec-
produced by the Ball Film Studios, Miami. raphy, portable and home movies, projection
"Florida Water Sports," first in a monthly lighting, 16 and 35mm projection, public address
systems, theatre sound, stage, studio,
series, is now in production. Harold Walker
represented the Ball company in the deal. recording and laboratory.
ERSKINE JOHNSON
^M
HAS SWITCHED TO
Michael WHALEN
Denise DARCEL
FAMILY HONEYMOON
Marian MARTIN
Lyle TALBOT
I thought 'You Can't Take It With
Vince BARNETT
You' was the best comedy I had ever
Roscoe ATES
Produced by William Stephens
Directed by Robert Edwards
seen . . . until I saw Claudette Colbert
A LIPPERT PRODUCTION
and Fred MacMurray in 'FAMILY
Released thru ^» . _ —
HONEYMOON'"
* Noted NEA Columnist and Radio Commentator
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

Skouras Sees Merging
Tele-Film Interests
NEW YORK—Spyros Skouras, president of
20th Century-Fox, told the Radio Executives
club at its December 30 luncheon that he
sees in the future a merging of motion picture
and television interests, giving films
their "greatest impetus." It would come, he
said, only after many "stormy periods."
Skouras visualized video as feeding programs
to thousands of theatres, including
films, live talent and special events. Openings
of big feature films and other events
such as opera debuts would be seen simultaneously
all over the country. Exhibitors
would gross two to three times as much as
they do today, because new types of audiences
would be attracted.
The only "out" to his prediction, Skouras
said, would be if tolls are charged for the
operation of home sets so that stay-at-homers
could see first run films for a fee. This could
be done by some "gadget" which would register
a charge, he said.
DRIVE-IN EXHIBITORS
KOIL-K0RDS for replacements on any speaker.
BURIAL WIRE transposed Neo-Seal 14-2, thousand feet $58.30.
SCREEN TOWERS pre-fabricated steel, amazingly low prices.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MANUFACTURING CO.
2017 Grand Ave. (Phone HA. 8007) Kansas City, Mo.
USED THEATRE SEATS
Thousands — Completely Reconditioned
All Types — From $4.75 Up
(Others from SI.50 Up)
Write tor Prices and Photographs
Immediate Delivery — Anywhere in U. S.
Delivery in Good Condition Guaranteed
ATLAS CHAIR 4 EQUIPMENT SALES CO.
211 Moss Avenue Detroit 3, Mich.
Phone TOwnsend 8-7227
THEATRES

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..,"
CHESTER FRIEDMAN
EDITOR
HUGH E. FRAZE
SECTION
PRACTICAL IDEAS FOR SELLING SEATS BY PRACTICAL SHOWMEN
Citations to Nine Ad Executives
Swell December Bonus List
Charles Doctor
G. E. Robinson
Theatre managers from seven states and
two Canadian provinces were awarded BOX-
OFFICE Bonuses for exceptional showmandising
during December in the 20th consecutive
monthly distribution of cash. Each of
the ten managers will receive $10 and a Citation
of Honor from BOXOFFICE for distinguished
achievement in various phases of
promotion.
In addition, nine theatre advertising and
publicity executives were cited for their outstanding
individual initiative and ability and
for their participation in Showmandiser activities
throughout the year. Each of these
will receive a special Citation of Honor
for his contribution of advertising layouts
and ideas which many exhibitors have acknowledged
to be generally helpful in the
preparation of their own campaigns.
The nine special citations were awarded to:
ALICE GORHAM, ad-publicity director for
United Detroit Theatres.
JAY WREN, ad-publicity director, Paramount-Adams,
Newark.
BEN ADLER, art director, Warner Theatres,
Newark.
HANK HAROLD, art director, RKO Theatres,
Cleveland.
ELLIOT T. JOHNSON, ad-publicity director,
Malco Theatres, Memphis.
A. J. LAURIE, publicity director, Odeon
Theatres, Toronto.
HELEN WABBE, publicity director, RKO
Golden Gate Theatre, San Francisco.
JOHN C. SPERDAKOS, assistant advertising
director, United Amusement Corp.,
Montreal.
ED KIDWELL, district manager, Theatre
Enterprises, Kansas City.
The December Bonus for the most original
idea went to Frank Denehy, manager
of the Orange Theatre, Orange, Mass. Denehy
submitted a photograph of Santa Claus
(Continued on next page)
Ralph Rothman
CT|
)
Francis DeZengTemel W. D. Butler Wayne Singer Frank Denehy Fred Greenway
mm
J^ck ute-ina eJLiaht
A puppy giveaway promoted for "Hills of Home" by Ray
Light, manager of the Maryland Theatre, Cumberland, and
Harry Steam, Schine district manager, had an unusual and
happy ending. The December 28 issue of the Cumberland Times
reported that a 13-year-old boy had won the collie. On the
same page was a story about Arlene Reed, 9-year-old crippled
girl, all but heartbroken when her younger brother reported
that her letter had not been adjudged the best. When Arlene
learned that she would not have a pet to help ease her long
days of sitting, her pluckiness gave way. She cried. The story
concluded with a plea for a dog to make the child happy.
Steam and Light went into action immediately. They contacted
MGM officials in Washington, received an okay to
' '
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make a second presentation, this time a pedigreed cocker
spaniel, and surprised the youngster at her home. The next
day's edition of the Evening Times carried the complete story
with a three-column picture of the delighted child and her pet.
Steam's weekly letter to his managers concluded: "While
this did not increase our receipts, it certainly won the goodwill
of the people for the Maryland Theatre."
For the motion picture industry, Harry.
Helen Wabbe, publicist at the RKO Golden Gate in San
Francisco, memos: "Have just lined up all the good things I
am going to in the New Year, like getting my campaigns in to
the Showmandiser, getting to work on time, getting more fun
out of work, and living like the guy who said, I'm here to
GIVE ulcers, not to get them.'"
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: Jan. 8, 1948 — 1- 43

HELEN WABBE Elliot Johnson Hank Harold
Ad Men Win BOXOFFICE Citations
(Continued from preceding page*
and his reindeer atop the theatre roof which
appeared in the December 25 issue of the
Showmandiser.
The Bonus for institutional promotion was
awarded to Francis De Zengremel, manager
of the Seneca Theatre in Salamanca, N. Y.,
who tied up with the Elks club for Americanism
talks and a free show for juveniles
as part of the organization's national campaign.
The Canadians who will receive Bonuses
are Charles Doctor, Capitol Theatre, Vancouver,
B. C. lobby display, and G. E. Robinson,
Roxy Theatre, Acton, Ontario, program.
A double-truck newspaper co-op ad developed
by Ralph Rothman. manager of the
Rialto, Morrilton, Ark., was considered outstanding
among several hundred submitted
by theatremen during the month and earned
him $10 plus a Citation.
A series of newspaper ads submitted by
Warren Butler, manager of the Lyric, Salt
Lake City, earned another Bonus. Wayne
Singer, manager of the Forsythe in East Chicago,
Ind., received a Bonus for his excellent
front on "Drums" and "Four Feathers," a
double-feature combination.
Billy Wilson, manager of the Beacham
Theatre, Orlando, Fla., was cited for an
outstanding window display arranged for
"Secret Land," and Fred Greenway, Palace,
Hartford, Conn., completed the list with a
general all-round campaign for "Julia Misbehaves."
Archie Laurie John C. Sperdakos Ben Adler
Stage Open Once Weekly
To Local Drama Groups
Steve Kurpen, manager of the Astor Theatre,
East Hartford, Conn., derived columns
of goodwill plugs in the local dailies from
his offer to turn over the theatre one night
a week to "live" entertainment, such as
local dramatic organizations. Newspapers
and theatre patrons praised Kurpen for this
action, since scarcity of theatre space has
held up much amateur dramatic work.
44
String Reminder Used
Walter Behrens, manager of the Capitol,
West Allis, Wis., used a novelty throwaway
to stimulate interest in "Rope." He had
cards imprinted with a message that the
picture's story concerns the murder of an
innocent man. To each card a piece of string
was stapled with a reminder message to
tie the string around a finger. The cards
were distributed by hand in the shopping
section and in homes.
—2—
Shreveport Showman
Enters U-I Contest
With 'Venus'
M. V. McAfee, manager of the Don Theatre,
Shreveport, La., submitted a recent
campaign to Showmandiser for "One Touch
of Venus" as his initial entry for the U-I
Unity Drive contest and for the January
BOXOFFICE Bonus.
A Miss Venus contest was the highlight of
his campaign and was inspired after McAfee
held a sneak preview of the picture three
weeks before its regular booking. The contest
was launched with cooperation from the
business girls sorority of Shreveport, the
Beta Sigma Phi. Fourteen girls entered a
eliminations on the Don stage, with
series of
finalists appearing on December 15.
McAfee contacted U-I publicists in Hollywood
and arranged to obtain the Venus costume
worn by Ava Gardner in the picture
for display purposes. This was used as the
angle to promote a wardrobe valued at $300
for the contest winner. The gown was placed
in the window of the cooperating store and
newspaper ads helped to stir up interest in
the display. Additional prizes for contest
runnersup were promoted from other merchants.
Arrangements were also made with
the U-I studio to have the winner receive
congratulatory telegrams from Ava Gardner,
Dick Haymes and Eve Arden on the night
of the finals.
Both the Times and the Journal, with a
combined circulation of 500,000 in the area,
devoted news and art breaks to the contest
beginning two weeks in advance and continuing
through the final announcement of
the winner. Special exchange heralds, lobby
displays and newspaper and radio plugs
helped to stimulate additional interest in
the playdates.
Collie Puppy Is Awarded
At 'Home' Kiddy Show
A pedigreed collie puppy valued at $250
was promoted by Herb Gordon, manager of
the St. James Theatre, Asbury Park, N. J.,
as a prize giveaway at a kiddy matinee of
"Hills of Home."
Gordon tied up with the makers of Red
Heart dog good, which features Lassie on
a daily radio program, and promoted a year's
supply of the product to award the puppy
winner. The company also set up window
displays in four local pet shops, plugging
their product and the pictures, and imprinted
500 booklets tying in the dog food with
"Hills of Home," which the four stores distributed.
A neighborhood pet shop paid for 5,000
heralds announcing the children's matinee
and the puppy giveaway, using the back of
the herald for its own ad.
Collects From 'Good Sam'
For "Good Sam" at the Poll Theatre.
Bridgeport, Conn., an unusually effective
street ballyhoo was arranged by John Di-
Benedetto, assistant manager. Five-foot cutouts
of Gary Cooper, with his hand in his
pocket as though to withdraw money, were
set up alongside every Salvation Army kettle.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: Jan. 8, 1949

Trailers on Nexi Film
Projecledin Lobby
Of News Theatre
As an experiment in lobby advertising, the
Telenews Theatre in Dallas, Tex., has been
using a Sono-Vision machine to entertain
patrons and apprise them of coming attractions,
according to a report from Jim Preddy,
manager.
A miniature mechanical motion picture
device, consisting of a projector, a moving
picture screen and continuous film, the machine
was originally located in the outer
foyer of the theatre and later moved outside
to attract the attention of passersby.
Trailers of forthcoming programs are used,
along with a short subject such as a
travelog.
To attract interest in "Dear Murderer,"
Preddy ran a contest in which patrons were
asked to identify "perfect crimes" of literature
and screen, from clues submitted.
Ballots were available in the lobby well in
advance of playdate, and passes were offered
the first 50 persons correctly naming the
answers to all six clues.
An art exhibit sponsored by the Federation
of Dallas Artists was placed on view in the
Telenews gallery. It included outstanding
works of paintings by Texans, and through
the wide publicity in the daily newspapers,
attracted extra patronage to the theatre.
For "Mine Own Executioner," Preddy planted
a two-column scene cut from the picture
with the Dallas Morning News. The Times-
Herald broke special art two days in advance
of the opening of "Gung Ho!" and
ran a review on the picture.
New Rouyn, Que., Theatre
Hailed by Special Issue
Theatre fans in Rouyn, Que., received an
advance Christmas present in the form of
a new theatre which opened December 18.
The Paramount, which the new house is
named, is the seventh to come under the
standard of Korman Theatres, Ltd., operated
by Dave Korman and his sons Nick
and Sam in affiliation with Famous Players
Canadian. It is a modern, fireproof structure.
To celebrate the opening, the Rouyn-Noranda
Press issued a special edition sponsored
by local contractors and merchants
with full news coverage on the theatre, its
many innovations, services and comforts and
the personnel.
Coloring Contest Assists
Lowell 'Pompeii' Duo
A coloring contest planted with the Lowell
Sunday Telegram helped to promote interest
in the reissue combination of "She" and
"Last Days of Pompeii" for Frank Boyle,
publicist for the RKO Keith Theatre in that
city. Boyle supplied the paper with the mat
and 15 passes, which were awarded for winning
entries.
Boyle also hit the air waves with gratis
plugs by offering passes to radio station
WCCM's Phone-O-Quiz program.
A week in advance, a miniature volcano
was displayed in the lobby which was equipped
with trick lighting effects. The display
stopped traffic.
Prehistoric Monsters of Papier Mache
Provide Modern Island' Ballyhoo
Book a good exploitation picture for a
showman and there is never a doubt that
business at the boxoffice will be good. Jerry
Juroe, publicist for the Paramount Theatre
in San Francisco, saw "Unknown Island"
coming. He launched a campaign that resulted
in long lines of eager patrons in front
of the Paramount throughout the picture's
run.
Juroe decided that the regular trailer for
the film gave away too much of the action.
He made up his own trailer, selling the
weird musical background, dinosaur stills for
pictorial art, used the familiar "see" copy,
injected the human angle and had the film
printed on green tinted stock. The trailer
started plenty of word-of-mouth publicity
two weeks before opening.
For the lobby, a ten-foot dinosaur standee
head with "see" copy and many stills attracted
attention. A 28-foot board was constructed
over the main entrance doors. This
contained dinosaur cutouts, the title, and a
masking of jungle foliage which concealed a
row of lamps for illumination.
A third-dimensional display was created in
cyclorama format. In the foreground was
a blowup of one of the stars holding a rifle.
The background pictured a blowup cutout of
Exploits New Chairs
H. S. "Doc" Twedt, manager of the Princess,
Britt, Iowa, reports some of his recent
activities were topped by public relations
stunts. Twedt played host to the football
and basketball teams of the Britt High
school, both championship groups, on successive
evenings. The installation of new
chairs at the Princess gave the Britt showman
an opportunity to use several clever
teaser ads in the daily paper. Twedt also
displayed one of the new chairs in the lobby
along with an invitation for passersby to
try out the new comfort.
a dinosaur. Overhead lighting gave the display
a realistic setting.
Additional lobby exhibits included two 12-
foot primitive bats made of papier mache,
a giant lizard more than 10 feet long, also
of papier mache, an 8-foot gorilla and a 10-
foot dinosaur.
The entire lobby and exterior during the
engagement was covered with palm leaves
and bamboos to create additional atmosphere.
Huge dinosaur tracks were stenciled on the
sidewalks with copy: "Follow Me to 'Unknown
Island.' " For five days before opening,
a 12-foot dinosaur mounted on a flat
truck was driven around the city to herald
the playdates. At night the ballyhoo was
illuminated from two spotlights mounted
atop the truck cab.
Sets of post cards illustrated with prehistoric
monsters were distributed to exiting
patrons at the Paramount and three affiliated
theatres in San Francisco a week before
opening. Additional cards were passed
out at
schools and through the ancient history
departments at high schools.
Carriers of the San Francisco Call-Bulletin
saw the first showing of the picture as regular
paying guests. The news section of the
paper carried two special stories and art with
full theatre mention.
Cartoons Given Academy
Nomination by Patrons
Walter Chenoweth, manager of the Alexandria
Theatre in San Francisco, utilized
a novel angle to stimulate interest in "Flora,"
a Columbia cartoon. Chenoweth placed a
petition in the lobby urging patrons to nominate
the short subject as their selection for
the Academy award and the best cartoon of
the year. Drama pages gave the stunt feature
coverage and word-of-mouth publicity
helped to attract extra patronage during
the run of the film.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: Jan. 8, 1949
45

Annual Christmas party at the Renel. children's theatre in Philadelphia, was ballyhooea
by Manager Howard Phillips and Santa Claus.
Ideas for Seliing
Above: Fred Serrao, manager of the Circle.
New Kensington. Pa., had a Hollywood 40x60
obtained from National Screen Service
mounted on the front attraction sign. Lower
photo shows ballyhoo for "Station West."
Right: Clever display
created by Billy Wilson,
manager.
Beacham, Orlando,
Fla.. to exploit "Road
House."
At left, doorman and
usherettes wore co»-
tumes from "Easter
Parade" to publicize
the opening at the
Palace. Wichita. Kas..
Manager Ted
for
Sheahon.
Above and right, false
fronts constructed by Ray
Watkins. manager. Strand.
Great Bend, Kas., provide
flash at low expense.
Left, simplicity of this lobby
setpiece helped to hypo interest
in "Rope" for Fred
Ottor at the Community
Theatre, Morristown. N. J.
46 BOXOFFICE ShowmandUer :: Jan. 8, 1949

Air Show From Lobby
And Plane Ballyhoo
Sell Boston 'Song'
Extensive radio promotion for "A Song Is
Born" at the Astor in Boston was topped by
.two broadcasts from the lobby over station
WHDH. Fred B. Cole's Carnival of Music
program, heard daily from 10:00 a. m. to
noon, and Bob Elliott's Back Bay Matinee
Show were dedicated to the picture. The
broadcasts were plugged for days ahead via
spot announcements and newspaper ads.
Danny Kaye fans were interviewed by both
disk jockeys and selections were played from
the film. Record distributors donated 1,000
gift records which were given to patrons on
opening day.
A feature of the campaign on opening day
was a sign towed by an airplane over the
city with copy: "It's K-aye Day at the Astor."
According to police estimates, the plane
was visible to 200,000 persons who lined the
downtown streets to watch a parade and
more than 20,000 persons at the nearby Rockingham
races, in addition to thousands of
other pedestrians who were in the streets
and at football games in the metropolitan
area.
Dance Studio Presents
Tomorrow's Star Show
W. S. Eckard, manager of the Ashland
(Ohio) Theatre, tied up with a dance studio
which recently opened a branch in town.
To acquaint local residents with the studio,
60 of the best pupils from nearby Akron
were brought to Ashland for a revue entitled
Stars of Tomorrow, held on the theatre stage.
A young woman who has appeared in several
Warner pictures was included in the group.
The studio furnished the talent, music and
a special trailer, the theatre assuming the
responsibility of publicizing the added attraction.
School Tieup Exploits
'Thunder' at Hartford
A school tieup arranged by James Mc-
Carthy, manager of the Strand, Hartford,
Conn., helped promote extra interest In
"Thunder in the Pines." Placards were
tacked on all school bulletins with copy,
"Protect Your City's Tr?es, See 'Thunder in
the Pines,' etc." McCarthy took advantage
of numerous sports tieups to obtain displays
in windows which featured star illustrations
and stills from the film production in addition
to prominent theatre mention.
Perfume Is Given Away
At 'Musketeer' Opening
Bernard Grasso, assistant manager of
Loew's State, Newark, N. J., tied up with
Lentheric perfumes and obtained 1,500
samples of their Three Musketeers shaving
lotion as a giveaway to male patrons opening
day of "The Three Musketeers." Grasso
also landed a window display in Kresge's
department store which featured three original
costumes worn in the filming of the
production, the Three Musketeers lotion, and
complete theatre credits.
Paper Thanks Manager
For Civic Spirit
Ed O'Donnell, manager of the State,
Webster, Mass., received public commendation
for promoting Webster Shopping
Days to help local business and the theatre
before Christmas.
As part of a citywide campaign, merchants
donated valuable prizes which
were given away on lucky numbered
tickets to customers of participating
stores.
The Webster Times presented its Carnation
of the Week to O'Donnell with the
following statement: "He went to a great
deal of inconvenience and devoted much
work in securing the use of the State
Theatre for the distribution of prizes as
a finale for Webster Shopping Days. Although
the theatre had nothing to sell for
Shopping Days . . . his cooperation is a
fine example of civic spirit."
Garter Toss Stimulates
Interest in 'Julia'
Bill
Straub, manager of the Colonial, Norwich,
N. Y., had male patrons interested in
"Julia Misbehaves" a week before opening.
Straub set up a cutout figure of Greer Garson
with one leg extended. An usher handed
each man a garter and the idea was to toss
the garter on to the leg to win free passes.
Straub also promoted a 2-column, 9-inch ad
gratis from the local newspaper.
cast m&hng for
3 WEEK 1 .
This composite ad was drawn by Erv Clumb,
ad manager lor the Towne Theatre in Milwaukee.
Layout was a real attention-getter
lor third week holdover of "The Three Musketeers."
Cereal Miller Gives
'Red River' Windows,
Co-op Ad, Banners
Capitalizing on a national tieup with
Maple Leaf Milling Co., manufacturers of
Red River cereal, paid boxoffice dividends for
Ernie Warren, manager of the Elgin Theatre,
Ottawa, Ont., in conjunction with the
engagement of "Red River."
The cereal concern paid for 400 22x28
window cards and distributed them to grocers
handling its product. About 75 per cent of
the space on the card was devoted to theatre
imprint and a still reproduction from
the picture.
The company also donated 1,000 one-pound
packages of cereal for distribution to children
who attended a special morning showing
of "Red River." All delivery trucks carried
banners plugging the theatre playdates,
and a 400-line newspaper co-op ad completed
the tieup.
Warren tied up for attractive window displays
with department stores, a camera shop
and other downtown merchants. He contacted
the news agency and promoted window
streamers tied in with the Pocketbook edition
of "Red River" in 150 newspaper and
tobacconist stores. News trucks carried banners
heralding the Elgin booking.
Caplan's department store supplied manikins
and outdoor clothing accessories for
a lobby exhibit of "Red River" fashions.
Radio promotion included more than $100
worth of free time in the form of announcements
following programs with western and
adventure flavor.
Residents in a 40-mile area were reached
with stories and art planted in weekly publications.
Each editor received a pass to the
Elgin which served to make them very cooperative.
Perry, N. Y., Kiddy Program
Backed by Merchants
Seward Munger, manager of the Auditorium
Theatre, Perry, N. Y., worked in conjunction
with the local merchants association
which sponsored a yule kiddy program a
week before Christmas. Munger arranged for
Santa Claus to greet the kiddies from the
stage, read mail and interview the youngsters.
To provide a personal touch to his pre-
Christmas attractions, Munger conducted a
Roving Reporter program on Main street,
getting in some valuable plugs for his coming
shows.
Shoe Store Well Pleased
Last year Boyd Sparrow, manager of
Loew's, Indianapolis, tied up with the Marott
shoe shop on an Easter coloring contest.
The stunt was so successful that the store
agreed to sponsor a repeat contest for the
recent engagement of "The Three Musketeers."
The store ran two large ads, including
a mat, in the Times and Star offering
$25 in three prizes for the best entries
received. The mat pictured showed one of
the exciting highlights from "The Three
Musketeers" and gave the Loew playdates
in large bold type. Sparrow credits his assistant,
Keith Southard, with the tieup.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Jan. 8, 1949
47

You Cant Lick 'Em, Jine 'Em;
Television-Theatre Ads Show How
this is ACTUM SIIF
The reproduction above, is a full-page
co-op newspaper advertisement which appeared
in the Syracuse, N. Y., newspapers.
There are several unique features connected
with the tieup. It opens the way for cooperative
theatre ads with every dealer handling
television sets.
In this instance the dealer is represented
by Dey Bros, department store. The idea was
conceived by the store's advertising manager,
Ben Doroff. It was developed with assistance
from Harry Unterfort, city manager for
Manager of Drive-In
Uses Direct Mail
Frank Bickerstaff. manager of the new
Rexview Drive-in in Columbus, Ga., reports
that he has been building a mailing list to
keep regular patrons informed on his coming
attractions. Newcomers to the city and
parents of new babies receive specially worded
invitations to be guests at the Rexview.
Bickerstaff also has his regular weekly
programs imprinted with lucky numbers as
a means of building up concession counter
sales. A list of numbers is posted each week
at the concession stand, and those receiving
programs with lucky numbers are presented
free admission tickets.
Sets 'Carnegie' Air Show
To publicize "Carnegie Hall," Lou Fuhrmann,
manager of the Temple. Cortland, N.
Y., got the local radio station to feature a
15-minute program of recordings by stars
who appear in the film production.
Schine Theatres in Syracuse.
msvisioh
Doroff's idea involves a form of cooperative
advertising with the manufacturers of television
sets and the local dealer. The theatre
is brought in the deal by using scenes from
coming attractions and full theatre credit
which appears in the lower right corner below
the illustration.
Doroff has already interested four manufacturers
in his idea. Each has produced
page ads in the dailies with the theatre tiein.
NUGGETS
Harper Howard, manager of the Elmwood
Theatre, Penn Yan, N. Y., hooked up with
a furniture dealer and promoted an eightpiece
living room suite or $300 in cash for a
pre-Christmas business booster. Harper gave
the cooperating merchant a trailer and a
40x60 lobby display, plus a window sign.
Jack Lykes, manager of the Colony in Toledo,
put over an effective tieup for "Johnny
Belinda" in cooperation with Hurley's furniture
store. A complete set of furniture was
displayed in the Colony lobby, in return for
which the store purchased a three-column,
15-inch co-op ad. A large size cut of Jane
Wyman. with theatre and playdate credits,
headed the upper portion of the ad, and a
box near the bottom invited readers to visit
the display at the Colony.
Music store tieups featuring the Gene Kelly
song-and-dance-man album were made by
Warren Butler, manager of the Lyric, Salt
Lake City, to help exploit the date for "The
Three Musketeers."
$1,000 Giveaway Deal
Ups Holiday Profit
Ai Norwich, N.Y.
A $1,000 giveaway, promoted in cooperation
with 35 Norwich, N. Y., merchants,
helped to give Bill Straub, manager of the
Colonial there, two exceptionally good nights'
grosses on Christmas eve and Friday night
of the week preceding.
Straub contacted businessmen in Norwich
and Oxford, and arranged to supply them
with lucky drawing coupons to distribute
with every purchase. Each merchant contributed
an equal amount of cash which provided
eight prizes of $100 each and four
prizes of $50 each. These were split up on
the designated drawing nights.
A sufficient amount of money was pooled
to pay for newspaper advertisements announcing
the giveaway on the Colonial stage,
and for several thousand heralds which were
distributed to householders in Norwich and
Oxford.
Straub reports that this was one of the
most successful tieups he ever attempted,
resulting in merchant satisfaction, community
goodwill and capacity boxoffice business
on both nights.
Gifts for Juvenile Show
Donated by Shoe Store
Nick Kauffman, manager of the Rialto.
Little Falls, N. Y., staged a kiddy show recently,
with novelty gifts promoted from a
local shoe store for presentation to every
child who attended.
To exploit "Johnny Belinda." Kauffman
sent letters to residents, emphasizing the
singular distinction of the picture as compared
to previous attractions at the Rialto.
Window displays were arranged with tobacco
shops, around a tieup of Lew Ayres
smoking a pipe. Hosiery and department
stores went for other tieup ideas which resulted
in counter and window displays.
Stills featuring leg art on Greer Garson
were used for individual display standees
set up in various shops on Main street to
promote extra interest in "Julia Misbehaves."
Collie Pup Is Given Away
To Spur 'Hills of Home'
A puppy giveaway was used by Jtfhnny
Matis, publicity director for the R. D. Goldberg
Enterprises in Omaha, to exploit the
State Theatre engagement of "Hills of Home."
Ten days in advance, a collie pup was placed
on display in the lobby, with signs announcing
that it would be presented to the person
submitting the best name for it, along with a
letter stating why the name was considered
suitable. Indicative of the high interest in
the contest, Matis reports that 2,400
entries were received.
separate
Window for 'Calendar'
A full window display advertising "The
Calendar" was promoted by Lily Watt, manager
of the Florida Cinema, King's Park,
Glasgow, in Scotland. The display was located
at a gasoline station, centrally located
where traffic is heavy. Inserts and posters
provided an effective flash with the theatre
prominently in evidence.
BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Jan. 1949

Victor Fleming Dead;
Veteran Film Director
COTTONWOOD, ARIZ. — Victor Fleming,
> daughters, Victoria,
A \^H
14. and Sally. 11.
Fleming was a
Victor Fleming veteran in the film
business, having started as a cameraman in
1910. Following service in the World War I.
he took up directorial reins—his first effort
was "Till the Clouds Roll By" which starred
Douglas Fairbanks. He liked the adventurous
type of story, and one of his major successes
was the result of a world camera tour. It
was the story of the trip, "Around the World
in 80 Minutes" and was a hit in 1931. He
made the trip with Fairbanks, who also
starred in the picture.
His greatest achievement was "Gone With
the Wind," which he directed for Selznick.
For it, he was awarded the 1939 Oscar for
best direction of the year. Among the stars
he had directed during the silent days of
motion pictures were Constance Talmadge,
Dorothy and Lillian Gish and Emil Jannings.
As a cameraman, he had been associated with
such early producing companies as Kalem,
Artcraft, Fine Arts and with David Wark
Griffith.
He was born in Pasadena, and his adventurous
nature led him into automobile
racing on Los Angeles dirt tracks. Knowledge
of the mechanics of automobiles led
to repairing cameras when Hollywood was
young; then to camerawork itself, to his
career as one of the industry's top directors.
IATSE, Majors Deadlock
On New Exchange Pacts
NEW YORK—Commissioner L. A. Stone of
contract for the 6,300 workers in the 32 exchange
centers. Following a month of negotiations,
the company representatives turned
down the IATSE demands for a 15 per cent
general wage increase and a cut in working
hours from 40 to 35 hours weekly.
Meanwhile, workers at the 67 IATSE exchange
locals throughout the country have
been ordered to "stand by for further instructions,"
an order which might be a forerunner
to a strike vote which would halt
exchange operations. The IATSE is expected
to remain firm in its demand for the wage
increase, according to a union spokesman,
while the distributors' committee is taking
Statewide Fight Started
On Taxes by MMPTA
NEW YORK—A statewide campaign
against a "threatened onslaught of local admission
taxes and other adverse legislation"
has been opened by the Metropolitan Motion
Picture Theatres Ass'n with invitations
to national and state exhibitor leaders to
attend a board of directors' meeting at the
Hotel St. Moritz January 13.
While its immediate purpose is to combat
legislation such as the five per cent levy on
theatre admissions recently passed by the
Binghamton city council, the MMPTA stands
ready to take exception to any "discriminatory"
legislation that might be proposed by
Gov. Thomas E. Dewey when he delivers his
budget message later this month.
Dewey said January 5 in his message to
the legislature that increased expenditures
are necessary and acknowledged that more
taxes will be needed to finance his program.
The state administration is known to
favor higher income and gasoline taxes.
The MMPTA through Executive Director
D. John Phillips January 6 wrote all New
York State exhibitors asking them to be
on the alert for the introduction of local
admission tax legislation and to report any
such activity to the MMPTA or to any other
the position that "raises are not in order at
this time."
Thomas J. Shea, IATSE assistant international
president, is chairman of the union
negotiating committee, which also has Louis
Wright, vice-president, and Joseph D. Basson,
international representative. Clarence
Hill
of 20th Century-Fox heads the distributors'
committee, which also includes G. J.
Malafront. Universal -International; C. J.
"Pat" Scollard, Paramount; Charles O'Brien,
Loew's; Henry C. Kaufman, Columbia; Major
Leslie Thompson, RKO; Sam Schneider.
Warner Bros., and Harry Buckley. United
Artists.
Realart Franchise Men
Attend N.Y. Sales Meet
NEW YORK—Budd Rogers, executive vicepresident
and general sales manager of Realart
Pictures, Inc., presided over a meeting
of franchise holders and home office executives
January 5 to discuss sales problems
the Federal Mediation Service was scheduled
to meet with a negotiating committee
and new releases.
for the major distributors at the Warner Others who attended were: Lee Goldberg
home office January 10 in another attempt
of Cincinnati and Indianapolis, Joe Levine
to come to an agreement on a new wage
of Boston and New Haven, Manny Stutz of
Cleveland. Sam Krellberg of New York, Albany
and Buffalo, Bernie Mills of Washington,
Nelson Wax of Philadelphia, Carroll
Puciato, Realart general manager, and Bill
Schulman, director of advertising and publicity.
Roy Winton, 66, Dies
NEW YORK—Roy W. Winton, 66, organizer
and managing director of the Amateur
Cinema League, Inc., and former editor of
Movie Makers, the league's monthly publication,
died January 1 at Post-Graduate Medical
hospital.
association of which they are members.
Among those invited to the January 13
meeting are Arthur H. Lockwood, TOA president;
Ted R. Gamble, TOA chairman of the
board; Herman M. Levy, TOA general counsel;
Leonard H. Goldenson and S. H. Fabian
of the TOA executive committee; Harry
Brandt, ITOA president; George Skouras
and William A. White of Skouras Theatres;
Harry Lamont, president of the TOA unit in
the Albany exchange area; Leonard L. Rosenthal,
general counsel, Albany TOA; Merritt
A. Kyser, president of the MPTOA of New
York state: Saul J. Ullman, Samuel . E.
Rosenblatt, William C. Smalley, William
Benton, Sid Dwore, George J. Gammel, Vincent
R. McFaul, Charles Smakwitz and J. J.
O'Leary.
The following MMPTA directors will attend:
Leo Brecher, president; Fred J.
Schwartz, chairman of the board; Oscar A.
Doob, Russell V. Downing, Emanuel Frisch.
Harry Goldberg, Julius Joelson, David T.
Katz, Malcolm Kingsberg, Samuel Rinzler,
Samuel Rosen, Edward N. Rugoff, Solomon
M. Strausberg and Robert M. Weitman. Also
attending will be Orrin G. Judd and Murray
I. Gurfein, general counsel, and Phillips.
William A. Johnston Dies;
Former Film Paper Owner
NEW YORK—William Allen Johnston, 72,
retired president and publisher of the Motion
Picture News, which went out of existence
in 1931, died December 30 at Monroe,
N. Y.
Johnston was born at Palatine Bridge, N.
Y., and was graduated from Union college
in 1897.
After holding various newspaper and magazine
positions, he came to New York and
founded the Exhibitors Times in 1913. That
same year this was merged with the Motion
Picture News. Several years later the
News was in turn merged with Motion Picture
Herald.
In 1928. while he was president and publisher
of the News, Johnston became president
of the Angus Co., publisher of Spur and
the Plumbing and Heating Contractors Trade
Journal, and a director of the F. M. Lupton
Publishing Co., El Comercio and DeForest
Phonofilm Co. He also was a partner in
Danforth & Marshall, stock brokerage firm.
Paul A. Johnston, a son; Miss Allene Johnston,
a daughter: Mrs. Arthur C. Sticht, a
sister, and a granddaughter survive.
Hirst Circuit Founder
Dies at Palm Beach. Fla.
PHILADELPHIA—Isadore Hirst, 50. founder
of a theatre chain with headquarters
here, died recently at Palm Beach, Fla. Hirst
founded Hirst Enterprises, with headquarters
in the Fox building, operators of the
Troc, Garden and Auditorium theatres here,
and several others throughout the east and
midwest. He was a member of the Variety
Club, the Golden Slipper Square club and
Masonic lodge.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8. 1949
49

. . R.
. . Diana
. . Laraine
. . Maria
. . Jules
. . Dorothy
. . Ava
. .
PARAMOUNT VETERANS— Adolph Zukor, chairman of the board of Paramount
Pictures, inducts new members into Paramount's celebrated 20-Year club. Left to
iie:ht: William R. Hecht. Simeon Anderson, May Corkery, James L. Brown (rear).
Zukor. Thomas McSwecney (only member from New York branch). Martha Vargas
and Clifton Oswald.
BROADWAY
£J.ael Sullivan, TOA executive director, was
scheduled to leave over the weekend for
a number of Washington appointments, including
a speech January 10 before the
Washington Variety tent . Day
and her husband, Leo Durocher, arrived from
Santa Monica . Lynn, co-star of
Every Girl Should Be Married" 1RKO1,
and John C. Lindsay were married one week
before Christmas and arrived here December
30 for a honeymoon.
.
Clyde R. Keith. New York engineering
representative for the electrical research
products division of Western Electric, is in
Hollywood. He expects to return about January
17 M. Savini, president of Astor
Pictures Corp.. went to Hollywood where
he will confer with Berle Adams about more
Louis Jordan features and will supervise the
sixth Sunset Carson feature. Savini was recently
made a vice-president of Lion Television
Pictures Corp. and will also be in on
video
talks.
Al Horwits, Universal-International eastem
publicity manager, and Charles Simonelli.
eastern exploitation manager, went to
Cincinnati to join Irving Brecher. producer-
NEW MIRROPHONIC SOUND
JOE
HORNSTEIN, Inc.
830 Ninth At.
director of "The Life of Riley," on plans
for the first showings of the film in March.
They were to talk to officials of Procter &
Gamble, sponsors of the radio show of the
same name, NBC and advertising agencies.
Jules Lapidus. Warner Bros, eastern and
Canadian district sales manager, spent several
days in Pittsburgh and Cleveland .
Alfred Crown, vice-president and foreign
sales manager of Samuel Goldwyn Productions,
has gone to London to confer with
RKO sales executive on European sales
plans for "Enchantment" and other Goldwyn
films . . . Cy Keen, Radio Corp. of America
theatre service company representative, has
returned from Miami where he watched a
large-screen theatre televising of the Orange
Bowl game . Montez. here for the
opening of "Siren of Atlantis," is scheduled
to leave for Paris January 24 to join Orson
Welles in a new film venture.
Mr. and Mrs. Seth Flax became the parents
of a daughter. Jane Pearis, born December
31. The father is in the Eagle Lion
pressbook department ... Ed Cahill. president
of the RCA Service Co.: W. L. Jones,
vice-president in charge of engineering products
service, and Carl Johnson, theatre service
division manager, have returned to Camden
headquarters after a business visit here.
H. M. Richey, MGM exhibitor relations
head, plans to leave
Bermuda vacation
in a few days for a
Gardner, MGM
star, came here en route to her home in
Raleigh. N. C. Blanchard of
the MGM coast publicity office arrived for
a vacation Weill, president of
Masterpiece Productions, is back from Los
Angeles and San Francisco, where he set up
circuit deals for "Stagecoach" and "The Long
Voyage Home" Producer Louis De Roche -
mont is here from his Newington. N. H..
home. His son. Louis De Rochemont jr.. Is
with him.
Nizer Named to Committee
NEW YORK—Louis Nizer. attorney, lecturer
and author, has been named chairman
of the citizen's committee of the National
Council to Combat Blindness which will
benefit by an all-star show to be presented
at the Century Theatre March 27.
Brotherhood Plans
Progress Rapidly
NEW YORK—Progress reports on the
Brotherhood week drive, February 20-27.
were presented Thursday at a luncheon at
the Waldorf Astoria. J. Robert Rubin, chairman
of the amusements division, presided.
Ned E. Depinet predicted the observance
would be the "greatest Brotherhood week
demonstration in 15 years." and then called
for reports by co-chairmen.
Gil Golden, advertising director for Warners,
presented drafts of advertising and promotional
material. Among these was a onesheet
that was warmly praised. Another was
a card which can be used in connection with
window cards. The catchline is "No Bigotry
in America."
National Screen Service has agreed to print
the material and distribute it to exchange
centers. All the material will be given to exhibitors
without charge.
It also was reported that the newsreels
have prepared inserts for their reels. There
will be a broadcast over the ABC network
in February.
Spyros P. Skouras described the cooperation
of the newsreel units. Ed Lachman, national
co-chairman of the exhibitors' committee
with Gael Sullivan, reported that he
had named regional chairmen in all exchange
centers for Allied groups, and Sullivan made
a similar report for TOA affiliates. Gus
Eyssell. chairman for exchanges in New York,
told of meetings he has held and said pledges
of full cooperation had been received from all
metropolitan groups.
Maxwell Alderman of New Haven, S. H.
Fabian. Charles M. Reagan and C. J. "Pat"
Scollard told of what has been accomplished
in the distribution and exhibition fields, and
Herman Robbins. head of NSS. promised that
all of the advertising material his firm is
contributing would be out on time. He said
17,437 advertising kits would be distributed.
Among others present were: Jack Cohn,
Rev. Everett Clinchy. James M. Jerauld.
Charles E. Lewis. Martin Quigley. Sid Retchetnik.
Leon J. Bamberger. Sam Shain. Moe
Wax. Dave Bader. Charles Hacker. Don
Mersereau. Ernie Emerling. Mel Konecoff,
William White. S. L. Goldsmith. William J.
German and Al Picoult.
Upstate N. Y. Code
For Popping Corn
Albany—The board of standards and
appeals has approved the new code
for public places of assembly in upstate
New York, effective May 1, permitting
popping corn in theatres under
controlled conditions. Copies are
expected to be printed for distribution
in February.
It was originally hoped that the code
would be ready by the fall of 194".
Delays were encountered because of
changes made with the insertion of a
paragraph outlawing popping corn in
theatres. Exhibitors objected to this at
a hearing in New York last summer.
The board, of standards has been
studying revising the code since August.
The present code was adopted in
the early 1920s. Governor Dewey's
message to the legislature last Wednesday
recommended modernized codes.
SO BOXOFTICE January 8. 1949

—
—
—
B'way First Runs Big
Despite Snowstorm
NEW YORK—Only the heavy snowstorm
on New Year's eve kept the majority of
Broadway's first run houses from going to
near-record grosses because of the advanced
prices for that night. Business was above
normal for the balance of the holiday weekend,
however.
Leading them all was "Words and Music."
in its fourth week at the Radio City Music
Hall, which had waiting lines even on the
snowy New Year's eve. Others which did
better business than over the Christmas holiday
period were "Every Girl Should Be Married,"
in its second week at the Capitol, "That
Wonderful Urge," in its second week at the
Roxy, and "The Paleface," in its third week
at the Paramount.
"Hamlet." in its 14th week at the Park
Avenue. "The Red Shoes." in its 11th week
at the Bijou, and "Joan of Arc," in its fourth
week at the Pulton, all two-a-day films, went
to new highs because of extra performances.
"Adventures of Don Juan," in its second week
at the Strand, and "Enchantment," in its
second week at the Astor, also held up well,
but the lesser films dropped off.
(Average Is 100)
Ambassador— Jungle Jim (Col) 100
Aslor—Enchantment (RKO), 2nd wk 13b
Btjou-The Red Shoes (EL), 11th wk. ol two-a-day .145
Capitol—Every Girl Should Be Married (RKO). plus
stage show. 2nd wk 130
Criterion—Rogues' Regiment (Col), 3rd wk 90
Hilton—Joan oi Arc (RKO), 4th wk. of two-a-day 140
Globe—Whiplash (WB). 2nd wk 9U
Gotham Angel on the Amazon (Rep), 2nd wk 8b
Maytair—One Sunday Afternoon (WB), 2nd wk. . 75
Paramount—The Paleface (Para), plus stage show,
3rd wk lib
Park Avenue—Hamlet (U-I), 14th wk. ot
Radio Clt^Music Hall—Words and Music (MGM).
plus stage show, 4th wk 141)
Rialto Pardon My Sarong (U-I), Abbott and Costello
in the Navy (U-I), reissues Ill)
Rivoli—The Snake Pit (20th-Fox), 9th wk Kb
Roxy—That Wonderful Urge (20th-Fox), plus stage
show, 2nd wk ........ 12o
State—Force of Evil (MGM), 2nd wk 140
Strand—Adventures of Don Juan (WB), plus stage
show, 2nd wk I.
Sutton—Blanche Fury (EL). 6th wk 90
Victoria—Joan of Arc (RKO), 8th wk ot continuous
Business Picks Up in Buffalo
With 'Paleface' Top Grosses
BUFFALO—Business picked up here with
"The Paleface" leading the parade. This town
likes Bob Hope. "Words and Music" was
average at the Buffalo. "That Wonderful
Urge" flopped in a second moveover week at
the Hippodrome.
Buffalo—Words and Music (MGM) 100
Great Lakes—The Paleface (Para) 127
Hippodrome— That Wonderful Urge (20th-Fox). 2nd
Lafayette You Gotta Stay Happy
the River (U-I)
Teck—Hamlet (U-I), 2nd d. t wk.
Paramount Int'l Carries Trademark
To the Far Corners of the Earth
NEW YORK— In marketing Paramount'.,
1949 product, under its old-time showmanship
campaign which calls for announcement,
definite releasing and merchandising
of the year's film schedule, worldwide distribution
will be directed by George Weltne;-
and the Paramount International organization
of which he is president.
It was under the pioneering of Adolph
Zukor that Paramount established its foreign
distribution system many years ago
Under Weltner's administration the worldwide
organization has placed the Paramount
trademark in virtually every section of the
is world. It under this subsidiary that the
company's business is carried on in all countries
except the United States.
To carry out this program, Weltner has
Ed Wolpin
Bernard Goodwin
Not as widely known as Paramount
executives in production and distribution,
but nevertheless playing a role in an important
phase of the company's activities
are Bernard Goodwin and Ed Wolpin.
Goodwin is vice-president and general
manager of Paramount Music and Famous
Music Corps, while Wolpin is general
professional manager of the corporations.
At Paramount, the song
writers are a busy lot with some the of
best known composers and writing teams
in the business engaged in turning out
hit tunes for the films.
Korlton—Joan of
Arc (RKO), 2nd wk
Keith—Mexican Hayride (U-I)..
Trade Strong in Baltimore;
'Words and Music' Is Tops
'Yellow Sky' Sets Record
At Quaker City Fox
BALTIMORE—Pleasant weather for the
holidays saw a week
PHILADELPHIA—
New Year's eve in down-
All existing records were
shattered at the Fox Theatre here as "Yellow
'own theatres for midnight shows, with
strong trade over the weekend. "Words and
Sky" piled up a 240 per cent gross to set a
new house record. Openers at downtown
Music" packed Loews Century while "Every
first
Girl
runs started with a bang and holdovers did
Should Be Married" and the second
equally well. "When My Baby Smiles at Me" week of "The Paleface" were runnersup.
in the second week of its second run a-' the
Words Mi;.. 142
Arcadia and "Adventures of Don Juan" at the
P lu
Mastbaum tied for second place with 180 per Si unify—One Sunday Afternoon (WB), 2nd '
cent.
Kei h's—The Paleface P^ra), 2nd wk.
Town—Every Girl Should Be Married (RKO)
Arcadia When My Baby Smiles at Me
New—Itol Wonderful Urge (20th-Fox), 2nd '
'
(20th-rox), 2nd wk.. 2nd run
Maytair—Belle Starr's Daughter (Rep). 2nd
Boyd—The Kissing Bandit (MGM) 10b Valencia Rogues' Regiment (U-I). 2nd wk
GEORGE WELTNER
become one of most widely traveled men in
the ccuntry, and Paramount's most-traveled
executive. He has circled the globe,
crossed the Atlantic four additional times,
and in the last 14 months has surveyed countries
in this hemisphere, both north and
south of the equator. He is abroad nearly
50 per cent of the time.
Executives with Weltner in the international
organization are: J. E. Perkins, chairman
and managing director of Paramount
Film Service, Ltd., London; John B. Nathan,
headquartered in Paris, general manager for
continental Europe, North Africa and the
Middle East: Harry Hunter of Sydney, managing
director of activities in Australia and
New Zealand; A. L. Prachatt, Mexico City,
division manager for Latin America, and
F. C. Henry, division manager for the Far
East, with headquarters in Manila.
MGM Gives Wolf Six More
Speaking Assignments
NEW YORK—Maurice N. Wolf, assistant
to H. M. Richey, MGM exhibitor relations
head, has been assigned additional speaking
engagements. They are: January 13.
Rotary club, Asheville, N. C; January 14, a
joint meeting of business clubs. Hickory,
N. C; January 17. Rotary club, Columbia.
S. C: January 20, Civitan club, Raleigh.
N. C: January 30-31. convention Northern
and Southern Carolina Theatre Owners,
Charlotte. N. C.
Joseph Dies in Miami
NEW YORK—Morris Joseph, former New
Haven branch manager for Universal Pictures,
died in Miami December 31 after a
long illness. He retired from Universal in
1941 after being with the company 28 years
His wife and daughter survive.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8. 1949
51

. . Joe
,
By
Along New York's Film
WALTER WALDMAN .
Row
gERNARD G. KRANZE, Film Classics sales
chief, will be toastmaster at the annual
installation of Motion Picture Bookers Club
officers January 24. The event will take
place at Tavern-On-The-Green . . . Samuel
Rinzler, head of the Randforce circuit, will
be named an honorary member.
New officers of Film Exchange Employes
Union, Local B51. IATSE, will be installed
January 10 at the Hotel Claridge. They are:
Maurice Van Praag, president; Hilbert Starr,
vice-president; Conrad Forschner, business
agent; Gerard Lee, recording and corresponding
secretary; Harold Marenstein, secretarytreasurer,
and August Kubart, sergeant-atarms.
Members of the new Local B51 executive
board to be installed are: Harry Goldberg,
Leonard Brooks, John Buvalik. Jack Lewin.
Josef Rosenthal, Edward Gentner, Harry
Bernstein and Alfred Kubart . . . The board
of trustees will consist of Milton Van Praag.
Anna Mancuso and Catherine Clark.
.
Jack Bowen, MGM district manager, headed
the delegation of exchange personnel at
the anniversary memorial mass held January
5 for the late Louis A. Johnson, former
head of the film room and past president
of B51 Melody, who has retired as
fire department inspector, assigned Filmrow,
to
visited the exchanges to say
goodbye.

. . Eilleen
. . The
. . Vera
. . Leonard
. .
. .
. . . Helen
. . . Tom
. . Jack
. .
. . Jay
WASHINGTON Washington Variety Winds Up Year
£Jael Sullivan will be speaker at the Variety
Club installation luncheon January 10 at
the Statler hotel. In addition to the installation
ceremonies, plaques will be given to six
past chief barkers of Tent 11. They are
Frank Boucher, 1948; Nathan Golden, 1947;
J. E. Fontaine, 1946: Fred S. Kogod, 1945;
John Allen, 1944, and Sam Wheeler, 1943 .
Accepted by the membership committee of
Tent 11 are Herbert Scott Young, son of Sara
S. Young, 20th Century-Fox, and Lee Maxfield,
owner-manager of Lee Maxfield orchestras.
Happy birthday to the following barkers:
Lawrence Heller, Jack Safer, Alvin L. Newmyer,
January 9; Fred Beiersdorf, January
10; Fred Burka. Hunter Perry, Henry Scholz,
January 12; Sidney Seidenman, Sam Wheeler.
Ben Baylor jr., January 15 . . . Gordon
Contee is now well again and back at his
desk at 20th-Fox . Atkins, formerly
with UA. now is billing at 20th-Fox.
The Anthony Mutos enjoyed fish for Christmas
dinner. Tony had a hunch that Friday
was his lucky day so he went out in his boat
and caught a maximum-limit rockfish. Quite
a feat for the dead of winter. Mrs. Muto is
doing a hangup job out at Walter Reed hospital
and will handle the transportation of
war veterans to the inaugural parade .
Inspector Catherine Cook was badly burned
when a percolator exploded in her face.
Hello girl Mary Lou Erickson is back at the
switchboard after a week's absence on account
of illness .
Olivier has returned after
a week's vacation and booker Anne Griffin
is back from Minneapolis, where she spent a
week visiting her folks ... All salesmen have
returned to their posts after enjoying the
traditional Christmas-New Year's holiday vacations
... A Columbia booker, Earle Taylor,
has resigned and moved to Miami Beach
with his wife . . . Mel Harwood is at Warners
making a routine audit.
Wade Pearson, Neighborhood Theatres, is
president of the Arlington Rotary club . . .
Buck Stover's sons have returned to thenrespective
schools. Robert Lee attends Concordia
High school at Fort Wayne, Ind„ and
Frank B. attends Valparaiso University at
Valparaiso, Ind.
Joseph Bason of IATSE, was here from
New York to install the newly elected officers
of Local F13 at the installation dinner dance
at the Continental hotel January 8. Present
also were many of the branch managers and
office managers and their wives.
The Charles Stofbergs attended a surprise
party Monday evening given for Senator and
Mrs. Clinton Anderson at the Shoreham
hotel . . . Ditto Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Muto
. . . Little Jane Stofberg was ill with pneumonia
. Ben Lusts entertained Mrs.
Lust's parents from New York . . . Corrine
Cohan, daughter of the Joe Cohans, 20th-
Fox. has resigned her position in New York
and has returned to Washington . . . Mike
Leventhal's mother is very ill . . . Sympathy
to Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Coblenz in the death
of Coblenz's father in Catonsville. Md„ recently
... At Screen Guild, Ross Wheeler,
was off with pneumonia.
Employes at the New and St. Mary's theatres
in Leonardtown, Md., were given a
bonus at Christmas . and Julian
With Total of $55,000 to Charity
Scene at the Washington Variety luncheon in the Willard hotel when welfare
chairman Fred Kogod presented checks to local institutions. Left to right: Charles
M. Fyfe, Boys club; Alfred A. McGarraghy, Merrick Boys camp; Mrs. Laura D.
Houghteling, Home for Incurables; James H. Lemon, Children's hospital; Al Benson,
welfare committeeman; Jake Flax, chief barker; C. J. Mack, Merrick Boys camp;
Kogod; Frank M. Boucher, past chief barker; Dr. Sylvan Danzansky and Eugene
Kramer of the welfare committee.
WASHINGTON—Variety Club Tent 11
rounded up its 1948 season with the presentation
of checks totaling nearly $16,000 to
five charitable organizations. Fred S. Kogod,
chairman of the welfare committee for the
local tent, revealed that the largest check,
$10,400, went to Children's hospital for the
final payment of a $31,200 pledge to the
building fund.
Another check for $2,500 was presented to
the Metropolitan Police Boys club, $1,000 was
given to the Home for Incurables for an
electrocardiograph machine and other items
to complete a diagnostic clinic, $1,000 went
to the Merrick Boys camp to complete a
$2,500 payment for a Variety cabin at the
camp and the final $1,000 was given to the
Boys club of Washington.
The presentations of the $16,000 rounded
out an active year in which more than $55,000
was earmarked for Variety charities. Some
of the expenditures for 1948 included shut-in
screenings 52 weeks a year at local hospitals,
homes and orphanages, $5,050; dental clinic
and plaque at Emergency hospital, $4,482.81;
glaucoma clinic at the Episcopal Eye, Ear
Gordon came in from Newport News to buy
and book for their Palace, Wythe and Stuart
theatres . Dinan, 20th-Fox salesman
out of Philadelphia, was in town . . . RKO
cashier Agnes Turner was back at her desk
after being hospitalized over the holidays at
the Suburban hospital in Bethesda.
'
John Broumas reports that the Chadwick
Theatre, Suffolk, Va., closed for several
months, was to reopen January 3 . . . Ann
Griffin. 20th Century-Fox. spent a week's
vacation in Minneapolis visiting her family
Horvath went to Buffalo to visit
her folks for the Christmas holidays .
Florence Cohen spent several days in New
York.
RKO cashier Agnes Turner, who has been
hospitalized for the last several weeks, has
returned home and is expected back at her
desk soon . . . Sally Zeoli. Columbia, left
Garfield hospital and will convalesce for a
couple of weeks before returning to her desk
McCaskey, Williamsburg Theatre,
and Throat hospital, $2,500; two resuscitators
for Garfield hospital, $1,510; Community
Chest, $1,500; equipment and repairs
for shut-in institutions, $1,139.30; contribution
toward a memorial for Father Flanagan
of Boys Town, $600; Will Rogers Memorial
hospital, $500: aid to needy individuals,
$550.82; equipment for Crippled Children's
Service, Arlington county, $460: National
Conference of Christians and Jews, $250, and
Gallinger hospital children's Christmas party.
$150. There were many other lesser expenditures
and, in addition, Variety set aside
$20,000 for a permanent Variety Club charity
in the community.
The 1949 season for Variety Club was to
open officially January 10 with the installation
of officers at the Statler hotel. Variety
celebrated the beginning of the New Year
with a party in the clubrooms complete with
all the traditional trimmings of hats, noisemakers,
music, entertainment, dancing and
an early morning breakfast. Herman Paris,
Herb Sachs and Leon Makover handled the
arrangements with Wade Pearson, entertainment
committee chairman.
Williamsburg, Va., went to New York to confer
with Gus Eyssell.
John O'Leary, Charley Hurley and Joe
Kronman were responsible for the fine party
given for the children of Variety Club members
in the Willard hotel. Refreshments were
served and each child received a beautiful
toy. The afternoon was rounded out with a
vaudeville show.
Paramount's Max Joice reports that Al
O'Eth represented Paramount News at the
Gator Bowl football game between Clemson
College and University of Missouri at Jacksonville
on New Year's day . . . Former booker
Pat Newbury, on a leave the last few months,
has returned to Paramount as booker at the
Cincinnati branch . Carmody of the
Evening Star the other day featured in his
film column the news that, although "The
Emperor Waltz" was the most sophisticated
film made in Hollywood in 1948. it was chosen
in the Country Gentleman poll as rural
America's best film of the year.
January 8, 1949 53

Reading Theafre
Manager Collects
Historical Theatrical Treasures
READING. PA.—The history of 200 years
of the American theatre has been accumulated
in what is believed to be the world's
largest private collection of theatrical treasures,
owned by Paul E. Glase. local theatre
manager, who describes his hobby as "of
and on the theatre."
Glase, manager of Fabian-Wilmer & Vincent's
Embassy here and nationally recognized
authority on theatrical history, began
his hobby in 1901 and recently, because of
the huge collection, was the subject of a
full-page spread in the Reading Eagle.
The last inventory on the collection, taken
about ten years ago, showed 60,000 programs
and playbills alone had been indexed.
Now Glase believes there are about 75,000.
He has a library of 1.000 volumes on the
stage, screen, radio, concert and circus fields.
Mabel Normand. Ford Sterling, Fred Mace,
Mae Marsh. Alfred Paget. Claire MacDowell,
Charles Hill Mailes and others.
Among the other memorabilia of the theatre.
Glase has what is believed to be the
oldest American playbill in existence. It advertises
the
His motion
appearance of
picture file includes a complete
index of all subjects made
John Hodkinson
ui "Rule a Wife and Have a Wife" at the
since 1908
Charles Theatre, Charleston, S. when the longest film was
C, and is
a 1.000-foot reel.
dated Feb. 21. 1905.
He owns a few old single-reel films made
There are
by
many autographs
American
and letters
Biograph. Vitagraph, Lubin, Kalem.
from stars such as Ellen
Terry.
Edison, Essanay and Selig. "The
Sarah
Informer,"
Bernhardt and Joseph Jefferson
an original print made in November
and 300 lithographs which were used in
1912
store
and directed and produced by David Wark
windows and other displays from 1878
to 1890.
Griffith several years before his "The Birth
of a Nation," is among
A bill of lading also is in
the
the collection.
reels in the
It
Glase collection. The one-reeler runs
was dated Dec. 22, 1741 for a shipment of
for
flour on the sloop
ten minutes and the cast included Mary
"Charming Sally," the
ship which on its return voyage, in 1752,
brought the first company of English actors
Pickford. Walter Miller, Henry B. Walthall,
Jack Pickford as a boy, Harry Carey, Ralph
Lewis, Dorothy and Lillian Gish and Christy
Cabanne.
Glase also has reels featuring Arthur Johnson,
"Broncho Billy" Anderson, Mack Sennett.
Max Linder. Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle.
to America. They opened at Williamsburg,
Va.. in "The Merchant of Venice."
Tour of Skouras Circuit
Begun by Frank Luther
NEW YORK—Frank Luther, radio broadcaster,
starts a series of personal appearances
in Skouras Theatres January 8 at the Park
Plaza, the Bronx.
Decca Records and the Maltex Co., sponsors
of his Saturday morning show for children
over WNBC, are promoting the theatre
appearances with dealer tieups and lobby
displays.
The Park Plaza has distributed 50.000 folders,
and 11 other Skouras houses are running
trailers advertising the Luther theatre
schedule. WNBC also is promoting the personal
appearance tour.
Luther attended a luncheon Thursday,
January 6, for Parent-Teacher Ass'ns and
community leaders at which he discussed
educational features of his programs. He
also told of his plans to honor an outstanding
local Boy Scout on each program.
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Warner Theatres Party
ALBANY—A gift order for a combination
radio and phonograph was presented to
Charles A. Smakwitz. Warner zone manager,
at the annual Christmas party in Jack's
restaurant for employes of the upstate zone
offices and Warner houses. Smakwitz acted
as master of ceremonies and the certificate
was handed to him by Al LaFlamme, manager
of the Strand. About 40 persons attended
the party, among them Joe Stpwell,
manager of the Lincoln. Troy, one of the
out-of-towners in attendance.
Rank Closes Western Office
HOLLYWOOD—The J. Arthur Rank Organization
has withdrawn its representation
in the film colony with the shuttering of its
offices at Universal-International and the
departure of Reginald Allen, who had represented
the Rank interests here for the last
three years. Allen indicated Rank's future
American business would be transacted
through the organization's New York offices.
| ST CLASS DISTRIBUTION FOR
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ATLANTA: Astor, W. M. Richardson
(3) 1G3 Walton St.. NW
DALLAS: Jenkins & Bourgeois, Astor
(1) Harwood & Jackson Streets
NEW ORLEANS: Dixie. R. A. (Bob) Kelly
BOXOFFICE 8. 1949

N. J. Allied io Fight
Censorship Threat
NEW YORK—Means of combating a censorship
bill almost certain to be introduced
in the New Jersey State legislature after it
convenes January 17 will be discussed by the
Allied Theatre Owners of New Jersey at a
meeting at the Stacy-Trent hotel, Trenton,
January 17. A threat of municipal taxes on
admissions also will be considered. Edward
Lachman, president, and George Gold, head
of the legislative committee, will preside.
Support for a censorship bill which would
authorize formation of community boards
arose after the showings of so-called sex
films not made by Hollywood producers.
Allied
feels it would be unwise and unfair to
expose the regular run of films to censorship
because of a few films that have been
criticized.
Allied meets each year during the session
of the legislature. Last year the legislature
voted down a censorship bill.
Adolph Zukor's Birthday
Finds Him on the Job
NEW YORK—Adolph Zukor, chairman of
the board of Paramount, observed his 76th
birthday January 7 by working in his office
during the day and spending the evening
at home with his family. He has been in
the industry 36 years. He came to this country
from Ricse, Hungary, at the age of 16
with $25 sewn in the lining of his coat, got
a $2-a-\veek job in a fur store and four years
later owned a fur business of his own in
Chicago.
Zukor entered the entertainment field in
the early 1900s in New York by investing in
penny arcades, became a film producer and
distributor and formed associations which
world.
Siritzky Will Distribute
'Grand Illusion' in U.S.
NEW YORK—Siritzky International Pictures
has secured the U.S. and Canadian
distribution rights to "Grand Illusion," prewar
picture directed by Jean Renoir, from
P. Albert. The picture, which stars Jean
Gabin, Pierre Fresnay and Erich von Stroheim,
will open at the Elysee Theatre late
in January.
The picture played a few American dates
before 1941, but. during the war. its distribution
was stopped throughout the world. It
has recently been shown in England, France
and Belgium and. for the first time, in Germany
and Italy, where it was previously not
shown for political reasons.
Conciliation Hope Voiced for 1949
the temporary TOA-sponsored three-man .
ALBANY— Harry Lamont, chairman of "That is the reason I prefer to use the
term 'meeting' rather than 'hearing.' In
conciliation board for the Albany area, the first case filed here the exhibitor presented
expressed hope this week that 1949 would
his side at the first meeting. The
will see conciliation firmly established as a distributor offer his side, I assume,
method of settling distributor-exhibitor
disputes.
Commenting on the local board and the
over-all conciliation plan. Lamont termed
it "a test of fairness on the part of exhibitors
and distributors."
"The conciliation should be successful,"
Lamont said, "if exhibitors are fair in the
complaints they make and if distributors
are fair in accepting the adjustments recommended
by the conciliators."
"Conciliation has no legal force," he
added. "Neither party is bound by the
recommendations of the conciliation
board. The distributors have agreed, in
effect, with national TOA to accept conciliation
board recommendations. We expect
to receive cooperation from their
local offices and branches.
"We wish to stay away from legalistic
language and procedure," he continued.
Tanney, head of S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp.
Recently S.O.S. sold an Auricon Pro 16mm
soundfilm camera to the Beacon Hill sanitarium
where experiments in "psychodrama"
are being conducted by Dr. Jacob L. Moreno.
Relatively new as a psychiatric treatment,
psychodrama has taken patients from the
traditional couch in a dimly lit room and
put them on a well-lighted stage where the
subjects "act out" their difficulties before a
concealed camera. Besides the therapeutic
benefits derived from this acting out, the
films provide an accurate record for the
psychiatrist, and also facilitate the teaching
of the technique.
led to the birth of Paramount. His name is
known to millions of movie patrons throughout
the world. On Jan. 10, 1947 Mr. and Mayfair Sets Two Films
Mrs. Zukor celebrated their 50th wedding
anniversary and received thousands of congratulatory
NEW YORK—Two new pictures have been
set for the Mayfair Theatre, currently play-
messages from all parts of
the
ing Warner Bros.' "One Sunday Afternoon."
They are "The Return of October" ,
which opens January 8 and "My Dear Secretary,"
Harry Popkin production for United
Artists release, which will follow later in the
month.
at the second meeting. There may be a
meeting of both parties the third time."
Lamont said the area TOA unit would
forward certain information on each case
to national TOA headquarters in New
York. A technique of handling cases of
keeping records is being developed.
"No publicity will be given to complaints
until recommendations have been
made by the conciliation board," Lamont
said. "The trade press can be of great
assistance in publicizing the recommendations
and what action is taken on them.
The conciliation board naturally hopes the
distributors will agree to the recommendations.
We wish to have this publicized.
on the other hand, the distributor does
If,
not agree, we would like to make this
known. What other exhibitors will do
about conciliation depends largely upon
what results fellow complainants achieve."
Goldwyn, Lesser Pictures
To Be Tradeshown by RKO
NEW YORK—RKO will
tradeshow Samuel
Goldwyn's "Enchantment," starring David
Niven, Teresa Wright. Farley Granger and
Evelyn Keyes, in all exchange centers January
11. The picture is not scheduled for general
release until March.
RKO will also tradeshow Sol Lesser's "Tarzan's
Magic Fountain," starring Lex Barker,
in all exchange centers January 18, except
in Cincinnati, where it will be shown January
17. The picture will be generally released
in February.
Theatre Artist Is Dead
PHILADELPHIA— Harry Brodsky, artist
who specialized in theatre decoration, died
here recently at the age of 64. He had been
active in the theatrical art world for the
past 35 years, and had decorated many of
the city's independent theatres. He is survived
by his wife, two sons, two daughters
and two sisters.
Motion Pictures Used
In Psychiatric Work
NEW YORK—A new and human application
of motion pictures in the treatment of
the mentally ill has been advocated by J. A.
FIELD AUDITORS MEET—MGM's field auditors confer with home office
executives at the annual session at the Hotel Astor, New York City. January 3
through January 6. Seated, left to right, are: Lawrence J. Callahan, Charles Bell,
Harry Simons, John J. Ash, Charles Fogle, MGM's roving maintenance supervisors;
Alan F. Cummings, in charge of exchange operations; Harold Postman, his assistant;
Oliver Broughton; Richard A. Harper, home office; Edward Urschel, Williard Gillilan
and Carl Gentzel.
January 8, 1949

January
More Giveaways in Small Towns
Seen in 7949 by Harry Lamont
ALBANY—Harry Lamont. successful
small
town exhibitor and drive-in operator, predicted
this week that
1949 would see little
change in motion picture
business over the
preceding year.
"I do think that
there will be more
games and giveaways,
however." Lamont said.
"In fact. I am adding
bingo on T ue s d a y
nights in Philmont and
Greenville. We are
just completing a suc-
Harry Lamont cessful bicycle giveaway
in a tieup with eight local merchants
and I've had a dish giveaway in Philmont
for some time."
Lamont said he believed giveaways were
returning to small town situations because
"there are not enough good pictures being
made for three bills weekly. Too many pictures
have been sold on preferred playing
Frank C. Walker Awarded
Medal From Notre Dame
NEW YORK—Frank C. Walker, former
postmaster general and executive of the
Comerford Theatres circuit. Scranton, Pa.,
was awarded the Laetare medal for 1948 from
the Notre Dame College of Law. class of
1909, and received an honorary doctor of laws
degree from the university in 1934.
Two French Films Open
NEW YORK—A double program of French
films, both shown in the U.S. for the first
time, opened at Ambassador Theatre. Siritzky
International first run house, Januarj 7
The pictures. "Venus of Paris." starring
Vivian Romance, produced in 1939. and "Indiscretion,"
starring Pierre Blanchar, produced
in 1939. are distributed by Melvin
Hirsch of Crystal Pictures. Inc.
RCA Service Signs Five
CAMDEN. N. J.—The RCA Service Co. has
signed service contracts with five theatres
of the Sussman circuit. Pleasantville. N. Y.
The contract, which also provides for furnishing
of replacement parts, is with the
Rome Theatre. Pleasantville; Kisco, Kisco;
Cameo, Brewster; Amenia, Amenia. and
Academy. Wappinger Falls, all in New York
state.
Gulistan Wilton Theatre Carpet
JOE HORNSTEIN has it!
time that did not warrant such booking. The
news that some of the big companies are
preparing to make a group of low budgeters
is welcome.
More pictures are scheduled to be produced
in color." he added, "and that should
help. Color is a boxoffice aide. Then, too,
companies are becoming more explicit in
their announcements on releases. There has
been too much vagueness heretofore, announcing
a story without the cast or listing
the cast without a story."
Lamont said he also believed that admission
prices in 1949 "will remain as they are."
"I do look for food prices to drop this
year but industry operating costs will not
decrease." he said.
As for the drive-in situation, Lamont.
owner of four ozoners and now building a
fifth near Kingston, said he did not believe
the airers needed newer pictures or better
runs.
"They are all right as they are," he commented.
INCORPORATIONS
—ALBANY—
Sanden Amusement Service: To conduct
business in amusement devices, etc.. in New-
York: $20,000. $100 par.
the University of Notre Dame at his home
Max Liebman Productions: Radio, motion
January 4. The medal, which is the American
counterpart of the Vatican's golden decoration
picture shows, television
York: 200 shares, no par.
broadcasts in Newby
for outstanding Catholics, was presented Movitel Techniques: Radio, television pic-
Cardinal Spellman at a ceremony preceding
tures in New York: 800 shares; Adolph H..
Central W.: Leon
Rosenthal, 230 Pk.
a dinner given by Walker.
Lilly
The Rev. John J. Cavanagh. president of
S.
T. Hurwitz. 43 W. 93rd St.
Notre Dame, read the citation. Walker is
the 66th Catholic layman to receive the university's
Teleconcert: To produce television, motion
pictures, etc.. in New York; 200 shares, no
annual award. He is a graduate of
par; Leopold Stokowski, 35 John St., Round
Hill. Greenwich. Conn.: Henry Leiser, 164
W. 79th St.
World Focus: To conduct a business in motion
pictures and entertainment in New
York: 200 shares, no par.
General Telefilm Network: To operate a
broadcasting business in New York: 749
shares. 249 preferred at $1,000 par, and 500
common at no par value; Samuel H. Cuff,
Chappaqua: Adam J. Young jr.. Forest Hills;
Charlotte Gallan.
Israelcap: To represent composers, publishers
and authors in Israel: 100 shares, no
par; Jedeiah Gerochov. Joseph Yasser and
Edward A. Norman.
Normandie Is Robbed
NEW YORK—The Normandie Theatre,
subsequent run class house which is used by
major film companies for many morning
tradeshowings. was held up January 2 by two
men who escaped with the day's receipts of
approximately $1,000. The men entered the
office of the manager, Anita Villamil. threatened
her with revolvers and forced her into
the projection room while they scooped the
receipts into a bag and escaped.
UA Financing Group
To Meet on Coast
NEW YORK—A special four-man subcommittee
of the United Artists board of
directors will meet with Mary Pickford and
Charles Chaplin. UA co-owners, in Hollywood
January 17 to d?scuss methods of securing
new capital to finance future product
for UA release. The committee, composed of
Charles Schwartz, E. C. Mills, Vitalis Chalif
and Harold Weill, is holding several meetings
in New York to draft proposals for the
financing. Schwartz and Mills represent
Chaplin, and Chalif and Weill represent Miss
Pickford.
Schlaifer to Announce
Future Plans Soon
NEW YORK—Charles Schlaifer. director of
advertising, publicity and exploitation for
20th Century-Fox, will announce his future
plans in a few weeks. He will leave the company
February 1. when Charles Einfeld officially
succeeds him.
Schlaifer stated at the time of his resignation
last November that he will have "future
associations" with Spyros P. Skouras and
20th-Fox. He has since told acquaintances
that he will go into business for himself.
One of the reports has been that Schlaifer
will organize his own advertising agency.
Another has been that he will handle 20th-
Fox national advertising in association with
the Kayton-Spiero agency, which has been
doing the job for years.
Although Einfeld will not take over officially
until February 1. he has been working
on forthcoming releases in the 20th-Fox advertising
and publicity office in California
since the beginning of December.
The home office staff has already met
Einfeld. He has held a conference with department
heads and key personnel.
Einfeld is expected in New York around
Januarv 15.
Bell, Excelsior Handle
Reissue of 'Freaks'
NEW YORK—Bell Pictures Corp. will <
tribute the reissue of "Freaks." originally re-
itan
leased by MGM in 1932. in the metropol
New York. Albany and Buffalo territories.
Excelsior Pictures Corp. has acquired the
distribution rights for "Freaks" for the entire
world except the U.S. and Canada. Excelsior
will also distribute "One Third of a
Nation" and "Back Door to Heaven," both
originally released by Paramount in 1939. in
foreign
territories.
dis-
RKO to Have Five Films
In Broadway First Runs
NEW YORK—When the RKO Palace reverts
to first runs with the opening of "The
Boy With Green Hair" January 12, RKO will
have pictures playing in five Broadway houses.
Sierra Pictures' "Joan of Arc" continues at
the Victoria and Fulton. Samuel Goldwyn's
-Enchantment" is at the Astor and "Every
Girl Should Be Married" at
the Capitol.
BOXOFFICE
:
8. 1949

. . And
TOA Board io Discuss
Albany Complaints
ALBANY—The Albany area TOA, acting
on a request by National President Arthur
Lockwood, has mailed letters to its members
asking for detailed information on complaints
about service, charges, etc., made by National
Screen Service, the information to be
forwarded to the TOA national committee
on NSS and to be discussed at a TOA directors
meeting in Washington January 28.
29. The letter was sent out a few days after
the local TOA unit had asked members to
forward complaints about National Screen,
or to bring them to a meeting here February
2, when George F. Dembow, vice-president
in charge of sales for NSS, and William B.
Brenner, in charge of operations, will speak.
The national TOA committee, according
to President Lockwood, seeks copies of recent
correspondence between members and
National Screen Service regarding complaints
about the quality of trailers and their commercial
advertising, torn posters, allegedly
excessive charges, a schedule of prices paid
for trailers and number of program changes
weekly, prices paid for posters, accessories
and other advertising. The price figures are
wanted in order that "fall and accurate comparisons
may be made with prices charged
in others sections of the country." Names
of persons will be withheld, if so desired,
when the complaint material is compiled.
Lockwood emphasized that "complaints
should be specific and not general in character."
The national TOA also desires "any
constructive suggestions as to how National
Screen service to your theatres could be improved."
The message concluded, "We would
like to have a thorough discussion of this subject
at our directors meeting in Washington."
Leonard L. Rosenthal, executive director
of the Albany TOA, who mailed both letters,
and Harry Lamont, temporary chairman, will
attend the Washington confab.
Liberty Presents First
Baltimore Theatre Video
BALTIMORE—First television pictures to
be shown in a theatre in this area were presented
at the Hiway here last week. The
pictures, televised at the Middle River Essex
Community children's Christmas party at
the Hiway, were previously presented over
station WMAR-TV and were shown at the
Hiway through the courtesy of the station.
The televised party was presented at each
show over New Year's weekend.
Manager Robert T. Marhenke acquired a
special lens and 16mm equipment with 1,000
watt light in order to project the film from
the projection booth to the 15x20-foot screen
of the theatre.
Astor Estate Buys Empire
NEW YORK—The William Waldorf Astor
estate has bought the Empire Theatre, at
40th street and Broadway, and the adjacent
office building from Jacob Freidus, real
estate operator, for a reported $850,000.
Freidus will continue to operate the Empire
on a five-year lease. The theatre was built
in 1892 at a cost of $500,000 and has housed
leading legitimate plays since. "Life With
Father" played there for five
With Mother" is current.
years and "Life
Upstate Theatres Suffer Losses
In
A/ew Year Storms and Floods
ALBANY—New Year's eve business in upstate
theatres took a sock on the jaw when
torrential rains, followed by freezing temperatures
and sleet caused widespread floods
and power failures, closing several theatres
and denting boxoffice receipts severely.
Patronage in some spots was said to have
been as much as 50 per cent below the 1948
figures.
Hotels, night clubs and other establishments
also felt the blow in cancellations of
New Year's eve reservations.
Largest house reported closed by the flood
was the 2,200-seat Troy Theatre in Troy.
Situated near the Hudson river, its heating
plant went out when water flooded the boiler
room. Operations were not resumed until
Sunday noon.
The Madison, class neighborhood house
here, was forced to close Friday afternoon
when the storm knocked down a nearby
power line. It reopened that night, however.
The Strand in Philmont was closed when
water flooded the boiler room and knocked
out a stoker. The village fire department
Lamont was forced to discontinue work on
a new drive-in near Kingston but said he
did not believe other open airers were damaged
by the storms. The Empire Raceways
at Menands, in the parking lot of which a
drive-in is under construction, was flooded.
The Rex and Ausable in Ausable Forks
were among others reported to have been
closed by flood conditions. Complete reports
still had not been received on Filmrow here
pending restoration of telephone lines to
many upstate cities. Water from the Hudson
river here, backing up in sewers on Broadway,
flooded the cellars of exchanges and
knocked out many heating units. Print shipments
for Saturday and Sunday, however,
had been picked up earlier and taken to
garages or other points, so no film was reported
damaged.
Almost six inches of rain fell in two days,
which, coupled with freezing temperatures
Saturday, cut 33,000 families off from power
facilities in the Albany area by Saturday
noon. Mayor John J. Ahearn, in declaring
a state of emergency at Troy, said that city
was called to pump out the water.
was very hard hit. Hudson, Gloversville,
The Vanderbilt at Greenville had no heat Amsterdam, Ballston Spa, Greenwich and
Friday night but did not close. Harry Lamont
owner that house.
Hoosick Falls were among other cities which
felt the brunt of the storm.
is of
PHILADELPHIA
TX7illiam Goldenberg, manager of the Grand the toughest hombre has to check his gun
Theatre in Camden, receives the first now and again at the door of the saloon in
orchid of the new year from this column. At Dead Man's Gulch, the kids haven't objected
yet. Makes a nice quiet show, in any case,
8:20 p. m. recently, he discovered a tremendous
fire in the building next door to his
theatre. While firemen battled the threealarm
blaze, Goldenberg mounted the stage
and explained to the 1.000 patrons seated in
the theatre that the house was separated
from the burning building by an areaway
and danger from the flames was slight. Thus
averting a possible panic. Goldenberg succeeded
in keeping patrons in their seats. Not
one patron left the theatre. In fact, bystanders
watching the flames, in many cases,
bought tickets and went in to see the film.
Barry McGuigan, theatre photographer,
helped out with some memory stuff to round
out the old year: Do you remember—when
the Palace and Victoria theatres on Market
street ran vaudeville shows? When the Market
street houses were less refined, and used
to erect "crime boards" out front for gangster
films. On the boards were displayed
guns, blackjacks, handcuffs and the like? Or'
when the Owl Theatre on Grays Ferry road
had "talkies" around 1914-15. In the pit
with the piano was a screen. Behind it were
three men and a woman. When the film was
flashed, the humans talked as the film folk
acted?
At the Majestic Theatre in Bridgeton. N. J.,
the youngsters have to check their guns at
the door come Saturday afternoon. As western
films are always the matinee attraction,
most of the kids come in cowboy outfits,
complete with shootin' iron. But the theatre
manager decided that cap pistols, while not
lethal, were too noisy. So he decreed the
check routine. Based on the fact that even
if you bar an occasional popcorn bag bursting.
"Paisan" is quietly breaking all existing records
at the Princess . also breaking
records is "Yellow Sky" at the Fox, shattering
all records at that 3,000-seater . . . Three
men, who robbed Robert Suits, manager of
the Overbrook Theatre, last December, have
been given long prison sentences. Mrs. Suits
was driving the car for her husband
when he went to deposit the theatre
receipts at a nearby bank, where the robbery
occurred. It was Mrs. Suits who identified
the getaway car and the bandits. All but $88
of the stolen money subsequently was recovered
by police. Sentences ranged from a
minimum of 3 and 10 years to a maximum
of 10 to 20 years.
George Balkin, manager of the Stanley
Theatre, celebrated a happy holiday season.
It all started about a month ago when his
daughter Karen, about three, had her tonsils
out. The child developed serious complications
and it was touch and go for a while
When the youngster recovered, Mrs. Balkin
became ill. But things are pretty well
straightened now and George is a happy guy.
Only fly in the ointment is that the family
is not around for the celebration. The ladies
are in New York, taking a rest and vacation.
"Voice of Theatre Speakers"
JOE HORNSTEIN has them!
January 8, 1949
56-A

. . Robert
. . Dorothy
. . Nathan
. . Cashier
. . Manager
. . The
. . Mr.
. . Dick
WILMINGTON
JJoliday business in Wilmington and Delaware
theatres was, to put it mildly, below
par, what with the bad weather . . . The
Queen Theatre put on a kiddy show of shorts
and cartoons with Manager Dick Kirsch reporting
excellent results . . . M. L. Martin,
assistant at the Warner, took a preholiday
vacation visit with relatives in Martinsville.
W. Va.
John Walker, projectionist at the Warner,
celebrated his wedding anniversary . . . The
kids of New Castle had a grand time as guests
of Mr. and Mrs. John Koczak of the Earle
Theatre, who held open house for them just
prior to Christmas. This year merchants
of the town contributed presents for the
One show was held for the boys and
kiddies.
another for the girls. The Koczaks have
been giving free Christmas shows for seven
years.
.
Members of the Ace Theatre staff were
guests of Manager Benjamin Shindler and
wife at their home Edna A.
Bowman of the Savoy was sick. Dolores
T. Manista and Jean Shinn were pinch-hitting
for her . Fisher of the Savoy
celebrated the New Year's by taking the
day off, the first time he has done this in
many years.
Robert L. Mills, chief engineer for Warner
Theatres, was in town looking over some
of the local houses . Lewis S.
Black of the Warner was inspecting his marquee,
refinished late last fall, and was surprised
to see how it had weathered because
of the cold, and instructed the maintenance
department to do a patchup job to hold until
the spring . B. Patton of the Warner
Theatre resigned to join the DuPont
company.
Theatres all over town contributed to the
program which brought toys to the city's
underprivileged children . and Mrs.
Fred W. Faulkner, owners of the Edgemoor,
are in Miami until April . . . Benjamin
Shindler, manager of the Ace, was in Miami
recently, and Morris Albom. assistant at the
Savoy, and his wife have returned from a
Gilbert Greenfield is
visit in Miami
the Edgemoor . Louis
a new usher at
Gross has joined the staff of the Grand as
an usher Hopkins is the new
cashier at the Arcadia.
The recent cold weather gave Howard W.
Rouke jr., projectionist at the Savoy, a
chance to go gunning . fourth annual
pre-Christmas dinner for employes was held
by the Crest Theatre with Manager Sylvan
Shaivitz in charge of the program . . . The
Crest was closed Christmas day as were
the Earle and the Pike theatres . . . The
Pike reopened December 27 after closing a
week to give Manager Richard Edge a chance
for a rest.
An anonymous donor gave some 200 orphans
of the city a Christmas theatre party at
the Queen. The donor, who declined to make
his name public, permitted the theatre management
to canvas every orphanage in town
to be certain that not a single youngster
was omitted. Manager Joseph DiFiore gave
the youngsters a real treat of comedies and
cartoons.
NEWSMEN'S AWARD—Jean Cocteau
(right), author-director of the French
film, "Eagle With Two Heads," and Noel
Meadow of Vog Films, which distributes
it in the U.S., look over a leather-bound
scroll signed by critics of the metropolitan
press and presented to Cocteau by the
Foreign Films club at the opening of the
picture at the Little Cine Met in New
York.
Hammett Loses N. Y. Suit
Vs. WB Over Sam Spade
NEW YORK—Dashiell Hammett, author of
the "Maltese Falcon," lost his federal court
action here against Warners over the rights
to the character, Sam Spade. The fiction
detective appears in the Hammett novel, the
WB film based on the novel and in a current
radio series being written by Hammett.
Judge Samuel Kaufman, who dismissed
Hammett's suit, said the issues would have
to be settled in a Los Angeles federal court
action filed by Warners. The film company
has accused Hammett and his radio associates
of infringement of
the Spade character.
Lamont Houses Dark
2 Weeks Before Xmas
Albany—Harry Lamont's policy of
closing his small town theatres for two
weeks before Christmas is being studied
by other exhibitors, according to reports
on Filmrow here, with an eye toward
adopting the policy in the future.
Lamont began closing the houses several
years ago in the belief that it would
be better to shutter the theatres during
the annual "slump" and give the employes
a vacation. He reports that the
action has worked well. Contrary to general
expectations, Lamond said, patronage
picks up as soon as the theatres are reopened.
The theory' long has been held
in film circles that patrons tend to lose
the habit of attending the theatre when
remains dark for any appreciable
period.
Several Schenectady independents are
reported to be considering the possibility
of closing down for a time before Christmas,
although the period may not be as
long as two weeks.
HARRISBURG
\A7hile for the most part business over the
holidays "wasn't too brisk," according to
theatremen, at least one downtown house
made a bright spot in the period for the
school boys and girls on vacation. Bob Sidman
at the Senate held a daily kiddy show
every morning, including an hour of cartoons
and the regular feature. "Station West."
New Year's eve midnight shows included
the Colonial with "Adventures of Don Juan";
Loew's Regent, "Words and Music"; Senate.
"Every Girl Should Be Married"; State. "The
Paleface," and the Rio, double feature,
"Sword of the Avenger" and "Linda Be
Good," with a stage show featuring Tex
Marshall and his horses . Wolff.
Evening News theatre page editor, listed the
holiday eve schedule with a brief description
of each attraction, in a boldface box on the
theatre
page.
Among the holiday parties for theatre folk
were two events given by Sam Gilman, manager
of Loew's, and his wife and Jack O'Rear.
Colonial manager, and his wife. In addition
many houses held "open house" In their
offices for newspaper and trade folk.
A little girl's Christmas wish for a puppy
was fulfilled when 9-year-old Joan Mosey
was presented with a two-month-old female
pedigreed collie by the management of
Loew's Regent. Joan won the pup for writing
the best letter on "Why I'd Like to Have
a Dog Like Lassie" in connection with showing
of "Hills of Home." Joan promised to
"clean him, brush his coat and give him
exercise." The child's father died five months
ago before he was able to fulfill his promise
to get Joan and her sister a puppy
In newspaper and radio ads at the Senate
where "Northwest Stampede" was the feature.
Manager Bob Sidman sold the two
short subjects almost as heavily as the features.
"It Pays to Be Ignorant" and "Football
Headliners" were the extras. As a result
of Sidman's ads a representative of
RKO's short subjects New York division
called and congratulated the manager, saying
that as a result of the success of the
Harrisburg showings "It Pays to Be Ignorant"
probably would be extended into a series.
Joseph H. McNabb Dies;
Headed Bell & Howell
CHICAGO—Joseph H. McNabb, 61. president
and board chairman of the Bell &
Howell Co.. manufacturers of photographic
equipment, died in Lutheran Deaconess hospital
January 5.
McNabb joined Bell & Howell as general
manager in 1916. Shortly afterward he acquired
the ownership of Donald J. Bell
founder of the company, and in 1922 was
elected to the presidency. He was a member
of the SMPE. National Conference Board and
the Photographic Manufacturers and Dealers
Ass'n of New York. He is survived by his
wife, Clara Kittredge McNabb. a daughter
Betty, and a son Theodore.
DeWolf at Chicago Theatre
Billy DeWolf of Paramount has opened a
two-week holiday engagement at the Chicago
Theatre.
BOXOFFICE January 1949

. . "Alaska
. . Zeke
. . Theatre
. . John
.
William Oberst, Engineer
For Buffalo Theatres, Dies
BUFFALO—Chief stationary engineer with
Buffalo Theatres, Inc., for the last 22 years,
William Oberst, 57, of Ebenezer, died at his
home recently of a heart attack. For the last
13 years, Oberst was engineer at Shea's Hippodrome
Theatre. During World War I,
Oberst served nearly two years with the 16th
engineers of Detroit in France. Born in
Buffalo, Jan. 19. 1891, Oberst attended school
24 here. He was a member of Michigan Post
582, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the International
Union of Operating Engineers.
Surviving are his wife Florence, five brothers,
August of Detroit, Edward of Montebello,
Calif., and Emil, Harry and Albert, all
of Buffalo, and three sisters, Mrs. Tom Snyder.
Mrs. Ann Heil and Mrs. Leslie Simmons,
all of Buffalo.
RICHMOND
Otewart Tucker, co-manager at the State,
is handling advance reservations and boxoffice
for the engagement of "Hamlet," opening
January 12 at the Capitol. The picture
is booked for two weeks at the house with
all seats reserved . Atkinson and Bill
Walsh worked the National's holiday stage
shows with stage manager Earl Claytor. The
Original Amateur Hour unit will be the next
flesh attraction, opening late in January.
Sam Bendheim jr. has called a managers
meeting January 13 for all managers in the
Neighborhood circuit . . . Members of the
Virginia Conservation commission, who materially
assisted Burton Holmes in producing
his travelogue on Virginia, were a little
ruffled to learn that the film will not be
shown in Virginia anywhere. Closest engagements
will be in Philadelphia and New
York.
Sunshine Sue returned to the WRVA Theatre's
Old Dominion Barn Dance show after
the birth of a daughter. The daughter already
has been nicknamed Princess of the
Hillbillies . Right Away," the
musical show produced by the Mask & Wig
club of the University of Pennsylvania,
played a one-night stand at WRVA January 7.
the circuit . . .
David Kamsky, former advertising manager
for the Neighborhood circuit, has been
named director of budget and personnel for
Walter Broadwell, poster
artist for the same circuit, has resigned.
Jules Lenzberg, who for many years conducted
pit orchestras at the Palace and
Riverside theatres in New York, brought an
orchestra to New York to play the stage
shows at the National when the local musicians
union was unable to furnish pit men
. during the holiday season business
boomed over New Year's weekend at
all theatres. The Colonial had the edge over
the others with "The Paleface" as its attraction.
Layton Ives' Park Theatre facade has been
freshened up with a coat of paint . . . Bertram
Yarbrough, producer and director of
the Richmond Summer Theatre, is at work
planning his third season of summer plays
at the McVey Hall Theatre . Fulwider,
projectionist at the Grand, is busy
getting settled in his new home.
Tighter Fire Regulations Favored
By Virginia Theatre Operators
RICHMOND—Virginia motion picture theatre
operators have asked the Virginia Corporation
commission to tighten up many sections
of its proposed fire hazard regulations
to provide greater fire protection for filmgoers.
Theatre operators also asked, during a
public hearing, that one section be modified
to keep them from spending perhaps $4,000,-
000 in what architect A. O. Budina described
as "needless" remodeling of stage facilities.
A packed courtroom turned out for the
hearing on a set of fire hazard regulations
designed to cover all public buildings in the
state. The regulations are being promulgated
under a 1948 act of the general assembly
which gave the commission wide authority
over fire hazards through the chief
marshall's office.
fire
Budina, called as an expert witness for
the theatre operators, was in general agreement
with the regulations as proposed by the
fire marshal's staff, but in several instances,
he asked that tighter restrictions be adopted.
He noted that the proposed regulations did
not require all theatre exits to be marked
with lighted signs, but only those exits not
customarily used for original entrance. He
recommended that every exit be marked, and
said the commission ought, in addition, to
require that every exit lighting fixture be
equipped with two bulbs, wired on separate
circuits.
Budina also was critical of a proposed
ALBANY
Dob Shattuck of the Uptown, Rensselaer,
and Don Violetti of the Van Buren were
Filmrow visitors during an extremely quiet
week . . . Alex Sayles, manager of the Palace
here,
says he thinks the latest film version
of "The Three Musketeers" is the best
so far. "The story has been made into a
film or it two three times and has never
flopped," he said. He said he and Gene
Ganott. one of his assistants, also found
"Words and Music" a topnotcher.
Herb Jennings, manager of the Madison,
was ill for several days with influenza . .
Johnny Duffy, Bill O'Brien and Joyce Dickinson
of the Madison staff also suffered
touches of the flu . . . Johnny Capano presented
hillbilly artists and other stage attractions
at the State in Troy on New Year's
eve in addition to "Let Us Live" and "Arkansas
Swing."
Hellman's Palace at Troy staged a kiddy
matinee on the final day of 1948 and gave
out candy and gifts . . . "Hamlet" is being
shown at the Colonial twice a day except
Saturdays and Sundays when a third showing
is offered. Gene Vogel, U-I manager,
says business on the film has built up until
repeat attendance has been noted. Bucky
Harris, U-I exploiteer, remained here for the
roadshow engagement. Filmrow reports say
the picture is scheduled to run four weeks.
Gene Vogel, U-I manager, called on Max
Cohen, Monticello exhibitor, at the Schlne
Jack Bullwinkle.
Columbia chief, went to Utlca. Columbia's
local is playdate drive in his honor. The
regulation dealing with the number of exitways.
He thought more exits should be provided
in terms of a theatre's seating capacity.
On several other points, however, Budina
said the commission's proposed requirements
would mean heavy spending by Virginia
theatre operators. To build enclosure walls
separating the stages of theatres from other
parts of the building, in accordance with
the fire marshal's proposal, Budina said,
would mean an expenditure of $5,000 to
$10,000 by each of more than 350 Virginia
theatres.
The architect explained that modern-day
motion picture houses simply aren't built for
stage performances. They are not theatres,
he said, in the sense that scenery can be
dropped out of lofts into places on a deep
stage. Ordinarily, the only things on stage
in a motion picture theatre are the screen,
the curtains and a couple of electric motors
to operate the curtains. He said no hazard
to life is involved in present construction.
Budina also objected to a proposal that
every theatre to be required see that two
doors are provided from its projection room.
He said this would be all right in future
theatres, but that remodeling to achieve this
object would be "almost impossible" in many
cases. Besides, he noted, if a projectionist
is careful with his film, 'there's no safer
place for him to be than the projection room."
Albany exchange is grouped with five others
for the 13-week campaign.
Four Fabian Schenectady theatres ran a
striking half-page group advertisement, opposite
the theatre of page daily papers, on
their special New Year's eve shows. This
supplemented insertions by the individual
houses on the regular theatre page. Below
the half-page ad were played two-column
layouts for Proctors, which offered "The
Paleface," for the State with "Whispering
Smith," the Plaza, with "That Wonderful
Urge," and the Erie, with "Yellow Sky."
Proctors and the State, first run houses,
charged $1 plus tax while the Plaza and Erie
charged 75 cents plus tax.
Dave Rosenbaum, Elizabethtown exhibitor,
is planning a Florida vacation in February
with his wife and daughter. The Rosenbaum's
son Bert, who is in the marine corps,
was home for the holidays.
Three Eagle Lion Films
Play New York Chains
NEW YORK—Three Eagle Lion films have
been booked by two leading New York circuits
during January.
"Mickey." Cinecolor film starring Lois Butler,
opened at Loew's metropolitan theatres
January 6, and "Ruthless," starring Zachary
Scott, will open January 12 and play all 65
theatres. "The Smugglers," in Technicolor,
starring Michael Redgrave, will play all 40
houses of the RKO circuit starting Januuary
12.
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949 S6-C

—
Telefilm Conference
To Be Held Jan. 24
NEW YORK—Film directors of television
New York, Newark. Baltimore and
stations in
Toledo will speak at a television film conference
to be held at the Biltmore hotel
January 24, according to Irwin A. Shane,
publisher of Televiser and general chairman
of the conference. Film distributors and
producers representing Hollywood and New
York are also scheduled to speak.. The first
television film conference was held in January
1948 at the Hotel Commodore.
Topics to be covered in the station directors
panel in the morning are: "The Stations'
Chief Film Complaints." by Ed Evans,
film director. WPIX, New York; "What the
Stations Want," by Elaine A. Phillips, station
WSPD-TV. Toledo; "Our Film Booking System."
by Robert Paskow, WATV, Newark;
"How We Produced Film for TV." by Gus
Ober. WMAR-TV. Baltimore, and "TV's Film
Outlook." by a speaker to be announced later.
John Mitchell, television director. United
Artists, will speak on "Production for TV
When Will It Pay?" and R. J. Rifkin, Ziv
Television, Inc., will speak on "Our Entrance
Into TV Films" at the luncheon panel.
Topics for the film business panel in the
afternoon will be: "Today's TV Film Situation."
by Ed Woodruff. Telecast Films, Inc.:
"The Distributors' Chief Complaints," by
Myron Mills. Equity Film Exchange: "How to
Improve Film Conditions." by Irving Leos,
Official Films, Inc.: "Legal Problems Affecting
Telecasting of Films," by Seymour
Peyser. Philips. Nizer. Benjamin & Krim.
and "A Film Producer Has His Say," by Ben
Parker. Film Highlights. Inc. The panels will
be followed by an open forum.
Dudley D. Earle Is Named
To Television Films Post
NEW YORK—Dudley D. Earle. formerly
vice-president of the National Wired Music
Corp.. has been named vice-president in
charge of sales for Television Features. Inc..
by Larry Gordon, president. Paul Marques,
formerly connected with Fox Movietone
News, has been named vice-president in
charge of production.
Television Features. Inc.. which produces
commercial films for television and other
uses, recently completed the first in a series
of films to be used in animating the Philco
electric sign at 46th Street and Broadwayoperated
by Douglas Leigh. New Year's eve
throngs in Times Square saw the first film
which featured the acts of Ray Bolger, the
De Marcos and Russell Swan. Fred Allen
will be filmed in his vaudeville juggling
routine for one of the series of 36 programs
Television Features will make for the Philco
sign during the next three years, according
to Gordon. Each program will run from
four to 12 miniiii
Four Sign for Telenews
NEW YORK—The International News
Service television department has placed its
Telenews-INS newsreels in Pittsburgh. Washington,
D. C, Houston and Dayton outlets.
The daily newsreel has been sold to WOIC.
Washington: KLEE-TV. Houston: WDTV.
Pittsburgh, and WHIO. Dayton.
Howard Marx Is Promoted
To Ampro Sales Manager
NEW YORK—Howard Marx, former assistant
sales manager of Ampro Corp., has
been promoted to vice-president and general
sales manager by A. J. Palmer, president.
He succeeds Harry Monson, resigned.
Frank B. Rogers jr., eastern division manager,
has been named vice-president and
assistant sales manager.
Marx has had 16 years of experience in
merchandising and sales engineering of motion
picture projection equipment. Prior to
World War II, he was branch manager for
several National Theatre Supply offices.
From 1933 to 1938. Rogers was associated
with the sales and installation divisions of
35mm equipment. In 1938. he set up a film
producing company which has contributed
several educational films which are still in
use in schools and colleges today.
U-I Rank Sales Campaign
Set for Latin America
NEW YORK—Universal-International will
conduct a J. Arthur Rank Sales Drive in
Latin America, according to Al Daff. foreign
sales supervisor. The winner of the drive,
which began Jan. 3. 1949, and will continue
for 26 weeks, will receive a trip to London
as guest of Rank and John Davis.
Ben Conn, U-I home office executive, has
been named captain of the Rank drive.
Americo Aboaf, U-I Latin American supervisee
and Robert Weait, Latin American
representative for the Rank Organization, will
be Cohn's associates on the drive committee.
"Hamlet." "Snowbound, "Against the
Wind." "Daybreak" and "Blue Lagoon" are
among the Rank pictures which U-I will distribute
in Latin America during the next
six months.
AFL Names Richard Walsh
To Bylaws Committee
NEW YORK—Richard F. Walsh. IATSE
international president, has been named to
a five-man committee which will supervise
changes in the bylaws of the AFL League
for Political Education. Walsh is a member
of the administrative committee of the
league.
The others named to the bylaws group
were: William Green, president of AFL:
George Meany, AFL secretary-treasurer:
Harry C. Bates, president of the bricklayers
union, and W. C. Birthright, president of
the barbers union. Proposed changes in the
bylaws will permit the league to accept tencent
contributions from all AFL members
to finance a 14-month political education
drive.
Everett Adams Appointed
Hygienic General Mgr.
NEW YORK—Everett V. Adams, manager
of the contract department of Hygienic Productions,
Wilmington, Ohio, has been named
general manager, according to Kroger Babb.
president. Jack Thomas, supervisor of agents,
has been made general manager of Hollywood
Productions, a subsidiary.
Joe W. Trundle, former local newspaperman,
has become public relations director and
Mrs. Charlotte Trundle, former local public
relations consultant, head of publicity.
Scophony Case End
Looms With Decree
NEW YORK—The three-year-old Scophony
antitrust case is about to wind up in
a consent decree.
The Department of Justice has reached an
agreement with all but one of the defendants
in the action filed December 1945. The
government had accused Paramount. General
Precision Equipment Corp.. Scophony Corp.
of America and Scophony Ltd. of Great
Britain of setting up restrictive licensing
agreements for Scophony television patents.
Most of these patents cover large screen
television.
Paramount and GPE have already worked
out an agreement. SCA has approved all but
a few provisions of the decree. These will
probably be okayed in a few days. The British
defendant has made no move to come to
terms with the government. Last April it
was reinstated as a defendant in the case
by the Supreme Court. The department will
ask for a summary judgment from the district
court unless the British company signs
the decree.
The decree is reported to require the defendants
to dispose of their stock in SCA
and to require SCA to license its patents
without restriction.
The Popular Fiction Group
To Start Film Columns
NEW YORK—The 25 all-fiction
magazines
of the Popular Fiction group, with a monthly
circulation of 2.500,000, will inaugurate
monthly motion picture columns beginning
with the May issue, according to an announcement
by Henry Steeger. editorial director
of the publications.
Since the Popular Fiction Group is comprised
of magazines of adventure, sports, romance,
detective, and western tales, each
magazine will preview those pictures in the
same story field. In commenting on the new
feature, Steeger said, "This is a logical step
for the Popular Fiction Group since motion
pictures and fiction magazines have the same
basic entertainment appeals."
Steeger stated that he would be interested
in receiving advance preview material from
releasing companies. All copy should be sent
to: Motion Picture Editor. Popular Fiction
Group. 205 East 42nd St.. New York 17. N. Y.
Thomas McGrath to Head
EK Distribution Center
ROCHESTER—Thomas E. McGrath. head
of the planning and distribution department
at the Eastman Kodak office since 1945, has
been named manager of a new distribution
center for Kodak plants here. The center,
now under construction at a site on Mount
Read boulevard in Kodak park, will provide
central storage and shipping facilities. Merchandise
from all the company's Rochester
plants will be stored there prior to shipment
to Kodak's domestic branches and to foreign
markets.
McGrath has been associated with Kodak
since 1926 when he worked in Cine-Kodak
motion picture film service department. He
was appointed department head in charge
of distribution in 1934 and of sales priorities
in 1941.
56-D BOXOFFICE - January 8. 1949

Hollywood Office— Suite 219 at 6404 Hollywood Blvd.: Ivan Spear. Western Manager)
SAG Directors Facing
Financial Problem
HOLLYWOOD—Although the Screen Actors
Guild completed its 1948 fiscal year, ending
last October 31, with an operating balance
of $585,935.18—an increase of more than
$23,500 over the preceding year—members
were warned via an intelligence report from
the board of directors that the drain on
guild finances has increased to the point
where a financial problem has been created
which must be solved.
The SAG's net operating balance was disclosed
in the organization's annual financial
report, which has been filed with the TJ.S
Department of Labor. According to the directorate,
however, large expenditures required
to organize the television field, together
with increases in operating expenses
caused by inflation and a decrease in the
number of dues-paying members, necessitates
immediate action to remedy the situation.
Also revealed in the report was the fact
that by a 1,235-186 vote, SAG members agreed
to increase their contributions to the Motion
Picture Relief Fund from one-half of 1 per
cent to 1 per cent of their earnings.
Two studio unions got off to an early start
in 1949 by resuming negotiations for new bargaining
agreements with the major producers.
First to huddle with the MPAA's labor
liaison committee was the Screen Publicists
Guild, followed by IATSE Office Employes
Local 174. Both seek renewals of existing
contracts. Also expected to seek an early
parley date with producers is the Screen Directors
Guild.
January 12 was set by the National Labor
Relations Board as the date for elections to
determine the bargaining agents for machinists
and automobile mechanics on the major
lots. Seeking jurisdiction over machinists are
the IATSE and the International Ass'n of
Machinists, while the IAM and AFL Teamsters
Local 399 are competing for control of
the automobile mechanics.
checks dropped from $98.67 in October to
$95.69 in the following month.
United Appeal Donations
Total 68 Per Cent of Goal
HOLLYWOOD—Still some distance away
from its $1,303,720 goal is the industry's fourth
annual United Appeal drive. Latest figures
disclose contributions of $886,344 for approximately
68 per cent of the total. To date
14,316 pledges have been received and the
campaign, piloted by Roy M. Brewer, IATSE
executive, will be continued through January.
Emphasis is now being placed on potential
subscribers from the higher income brackets,
which Brewer reported lagging behind last
year's figures.
For the benefit of the nation's golf caddies.
Bing Crosby and Bob Hope will appear with a
group of fairway aces in a noncommercial
color film being made at the request of the
Western Golf Ass'n and the National Golf
Ass'n. Prints in both 16mm and 35mm will
be distributed to golf clubs throughout the
country. Purpose of the short is to instruct
youths in the proper caddying techniques and
to stimulate interest in the National Caddy
Foundation, which offers college scholarships
as prizes.
Release Through Columbia
For Joan Davis Comedy
HOLLYWOOD—Release through Columbia
has been secured for "Traveling Saleswoman,"
comedy to star Joan Davis, which
will be produced independently by Tony
Owen. A February camera start has been
charted for the project, which is based on an
original by Owen and Miss Davis.
Owen additionally has an Allied Artists release
commitment for "Green Bay Packers,"
story of the pro football team, which is scheduled
to go into work this spring.
Farrow Gets New Contract
HOLLYWOOD—Paramount handed Director
John Farrow a new term ticket, marking
the start of his eighth year with the studio.
His next assignment is the Betty Hutton-Victor
Mature musical. "Red. Hot and Blue,"'
which will be produced by Robert Fellows.
Lou Moss Requests
$885,000 Damages
HOLLYWOOD—An $885,000 damage action
against Republic, charging^ breach of
contract, was scheduled to be filed in federal
district court at midweek on behalf of Lou
Moss and the Lou Moss Pictures Corp. Attorney
Edward Raiden represents the plaintiffs.
Moss charges that in April 1945 Republic
signed a contract agreeing to distribute a
projected film, "Voodoo Legend," in which he
planned to star Johnny Weissmuller and Arthur
Lake. He contends, however, that although
Republic reserved the right to approve
the final script, the company rejected the
screenplay three times and then asserted the
contract had expired.
A total of $840,000 is sought as the alleged
profit the film would have made, while Moss
asks $30,000 in producer's fees and asserted
loss of screen credit, and $15,000 said to have
been expended in pre-production costs.
Set Release Through RKO
For Two McCarthy Films
HOLLYWOOD—Release through RKO has
been set for two more pictures to be made
during the current year by Glenn McCarthy
Productions, which recently completed its initial
venture, "The Green Promise," also for
RKO. An April starting date has been
charted for "You Can't Do That," a comedy.
Formed last June, the McCarthy unitheaded
by the oil millionaire— lists Robert
Paige and Monty Collins as associate producers.
"The Green Promise" is slated for a
world premiere in Houston. Tex.. March 17.
John J. Baker Dead
HOLLYWOOD—Death came January 1. as
the result of a heart attack, to John J. Baker,
42, who, until recently, had been a member
of U-I's studio publicity department. He is
survived bv his wife, a son and his mother.
16mm Newsreel Plans U. S. Coverage
As was expected in view of declining production
tempos, both the studio employment
HOLLYWOOD—Plans to set up a network
news cameramen throughout the country,
of
index and payrolls showed a drop in November
as compared to October, according to the
supplying key city and sectional coverage of
news events and features, are being developed
by the newly organized Allyn Butterfield Productions,
California state labor statistics department.
The employment index declined to 74.2 from
which is launching the "American
Junior Newsreel." Butterfield has set Allan
October's 77.1, while average weekly pay
Stensvold, color cinematographer, as technical
supervisor in charge of photographic operations
for the project.
Butterfield's newsreel will be filmed entirely
in Kodachrome for distribution to
schools and youth groups, and black-and
white prints will be supplied for video broadcasting
purposes. The first three reels have
been completed.
BOXOFFICE January 1949 57

THOSE hundreds of unhappy, unemployed
Hollywoodians who have been pinning
their hopes for better times on the thingswill-pick-up-after-the-first-of-the-year
prognostications
of Cinemania's railbirds apparently
are due for another disappointment.
Surveys reveal that January, instead of marshalling
in the predicted upswing in production
activity, seems destined to hit a
new low in film-making activities. The tally
of pictures scheduled to reach the sound
stages in 1949's first month disclosed a total
of only 28 subjects. This is considerable of a
drop from the 33-picture aggregate which
was at the starting post in the early days
of last month, and is a gain of but three
over the poorest month recorded during 1948
—February, when only a meager 25 subjects
faced the cameras.
Of course, there is always the possibility
that before month's end a touch of optimism
may overtake the magi of production and
January will still witness advent of the longawaited
resumption of normal film capital
employment. But at this writing it appears
very likely that the day will again be postponed,
at least until later in the spring.
Which logically leads to consideration of
a few more-or-less well-written paragraphs
submitted by John Del Valle, an old-time
space-snatcher currently on the pay roll of
the Nassour Studios—and a press agent on
anyone's pay roll these days is something of
a man-bites-dog item.
Del Valle points out that at a time when
financial interests in most instances are reluctant
to invest in motion pictures, one Los
Angeles banker is deviating from the trend
by investing substantially of his own capital
in financing a series of films. He is William
Nassour, chairman of the board of the Hollywood
State Bank. With his brother Edward,
he owns the comparatively new Nassour
Studios. The Nassours are completing the
first motion picture to bear their label—an
Abbott and Costello feature, "Africa Screams,"
which United Artists will distribute.
Banker Nassour's optimism, Del Valle reports,
is based upon the premise that good
motion pictures can be made for less than
heretofore, by the elimination of unnecessary
and wasteful overhead. His kickoff venture
is budgeted at $900,000. and it is claimed
that it would have cost Sl.200,000 had it
been subjected to the overhead costs which
Eire characteristic of most Hollywood-made
It seems reasonable to assume that other
banking interests are watching the Nassour
venture with something more than passing
interest. If he strikingly demonstrates that
he is right in his estimates, other moneylenders,
before they open up on loans, undoubtedly
will insist that comparable trimming
of overhead be initiated by established
producers and production companies.
And that may lead to even further tightening
of financing, because economies and
curtailment of overhead—except in the lower
employment echelons—seems to be a bit difficult
to learn by old-line producers.
'Twas the week before Christmas, and
all through the house,
Not a picture was shooting, not even a
louse.
But the blurbery boys, those few who
were workin'
Made sure that the Hollywood press was
not shirkin'.
When ideas are scarce—and who has ideas
during the merry (?) holiday season?—always
reliable to fill space are a few comments
on the vagaries of the publicity lads
who arrange the previewing of pictures for
filmdom's hungry press.
Production having been what it has been,
previews are far from as plentiful as they
were during more active days. In fact, many
weeks go by with few, if any, pictures being
submitted for critical appraisal. Yet during
the first four days of the short, busy Christmas
week, nine—count 'em, nine?—features
were debuted for the doubtful edification of
the reviewers. Which, sandwiched between
last-minute shopping and established seasonal
celebrations, kept them busier than
the proverbial lady with two boudoirs.
Two theories have been advanced in explanation
of this unusual and thoughtless
burst of activities:
Item: The blurbers reasoned that no one
reads much during the Yuletide and, consequently,
it was a good time to get bad reviews
on bad pictures into print
Item: By keeping them exceptionally busy,
members of Hollywood's habitually hungry
press would have less time to cogitate upon
the fact that this year the annual Christmas
handouts from the studios leaned heavily
toward tired California wine and aimless
eadgets instead of the more costly bonded
bourbon and Scotch which poured forth during
more prosperous years.
in the picture. Real tears, too."
Conditions being what they are. any independent
producer can beat that record
upon the drop of a "no" from his banker.
'Dan Patch' Publicity
To Tie In With Races
HOLLYWOOD—Plans to tie
in the exhibition
of "The Great Dan Patch," which he
made for UA release, with several hundred of
the more important pacing and trotting meets
throughout the U.S. this year are being perfected
by W. R. Frank. Arrangements for the
day-date bookings were discussed by Frank
with officials of the U.S. Trotting Ass'n at
huddles in Columbus. Ohio. The film is a
biography of the famed record-holding trotting
horse. Dan Patch.
Walt Disney's new feature for RKO, "So
Dear to My Heart." will be giver, its world
premiere January 19 at the Indiana Theatre
in Indianapolis. On the following day the
picture will have a simultaneous "area opening"
in more than 100 theatres ranging from
Indianapolis to Cincinnati, with general release
to follow immediately.
Warners set January 18 as the date for
the formal opening of "The Adventures of
Don Juan" at the Warner Hollywood Theatre,
marking the first klieg-light-and-erminewrap
premiere of the film colony's 1949 social
season.
Allied Artists Postpones
Production of 3 Films
HOLLYWOOD—Inability to get the scripts
ready in time for scheduled camera starts
this month resulted in postponement, probably
until February, of three films to be made
under the Allied Artists banner. Set back
were Producer-Director Roy Del Ruth's "Red
Light." the King Bros.' "Gun Crazy," and
"The Harvester," which will be made by
Windsor Productions, independent unit
headed by Julian Lesser and Frank Melford.
Resultantly the only pictures slated for
production during January' on the Monogram-
AA lot will be an untitled Johnny Mack
Brown western and an also untagged sagebrusher
toplining Jimmy Wakely.
In line with general studio practice. Monogram-AA's
operating manpower has been cut
down in proportion to the reduced shooting
schedule.
Company spokesmen declared, however,
that the employment index would rise
with the launching of camera work on the
currently postponed pictures.
Garfield in 'American'
HOLLYWOOD—"An American in Paris," to
star John Garfield, will be the next independent
film venture for R. B. Roberts Pro-
TTTLE TINKERS' CORNER
ductions. Camera work will be launched in
Universal-International expanded the France this summer, with Abraham Polonsky
rictures. Nassour feels that such 25 per cent
trimming of costs easily can represent the Douglas Fairbanks starrer from "The directing from his own script. No release is
O'Flvnn" to "The Fighting O'Flynn."
of Evil." was produced
flif.Vrcnce between protits and loss in today's
uncertain motion picture market
The Brudern Warner can get even by
under the Enterprise banner for dis-
set. Roberts' last. "Force
Whether his calculations are correct or not. making one with Errol Flynn and calling it
by Metro.
tribution
they pose an engrossing point. The financing "The Fighting O'Fairbanks."
From Bill (Wailing Wall* Hebert a touch
trivia which boasts: "Gigi Perreau. the To Discuss Projection
of film-making by bankers is. of course, the
established thing. But here is an unusual of
HOLLYWOOD—Carbon arc projection and
situation in which Mr. Moneybags also does seven-year-old child wonder who is currently
in Samuel Goldwyn's 'Roseanna McCoy.'
televised images will
the photographing of the producing, to the accompaniment of
ballyhooed emphasis on possible economies broke her own record this week when she be discussed at the slated January 11 meeting
of the Pacific coast section of the Society
and the elimination of waste—without jeopardizing
cried eight times in six minutes, for a scene
of Motion Picture Engineers. Speakers will
quality.
include Charles W. Handley of the National
Carbon Co. and L. D. Grignon of 20th Century-Fox.
BOXOFFICE January 8.

Television Academy
Banquet January 25
HOLLYWOOD—The Academy of Television
Arts and Sciences will hold its first annual
awards banquet and seminar at the
Hollywood Athletic club January 25. There
will be seven speakers at the morning and
afternoon sessions and round-table discussion
will follow, according to Syd Cassyd,
chairman of the seminar. The banquet will
be held in the evening.
The speakers will be Hal Roach jr., president
of Television Film Producers Ass'n, who
will discuss producing films for television;
William R. Watson of the Hurbert H. Horn
Co., who will speak on installation and servicing
of television receivers; Al Wager and
Bernard Tabakin of MCA, who will discuss
TV talent problems; Paul Lewis, vice-president
of Darcey advertising agency, and Leonard
Ericson, vice-president of Kenyon &
Eckhart agency, who have been chosen by
AAAA to discuss advertising agencies' relationship
to television, and Mike Stokey of
Stokey & Ebert, who will discuss problems of
producing video programs.
Charles B. Brown will make the opening
speech at the banquet and will introduce
Rudy Vallee, who will be master of ceremonies.
A plaque will be presented to a local
station in recognition of best over-all achievement
in 1948.
Academy to Review Films
For Music Eligibility
HOLLYWOOD—As one of the preliminaries
to the forthcoming annual Academy awards
ceremonies, which will be staged in March,
the executive committee of the Academy's
music branch slated a midweek meeting to
review motion picture lists for music eligibility.
Candidates will be classified for the best
scoring of a musical film, and for the best
musical score of a dramatic or comedy picture.
The committee also planned to check
songs submitted by studios for awards consideration.
Chairman of the group is Morris Stoloff.
Also members of the committee are Ray
Heindorf, Abe Meyer, Edward Powell, Miklos
Rozsa. Harry Warren and Charles Woolcott
This year's Oscar sweepstakes will be held
on a sound stage at the Warner studio in
Burbank.
To Start on Video Film
HOLLYWOOD—Slated for a mid-January
start as the first in a projected series of
half-hour semidocumentaries for video is
"Don't Be a Sucker," being produced by the
Dewly formed television unit headed by Hal
E. Roach jr. Exposing the rackets to which
householders fall prey, the script by Allyn
Butterfield was prepared with the cooperation
of the Los Angeles police department and the
Better Business Bureau.
New Production Firm
HOLLYWOOD—An addition to the roster
of independent production units is Bardsdale
Productions, organized by Dennis
O'Keefe. Louis Hayward and John Maschio.
First project, to star O'Keefe and Hayward.
is tentatively titled "Operation Vittles" and
is slated to be filmed in England, based on
the Berlin airlift. Distribution arrangements
were not announced.
East: Henry Hathaway. 20th-Fox director,
and his assistant. Abe Steinberg, checked out
for England on a three-month location-scouting
junket, with plans also to visit Scotland,
France and North Africa. Hathaway will
gun "The Black Rose" in one of those locales
early this spring, with Louis D. Lighton producing.
East: Nat Cohen, Edward Small's production
representative in England, headed back
to his London headquarters after a two-week
stay here, during which he huddled with
Small concerning plans for launching a picture
in Britain early this year.
East: Irving Brecher, who produced and
directed "The Life of Riley" for release, left
for Cincinnati to set up plans for the world
premiere of the film early in March. Returning
to the U-I lot after an extended sojourn
at Pebble Beach was Producer-Writer
Robert Buckner.
West: Herbert J. Yates, Republic president,
returned from New York after spending the
Christmas holidays with his family there.
West: Due in at week's end for Metro studio
huddles was Charles Moskowitz, vicepresident
and treasurer of
Loew's, Inc.
West: R. B. Roberts, partner of Actor John
Garfield in an independent production unit,
returned from a business junket to New York
and has begun preparations for launching a
new film this summer.
West: Paul Short, Allied Artists producer,
returned from Dallas, where he screened
"Bad Boy" for Chief Barker R. J. O'Donnell
and other officials of Variety Clubs International,
which sponsored the film.
East: Following approval of the project by
the board of directors, Alan Gundelfinger,
Cinecolor's technical director, was to leave
for England to set up a processing laboratory
in London. Gundelfinger spent six weeks in
England late in 1948 surveying the situation,
and the directorate's okay came after he
had presented a report on his findings.
East: S. Sylvan Simon. Columbia producerdirector,
left for a week's visit to the Virgin
Islands, surveying background and story possibilities
for a feature being mapped by the
studio.
Showman Albert Galston
To Expand Store Chain
HOLLYWOOD— Albert A. Galston, president
of Galston & Sutton Theatres and past
president of the Theatre Owners Ass'n of
Southern California and Arizona, also is
president of Orange Juline Retail Stores, Inc..
a fruit drink company with a chain of 60
stores. Galston's company has announced
an expansion program to increase the chain
of stores to more than 300 by the summer
of 1951, and a longer range plan looks toward
a national goal of 1.000 stores, it was declared
on December 24.
U.S. Film Producers
Urged to Go to India
HOLLYWOOD—American producers and
distributors who find themselves hampered
in foreign markets because of frozen credits
should turn their attentions toward India.
That's the recommendation of Keki Modi,
large-scale producer and exhibitor in that
country, who wound up a stay in Hollywood
by addressing members of the international
committee of the Ass'n of Motion Picture
Producers.
There is no government restriction, Modi
said, on taking out of India the money
earned by pictures released there by American
distributors. He proposed that a major
Hollywood studio make a film in India on
some suitable subject in two versions, English
and native, and predicted that the production
cost of both versions "can be returned
from the Indian version alone."
Chairman of the board of Western India
Theatres, a producer with studios in Bombay
and a member of the Bombay film censor
board, Modi reported that India is producing
some 200 features a year at an average
cost of $165,000. Action pictures, whether
domestic or foreign-made, are most popular
with Indian audiences, he said, and the "outstanding
successes" among foreign films
shown in his country are those produced in
Hollywood.
Following the luncheon meeting at which
Modi was the featured speaker, the Indian
film executive, accompanied by his wife, left
for New York. Following a short stay there
they will go to London and thence back to
Bombay.
Also attending the luncheon were Joseph
I. Breen, the MPAA's production code administrator;
Robert M. W. Vogel, chairman
of the international committee; and Geoffrey
Shurlock, Addison Durland, Harold
Smith, Luigi Luraschi, William Gordon, Harold
Melniker, W. M. Bishop, Carl Schaefer.
Ely Levy and Arch Reeve.
Unemployment Hearing
Asked by Extras Union
HOLLYWOOD — Counsel for the Screen
Extras Guild has requested the state unemployment
insurance appeals board to call a
hearing on a ruling handed down by Howard
Horn, state referee, affecting extras registered
for $9.45 daily mob calls. Horn declared such
extras are ineligible for unemployment insurance
unless they accept work outside the
industry when screen employment is lacking.
SEG attorneys contend the ruling is unfair
and that it would be difficult, if not impossible,
for extra players to shift employment
back and forth because they must hold themselves
available for film work by checking
with casting agencies daily.
Fred Fidler to Ad Post
HOLLYWOOD — Fred H. Fidler. recently
appointed Pacific coast manager for the
J. Walter Thompson agency, has been elected
a vice-president. Active in the television and
commercial film fields, Fidler succeeds Arthur
C. Farlow. who has been shifted to the
agency's New York office. Fidler has been
with the firm since 1929.
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949 59

.
W
'
'
,
STUDIO PERSONNEUTIES
Barnstormers
Monogram
Cowboy star WHIP WILSON appeared January 7
and 8 at the Bellllower Circle Theatre in Los Angeles,
where his first picture. "Crashing Through."
is currently booked.
AUDIE MURPHY, starred in the title role oi "Bad
Boy. has been set to appear in eight midwestern
Ci .es before members of Variety Clubs International,
u.ider whose sponsorship Paul Short produced the
Cleffers
Metro
Scoring on Producer Clarence Brown's "The
Secret Garden" was signed to BRONISLAU KAPEH
Any Number Can Play." produced by Arthui
by'fENNir:' HAYTON y "'"** LeR°y "'" >' 6COred
'
Monogram
Musical director EDWARD KAY was put in charge
of scoring "Bomba. the Jungle Boy," which Walter
Mlnsch produced.
Musical director EDWARD KAY conducted the
orchestra for scoring of the Lmdsley Parsons production.
"Tuna Clipper "
Paramount
JAY LIVINGSTON and RAY EVANS teamed as
songwriters, were signed to a new long-term contract
United Artists
R Frank set DAVID CHUDNOW as musical
Meggers
Metro
Tabbed as producer of "Father of the Bride "
BERMAN bV EdWard S ree,er WOS PANDRO S ' '
'
Monogram
Producer Barney Sarecky has set LAMBERT HILL
YER to direct the new Johnny Mack Brown western
as yet untitled.
Paramount
"My Friend irma," the upcoming Hal Wallis pro-
Wffl b '
Pil °'ed
^0^^^^'° Sh ° W
Warner Bros.
WILLIAM JACOBS was assigned to handle production
reins on "The Candy Kid." melodrama of the
Diamond Jim Brady era.
"Marriage '49." Colliers' serial and novel by Vera
Caspary, has been placed on HARRY KURNITZ's
production schedule.
11 direct for
ving Rapper and Philip Yordan
Anna Lucasta," starring Paulette Goddard.
Independent
Former Kay Kyser vocalist MICHAEL DOUGLAS
was pacted lor a role in the next Walt Disney production.
"Cinderella."
Metro
BILLY BEVAN checks in for a character-comedian
role in "The Forsyte Saga." MORGAN FARLEY
joins the cast toplined by Greer Garson. Errol Flynn
Walter Pidgeon and Robert Young, with Comptoi.
Bennett directing and Leon Gordon producing
Added to the cast of Robert Sisk's production
Highland Lassie." were DORIS LLOYD and TUDOR
MICKEY KNOX was^ inked to play Clark Gable's
pal in "Any Number Can Play," under the directn
of Mervyn LeRoy for Producer Arthur Freed. Celbrating
his 25th year with the studio, LEWIS STONE
for the part oi a man who lost a lortune
gambling^ while WENDELL COREY was signed to
Clark Gable akling brother-in-law.
Paramount
WANDA HENDRIX was set for the feminine lead
opposite Alan Ladd in Richard Maibaum's production.
"After Midnight," with Mitchell Leisen directing
Top role as an international character was set io:
PEiER LORRE in the Hal Wallis production. "Rope
oi Sand." CORINNE CALVET will make her American
debut and CLAUDE RAINS was signed for a
teatured role in the film to be directed by William
Dieterle.
Republic
SHIRLEY DAVIS was inked for the femme lead
opposite Monte Hale in Mel Tuckers production
t,«;',? c( ;„r J
he Plaln s-" Additional castings include
£^„ H R
V ,?T^RORY MALUNSON. ROY BARCROF1
g
A?R^ LAUTER, GEORGE CARLETON and LANE
BRADFORD
20th Century-Fox
Actor BOB PATTEN had his option lifted lor another
year.
EULA GUY and ROBERT GISr join the cast oi the
Sam Engel production, "Come to the Stable."
Concert violinist EFREM ZIMBALIST will have a
role in Producer Sol Siegel's "The Eastside Story
tophning Victor Mature.
Universal-International
n X?X¥.
an character actors JOHN HARMON, DON
?A D J?S?' NA A BRyANT, EDWARD „ JI LE BARON ana
MANUEL PARIS were inked for supporting spots in
The Lady Gambles."
JACK CHAEFE and JOE PLOTSKY were signed for
supporting roles in Producer Jules Schermer's "Illegal
Entry." under the direction of Frederick DeCordovo
Role of a police chief in the William Powell star-
GLEASON 16 °" e Fa Se S 'eP ' '" g°es ,AMES
'°
MIKEL CONRAD was signed to a long-term contract
and handed one of the top roles in the Technicolor
production. "Sierra." as his first assignmeni.
"Ali-
Options
Scripters
^Male^lead m
Columbia
Eagle Lion
''Kazan." picturization of James LAWRENCE LIPTON scripts Orbit Production's
story, was assigned mony" for Producer Arthur 2 Landi.
Metro
MARGARET ROBERTS was assigned to screenplay
Paramount
Radio writer and editor FINIS FARR was signed
to a writing contract.
RKO Radio
ISOBEL LENNART checked in on loan from Metro
to write the Don Hartman production, "Christmas
Samuel Goldwyn ticketed F. HUGH HERBERT to
script an original story and screenplay entitled
Commencement." to be based on a typical small
town high school graduation exercise. Farley
Granger and Joan Evans will have the starring roles.
Story Buys
Columbia
The Big Gun," a western by William Bowers,
v. as acquired and assigned to Alex Gottlieb for
Metro
"Operation Malaya," original by Manchester
Eoddy, Los Angeles newspaper publisher, dealing
with U.S. secret methods of securing needed rubber
during World War II, was purchased from RKO and
is being prepared for forthcoming production from
the screenplay by Frank Fenton.
Paramount
The Stephen Vincent Benet yarn, "Famous," was
acquired as a Bing Crosby vehicle.
20th Century-Fox
Moon Over the Catskills," comedy of the borscht
_-:rcui: by Phil Davis, gag man for radio's Ralph
c-dwards, was bought for production by George
Technically
Metro
Cameraman HAL ROSSON was assigned to the
Uark Gable-Alexis Smith drama. "Any Number Can
Play." Named assistant director was SID SIDMAN
Paramount
RONNIE LUBIN will be dialog director and HARRY
HOGAN the script supervisor on Richard Maibaum's
production. "Dear Wife."
BILLY DANIELS was signed as dance director lor
the Betty Hutton-Vn Mature vehicle, "Red. Hot
and Blue-
Film editors ARCHIE MARSHEK and EDA WARREN
were assigned to "Dear Wife" and "Red. Hot and
31ue." respectively.
Republic
Camera duties were assigned to BUD THACKERY
on the Monte Hale starrer. "Prince of the Plains."
SCOTT, musical dir
20th Century-Fox
Title Changes
Metro
"The Hills of Home." which recently went into
release, has been retagged DANGER IN THE
HILLS
Independent Producers
To Hear Arnall, Coburn
HOLLYWOOD— Ellis
Arnall, new president
of the Society of Independent Motion Picture
Producers, will be among the speakers at
the next dinner and business meeting of the
Independent Motion Picture Producers Ass'n,
to be held January 6 with I. E. Chadwick,
IMPPA president, as chairman. Also on the
.speakers' list is Actor Charles Coburn.
JOAN" PREMIERE STAGED-BIack ties and ermines were the order of the
evening when "Joan of Arc." the Sierra Pictures production being distributed by
RKO, was given its formal western premiere at the Fox Beverly Theatre in Beverly
Hills. Among the film luminaries on hand were (left I. Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wanger
(Joan Bennettl and their daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. John Anderson.
Wanger produced the Ingrid. Bergman starrer. At right. Victor Fleming, who directed
the picture, has a few words to say to John Baird. announcer for station KMP( .
which covered the opening for radio audiences.
'Actress of the Year'
HOLLYWOOD—Gracing the cover of the
Los Angeles Times' annual midwinter special
edition as "Actress of the Year" was Jane
Wyman. Warner contract star. The souvenir
issue, which for this edition was titled "Gold
Rush Centennial," is distributed throughout
the U.S. coincident with Pasadena's yearly
Tournament of Roses.
BOXOFTICE January 8. 1949

ua
t
—
Los Angeles Grosses
Hold al High Level
LOS ANGELES — Midnight shows New
Year's eve plus a strong lineup of product
combined to peg first run takes at high
levels during the first week of 1949. Neckand-neck
contenders for top honors were
"Blood on the Moon." winding up with a 180
per cent rating; and "The Paleface" and
"The Snake Pit." each finishing with 175.
A new addition to the first run lineup was
Fox West Coast's Fine Arts, which opened
with a roadshow engagement of "The Red
Shoes" and snagged an estimated 160 per
cent.
(Average Is 100)
Beverly, Palace—Joan of Arc (RKO), 2nd wk 160
Belmont, Culver, El Rey, Orpheum, Vogue—Blood
(20th-Fox). 2nd wk 175
Fine Arts—The Red Shoes (EL) 160
Ritz, Guild. Ins, Studio City, United Artists—
You Gotta Stay Happy (U-I), Jungle Patrol
(20th-Fox), 2nd wk 110
Downtown, Hollywood Paramounts—The Paleface
on the Moon [RKO); Trouble Preferred (20th-
Fox) 180
Carthay— Portrait of Jennie (SRO). 2nd wk 150
Chinese, State, Uptown. Loyola—The Snake Pit
(Para) 175
........
Egyptian. Los Angeles, Wilshire Command Decision
iMGM). 2nd wk 160
Tour Music Halls—The Best Years of Our Lives
(RKO) 120
Four Star—Hamlet (U-I), roadshow, 10th wk 80
Pantages, Hillstreet — Enchantment (RKO), 2nd
wk.; Boston Blackie's Chinese Venture (Col) ISO
Warners Downtown, Hollywood, Wiltern — One
Sunday Afternoon (WB), 2nd wk 100
Kiddy Shows With Contests and Prizes
Are Money-Makers at Cedar City Park
San Francisco Boasts
Three High Grossers
SAN FRANCISCO—Three top honors were
vied for during the current week with "The
Paleface" looking mighty healthy at the Para- ^. -V i^,
mount opening with a loud 185 per cent. Right ij jSp
in there with 180 per cent was "Yellow Sky" ig^ 'if j
W
at the Fox. taking over second spot honors. ,^f
v
^^BiHw
And proving its point quite conclusively that f
\»8flj
"Every Girl Should Be Married." the Golden A^^
Gate boasted 175. Quite a surprise was the H^.
weak 105 per cent managed by the St. Francis ^
with the opening of "The Accused."
Esquire—Bed River (UA), 11th d. t. wk 1C0
Fox—Yellow Sky (20th-Fox); Bungalow 13 (20th-
8 °
CEDAR CITY. UTAH-Saturday kiddy
GoUe'n Gate-Every Girl
(RKO). Indian Agent (RKO: 175 matinees are a money-making proposition
°s F h e m 0ctol>er (Col); McaJto
ec
ret (C?:f "nTwk '* ' ias for Parks Theatre operator John Rowberry,
Paramount—The Paleface (Pari); Disaster (Para). .185 who throughout the season turns his theatre
St. Francis—The Accused (Para) 105 over to tne kids, contests and specially se-
S, S n (FK ?e iss ues
he .^.....^l.^" ..*°^100 lected shows every Saturday afternoon.
United Artists—The Best Years of Our Lives Through a tieup with the Deseret News,
Uni^'Nations-F^trsialRKO,; reissue::::::!oS
Salt Lake City newspaper, its southern Utah
Warlield-Words and Music of (MGM), Code representative, Smoot Seaman, and local
Scotland Yard (Rep) 140 merchants, Rowberry has developed the kiddy
matinee into a crowd-enticing event.
'Paleface' Does Top Business The volume of attendance drawn to the
For Seattle at Liberty kiddy matinees is shown in the upper left
SEATTLE-In an otherwise dull week, "The Photo above where many youngsters are ac-
Paleface" grossed a shining 230 to far out- companied by brothers and sisters and even
distance rivals. Playing at William Edris' Lib- tneir parents.
Admission to the matinees is by a comic
erty.
were
it brought
looking
them
for
in while
business.
other
"Blood
houses
on the Page from the newspaper and most of the
Moon" was the closest competitor, with 135 at P e °
f the tickets 1S footed ** the mer "
~ ^^..DO played in the theatre lobby as shown in the
""
''Parofeilnc.-Eu'
Llberly-The Paleface i.Para): Racing Luck (Col). .230 bottom left photo and ranged from the bit';
D U5
YOU
Bodyguard rRKOK 3 'd d
I u
?A 100 cycles pictured there to ice cream, airplane
Music Hal unfaithfully Yours (20th-Fox),- troiibU rides, money and toy automobiles. In the
P ' clcrred
Bungalow" 13 bottom right photo Smoot Seaman is shown
awarding one winner a Thimble Dome racer.
2nd 75
Mexi ean Hayride r
(20th-Fox),
Pa T
L£cenT7u
wk
n rr0m Momi'>
2na w k
e
(Col);
7b Contests at the Parks matinees included
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949 W
bubble gum blowing matches and balloonblowing
sprees. In the center left photo
Inez Reives Urie, extreme right, is shown
directing the youngsters in the balloonblowing
contest. Sometimes, however, the
youngsters get overly eager. The lad on the
left in the picture failed to win the contest
because he blew his balloon so high that it
popped. Spelling contests also are held and
the manager of the local radio station is rung
in on the Saturday affair to act as master
of ceremonies.
As for the features shown at the kiddy
matinees. Rowberry tries to pick that product
which he thinks the kids will enjoy. He says
the youngsters like hair-raising drama and
abhor love scenes. Once, he adds, the hero
of a particularly sentimental picture actually
was booed right off the screen. Rowberry
goes even further by asking the kids what
they like and he says their preference is
films such as "Song of the South," "Green
Grass of Wyoming," 'Bob. Son of Battle"
and "Lassie, Come Home." Rowberry says the
children probably liked the latter two films
because they were made near Cedar City.
There's no discipline problem for the kids
at the Parks either and Row-berry says very
few youngsters misbehave. They are cared
for by matrons provided by the recreation
committee of the coordinating council.
Gl

—
^,

. . Joann
. . Filmrow
. . Both
. . Evergreen
. . Russ
. . Sam
DENVER
/"•ooper Foundation Theatres made a contribution
of $1,000 to the Kiwanis club,
Pueblo, for use in the club's program for
delinquent and predelinquent children. The
check was presented by Jack Bruno, city
manager for the theatre company . . . Russell
Allen is building a 550-seat, $100,000 theatre
in Farmington, N. M.. where he already owns
another. The new theatre will be given an
Indian name. Totah, and is scheduled to open
in the spring.
Christmas greetings that attracted merited
praise were the ones sent out by Frank H.
Ricketson jr., president of Fox Intermountain
Theatres, and Ralph Batschelet, Paramount
Theatre manager. "Rick's" was a Christmas
card with four generations pictured—Mr. and
Mrs. Frank H. Ricketson sr., jr.. and III. together
with the youngest, the daughter of
Mr. and Mrs. F. H. R. III. F. H. R. Ill is
manager of the Mayan. The Batschelet
greeting was another in the series of booklets
issued annually by the Batschelet family,
Lillian, Ralph and Beverly, and contains inspired
thoughts and phrases, original and
otherw-ise. accumulated during the year.
Clarence Olson, former UA manager here,
now in the same job in San Francisco, and
wife holidayed in Denver and Pueblo . . .
Henry LeClair has returned to Denver from
Scarsdale. N. Y.. where he managed the
Scarsdale. Not being able to get used to so
much snow and cold weather, he returned
here to manage the Federal.
John Bertalero, president of Black Hills
Amusement Co., is in Los Angeles on a vacation
and business trip . . . Charles Klein of
the same company went to Minnesota for the
same reasons . Livingston, secretary
at Allied offices, went to Kansas City
for the holidays . . . S. R. Wallace, Confidential
Reports manager, has been promoted
to Los Angeles. He is succeeded by R. L.
Nesbit, moved here from Atlanta . . . Gene
Gerbase, Republic manager, and Mrs. Gerbase.
went to Albuquerque on their Christmas
vacation.
Tom Bailey has resigned as manager for
Film Classics and has taken over the Screen
Guild franchise from H. V. George, who has
returned to Hollywood. Bailey has been succeeded
at FC by Philip Monsky.
Ben Wright has sold the Pine at Buena
Vista to Joe Delongchamp ... On her holiday
trip Pauline Hall, manager's secretary at
Paramount branch, went to Phoenix and
Yuma, Ariz., by train, then to Los Angeles
and back to Denver by plane, making the
trip from Los Angeles to Denver in about
three
hours.
Jim Ricketts, Paramount booker, holidayed
at his old home, Des Moines, bucking snow
and ice most of the way. But when he hit
Colorado on the return trip he really made
time . . . Bern Mariner, former office manager
here for United Artists, now branch
manager for them at St. Louis, visited friends
here . . . William Sombar, United Artists
salesman, was at home over the holidays with
the chicken pox . visitors included
Frank Aydelotte, Fort Collins; Gayle Poland,
Oak Creek: Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Peery,
Limon. Neb.
Warren and O'Connor,
Asked to Dimes Rally
LOS ANGELES— Gov. Earl Warren and
Basil O'Connor, head of the National Foundation
for Infantile Paralysis, have been invited
to be the featured speakers at a luncheon
meeting set for January 10, to be attended
by circuit and independent exhibitors, at
which southern California showmen's part
in the upcoming March of Dimes campaign
Earlier Skouras had disclosed that for the
first time in several years, because of the
seriousness of the infantile paralysis epidemic
in 1948, FWC and National Theatres units
will pass the hat among theatre audiences
to raise funds for the Dimes drive.
Toys Admit Portland Patrons
PORTLAND—A new or old toy admitted
one to a special Toy and Joy movie shown
at seven Portland theatres the Saturday before
Christmas. Toys collected were distributed
to children of needy families on Christmas
day. Sponsors for the Toy and Joy
screen shows were Mrs. J. J. Parker, Mayfair;
M. M. Mesher, 21st Avenue; Leo Pallay,
Moreland: Mrs. K. W. Cockerline, Plaza;
C. L. McNeil, Roseway; Jesse E. Jones, Irvington;
Stanton Smith. St. Johns, and Jesse
E. Jones.
SEATTLE
Qhris Casper, manager of the Coliseum, tied
in with the city's bowling alleys by giving
passes for top league scores in connection
with the bowling scenes in "Road House."
In turn, the alleys put in elaborate displays
on the picture . the Hamrick-Evergreen
and Sterling circuits used elaborate
New Year's' eve newspaper ad layouts—the
former a half-page and Sterling a 2x16 for
its
subsequent run houses.
will be discussed.
Plans for the luncheon meeting
Bob Monaghan, manager of the Mount
were discussed
by the Southern
Baker in Bellingham. packed his theatre for
California Theatre
committee,
president of
of
Fox
which
West
Charles
Coast,
P. Skouras,
chairman.
a car giveaway during the holidays ... Ed
Hamrick, assistant manager of the Paramount,
was
is
Members of the group include Dave
home from the hospital recuperating
from
Bershon,
Ben Wallerstein,
a heart ailment Seigel,
Hugh Bruen, Sherrill Corwin,
Gus Metzger. Paul
Columbia's west coast publicity head, was
Williams, George
Bowser, Marco Wolff and Jack Y. Berman.
to lay out a here campaign on "The Return
of October" . has launched
Added to Yam Theatre Staff
PORTALES—Manager Russell Ackley has
revealed the addition of Joseph James to the
staff of the Yam Theatre. James has been
with Theatre Enterprises, Inc., for 12 years
and came here from Gallup.
a winter drive dedicated to President Frank
L. Newman sr. and his 42nd year in show
business.
Clint Wineholdt, manager of the Liberty,
was busy checking his 4x14 "The Paleface"
ad for New Year's eve . Morgan,
RKO exploiteer, reported an enjoyable time
over the holidays . . . Bill Cooley, city manager
for Evergreen in Everett, made some
wonderful tieups and grabbed a lot of free
space for his Boys club film . . . The Paramount.
Orpheum and Fifth Avenue showed
preview attractions in addition to their top
features after 5 p.
m. New Year's eve.
Directs Dialog of "Dear Wife'
Ronnie Lubin has been signed as dialog
director of "Dear Wife" for Paramount.
RCA-Brenkert Theatre Equipment Dealer I
U.S.
Airco Distributor
WESTERN SERVICE S SUPPLY. .upply. INC. mc. I
| 2121 Denver 2. Colo. M
NOW AVAILABLE AT
DENVER, COLO., -LAWRENCE, KANS.
The NEW Extra-Volume
T-N-T "3 3" popcorn
New Crop Hybrid Yellow — Special for Poppers
ALSO: T-N-T 10c CARTONS — SEASONING — SALT
A Single "Direct" Source for Your Popcorn Needs
Write, Wire or Phone
THE BARTELDES SEED COMPANY
1521 - 15th Street, Denver, Colo. (Tabor 4211)
804 Massachusetts Street, Lawrence, Kans. (Phone 505)
Established 1867
BOXOFTICE 63

Sydney Manager Builds Goodwill
By Special Screenings for Family
By WILLIAM BEECHAM
Australian Bureau, Boxoffice
PERTH, W. A.—According to the Sydney
Morning Herald, at least one suburban theatre
manager knows how to build up goodwill.
A Sydney resident was told that a newsreel,
being screened at rhe local theatre, showed
her husband in London. So along to the
theatre she went, accompanied by her youngsters.
Greatly to their disappointment, the
particular newsreel was not shown. At the
end of the performance, the young woman
asked the manager where she might, at some
later date, see the newsreel. "You can see it
here and now, madam,"' he replied, and thereupon
had the newsreel screened for the sole
benefit of the lady and her youngsters.
What a pity more managers are not as
enterprising. Although the main circuits have
first rate managers and well trained staffs,
some staff work these days is appalling.
Usherettes seem far more interested in talking
to each other than in looking after the
seating of patrons, and rudeness in reply to
queries is far too common.
Recently, in Perth, one leading theatre
screened a short subject about Babe Ruth.
In Perth there are hundreds of keen baseball
players and fans. The short was not advertised,
nor were the baseball clubs advised of
the showing. The majority of the city's baseball
fans would have visited the theatre for
the sole purpose of seeing the short, but few
knew anything about it until too late. Still.
one hears complaints that business is poor.
A 10-minute Department of Information
Short, "Public Enemy," dealing with vandalism,
will be distributed and screened free
of charge by the Australian film industry.
Distribution has been arranged by Universal,
and already Hoyts, Acme and other New
South Wales circuits have arranged screenings.
After allowing for taxation, the net profit
of J. C. Williamson, Ltd.. for the financial
year ending last June 30 rose to £38,055, compared
with £34.020 the previous 12 months.
The common stock remains unchanged at 6
per cent.
Veteran Westralian showman Hamilton
Brown will take talkies to the popular Garden
Island holiday resort for the first time this
Sound equipment and a prefabricated
box have been assembled in Perth and will
be shipped to the island before Christmas.
Brown has contracted to supply the island
with entertainment for five years.
John C. Glass, general manager of Hoyts
Theatres, recently returned to Australia from
a visit to the United States. While there, he
says, he was struck by the communityminded
attitude so noticeable in every sec-
gated a number of phases of the industry,
particularly those applying to theatre design
and construction, presentation policies, confectionery
vending, maintenance, staff training
and operating methods.
It is reported that during the past year
the Australian Motion Picture Benevolent society
collected some £11,000 and distributed
£4.080 to worthy cases.
It is expected that the new censorship bill,
now before the New South Wales paliament.
will be passed and become operative about
April. The bill would put the state regulations
on the same footing as those in Victoria.
Queensland and Tasmania. South Australia
and western Australia are expected to
put forward similar legislation, thereby making
regulations nationwide. Main feature of
the legislation is that on Saturdays and public
holidays and at special weekday matinees
during school term holidays only films approved
by the censor as suitable for general
exhibition will be allowed to be screened before
5:30 p. m.
It is announced that Gene Autry will appear
at the Sydney Sports Ground next September
and theatrical producer Harry Wren
states that Autry hopes to make two films
in Australia. Olsen & Johnson also are said
to be revisiting Australia shortly, but Wren
states that Bing Crosby will not, after all,
make the trip down under.
The Australasian Exhibitor, published in
Sydney, N.S.W., in a recent front page
article, concludes that the drive-in theatre
is a "new fad in motion picture entertainment"
which has grown up in "crowded"
America, but distinctly is not for Australia.
Australia, the Exhibitor predicts, probably
will not reach the "crowded" condition of
the U.S. for 50 years or more, and warns
a Sydney business group planning to start
a drive-in circuit there that the project would
prove a "very sorry investment."
The article was based on a report on the
development of U.S. drive-ins reportedly
made by a special investigator appointed by
the Australian Motion Picture Exhibitors
Ass'n.
"The story of drive-in theatres can make
fascinating reading to the uninitiated, nad
those with little knowledge of the motion
picture business might be easily tempted
to put good money into what we are now
convinced would be a sorry investment."
"Drive-ins have shown themselves to be
a menace to regular theatres, nationally
known as the rendezvous for necking parties.
In Australia our districts are not so crowded,
and there are innumerable quiet and secluded
spots to which lovers may speed.
"With regard to practical difficulties, first
we would have to secure an area capable
not only of parking 1,000 cars but also of
permitting their maneuverability in safety.
Next we would require traffic attendants to
cost of establishing such a theatre in America
is between $300,000 and $400,000. Then
we shall have to face a long series of objections.
"Objectors will bear in mind the reputation
which drive-ins have won in America—
a reputation for immorality, easy drinking
and reckless driving. Police complain that
they are almost powerless to control the
drinking of liquor in a licensed enclosure.
"Then you would be the target for attacks
from the church because of the immorality
of the shows, from motorists because
of the misuse of petrol, from the homeless
because of the use of needed building
materials, and from traffic officers for letting
loose a thousand reckless-drunken-careless
drivers!
"No, perhaps after all we had better keep
to our own way of life," the story concludes,
"and run our shows accordingly."
The recent annual report of the Victorian
Cinematograph Exhibitors Ass'n doesn't make
happy reading, for it strongly stresses the
fact that there has been a decline in business
over the last 12 months. It points out
that this was in great measure due to steady
spiraling of the cost of living, added to
which a most severe winter kept many people
in their homes, particularly at night.
But it also draw r s attention to its contention
that a "lack of quality" in many of
the films released did not help the industry
in any way.
It reveals that its membership at the end
of the financial year showed an increase of
26 per cent, including a substantial number
of Tasmanian members. As a heavy drain
was placed upon its finances by continued
industrial problems, it points out that the
current financial position, funds totaling approximately
$3,000, cannot be regarded with
equanimity. Therefore, members, subscriptions
are to be raised 10 per cent.
Recent industrial troubles, particularly the
widespread but short-lived coal strike, have
been ably met by members of the New South
Wales film industry. When cartage of films
was refused by the goods section of the local
railroads, a rapid move by officials of the
industry secured permission for the films
to be sent by passenger trains. Then arrangements
were made to forward publicity
matter by parcel post.
Representations were made for the issue
of extra gasoline for the running of auxiliarypower
plants, together with additional hourage
in the use of electric light, and negotiations
were proceeding favorably when the
troubles suddenly ended. But the industry
showed that it does not intend to let such
troubles overwhelm it without a really firstclass
struggle.
Again the question of "offensive" films is
being ventilated in the federal house of representatives.
This time Mrs. Blackburn, Independent
Labor. Victoria, has appealed for
"the protection of children from the screening
of 'offensive' films," and she has suggested
that on Saturday afternoons, at least,
only films suitable for children should be
shown. In reply, the Minister of Information.
Mr. Caldwell, has said that the com-
tion of the film industry. "In sharp contrast
to the comparative indifference of the Australian
monwealth film censor is responsible for the
direct all drivers to tiers from which they
press," he adds, "I found that Ameri-
could view the screen, and from which they censoring of all films before they are remonwealth
can newspapers were intensely interested in could return to the roadways.
leased for screening, and he has added that
motion pictures, giving them wide editorial "The cost of an electrical installation state authorities have sole control over the
own would be formidable. In fact, the accepted
coverage." During his visit, Glass investi-
exhibition of films within their boun-
64 BOXOFFICE

daries, once they have been passed for exhibition
by the commonwealth censor.
What seems to escape the notice of so
many of the people who complain of "offensive"
films being screened is that the
great majority of exhibitors, of their own
free will, are only too anxious to screen films
suitable for youngsters on all Saturday matiness—but
what youngsters enjoy and what
some adults think suitable for youngsters are
not always one and the same thing.
It is reported that Hoyts Theatres have
secured "a large share" of the British Empire
Films releases for the coming year.
These will include films from Selznick, Ealing
studios, Associated British, Republic, Allied
Artists, Monogram and Eagle Lion.
After having been closed for two months,
the Savoy Theatre, Melbourne, recently reopened
with the British feature, "No Orchids
for Miss Blandish," which drew excellent
business. The theatre has been thoroughly
reconditioned and redecorated. There
is a new ceiling, and lighting and ventilation
have been renewed. New carpets also
have been laid.
There is no confirmation from 20th Century-Fox
that Tyrone Power may come to
Australia to make a film based on the story
of the overland telegraph line. But the
rumor still persists that the company intends
to use some of its frozen funds in Australian
production.
R. C. Brauer, secretary of RKO in Australia,
recently retired after 34 years in the
Australian film industry. At the company's
recent annual convention, Mr. Ralph Doyle,
managing director of the company in Australia
and New Zealand, presented Brauer
with several handsome gifts.
Nick Pery, managing director of Columbia
Pictures in Australia and the producer
of the successful film, "Smithy," will leave
for the United States on the Aorangi on
December 23 for a short business visit.
Actress Heads Heart Ass'n
HOLLYWOOD—Irene Dunne has been
named to head the national women's committee
of the American Heart Ass'n. The
appointment of the screen actress to the post
was made by Harold E. Stassen, national
chairman of the organization.
Writer Kay Van Riper Dies
LOS ANGELES—Funeral services were
held in the Wee Kirk o' the Heather here
for Kay Van Riper, 40, screen and radio
writer. Miss Van Riper is survived by her
mother, Mrs. Amy Van Riper.
Jones Enterprises Buys
Gamble Oregon Houses
LOS ANGELES—Purchase of the Ted Gamble
theatre interests in Oregon by Jones Enterprises
and the Western Amusement Co.
for an unannounced sum was disclosed by
Ted Jones, president of the two concerns, at
their home offices here.
Acquisition of the Gamble interests by those
of Ted Jones makes the latter the largest
independent theatre group in Oregon. Busi-
Bruce Kennedy, who has been the Sydney
branch manager for Warner
Ted Jones, who this week acquired Ted
Bros, since 1940,
with a break of four years during which
Gamble's Oregon theatres, is shown at
he
the right, in a photograph taken recently
served with the armed forces, has been appointed
sales manager for the company. He
with Jimmy Wakely (center),
home
western
star,
and end
and Barnes Perdue, office
joined the firm in 1933, since the
executive for Western Amusement Co.
of the war he has been the winner of three
sales contests organized by the company.
Gordon Williams, who long has been head
now becomes
ness operations of the two companies, as well
as individual enterprises of Ted Jones, will
office sales representative,
branch manager in Sydney.
continue to be conducted from the local offices.
ELEVEN THEATRES INVOLVED
The transaction includes ten theatres now
in operation and one under construction.
Transfer of operation of the various properties
will be on February 12.
With the personal interests of Ted Jones
and Louis Long, the combined companies now
operate approximately 60 theatres. No changes
in home office personnel, which includes
Henry Lockhart, W. G. McKinney, Barnes
Perdue, Wayne Patterson and Al Lohman,
were planned.
Jones Enterprises, Inc., and the Western
Amusement Co. will continue to operate a
group of California and Arizona theatres, and
further expansion is planned in the two
states. New houses are to be constructed in
Barstow and Victorville, Calif., a lease on a
new theatre at Corona Del Mar, Calif., is to
be taken over, and extensive remodeling of
the 1,500-seat Bard here is being planned.
Construction of a proposed theatre in Encino,
Calif., is expected to be started following
completion of changes in plans for the house.
REMODELING IS PLANNED
Partial remodeling and improvement of
various theatres now operated by the companies,
as well as those acquired in the Ted
Gamble purchase, is being planned. Many
changes of managers at the theatres are to
be made, since none of the present Gamble
managers are to be retained.
Tom Blair of Eugene. Ore., has been appointed
district manager of the new operations
and those of the Western Amusement
Co. in Oregon. Bill Jenkins. Los Angeles
booker, will be transferred to Portland to
handle buying and booking under the supervision
of Henry Lockhart, who will direct
those activities for Ted Jones, the Western
Amusement Co. and Jones Enterprises, Inc.
Lockhart will continue to maintain offices
here, but he will go to Portland frequently to
supervise activities there.
Film Man Jack Flannery
Is Buried at Seattle
SEATTLE—Funeral services were held here
December 28 for R. J. "Jack" Flannery,
branch manager for National Screen Service,
who died Christmas day following a heart
attack. Flannery was 51 years old and had
been active in the industry for 25 years. He
had been with National Screen for the last
17 years.
He is survived by his wife, Vida V. of
Seattle and a brother Theodore of Los Angeles.
He was a member of the American
Legion and a veteran of World War I.
Pallbearers were Herbert Cass, Portland,
and A. W. Hartford, Carl Mahne, Fred Danz,
Maurice Saffle and V. Stewart, all of Seattle.
Hobby Horse Giveaway
Deals in 65 Theatres
SAN FRANCISCO—Maurice Zell has completed
deals with 65 theatres for his hobby
horse giveaway, described as a community
goodwill promotion and boxoffice stimulant.
Zell is originator and sole owner of the giveaway.
Pine-Beaumont Nuptials
LOS ANGELES—Howard Pine, 32, associate
producer for Pine & Thomas Productions
at Paramount studios, recently was
married to Judith Beaumont, 23, of Beverly
Hills and San Francisco. Pine is the son of
William Pine, film producer. The ceremony
was conducted in the chapel of the Chapman
Park hotel, followed by a reception and
a honeymoon trip to Las Vegas.
Fire Damage Repaired
OURAY, COLO.—The Ouray Theatre reopened
recently after completion of repairs
to damages incurred in a fire about six weeks
ago. Repairs included installation of fireproof
booths, new projectors and other equipment.
SPECIAL TRAILERS
BEST BY TEST
QUICKER THAN THE REST!
FILMACK
CHICAGO 1327 S. Wabash Ave.
NEW YORK 245 Weit 55th St.
BOXOFTICE January 8. 1949
64-A

. . . Harley
. . The
. . Formerly
. . . Jack
. . Kroger
. . New
. . . January
. . . Managing
. . Bonuses
. . Erv
. . Leo
. . Louis
. . Herb
LOS
ANGELES
Dalph Perkins and Alarik Soderberg sold
their lease on a 1,000-seat house now under
construction in Corona Del Mar to the
Western Amusement Co. .
with the
Harry Taylor popcorn machine outfit. Herb
Goldberg now is with Eagle Lion as salesman
Williams is the new shipper at
the Monogram exchange.
Completely recuperated, Hal Gallatin, Republic
head shipper, returned to his duties
after undergoing an appendectomy . . . After
nine years with Columbia. Al Altshuler has
switched to the Republic sales department.
with an out-of-town territory . . . Jack Grossman
was aiming for a January 30 opening for
his new Sherman. 490-seater in North Hollywood
. Arlington has dropped out of
the local circuit known as the Five Academies
of Proven Hits.
Bob Aoelson, Film Classics district manager
pulled cut for San Frrncisco and Seattle
for branch huddles contract clerk
at FC is Betty Doberman, who formerly was
with Warners ... A personnel switch found
Norman Neuman, formerly with the Fox
Principal circuit, booking for Sherrill Corwin's
Metropolitan chain, while Irving Breur
has joined Principal in Neuman's old spot
Broder chose Moses Hernandez to
manager his California, which features Spanish-language
films. Hernandez formerly
owned the Kiva and San Carlo theatres.
.
There was champagne galore when W. H.
Turpie. division manager for Manley, Inc.,
was host at an office party for his customers
and friends Babb of Hygienic
Productions checked in after spending the
holidays in Wilmington. Ohio, site of Hyg.enic's
home office.
Funeral services were held for Donald
Rudd, 60, a member of projectionists Local
150 and Studio Projectionists Local 165. He
is survived by his wife and two children.
Rudd had been employed at Columbia studio
15 was the date set for the marriage
of William H. Oldknow. drive-in operator
and son of Oscar Oldknow. and Dina
Skouras. niece of Spyros Skouras. They'll
wed at St. John's Episcopal church . . Construction
.
has been launched by Don
Guttman
on a 900-car ozoner in southeast Los Angeles.
It is Guttman's second local drive-in venture,
with work also under way on an 800-
car project in San Pedro.
Earl Stein, formerly with RKO, is now a
Paramount salesman Simon is handling
publicity for M. Baum. new owner of
the Melvan Theatre Moldo has
taken over the Hub Theatre from Jack Keen
the new Rio, a unit in the
Southside Theatres chain, is Jerry Simmons,
former treasurer of the Downtown Paramount
were handed out to
managers and office personnel when the
Vinnicof circuit staged its annual Christmas
party at the Melody Lane Mac-
Intyre, RKO division manager, returned from
a swing around the western exchange centers.
Mel Evidon has joined the Columbia sales
staff. Formerly with Columbia in Des
Moines, he has been operating a theatre
brokerage business here for some months
... J. J. O'Loughlin, United Artists man-
ager, is back on the job after a flying trip
to San Francisco Burok has taken
over the Granada Theatre from Charles
Mofrey. and will change its name to the
Muriel after a complete redecorating job.
FOR
BEAUTIFUL,
ROCK STEADY PROJ ECTION
FOR LIFELIKE SOUND GET
MOTIOGRAPH
AND HAVE THE FINEST
FOR
DRIVE.INS
a complete line of proven central loudspeaker, post-type
and in car speaker equipment.
FOR LONG, TROUBLE-FREE SERVICE
Monograph has equipment especially designed for theatres
of all sizes.
Reopen at Garden Grove
After Remodeling Work
GARDEN GROVE. CALIF.—The Gem Theatre
here has reopened after a three-month
closure for renovations which included reupholstering
and replacement of seats, elevation
of the floor and new carpets. Leslie E.
White is manager of the Gem, and, with his
wife and her mother Mrs. Alex Dahl, is part
owner of the house.
ATTRACTIVE POPCORN BOXES
Printed in Red and White
$7.50 per thousand
Complete Popcorn Supplies
ARTHUR UNGER CO., INC.
1 05 Golden Gate Ave. San Francisco 2, Cat.
For
Quick
Write for literature today or see your Motiograph dealer.
SERVICE THEATRE SUPPLY CO.. 2054 Broadway. Denver. Colo.

. . . Bill
. . Ada
. The
. . The
. . Williard
. . Dean
I
SAN FRANCISCO
Ctill unsettled is the new contract between
Theatrical Janitors Local 121 and Alameda
theatres. The present contract expired
December 31. In negotiations now being carried
on here, the union is asking a pay raise
from $10.50 to $12 a day. increased compensation
for holiday work and a pension plan.
Arvid A. Erickson, manager of the Cerrito
Theatre in El Cerrito for the last two years,
has been transferred to a similar position at
the Berkeley Theatre in Berkeley. His successor
at the Cerrito will be George DeWeese.
present manager of the Vita . . . Walter Bell,
operator of the Maribel in Weott, has instituted
several improvements in the house.
New carpeting has been installed as well as
redecorations on the outside of the theatre.
DENVER EL STAFF—Photo of the Eagle Lion sales staff, Denver, taken during
the visit of Milt Cohen, New York, Jack Schlaifer drive captain. Left to right, A. G.
Edwards, office manager; Frank Sheffield, salesman; Dick Ivy, manager; M. R.
Austin, manager; Paul Snoddy, salesman, and Cohen.
Charles "Buddy" Rogers was master of
ceremonies recently at the celebration of
Kitty Hawk day, the 45th anniversary of the
first flight by Orville Wright. The celebration
was at the Alameda naval air station
officers' club . . . Victor McLaglen was in
Berkeley recently visiting the son of Mrs.
Margaret Pumphrey. whom he recently married
. McCoulough won a $10 prize in
a coloring contest sponsored by the Golden
Gate Theatre and a neighborhood paper to
promote "The Last Days of Pompeii" and
"She."
Hal Flanagan, former Eagle Lion booker,
is a salesman with the local Favorite Films
exchange, not a booker as previously reported.
Jack Bettencourt is the Favorite Films booker
David, Design & Decorations, was
out of town for a few days . Barrett
is no longer associated with Maurice Zell,
originator and owner of the Hobbyhorse giveaway.
.
.
Leonard "Bucky" Williams has assumed
management of the Esquire in Fresno, replacing
Robert Corbin, who is now district
manager in Eureka Welsch is
the new manager at the Guild Theatre here,
replacing Myron Nunes. who is now in the
east. Welsch was with the Broadway in Oakland
Acme Theatre here has been
sold to Henry Bluechel by Marie Marks.
The Liberty Theatre has undergone a modernization
program and emerges as the World
Theatre. Now operated by the Golden State
circuit, the World will have a policy of foreign
films mainly Italian and will be reopened in
6 or 8 weeks . Golden State and T&D
circuits began a circuit business drive honoring
President Mike Naify. The drive will
run for three months and prizes will be
awarded for best showmanship, housekeeping
and promotion. Prizes will be awarded
for a grand district winner. 10 district winners
and a grand second district winner.
F.mmrtt Shane, house manager at the Paramount
here, is on leave of absence due to illness
and Tony Rodriguez, assistant at the
St. Francis has taken over as house manager
at the Paramount . . . Carol Nathan, El Presidio
and Marina theatres, returned from a
holiday visit with his daughter in Los Angeles.
New Speakers Installed
MELROSE. N. M.—A new Voice of the Theatre
speaker system has been installed at the
Rialto Theatre here.
New Equipment at Kuna
KUNA, IDAHO—The Kuna Theatre was
reopened recently after installation of new
sound and projection equipment and a new
screen. Other improvements made at the
theatre included redecoration and recushioning
of seats.
TO ALL EXHIBITORS
This is to notify the trade that
MR. DEAN BARRETT
Ed Gates Named Manager
SAN RAFAEL, CALIF.—Ed Gates has been
named manager of the El Camino Theatre
here for Blumenfeld Theatres. Gates has
been with the circuit for 12 years. He formerly
managed the Esquire in San Francisco
and the T&D in Oakland.
is no longer employed as salesman by Maurice Zell
who is the originator and sole owner of the
hobbyhorse giveaway.
All future correspondence should be addressed
directly
to
MAURICE ZELL
308 Eddy St., San Francisco 12, Calif.
HOBBY HORSE GIVEAWAY IS TAKING THE
COUNTRY BY STORM!
No Cost to Exhibitor — Increases Boxoffice
Receipts.
Inquire Without Obligation
MAURICE ZELL
308 Eddy St. San Francisco 2. California
Vin/M'Dr'U/ru
THE MODERN NEW LOOK .
IN THEATRE
AND STAGE CURTAINS
DRAPERIES | far y.«r artracti,
Completely f
B. F. SHEARER COMPANY
SATISFACTION GUARANTEED b
January 8.
184fl
G4-C

—
—
Victor Fleming Dead;
Veteran Film Director
COTTONWOOD. ARIZ. — Victor Fleming,
3. who directed such important motion pictures
as "Gone With
the Wind," "Captains
Courageous,"
"The Virginian" and
«
attack
the current "Joan of
Arc." died unexpectedly
of a heart
in an automobile
as he was
being rushed to a
hospital. He had
been vacationing at
a nearby ranch with
his wife and two
daughters,
Victoria,
14. and Sally. 11.
Fleming was a
Victor Fleming veteran in the film
business, having started as a cameraman in
1910. Following service in the World War I.
he took up directorial reins—his first effort
was "Till the Clouds Roll By" which starred
Douglas Fairbanks. He liked the adventurous
type of story, and one of his major successes
was the result of a world camera tour. It
was the story of the trip, "Around the World
in 80 Minutes" and was a hit in 1931. He
made the trip with Fairbanks, who also
starred in the picture.
His greatest achievement was "Gone With
the Wind." which he directed for Selznick.
For it. he was awarded the 1939 Oscar for
best direction of the year. Among the stars
he had directed during the silent days of
motion pictures were Constance Talmadge,
Dorothy and Lillian Gish and Emil Jannings.
As a cameraman, he had been associated with
such early producing companies as Kalem,
Artcraft, Fine Arts and with David Wark
Griffith.
He was born in Pasadena, and his adventurous
nature led him into automobile
racing on Los Angeles dirt tracks. Knowledge
of the mechanics of automobiles led
to repairing cameras when Hollywood was
young: then to camerawork itself, to his
career as one of the industry's top directors.
Garland Theatre Redone
GARLAND. UTAH—The Main Theatre was
closed for three days recently during redecoration
of the interior which included repaperlng
and repainting throughout. The
Main is owned by the Allied Theatres Co.
Be Glad!
Stay Glad!
Buy MANLEV
W H. TUBP1E. Western Division Manager
1914 So. Vermont. RE 7528 Los Angeles 7, Calii.
brQrickAcH*.!
THEATRE
THEATRE EXCHANGE CO.
201 Fmt Arts Bhlo Portland S. Orrnon
Granada Loses $2,883
In Bakersfield Theft
BAKERSFIELD, CALIF.—Burglars broke
into the Granada Theatre here during the
night of December 26 and wheeled away a
1.400-pound safe which contained $2,883 in
cash and checks, it was reported to police by
Roy Lemucchi, manager.
The safe was in the office on the second
floor, and the thieves entered the theatre
by forcing the front door between closing
time and 6:15 in the morning. The big safe
apparently was wheeled on to a waiting
truck, and, according to police, it must have
taken at least "four husky men" to get the
safe down the stairway to the truck. Rollers
used to move the safe were found in the
theatre, and four doors had been smashed.
one of which was a fireproof door leading
to the office.
'Musketeers' Hits 200
To Pace Denver Trade
DENVER—"The Three Musketeers" packed
the Orpheum, largest theatre here, to the
rafters and rated a record week. Other holdovers
included "A Song Is Born" at the
Broadway, "The Paleface" at the Denham
and "Shoe-Shine" at the Vogue. A blizzard
which began Sunday afternoon clipped busi-
(Average Is 100)
Aladdin—Rogues' Regiment (U-I)j Solia (FC). 4th
Broadway—A Song Is Bora (RKO)
Denham—The Paleface (Para), 2nd wk
Denver and Esquire One Sunday Afternoon
(WB); The Feathered Serpent (Mono) .
Orpheum—The Three Musketeers (MGM
Paramount and Webber—Yellow Sky (20th-Fox);
Million Dollar Weekend (EL)
Rialto Canyon Passage (U-I), Frontier Gal (U-l).
Voque
Shoe-Shine (Lopert)
Townsfolk Build Airer
TUSTIN, CALIF.—A community project
has begun here with virtually every civic
organization contributing either money or
labor toward construction of an open-air
theatre and fireplace on the elementary
school grounds. Clubs are selling magazines
and cookies and are turning out in large
numbers to help with the actual labor. The
open airer is planned to hold 250 persons.
Ouray Theatre Reopened
OURAY, COLO.—Les McClary, manager of
the Ouray here, has replaced projection
equipment destroyed in a recent fire and
business has been resumed. New projection
booths are in prefabricated form and are as
nearly fireproof as it is possible to make
them, McClary declares.
Marlow Presents Matinees
HELENA, MONT. — Children's matinees
were shown at the Marlow Theatre during the
Christmas vacation.
THE MODERN PROJECTOR
Screen Club Launches
Drive for Members
DENVER—The Rocky Mountain Screen
club is inaugurating a drive to boost its membership
to 250 from the present 215. The club
has just opened its new $10,000 screening
room, to be used for regular Tuesday and
Thursday evening screenings, and at other
times to be available for special screenings
and showings of educational and industrial
films. The club also plans to renovate downstairs
space into a banquet room to handle
parties of from 40 to 50 persons.
The club finished the year in excellent financial
condition, and it will continue participation
in charity projects. Its latest goodwill
move was to donate 24 table model radios
to the Denver General hospital. The
club is planning an orphans party for Easter.
with William Hastings, Orpheum manager
supervising details.
LUNCHEON EACH MONDAY
The club gives a luncheon every Monday
noon and a family dinner every Thursday
at
evening, with Saturday night set aside as
general club night.
Officers elected for 1949 include Robert
Hill, president: Pat McGee and Robert Selig,
vice-president: Kenneth MacKaig, secretary:
William Agren, treasurer, and Ken
Smith, counsel. Directors include the officers
and Joe H. Dekker, Robert J. Garland,
Ralph Batschelet. A. P. Archer. Fred Knill,
Bernie Hynes, Henry Friedel, Mel Glatz and
Kenneth MacKaig.
Hill has appointed these committees:
Membership — Henry Friedel. chairman:
Mayor Monsky, Fred Knill and Harry Green.
Entertainment — Bernie Hynes, chairman:
Frank H. Ricketson III. William Hastings,
William Dollison, Press Woods, Fred Reed.
Robert Lotito, Jack Copeland, Mayer Monsky,
Ray Davis, Charles DuRyk, Kenneth Mac-
Kaig and Ross MacCausland.
House—William Hastings, chairman: William
Dollison. Joe Ashby. M. R. Austin, Fred
Brown. Mayer Monsky, Harry Green and
Ralph Batschelet.
ON PUBLICITY COMMITTEE
Publicity—James Auten and Fred Reed, cochairmen
and Ralph Batschelet.
Field representatives — George Tawson,
chairman: Bruce Marshall and Jimmy Micheletti.
Public relations—Duke Dunbar, chairman;
Charles Gilmour, Ed Mapel. Harry Huffman
and Ed Schukte.
Charity and welfare—A. P. Archer, chairman:
Frank H. Ricketson jr.. Charles Gilmour
and Robert Hill.
Future planning—Robert Selig, chairman:
Frank H. Ricketson jr.. Joe Stone, Pat Mc-
Gee. Mel Glatz. Charles Gilmour, H. M. Mc-
Laren and Robert Hill.
Screen club News Editor—Robert Lotito.
Ladies committee—Edna Hynes. chairman;
Gertrude Bailey, vice-chairman: Jean Gerbase,
secretary-treasurer; Edith Halmi, Olive
Selig, Maxine Agren, Lillian Micheletti, Mildred
Friedel, Francis Auten and Helen Hastings.
Commend Bicycle Racks
PLACERVILLE, CALIF.—The city
council
gave a vote of commendation to the management
of the Empire here for the erection of a
bicycle rack in
front of the theatre.
64-D BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949

:
.
M & E
Managers and Supervisors at Semiannual Session
Distribution of bonus awards, reports and discussion of special
exploitation campaigns featured the one-day semiannual session of
MM Theatres recently in the Wisconsin hotel, Milwaukee. Among
those attending were Harry Mercher, Jacob Eskin, Mark Morgan,
William Saeger, Richard Saeger, Ben Feinberg, Irene Reichert,
Lillian Rozek, Dorothy Larson and Ruth Weiner, all from the Milwaukee
headquarters; James Thiele, Boscobel; Charles Nygaard,
Sun Prairie; Edward Scheer, Cedarburg; G. G. Waller, Sun Prairie;
J. K. Rupp, New Holstein; Charles Braun, Richland Center; Blanche
Fries, Hartford; Walter Nordquist, Evansville; Viola Nordquist,
Evansville; Walter Holt, Kaukauna; Armin Wirth, Elroy; Henry
Quartemont, Black River Falls; Harry Karp, Viroqua; Harold Saxlund,
Whitehall; Sam Morgan, Kiel; Stan Robinson, Dodgeville;
Alden Pratt, Mineral Point; Joe Hogen, Lancaster; Harry Day,
Darlington, and Ike Levy, Boscobel.
St. Louis Mayor Signs
Repeal of Ticket Tax
ST. LOUIS—Mayor Aloys P. Kaufman on
January 1 signed bills repealing the 5 per
cent municipal tax on theatre admissions and
reducing the city tax on cigarets from 3
cents to 2 cents per package. It is estimated
these measures will save "the taxpayers of the
city about $1,250,000 annually.
The bills passed the board of aldermen
without a dissenting vote, and enabled them
and Mayor Kaufman to keep their promise
to the people, made a year ago, that these
taxes were merely stop-gap measures which
would be repealed if and when the city was
authorized to impose a municipal earnings
tax.
"I am signing these bills," the mayor said
in a formal announcement, "because they
were intended, when the board of aldermen
adopted them at my insistence a year ago,
to be purely temporary. In the meantime,
the necessary state and local authorization
has been had for the municipal earnings tax
and it is now in effect.
"While I personally feel it would have been
desirable to wait until the yield of the earnings
tax had been determined with exactitude
before repealing these stopgap taxes, I
recognize that the repeal measures were
adopted by unanimous vote of the aldermen
in fulfillment of a pledge that they would be
abolished if and when an earnings tax was
instituted.
"This is another step toward achievement
of a tax structure based on a relatively few
stable and equitable sources, instead of a
multiplicity of nuisance taxes."
Two Milwaukee Firms
File to Run Theatres
MADISON—Articles of incorporation have
been filed with the secretary of state for two
Milwaukee theatrical firms. They are
National Theatrical Agency, Inc., with 100
shares of no par value; to engage generally
in the entertainment business. Incorporators
listed are Nick Betehia, Loretta Reed and
John Jepson.
Standard Theatres Management Corp.. 85
shares of no par value; to own, lease, manage,
operate and conduct theatres for the
presentation of vaudeville and legitimate
stage productions; L. F. Gran, H. M. Rosenband
and A. C. Stolga.
Showing of 'Souls' Costs
Milwaukee Showman $100
MILWAUKEE—Clement W. Kraemer, general
manager of the Atlas Theatre, was found
guilty on a charge of exhibiting an obscene
motion picture and fined $100 by City Judge
Herbert J. Steffes here last week. "Souls in
Pawn." billed as "an expose of the illegitimate
baby-selling racket," was shown on October
28, at the Atlas.
Duane C. Schubert, Atlas manager, received
a dismissal on a similar charge. Schubert
was directed to pay court costs of $20.20.
Mrs. Larry Jacobs Dies
INDIANAPOLIS—Mrs. Charlotte Jacobs,
wife of Larry Jacobs, manager of the Screen
Guild exchange here, died recently while
visiting the home of her sister in Covington.
Ind. Services were conducted in Lansing,
Mich. Survivors include her husband, Mrs.
a sister in Lansing, and a brother
Bessie Hill,
Earl Maynard. Williamstown, Mich.
Disney Film Premiere
At Purdue University
LAFAYETTE, IND.—"So Dear to My
Heart," Walt Disney's latest picture, part of
which was made in Brown County, Ind.,
will receive its premiere in the Hall of Music
at Purdue University January 15 before the
student body, staff and alumni. The famed
artist and cartoonist, along with members of
the cast for the picture, will be there with
the film to make personal appearances.
The film will open at the Indiana Theatre,
Indianapolis, January 19 with Disney and
the stars present.
Blue Law Repeal Fails;
Enforcement Drive On
ZION, ILL.—Leaders of the unsuccessful
attempt to repeal by referendum the 48-yearold
Sunday blue laws in this city are spearheading
a drive for complete enforcement
of the ordinances.
The blue laws had been under attack here
for a number of months and finally culminated
in a referendum election last month
in which voters decided to keep the laws in
effect. Shortly after the election Mayor
Richard F. Hire ordered the laws enforced
to the letter, making Sunday trade, labor
and entertainment illegal.-
The laws ban delivery of milk, newspapers
and groceries, close the town's one motion
picture theatre and limit the sale of meals
and ice cream. Violators are liable to fines
Police reported that there have been no arrests
for violations and "no complaints,
cither."
BOXOFTICE January 8. 1949 65

. . . The
1.889,
From the BOXOFFICE Files
(Twenty Years Ago)
Joseph Mogler, owner of the Mogler, Bremen
' and Excello theatres in north St. Louis,
president of the St. Louis Motion Picture Exhibitors
league and state senator of Missouri,
acted as Santa Claus for 1.700 children in the
vicinity of his theatres by passing out about
$600 in new quarters in front of the Bremen
bank. It was the 50th time since last January
7 that Mogler had given some kind of new
coins to children who assembled at the bank.
The innovation started as more or less of a
joke on that January 7 when one or two
youngsters asked him for a nickel and he
gave both new five-cent pieces.
The following Saturday the same two
youngsters and a dozen or more were on
hand and once more Mogler passed out coins.
The ceremony continued till December 22,
when about 1,700 children were present. During
the 50 weeks, Mogler gave away $2,823.60.
James P. Brennan, for the past five years
manager of the Grand Opera House, St.
Louis, relinquished the position in favor of
R. F. Quinby of Chicago . . . Fire wrecked
the Cosmo Theatre at Merrill, Wis. The house
was owned by A. L. Bobargem, the equipment
by H. D. McChensey.
Construction has been started on a 700-
seat theatre in De Soto, Mo., for J. Rosen
Powhatan Theatre, 3111 Sutton Ave.,
Maplewood, Mo., reopened recently as a
sound picture house.
^DRIVE-IN TOWERS I
Erected Within 3 -Weeks!
Harry Greenbaum, former manager of
Loew's State in St. Louis, and more recently
the manager of the Fox Theatre in Washington,
has been appointed manager of the
new $7,000,000 Fox, about to open In St.
Louis. The Grand Central Theatre, one
block north, and the Missouri, almost opposite,
are both being redecorated and refurbished.
The St. Louis grand jury is expected to
investigate an alleged shortage of more
than $6,530 in the funds of the Grand Opera
House, picture-vaudeville theatre in St. Louis
. . . A. R. Dietz of the St. Louis Pathe exchange
is leaving the company to take charge
of World Wide pictures in the St. Louis
territory.
David Pesetzki, conductor of the orchestra
at Loew's State in St. Louis, is making a
valiant effort to bring theatre music in the
city back to the high plane it enjoyed prior
to the advent of jazz. At the State, with an
orchestra of 20, he has endeavored to play
most of the real orchestral masterpieces of
the world. Ernst Hares, organist at the State,
is billed as the youngest theatre organist in
America. He was born in Wales 21 years ago
and is somewhat of a musical prodigy.
C. Millis' Team 5 Leads
IATSE Bowling League
MILWAUKEE—In the IATSE Bowling
league C. Millis' team jumped into the lead
followed by team 2, led by H. M. Eifert, and
team 7, captained by H. Eifert. Team standings
were:
Won Lost
C. Mills. Team 5
H. M. Eifert. 2
17
H. Eiiert. 7
A. Neuendorf. 4
E. Bigelow. 1
I. Doctor, 8
High S team—Team 7, 2,546; Team 2, 2,511.
and Team 5, 2,485. High 1 team—Team 5,
894; Team 4, 893, and Team 2. 884. High individual—
S. Hoenig, 623; G. Mace, 615, and
H. Black, 603. High 1 individual—H. Black,
235: G. Mace. 233. and J. Kraczek, 232.
We contract at a fixed price to completely design and engineer your
screen tower, foundation, screen surface and wings. Efficient erection
procedure and ample supply of fabricated sections usually enables us
to complete the job within 3 weeks. Complete insurance coverage is
carried during construction for owner's protection.
Scientifically designed foundation beams assure maximum stability and
exceptionally high wind ratings. Built-in tilt feature. Our new screen
surface results in a picture of superior quality.
Unusual soil conditions solved scientifically.
A WIDE SELECTION OF DESIGNS
WE CONTRACT FOR COMPLETE DRIVE-IN JOBS!
THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO
109 Michigan St. Ph. ADams 8107 Toledo 2, Ohio
In the Warner Bros. Theatres league Nite
Strikers grabbed the lead which Granada
Theatre Sr. had held all season. Jalonies and
Juneau Theatre Sr. were strong contenders.
Team standings were:
Won
Thro
Sr.
Juneau Theatre Sr.
National Theatre
Alhambra Theatre Sr.
Warner Theatre Sr.
Egyptian Theatre
Juneau Theatre Jr.
Warner Theatre Jr.
Granada Theatre Jr.
Granada Theatre Boosters
High 3 team—National Theatre. 1,904; Alhambra
Theatre Sr . and Jalonies, 1,863.
High 1 team—Granada Theatre Sr., 724; Alhambra
Theatre Sr., 696. and Jalonies, 693.
High 3 individual, men's—Bill Maciejewski,
577; Dick Allen. 567, and Harvey Black, 561.
High 1 individual, men's—Harvey Black, 234;
Bill Maciejewski, 225. and Dick Fahey. 219.
High 3 individual, girls'—Lucille Haggith,
453: Ruth Krause, 452, and Evelyn Nimmer,
439. High 1 individual, girls'—Ruth Krause,
215: Teddy Jones. 173; Lucille Haggith, 167,
and Evelyn Nimmer. 167.
13
10
BOXOFFICE
:: January 8, 1949

. . . Vic
. . . Several
. . The
. . J&M
. . John
. . Theatre
. . There
. . John
. . The
. .
. .
Milwaukee Filmrow Flashbacks of 1948
.
.
. . . Donn
in Iron River and Crystal Falls . . . Walter
. . . Jules Gerelick, Paramount salesman, resigned
By JAMES GAHAGAN
after an extended illness Bergant,
her marriage to live at Fort Worth
Milwaukee
a friend of all in the film business for Lester Dannenberg, National Screen office
William L. Ainsworth, Fond du Lac, was years in Milwaukee territory, died at Veterans manager, built his own garage
hospital. Wood, Wis.
elected president of the Allied States Ass'n
Borrer. former Green Bay Strand manager,
New offices of the ITO of Wisconsin were was named supervisor for Delft circuit houses
of Motion Picture Exhibitors. He resigned
as president of Independent Theatre Owners opened at 1027 West Wells . Service
Co., with Harry Perlewitz and Eddie Vollendorf
Mirisch, Monogram producer, accompanied
of Wisconsin. Harold Pearson, ITO field
man, climaxed a busy year by contacting exhibitors
at the helm, moved to the Brumder by brother Harold, Allied Artists vice-presi-
dent, was a frequent visitor . . . Jesse T.
and signing many new ITO mem-
Bldg. at North Plankinton and West Wells Among the new members:
McBride, Paramount manager, and his wife
streets.
bers.
Adams Theatre in Adams, S. E. Johnson; Erv Clumb. Towne advertising director,
Palace, Antigo, Lucile Fowler; Elite, Appleton,
with an assist from Louis Orlove, MGM
celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary
Neil Duffy (Elite subsequently taken
and entered the automobile business
exploiteer, came up with the exploitation
over by Standard Theatres); Lake, Bailey's gimmick of the year on "The Pirate." A Omaha.
at
Harbor, Elton and Orville Voeks; Century, treasure hunt, with the big chest buried about Harold J. Fitzgerald, president of Fox Wisconsin
directed the publicity job on the Freedom
train's local showing . Reel Fel-
Blair, Frank Lesmeister; Brillion, Brillion,
Richard Buchholz; Clinton, Clinton, Jack
Curl; De Pere, De Pere, Stanley Vincient;
Nicolet, De Pere, Edward Vincient; Troy,
L. J. Seidl; Rex, Park Falls, J. Esterle; Lyric,
Peshtigo, Oswald Mylener.
Also Myra, Palmyra. Robert Whitbeck;
Midway, Prairie du Sac, W. J. Charboneau;
Pulaski, Pulaski, Mrs. F. Ziehm; Falls, Sheboygan
Falls, Gerold Bursell; Royal, Stratford,
Mrs. Frieda Telschow; Midway, Spalding,
Mich., Alex Perry; Mode, Waterloo, W. F.
Rademacher; Gerold, Weyauwega, Kenneth
Peterson; Dells, Wisconsin Dells. Donald S.
Deakin; Badger, Wittenberg, Frank E. Hellstrom;
Woods, WoodrufT, H. Frederich; La
Farge, La Farge, H. L. Callaway, and Rosa,
Waupaca, John P. Adler.
Eagle Lion, under the managership of Joe
Imhof, moved to the building vacated by
Monogram when that exchange shifted to
offices previously occupied by U-I ... An
all-industry group helped Jack Bannon, U-I
manager, unveil the new $250,000 ultramodern
exchange at an open house . . The
Telenews, managed by Thurston Wayner,
celebrated its first anniversary in Milwaukee
. . Art Sontag sold his Brillion, Brillion,
and after a turn as Film Classics salesman
entered other fields.
Film Arts Corp., producer of 16mm and
35mm industrial motion pictures and trailers,
entered the television production field
and now occupies the second and third floors
of the old Fox Midwesco Bldg. on North
Sixth street near Filmrow. Charley Koehler.
Actor Pictures representative in the Wisconsin
and Upper Michigan, also is located there
Manhardt was appointed Wisconsin's
distributor for RCA sound and projection
equipment. Manhardt held open
house in new quarters at 20th and West
Clybourn. with a big industry turnout.
Angie Provinzano left Fox Wisconsin's
booking department to become associated
with Mike Chesnik in the operation of the
Alamo and Mozart . . . Max Wiesner, who
had functioned as Chesnick's partner, died
3:30 a. m. on Bradford Beach, unearthed
more grave-diggers than police could handle.
One eager beaver dug a foxhole 20x4 feet
only to learn the prize had been discovered
an hour before he manned his shovel. A
few additional buried chests kept the town
humming, while Clumb lost 15 pounds.
Mr. and Mrs. Sig Goldberg, Hollywood,
Wausau, celebrated their eighth wedding an-
.
East Troy, L. Husten; Hollywood, Eau Claire,
S. M. Grengs; Victor, Hartland, Jack Adams;
Lodi, Lodi, Lyle Turner; See-More, Seymour-,
Frank Ebert.
Also Little Chute, Little Chute, Clara
Koehn; Towne, Milwaukee, Constantine niversary latter part of the year
Papas and Andrew Spheeris; Avon, Medford,
on Seventh street Film Classics occupied
Ray Blakeslee; Fort, Montfort, Ralph W.
larger office facilities and began handling
Farrington; Rialto, Nekoosa, Lawrence its own film inspection and shipping. Matt
Buchholz; Badger, Oconto, Francis Perrizo;
Sullivan, Buffalo, new Film Classics manager,
Grand, Oconto Falls, Irving Vincient; Omro,
and Bill Griffiths, promoted from
Omro Business Men's Ass'n; Star, Oshkosh,
booker to office manager, were busy with
activities connected with the new Film
Classics building under construction on West
State in the film center. Film Classics was
slated to move to the new building early in
January.
Joe Neger returned to his old post, 20th
Century-Fox manager . . . Vincent Flynn,
New York, was appointed assistant to John
G Kemptgen, MGM manager.
"41 Outdoor," L. F. Gran's ozoner, encom-
passing 65 acres, with facilities for 1,000
cars and plans for a dual screen, opened
near Franklin, south of Milwaukee. Bill
Koster left Fox Wisconsin to manage 41
Outdoor Enterprises, Inc., Minneapolis,
opened the first Madison drive-in.
Ralph Green, Minneapolis, directs this one
additional drive-ins were in construction
stages as the year closed.
Marge Kennedy left National Screen after
lows club golf outing at Port Washington
Country club was one of the major social
events of the summer.
Beatrice Schleif, ITO secretary, was married
and resigned . Adler's Rosa,
Waupaca, opened in Hollywood fashion .
Many World War II veterans entered the industry
in exhibition and distribution. Several
ex-GIs built their own theatres in Wisconsin
and Upper Michigan . . . Jeanette
Kowalski, Columbia inspector, was married
... A. J. Honthaner's Comet, Milwaukee, received
full remodeling.
Nick Johnson's Strand, Manitowoc, was remodeled
. was a strong wave of
remodeling and improvement of houses
throughout the territory . . . Jerry McMillan
was appointed manager of the Grand and
Times, Clintonville. The Marcus circuit of
which Ben Marcus, Oshkosh, is president and
general manager, operates both . . . Albert
Behm acquired the State, Waupaca, from
Irving Ashe and remodeled the house, adding
new sound and projection . . . George Langheinrich,
director of the ITO of Wisconsin
for many years and operator of the Burleigh,
died.
Alfred D. Kvool, manager for Warner Theatres,
was promoted to assistant to James
Coston, midwestern divisional manager . . .
Nick DuLaveris. local restaurant operator,
purchased the American from Louis Machat.
(Continued on next page)
PKOVEN VICTORS—Milwaukee's RKO exchange offers evidence of prowess in
previous contests as the 1949 Depinet drive gets under way. Left to right: Lou Elman,
branch manager; Herb Greenblatt. midwest district manager and drive captain;
Morris Anderson, R. W. Baker and William Foley, salesmen; Wallv Heim, field man;
Walter Blaney, office manager.
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949

. . . Charles
. . Complete
. . The
. .
. . The
. . Ralph
. . . SRO
. . The
Milwaukee Filmrow Flashbacks
i Continued from preceding page)
R. Hacker, Standard Theatres
district manager, left for a position on the
executive staff of the Radio City Music Hall
Theatre, New York . . . The Tower and Oriental
were sold to St. Cloud Amusement
Corp., operator of a New Jersey and Pennsylvania
circuit. This was the initial entry
of outside interests in Wisconsin exhibition
picture.
.
George Gonis sold the Liberty to Mike and
Adam Eshreff, operators of a local restaurant
interior and exterior remodeling,
with installation of modern air
conditioning, sound and projection equipment,
was carried out . Spring Green,
Spring Green, was sold to O. A. Freck. The
house, shuttered for a time, opened after
remodeling with Bruce Preck managing .
L. F. Gran, head of Standard Theatres, announced
plans for construction of a 750-
seat house in Waukesha.
Stanley Watson joined Gallagher Films
Milwaukee branch. Several new salesmen
were added to the Gallagher staff . . . Projectionists
George Bliss, Edgar Owens, Henry
Putzear, Bill Baird and Spiros Menthenitis
were a few of the boys manning the machines
during the Centennial at State Fanpark
. IA huddle at Cleveland attracted
Otto Trampe, IATSE business agent,
Glen Kahlkoff and Walter Behr, union officers
. . . When Alvin Gross was upped to
MGM salesman, he was succeeded as office
manager by Bill Schwartz of Detroit . . .
Rosemary Ward and Joe Calvelli, Chicago
20th-Fox, both former local employes, were
married . Johnson's Norway, De-
Forest, was unveiled in July . . . The Lake.
Pewaukee. opened Christmas day.
Five Milwaukee radio stations angled for
television outlets with WTMJ-TV. the sole
local operating television station . . . L. F.
Gran's invitational golf outing at Merrill
Hills Country club, Waukesha, attracted many
players and watchers . . . Al Rumack, former
Fox Wisconsin artist, opened his own studio
in the Reporter Bldg., specializing in motion
picture art . . . Wayne Berkley, former manager,
Majestic, Madison, joined John Adler's
circuit as public relations director.
Delft Theatres, Marquette, opened a local
office in the Brumder Bldg., under Joe
Woodward, former 20th-Fox manager here
opened an office on West State
on Filmrow. with Bill Young as manager and
Jack Frost, formerly with MGM, as salesman
... A return of stage shows at the
Wisconsin for the first time in years was
kicked off by Lionel Hampton and his orchestra
during Christmas week . annual
convention of the ITO of Wisconsin
was held October 13-15 at Hotel Schroeder.
Late in the year there was considerable
exhibitor interest in the proposed city 5 per
cent amusement tax on theatre admissions.
The matter was postponed till late December
for another hearing before the city
fathers.
Though business was down late in the
year, distributors and exhibitors are looking
for a good year in 1949 . . . More remodeling
is planned and the year is due to see
numerous drive-ins springing up around the
territory.
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Motiograph has equipment especially designed for theatres
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Rites for Robert Stempel,
Retired Theatre Owner
ST. CHARLES, MO—Funeral services were
held here Monday (3i for Robert "Bob"
Stempel, 75, retired motion picture theatre
owner, who died January 1 at St. Luke's hospital.
He was the founder and former head of
the old Gasconade Amusement Corp., which
at one time operated theatres in St. Charles,
Rolla, Lebanon, Sullivan and St. James, Mo.
He resided at 201 North Third street, St.
Louis.
A former engineer for the U.S. army corps
of engineers, working principally on river
projects along the Mississippi river and its
tributaries, he left the government service in
1918 and built the Strand Theatre in St.
Charles. This 950-seater, along with the 450-
seat Roxy here, now is part of the Frisina
Amusement Co. circuit. He helped organize
the Gasconade Amusement Corp. several
years later and became its first president.
Stempel retired in 1938. His wife Grace survives.
Gene Autry Troupe Tours
With a troupe of 45, Gene Autry will make
a personal appearance tour for Columbia
covering 56 cities in 60 days.
Write lor literature today or see your Motiograph dealer.
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GER-BAR. INC.. 442 N. Illinois St., Indianapolis 4, Indiana
ROBERT S. GABDNEB
4431 W. Lake Street. Chicago 24. Illinois
JOE HORNSTEIN. INC.
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THE RAY SMITH COMPANY
710 W. Slate St., Milwaukee 3. Wisconsin.
4431 W. LAKE ST., CHICAGO 24, ILL.
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. . James
. . Elaine
. . Kenneth
Fori Wayne Theatres
Battle Over Name
FORT WAYNE—A motion to dismiss the
suit of the Harrison Theatre and Realty
Corp. against the Emboyd Theatre Co. to
prevent the latter from using the name Emboyd
was overruled by Judge Luther M.
Swygert in U.S. district court Monday (27).
The Emboyd Corp. attacked the complaint
on the grounds that no cause of action was
set out and the U.S. court lacked jurisdiction.
The Harrison company contended it
had established through long usage an exclusive
legal right to the name.
The Harrison company operates the Emboyd,
Paramount and Palace theatres in Fort
Wayne and currently is building the Clyde,
an ultramodern theatre and shopping center
on the southwest outskirts of the city. However,
the lease for the Emboyd runs out in
1952 and will be taken over by the Illinois
corporation on that day.
Mrs. Helen Quimby, widow of the late Clyde
Quimby, pioneer exhibitor who named the
Emboyd for his mother Emma, is president
of the Harrison company.
Jefferson at Fort Wayne
Has Better Movie Month
FORT WAYNE—An all-out effort to stimulate
interest and appreciation of the showgoing
public in better motion picture entertainment,
is being made by the Jefferson
here with the inauguration of Better Movie
month in January.
Claire "Bud" Jones, manager of the local
house, plans to play a wide variety of films
during the month, including Technicolor
musicals and adventures, comedies and
dramas.
He also says a number of reissues will be
played, including a number of prewar films
brought back at the request of the theatre's
patrons.
Frank Larkin Promoted
PEORIA, ILL.—Frank Larkin, former house
manager for the Beverly Theatre here, has
been named general manager of the Varsity
and Beverly, replacing Willis J. Ford, who
has acquired his own theatre at Blandinsville.
111.
New Sound in Zionsville
ZIONSVILLE. IND.—The Zionsville Theatre
was closed recently while engineers installed
complete new sound equipment costing
more than $4,000.
COMPLETE THEATRE
[rca EQUIPMENT
MID-W€ST TH€ATR€
SUPPLY COMPANY, Inc.
448 North Illinois St.
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BOXOFFICE
Milwaukee Theatres Urge
Fee Boost in Lieu of Tax
MILWAUKEE—At a meeting of a special
subcommittee which had conferred with theatre
operators relative to the proposed 5 per
cent admission tax. information was given
to the council's udiciary committee that operators
will not retreat from their opposition
to the tax, but probably will agree to increased
license fees.
Alderman Charles Quirk, who passed the
information on, said the theatremen "know
the city needs more money," and, for that
reason, will not oppose higher license fees.
Quirk said, "Definite recommendations on the
higher license fee schedule will be made
within two weeks."
Raymond Mitchell, theatrical promoter who
favors the tax, asked adoption by the city
before the state legislature establishes a state
admission tax, similar to such taxes in other
states. Mitchell asserted theatre patrons
could afford to pay the proposed 5 per cent
tax. He spoke on the Milwaukee Speaks forum
on radio station WTMJ.
"It will open an avenue through which we
can receive tax revenue from the suburbanites
who use municipal facilities and do not share
the city tax burdens," he said. "A surprising
number of suburbanites attend the downtown
and neighborhood Milwaukee theatres."
William V. Geehan, assistant to Harold J.
Fitzgerald, president of Fox Wisconsin, held
that the planned tax would work hardship
on the low salary bracket people. Geehan
pointed out that the proposed tax meant discrimination
against the theatregoing public
that is
INDIANAPOLIS
T J. McGinley, sales manager for Prestige
Pictures, New York, visited his daughter
Mrs. Herman Hallberg over the holidays.
Her husband is office manager for 20th-Fox
here . Victory, salesman for 20th-
Fox, spent the holidays in New York with his
family Van Splinter, manager's
secretary Republic, went to Henryville,
at
Ind., her home town, and Clydine Miller,
to secretary Russell Bleeke, office manager
and head booker at Republic, went home to
Williamsport.
Nancy Sullivan, cashier at Warners, has
resigned to join RKO as cashier, succeeding
Carrie May LaCrosse . . . Morton Kramer,
salesman at Columbia, spent Christmas with
his parents in Milwaukee, his home town . . .
"Lucky Man," distributed by Affiliated Distributors,
has been booked at the Lyceum in
Terre Haute, the Albany in Albany and the
Gregory circuit houses in Indiana, according
to Earl Penrod. manager.
Lowell Cash, manager of the Royal, Danville,
Ind., died at the Methodist hospital
here recently . . . Harry Hayes of the UA
sales group spent his holiday vacation visiting
his brothers in Kansas City . . . Rita
Stevenson, former inspector at U-I. has been
promoted to typist clerk . . . Jack Benson,
head booker at U-I, spent his holiday vacation
visiting friends in New York.
Norma Schnarr, daughter of Mr. and Mrs-.
Glen Schnarr. who operate the Daisy Theatre
here, spent the holidays in St. Petersburg.
Fla., with friends . . . Neil Wylde, assistant
booker at Eagle Lion, spent the holidays
with his parents in New York . . . Sympathy
to Robert Arvin, head shipper at Columbia,
on the recent death of his father.
.
Mrs. Larry Jacobs, wife of the Screen Guild
manager, died recently. Burial was in Lansing,
Collins, general
Mich. .
manager of the Greater Indianapolis Amusement
Corp., was elected a director of the
. .
Louise
Indianapolis convention bureau
Munson, cashier at Columbia, spent the holiday
in her home town of Hoopston, 111. . . .
at present paying more than its share.
Mildred Grubb. assistant cashier at Columbia,
spent the holiday in Terre Haute visiting
friends . . . James Keefe, 20th-Fox exploiteer,
was here on business.
Exhibitors visiting Filmrow included W. T.
Studebaker, Logansport; Walter Weil, Greenfield;
Harry Watts, Knightstown; Herbert
Sullivan, Alliance circuit, Chicago; K. H. Ball,
Royal, Brownstown; Roy Harold, Rushville;
Kenneth Law, Argos. and John Micu, Fort
Wayne . . . J. C. Clickner, head of Midwest
Theatre Supply Co., and Carl Miller, service
manager, attended a business meeting in the
home office at Cincinnati.
More Than $100,000 Paid
By B&H on Sick Insurance
CHICAGO—President J. H. McNabb of
the Bell & Howell Corp. reported that more
than $100,000 has been paid out to employes
of the company who are covered by its sponsored
group sickness and accident plan.
Since 1943, when the Bell & Howell retirement
plan was instituted, more than $2,000,-
000 has been contributed to the trustees of the
retirement fund and the company hopes its
financial position will allow continuati6n of
the trust in the future. The company also
is planning a liberal cash bonus for all its
employes based on their earnings and length
of employment.
C GEB^AR
THEATRE EQUIPMENT
442 NORTH ILLINOIS STREET
INDIANAPOLIS
INDIANA
"£ue>u}tlu*t

. . The
. . Lee
. . The
. . Carl
. . Milton
Florida holiday . . .
CHICAGO
XX7ith horns blowing, Chicago's downtown
Duke Hickey, MPPA,
streets were a pandemonium of blurtings. came in from New York for a survey in the
squawkings and bellowings. As in previous Chicago territory . . . The Abbott Theatre
Supply Co. installed RCA booth and sound
equipment at Selwyn Theatre for an extended
run of "Red Shoes."
years, this was mainly the theatregoing
crowd, the boys and girls who came to the
Loop early to attend shows and then went
out on the streets to celebrate and welcome
the New Year . Baby 1949 was welcomed
by over 400 members and guests at
Variety Club's annual shindig in the Sheraton
hotel. They made merry from 9 p. m.
until the wee hours. Henry Elman, chief
barker, and his fellow barkers greeted members
and guests, including many out-oftowners.
Harold Stevens, Jack Kitsch, Nat Nathanson,
Henry Elman, Van A. Nomikos and other
exchange and circuit heads can take wellearned
bows for raising over $25,000 in the
sale of tickets for the Will Rogers memorial
fund. Ben Robbins, Detroit manager for U-I,
received the Buick automobile.
Mrs. Dorothy (Charles) Lindau, 54, wife of
the operator of four neighborhood houses,
died last week . Lyles, Jim Merrick
and Bill Burke of the Santa Fe club greeted
members of the press, Pilmrow exploiteers and
theatre publicists at the 13th annual buffet
supper in the Santa Fe clubrooms . . . Tracy
and Christian plan to open their 550-car
drive-in at Galesbuig May 1 . . Rose Gogan
Ward, office manager for National Screen
Service, has resigned to live with her new
hubby in Arizona.
John A. Graf, Albert B. Lidy and Richard
Bieloch have formed the National Video
Corp., 120 South LaSalle St. . . . Al Golden,
Republic country salesman, returned from a
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A cooperation agreement was announced
between the Sun-Times and Balaban and
Katz's television station WBKB by Richard
Finnegan, president of the Sun-Times, and
John Balaban, director of the B&K station.
Terms of the agreement provide that the
two organizations will work together to de-
velop special events and promotional activities
.
for greater public service The
Annex Theatre, home of Italian
.
films, is
showing for the first time in the middle
west the new Italian motion picture "Monte
Cassino." It's a dramatic story of the famous
abbey, which has survived centuries of destructive
wars.
A. E. Klein, Kayline Co., returned from
a conference with Mobiltone Co. chiefs in
Cleveland . electricians and cameramen
are having difficulties with WEWR-TV
and ITN-TV television stations. The Operators
Union Local 110 claims jurisdiction over
all handling of films and sound at these
spots but the electricians are disputing the
sound end of the problem. War Labor Relations
Board referees are expected here for
the case and an early hearing.
Twentieth-Fox exchange employes were the
first on the Row to hold their yule celebration,
held at the Edgewater Beach hotel.
Jack Barnett of Movietone News was in
charge of festivities . Johnson, 55, of
Chicago Film studios, died recently. He was
newly elected trustee of the new M. P. Technicians
Union Local 780. Another election will
be held next month for replacement.
Tom Flannery, the White Way sign man,
and his wife celebrated their 25th wedding
anniversary the day after Christmas. Ralph
O'Hara and his wife were 25 years wed on
Sunday. At Jack Kirsch's party, Flannery
had a reunion with Mrs. O'Hara and Gene
Atkinson, business manager of the projectionist
union. Almost 28 years ago they
worked together at the Bandbox Theatre
at LaSalle and Madison. Maude O'Hara was
the organist, Flannery, electrician, and
Atkinson, operator.
Since the Variety Club of Illinois adopted
LaRabida and its children, the members and
.
their friends have poured more than $100,000
into the fund that cares for children with
rheumatic fever. LaRabida is nonsectarian.
All care to the convalescent child is without
expense to his family E. Cohen,
EL's eastern sales manager and captain of
the Jack Schlaifer Testimonial drive, was
here to meet the exchange personnel, exhibitors
and circuit heads to set up plans for the
drive . . . Three Christmas films were shown
in the Bethany Reformed church as part
of its holiday program. Handel's "Messiah"
was presented by Illiana Oratorio society and
"The Life of Handel" also was shown.
Beauty Contestants in Roles
June Fulton and Patricia Hall, beauty contest
winners, will play college co-eds in U-I's
"And Baby Makes Three."
Hurst Capacity Cut
In Remodeling Work
HURST, ILL.—Mr. and Mrs. Thomas
Bracken have completed remodeling of their
Hurst Theatre during which they reduced
the capacity from 1.000 to 492. Mr. and Mrs.
Bracken have owned and operated the theatre
since Bracken's retirement from vaudeville
in the 1920s. Prior to his retirement.
Bracken toured the southwest as a one-man
vaudeville act, appearing in theatres in Texas,
Oklahoma, Arkansas and other states. He
was billed as "The Musical Bracken of
Bracken's Musical Show." He still entertains
occasionally for organizations in and around
Hurst. Mrs. Bracken reports.
Final step in the remodeling of the Hurst
was the installation of a new boiler furnace
complete with stoker. Originally a 1,000-
seater, the theatre now has 492 all-cushioned
seats complete on the floor. The balcony has
been partitioned off.
Included in the installations are new indirect
light fixtures, acoustic celotex wall
panels, new motiograph projectors with mirrophonic
sound and an Altec Lansing
speaker. A confection stand has been erected
across the center of the lobby. It includes a
new Manley popcorn machine, a candy case
and an automatic soft drink dispenser.
In addition to the new equipment, the interior
of the theatre has been repainted. The
ceiling was painted in two shades of blue
accented with plaster cornice, moldings and
designs in white. The walls of the auditorium
are also painted blue with two panels of pink
on each side.
Valos Plans DeKalb Drive-in
DEKALB. ILL.—Plans for a drive-in. super
mart and restaurant to be constructed
soon have been announced by the Valos interests.
Valos has also purchased the
Egyptian Theatre here and is reported to be
planning operation of this theatre when the
present lease expires. The firm also leases
and operates the Fargo Theatre here as well
as theatres in Geneva and Batavia.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

eissues
. . "Volpone,"
. . The
. . Tom
Chicago Grosses Rise
Despite Icy Weather
CHICAGO—Snow, sleet and icy pavements
made the going tough for theatregoers, but
nearly all downtown houses had a banner
week with vacationing youngsters giving Loop
houses a big play mornings and afternoons,
and adults packing theatres for night shows.
Outstanding new entries were "The Paleface"
at the Chicago plus a stage show headed by
Billy DeWolfe and Mel Torme, and the Oriental
with "The Three Musketeers" and a stage
show featuring Vivian Blaine and the Three
Suns.
(Average Is 100)
Apollo—Hamlet (U-I). reserved seats, 5th wk...Sellout
Chicago—The Paleface (Para), plus stage show 140
Garnck—The Snake Pit (20th-Fox), 7th wk 110
Grand—The Freak (Capitol), 2nd wk 110
Oriental—The Three Musketeers (MGM), plus
stage show .... 140
Palace—Every Girl Should Be Married (RKO),
2nd wk 100
Rialto—Phantom of the Opera (Realart), AH Baba
and the Forty Thieves (Realart), reissues 115
at Roosevelt—Night the Opera (MGM), San Francisco
(MGM), 2nd wk 100
Selwyn—The Red Shoes (EL), reserved seats. .Sellout
State-Lake—June Bride (WB)
Studio—Girls of the Underworld
115
(Deze'.l: Probation
(Dezel), 2nd wk. 100
United Artists—Man From Colorado (Col) 100
Woods—Red River (UA) 150
World Playhouse—The Lost One (Col), 6th wk 115
Luck (Col), 2nd d. t. wk 100
Towne—Hills of Home (MGM), 2nd wk 125
Warner—One Sunday Afternoon (7.B); The Plunderers
(Rep) 125
Wisconsin—That Wonderful Urge (20th-Fox);
Ladies of the Chorus (Col) 125
'Moon' Tops Indianapolis
With 125 Per Cent
INDIANAPOLIS—Boxoffice grosses picked
up considerably here as industrial plants and
schools let out for holiday celebrations. High
gross of the week went to "Blood on the
Moon" at the Circle with 125 per cent.
Circle—Blood on the Moon (RKO) 125
Indiana—Mexican Hayride (U-I) 100
Loews—Danger in the Hills (MGM); The Gallant
Blade (Col) .. 120
Rose of the Yukon
Janitors May Strike
In Kenosha Theatres
KENOSHA. WIS.—The possibility of a
strike at Kenosha's seven theatres was raised
recently when an official of the AFL Building
Service Employes' Local 168 announced
the union had voted to call a strike unless
wage increases for janitors and sweepers are
granted. The union also asks one day off
each week for members who now work every
day.
Indiana Theatre Prize Plan Seeks
To Counteract Big Radio Handouts
INDIANAPOLIS—Further discussions of
plans for a statewide theatre participation
in a series of quiz and prize programs
to draw patrons back to the theatre
from the radio giveaway shows were
scheduled here this month.
William A. Carroll, executive secretary
of the Associated Theatre Owners of Indiana,
revealed tentative plans for a
Hoosier program similar to national programs
now being drawn up by New York
and Chicago promoters.
The proposed plans have been devised
to steer clear of lottery laws which put
an end to bank nights about 11 years
ago. The plan would provide about $5,000
minimum of cash and merchandise awards
for five weekly quiz winners in the state,
Carroll said.
Selected on a statewide basis
the five contestants would meet here in a
LOUIS
•Phe St. Louis Theatre Supply Co. will pro-
ST.
radio show from the stage of a local theatre.
Theatregoers elsewhere in the state
would hear the program over loudspeakers.
First discussed publicly here last month,
the plan calls for participation by 150 or
more Indiana theatres. Carroll emphasized
the importance of making the program
entirely a Hoosier one.
"Your Indiana audiences will get a bigger
kick out of hearing the names of
Hoosier winners than they would if the
winners were in Arizona or Vermont," he
said.
Meanwhile, Phil Regan, head of a Chicago
corporation, revealed plans for a
Jingle Jamboree to be held in theatres
from the Atlantic coast to St. Louis with
estimated weekly awards of more than
$100,000. Under this plan, theatre patrons
would compete for awards by completing
New Year's Eve Grosses
Good in Milwaukee
the Rev. Carl C.
MILWAUKEE —
Rasche, head Theatregoers welcoming
of the Deaconess
hospital and former superintendent of
vide all of the projection, sound, in-car
the New Year found good film fare on tap
with a slight increase in admissions in most
speakers and other equipment for the 500- the mission. The film is titled "There Stands
car drive-in being constructed
situations for the big night. "Hills of Home."
on Highway the Forest." It compares life in the forest
61
held over at the Towne. drew well. "Every
north of Farmington, Mo., by Edwards & to that in the blighted area of the city in
Girl Should Be Married"
Plumlee Theatres. Provision is
angled a neat Riverside
take. "One Sunday Afternoon," the War-
increase the capacity by 250 cars if and
being made which the mission operates.
to
ner offering, pulled them in all week.
when business
First
warrants . Bloomer of Peter Wilder jr. has assumed new duties as
Belleville, 111.,
runs reported a good New Year's eve business,
though not on
was on Filmrow.
office credit manager for the Chase Candy
Co. . . . The
par with
Prunty Seed
last year.
& Grain Co., which
Joe Hornstein, Inc., has sold Sheldon Landing
is celebrating its 75th year in business, is
Alhambra—San Francisco (MGM); A Night at the
Opera (MGM), reissues
500 Irwin Comet chairs for use in the
.
115
building a new crib in the southern Illinois
Palace—The Paleface (Para); Big Town Scandal new Lions Theatre, Troy, 111., which he plans popcorn district. It will have a capacity of
(Para) 125
to open about March 15 . . . Maury Schweitzer,
former Paramount manager, now in the sure on the company's St. Louis storage space.
Riverside—Every
1,500,000
Girl Should Be Married (RKO);
pounds and will relieve the pres-
The Golden Eye (Mono) 120
Strand—The Man From Colorado (Co.) Racine drive-in field, spent the holidays here.
Motion pictures of a recent snake hunt were
featured at the annual Christmas party of
the Zoological Board of Control for St. Louis
held in the reptile house of the zoo in Forest
Park . . . Illinois popcorn growers during
1948 harvested a record crop of 62,920,000
pounds, the state and federal departments of
agriculture revealed. The crop was valued
at $2,518,000 compared with $1,428,000 paid
for 28.560.000 pounds the previous year. The
previous record crop was 44,640.000 pounds
in 1945.
Maurie Davis of the Will Rogers Theatre,
.
St. Louis, received congratulations on his 50th'
birthday a French production,
was current offering at Ruby
the
S'Renco's Art Theatre . International
Ass'n of Showmen gave its 12th annual
Christmas party for underprivileged children
in the organization's headquarters here.
Jimmy Bradford, Columbia salesman, was
at Alexian Bros.' hospital for an operation
. . . Lester Levey of the Columbia staff
and his wife spent the holidays in Chicago.
Financed by a noninterest loan from the
Downtown Kiwanis club, a color motion picture
showing the work of the Caroline Mission
recently was completed, according to
jingles.
SAVE
New Low Prices
Manley's Popcorn
Supplies
Complete Stock at
Convenient Pick-Up Location
on
ST. LOUIS FILM ROW
3138 Olive
R. D. VON ENGELN
Manley Representative
Ne. 7644
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949

. . Mrs.
. . George
. . Edward
Fahey.
. . Louis
I
MILWAUKEE
TXTarner Bros. Theatres Bowling league keglers
rolled for cash prizes in the New-
Year's week session. Bowlers finishing in the
money were Dick . Steve Martz, Milt
Dittmann. Elmer Nimmer. H. Friedwald and
Sonny McDonald ... On January 20 Roy
Pierce. Riverside manager, will present a
stage show featuring the ace disk jockeys
of Milwaukee and Chicago, who will show off
top record stars who will appear personally.
Milwaukee's Tom Mercein and Chicago's
Lynn Burtin and Dave Garroway are slated
for the first show of this type in town. Local
disk collectors and radio listeners have been
clamoring for such a show for quite a spell.
Roy Pierce promises a big night for all of
them.
.
A new concern, Valon Theatres Corp., has
been organized here for the operation of
motion picture theatres. The incorporators
are James Poole, Paul Barnes and Richard
Harrington Harris, projectionist
at the Wisconsin here, has been seriously
Theatre managers reported good
ill . .
patronage on New Year's eve. Indications
were that the volume was not up to last year,
but weekend business built grosses Several
.
neighborhoods held special
midnight
shows for the youngsters, offering top juvenile
entertainment and attractions.
.
The Classic, Watertown, has been done
over throughout, including new front and
a
canopy Otto Trampe, wife of the
IATSE business agent, was kept waiting New-
Year's eve while Otto and the boys got in a
few- extra frames of bowling. Otto won the
prize.
All seats are reserved at $2.40 top for the
Alhambra showing of "Hamlet" booked for
January 17 Woodhams, midcity
projectionist, distributed cigars following
the arrival of a baby daughter . . . Late
New Year's eve shows around the town, plus
the extended weekend holiday, gave theatre
staffs all around town a workout . . . Thurston
Wayner. Telenews manager, came up
with some swell flashbacks of past events
that kept things humming at Milwaukee's
only newsreel house. Incidently, a year's
successful operation indicates that the town
really goes for this type of entertainment.
Alfred D. Kvool and Henry Rozga were reappointed
to the motion picture commission,
the local censoring agency, for another fouryear
term. Sol Forman was the only newmember
added to the seven-member group
. . . Pearl Reinks, Metro telephone operator,
has been ill.
Jerry Beres, Venetian manager, has been
COMPLETE
EQUIPMENT
for THEATRES and DRIVE-INS
• IMMEDIATE DELIVERY
• LOWEST PRICES
24-HOUR PRODUCTION AND SOUND
SERVICE
Theatre
Write for free literature
Equipment Co.
AL BOUDOUR1S. Manager
109 Michigan St.. Toledo 2. Ohio
ADams 8107
doing a swell job in public relations. Beres
uses much of his nonoperating time in contacting
merchants, clubs and other organizations
in promoting goodwill for the Venetian.
You will find Beres on the floor personally
greeting all patrons and wishing them good
night as they leave the theatre.
Joe McMahon, former Eskin Theatres' film
buyer, returned from the west coast and will
announce a new connection shortly . . . There
were only a few exhibitors calling at the
exchanges during the pre-New Year's week.
All exchanges shuttered for the holiday and
operated with skeleton crews.
.
John G. Kemptgen, Metro manager, spent
the holidays at Omaha Orlove,
Metro exploiteer, was in from Minneapolis,
where he talked on exploitation before the
Berger Amusement Co. officials . . . Don
Deakin, Dells, distributed New Year's cards
that were something. Deakin was shown on
the cards wearing a real full beard, long
duster-type frock coat and high topper that
he utilizes for special events at the Dells.
Terro Krupa and Audrey Kaeshamer of
Metro are accepting all types of jigsaw puzzles
from their well-wishing exhibitors. The
gals spend their after-hours free time matching
the pieces of the latest contribution from
Bob Guiterman of the Capitol and Mikadow,
Manitowoc. To date the final picture looks
like the remodeled Mikadow. The Mikadow
was unveiled January 1 with first runs, following
a $30,000 modernization job that includes
new seats . . . Elsie Seidl. Metro contact
and mail custodian, will marry Carl
Wallrath February 5.
Exhibitor Nels Frye Dies;
Owned Danville Tivoli
DANVILLE. ILL.—Nels Frye, owner and
operator of the Tivoli Theatre here, died on
his 62nd birthday in Billings hospital. Chicago,
after a lengthy illness. Frye, who came
to Danville 27 years ago. was born in Sweden
and came to this country as a child. He
came here as manager of the Home Theatre
Co. and operated the Terrance Theatre until
he purchased the Tivoli and Colonial in
1930. He later sold the Colonial.
Surviving are his widow Lillian and three
sons, William of Los Angeles, Richard of
Boston, Kenneth of the home, and two grandchildren.
Manager in Accident
DEKALB, ILL.—Former DeKalb resident
Jack Sage escaped serious injury recently
when the car he was driving struck the rear
of a truck parked on the highway. Sage,
who has managed a Detroit theatre for several
years, was returning to his home from
the theatre at the time of the accident
ON THE COAST IT HAS
ALWAYS BEEN
TRAILERS FOR ALL PURPOSES
Wehrenberg
Gives
13,230 to Employes
ST. LOUIS — Approximately 150 employes
of ten neighborhood theatres
owned by Fred
Wehrenberg were
g i ven Christmas
bonuses totaling
$13,230 despite the
fact that business
in circuit theatres
declined 20 to 25
per cent from tha.
L of a year ago.
^ J
> r

'Dan Patch 7
Premiere
Slated for Next May
MINNEAPOLIS—With "The Great Dan
Patch" completed. Producer W. R. Frank,
back from Hollywood, announced here that
its world premieres would be in Minneapolis
and Indianapolis day and date early next
May. These cities were chosen because Dan
Patch did much of his racing in or near
them.
Frank has in mind for Minneapolis a huge
Northwest Variety Club heart hospital fund
benefit at Radio City for the initial showing.
He would have film notables from Hollywood
and other famous personages on hand for
the premiere to add glamor to the event and
he believes that as much as $25,000 to $30,000
could be raised for the heart hospital.
Various important tieups and a huge publicity
campaign will be arranged by Frank in
New York when he goes there to work out
details at the United Artists home office. The
picture will be distributed by that company.
Frank is confident the picture will be a boxoffice
hit.
The shooting of the picture
was completed
in 26 days, one day ahead of schedule, despite
several unavoidable delays. Frank's next picture,
also to be produced in conjunction with
author John Taintor Foote, will be based on
Foote's story, "Opus 43." Work on it will
start next fall, Frank says.
In the meanwhile, Frank is still trying to
sell the 19-theatre circuit in this territory of
which he's the principal owner, but no deal
has been made yet, he says. "Several people
are dickering to buy, but no agreement has
been reached yet as to price," he says.
Lawyers' $15,000 Fee Plea
To Judge in Ascap Case
MINNEAPOLIS—Judge G. H. Nordbye in
U.S. court here has taken under advisement
a petition filed by L B. Schwartz and S. P.
Halpern, Minneapolis attorneys, to assess a
$15,000 counsel fee against Ascap.
Schwartz and Halpern successfully defended
Bennie Berger and Mrs. J. L. Jensen,
exhibitors, in a suit brought by Ascap to
collect music performance fees. The court
held the music fee invalid and uncollectible
because of Ascap's monopolistic features.
That Ascap could withhold its products
from motion pictures and probably close
them all eventually was declared by L. D.
Frohlich. New York, Ascap counsel, who with
Thomas Vennum, another Minneapolis lawyer,
opposed the petition filed by Schwartz
and Halpern.
"The defendants' counsel did not accomplish
as much as they think," Frohlich told
Judge Nordbye, pointing out what might happen
if the society withheld its products from
films. "Fees will be collected by Ascap members
through one method or another." He
declared the requested $15,000 fee to be excessive,
and asserted that it should not be
larger than $2,500 under any circumstances.
Probe Attack on Ushers
DAVENPORT, IOWA—Police here have
been investigating the assault of two theatre
ushers by two youths with whom the ushers
had trouble in the balcony of the Orpheum
Theatre. The ushers reported the two attacked
them on the street after the theatre
closed.
GETTING SET—Midwest RKO exchanges prepare to start the 1949 Ned Deplnet
Drive. The top panel pictures members of the Minneapolis exchange, left to right:
Gene Gaudette, field man; Don Fuller, Wend.all Bjorkman, salesmen; Herb Greenblatt,
midwest district manager and drive captain; William Winters, Morris Steinman,
salesmen; Al Stern, office manager, and Fay Dressell, branch manager, seated.
Second panel shows Sioux Falls exchange members conferring with Greenblatt, seated.
Standing: Kenneth Eitreim, John Walters, salesmen; Manager Sherm Fitch and
Gaudette.
Many Holiday Parties
Given by Iowa Theatres
DES MOINES—Many theatres throughout
Iowa held free shows for children over the
holidays. Among them: The State in Davenport,
with a day-long series of free shows
from 11 a. m. until 9 p. m., and the State
in Washington with its annual program consisting
of cartoons and comedy shorts.
Employes were guests of the management
of the Rialto, Boone, and the State, Lenox.
Rialto Manager S. N. Fangman presented
each employe with a Christmas check from
the Central States Theatre Corp. Employes
in turn gave Fangman a desk lamp and
cigaret lighter. Frank Shipley of the State
was host to his 20 employes at a party and
gift exchange.
Projection Booth Fire
At Thornton Theatre
THORNTON, IOWA—Fire in the projection
booth of the Thornton Theatre here
damaged both machines and the interior of
the booth, but no one was injured as the
patrons filed out in orderly manner. The
theatre is operated by the Dorenkamp brothers,
Donald and Richard, both teen-agers.
The two boys were in the theatre at the
time of the blaze and Richard nearly was
overcome by smoke while attempting to put
out the flames with a fire extinguisher.
Firemen, using chemicals, succeeded in confining
the fire to the projection booth. The
theatre is owned by John Kolb of Latimer
Video Will Aid Films,
Bennie Berger Says
MINNEAPOLIS—Exhibitors in this territory
apparently aren't afraid of television.
In fact, Bennie Berger, president of North
Central Allied, says he feels that television
may do the film industry some good.
"I don't fear television a bit." says Berger.
"In my opinion, it will be employed to exploit
pictures before long, with trailers televised,
and will be a business aid instead of
a
detriment.
"In this territory particularly, with the
number of sets in use comparatively small
and programs limited and likely to be for
some time, there'll be nothing to worry about
under any circumstances for several years.
But even in New York and Philadelphia,
where many sets have been sold and attractive
programs are numerous, the showhouses
don't seem to have been hurt."
Berger is one of the principal owners of
the Minneapolis Lakers, professional basketball
team that has one of its games televised
every week. He not only feels that
the televising hasn't hurt attendance at the
games, but also that it has helped by creating
new basketball fans.
Install New Equipment
DETROIT LAKES, MINN.—A new projector
and sound system recently were installed
at the Lynn Theatre in Frazee.
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949 MW 73

1
I DES
. . NSS
. . Zeldene
. . . Ernie
. . . Mary
;
LEAK
1
A
. . Norma
. .
DES
MOINES

. . Roscoe
. . The
. . The
From the BOXOFFICE Files
(Twenty Years Ago)
TTARL LINDSTAEDT of Austin, Minn., is
building a theatre with about 1,200 seating
capacity . . . Citizens of Madison, S. D.,
are proposing to subscribe to $75,000 worth
of first mortgage bonds on a $200,000 theatre
and hotel building. A. H. Brown is
backing the movement.
R.
The Cozy, Vail, Iowa, has been sold by
M. Junkin to Ed Phillips . . . Lionel Wasson
of Cedar Rapids has been appointed
manager of the Des Moines Theatre, succeeding
S. Segelbaum, who has gone to New
York. Wasson has been associated with both
the Strand and Capitol in Des Moines for
the past two years.
F&R Enterprises has taken over the Garden
Theatre in Hibbing, Minn. This gives
the gigantic northwest circuit control over
four theatres in that town: State, Homer,
Plaza and Garden . Iowa Memorial
Ass'n, R. H. Fitzgerald, director, has completed
plans for a theatre and auditorium
in Iowa City, Iowa. The building will cost
Paul E. Noble,
approximately $50,000 . . .
former theatre manager in Butte, Mont.,
died from a heart attack.
Joe Kelso, formerly of Trenton, Mo., has
purchased the Princess Theatre, Laredo, Mo.,
from Frank Jasper . Best Theatre,
Henrietta, Mo., owned by A. H. Reichley of
Kansas City, has been leased to F. F. Schneider
of Wichita.
The Kansas City Chamber of Commerce
voted to disapprove of daylight savings time
after film men waited on them. Arthur H.
Cole, Paramount, and Charles H. Burkey,
vice-president of the MPTO of Kansas and
Western Missouri, were the committee.
The Liberty Theatre in Horton, Kas., is
operating on Sunday by accepting freewill
offerings. However, the total amount received
is not sufficient to pay the bills.
The story is told in Kansas City that a
home office representative of a theatre chain
was in the city to find out why business
was bad. When told that influenza had much
to do with it, he said that was a lot of
baloney. That night he had an attack of the
flu and had to postpone his return to New
York while he was in a local hospital.
After owning and operating the Admiral
Theatre in Kansas City for almost ten years,
Walter C. Burkey has sold it to Charles H.
Potter, who operates the Baltis. Burkey is a
brother of Charles Burkey, Oak Park owner.
The L. M. and Roy Crawford interests in
the Novelty Theatre, Topeka, have been sold
to the LawTence Amusement Co., wjhich
operates the Cozy, Gem, Crystal and Best
The Diamond Theatre, Montezuma,
Kas., owned and operated by J. W.
Reynolds, has been leased to Mrs Ida Klaussen
Borne is the new manager
of the Lyric, Glasco. Kas.
A. M. Fairchild of Fairfield, Iowa, has
taken over the Strand In Boone, Iowa, from
George Wiegmann of Boone and Harry
Frankle of Des Moines . . . C. A. Lopeman of
Tipton, Iowa, closed a deal last week whereby
G. L. DeNune of DeWitt, Iowa, becomes
owner of the Hardacre Theatre. E. R. Mc-
Danile will be resident manager. The Lopemans
have left for southern California.
The Motion Picture Theatre Owners of
Iowa held a one-day meeting recently In
Des Moines and voted to join the Allied
States organization. W. A. Steffes of Minneapolis
and Glenn Cross of Battle Creek,
Mich., were present and told of the success
met with at other state meetings. Formation
of a national organization with Abram F.
Myers in charge was discussed. About 25
per cent of the theatre owners of the state
were present.
December broke all records for distributors
in the Kansas City area . . . Kansas City's
newest theatre, the Lindbergh, large neighborhood
house at 40th and Troost, seating
1,200 persons, opened on Christmas. A. Baier
owns the property and will operate the theatre.
A $25,000 organ has been installed.
Redone Blair Theatre Reopens
BLAIR, NEB.—The Home Theatre reopened
here recently following the completion of
extensive renovation and addition of a balcony.
C. N. Robinson, operator of the theatre,
said the theatre has been closed since
August for the project.
Former office buildings on the second floor
of the building have been converted to a
projection room, balcony, men's and women's
rest rooms and a smoking lounge. New seats
have been installed on the main floor and
a new curtain and screen have been added
to the auditorium. Lobby changes include
the erection of a ticket booth at street level.
James Keller a Visitor
JUNCTION CITY. KAS.—James R. Keller,
manager of the Chief Theatre, Hiawatha,
Kas., and his wife were local visitors recently.
Keller was at one time assistant to Francis
Wright, local TEI city manager.
Dave Dallas Stages Party
For Manhattan Kids
MANHATTAN, KAS.—For the sixth year
Dave Dallas, city manager for Theatre Enterprises,
staged his annual Christmas party
for the children of Manhattan. Dallas, always
aware of the value of community goodwill,
terms the affair the Mayor's Christmas
party and always gives the local official most
of the credit. In return the city fathers go
all out to plug the event and the newspapers
are unusually generous in giving front page
news breaks.
The mayor, the city recreation commission
and various service groups provide treats
for the children—this year, candy and
oranges—and have Santa Claus on hand to
entertain the youngsters. Films are provided
free by the distributors.
Dallas was able to give the party added
publicity this year and provide a cross-plug
for a short showing at another of his houses
through a tie-in with Montgomery Ward.
He arranged with the store to devote part
of a window to a display of the toy Rudolph
the red-nosed reindeer. The window plugged
the Christmas party, announced that one of
the toys would be awarded from the stage
and that a short about Rudolph would play
at the Sosna.
The Rudolph winner was selected
through
the lucky seat method and the winner also
had the privilege of aiding Santa in distributing
gifts. The Manhattan showman
considers his annual holiday party one of
his most successful goodwill efforts.
Vandals Damage Orpheum
DAVENPORT, IOWA — Davenport police
have referred to Scott county juvenile probation
officers a case involving four boys
ranging in age from 11 to 13 years, who were
taken into custody after it was reported they
had broken a marble slab in the Orpheum
Theatre. Police said the youths were wrestling
in the restroom when they broke the
slab, valued at $150.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

. . Mrs.
. . Mr.
. .
KANSAS
£Imer Bills, Salisbury. Mo., KMTA president,
and Homer F. Strowig, Abilene. Kas..
immediate past president, both TOA directors,
were planning to attend a board meeting
January 28. 29 in Washington, D. C. . . .
R. R. Biechele, local theatre operator and
KMTA legislative chairman, was appointed
co-chairman of preparations for local observance
of American Brotherhood week
February 20-27.
Earl Jameson jr.. Central Shipping Bureau,
and Mrs. Jameson became the parents of
a son born December 28 . . . Mr. and Mrs.
C. C. Nagel, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Mr.
and Mrs. C. H. Speckman. White Bear
Lake. Minn., also became the parents of sons
recently. Both of the new fathers are engineers
with the RCA Service Co., working
out of the Kansas City offices of the organization.
.
Stanley Warko, field engineer for the Altec
Service Corp., was in Lincoln, Neb. ... Joseph
Praetz, controller for Durwood Theatres,
and Mrs. Praetz returned from a holiday
trip to Texas Louise Block,
wife of E. M. Block and associated with
him in the operation of the Civic at Sabetha.
Kas., was convalescing satisfactorily
after having been struck by a taxicab at
Falls City, Neb.
CITY
be known as the Starview, has been started
to
at a site on route 81, one mile north of
McPherson, Kas. . . . H. D. McCloughlan has
resigned as manager of the Strand, Concordia.
Kas., operated by Alex Schneiderman
. and Mrs. Kai Sorenson have
taken over the Avon at Hillsboro, Kas., recently
purchased by them from Dickinson
Theatres,
Inc.
E. F. Brown jr., formerly at the Fiesta,
Fort Smith, Ark., now is manager of the
Roseland, Flat River, Mo. ... A new heating
system now is in use at the Montrose,
Montrose. Mo., operated by Ervin Harms .
Construction of the 1,000-seat theatre being
erected at Chillicothe. Mo., to be known
as the Ben Bolt and to be operated by-
Theatre Enterprises, Inc., is expected to be
completed early next summer.
Among Kansas exhibitors seen on Filmrow
were Gus Diamond, Howard, Arkansas
City; Lee Sproule, State, Hutchinson; G. R.
Crocker, Rialto, Lyndon, and Mrs. Louise
Dunnick, Madrid, Atchison
operators glimpsed at exchanges included
Woodrow Rife. Rife, Climax Springs: Fred
Wilcox, Cozy, Lockwood; O. F. Bollinger, Marion,
Marionville; Bob Egender, Waverly,
Waverly. and John Egli jr.. Hickory, St. Joseph.
Construction of a 450-car drive-in theatre. Frank Petrik BliyS Theatre
AVON, S.
Satisfaction — Always
Missouri Theatre Supply Co.
L. J. KIMBRIEL. Manager
Phone GRand 2864
= 115 W. 18th Kansas City 8. Mo. ;
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
We Cover the U. S. Market
A different service oi long
experience and reputation
ARTHUR LEAK THEATRE SALES
D.—Frank Petrik has purchased
the local Community Theatre, formerly operated
by the Community club.
HYBRID POPCORN
Best Quality
Seazo Cocoanut Oil Seasoning
Popcorn Boxes, 10c Size
Plain and Printed Popcorn Bags
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Bills to Name KMTA
Legislative Group
KANSAS CITY—Additional appointments
to the recently established legislative committee
of the Kansas-Missouri Theatre
Ass'n will be announced by Elmer Bills, Salisbury,
Mo., president, at the monthly meeting
of its board of directors January 18 at
the Phillips hotel here.
R. R. Biechele, local theatre operator, is
chairman of the legislative committee, with
Homer F. Strowig, Abilene, as co-chairman
for Kansas, and C. E. "Doc" Cook, Maryville,
as co-chairman for Missouri. The group also
includes one additional member from each
of the legislative districts in the two states
from which the organization draws its membership.
Each of the district members in turn is
chairman of a local sub-committee composed
of one key man from each county in
his area. Appointments to the various subcommittees
in the two states now are being
suggested by the district chairmen, and the
majority of the choices are expected to be
announced by Bills during the meeting.
When appointments to sub-committees are
completed, work assigned to them will be
done at meetings to be called by the chairman
at convenient times and places. One
or another of the groups may meet with the
KMTA board at any time.
Among subjects expected to be introduced
for discussion during the January 18 session
is a proposal to replace the annual fall convention
of the association, held regularly
since its organization, with semiannual meetings
of its membership. Other topics probably
will include preparations for observance
of Brotherhood week February 20-27,
development of television and its effect on
film grosses, and activities to foster more
effective public relations.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

. . Evelyn
. . Mona
. . Lorraine
. . The
. . Joyce
. . Elmer
. . Tri-States
. .
O M AHA
T*he Omaha exchange placed third nationally
in the Warner Bros, newsreel sales drive.
William Wink was first nationally and another
Omaha salesman, Leon Mendelson, was
fifth Max McCoy has rejoined U-I as
. . .
salesman . Brandeis reported record
New Year's eve business . theatres
in this district were well ahead of the
previous New Year business. There was, however,
an increase in rowdyism. Bill Miskell,
Tri-States Theatres district manager, said
the Orpheum Theatre here turned away several
hundred dollars in business from young
celebrants.
William Gaddoni, MGM manager, celebrated
a birthday January 4. So did Lorraine
Waldman, also of MGM. Coffee and
cake were served at the exchange . . . Monty
Grassgreen. Columbia booker, spent the holidays
in Cleveland where he visited his fiancee.
Wedding date is set for January 30 ... A
daughter Amanda Helen was born recently
to Mr. and Mrs. A. L. Avery of Memphis,
Tenn. Avery used to be RKO manager
here . Cannon, MGM office manager,
her husband and their daughter spent
the New Year holiday in Chicago.
Another Monday with adverse weather held
Filmrow visitors to a bare minimum. They
included Wally Johnson, Friend, and M. R.
Jones, Red Cloud.
Every house on the Tri-States Theatres
string in this district presented New Year's
eve shows . Anderson, Uhited Artists
secretary, went to Des Moines . . . Mrs.
John Casey, mother of cashier Roy Casey of
20th-Fox, died Christmas day at Cherokee,
Iowa . Hanson, U-I secretary, spent
the holidays at her home in Ames, Neb.;
Caroline Joyce, contract clerk, at her home
in Red Oak, Iowa . Hanson, independent
booker, got a clean start for the
new year with some fancy snow shoveling
outside his office door.
Most exchanges allowed employes to leave
early the Fridays before Christmas and New
Year's . . . Charles Lorenz, MGM shipper,
is back on the job after an illness . . . Marian
Jordansen, 20th-Fox branch manager's secretary,
was out due to the flu . . . Theo Artz,
MGM contract clerk, holidayed at Kingsley,
Iowa . Waldman will leave work
January 27 prior to her marriage to Bob
Smith of Omaha. Her successor as biller
at MGM is Josephine Dobbs . . . J. S. Sanders,
owner of the Princess Theatre at Sanborn,
Iowa, was laid up with the flu . . . Wally
Johnson, Friend, Neb., exhibitor, has a new-
Hudson.
Fred Fejfar, MGM salesman, spent the holidays
at his old home in Yankton, S. D. .
Anita Bruno. MGM, has resigned . . . Visitors
along Filmrow included Mrs. D. L. Frank,
Humboldt; Phil Lannon, West Point; A. J.
Anderson, Sloan, Iowa: Clem Tramp. Oxford:
D. H Heyne, Hooper; Bob Bertram,
Schleswig, Iowa: Frank Good, Red Oak,
Iowa; Adolph Rozanek, Crete; Max Shoemaker,
Tabor, Iowa, and Arnold Johnson,
Onawa, Iowa.
Helen Kennison, MGM cashier, is retiring
after a number of years. Dorothy Kosuit
will move up to replace her and succeeding
Dorothy is Tena Salerno. New MGM blllers
are Winifred Johnson and Edna Dillin . . .
H. O. Qualsett, owner of the Lyric at Tekameh,
pepped heavy business for "The
Search" with a special herald. It played
heavily on the fact that Montgomery Clift
was an Omahan and carried testimonials
from Omaha's Mayor Cunningham, drama
critic Jake Rachman and radio announcer
Jack Sandler.
Reports Short Change Pair
In Southwestern Kansas
KANSAS CITY—The short
change artists
who have been working their old ten and
twenty dollar bill game through Iowa and
Nebraska got down into southwestern Kanas
this week, and found the going good.
George Baker, of the Baker circuit, reported
that the slickers worked the deal on two of
his theatres. Apparently, he said, the pair
consists of the same individuals who have
been operating profitably In other midwestem
states in the last month.
The two men have a variety of twists to the
game. One variety has the pair arguing over
who is to pay for the tickets and another has
one buying a child's ticket and an adult
ticket and getting the ticket seller befuddled
in a quick demand for change.
Baker has ordered his employes to take
their time in making change for anything
over a $5 bill, and not to permit anyone to
hurry them into making change—no matter
how long the line may be.
Commonwealth Circuit
Buys Waynesville House
KANSAS CITY—The 400-seat Wayne Theatre
at Waynesville, Mo., has been purchased
from J. T. Ghosen, Sedalia, Mo., by the Commonwealth
Amusement Corp., officials of the
company disclosed at its offices here.
Commonwealth Theatres, which also owns
the 600-seat Fort Wood Theatre in Waynesville,
closed the Wayne on Sunday, January
2. The 350-seat Waynesville Theatre was
closed
about one year ago.
Join 'Beautiful Doll' Cast
Supporting roles in the 20th Century-Fox
picture, "Oh, You Beautiful Doll," will be
taken by Charlotte Greenwood. Hugo Hass
and S. Z. Sakall.
New Englewood House
To Be Ready April 15
KANSAS CITY — The new 1,100-seat
Englewood Theatre now being erected by
Englewood Enterprises, Inc., at a site on
Winner road in Independence, Mo., is expected
to be completed about April 15, according
to officials of the company.
Of modernistic design, the front of the new
theatre will be of stucco. A stainless steel
marquee will be topped by converging neon
signs. The boxoffice will be built of glass
blocks, backed by neon tubing.
Under the terms of a lease signed recently,
the Englewood will be operated by
Associated Theatres, which now runs the
Granada, Plaza and Maywood in Independence,
and owns the Electric, which has been
closed.
Officers of Englewood Enterprises, Inc.,
are Homer Vaughan, president: Dr. W. C.
Aikin and L. J. Kirkham, vice-presidents;
Lee E. Mathews, treasurer, and Virgil A.
Julian, secretary and legal counsel.
J. A. Becker, president of Associated Theatres,
at present is secretary of the Kansas-
Missouri Theatre Ass'n.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 1949

. . Mel
. . . E.
. . The
. . Irving
. . Harry
. . "Hy"
. .
MINNEAPOLIS
gentile Berger, North Central Allied president
and circuit owner, and his wife will
sail from New York on the Queen Mary
January 22 to spend three months abroad.
They will visit Palestine, London, Paris, Rome
and other places . . . Bill Elson, circuit owner
and former Northwest Variety Club chief
barker, and his wife will depart next week
for a South American pleasure jaunt . . .
"Hy" Chapman, Columbia manager, who has
been on a sick leave, is back after several
months in Arizona and California, fully recovered,
and expects to resume his post in
a few days.
For the second successive year Northwest
Variety Club will sponsor a Minneapolis
Lakers professional basketball game for its
charity fund. Several thousand dollars were
realized last year and the club hopes to do
even better this time. The game will be
The New York Theatre
played March 9 . . .
Guild is sponsoring the roadshow engagement
of "Hamlet" which will open at the
Century here January 21. Night prices will
be $1.80 and $2.40 and matinees $1.50 and
$1.80. There will be two performances daily.
Virginia Hoffstrom, St. Paul Dispatch film
editor, wrote: "As far as Hollywood is concerned,
1949 is going to be a year of determined
penny-pinching, which we may
cheerfully hail as an indication that the
movies will improve. It is paradoxical but
nevertheless true that pictures made on relatively
small budgets usually have more to
offer than the lavish productions."
Martie Lebedoff, owner of two local neighborhood
de luxe theatres, the Brynwood and
Homewood, is a friend of Sid Gillman, Minneapolis
native who has been named head football
coach at the University of Cincinnati.
Lebedoff is a football fan and his friends
are wondering if he'll take time off from his
theatres next fall to serve as chief scout
for Gillman . . . Ralph Maw, MGM district
manager, is back from a visit to the Omaha
branch.
Sheldon Grengs, Eau Claire, Wis., and
Tomy Paulsen, Amery, Wis., were among the
exhibitors visiting Filmrow . Turner,
MGM supervisor of short subjects in the
Bishop district and son of George Turner,
veteran MGM salesman, was one of five such
supervisors in the U.S. to win prizes for
doing the best work and accomplishing the
most results in 1948. He'll receive $500 in
cash in lieu of a trip to Hollywood as his
prize.
The RKO branch plans to hold its second
Ned Depinet drive sales meeting February 8
with Walter Branson, division manager: Jerry
Gittleson, his assistant, and Herb Greenblatt
conducting it again. The Sioux Falls,
S. D., branch leads the entire country in
the opening weeks of the drive and the local
branch is second.
Louis Orlove, MGM exploiteer, was in from
Milwaukee for a week. He was looking for
some collie dogs to use in his exploitation
of "Hills of Home" in La Crosse and Eau
Claire. He has a dandy tieup with Red
Heart dog food which supplies dog identification
markers and booklets on canine care
to patrons of the film which has Lassie as
its
star.
Eddie Burke is
back on the 20th-Fox sales
staff to fill the vacancy created by the
resignation of Jack Cohen, city salesman.
Twentieth-Fox previewed "Unfaithfully
Yours" at the Century where the picture's
reception was highly favorable . . . Dick
Scheinbaum, former RKO salesman here
and now with the same company out of Chicago,
was in Minneapolis on a visit. He has
fully recovered his health and looks fit as
a fiddle.
Saul Lebedoff, former Minneapolis exhibitor
and now a resident of Los Angeles and
owner of a theatre there, writes that he saw
a preview of MGM's "Act of Violence" and
was so impressed by it that he had to let
his local exhibitor friends know what an
outstanding offering it is. He writes, "Exhibitors
owe it to themselves and the public
to put this picture over."
The Radio City used "The Paleface" as the
feature at its New Years eve show . . . William
Pross, formerly of Minneapolis and now exploiteer
for MGM out of Denver, visited his
brother here during the Christmas holidays
L. Peaslee, Stillwater, Minn., exhibitor,
visited on Filmrow . Chapman,
Paramount salesman, spent the yuietide holidays
in New Orleans.
.
.
Gene Meredith, president of the Warner
Bros, club, supervised preparations for its
Christmas party Braverman, Columbia
salesman, was visiting in Ohio
Charles Bliss, booker at Universal, became
the father of a daughter . Chapman.
Columbia branch manager on leave of absence
because of his health, was in California.
Fire early Christmas morning destroyed the
Music Box, one of the most popular loop
night clubs . new Riverview, operated
by the Volk brothers, was opened December
29. The theatre seats 800. and is one of the
most beautiful houses in the city . . . Marion
Jorgenson, Warner Bros, stenographer, was
wearing a new engagement ring.
Sentence Appealed
Jail
MINNEAPOLIS—Pending an appeal, Jerry
Silvers, who operates the Cannon Theatre.
Cannon Falls, Minn., has been released on
$2,000 bail after his conviction on a second
degree assault charge and a sentence of not
more than five years. Sentence has been suspended
until January 18 while the appeal is
prepared by his attorney, who called the conviction
"a very unjust verdict." Silver was
alleged to have attacked a fellow Cannon
Falls resident during an argument.
MAC Wins License Tiif
With Watertown, S. D.
MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Amusement
Co. emerged victorious in its tiff with
Watertown. S. D., city officials when it was
granted a renewal of its theatre licenses without
agreeing to reopen the Metropolitan Theatre
as demanded by Mayor G. A. Gilbert. As
a result, the circuit, which controls the town,
will continue to operate the Lyric, now open,
and the Plaza, which is being readied for
opening.
Renewal of the licenses was blocked by the
city council, ostensibly at Mayor Gilbert's
instigation, when the Minnesota Amusement
Co. refused to reopen the Metropolitan, one
of its properties, because it considers the
house too dilapidated and poorly located. Another
theatre, the Colonial, is being remodeled
to augment the Lyric.
The renewal followed a blast at city officials
by the Watertown daily. Previously the
mayor had declared that he might operate
the Metropolitan, but it is doubtful now, al-i
though the Minnesota Amusement Co. has
announced the theatre is for sale to anybody
desiring to operate it.
Town officials and the daily newspaper had
claimed that with only one theatre in operation—another,
the Grand, had. been destroyed
by fire some months ago—Watertown
has been deprived of "adequate" motion picture
entertainment. It also was charged that
the circuit was "stalling" in getting the Plaza
ready.
Delays in the rebuilding of the Colonial
have been due to difficulties in obtaining
building materials, according to circuit officials.
The theatre is expected to be in operation
by mid-March, it is expected to and
be one of the most beautiful showhouses in
that section of South Dakota.
Variety of Omaha Gives
$1,100 to 5 Institutions
OMAHA—The Omaha Variety Club, which
has played Santa Claus on many occasions,
dipped into its sack again to leave surprise
gifts for four Omaha institutions. Chief
Barker F. A. Van Husan signed checks for
$1,100 and sent them special delivery to the
institutions. Recipients were:
Children's Memorial hospital. $500. The
club and exhibitors in the territory have
contributed almost $15,000 to this institution
through outright gifts, children's matinees,
etc.
Masonic Home for Boys, $300.
St. James orphanage. $150.
The Booth Memorial hospital, $150.
"These gifts come as a surprise to these
institutions," Van Husan said. "We think it
is an especially appropriate time to offer
these donations and we are happy to be able
to do this at Christmas time."
Although the Variety Club has given aid
to Omaha institutions throughout the year,
this is the first time that donations have
been made at Christmas time, he explained.
Canvass for Free Shows
BENNETT, IOWA — Members of the
Brotherhood of Peace church here are canvassing
businessmen of the town on the idea
of sponsoring free motion pictures here during
the summer months. It was reported
the majority of businessmen favor the idea.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8. 1949

ill; Kansas City Grosses
Highest in Months
KANSAS CITY—Grosses at local first run
theatres generally zoomed to one of the highest
levels in many months with the beginning
of the new year. The leaders were
"Words and Music." dualed with "Leather
Gloves" at the Midland, and "Every Girl
Should Be Married" paired with "Indian
Agent" at the Orpheum. After shattering
all house records for 1948 in its initial stanza
at the Paramount, "The Paleface" continued
to draw heavily in a second round. "Yellow
Sky," day-date at the Tower, Uptown and
Fairway, gave the three houses their best
totals in recent months.
(Average Is 100)
Esquire—Rose of Washington Square (20th-Fox);
Runaway Daughter (SG), reissues 110
Midland—Words and Music (MGM), Leather
Gloves (Col)
dian Agent (RKO)
Faramount-The Paleface (Para) 2nd .vk 140
Roxy—Panhandle (Mono), Sixteen Fathoms Deep
(Mono) 90
Tower, Uptown, (20th-Fox)..140
Fairway—Yellow Sky
Farm Prosperity Adds Rosy Tint
To Boxoffice Picture for 1949
MINNEAPOLIS—The bright farm outlook
gives a rosy complexion to the boxoffice
picture in this territory for 1949,
industry heads point out. Theatres, like
practically all
other lines of business, find
the going smooth when agriculture prospers.
The Minneapolis Sunday Tribune
devoted its lead editorial to the "happy
and prosperous new year" that apparently
is in prospect for northwest farmers.
"Assured of federal price supports, these
farmers need not fear losses from unexpected
drops in basic commodity prices,"
the editorial stated. "Their farms and
equipment are valued at record highs.
They have money in the bank and their
debts are dwindling.
"Assets of Minnesota farmers alone
reached an all-time high of 5.3 billion
dollars in 1948, according to Rex W. Cox,
university farm economist. Even after
subtracting debts the total valuation is
an impressive 4.9 billion. Cash income
from sales of farm products dropped from
$1,344,000 in 1947 to $1,300,000 in 1948, but
bumper yields resulted in an over-all farm
inventory increase of 5 per cent.
"Some of the rise, of course, can be attributed
to inflation, but that is not the
whole story. A good many farms have
undergone very real improvement. In contrast
to what happened after World War I,
most farmers have been spending their
high incomes for machinery and improvements
rather than for land speculations
. . ."
'Paleface' and 'Girl'
Lead in Twin City
MINNEAPOLIS—Sensational business was
chalked up at two local houses—the Radio
City and the Orpheum. "The Paleface" and
"Every Girl Should Be Married" were the
reasons. Both pictures proved to be terrific
magnets. The Bob Hope opus was out in
front, but "Every Girl" also exhibited exceptional
boxoffice strength. "Yellow Sky" at
the State also did well, and "The Mikado"
at the World was far from a weakling. A
return engagement of "Sitting Pretty"
brought good trade to the Pix. A $1 scale
at some of the houses New Year's eve helped.
Nice weather also was an asset. It was the
second week for "Blood on the Moon," "Macbeth."
"Mexican Hayride" and "One Sunday
Afternoon." In its first week at the Lyceum,
"Macbeth" exceeded expectations and turned
in satisfactory business. .
Aster—Zanzibar (U-I); Fantasia (RKO), reissues.... 90
Century—One Sunday Afternoon (WB), 2nd d. t.
wk ... 85
Gopher—Model Wife (U-I), Unfinished Business
(U-I), reissues 90
Lyceum—Macbeth (Rep), 2nd wk 90
(U-I), d. t. Lyric-Mexican Hayride 2nd wk 90
Pix—Sitting Pretty (20th-Fox), 2nd run 95
Radio City—The Paleface (Para) 200
RKO Orpheum—Every Girl Should Be Married
(RKO) 180
S-a:-:—Yellow Sky ,.'-r F:x» 125
World—The Mikado (U-I). 110
Another good draw was "Every Girl Should
Be Married" and "Indian Agent" at the
Brandeis. First runs generally perked up for
Christmas. Weather was not good, first a
heavy snow, then rain and finally cold and
more snow.
Omaha—Rogues' Regiment (U-I); Bungalow 13
110
(20th-Fox)
Orpheum—Yellow Sky (20th-Fox); lungle Patrol
(20th-Fox) .140
Paramount—That Wonderful Urge (20th-Fox) 95
RKO Brandeis—Every Girl Should Be Married
(RKO), Indian Agent (RKO) 130
State—Fighting Seabees (Rep). Flying Tigers
Town—Canon City (EL), 2nd run Marshal of Reno
(Rep), reissue; Captain Calamity (REG), reissue,
split with Sheriff of Cimarron (Rep), reissue;
liggs and Maggie in Society (Mono) 100
'Joan' Showing Scheduled
MINNEAPOLIS—RKO's "Joan of Arc"
opens day and date at the Minneapolis and
St. Paul RKO Orpheums February 12 for its
territory premiere. It will be roadshown at
advanced admission prices. Republic's "Macbeth"
comes into the Lyceum, legitimate
roadshow house, next week as a roadshow the Orpheum Theatre here as the theatre
management
picture at advanced admissions, but on a building came under the new
continuous policy. Ed Benjamin, former of the Otis Clark Realty Co. of Chicago,
Warner Bros.' exploiteer and more recently
mayor handling
which leased the building. The Fox firm had
Wahrer.
secretary to the here, is ex-
leased the building from Mrs. Julia
ploitation.
Julius H. Geertz Sells
Davenport, Iowa, Sunset
DAVENPORT. IOWA—Julius H. Geertz,
alderman and theatre owner here for more
than 31 years, has sold his interest in the
Sunset Theatre to J. Robert Williams of
Hannibal, Mo. The sale involved the equipment
and goodwill but not the building.
Geertz, who sold the Uptown Theatre to his
son-in-law, Richard Moore, last July, said
he is disposing of his business interests with
an eye to retiring. He still retains his connection
with theatre operations as president
of the Mississippi Valley Amusement Park
and the Bel-Air Theatre Corp.
Fort Madison Orpheum
To Chicago Realty Firm
FORT MADISON. IOWA—Fox Midwest
Theatres Co. presented its final picture at
It was not learned immediately whether it
still will be used as a theatre.
Des Moines' Downtown Grosses
Climb After Pre -Holiday Slump
DES MOINES— All downtown theatres continued
to show an increase in business over
the pre-Christmas boxoffice receipts. Better
than average business was reported by managers
of the Orpheum, Des Moines, Paramount
and Strand theatres. The good attendance
was in spite of several conflicting
attractions— '.he Coin Bowl backetball tournament,
"Hellzapoppin' " at the KRNT Radio
Theatre, and an unusual number of name
stars appearing in local night clubs.
Des Moines—The Paleface (Para) 115
Orpheum-Every Girl Should Be Married (RKO);
Indian Agent (RKO), 2nd wk
Paramount—Words and Music MGM) 1U5
Strand—Rogues' Regiment (U-I) 105
Omaha First Runs Gross Well
Despite Bad Weather
OMAHA—"Yellow Sky" and "Jungle Patrol"
pulled excellently at the Orpheum Theatre.
Allied Directs a Poke
At Dewey Band Wagon
Minneapolis—In its current bulletin
North Central Allied takes a slap at
the Hollywood luminaries who plugged
Dewey on the Dewey Band Wagon radio
show the day before election. It suggests
that the film stars "should stick
to their last."
"We have a hunch that the hour-long
Dewey Band Wagon program, featuring
Hollywood stars the night before election,
had something to do with the results next
day," the bulletin says. "The script was
that lousy. Maybe it was written by
Democrats in disguise.
"It only goes to prove that Hollywood
stars, like shoemakers, should stick to
their
last."
Holiday Organ Concerts
WASHINGTON. IOWA—A series of organ
concerts was presented at the State Theatre
here during the holidays by Mrs. Louise
Pratt Miller of Jefferson City. Mo. The concerts
preceded the regular film matinee and
were carried to shoppers by means of loudspeakers.
Additional concerts were held preceding
the evening showings Monday through
Friday between Christmas and New Year's.
Sam Sosna Family Visits
MANHATTAN, KAS.—Sam Sosna of San
Diego visited here recently. Sosna, former
owner of the Sosna Theatre here, now operates
two houses in San Diego. He was accompanied
by Mrs. June Sosna and his son
Sam jr. The Sosnas spent the holidays in
Moberly. Mo., with Louis Sosna, owner of a
theatre in that city.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949
79

at
: January
Booth Man Is Killed
In Theatre Flames
BROOTEN, MINN. — Lawrence Hess, 36,
motion picture projectionist at the Brooten
Theatre, was killed in a fire which destroyed
the showhouse and adjoining buildings with
an estimated loss of S150.000. The fire, which
occurred December 25, raged seven hours before
it was brought under control.
Discovered about 10:20 p. m„ the flames
spread quickly. Fire departments were called
from six nearby towns. About 20 persons in
the theatre when the fire broke out escaped
without injury.
Hess's body was recovered about an hour
after the fire started. He is survived by
his wife and three children.
Brooten is located about 90 miles northwest
of Minneapolis. The Brooten was the only
theatre in the town.
To Revive 'Big Parade'
In Art Gallery Series
KANSAS CITY—The series of American
film classics being sponsored by the Museum
of Modern Art at the William Rockhill Nelson
gallery here will be continued with showings
January 21, 23 of "The Big Parade,"
made in 1925 and featuring John Gilbert and
Renee Adoree.
Local showings of the film classics are being
sponsored by Fox Midwest Theatres, Inc.
Remaining films to be shown include "Don
Q. Son of Zorro" il925i, February 11, 13;
"Beau Geste" H926>. February 18, 20; "All
Quiet on the Western Front" (1930), February
25, 27; "Duck Soup" (1933), March 18.
20, and "Lives of a Bengal Lancer" H935),
April 1, 3.
State Theatre Is Opened
In Bridgewater, Iowa
BRIDGEWATER, IOWA—The new State
Theatre held its grand opening here recently.
The house, which seats 195, is owned by G. O.
Dunkerson of Fontanelle. A sandwich shop
is located just off the lobby.
Omaha Taverns Add Films
OMAHA—Something new has been added
at several Omaha taverns—motion pictures.
Other barkeeps protested that tavern keepers
who use motion picture projectors to show
films to their customers should pay an extra
entertainment fee. However, welfare inspector
Tom Knapp consulted the city legal department
and came back with the report that
the extra fee applied only to "live shows."
Milking Contest on Stage
MASON CITY. IOWA—A cow-milking
contest was held the stage of the Lake
on
Theatre here New Year's eve by C. E. Mosher,
manager. Two cows, furnished by a local
farmer, were milked by four milkmaids competing
for prizes offered by business firms
of Mason City.
New Eguipment at Avon
DYSART. IOWA—New sound and projection
equipment has been installed at the
Avon Theatre here by Manager Robert
Savereide. The theatre was closed while the
improvements were being made.
Down-fro-Earth Plots
Tops in
Rural Area
MINNEAPOLIS—The things smalltown
theatre patrons in this territory like
in their film fare are stories with a
down-to-earth plot, plenty of laughs
and good musical numbers, according to
replies received from exhibitors in response
to questionnaires sent out by
North Central Allied here.
Exhibitors stated their patrons like outdoor
stories and stories depicting happy
family life. "Scudda Hoo, Scudda Hay,"
•The Best Years of Our Lives," "I Remember
Mama," "The Fuller Brush
Man," "The Egg and I," "Easter Parade,"
"Where There's Life," "Sitting Pretty"
and "Green Grass of Wyoming" were
mentioned the most times by the exhibitors
as being favorites of the past season.
Objectionable qualities were listed byexhibitors
as sex, crime and costume
films.
The report was a part of a national
survey being undertaken by National Allied
States to help Hollywood producers
discover what the public wants in the
way of pictures. Questionnaires received
here are being forwarded to the national
office by S. D. Kane, executive director.
Volk Percentage Suits
Continued to January
MINNEAPOLIS—Another continuance has
been granted by the federal district court in
the suit of the major film companies here
against Bill and Sidney Volk, circuit owners,
for alleged false returns on percentage pictures.
Hearing on the application of Ben
Deinard, counsel for the defendants, for a
preliminary injunction to restrain the plaintiffs
from examining the theatre books was
scheduled for last week, but David Shearer,
attorney for the film companies, again asked
and received a continuance, this time to
January 10. Deinard interposed no objection
to another delay.
Deinard will argue that the injunction
should be forthcoming on the grounds that
the film contracts involved are invalid because
of clauses therein specifying the minimum
boxoffice admission to be charged for
the pictures.
Flanagan Death Top News
OMAHA—The Associated Press, rating the
top ten Nebraska news stories of 1948, placed
the death of Father Flanagan first. The Boys
Town founder died May 16 in Berlin. The
November blizzard which put the film industry
temporarily at a standstill and floods
which drowned spring business outstate were
ranked ninth and tenth.
Tri-States Buys Building
DAVENPORT. IOWA—The Tri-States Theatre
Corp. of Des Moines has purchased the
three-story Esquire Theatre Bldg. here for
S137.500 from Mr. and Mrs. T J. Walsh.
New Sound at Moville Gem
MOVILLE. IOWA—Installation of new wiring
and sound equipment has been completed
at the Gem Theatre here. Mr. and
Mrs. Frank Scott, owners, plan now to remodel
the front and put up a new marquee.
Two Exhibitors Complain
To North Central Allied
MINNEAPOLIS—In reply to a questionnaire
sent out two weeks ago, North Central Allied
received two complaints from independent
exhibitor members against two different distributors
regarding the manner in which competitive
bidding is being employed. They
have been forwarded by S. D. Kane, executive
director, to the Department of Justice at
Washington for investigation to determine if
there have been consent decree violations.
Kane charges that there has been.
One exhibitor alleges that he has been
turned down on product for which he submitted
the highest bids. The other claims
that competitive bidding has hurt him in
various ways.
Kane says the complaints w'ere submitted
to him confidentially and he will not divulge
at this time the identity of either the
exhibitors or the distributors involved.
North Central Directors
To Meet on January 10
MINNEAPOLIS—North Central Allied has
set January 10 for its next board of directors
meeting and for a report on the national
Allied convention in New Orleans. The date
for the annual convention here will be set
at the first 1949 meeting. The convention
probably will be held some time in late April
or early May.
S. D. Kane, executive director, said a
threatened suit against one of the companies
accused of "forced selling" will be held in
abeyance until after a meeting of national
Allied directors to consider the matter.
Kansas-Missouri Allied
To Seek New Members
KANSAS CITY—Intensive efforts to increase
the membership of the Kansas-Missouri
Allied unit will be launched by the organization
soon, according to C. M. "Parky"
Parkhurst, recently appointed general manager,
who assumed his new duties last Monday
< 3 1 its offices here.
Parkhurst was expected to go to Wichita
within a few days for extended conferences
with O. F. Sullivan. Kansas-Missouri Allied
unit president.
Later Parkhurst will spend about half of
his time in the field, giving his attention to
contacts with Allied members in connection
with their theatre operation problems.
Gene Autry and Champion
In Kansas City Jan. 23
KANSAS CITY — Gene Autry, western
film star, will make a personal appearance
with his horse Champion in the Municipal
Auditorium here the afternoon of January 23.
In the company supporting the cowboy star
will be Rufe Davis, Pat Buttram. Johnny
Bond, the Pinafores, the Cass County Boys
and the Melody Ranch Hands, all of whom
appear with Autry on his radio broadcasts.
Bonuses of $1,450 Given
MISSOURI VALLEY. IOWA—Employes of
the Rialto Theatre here received bonus checks
totaling $1,450 at a banquet given by the
management last week.
BOXOFFICE
:
1949

Allen at Cleveland
To Warner Circuit
CLEVELAND—The Allen Theatre passed
out of a joint Warner-RKO ownership January
1 to become a wholly owned Warner
property. This is one of the first houses
affected by the recent RKO announcement
that the company would give up its interest
in partially owned theatres.
Nat Wolf. Warner Ohio zone manager, under
whose direction the Allen Theatre falls,
said there will be no change either of policy
or personnel. First run pictures will continue
as the house policy and Howard Higley, who
has managed the Allen for more than ten
years, will continue in that capacity.
This gives Warners two downtown first
run houses again. For 15 years, Warners
operated the Hippodrome and the Lake. This
fall the company failed to renew its lease
on the Lake, and the lease was acquired by
the Community Theatres, an independent
circuit. The Hippodrome has been purchased
by the Telenews owners, but the Warner
lease still has about two years to go.
In acquiring the Allen, Warners is protecting
itself against the possible loss of the Hippodrome
within a matter of a few years.
The Allen Theatre has had a varied career.
It was built by the Allen interests of Canada
and was operated by them about a year. They
sold it to Loew's, and Loew's in turn sold it
to RKO. The house has 3,000 seats, and is
strictly in the de luxe class.
Theatres in 5 Counties
Hit by Power Failure
SPRINGFIELD—Theatres in Clark, Champaign,
Madison, Union and Logan counties
were forced to refund admission charges to
patrons twice in one week when they were
plunged into darkness by failure of electric
service.
Two theatres in Urba'na, two in London
and one in Mechanicsburg, operated by
Chakeres Theatres, Inc., were affected by the
power failure. The first shutdown occurred
on Thursday night and the second on Sunday
afternoon.
A quick switch to emergency power kept
Springfield theatres operating after only a
short delay. One local theatre, the Majestic,
was out for approximately one hour during
the Thursday night break when the changeover
to emergency power blew out all fuses
in the house.
Harris E. Miller, vice-president of the
Ohio Edison Co., said the failure occurred
when three 12,500-volt electric cables serving
a substation "burned out."
While the Thursday night blackout caused
complete shutdown of most theatres in the
five counties, the Sunday failure Was repaired
early enough for the evening shows
to go on as scheduled.
Religious Film Shown
PITTSBURGH—"The Way of Peace." a
Christian film produced by the East-West
studios in the third dimensional animation
and narrated by Lew Ayres. is being exhibited
at churches and missions in this area. This
is the first religious picture released in America
which presents a vital message through
the use of puppets and miniature sets.
J. F. Mulone Opens Cheswick Theatre
Which He and Family Built in 3 Years
CHESWICK. PA.—The recent opening of
the new Cheswick Theatre here was the
culmination of three years of hard labor by
owner-manager Joseph F. Mulone, who singlehandedly
did 90 per cent of the actual physical
labor in building the theatre.
Mulone, a local merchant whose business
establishment is directly across the street
from the new theatre, began construction
of the house three years ago. Then suddenly
his financing backed out. So he pitched
in double-duty, working weekdays, nights,
weekends and holidays.
His family gave assistance and encouragement.
His father Nick helped out. His wife
Mollie was in there pitching and his 4-yearold
son Nickie helped by carrying the measuring
instruments. Local citizens and surrounding
communities watched in amazement
as Mulone's work gave the theatre
shape and form.
When the Cheswick opened recently members
of the motion picture industry who attended
the event said they were surprised
and pleased at the completeness and beauty
of the theatre.
It is modern in design, construction and
detail. The auditorium is acoustically perfect
and decorations are complete from wall
damask to stage, curtains, lighting system,
Heywood-Wakefield seats, carpets, a standee
rail with indirect lighting, outer lobby with
concession stand, handsome enameled metal
front and steel and glass marquee with cutout
neon trimmed name letters.
Ban Television for Tenants
TOLEDO—Tenants in Toledo's low-rent
housing projects may not install television
or special type aerials, according to Raymond
Kirby, director of the Toledo Metropolitan
Housing Authority. "The authority feels that
tenants can better save their money toward
down payments on their own homes." he said.
All requests for permission to install aerials
have been refused. The ban does not extend
to special housing projects exclusively for
veterans, he said.
'Don Juan' in All-Day Previews
PITTSBURGH—Warners' "Adventures of
Don Juan" was presented at advanced prices
in a dozen cities of this exchange area as an
all-day preview December 31. The engagements
were several months in advance of the
regular release. The film played through
matinee, evening and midnight at the Ritz.
Clarksburg: Strand. Greensburg; Smoot,
Parkersburg: Strand. Altoona; Columbia,
Sharon: Butler. Butler: State. Johnstown:
Latonia, Oil City: Warner. Erie; Fairmount,
Fairmont, and Warner. Morgantown.
No Colosseum Dance
PITTSBURGH—The supper-dance planned
by the local loge of the Colosseum of Motion
Picture Salesmen ror January 16 has
been
canceled.
The projection booth is modern and spacious
and is equipped with automatic light
and curtain controls. On one side of the
booth is the manager's office and on the
other side, a nine-seat cry room. Restrooms
are on the auditorium floor near the front
exits and in the rear of the theatre Mulone
built a special parking lot for more than
200 cars.
Hanna Theatre Service does the booking
for the Cheswick and equipment was furnished
by Atlas Theatre Supply.
Members of the industry who were invited
to the opening of the Cheswick and who
attended a reception at the Mulone home
included Philip "Blacky" Bordonaro and
Joseph J. McClocky, president and business
agent respectively of Local 444, IATSE;
George Kaduk. projectionist at the Cheswick;
Mr. and Mrs. Walter D. Stucky, Heywood-Wakefield;
Saal Gottlieb and Eddie
Moriarty, MGM: David C. Silverman and
Irving Frankel, RKO: Steve jr., and George
Rodnok, the Oaks Theatre, Oakmont; Mr.
and Mrs. William G. Serrao and son Billy,
the Circle, New Kensington; Mr. and Mrs.
Louis E. Hanna, Acme-Franklin-Hanna Service;
Mr. and Mrs. Fred Solomon, American
Poster Supply; Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Gibson,
Milton and Carolina Gibson, Mr. and Mrs.
Ben F. Stahl and Jim Vazzana, Atlas Theatre
Supply; W. Cocklin, Altec Service Corp.;
Mr. and Mrs. Lester M. Stewart, Pittsburgh
Stage and Equipment studios, and Klingensmith,
tradepaper correspondent.
Ashland Opera House Sale
Up for Voters' Approval
ASHLAND—The old Opera House here,
requiring repairs costing more than $12,000
in order to pass state building laws, will be
sold if voters approve a referendum issue in
the May primary election. The building was
condemned in 1935.
The city discontinued the use of the building
as a theatre, but has made sufficient repairs
to permit continued use of the second
floor by the city library, which has been
housed there since 1899.
In 1940. voters approved a $230,000 bond
issue to be used for a new building on the
site to contain a theatre, a library and city
offices. However, Ashland county common
pleas court ruled that the city could not build
and maintain a theatre to lease to a private
enterprise in competition with similar enterprises
for revenue purposes. No appeal was
made from that decision.
In the last two years, the council has tried
twice to sell the building to the highest bidder.
In 1946 it rejected a bid of $51,150 as too
low, and in 1947 turned down an offer because
of public protests. The Opera House
is located in the center of the downtown section
covering 15.518 square feet of valuable
ground. The theatre section was turned over
to film interests in 191'6 and the city received
about $800 in monthly rentals until the building
was condemned.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949
ME
81

. . The
. . The
From the BOXOFFICE Files
(Twenty Years Ago)
•THE ENRIGHT Theatre, the new Stanley
Co. S3.000.000 house in East Liberty, Pittsburgh,
was opened December 28. The name
was chosen to perpetuate the name of the
first Pittsburgher to give his life in World
War I. The 3,500-seater located at Penn avenue
and Beatty streets is of French modernistic
style and considered one of the most
beautiful community theatres in America.
Management is in the hands of James F.
Balmer. familiarly known as "Jimmy."
Twenty-five years ago three brothers, sons
of Russian immigrants, were working in
n/
New Castle, a few miles from Pittsburgh.
That was about the time the motion picture
craze first struck this country and the three
boys rented a room, put in 95 seats, and
started a motion picture show.
Later, the brother? came to Pittsburgh, established
a film exchange, and eventually
made their way to California and became
part of the motion picture industry.
Last week, two of the brothers, Harry M.
and Albert Warner, returned to Pittsburgh to
attend the opening of the Enright.
The Ambridge Theatre, new house of the
Ambridge Amusement Co., Ambridge, Pawas
opened December 24. It cost approximately
$500,000 and has a seating capacity
of 1,600. It is in charge of M. B. Nadley
. . . C. B. Hall, owner of the Virginia Theatre
in Parkersburg, W. Va., will erect a 950-seat
DRIVE-IN TOWERS I
Erected Within 3 -Weeks!
house there costing about $75,000. exclusive
of the site.
Tom Moule has booked in the Pathe Sound
News for the Madison in Detroit. During
last week his entire show was in sound or
talking, and the orchestra has been released.
With the dropping of the orchestra at the
Adams, as well, it means he saves about
$3,000 a week.
The Bad Axe Theatre in Caro. Mich., has
been sold by F. H. Schukert to Byron Watson
of Knoxville, Iowa . . . The Lake Linden
Opera House in Calumet, Mich., recently was
destroyed by fire with an estimated loss of
$40,000 . . . G. L. Miller is again a Michigan
exhibitor, having just opened the new Our
Theatre on Leonard street in Grand Rapids.
The Better Business Bureau of Detroit has
asked local exhibitors to distinguish between
"sound" and "talking" pictures in their advertising
. . . Yeggs knocked the combination
from a safe in the Family Theatre, Monroe,
Mich., and escaped with $1,300.
Lawrence E. Gordon of Battle Creek,
lawyer who is president of two local finance
companies, has been engaged to assist
the president of the Butterfield circuit in
the handling of financial matters . . . James
V. Allen, Detroit manager for Warners since
the office was established, has been promoted
to assistant sales manager with headquarters
in New York. He was succeeded in
Detroit by Norman Ayers, former Philadelphia
manager for WB.
"Red" Brady has opened offices in the
Film Bldg. under the name of the Brady
Electric Co. in Detroit . . . W. D. Ward, who
makes his headquarters in the Film Bldg. in
Detroit, is spending a great deal of his time
in Ohio where he is playing "Ten Nights in
a Bar Room" . Baldwin Theatre in
Royal Oak, Mich., now is under the direction
of Mabel Baldwin of that city, with R. W.
Eberhard in managerial charge.
We contract at a fixed price to completely design and engineer your
screen tower, foundation, screen surface and wings. Efficient erection
procedure and ample supply of fabricated sections usually enables us
to complete the job within 3 weeks. Complete insurance coverage is
carried during construction for owner's protection.
Scientifically designed foundation beams assure maximum stability and
exceptionally high wind ratings. Built-in tilt feature. Our new screen
surface results in a picture of superior quality.
Unusual soil conditions solved scientifically.
A WIDE SELECTION OF DESIGNS
WE CONTRACT FOR COMPLETE DRIVE-IN JOBS!
THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO
109 Michigan St. Ph. ADams 8107 Toledo 2, Ohio
The Kunsky Theatres entertained 700 orphan
children at their Capitol Theatre in
Detroit . . . C. R. Beechler, owner of the
Rialto Theatre in Charlotte, Mich., plans
to build a new picture house, to cost approximately
$40,000 Howell Theatre
.
in Howell. Mich., built by the Schultz Amusement
Co. of Detroit, was formally opened to
the public early last month.
To Devote Time to Circuit
Arthur Gould. Chicago, will devote full
time to his own circuit, having resigned as
assistant to Jack Kitsch, president of Allied
of
Illinois.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

—
Distributors Seeking
Look in Manos Books
COLUMBUS—An injunction order which
restrains George A.
Manos of Toronto, Ohio,
and associated theatres corporations from
destroying or otherwise disposing of books,
records and documents of 12 theatre operations
in various Ohio towns for the 12-year
period, Jan. 1, 1937 to Dec. 22, 1948, has been
signed by U.S. Judge Mel G. Underwood in
the percentage fraud actions brought by eight
major distributing companies.
The plaintiffs informed District Judge Underwood
that Manos had misrepresented the
income drawn by pictures show rn over a
period of years in his theatres.
They said Manos had admitted in tax court
testimony that a true report of his income
had been submitted annually to the Bureau
of Internal Revenue and a false report to the
picture companies. Bringing the action were
Warner Bros., Paramount, 20th Century-Fox,
Loew's, Inc., RKO, United Artists. Columbia
and Universal.
The order resulted from a motion made to
Judge Underwood in the percentage fraud
actions by distributor counsel as a result
of disclosures in a case tried December 10 in
the U.S. tax court, sitting in Cleveland, before
Judge C. R. Arundel. The latter action
had been brought on petition of Manos, Louise
E. Manos, his wife, and Manos Amusements,
Inc., against the collector of internal revenue,
on petition to review assessments and
deficiencies in income taxes paid and penalties
for the years 1937-39, as to George
Manos, and for the years 1940-41, as to
Manos Amusements. Both are defendants in
the above percentage actions, which have
been pending in federal court here.
'Film Maturity' Foreseen
By Council President
CLEVELAND — George D. Culler of the
Cleveland Museum of Art, president of the
Motion Picture Council of Greater Cleveland,
says, in his December bulletin: "I think we
may safely assume that, if not in the year to
come, certainly in the coming years, the film,
which has already attained phenomenal
growth as an industry, will become socially,
educationally and artistically responsible and
mature. And this desirable state will be,
at least in part, because of the efforts of organizations
such as ours."
Cleveland Ochs Group
Incorporates in Indiana
MUNCIE. IND.—Articles of incorporation
have been filed here for the Ochs-Indiana
Corp., to engage in the business of buying,
managing and operating theatres along with
general food and amusement business. Earl
G. DeFur is named resident agent and the
firm's place of business is listed as on the
Yorktown pike. Directors are John A., James
H., Herbert J., Mary S., Mary Elizabeth
Ochs, Patricia Ochs Hill, Marilyn Ochs Serffies,
Earl Serffies and Peter P. Hill, all of
Cleveland.
Hearing on Callier Case
Scheduled January 10
DETROIT—Renewed activity in the field
of arbitration is marking the turn of the
year, with the case brought by the Callier
Life
of Curley Wilson, Doorman,
More Thrilling Than Film Tales
CLEVELAND— What, if anything, does
the average theatre patron think about
the doorman who tears off stubs and deposits
them in the ticket box when Mr. and
Mrs. Patron and all the little Patrons pass
into the auditorium to live for a short
CURLEY WILSON
period, a vicarious life of excitement and
adventure? If he does give the doorman
a thought in passing, it may be to remark
how dull and colorless his life must be.
Little do Mr. and Mrs. Patron and the
little Patrons know that often the silent
doorman, who spends his working hours
tearing stubs, has experienced more excitement
and has seen more high adventure
than is shown on the screen.
Take, for example, "Cap" Curley Wilson,
for many years doorman at the RKO Palace
Theatre. For more than 50 years,
Wilson was a wild animal trainer. During
those years, while zoo keeper at the Roger
Williams Park zoo in Providence, R. I., he
Enterprises, operating the Callier Theatre at
Belding, set for hearing on January 10. This
case, to be heard by Albert Meder, Detroit,
as arbiter, involves the conflict with the
Silver and Gibson theatres of Greenville.
Briefs are now due for filing in the involved
case brought by the Grand Center
Recreation of Grand Blanc, involving several
theatres in the important Flint area.'
This case was heard for two days in September,
and an award is expected to be filed
by February.
One other case is pending locally. It is
the only Detroit case on the docket, brought
by John Crane of the Priscilla, involving
several lower east side houses.
Kay Francis Comedy Set
YOUNGSTOWN — "Favorite Stranger," a
comedy starring Kay Francis, which had its
premiere in the Hanna Theatre, Cleveland,
Monday i27> has been booked for a single
performance at the Stambaugh Auditorium
here January 11.
was attacked by wild animals nearly 300
times, and has spent about 240 weeks of
his life in hospitals.
It all began when "Cap" Wilson, then
known by his family name of Edward F.
McEnaney, was 11 years old. He left the
security of his home to join the Bostock
show as a dishwasher. He joined the circus
because he loved animals, and in time he
was promoted from dishwasher to menagerie
attendant.
Wilson's first bcut with a "cat" happened
in 1897. It was during a parade in Oxford,
Ind., that one of the lions, frightened by a
horseback rider, took his anger out on Wilson.
Another time, a bear, which resented
being put through his training paces,
grabbed one of Wilson's arms and tore
great gashes in it. It took many weeks in
a hospital for him to recover from that
attack.
Another time, during a show at Coney
Island, a lion showed his anger at being
separated from his mate by jumping on
Wilson. He barely escaped with his life,
but long hospitalization was required to
effect a cure.
Wilson did not confine his animal experiences
to zoos and circuses. During his
51 years as a trainer, he learned how animals
behave, not only in captivity but also
in their jungle habitats. Twice he was a
member of expeditions into Africa and
India, where he assisted in the capture of
wild anmials he later was to train. He got
his title and stage name in 1911 and has
been known as "Captain Curley" ever since.
So while Mr. and Mrs. Patron and the
little Patrons get cold shivers down their
spines watching "Bring 'Em Back Alive"
and other adventure pictures, Wilson goes
on quietly tearing off stubs and depositing
them in the ticket box. Inwardly, however,
he is reliving his days of high adventure
and perhaps he's just a little bit sorry for
the patrons whose only knowledge of excitement
is what they see on the screen.
Theatre Xmas Giveaway
Saves a Family Home
SPRINGFIELD—Santa Claus was good to
Tom Bernard, an unemployed Springfield
workman, but things looked mighty dark
until he attended a matinee at one of the
Regent-State theatres. Tom couldn't meet a
payment on his home and was in danger
of losing it. He was thinking seriously of selling
his old model car to get the money. He
wanted to buy Christmas presents for his
family, but couldn't.
Just on a hunch he attended the matinee
and registered for a new 1949 Mercury. Two
days before Christmas the giveaway was held.
Tom won the car. He sold his old one and
made the payment on his home. The new
car was a swell Christmas present for himself
and his family. The car was given away
through a tie-in by the Regent-State Corp.,
with several -Quality Square" merchants.
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949 83

. . Jack
. . . Word
. . "Hamlet"
. . Tony
Warner
CLEVELAND
1948 ended quietly on Filmrow. Gone are
the days when the new year was celebrated
with whoopee during the whole holiday
week. With Christmas office parties
oyer, the exchange crews got back into their
groove without a single casualty. The only New
Year's celebration was the Variety Club party
with close to the limit of 150 people on deck
for the festivities, which included dancing
and dinner. Chief Barker I. J. Schmertz
and Mrs. Schmer'.z led the festivities.
P. L. Tanner ol Film Transit and Mrs.
Tanner returned from Philadelphia where
they spent Christmas with their son Lyle,
one of the officials ol the Saturday Evening
Post, and his family .
Lawrence officially
took over as United Artists salesman
in the Toledo territory. That was Jack's old
stamping ground before he resigned for a
fling on the we*'
,Ma\ Greenwald, general manager in charge
of the Elyria theatres in the days when they
were owned by Seymour Amster, will stage
a comeback in the industry as manager of
the new Richmond Theatre at Richmond
and Mayfield roads which now has a January
27 tentative opening date. Ostensibly a Community
circuit project, a lot of local people,
including Greenwald, have a finger in the
financial
pie.
Mrs. Jack Hynes, wife of the manager of
Shea's Paramount Theatre, Youngstown,
came to town to have her measurements
taken for that mink coat that Jack pulled
out of the Will Rogers hospital fund drive
comes from Akron that Ira Schaeffer,
75, engineer at Warners' Strand Theatre,
died December 29 of a heart attack. His wife
survives.
Mrs. Jim Levine, wife of the Paramount
exploiteer, returned for the New Years
celebration from New York. She drove east
with the Dave Kaufmans t Bros.i,
who spent the holidays with their daughter
and her husband . closed a tenweek
engagement at Loew's 1.250-seat Ohio
with tickets still in demand. The film played
to a record number of persons at roadshow
prices. "Henry V" with nine weeks to its
credit, played a house with half the seating
capacity of the Ohio . Stem of
Ohio Theatre Service Corp. ushered in the
Newr Year with a severe cold that kept him
away from his office most of the week.
Cleveland was weli represented at the Akron
Theatre Owners and Managers Ass'n
Christmas party last Monday night. Among
those who didn't shy from the late hours
party didn't begin until midnight—were Bill
Gross, Columbia city salesman, and wife;
Art Goldsmith. RKO: P. L. Tanner and Art
Marchand, Film Transit Co., and M. H.
Fritchie of Oliver Theatre Supply Co. They
report it was the best party the Akron theatre
group has ever pulled, thanks to its president,
Mrs. Helen Smith. Program included
dinner and dancing with a full orchestra, plus
speeches by top civic and political leaders.
Bob Snyder is celebrating his sixth year as
a member of the Cleveland film colony and
the second year of his and Manny Stutz'
operation of Realart Pictures exchange . . .
Dave Sandler, general manager of Theatrecraft
Mfg. Corp., maker of the new combination
in-car speaker-heaters for driveins,
was host to all of his employes at a
Christmas dinner held at the Carter hotel.
Although less than one year old. business
warranted distribution of bonus checks to
every member of the organization.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

Columbus Booth Men
Receive Pay Increase
COLUMBUS—A one-day walkout which
closed 32 local neighborhood theatres on New
Year's day ended when an agreement was
reached between owners and operators by
which operators in the A theatre bracket received
a 20 per cent increase and those in
the B bracket received a 10 per cent weekly
boost.
The new rates give the A group $70 weekly
and the B group $54. Former weekly rates
were $59.50 and $47, respectively. Operators
pointed out that the one-day walkout was
not a strike. The union members were in
meeting January 1 to consider owners' proposals.
The result was announced at midnight
January 1 by Robert Greer, president
of Local 386.
Spokesmen for the theatre owners said the
operators' first wage demands called for increases
ranging from 30 to 50 per cent. Downtown
theatres were not affected nor were
those in the Neth circuit and several independents.
These theatres are covered by other
contracts which do not expire for six months.
Permit for Wingo Ozoner
Granted Over Petition
MAYFIELD, KY.—A license to operate a
drive-in theatre was granted recently to Mrs.
Ruby Taylor following the denial of a petition
against the permit circulated by four
persons living in the vicinity of the proposed
theatre site, a mile and a half south of Wingo
on Highway 45.
The ruling was made by Roy Roberts, acting
county judge, after Judge Lewis Anderson
had disqualified himself. The petition, signed
by B. U. Kell, Thomas Bennett, Oscar Burge
and Vernon Bruce, stated the theatre might
constitute a nuisance and annoyance to neighbors
in the vicinity. Att'y O. H. Brooks, representing
the plaintiffs, stated he would appeal
the decision. Mrs. Wilson was represented
by Att'y L. R. Smith.
University 16mm Theatre
LEXINGTON, KY.—A campus motion picture
theatre for University of Kentucky students,
faculty and their families will be
opened in Memorial hall here January 15.
A 16mm arc projector will be installed for
the showings, which are planned for Friday
and Saturday nights.
George Walston Manager
LEXINGTON, KY.—George Walston jr.
has been named manager of the new Lyric
Theatre, 924-seat Negro house opened here
recently. John Twyman will be assistant
manager at the Lyric.
Fire Levels Ritz Theatre
COALDALE, PA—Fire leveled the Ritz
Theatre here recently despite a four-hour
fight by five fire companies.
To Drop Jerome Theatre
JEROME. PA—The Jerome Theatre here,
operated for a number of years by Charles
Szewczyk, Boswell exhibitor, will pass from
his management March 31.
Detroit Booth Man Sues to Regain
Job, Alleging Vassalage in Union
DETROIT—New type of industry litigation
was initiated here recently by Louis
G. Havens, until several weeks ago projectionist
at the Fine Arts Theatre, in
filing a case in Wayne county circuit court
against IATSE Local 199 and the owner of
the Fine Arts, Wade E. Allen, seeking specifically
to get his job back at the house
and to force the local to admit him to membership.
Havens also names as co-defendants
four union officers—Frank Kinsora,
president; Roger M. Kennedy, business agent;
Joseph Sullivan, vice-president, and Roy R.
Ruben, secretary.
Havens alleges that there is a "manpower
monopoly" in the local, and that he has
been discriminated against, having worked
in Detroit houses—he states he actually
worked in 190 local theatres at different
times since he came to Detroit in 1942. However,
he says that his application for membership
has never been accepted, and charges
that sons and relatives of union members,
who had been broken into projection since
he started in Detroit, have been in numerous
cases admitted to membership.
Outstanding in his complaint is the imputation
of a state of "vassalage" in which
he contends that operators like himself—
known in the trade as "permit men"—were
held by the attitude of union officials, whereby
their livelihood in their jobs here was
subject to "the whim of" these leaders.
Havens stated that he has been a projectionist
since 1930, and that he himself or-
PARTY FOR NEEDY KIDS—The
Cleveland Variety Club's party for needy
and underprivileged children got full endorsement
from the Cleveland Press as
the club treated some 200 youngsters to
a full course turkey dinner and gifts
including woolen cap and. mittens, toys
and a basket of food valued at S10 to take
home. Pictured above is Julius Lamm,
manager of the Uptown Theatre, as Santa
Claus. Just back of him is Bob Snyder,
Realart franchise owner and chairman in
charge of the party. I. J. Schmertz,
newly elected Variety Club chief barker,
is on the left while Capt. Arthur Roth,
head of the bureau of delinquency, is on
the right.
ganized the Allegan, Mich., Local No. 738 in
1940, becoming an IATSE member at that
time— the territory had, he said, been previously
unorganized. Two years later he
came to Detroit.
According to Havens, he, as typical of
other members of foreign locals, has worked
in the city area during the past few years,
and has lost his chance at better jobs in
his own local territory by being here. The
Allegan territory, specifically, would not offer
him as good a job as he would have had
had he continued to work there, and perhaps
no opening at all would be available,
he said.
The matter came to a head recently when
Havens protested the failure to accept him
as a member in a letter to the IATSE head
office, asking that the Detroit local take
action on his application.
According to Roger M. Kennedy, an IATSE
vice-president, his letter brought results, in
that the local voted on his application at
the regular December meeting and unanimously
rejected the application. Havens
charged that his membership card was then
"returned" to him. This point, confusing to
outsiders, is that the permit men are required
to deposit their own local membership
cards with the Detroit local while they
work here, and that this card was returned
to him, so that he still retains IA membership.
This action was taken, Kennedy
said, when Havens indicated his intention of
appealing to the courts, which he considered
to be contrary to the oath of obligation taken
at initiation, by which a new member agrees
to abide by the rules of the union.
Three further appeals sources were open
to Havens under IATSE procedure, and none
were taken, according to Kennedy: (li appeal
to the president; (2) appeal to the
executive board; appeal to the body of
the convention.
In connection with the allegations concerning
"sons and relatives," Kennedy pointed
out that of the big class of 47 new members
recently taken into full membership,
only seven were relatives of local members,
and each of these seven was, incidentally, a
World War II veteran. He indicated that,
while some of them had come into the business
since the period indicated by Havens,
their acceptance was definitely in line with
a national program of aiding veterans into
employment opportunities.
Havens lost his first round in court, when,
after Circuit Judge Frank B. Ferguson had
disqualified himself, Judge Thomas Maher
signed an order to show cause, but refused
to grant the temporary injunction which the
plaintiff had sought.
Somerset. Ky., Drive-In
Permit Is Turned Down
SOMERSET, KY.—County Judge C. I. Ross
has denied an application by Guthrie and
Edna Lowry and J. W. and Trudy Childers
of Dayton, Ohio, for a permit to operate a
drive-in on the west side of highway 27 here.
Objections to the permit were filed in a
petition signed by 35 residents of the area
who claimed it would constitute a traffic
hazard.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949
85

. . . Police
. . . Larry
. . Raymond
. . Gene
. . Tent
. . Walter
. .
. . Lack
. . Frank
. .
. . . Delegates
. . Jack
. . George
. . Theatremen
. . Walter
. . Miles
Review of 1948 News in
Columbus Area
COLUMBUS—Resume of 1948 news in Columbus
area.
January
J. Henry Davidson and K. R. Roberts of
Associated Theatres will erect a drive-in in
Fayette county near Washington Court
House . Lancaster was chosen for the
world premiere of "Green Grass of Wyoming,"
which was largely filmed at the Fairfield
county fairgrounds there . . . Mrs.
Beatrice Bayless Prosser, w-idow of the late
W. W. Prosser. longtime manager of old B. F.
Keith house, died in Fairfield, Conn. . . . E. J
Hiehle, Zanesville exhibitor, and his wife
were slightly injured in a motor accident .
Leo Burkhart installed a new sound system
in the Hippodrome, Crestline . . . Jack Needham,
salesman for 20th-Fox for the last 27
years, retired . . . Fred H. Seeliger. pioneer
local newsreel cameraman, died.
February
The Variety Club held the first of its oldfashioned
parties, the Hillbilly Jamboree and
Homecoming . 2 donated a house
trailer for a mobile dental clinic for city
school children . Compton, former
Loew's publicity manager here, was in
town after several years on the west coast
as studio publicity chief . . . Several neighborhoods
inaugurated low-priced family
nights . Quinn purchased the
Alhambra from Worthington Smith.
March
John B. Brobst, Loew's Ohio electrician,
was awarded 20-year service pin ... J. Real
Neth was confined to his home by illness . . .
Variety Club said it would take over sale
of first night tickets for the Skating Vanities
for benefit of Heart fund . . . Seventy-nine
Ohio cities expected to raise $2,000,000 via
the 3 per cent admissions tax . . . Robert
Little, Esquire manager, resigned to join
Hygienic Productions ... P. J. Wood was
recuperating in Florida from an illness . .
Lou Holleb leased the Imperial. Zanesville,
and planned to open it May 1.
April
Harry H. Young acquired the Colonial
Television Corp. franchise for Ohio, West
Virginia, Kentucky and southeastern Indiana.
Jack Needham was appointed sales
manager for the franchise holder with Gene
Hazelton, J. Milt Jacobs, George Anagnost
and Don C. Fosgate as salesmen and Don
Foster as engineer . . . Riverside and Eastside
drive-ins, operated by Frank Yassenoff and
Harold Schwartz, were the first open air
theatres to start the spring and summer
season . . . Harold Goodin, Loew's Ohio student
assistant, underwent an appendectomy
Chief Berry recommended
stricter curfew regulations for minors with
curfew hour advanced to 10 p. m. . . . First
stock company in 19 years opened at Hartman
for a ten-week season . . . Academy
s planned to open two new houses, the
Lane and Old Trail, soon . . . Jacob F. Luft,
71. longtime Variety Club treasurer and manager
of the Grand Theatre building, died
suddenly.
.May
Workmen dismantled the RKO Palace upright
which was damaged by March winds
Caplane won the RKO Stunt of
the Month award for his Frankenstein campaign
. Alexander is the new manager
of the State, Mount Sterling . . . The
world premiere of "Green Grass of Wyoming"
was held in Leo Kessel's Palace and Broad
at Lancaster, Ohio. May 25 . . . John Pennington
was named new manager of the
Majestic . of patronage caused the
closing of the Columbia stock company at the
Hartman after three weeks of a proposed tenweek
season . Yassenoff and Harold
Schwartz began building their third Franklin
county drive-in on Harrisburg pike . . . Mary
McGavran, theatre editor of the Ohio State
Journal, planned to wed Harold Koebel of the
Journal staff in the fall.
June
Kenneth C. Ray has joined Lou Holleb in
partnership, operating the Imperial, Zanesville
. . . Spencer S. Steenrod, pioneer Nelsonville
exhibitor, died . . . Castle, Williamsport.
was sold to Leslie Price, Columbus . . . Jack
Needham became temporary buyer and booker
for the Orpheum and Majestic, Nelsonville
. . . Village council of Mount Sterling proposed
a 3 per cent admissions tax . . . Larry
Caplane, manager of the Grand, will become
manager of the RKO Brandeis, Omaha. Neb..
July 20 . . . Ohio censor board reported first
quarter fees of $89,321.75.
July
George W. Cook, former president of the
Columbus Federation of Musicians, died .
Mrs. Lelia Stearn of the Southern announced
a summer bargain matinee rate of 10 cents
for children . . . New 1,000-seat theatre is
part of a projected million-dollar shopping
and amusement center planned for Olentangy
River road by C. S. Kennedy, Worthington
Toledo House Managers
List Top 1948 Draws
Toledo—The biggest money makers at
Toledo's four first run theatres during
1948, as reported by managers, were:
Abe Ludaeer, Loew's Valentine, reportefl
his best crowds came from "Easter Parade"
and "The Three Musketeers."
At the Paramount. Man-in Harris,
manager, said the best were "The Babe
Ruth Story," "When My Baby Smiles at
Me" and "Yellow Sky," the Christmas
attraction. Harris said that December 26
was the biggest Sunday at the house in
about a year and a half, and that December
24 was the biggest day before Christmas
he can remember.
The Princess had a money-maker in its
Christmas attraction, "The Paleface." The
previous biggest boxoffice magnet of the
year was "Sorry, Wrong Number," according
to Giles Kobb.
The Rivoli's top attraction for 1948 was
"Johnny Belinda," according to Howard
Feigley. The Warner film had a record
local run of five consecutive weeks, two
at the first run Rivoli and three at the
Pantheon. Another top-drawing attraction
ma "The Fuller Brush Man." It had
a four-week run here. "Life With Father,"
starring William Powell and Irene Dunne.
aba was a money-maker.
builder . . . New CCC Auto Theatre was
opened on Harrisburg road by Harold
Schwartz and Frank Yassenoff.
August
First units to be constructed in the $4,500.-
000 Veterans Memorial on the riverfront will
be the 9,500-seat convention hall and the
veterans meeting hall. Construction will start
in spring of 1949 . . . Harry Simons was
promoted to manager of RKO Grand, succeeding
Larry Caplane, upped to manager
of the RKO Brandeis. Omaha. Neb. . . . The
Old Trail, ninth theatre in the Academy
circuit, opened . were watching
with interest the tax battle between R. P.
Barthalow, city auditor, and Oscar Thomas,
head of ticket sales of Ohio State university's
athletic department. Barthalow says the city
admissions tax applies to football games in
Ohio Stadium.
Earl J. Graham, former manager of Walnut
Hills, Cincinnati, is new manager of the Majestic
. . . Harold Goodin, student assistant,
Loew's Ohio, resigned to enlist in the air
corps . . . Robert F. Alexander was named
manager of National Auto Theatre . . . Herbert
C. Kneller. manager of the Broad. Lancaster.
Ohio, died unexpectedly.
September
Opening of the Old Trail brought the
total of local theatres to 55, approximately
one seat for every nine persons . . . John
Young subbed for Mary McGavran. theatre
editor of the Journal, who married Harold
Koebel of the Journal staff September 11 . . .
Adult admission of the Champion was reduced
to 20 cents . . . Mrs. Flora Clagett was
named manager of the Broad at Lancaster
to ITO convention voted to
work for return of admissions taxes to the
state . Needham was named manager
of the local drive for funds for Will Rogers
Memorial hospital . . . The Alhambra was
acquired by Mrs. Lee Bennett . East
Main Street Drive-In. seventh auto theatre
here, opened with Irvin Dantzic as manager
. . . Construction of 600-car drive-in in
Findlay was announced by H. J. Knight.
October
The city's antinoise ordinance was declared
unconstitutional by Judge Wayne Fogle . . .
William Green, assistant manager of Loew's
Broad, resigned to enter Ohio State university
. . . Mrs. Catharine Ross Betry was reelected
president of the Columbus and
Franklin County Motion Picture Council . . .
Mrs. Peggy Ann Bennett has purchased the
Alhambra . Anagnost. former chief
barker of Variety Club, announced that he
was closing Greystone Skateland and planned
to devote all his time to his roller skate
business in Dayton, his home town.
November
Mrs. Lelia Stearn and Bernard Ginley of
the Southern joined the newly-formed Main
Street Merchants' Ass'n . Fellows,
onetime manager of the Alhambra and uncle
of Mrs. Ethel. Miles, died .
. . Walter Kessler
scored by getting the only appearance of the
football season of Coach Wesley Fesler, the
Ohio State team and the 120-piece band in
a homecoming rally held at the Ohio.
William Dean Linn was named assistant
manager at Loew's Broad.
January 8, 1949

. . Sticking
. . Sammy
. . Henry
LOUISVILLE
js a holiday treat for the kiddies, the Vogue
in St. Matthews, owned by William Rosenthal
Enterprises and managed by Ira Allen,
scheduled a free morning show . . . The first
run Rialto here gave a recording of "Buttons
and Bows" as sung by Bob Hope to the first
50 women wearing buttons and bows to the
opening of "The Paleface."
In a tiein with the local Besten & Langen
beauty salon, Loew's inserted in the salon's
newspaper advertisement a photograph of
Betty Garrett, captioned, "Words and Music,"
starting December 31 at Loew's . . . Charlie
Wells of the Falls City Theatre Equipment
Co. staff and a prominent figure among Louisville
bowling circles, plans to attend the
American Bowling Congress tournament in
Atlantic City, N. J., and the Melrose tournament
in Nashville. According to past figures,
Charlie has fared exceptionally well in the
competition.
In the current KATO-Gram, official bulletion
of the Kentucky Ass'n of Theatre Owners,
is an urgent appeal to exhibitors asking
them to participate actively in the March
of Dimes campaign January 14-31, inclusive.
At the time KATO announced its wholehearted
backing of Brotherhood week.
In town visiting the Row for the first time
in a good many weeks was M. H. Sparks
of the Strand Theatre, Edmonton. Other
visitors were Russell Phillips, Franklin,
Greensburg; F. X. Merkley, Rialto, Columbia;
Clark Bennett, Valley, Taylorsville: Bob
Enoch, State and Grand theatres, Elizabethtown;
Bob Harned, Empire, Sellersburg.
Ind.; E. L. Ornstein, Rialto, Marengo, Ind..
and Oscar Hopper, Arista, Lebanon.
The new year was ushered in with midnight
shows at all the downtown first run theatres
and late shows at the majority of the neighborhoods
. to the conventional
Thursday change of programs, the Rialto
brought in "The Paleface" on a single bill,
while the Strand had a double feature in
"Sealed Verdict" and "Isn't It Romantic?"
and the National had a stage show plus
"California Firebrand." Loew's held its change
until Friday when it opened with "Words
and Music." The Mary Anderson waited
until Saturday for its first 1949 attraction,
"One Sunday Afternoon." while the Scoop
opened the same day with "The Mozart
Story." "Mexican Hayride" and "Adventures
of Gallant Bess" were moved to the Brown
for an extended run following a week at the
Rialto.
"Oklahoma!" wound up its six-day repeat
visit at the Memorial auditorium . . . Bob
Hope is scheduled to appear in a show at
the Jefferson county armory here January
24 . . . New Strong projection lamps and
rectifiers have been installed in Bob Harned's
Empire Theatre, Sellersburg, Ind., by the
Falls City Equipment Co.
Charlie Wells of the Falls City Theatre
Equipment Co. staff here reports that his
brother Malcolm made his Broadway debut
recently in the Maxwell Anderson production,
"Anne of the Thousand Days." According
to Charlie. Malcolm appeared on the
stage with Rex Harrison as Henry VIII and
Joyce Redman as Anne Boleyn. Not so long
ago, Malcolm appeared in his first profes-
sional role, playing the "subway circuit" in
Sylvia Sidney's production of "Joan of Lor-
COLUMBUS
It was reported here that Mary Logue, 1943
Culbertson, New Albany, Ind., an employe
in Louisville of the American Theatre Corp.,
suffered serious injuries as the result of an
assault. According to police reports, she
was struck by a man on a street in New
Albany. A motive for the attack had not
been determined. She was taken to St. Edward's
hospital . . . Bill King is the new
manager of the Bonn Theatre, Bonnieville,
Ky.
In submitting his selections for the "ten
best pictures of the year." A. A. Daugherty.
cruic of the Louisville Times, batted .500.
His list included "Johnny Belinda," "I Remember
Mama," "Treasure of Sierra Madre,"
"The Naked City" and "Sitting Pretty" . . .
The University of Kentucky at Lexington
will operate its own motion picture theatre
for faculty and students in mid-January.
Film presentations were planned for Friday
and Saturday nights.
Theatre Is Family Affair
RUSSELLTOWN, PA.—Sam Ross, owner of
this city's only theatre, is making his house
a family operated affair. His 18-year-old
daughter Teresa is one of Pennsylvania's
youngest licensed motion picture projectionists.
Ross' son Richard, 12, aids as an usher
and ticket taker, with 15-year-old daughter
Rita running the concession booth. Mama
Ross greets the customers as cashier.
Audio-Visual Supply Firm
DETROIT — Audio-Visual Equipment &
Supplies Co. has been formed here by A. I.
"Arch" Marentette jr. to handle all types of
sound and projection equipment, covering
16mm as well as some 35mm equipment, particularly
for drive-ins. Marentette was with
RCA here for several years.
Bandit Escapes With $413
COLUMBUS—A lone bandit escaped with
$413 in a holdup in the Westmont office.
The bandit held a gun on James Yoder, manager,
and Vera Masdea, cashier, while he
took the money.
Piano Night Now!
NEW KENSINGTON. PA—Thursday night
last week was Baldwin Acrosonic Piano night
at
the Circle.
Excavate for Drive-in
ELIZABETHTOWN. KY—Excavation work
was begun recently here by Diecks Lumber
Co., contractors, for the new drive-in being
built three miles north of the city limits by
the Elizabethtown Amusement Co.
NATIONALLY ADVERTISED BRANDS CANDY
82c per 24—5c bars. Peanuts 70c. Gum—60c.
MINIMUM PREPAID SHIPMENTS 1.200 bars of any
manufacturer's products. Smaller shipments f.o.b. our
warehouse.
UNIVERSAL SOUND MOVIE CO.
Calhoun, Kentucky
We are distributors for Nationally Advertised brands.
Qonstruction has started on steel work for
the 595-foot antenna tower of WBNT-TV,
the Columbus Dispatch television station
which is expected to begin video programs
in early summer. The tower and studios will
be located on Olentangy River road at the
east end of the Twin Rivers golf course. Work
on the two-story brick studio and office
building will start as soon as weather permits.
Fine of $50 is provided for violations of the
city's new antinoise ordinance. Sound amplification
from a moving vehicle or a single
location is banned. The new ordinance replaces
the previous city law which was
declared unconstitutional by two municipal
judges.
Employes of the Academy theatres made
a donation to the Citizen Adopt-a-Family
Christmas fund in the name of Diane Yassenoff,
young daughter of Milton Yassenoff,
general manager of the Academy circuit . . .
Lou Costello sent $50 to the Adopt-a-Family
fund. Manager Carl Rogers of Loew's Broad
presented the check to Ed Kennedy, Citizen's
promotion manager.
Abe Bernstein, U-I exploitation representative,
was here to line up a campaign on
"You Gotta Stay Happy" .
Senber
was here in advance of Maurice Evans' appearance
at the Hartman in "Man and
Superman" . Kaye, in for a threeday
stage appearance at the Palace, renewed
many local friendships. Sammy attended
Ohio university at Athens and got his early
breaks in the band business at Valley Dale
ballroom here.
Oscar A. Doob, Loew's theatre executive,
stopped off in Columbus for a holiday visit
with Martin C. Burnett, Loew's Central division
manager.
House to Be Remodeled
BOWLING GREEN, KY—Remodeling of
the Princess Theatre here, operated by the
Crescent Amusement Co., is expected to be
started soon. The house will be enlarged and
a new marquee will be installed. J. P.
Masters is manager of the theatre.
Let Our Years of Experience Plan
and Build Your Theatre
VOGEL BUILDING COT
Liberty Theatre Bldg.
Wellsville, O. — Phone: 74
THOS. F. WALSTON

. . Seth
. . Dick
•
. . . Jack
. . Local
. . William
. . Ernest
. . Arvid
. . The
. .
DETROIT
rjave Flayer says he had to take that job
as assistant prosecutor in order to get up
mornings after years of keeping exhibitorshours
. . . Elgin Mason, former Detroit booker
back from Los Angeles, was a visitor
during the Christmas holidays . . . Clair
Townsends openhouse for friends at Eagle
Lion was a pleasant holiday memory •
Herman Cohen. Columbia salesman, headed
for Florida for the holidays Holtz
.
of the Century sent his own unique style
Christmas remembrance Kantor
.
was in town for the holidays from Lamarr,
Colo., coming the last thousand miles bytrain,
as his car got iced in out in Kansas.
Casper J. Bondy. who was doing projec-
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+ RCA SOUND SCREENS
* BRENKERT LAMPS
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* CENTURY GENERATORS
* KOLDRINK BARS
STAR POPCORN MACHINES
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DRIVE-IN THEATRES OUR
SPECIALTY
ERNIE FORBES
THEATRE SUPPLY
Film Bldg.. Detroit 1. Mich.
Days
Nights
WO 1-1122 WE 4-9080
WO 1-1123
tion work but is now on regular air force
duty, was also in town for the holidays .
Milton R. Combs, local representative of the
Atlas Chair & Equipment Co., is moving his
offices to 211 Moss Ave. in the north end
suburb of Highland Park . Warren
Carmers "and son'' sent a beautiful Christmas
card of the Three Wise Men from Los
Angeles . 199 cards were in the
usual formal style and excellent taste . . .
Eleanor Nevin sent season's greetings from
a rural cabin by a pine tree.
Wallace E. Cross jr. of the Cross machine
shop is the father of Nancy Joyce, his first,
born December 19 . . . John Yellich, operator
at the Stanley, is moving over on Lonyo
boulevard . Compton, formerly of
Romeo, is new manager of Howard R. Paul's
Yale Theatre at Yale, replacing Mrs. Nellie
Deemer.
Ed Long, the sign man, is spending the
winter holidays at Yosemite Lodge, Calif. . . .
Alfred Zimbalist was in town to help Alice
Gorham build the world's first plastic dinosaur.
Andrew Kleanthes, Steve Stamatakis and
Joseph Scooros are taking over the Reel bar
Zide, manager of Allied Film Exchange,
popped up with a "feature program,"
titled "It's a Girl," for the birth of Carol
Lillian Zide . Kantor is catching
up on the biography of Sophie Tucker, whom
he used to know.
his head . . .
Ben Robins, U-I manager, is recovering
after an operation for removal of a cyst from
Howard Sharpley, formerly
with General Theatre Service, is starting
independent booking for the Litchfield Theatre
at Litchfield, February 1.
Larry Shubnell. manager of Allied Theatre
Service, is back from Fort Wayne, where he
visited relatives . . . Helma Wetzel of Warners
has been fighting off the early stages
of a cold . . . Ray Kroning has closed the
Fife Lake Theatre at Fife Lake for the
winter .
Schulte's new house at
Richmond is slated to open soon.
Edward Ramsey Buried
DETROIT—Ed w.i id Ramsey, projectionist
for many years at the Times Square Theatre,
died recently at the age of 65. He had been
an active member of IATSE Local 199 here
for 25 years. Prior to that he operated an
independent film exchange at Lexington.
Ky.. and was a stasjehand in theatres there.
He is survived by his son Louis, projectionist
at the Cinema.
Industry Men Take Offices
DETROIT—David E. Flayer, theatrical
lawyer and former owner of the Amo Theatre,
has been elected as second vice-president
of the Cinema lodge of B'nai B'rith.
He succeeds Theodore Birnkrant. who recently
became president. Max Blumenthal,
owner of the film exchange projection studio,
has been named to the board of trustees,
replacing Flayer.
Indian Athlete for Role
The noted Indian ex-athlete. Jim Thorpe,
has been booked for the role of an assistant
coach in U-I's "Yes, Sir. That's My Baby."
'Frisco' Earthquake Scene
Realistic to Toledoan
TOLEDO — Charles McLaughlin, 80-yearold
chief electrician in Loew's Esquire, enjoyed
the showing of "San Francisco" at the
house recently, and watched the earthquake
sequence at practically every performance
Mac. dean of Toledo stagehands and a past
president of stagehands Local 24. says the
scenes depicting the quake are authentic. He
said back in the fall of 1905 he was in a
roadshow called "Lovers' Lane" as property
man and understudy to the leading man,
Harry Bates. The production moved into the
California Theatre on California street. San
Francisco, in April 1906. On the night of
April 17 the show closed and moved across
the bay for a two-day stand in Oakland. The
earthquake occurred early in the morning of
April 18.
McLaughlin was in Oakland and safe during
the quake, but returned to San Francisco
the next day to pick up a few things
that had been left behind in the theatre. He
found the California completely demolished.
Besides the Esquire, McLaughlin has
worked in the People's. Capitol, Vita-Temple,
Toledo, Loew's Valentine and Paramount
theatres.
TheatrpSign and Marquee Maintenance
/^^v Our Specialty
%LiHorstman

i
Cleveland
i CINCINNATI
1
. . have
Paleface' Rales 220
UDT Circuit Launches Ad Campaign
For Cincinnati High 7 Build Fan Interest in Films
— The popularity of Bob
(Hope, with the addition of Jane Russell in DETROIT—United Detroit Theatres Sun-
cast of "The Paleface," drew the largest day (2) launched a long-term institutional
f,he
trowds Christmas week, even exceeding the advertising campaign, consisting of short
business at the Albee Peter Lorre ap- where comments on motion pictures obtained from
jjeared on the stage in a presentation receiv- patrons run in all local papers three times
ng very favorable reviews. Two reissues, a week in two-inch boxes without advertiser
(•Last Days of Pompeii" and "She," at the signatures. The cost runs $200 weekly.
brand, released by RKO, also gave excellent The boxes are being run on the amuse-
1-esults. Next in line was "Mexican Hayride" ment pages over UDT's regular attraction
jit Keith's and "Rogues' Regiment" at the ads. The ads are designed to build up inter-
Mace. The two other downtown attractions est of theatregoers in motion pictures in genjvere
poorly attended. eral rather than in any specific film.
A er e S
plus stage The Patron comments were gathered in a
un tai.
The 6d Br 6ei
shew 150 contest conducted recently in UDT houses to
|
Irapitol—The Paleface (Para)- ..........220
discover how the average motion picture
|3rand—The Last Days of Pompeu (RKO); She ...
I (RKO). reissues 130 feels about pictures.
"The
.
IungU C H lim (c .:ni
'bo Earl J. Hudson, UDT president, said: "
d ,vk
Hogues' Regiment' (U-lj no results have amazed us and made us feel
The Gallant Blade (Col), 2nd d. t. wk bo
humble, to realize how much the picture fan
loves motion pictures. They reveal the most
Enjoys Boom popular reasons for picture attendance, and
On Christmas Day
we believe the results should be as important
Allen-The Gallant Blade (Col) 105
kipFodrome—The Decision of Christopher Blake
(WB) . 42
hio—Hamlet (U-I), 9th wk.. at $2.40 top 100
ilace—Blood on the Moon (RKO) 110
ate—The Paleface (Para) 135
Jtillman—Mexican Hayride (U-I), 2nd d. t. wk 85
Pittsburgh Business Off
"is Bad Weather Hits
PITTSBURGH — As anticipated, grosses
vere depressed at the downtown and neighjorhood
theatres. Offerings were not attracin
the Golden Triangle, weather was not
nviting, people were broke and busy elsewhere.
ulton—Moonrise (Rep) 40
arris—Live Today for Tomorrow (U-I) 50
enn-San Francisco (MGM); In the Navy (U-I),
retssues . 35
Hz—Hamlet (U-I). 7th wk., roadshow prices 60
enator—My Son. My Son (UA); International Lady
(UA). reissues
Stanley—Hollow
50
Triumph (EL), Olympic Games
of 1948 (EL) 60
Varnor-Ruthless (EL); Mickey (EL) SO
Detroit's Holiday Week
3ooms Gross Averages
DETROIT — Holiday week business was
jenerally above expectations, and consideribly
above averages of recent months, proriding
a welcome contrast to the preceding
•reek's lows.
Warns—The Countess of Monte Cristo (U-I) 100
no-Hamlet (U-I). 5th wk 125
Downtown— Hills of Home (MGM); Harpoon (SG).. 95
Unfaithfully Yours (20th-Fox), 2nd wk 110
dadison—Rogues' Regiment (U-I), Olympic Games
of 1948 (EL! 100
vtichigan—The Paleface (Para); Disaster (Para)... .150
" "
s-State—Fighter Squadron (WB). Isn't It Ro-
fan
F CLEVELAND — Practically all downtown to Hollywood as to ourselves as exhibitors,
theatres as well as neighborhood houses „ The motion picture industry regards Deblayed
to empty benches on Christmas eve.
troit as a -typical fan town.' It is a barometer
trhere were two exceptions, however; "The
raleface" jammed 'em into the State while —;
she Palace did fairly well with "Blood on the
Moon." Business bounced back Christmas Name 1949 Officers
night, so that the week's take right down the PITTSBURGH — Ladies Theatrical club
has named the following officers for 1949:
Mrs. Michael N. Shapiro, president; Mrs. Ben
Steerman and Mrs. David Kimelman, assistants;
Mrs. Arthur H. Levy, corresponding
secretary: Mrs. David Hadburg, recording
secretary; Mrs. Louis Hamburg jr., treasurer;
Mrs. Nat Reisberg, auditor; Mrs. Perry
Nathan, Mrs. Peter Dana and Mrs. Maurice
Spitalny,
directors.
Chinese Actor as Japanese
Beal Wong, Chinese actor, will portray a
Japanese naval attache in the Warner picture,
"Task Force."
line was pretty good. It was too early to esti-
Inate the week's business on "The Red Shoes"
lind "Paisan," both Christmas day openings.
I'Red Shoes," according to the Esquire Theatre
management, opened to a soldout house at
IS2.40 top. "Paisan" also was building. Holiday
Iweather was cold with only slight snow flurfor
motion picture entertainment as well as
a barometer for other industries. In our contest
we sought to discover just why average
patrons in Detroit go so often and why motion
pictures are theft- favorite diversion.
"We found out. In hundreds of answers,
we discovered that Mr. Average Detroiter
takes his lady to the movies once or twice
a week. They go to escape from routine, to
get outside their homes and for a few hours
to live lives other than their own, to be
spectators to experience, problems and joys
that are rarely, if ever, a part of their worka-day
lives.
"The things from which they want to escape
are many and varied. The things they find
include travel in a theatre chair to far places,
to view exotic sights and hear great melodies,
to find forgetfulness in excellent performances
and unusual characterizations.
The opinion most frequently stated in hundreds
of replies was personal interest in the
lives and experience of the characters they
see portrayed on the screen. This means that
people continue to find their greatest interest
in
other people."
No Television Tax Yet
PITTSBURGH—City solicitor
Anne X. Alpern
has ruled that television exhibitions fcr
usAIRco
liquor and food customers will not lay the
owner open to an amusement tax. Miss Alpern
stated: "In the present stage of the development
of television, customers going into
restaurants or taverns will not be charged
an additional amount because of the added
attraction of a television set. For this reason
we believe that no amusement tax should
be charged to those restaurants and taverns
which have television sets." The Pennsylvania
supreme court recently ruled that television
exhibitions constitute entertainment
and are subject to license.
Comfort Cooling Units
for evaporative, refrigeration or cold water installations.
Consult us now .
equipment ordered in
your plans made and
time.
RING0LD THEATRE EQUIPMENT COMPANY
106 Michigan St., N. W.,
Telephone GLendale 4-8852
24-Hour Projection and Sound Service
Grand Rapids 2, Michigan
Nights and Sundays 3-2413
January 8. 1949 ME 89

. . . Penn.
. .
Ann
. . . Louis
. . Kathryn
. . Fulton
.
. . Reports
. . Jack
. . Recent
. . Free
. . The
. Tex
. . Bernard
. . The
. .
PITTSBURGH
a 4 mill personal property tax, a 10 per cent
amusement tax and a $3 per capita tax .
Altoona city council adopted a 1 per cent income
tax which will be effective February 1
Uniontown. awarded two bikes at
show . .
M. A. Silver. Warner circuit zone manager.
has Issued 1949 pass books
exhibitor, is opening
Latella. former local area
a Baldwin piano agency at New
Kens-
Ingtoll . Nist. is engaged to
Charles Mason, both of the Warner circuit
office.
Lois Eggert of the Columbia exchange is
engaged to Tony Liotta of Springdale. Pa.
Bales of RKO was visited by her
brother Bill, and his actress wife Jo Van
Fleet . . Rhea Aaronson. formerly with
MGM, joined the Eagle Lion office staff .
Herb Berman. Columbia salesman, is back
on the job after vacationing in New York
Michael of the Liberty, southside.
underwent an operation recently.
Holiday greetings were received from Bernard
H. Buchheit. James O'Keefe. John J.
Maloney. George P. Comuntzis. George H.
Sallows. William Scott. Mr. and Mrs. William
Satori. Paul Scranage and family. Ray Allison.
Harry E. Reift. Mr and Mrs. E. M.
Stuve, Eddie Quillan, Variety Club. Mathilda
Kiel. Lee Conrad, Mr. and Mrs. James H.
Alexander. Walt Disney, Clara and Ben
Shlyen, Jesse Shlyen, Mr. and Mrs. Newt
Williams. Army and Navy Legion of Valor,
Roy Rogers. Louis E. Hanna, Gene Kellv.
Dottie, Russ and Li'l Davey Zebra. Fred J.
Herrington, Carolyn Lee, Lewis V Hepinger.
Warren and Evelyn Copp. Jim, Byrnece &
Jo Anne Vazzana, Rudolph Navari, Charles
Dale & Chuckie Warner. Atlas Theatre Supulv
Michael Manos, Allied MPTO of W. Pa..
the Kihchel family. Dorothy Rogers, Bob
Munn, Jim Velde. National Theatre Supply.
Irving Frankel. Andy Battistcn. Bertha and
Gordon Gibson. Acme Distributing Co., and
Frank -Bud'' Thomas.
MGBTs office party as well as the MGM
Pep club's Christmas party honored Cather-
D. "Dinty" Moore
Sam Fineberg
1705 Blvd. of the Allies
PITTSBURGH 19, PA.
Phone EXpress 0777
for several days.
.
.
.
Mr. and Mrs. J. P. J. Kelly and daughter
Louise were at the MGM screening room to
preview son and brother Gene in "Words
and Music" Fontaine, Paramount
shipper, is recuperating from an operation
. . Starlite open airer at Uniontown continues
in operation each night, offering two
shows from Uniontown are
that another drive-in will be opened there
early next spring.
New York critics gave flattering notices to
"Lend an Ear," the Charles Gaynor revue
which originally was written and produced
here at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. Bill Eythe,
who began his career with the local civic
theatre, produced and is starred in the New
York hit . . . "Construction Ahead," a sound
film which was produced jointly by the Pennsylvania
highway department and Pennsylvania
State college and which depicts the
building of the largest road system in the
country, was released January 1.
Local newspapers announced that rates for
amusement display advertising would be increased
January 1 . . . Charles R. Blatt, circuit
exhibitor, was elected chairman of the
state highway safety committee of Somerset
county at a recent meeting ... All downtown
first run theatres increased admission
price scales December 24. and several neighborhood
houses also advanced their tariffs
accordingly.
.
.
The Manor in Hollidaysburg featured the
WJSW jamboree door prizes at
the Penn in New Castle have been contributed
by local merchants and have included bicycle,
dish gardens, fluorescent lamps, cedar chest,
Kiddies attending the Saturday
etc. .
Giant
.
Screen party at the Circle in New
Kensington were told it was the biggest of
such shows in Pennsylvania. Ten big gifts
and a free pony ride were offered to every
kiddy in attendance.
Several drive-ins returned to newsprint to
extend holiday greetings to friends and patrons.
The Reynolds in Mercer county used
a 32-inch display and the Hickory at Sharon
issued an 8-inch advertisement . new
Manos In Monessen staged its initial cartoon
carnival recently candy bars
were given to kiddies attending a Penguin
party at the New Fairmont in Fairmont.
W. Va.
Fabian's Embassy at Johnstown presents a
midnight show every Friday .
Marshall
and his Palomino horse appeared on
the stage of the Logan in Altoona . . . Grand
at Monessen has reduced prices ... A four-
reel feature was stolen recently from the
Tayman \V. Cameron has been named general
vestibule of Screen Guild . Shea The-
ine Lockhart, secretary to John J. Maloney.
central division manager, who celebrated her
manager of television station WICU,
atre Corp. is presenting the new Kay Fran-
The Dattola brothers Elmer jr. and 28th anniversary with Leo the Lion She
has been named president of the MGM Pep
cis stage show, "Favorite Stranger," at the
Stambaugh Auditorium in Youngstown. Ohio,
Joe, former Springdale exhibitors now operating
club, and Meercy Braff is new vice-president; January 11. Shea formerly offered such attractions
the Ches-A-Rena at Cheswick. will Rose Marie Quinn is secretary and Wahneta
offer the valley big-time basketball starting
for a quarter-of-a-century at the
January 12. Seating capacity of the big
Max L. Meyer, Columbia
Park Theatre there.
Gardner is treasurer . . .
Gabe Rubin's Art Cinema
auditor, was on duty at the local
arena is 3.500 . . .
has a record breaker in the Italian film. branch.
Bob Hope and his radio company will appear
here at The Gardens January 25 "Paisan." acclaimed by the National Board
. . .
of Review and the New York critics. Seven Leo Isaacs, Alexander Theatre Supply Elks Lodge at Tarentum treated 2,000 children
shows each day are being given at the Liberty
salesman formerly with Columbia, is very ill at Warners' Harris, Palace and Peoples
Avenue house . has installed
William H. Fox, associated with the four the-
. . Alice Murawski is resigning duties at
an Admiral television set in the lobby.
. . .
Eagle Lion to be married January 8
Andy Battiston's North Euclid avenue home
sprained an ankle . . .
Mrs. W. A. V. Mack, wife of the National
Bradford city council is considering recommendations
was entered and a purse containing $537 was Screen sales representative, is reported to be
for repeal of the 1948 tax schedule, stolen . . Actress Terry Moore was here improving after a long
illness.
»
Gertrude Hungerman and Peter C. Quiter,
both associated with U-I for many years, are
engaged . . . Bert M. Steam, Co-Op head
and film producer, was in Los Angeles for
several days . . . Bill Brooks. Paramount
salesman, and family went to Cleveland . . .
Committees for the local Allied convention
attended a luncheon-meeting at the Villa
Catalano recently . . . Dora Steinberg, formerly
of Filmrow, visited here from Los
Angeles . . . Pete DeFazio, former Warner
salesman here and now Baltimore representative
for the company, spent the holidays
Fred J. Herrington, local Allied secretary,
addressed the recent east Pittsburgh Rotary
luncheon . . . Joe Bennett, former vaudevillian,
returned to his home in Atlanta after
visiting here with his son Vince Aldert, manager
of Loew's Ritz . . . Jack Fontaine, Paramount
head shipper, recuperated from a recent
operation and will resume duties at the
exchange within the next few days.
Ed Kelley, who has been confined to his
home for three years after 30 years in the
film industry here, in a letter extends happy
and prosperous new year's greetings to all his
friends . Randall has resigned
booking duties at RKO and is entering the
ladies ready-to-wear field here . . . Mr. and
Mrs. George Tice vacationed in New York
during the holidays. He was back at his Columbia
sales office this week, working on
"My Drive." which honors Art Levy, branch
manager ... A son was born in Mercy hospital
here to Mr. and Mrs. John D. Walsh.
Papa is manager of the Fulton.
Brownsville, Pa., Strand
To Close for Remodeling
BROWNSVILLE. PA.—The Strand will
close January 12 for an extensive remodeling
program which is expected to take about six
months. Laskey Bros., Inc., owner-operator
of the theatre, will install a new and higher
roof, enlarge the auditorium, install all new
seats, equipments, fixtures and concrete floor,
add a lounge and ladies' restroom in the basement,
a new front and marquee and
stall heating and cooling plants.
Purchases Half Interest
LEBANON, KY.—Mrs. Evelyn B. Hamilton
of Loretto has purchased a half interest in
the Arista Theatre here from O. D. Hopper.
BOXOFFICE

. . . Flora
. . David
. . Jack
. . Steve
. . The
. . Michael
. . Children
. .
. .
SU
Runaway Truck Smashes
Marquee in Harrodsburg
HARRODSBURG, KY.-A runaway 22-ton
fruit truck virtually demolished the marquee
of the Harrod Theatre here recently when
it crashed into the neo-lighted metal canopy
after breaking off a utility pole. Damage
was estimated at $5,000 by owner Willard
Gabhart.
David Bishop, Cincinnati, driver of the
truck, told Police Chief James Sharp that
air brakes on the truck seemingly had failed
after he parked it opposite a restaurant in
the block and left to get some coffee. Bishop
was en route to Huntington, W. Va., with a
load of oranges. He drives for Fre'd Cawdill
of Huntington.
TOLEDO
The Toledo Variety Club met January 3,
with Harold Hertzfeld, local Oldsmobile
dealer, as host . Nederlander, who
operates the Town Hall from his office in
Bob Hope will come to the Sports arena
January 29, with Les Brown's orchestra and
other notables . Carson and a revue
have been booked for the Paramount Theatre
stage for three days beginning January
21. In the Carson troupe are Marion Hutton.
Betty's singing sister, and Robert Alda, film
player who was seen as George Gershwin in
"Rhapsody in Blue" . Toth, former
manager of Loew's Esquire, who operated a
drive-in theatre near Jackson, Mich., now is
at
Hialeah, Fla.
More than 1,500 children from orphanages,
homes and state schools in the Toledo area
were guests at a holiday show December 29
at the Paramount Theatre sponsored by the
Toledo Junior Chamber of Commerce. The
show was the fifth sponsored by the Jaycees,
and was financed by funds derived from two
special trains for football fans last fall. The
kiddies received gifts, saw films and a stage
show directed by Paul Spor with more than
50 entertainers, and joined in community
singing.
Milt Tarloff, manager of the Toledo Home
and Travel Show, to be held in the Civic
auditorium February 19-27, has awarded the
contract for the decorations for the event
Ward Hineline, who brought the
recent performance of "Romeo and Juliet"
to Toledo, will bring Paul Draper and Larry
Adler, dance and harmonica team, to the
State Theatre on January 14, instead of
February 2 as originally scheduled. Mrs.
Hineline also is trying to bring "The Barber
of Seville" to the Paramount Theatre
later this season.
New Sound at Latino
DETROIT — According to J. I. Mather,
branch manager for Altec Service Corp., a
Simplex E-8 sound system has been installed
in the Latino Theatre, Saginaw, Mich
SPRINGFIELD
theatre to ballyhoo the twin-bill showings of
"Eagle Squadron" and "Give Us Wings" .
City buses now cany large signs on the out-
£*us Sun, nationally known showman who side of the vehicles advertising the current
operates the Sun Booking Agency with film at the Regent.
offices in principal cities throughout the
U.S.. was the guest of honor at the Regent-
Kay Francis in Youngstown
State Corp. Christmas party in the Hotel
Shawnee. The party was for all company YOUNGSTOWN—Kay Francis will appear
in "Favorite Stranger" at the Stambaugh
managers and office employes. Sun gave
auditorium here January 11, then move to
the Colonial in Akron for a performance on
a short talk along with Phil Chakeres, president
of the Chakeres Theatres, Inc., and
Mike Chakeres, city manager of the Regent-
State Corp. David Sawyer, publicity director
for Regent-State, acted as master of ceremonies.
Woody Owens, manager of the Majestic,
recently held an all-circus show. The feature
film was entitled "Under the Big Top,"
while all shorts pertained to circus life.
Woody set up a circus lobby display prior
to the event. Only one showing was given.
Woody reported advance ticket sales "filled
the house" two days before the event.
Mr. and Mrs. Ray Frisz of the Regent-
the Shubert Lafayette Theatre in Detroit,
State Corp. spent the holidays with relatives
was here preparing for "Favorite Stranger,"
H.
in Terre Haute
Chakeres, David Sawyer and Phil Chakeres,
starring Kay Francis, to play at Town Hall
January 13-15. He said that Judith Anderson
Theatres, Inc.,
in "Medea," Paul Kelly in "Command
president of the Chakeres
attended the Warner Bros, zone meeting in
Decision." and "Born Yesterday" will play Cleveland. Janis Paige and her husband flew
here before spring.
Cleveland from Hollywood to be guests at
to
the, event.
An arrangement has been made by
Michael H. Chakeres with radio station WLW
of Cincinnati for the State to be in on the
world premiere of Walt Disney's latest film,
"So Dear to My Heart" . filled
the Fairbanks the day before Christmas as
the theatre and radio station WWSO presented
a free show for the kids. The only
admission charge was an old toy or a can of
food. Harding Lemon, manager of the theatre,
said two truckloads of food and toys
were collected for the city's needy children
These were distributed Christmas day. Gene
Conrad, popular WWSO announcer, acted as
Santa Claus. Stagehands and operators donated
their services for the event.
Joan Beck of the Chakeres Theatres, Inc.,
office staff is engaged to Richard Mc-
Clure . five Regent- State Corp.
Springfield theatres had capacity houses at
special New Year's eve showings . . . Tom
Chakeres returned as assistant manager of
the State after relieving Dick Parsons as
manager of the Grand in Frankfort, Ky., for
two weeks. Dick was honeymooning with his
new bride, the former Dorothy Sharp, his
cashier.
Harry Elliott, manager of the Ohio, has
started Saturday matinee cartoon shows.-
This is in addition to the Majestic's Saturday
morning kiddy show ... All Chakeres Theatres,
Inc., offices were closed for the funeral
of Patrick Collins, father of Frank Collins,
general manager of the corporation .
L. F. Weinsz, contact manager for the Regent-State
Corp., and John Huffman, manager
of the Regent, are back on the job
after having been ill with influenza over the
holidays.
"Woody" Owens, manager of
the Majestic.
set up a wrecked airplane in front of his
the 12th. The local Playhouse will put "John
Loves Mary" on the boards beginning January
12 for 12 performances under the direction
of Arthur Sircom.
Santa at Kent Theatre
ARNOLD, PA.—Santa Claus was at the
free kiddies show at the Kent where gifts
included bike, camera, scooter, doll layette,
cooking outfit, etc. A special feature of the
Kent entertainment was free bus service.
Audience Game Started
WHEELING, W. VA. — A new audience
game, announced as legal, Strike It Rich, was
started January 1 at the State.
Embassy Offers Cartoons
JOHNSTOWN, PA.—Every day last week
the Embassy offered an extra hour of cartoons,
being presented from noon to 1 o'clock.
To Produce 'Big Gun'
Alex Gottlieb will produce "The Big Gun"
for Columbia.
Be Qi*d
with the
"Bed"
in
THEATRE
DRIVE-IN
• EQUIPMENT
• SERVICE
• ENGINEERING
THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO.
Al Boudouris, manager
TOLEDO, OHIO
109 Michigan — AD. 8107
CLEVELAND, OHIO
921 Guardian Bldg
,
4680
BOXOFFICE January 1949

. . The
. . Harry
L
Dayion Video Station
To Air Tests Jan. 15
SPRINGFIELD—Local television fans,
long plagued with poor video reception because
of too distant stations, learned recently
that Dayton's new television station,
WHIO-TV. will start broadcasting test patterns
January 15.
Assigned to channel 13. WHIO-TV will
have effective coverage over a radius of 50
miles. This city is 25 miles from Dayton.
A limited program schedule will be started
February 8, when the station will carry
Golden Gloves matches. WHIO-TV will be
affiliated with the Columbia Broadcasting
System and the American Broadcasting Co.
Network programs will be presented from
films until the American Telephone and Telegraph
Co. can provide connection lines. The
photographic department of WHIO-TV has
been recording events of special interest on
film to be used when the station starts
operation.
Star-Lite Builds Drive-In
Near Punxsutawney, Pa.
PUNXSUTAWNEY, PA.— A new 450-car
drive-in under construction here for
is
Star-Lite, Inc.. and will be ready for opening
early in the spring. Construction site is
a 33-acre plot one-quarter mile northwest
of the city limits on the Punxsutawney-
Brookville road. A 50-foot screen tower will
be erected and 40.000 yards of dirt will be
excavated.
Greek Sound Film Shown
DETROIT — Detroit saw its first Greek
Service Workers Win Pay Hike
PITTSBURGH—Service workers and janitors
in the Warner, Loew's and the Nixon
have been granted a ten-cent hourly wage
increase retroactive to September 1, the AFL
Building Service Employes Local 29 announced.
Under a two-year contract, an
additional five cents will be granted next
September 1. The contract also provides for
vacation adjustments.
Theatre Has 38 th Birthday
JEANNETTE. PA.—Thirty-eighth anniif
the Princess was a special event
December 10 when each patron received a
piece of the theatre birthday cake. The
Princess is owned and operated by Mrs. Oliver
A. Kihchel and her sons Burt and Oliver
jr.
Contest Exploits 'Squadron'
M- KEESPORT. PA.—Prizes were awarded
from the stage of the Memorial to builders of
the best model airplanes. The contest was
held in conjunction with the exhibition of
"Fighter Squadron."
92
Son's Illness Dims Holiday
For Youngstown Manager
Youngstown — Prospects indicated a
very sad holiday season for Frank Savage,
manager of the Warner Theatre here,
and his family, when the youngest member
of the family, 3-year-old Bobby,
came down with spinal meningitis just
four days before Christmas.
For four days the youngster was unconscious
and his parents forgot all
about Christmas. But on Christmas
morning they learned the best presents
don't come in stockings. Bobby regained
consciousness and now he's a lot better.
Fire Damages Theatre
HUNTINGTON, W. VA.—One hundred and
fifty patrons filed out of the Mecca Theatre
in Guyandotte when film was ignited in a
projection machine. No one was injured.
Damage to booth equipment amounted to
several thousand dollars and two reels of
film were destroyed.
'Pagliacci' for New Year's
AKRON—The Liberty presented the Italian
film. "Pagliacci." December 30 through January
1. "The Paleface" was doing terrific
business at Loew's. Monday was bigger
than the usual Saturday. All four downtown
shows presented midnight shows on New
Year's
eve.
Saturday Circus Aired
FAIRMONT, W. VA.—Saturday Circus presented
at the Fairmont at 9 a. m., was started
as a means of taking children off of the
streets and offering clean entertainment at
talking picture at the Art Theatre recently. a time when many mothers like to shop or
The film. "Photis Tis Kardis," is currently catch up on household duties. WWW broadcasts
running at a New York house and is said to
be the first sound film imported from Greece.
Louis B. Goodman runs the theatre, which
a half-hour stage program and parents
not attending the show may hear their youngsters
over the radio. Screen program includes
normally alternates between German and
cartoons and a western feature.
Italian films.
Dead End Kids Reissues
CLEVELAND—Bernie Rubin of Imperial
Pictures, who recently acquired three former
Charles Laughton hits for rerelease in the
Cleveland area, says he also will distribute
six Dead End Kids package shows and an
action picture in color titled "Stallion Canyon."
and "Arizona Thoroughbred." remade
in
color.
Merchants Assist Holiday Treat
BRADFORD. PA.—Eight merchants joined
with the Journal in presenting the annual
free Christmas show for kiddies at Dipson's
Bradford the morning of December 24. Stage
and screen show was topped by a visit from
Santa Claus. who had ice cream, candy, toys
and games for all the children.
Vernon Renamed Sheftic
BOSWELL, PA.—Charles Szewczyk. local
businessman and proprietor of the Mary Lee
and Vernon theatres, has changed the name
of the Vernon to the Sheftic. which repreents
the pronounciation of his name.
Szewczyk has served several terms each as
councilman and school board director.
Rededication Fete
Staged at Enright
PITTSBURGH— A service of re-dedication
was held recently a: Warners' Enright Theatre
in East Liberty, named after Thomas
Enright. first soldier killed in World War I
There was a special showing of "Make Way
for Youth" and a panel discussion on the
theme. "Know Your Neighbor." National
Conference of Christians and Jews cooperated
with Phil Katz. Enright manager, in the
service.
James H. Esser Buried
PITTSBURGH—James H. Esser, a founder
of Esser Bros., theatrical costumers for 55
years, died recently in his home here. He
had been prominent in musical circles for
many years but ill health caused his retirement
several months ago. He is survived by
three sons, Joseph H.. Carl H. and Edward
A.; two brothers, William J. and Anthony H.
Esser and six grandsons.
QIN CI N N AT I
^Jilton H. Gurian, former salesman for Monogram,
has been appointed Cincinnati
manager by George West, who recently took
over the franchise from William Onie. West
is making his headquarters here. Gurian has
been connected with Monogram the last ten
years . . . The Schine circuit instituted a new
policy January 6 at the Ben Ali Theatre.
Lexington. Ky. The theatre is playing vaudeville
Thursdays through Saturdays, and films
Sundays through Wednesdays.
Allan Moritz, area chairman of the Will
Rogers Memorial fund drive, stated that the
drawing for the prizes will be held February
21 at the Variety Club . Hilling has
taken over the Ludlow Theatre. Ludlow. Ky..
from Louis Wiethe. Hilling will handle all
details of operation.
William Thalheimer of the A&M Theatrical
Corp.. Logan. W. Vt.. will be married late
this month to Miss Joan Sher of New York
City. The -couple will go to South America for
their honeymoon, after which they will live
in Logan . engagement of Dick Breslin.
booker for Eagle Lion, and Mary McGeren
stenographer at U-I. has been announced.
Visitors on Filmrow included Lester Rosenfeld.
who recently opened the Hi-Lawn Theatre.
St. Albans. W. Va., and Albert Sugarman
and Lee J. Hofheimer. Columbus, Ohio . . .
Rube Jacter and George Josephs of the Columbia
home office. New York, conferred with
Allan Moritz. branch manager. Sam Galanty.
district manager at Columbus, accompanied
Jacter and Josephs here . . . Rose
Nordman, assistant cashier at Columbia, resigned
December 31 to devote her time to being
a housewife. Her husband is an employe
of the Midwest Theatre Supply Co.
Ruth Becker, office manager's secretary at
RKO. resigned December 31. She has been
replaced by Helen Cole, former booker's stenographer.
Leola Matthew now is booker's
stenographer at the RKO branch . . . Lloyd
Krause. RKO salesman at Columbus, flew to
New York to attend the wedding of his sister
January 1.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

i
44 THEATRES GO TO PINANSKI,
56 TO MULLIN-MANAGED UNIT
18 Years of Partnership
Ended by New England
Theatremen
BOSTON—The Paramount-affiliated M&P
Theatre Corp. went out of existence this
week as this largest
circuit of New England
theatres was split
two ways into circuits
to be known as the
New England The-
| atres Inc., and the
American Theatre
Corp.
The splitup of the
huge chain saw the
severance of 18 years
Martin J. Mullin of business connection
by Martin J. Mullin and Samuel Pinanski,
partners in the M&P circuit. In the deal,
Mullin remains with Paramount as president
of the Paramount subsidiary. New England
Theatres. Inc., while Pinanski becomes
president and principal stockholder in the
newly formed American Theatre Corp., which
takes over Paramount's interest in the New
England Theatre Operating Corp., which goes
out of existence. Netoco had no interest in
the New England Theatres, Inc., of which
Mullin is president. Each chain will operate
independently.
Both Mullin and Pinanski said they regretted
the breakup and spoke of their personnel
and staff workers,
all of whom have
been placed with one
or the other corporation
in a sincere effort
to retain every member
of the force. Both
men said that the setup
of theatre managers
in their respective
organizations
would remain unchanged.
Pinanski, in speaking
of his newly Samuel Pinanski
formed American Theatre Corp., said, "This
is a typically New England-owned and New
England-managed company. We are taking
over a six-story building on Washington
street and all our departments will work together,
bookers, buyers, exploitation, executive
offices and district managers" headquarters."
In the circuit splitup Pinanski will, head
a chain of 44 houses while the New England
Theatres chain, headed by Mullin, will consist
of 56 situations.
Flagship of the American Theatre organization
is the Washington street Olympic,
managed by Harry Goldberg. This house has
been undergoing vast Improvements in preparation
for its entrance into the first run
field. It will open February 5 with the New
England premiere of "He Walked by Night."
At that time the name of the theatre will be
changed to the Pilgrim. The house has been
800 Children at Lenox in Hartford
March Out in Matinee Fire Drill
HARTFORD—For the first time in the
history of metropolitan Hartford exhibition,
a fire drill was held for 800 children
attending a Saturday matinee performance
at the Hartford Theatre circuit's
Lenox. The drill was suggested by
members of the Vine street and Northwest-Jones
Parent-Teacher councils,
which sponsor the matinee performances
at the Lenox.
Deputy Fire Chief Thomas F. Lee said
that such a drill would be valuable in
teaching panic control. "We want the
children to be mindful of how to act in
cases of emergency," he said. "A number
of other theatre managers are enthusi-
equipped with new front lobbies, foyers, public
areas and pushback seats. The air conditioning
unit has been perfected and the
escalator, running from the front lobby to the
first balcony, is being reconditioned in time
for the gala opening.
The New England Theatres, Inc., will retain
headquarters at 60 Scollay Square, maintaining
the same space occupied by the M&P
Corp. The Metropolitan, largest New England
house, seating 4,300, the Paramount and
the Fenway will continue to be first run
Boston houses.
Officers of the American Theatres Corp.
and those of the owning and operating company,
known as Pilgrim Theatre Corp., are:
Samuel Pinanski, president; Edward S. Canter,
executive assistant and treasurer, and
Robert I. Foster, controller. Other officers:
Francis W. McManus, James J. Dempsey.
Harry I. Wasserman. district managers.
Paul Levi, advertising and publicity.
Henry Schwartzberg, film buyer, assisted
by Tom Fermoyle.
Sam Feinstein, booker.
Leo Levenson, in charge of candy concessions
in the theatres.
Officers in New England Theatres, Inc.,:
.
Martin J. Mullin, president.
and gen-
Edward A. Cuddy, vice-president
eral manager.
Marlon E. Coles, treasurer.
Chester L. Stoddard, film buying and booking.
Hubert W. Glidden, secretary.
Harry Browning, advertising and publicity.
Robert M. Sternberg. Hyman Fine, Ben
Rosenberg, John Carroll, Jack Carroll, field
representatives.
The splitup of theatres follows:
NEW ENGLAND THEATRES, INC.
Mullin-managed>
astic about the idea. We may run four
or five drills in the next few weeks."
The drill was arranged for 4 p. m. The
house lights were first turned on, with
Lee then talking briefly to the children,
outlining just what to do and pointing
out the exits.
"I wish to congratulate both PTAs for
the fine cooperation they have shown
helping to organize this drill," the fire
official said after the drill. The PTA
handled the promotion of the drill in conjunction
with Mrs. Kate Treske, manager
of the Hartford Theatre circuit
house.
MASSACHUSETTS
Boston—Metropolitan, Paramount. Fenway,
Scollay.
Allston—Capitol.
Brockton—Brockton.
Cambridge—Central Square.
Chelsea—Broadway, Olympic.
Dorchester—Codman, Fields, Strand, Uphams.
Gloucester—North Shore, Union Hill.
Haverhill—Colonial, Paramount.
Lowell— Merrimack Square, Strand.
Lynn—Olympia, Paramount.
Needham—Paramount.
New Bedford—Capitol, Olympia
Newton—Paramount.
North Cambridge—Harvard.
Somerville—Strand.
Worcester—Capitol.
CONNECTICUT
Hartford—Allyn.
New Haven—Paramount.
Norwalk—Norwalk.
South Norwalk—Empress.
RHODE ISLAND
Newport—Strand.
Pawtucket—Strand.
Woonsocket—Stadium.
MAINE
Bangor—Bijou, Opera House, Park.
Bath—Opera House, Uptown.
Biddeford—Central, City.
Fort Fairfield—Paramount.
Houlton—Houlton, Temple.
Orono—Strand.
Rockland—Park, Strand.
Waterville—Haines.
Westbrook—Star.
VERMONT
Barre—Magnet, Paramount.
Rutland—Grand, Paramount, Strand.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Dover— Strand.
i
Continued next page)
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949
NE

. . Virginia's
. . Carl
.
. . Gloria
. . Seen
. . West
. . Micky
. . Beverly
. . New
i
LUNCHEON FOR TERRY MOORE—Columbia anrt Loews, Inc., were hosts to
starlet Terry Moore at a luncheon in the Town House on the occasion of Miss Moore's
recent visit to Boston. Shown above, standing, left to right: Jim Shanahan, head of
Loew's publicity for Boston theatres; Elinor Hughes, Boston Herald critic; Jack
Mercer, manager of Loew's Orpheum; Jim Tibbetts, manager of Loew's State; Charles
Kurtzman, director of Loews publicity for the northeastern territory; Mrs. Kurtzman
and Charles Howard, Boston Globe critic. Seated, back row: Peggy Doyle, Boston
Record critic; Helen Eager, Boston Traveler critic; Terry Moore; Mary Sullivan,
Boston Advertiser critic; Mrs. Moore, the starlet's mother, and Priscilla Fortesque of
station WEEI. SeateA, front row: Mrs. L. French, Boston charity worker; Fred Cole,
result of efforts of film folk in this territory
. . . Lawrence Theatre, New Haven,
has upped its admission from 40 to 44 cents
in keeping with other Fishman houses.
Dr. J. B. Fishman, head of the Fishman
neighborhood circuit, has been invited to be
one of the sponsors of a dinner February 4
in New York of the National Conference of
Christians and Jews, at which Rodgers and
Hammerstein, Irene Dunne and Ned Depinet
will be honored for their work . . . Max
Bob Kaufman. 20th-Fox exploit artist,
spent week at the home office . . Connecticut
a
.
Theatres' new Hy-Way. Bridge-
port, was set with equipment by National
Theatre Supply for opening during the last
days of 1948, but seats delayed the starting
signal and the date was tentatively reported
as January 12 . . . Engagement rings made
it a merry Christmas for Virginia D'Addio
of United Artists and Margaret Avalon of
RKO . fiance is Alfred Smith
of RKO's shipping department, and Margaret
is engaged to Al Abato of this city
to Daytona Beach and points south for a
winter vacation, returning to these parts
next March to ready his drive-in for an
April reopening . End Theatre.
Bridgeport, will be remodeled and ready for
grand opening next month Theatre,
Bridgeport, second B&Q house under
construction in the area, will not see operation
until next summer.
New Loew house in Norwich should be in
swing by March . Ketaineck of the
MGM staff will take a winter vacation in
Birnbaums, Warner salesman, and his wife
were seeing the night spots and theatres in Florida, leaving January 29 . . . Harry Shaw.
New York on a vacation . Goe and Loew-Poli division manager, celebrates his
his wife returned from a visit to Southern 25th wedding anniversary and his 15th year
Pines . . Bill Hutchins, National Theatre with Loew's here next March . Camwood
pastel ovenware, distributed by Quality
Supply manager, and his wife are entertainment
chairmen of Hamden's High Lane
Premium, opened Wednesday as a one-a
club.
week giveaway at the Fishman Howard, Dixwell,
and Community. Fairfield.
College Theatre here has a new solid walnut
front lobby and fluorescent lights and
a similar job is contemplated at the Bijou,
as well as a new walnut boxoffice at the
Poli . . . Poli used a sound truck to toot
its late New Year's eve show.
To Present Yiddish Musical
HARTFORD—The Center here will present
a Yiddish musical, featuring Aaron Lebedeff.
at $3.60 top. on January 10.
Mullin to Head 56
In Spliiup of M&P
i
Continued from preceding pagei
AMERICAN THEATRES CORP.
i
Pinanski-managed
Arlington—Capitol.
Boston—Washington Street. Modern, Esquire.
Brighton— Circle. Egyptian, Allston.
Mattapan—Oriental. Franklin, Morton,
Liberty.
East Milton—State.
Falmouth—Falmouth, Elizabeth.
Hull—Bayside.
Hyde Park—Fairmount, Hyde Park.
Jamaica Plain—Jamaica, Eggleston.
Marlboro—Marlboro.
Natrick—Colonial.
New London—Capitol.
North Attleboro—Community.
Portland— State. Maine.
Roslindale—Rialto, Bellevue.
Roxbury— Rivoli. Dudley, Roxie. Warren.
Plaza, Humboldt.
Somerville—Ball, Capitol, Central.
Taunton—Park, State.
Waltham—Embassy, Central, Waltham.
West Newton—Newton.
Wollaston—Wollaston.
North Downs—Regent.
New Haven Variety Club
Installation January 13
NEW HAVEN—Installation of the new Variety
Club Tent 31 officers, headed by Lou
Brown, chief barker, was scheduled for January
13, at the new Chapel street headquarters.
Dinner and other business and
social activities will round out the evening.
Col. William McCraw, national executive director,
and Mayor William C. Celentano of
New Haven will be guests of honor.
Other officers to be installed include George
H. Wilkinson jr. of Wallingford, assistant
chief barker; Ben Simon, 20th-Fox manager,
second assistant chief barker; Hugh Maguire.
RKO office manager, property master,
and Harry Rosenblatt, MGM manager,
dough guy. New board of directors consists
of the officers and Herman M. Levy, TOA
counsel; Harry F. Shaw, Loew Poli division
manager: Arthur Greenfield, U-I manager,
and A. J. Mattes of Photo News Service.
Claw
Ejection by Iron
Causes Oxford Lawsuit
OXFORD. MASS.—The ejection of a high
school boy from the Oxford Town Hall Theatre
is the basis of a $5,000 suit filed in
superior court. Thomas Burns of Charlton,
is father of the youth, suing Policeman
Richard Bellows of Oxford, who allegedly
used a steel "claw" on the boy's right arm,
causing a fracture. The film shows in Oxford
are conducted by the Champ Amusement
Co. of Worcester.
Theatremen Dine on Venison
HARTFORD — Bernie Stevens, assistant
manager at the Princess, and his brother
Eugene enjoyed a deer dinner the other night,
the result of Eugene's hunting trip to New
Hampshire.
94
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949

——
.
.
'Paleface 7
and 'Paisan'
Lead Spurt in Boston
BOSTON — Following a pre - Christmas
slump, business snapped back in fine shape
with new- product in nearly every spot. "The
Paleface" at the Metropolitan and "Paisan"
at the Exeter Street were the standouts. A
series of stage shows were inaugurated at the
Keith Boston, with Mickey Rooney and Janis
Paige in person for a fine start. The Astor,
with "Enchantment," took a terrific spurt
after several doldrum weeks.
As::-
100)
(Col)
Exeter Street—Poison (Mayer-Burstyn)
Majestic—The Rod Shoes (EL), 6th wk .
Memorial—Every Girl Should Be Married (Rf
Behind Locked Doors (EL)
Metropolitan—The Paleface (Para), Dynamite
(Para)
Paramount and Fenway—Fighter Squadron (V
Last oi the Wild Horses (SG)
Stale and Orpheum—The Man From Coloi
(Col); Leather Gloves (Col)
Hartford Grosses Average 100
With "Words and Music' Tops
HARTFORD—Bad weather and decreases
in metropolitan area industrial employment
listings brought only fair to better-thanaverage
trade into the first runs.
Allyn—The Paleface (Para); Dynamite (Para).
2nd wk d. t.
Center — Jenny
110
Lamour (Vog Films); Lucretia
Borgia (Vog Films) 70
M. Loews—The Man E. From Colorado (Col);
Blondies Secret (Col) 90
Loews Poli—Words and Music (MGM); shorts 120
Palace—When My Baby Smiles at Me (20th-Fox);
The Strange Mrs. Crane (EL). 2nd wk Sb
Regal—Station West (RKO). Rose of the Yukon
(Rep) . 85
State Jiggs and Maggie in Court (Mono), plus
stage show 80
Strand—One Sunday Afternoon (WB); Parole. Inc.
(EL) 100
Fair on Xmas. New Haven
Business Spurts on Sunday
NEW HAVEN—Christmas day business was
only fair at downtown houses, but Sunday
following was excellent. Saturday openings
at the Loew Poli and College, to be in effect
until after the first of the year, make it difficult
to compare takes. Detail for week ending
December 29:
Bijou—The Plunderers (Rep); Nighttime in Nevada
(Rep) 100
College Coroner Creek (Col), Leather Gloves
(Col) 103
Loew Poll—When My Baby Smiles at Me (20th-
Fox); Trouble Preferred (20th-Fox) 108
Paramount—The Paleface (Para); Smart Woman
Bill Koster Is Preparing
Two Testimonial Dinners
BOSTON— Bill Koster, managing director
of the Variety Club, is arranging for two
testimonial dinners. The first will be for
Arthur Lockwood, recently named president
of Theatre Owners of America, to be held
January 11 at the Copley-Plaza.
The other is for George W. Horan, recently
promoted Warner district manager over the
Albany, New Haven. Buffalo and Boston exchange
areas. This will be held in February.
Book 'Hamlet' at Hartford
HARTFORD—Tentative booking of January
20 at Loew's Poli Palace is set for the
Eagle Lion release of "Hamlet." It will run
for an indefinite time.
January 8, 1949
uc
Community Supports
Theatreman
In Fighting Juvenile Problems
HARTFORD—The postwar theatreman's
headache of juvenile delinquency and Us
effects on film houses throughout the country
is being eliminated at a suburban motion
picture theatre here. Douglas Amos, manager
of the Webb Playhouse, a Lockwood-
Gordon-Rosen situation in Wethersfield,
just over the Hartford city line, has been
Douglas Amos, Webb Playhouse manager,
standing at left, pointing out some
of his work to a friend in the theatre
office.
developing various plans to curb juvenile delinquency,
not only in his theatre, but also
in the neighborhood.
Several months ago Amos held a conference
with heads of the local Parent-Teachers
Ass'n about complaints he had received
from parents about the unsuitability of adult
pictures for children's performances.
ANNOUNCED IN SCHOOLS
"I agreed to book only children's shows,"
he said, "and as a result, the PTA agreed
to not only allow its name to be used in
newspaper ads but also to allow school principals
and teachers to announce the weekly
programs through school bulletin boards and
student assemblies."
Currently all newspaper advertising
stresses the fact that the Saturday children's
matinees are "Parent-Teachers Ass'n approved
and endorsed kiddy shows." Each
of the six grade schools is plugging
the weekly shows at no charge to Amos.
The change in Saturday afternoon programs
meant, of course, a change in booking
policy. So Amos pulled out adult programs
for Saturday and substituted all kiddy shows,
one feature, a serial and half a dozen cartoons.
"The actual cost in changing over in bookings
for Saturdays," Amos said, "is slight.
All we have to buy extra are the serial and
kid feature. The cartoons we can use for
Saturday night shows as supporting fare for
the regularly booked adult program."
Amos wasn't content to rest on his laurels,
however, so with the thought of wiping out
juvenile delinquency he went ahead with
additional plans. He got the permission of
the PTA and school officials to award a
"Good Conduct Pass" every week with a
representative of all six grade schools admitted
free to the performances on Saturday.
The honor is given on a basis of grades,
etc. As a top honor, Amos gives a free box
of popcorn to each pass holder weekly.
Amos makes it a practice never to hire
ushers, candy girls or cashiers under the
age of 20. "In this way," he said, "we never
get kickbacks from the patrons. The service
staff aides over 20 command more respect
from the youngsters, who, resultantly, keep
quieter during performances."
Cooperation with the Connecticut State
Highway Department has reduced the number
of potential auto accidents in the theatre
vicinity. Through cooperation with the state
department Amos had painted numerous direction
signs on the theatre's permanent surfaced
parking area.
"These signs do a lot," he said, "to prevent
kids running onto the highway, near bus
stops and parked cars."
SPECIAL AWARDS ISSUED
Along the same line Amos gained active
support from the Wethersfield police department
and last summer he held weekly bicycle
inspections, free of charge, for Wethersfield
youngsters.
Certificates were given at the inspecting
area in the rear of the theatre building.
Amos recently concluded a safety campaign
in which guest theatre tickets were
awarded every week to the local youngsters
showing the best way to prevent traffic accidents.
At the conclusion of a ten-week
period, the local police chief presented a special
award to the child who demonstrated
leadership ability in safety.
The youngsters who had shown various
ways of preventing accidents, such as making
sure no traffic was on the street when preparing
to cross, also were invited to appear
on the theatre stage and talk to their friends
on the subject.
During the summer. Amos, faced with the
problem of a number of theatre parking lot
cars broken into by youngsters, solved that
headache by increasing the lighting on the
lot, putting on a fulltime parking lot attendant
and placing a few spotlights on the theatre
roof to shine down on the lot.
As for noise-makers in the theatre, Amos
has this suggestion:
"Don't evict the trouble-makers right away,
and don't send an usher down to insure quiet.
Instead, the manager himself should sit down
quietly behind the kids and tell them quietly
that further noise will mean immediate evici
Continued on next pagei
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Showman Wins Help
From Community
(Continued from preceding pagei
tion. That should quiet them down. Dragging
them into the manager's office and calling
their parents usually will get a weak, 'Oh,
that couldn't be MY son!' No, you have to
use stronger measures. Recognize the noisemakers
the first offense. Next time the
same trouble-making kids show up, refuse
them admittance. This will usually shame
them into promises of keeping quiet, and, I
think, mean a much quieter theatre in the
future."
Amos doesn't believe in letting the kid
noise problem lie idle either. Recently, he
In
started a series of stage entertainments designed
especially for youngsters. These shows,
consisting of marionettes or trained bears, are
booked through New York and appear during
school holidays or vacation weeks. In
addition, Amos has from time to time put
on pie-eating contests for children from 8
to 10. Turnout on that stunt was tremendous.
"I know," Amos said, "that the problem
juvenile delinquency in any community
of
is not to be dismissed lightly. But I believe
that by working consistently, and I mean
consistently, with local townspeople, the
PTA, school principals, teachers and parents,
the average theatreman can get a better
understanding of the existing situation and
decide upon a good course to follow."
Saturday afternoon, however, is an important
time around the Webb and Amos
has noted that most of the youngsters come
the New
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to the theatre with a quarter in their hands.
Admission is 16 cents. That leaves nine cents
change and most of the kids dash for the
theatre concession stand where they purchase
candy bars for six cents. That leaves
three cents.
"That three cents is mighty important
here," Amos said. "In the past, I've had
countless kids come over to me and say,
Mr. Amos, give me three cents so I can
buy another candy bar.' We've solved this
problem, too. We've taken the regularly
priced six-cent candy packages, broken them
in two, and sold 'em for three cents. This
satisfies
everybody."
Balk by Darien Board
Ends Drive-In Plans
HARTFORD—Plans of
the Jen-Vir Realty
Co. to build a drive-in on the Darien-Norwalk
town line, were dealt a fatal blow by
announcement of the Darien board of adjustment
that it would not postpone again
the realty firm's petition for a variance in
zoning regulations.
The theatre, according to previous plans,
would extend from a business zone in Darien
and a light industrial zone in Norwalk into
residential zones in both towns.
The board's refusal to grant a delay on
the petition automatically brought about the
withdrawal of the company's petition for a
zoning variance which would have allowed
the company to build the drive-in.
The realty firm last week presented its
application to the board in Darien and the
board of appeals in Norwalk in an effort
to secure zoning variances for the ozoner.
The Norwalk board reserved decision on the
matter.
Representatives of several organizations in
Darien appeared before the board of adjustment
to oppose plans for the 774-car drive-in.
No reasons for objections were given.
14-Day Clearance Given
Park in East Walpole
BOSTON—Roy Smith of the Park, East
Walpole. has been awarded a 14-day clearance
over the Norwood and Guild theatres
in Norwood. Smith originally was given a
21-day stopdate by the Boston arbitration
board but on appeal the New York appeal
board reduced the clearance by seven days.
Intervenors in the appeal were the Elite,
Walpole, operated by the Graphic circuit and
the Southern, South Norwood, operated by
John Hayes. They were given relief of a
seven-day reduction in clearance, from 21
days to 14 and from 35 to 28, respectively.
The Norwood and Guild theatres are operated
by the Giles circuit.
BOXOFFICE January' 8. 1949

. . . Donald
. . The
. . Walter
. . . Margaret
. . Vaughn
. . The
. . The
Three Connecticut Bills
Would Affect Video Use
HARTFORD—The Connecticut legislature
is being asked to consider three bills regulating
the installation and use of television
and mobile telephones in automobiles.
State Representative Louis A. Lemair has
offered a bill which would provide penalties
up to $1,000 for installation of a television
set in any place where it would distract the
operator of any vehicle.
Elmer S. Watson, Connecticut state motor
vehicles commissioner, has prepared bills to
regulate television and mobile telephones.
A Watson-proposed bill to regulate the installation
of television sets in motor vehicles
requires that the screen be installed in such
position that the driver of the car cannot
see it. A $100 penalty for violation is set by
the bill.
Another bill proposed by Watson would require
that a mobile telephone must not be
used while a car is in motion. Additionally,
it requires that whenever the driver wants
to make or accept a call, he must stop his
car. A $100 fine is provided for violations
under this bill.
Theatre Starts Litigation
Over Reflected Sunlight
SPRINGFIELD, MASS.—Judge Daniel D.
O'Brien in Hampden county superior court
has taken under advisement the equity suit
of the Wernic Theatre in Chicopee Falls,
against Mrs. Donalda V. Rinquette in which
the theatre seeks to compel the defendant
to paint the front of a building opposite the
theatre in a color other than white.
The theatre manager and one of his employes
complained that while standing in
the lobby facing the barber shop across the
street, they were blinded by the reflected
sunlight and had difficulty seeing patrons
enter the theatre.
The owners of the property contended it
had been a barber shop since 1921 and that
during the greater part of that time the
front was painted white, being painted the
last time in 1946 at the request of the
tenant. It was contended by the defendant
that Samuel Wernick, owner of the chain,
had complained two years ago about the
reflected light and later sought to buy the
building, but that when the defendant suggested
a sale price the theatre decided not
to
buy.
John Westley, 70. Stricken;
Was Actor for 35 Years
HARTFORD—John Westley, 70, an actor
for 35 years and widely known in Connecticut
as a member of the Hunter Bradford
Players who appeared at the old Parsons
Theatre, Hartford, died last week in Los Angeles,
according to information received here.
At one time Westley was a member of the
Poli Players. He also appeared in numerous
vay
shows.
Hartfordites Start 17th Year
HARTFORD—Edward Mascotti and Lewis
H. Turner, projectionists at the Princess
Theatre, are now starting their 17th year in
the theatres booth. They joined the theatre
staff back in 1932.
WORCESTER
7lbout 700 persons were requested to leave
the Cummings in Fitchburg when fire
broke out in a four-story building next door.
Six families fled the flames, which swept
the rear of the tenement block. Smoke filtered
into the theatre, and Manager Michael
A. Fasano said the audience, composed mostly
of children, made an orderly exit after
Policeman John W. Devens and Doorman
Harold O'Dell walked through the aisles,
asking them to leave . . . Thelma Ritter,
who has just signed a contract with 20th-
Fox, is a former ingenue of the summer stock
company at Brookfield Town Hall.
.
John Barone of suburban Millbury has
been named chief production assistant for
the new Broadway play, "The Ivy Green"
Brian, who died recently, made
his last stage appearance in Worcester two
years ago at the Playhouse King,
projectionist in Maynard, has been elected
sergeant-at-arms by the International Alliance
of IATSE of the United States and
Canada . Whitinsville stock company
was closed during Christmas week . . . Alicia
Rouleau, Milford show girl, was Jeanne
Crain's stand-in for location shots of "A
Letter to Three Wives."
John Wayne, the film star, put through a
telephone call from Hollywood to Worcester
recently to talk with Loris Boutwell and
compliment her on her activity in behalf of
the John Wayne Fan club . . . Fire destroyed
the 1880 club in suburban Westboro,
on the Boston- Worcester Turnpike. Loss was
$30,000, with only the cellar hole to prove
the club ever existed . . . Petitions were filed
for race tracks, with pari-mutuel betting, in
both Charlton and East Brookfield.
Bob Portle, manager of the Elm Street,
and Jack Kenney, retired comedian, had a
long talk at the theatre the other night.
They discussed the days when both were in
vaudeville . . . Mike Powers, doorman at the
Plymouth, died recently . . . Among Worcester
show people home for Christmas were Michael
Bartlett, Jean Dawn, Shirley Betts, Mara
Williams, Nardini and Nadine, Pauline Gay
and Court and Saunders.
Bob Robison, former manager of the
Plymouth, arrived from Miami to spend a
few weeks. Now associated with the Harlecker
indoor circus, he expects to stay north for
awhile . Monroe and Horace Heidt
were in town . annual holiday party
of Warner employes was held on the stage
after a recent evening performance. Manager
John Matthews served as master of ceremonies.
The automobile of Dottie Gengel, manager
the Oxford Town Hall Theatre, was damaged
of
in a collision on the Boston turnpike
Bannerman, English and
American stage actress, was a visitor in
North Oxford . mother of Margaret
Robichaud of the Elm Street died.
Seeks Permit for Ozoner
PROVIDENCE—Edward A. McNulty, operator
of a sports arena in Lonsdale, R. I., has
applied to the Lincoln town council for permission
to construct an outdoor theatre on
Lonsdale avenue there. The council voted
to hold a public hearing on the application
January 10.
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TECTURAL G N E R S
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949

. . Meyer
. . William
BOSTON
J^fickey Rooney, first attraction on the
Keith Boston's resumed stage show policy,
became ill during the show on the next
to the last day's engagement and was forced
to remain in his hotel suite for the final
day, too. Signs were posted in front of the
theatre and doormen were told to announce
his absence. Business dropped off 40 per
cent. Frank Fontaine, local comedian, was
rushed into the spot as a substitute . . The
.
Christmas card sent out by Capitol Theatre
Supply has been causing favorable comment.
The greeting was in the form of a regular
invoice, printed on the firm's stationery. The
"terms" were 1,000.000 good wishes and 365
days of good cheer and the price added up to
total happiness. The card was the idea of
Ken Douglass, head of Capitol.
Independent Exhibitors of New England
will hold its monthly meeting January 11 ai
Steuben's restaurant when the nominating
committee will be selected and discussions of
regular business will take place. A large attendance
is expected . Stanzler.
president of Independent Theatre Owners of
Rhode Island, an Allied affiliate, presided at
a meeting Wednesday (5i at the Hotel Narragansett
in Providence. Matters pertaining
to legislation and PTA cooperation were discussed.
Phil Smith, president of the Philip Smith
Enterprises, his wife and daughter Nancy will
be in Palm Beach this month and February.
They will leave January 20. His son Richard
will remain at the office. The two new
theatres leased by Smith in the shopping centers
to be erected in Framingham and Beverly
will go into construction in the spring.
Each shopping center will have 65 stores as
well as a 1,500-seat indoor theatre. Plans now
are to have the Framingham project start
first with the Beverly one to start three
months later, both to be completed by the
spring of 1950. The New York firm of Ketchem
For Theatre Premiums
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& Gina is the architect with Ben Schlanger,
associate.
The New England National Conference of
Christians and Jews division will celebrate
its 20th anniversary February 27 at the Boston
Opera House. James M. Connolly, sales
manager at 20th-Fox, is co-chairman of the
house committee, while Ben Domingo, district
manager for RKO Theatres, is on the advisory
council. The conference sponsored the
appearance of the Freedom train in Boston
January 3. Arthur Lockwood, president of
TOA, is the theatre division chairman for
New England.
Myer Fox has joined Film Classics as
Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont salesman.
He formerly was with Columbia here
and in Buffalo. Nat Ross, one of the oldest
salesmen in point of years in New England,
has joined FC as western Massachusetts and
Rhode Island salesman. For 20 years he was
a salesman in the Maine. New Hampshire
and Vermont sector. Al Wheeler resigned as
FC salesman to return to his native Pittsburgh,
where he has joined United Artists.
"Joan of Arc" is set for the Keith Memorial
Theatre January 26 at advanced prices.
Six shows a day will be given on week days
at continuous run . J. Cuddy, who
has been with RKO and Pathe for 24 years
and more recently with Screen Guild, has
joined U-I in western Massachusetts.
Exhibitor's Letter Serves
As Tonic After Big Storm
From Midwest
Edition
OMAHA—M. G. Rogers, Film Transport
Co. chief, expected a beef. It was a long
letter, handwritten. It must have taken
half an hour of the exhibitor's precious time.
The letter began by telling of how his
theatre patrons watch the advertisements
and trailers ahead for a week or two, how
they plan to see a certain picture rain, shine,
or otherwise.
The night of November 19, the letter continued,
was a stormy one. The ice and snow
had come. Telephone and telephone wires
were down; the trains stopped running. But
the theatre was crammed—everyone waiting
for the picture they had been told about.
How was the exhibitor going to satisfy them
when he announced, "I'm sorry, the film
didn't arrive."
Rogers had about reached the breaking
point when he reached this portion of the
letter, but he sighed in pleasurable relief
a second later when he read: "Believe me I
was a happy exhibitor when the white film
truck rolled up in front with my show aboard,
ten minutes before show time."
The exhibitor. H. J. Feldman, manager of
the Legion Theatre at Sioux Center, Iowa,
went on to give ample credit to the film
truck driver "who has a thankless Job" and
is always "courteous and efficient."
After one of the worst weeks In the history
of Nebraska film business. Rogers said
the letter was Just the tonic needed.
Projectionist to Marry
MANCHESTER. N. H —A project mni.M .a
the Strand, Thomas H. Cooley. will be married
In April 1949 to Beverly Ann Dastin.
Double Feature Bills
On Decline in Canada
Trom Canadian Edition
MONTREAL—The double feature bill is
on the decline in Canada, it is revealed in
the Dominion bureau of statistics' annual
survey of the Canadian film trade, which
shows that last year the double bill made up
53 per cent of performances against 57 per
cent in 1946.
A record $78,684,000 was shoved through
the boxoffices, 5 per cent up from 1946. Of
the total, $15,819,000 went to governments
amusement taxes.
in
The take was a record $6.30 for every man,
woman and child in Canada. This was 15
cents more than the 1946 average.
Despite the higher receipts, attendance
declined from 227.538.000 in 1947 to 220,-
857,000 last year.
The average admission price in 1947 (exclusive
of taxi was 28.5 cents, compared with
26.3 the year before.
Theatres had increased receipts in all
provinces except Nova Scotia, where the 1947
take was down 10 per cent from 1946. Biggest
gain was Prince Edward Island's 14
per cent. Only Prince Edward Island and
Quebec showed increased attendance.
Of Canada's 1.693 theatres, 893 were owned
by individuals rather than by chains. These
got 18 per cent of receipts.
Six drive-in theatres, five in Ontario and
one in British Columbia, had gross receipts
of $316,000. They were attended by 637.000
patrons.
Five legitimate theatres, whose main
source of revenue was stage performances,
grossed $1,214,000 from 702.611 patrons. This
was down from 1946.
The 1,693 theatres operated during the
year had a combined seating capacity of
834,360. This compared with 1,477 theatres
and 758.642 seats in 1946.
Last year 27 theatres closed their doors,
233 new ones began operation and ten others
were reopened.
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BOXOFFICE :: January' 8. 1949

Labor Delegates Ask
Repeal of Tax Law
HARTFORD
Col Karp
OK
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. . __ .. ___. _.
.
. ..
of the 1»*7 local "tax anything" law. The
-.:- abased bra peraras --..y.z^r.a ami i: . :.
; 5 - -,
school boards to tax anything not taxed by a . rJu( theatre.
the state of Pennsylvania.
A state tax on fuel oil and natural gas was JtA BahrinkJe. manager for OJ-p-hj- at
proposed by the United Mine Workers as a Aih.ny *»$ bere renewing acquaintance
ill He for the "tax anything" law. — ---
v ir :_- q KbUmx Ehe ftlmam
) I
Djepanenti : - ihtyHgM mw»»1 *> — Tcatn § Ike tan raked ::: PteSI ItataoaJ
Pennsyirania will fight a determined battle
m j^,,. g^t,,^ Lew Ginsburg "»*
te oat 1MB general asseai :'_- wipe :.: (km Berate tetj ::' Aamufeaaaabed ?:u::f- New
-
- Haren. were risitors ... Ted and Joe Marlkw
Castie. Pa, has joined 78 towns terymg
^^ ^ ^ ^^jtoft Theatres and their wires
a wage tax. Tt> offset the proposed tax of 1
miIlNeT Tork ft*. a weekend risit . . .
teceeac el AMooea Pa _:;i- --, 5-^-, ^ s -- u _- : ^ f; ejawfcaaaated
Nkwraa —-'. enact then:
The
mac
aval
Join the Widening Circle
Send in your reports to BOXOFFICE
on response of patrons to pictures
you show. Be one of the many who
report to -
THE EXHIBITOR HAS HIS
SAY
Address your letters to Editor
"Exhibitor Has His Scry." 825
Van Brunt Blvd.. Kansas City,
Mo.
A Widely Read Weekly Feature of Special Interest
)
BOXOFFICE
Always in the Forefront With the News
km
erj
:
bM

. . John
Johnstons Defense One of Best!
HARTFORD—The Hartford Courant recently
explanation of this, he points out that drama
the president
usually pivots around these three aspects of
editorially that
declared
of the Motion Picture Ass'n, Eric John-
"one the defenses of
human life.
then, that
It is not
offends intelligent
the subject matter,
audiences,
of best ston, had given
Hollywood that has yet been made."
Johnston argues, but the manner in which
"As Johnston points out," the article said, the material is handled.
"although the so-called intelligentsia are "As bad as Hollywood may seem, it is a
likely to look down their noses at Hollywood,
motion pictures from the U.S. are
more popular abroad than any other. Even
In the Soviet-dominated countries of Poland
and Czechoslovakia, the people spurn the
Soviet offerings and jam the theatres when
an occasional American film is shown.
•Johnston is by far the most rational
voice speaking for the motion picture industry.
of it Instead trying to spread on
with milk and honey, he admits frankly that
some things are wrong. He concedes absorption
with sex. crime and love, but in
fact that the limitations are self-imposed
and are not due to governmental meddling.
In this respect the American product, with
all its weaknesses, is far more appealing to
the peoples of the world than the propaganda
films of the Soviet. And even Britain's
Labor government seems to be falling into
a self-made trap. Although previously signing
an agreement with American picture
makers, Mr. Attlee's government suddenly
cracked down with a new quota, two times
higher than the previous one, a legislative
device denying the British people freedom
of choice in selecting motion picture entertainment.
"But they still have the choice of staying
away from the theatre. Johnston is not
alone in believing that this move will legislate
people out of the theatre and eventually
will drag British exhibitors into a depression.
Unless the British character has been
greatly changed by two world wars, that Is
precisely what will happen. You can tell
a man what he can't see, but not even in the
Soviet-dominated satellites have they found
a device for luring people into theatres voluntarily
to see bad pictures. Human nature
may be capricious, but that Is a fact that
those who try to legislate on human tastes
should constantly bear In mind.
"In the U.S. if you sit through a bad
picture at least the punishment is self-inflicted.
It is not the work of an officialdom
that thinks it knows what is best for you.
There is a consolation in that fact which
makes up for any number of banal Bs."
NEWHAMPSHIRE
Mew Year's eve shows helped welcome 1949
in New Hampshire theatres, especially
the larger houses in Manchester. At the
Palace "The Three Danwoods" headed the
vaudeville program while the screen feature
was "Yokel Boy." "The Paleface" was shown
at the State. "The Three Musketeers" was
the film headliner at the midnight show at
the Strand in Dover.
Mrs. Ida Mae Carter Teehan, 74. former
actress who was associated with repertory
companies throughout New England and Nova
Scotia at the turn of the century, died recently
in her home at Lake Massabesic in
Manchester.
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A motion picture tracing the various
processes in the manufacture of leather was
shown by S. Kenneth Bruce, eastern sales
manager of the International Shoe Co. at
a recent meeting of the Manchester Rotary
club. The film is being sent to Norway and
Sweden to aid leather manufacturers.
What the management described as "two
terrific Technicolor hits" were brought back
to the Palace in Manchester. The films were
"Drums" and "Four Feathers" .
H.
Callahan of the Motion Picture Operators
Local 195 has been elected president of the
Manchester Central Labor Council.
The Scenic in Rochester distributed 15
gifts worth more than $200 to fortunate patrons
... A bill has been introduced in the
legislature to change the Labor day observance
date from the first to third Monday
in September as a move to extend New
Hampshire's summer recreation season. At
least two previous attempts to legalize the
change have failed. The latest measure is
sponsored by Rep. Harold H. Hart of Wolfeboro.
Charles A. Crocco. executive of the Dover
Film Corp., described the rapidly expanding
operations of his concern in a recent talk
before the Dover Kiwnnis club Through
. . .
the courtesy of Photocenter, a photographic
establishment in Nashua, a large screen was
hung from the front of the Nashua city hall
to show films during a big community holiday
program.
100
BOXOFTICE 1949

Texans to Hollywood
For 'Tulsa' Screening
DALLAS—Herman Biersdorf, Eagle Lion
division manager, took several bookers and
buyers for 700 theatres to Hollywood for a
special screening of "Tulsa." Dick Owen,
EL publicity man in this area, arranged the
jaunt via American Air Lines and was in
charge of the trip. Passengers included Bob
Davis of Theatre Enterprises, Hank Robb and
John Rowley of Robb & Rowley Theatre,
Raymond Willie and Ray Jones of Interstate
Theatres, Sam Landrum of Jefferson Amusement
Co., Frank McCable of Griffith Amusement
Co. and Ralph Drury of the Ralph
Talbot Theatres. All were to return by the
end of the week. The picture will receive its
world premiere in March in one of the Talbot
houses in Tulsa.
'El Paso' Slated to Open
In Texas and Oklahoma
NEW YORK—Paramount has made arrangements
with R. J. O'Donnell of Interstate
Theatres, Texas, to open the Pine-
Thomas color production of "El Paso" in
seven Texas and Oklahoma theatres in March
and April. John Payne. Gail Russell, Sterling
Hayden. George "Gabby" Hayes and
Dick Foran, stars of the film, are scheduled
to make personal appearances.
The first opening will be at El Paso March
28. The stars will next appear at San Antonio,
March 30; Houston. March 31: Dallas,
April 1: Fort Worth, April 2; Oklahoma City,
April 3. and Tulsa, April 4.
El Paso Drive-In Installs
In-A-Car Sound System
EL PASO, TEX.—E. L. Pack reportedly was
considering building a third local drive-in
as the improvement program on the El Paso
Drive-in got under way with installation of
a new $30,000 sound system to provide 600
individual speakers. The parking area also
was resurfaced. Pack's Del Norte Drive-In,
his second local situation, is equipped with
individual speakers. The two ozoners represent
an investment of $250,000.
Sidney Metcalf Named
Oaklawn, Inc.. Manager
TEXARKANA. ARK.—Sidney Metcalf is
the new president and general manager of
Oaklawn Theatres, Inc., owners of the Oaklawn
and Queen theatres here. Metcalf formerly
was secretary-manager of the Chamber
of Commerce in Purcell, Okla., and had interests
in theatres in that city. Metcalf
served with the armed forces during World
War II and prior to the war operated a theatre
at Morrilton, Ark.
Club to Sponsor Benefit
IRVING, TEX.—The Lions club wiU buy
playground equipment for the elementary
school with money from a benefit show to
be staged at Hans Smith's Irving Theatre.
Mrs. A. H. Walker will direct pupils in a
home talent stage show, and the theatre will
run a Betty Hutton picture.
Dallas Extends Hearty Welcome
To Sack Brothers Art Theatre
Above: The home office staff of Sack Amusement Enterprises at the opening of the
new Coronet. Left to right: Albert Flores, general assistant to the Sack brothers;
Lester J. Sack; Robert M. Moscow, under whose direction the theatre was built; John
J. Mitchell, office manager; Beverly Littlejohn, secretary; Mrs. Maria Mclntire, Coronet
cashier; Alfred N. Sack, general manager, and Leroy Beavers, Coronet manager.
Below: The Coronet front on opening night.
DALLAS—The Coronet, 500-seat neighborhood
art theatre, launched by Alfred N. and
Lester J. Sack, played to near capacity crowds
for two performances each night during its
first week in operation here. The second
night did a little less business than the first,
but the third night equaled the first.
The picture was the Italian made, "The
Barber of Seville." Matinees are run on
Sunday. Admission prices are 60 cents for
adults and 25 for children.
The house will show mainly foreign-language
films and classics of other years. Laurence
Olivier in "Henry V" is advertised for
January 15 and it is possible that the current
attraction will run until then.
The Sacks, who own and operate Sack
Amusement Enterprises, have long been in
film distribution and recently produced sev-
will be successful. Amusements editors of
the two local newspapers gave generous coverage
to the new type house. The big stores
here, including Nieman-Marcus and A. Harris
& Co., and several others, ran ads commending
the new enterprise. Large numbers
of patrons attended the first week from
Fort Worth, Denton, Greenville, Sherman
and Wichita Falls, and several drove down
from Oklahoma City.
Alfred Sack, dynamo of the Enterprises,
said that although his company owns rights
on a number of films, they will first be offered
in the regular channel to the downtown
first runs, "Paisan." made in Italy and
recipient of high honors by amusement authorities,
will show first in the Telenews
before opening at the Coronet. The picture
also has other key city first run dates.
eral Negro pictures. Accumulating rights on
attending Washington University In
After foreign films, they saw an opportunity here
for an art theatre and leased the Gay when St. Louis, Sack picked the show business for
a career and operated the Dreamland in
that house was available. The Gay was
San Antonio for a year. He soon acquired
from two de luxe houses
less than a mile
which seat 1.000 each, and because of high a print of a Jack Johnson prizefight, bought
a model T and traveled the state with the
costs and limited capacity, could not operate
on a regular film policy. Sack then remodeled
Sack Amusement Enterprises roadshow. For
and renamed the theatre the Coronet the next several years he operated an ex-
There is one other exclusive art theatre change in the Alamo city, handling mostly
the south, the Peach Tree Art in At- reissues. When the depression lifted, he
in
lanta. The Sacks believe their new venture .moved the business to Dallas for bigger fields.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949
sw
101

. . The
. . The
. . Bud
. .
. . Mr.
OKLAHOMA CITY
U K. "Buck" Buchanan, booking manager
for Paramount, was married recently to
Teresa Miller, a nurse at St. Anthony hospital
. . . Reggie Pappas. Paramount secretary,
flew to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl
game. She returned by train four days later
Among the other Filmrow folk to take
in the OU-North Carolina game was C. R.
Guthrie.
Lew Chatham of Tulsa was in New Orleans
for the Sugar Bowl game to take pictures of
the OU win over North Carolina . Vee
Gee Theatre at Okeene has been sold by Mr.
and Mrs. Orville Von Gulker, who are moving
to Fullerton. Calif., where they've purchased
two other theatres . . . Jess Bollman of the
Cooper Foundation here went to New Orleans
for the Sugar Bowl classic. He went on one
of the excursion trains . . . Also there was
H. C. Howard Federer of the Center and
State
theatres.
John Marcom, manager of the Liberty,
was
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called to Texas by the death of his father.
He was away several days .
Gary has
resigned as assistant manager of the Midwest,
a WB house. He plans to enter a local architect's
office. Replacing him was Glen
Walker, former Criterion treasurer . . .
"Words
and Music" at the Liberty was held a third
week. Business has been good, according to
M. D. Brazee. general manager of the WB
Theatre circuit, and holiday weekend business
was very good.
"One Sunday Afternoon" was switched after
a week's play to a double reissue bill at the
Warner . Midwest held "You Gotta
Stay Happy" for almost two weeks . . . Next
there will be "Wake of the Red Witch" .
The Home was packed for New Year's eve.
Admission price was upped and the audience
was treated to a picture and a stage show
The Home's screen policy was suspended
for two days for Ed Wynn's show to move on
stage. Phil Baker and Allan Jones also were
starred in the show. The Home reopened its
picture policy later with "Mexican Hayride."
Gene Hudgens, RKO office manager, has
been confined to Will Rogers Memorial hospital
near here for the past few weeks with
rheumatic fever. He is reported to be improving
steadily and was expected to be released
from the hospital in about a week. His
brother, Charles "Funny" Hudgens. a WB exchange
booker, has a baby son, Russell Carl.
This makes four grandsons for Jim Hudgens.
Columbia office manager. Gene has two boys,
"Funny." two . and Mrs. Dudley-
Tucker jr. have returned from San Antonio
where they spent the holidays. Dudley is a
Columbia salesman . . . Mr. and Mrs. Dudley-
Tucker sr. were in town Monday. Mrs.
Tucker resides in Guthrie, while Tucker operates
the Paul Valley theatre.
Keith Lutz, son of Marie Lutz of Theatre
Poster, has been elected president of his
Oklahoma university social fraternity. Phi
Delta Theta. Keith went to the OU-North
Carolina Sugar Bowl game in New Orleans,
flying down on New Year's eve . . . Ralph
Williams. RKO manager, took in the Sugar
Bowl game, too. He drove to the Crescent
city.
The widely publicized "Brandings" dream
house, built in replica of the house that
appeared in the film, has been sold. The
house opened last August 1 to the public
for a showing of several months. It was
closed in late October, but remained unsold
until recently. The builder. Steve Pennington,
valued the house at about $45,000, but
sale is
the price, undisclosed, believed to have
been considerably less than $45,000. The
buyer of the property was given considerable
publicity with pictures of the house and of
himself . . . R. Lewis Barton is the new first
vice-president of the Capitol Hill Chamber
of Commerce.
Mrs. Avece Waldron, Lindsay exhibitor,
came in for some publicity when the Times
Chas. E. Darden & Co.
102 BOXOFFICE
:: January 8, 1949

. .
carried a story on her brother, Lorenzo Dow nearest patron was 25 feet away. M. D.
Tipton, recently. Young Tipton operates the Brazee, general manager for the WB circuit,
Lorenzo Co. with his brother and sisters, including
said damages totaled about $50.
Mrs. Waldron. Tipton designs "two-
Present at the New Orleans football classic
is faced" furniture. His idea to finish both
between the University of Oklahoma and
example, dark
sides of the furniture. For a
mahogany bedroom suite can be changed to
North Carolina were Mrs. Jess Bollman, wife
of a
a panel design of dark and light woods
Cooper
by
turning the head and
homa City;
footboards of the bed
Foundation executive
Bob Clark and
in Okla-
Bob Browning
of Griffith and their wives. Also in the
around and reversing the drawers in the
party was Mrs. R. Guthrie, wife of a
C.
chest and vanity to match.
Griffith executive.
The Criterion Theatre, a Cooper Foundation
operation, reported its New Year's eve
turnout was the best in its history. Dee
Fuller, manager, said it set record, and
a
that the screen bill, "Paleface," stood up to
"terrific" business, but not record-breaking,
on the succeeding days, including New Year's
day and the day after (Sunday), both of
which were unusually bright sunny days,
good for getting outdoors and driving over
the countryside. On New Year's eve the
Criterion charged $1 admission, starting at
5 p. m. "Paleface," which was still going
great guns at press time, was held.
Gerald Stocker, a Criterion doorman, has
been promoted to treasurer at this Cooper
Foundation situation, replacing Glen Walker
who went to the Midwest, a WB operation,
as assistant . . . "Yellow Sky" moved from
the Criterion and Plaza Friday afternoon (31)
after a nine-day stand, and opened in the
Capitol another Cooper Foundation house.
It played New Year's eve in the Capitol and
on New Year's day it opened in the Tower,
also a Cooper Foundation situation. It is
now playing day and date in these two
theatres.
Only slight damage was done to the Liberty
Theatre recently when a strong wind
blew a 15-foot cast iron standpipe from atop
a nearby building into the roof of the Liberty.
The pipe landed in a back seat in the
balcony. The downstairs was packed and
when the pipe went through the roof it
sounded like an explosion. However, the
From the BOXOFFICE Files
(Twenty Years Ago)
MANAGEMENT of the new Victoria in
Oklahoma City has been assumed by
Phil Isley of the Midwest Film exchange
and it is reported that A. C. Emenhiser, who
promoted the operating company, has retired
from all activity in connection with
the enterprise. Isley has appointed C. W.
Wakefield, formerly of Clinton and Enid, as
house manager.
John Thomas of Garden City, Kas., has
purchased the Temple and Rialto at Kingfisher,
Okla., from Homer Jones . . . H. H.
Hopkins has bought the Empress at Beggs
from Richard Waters, who has gone into the
lumber business.
A. Miller, who recently acquired a third
interest in the Queen Theatre at Palacios,
Tex., has sold his interest to B. E. Sailor.
The theatre firm is now composed of Williams,
Deutsch and Sailor . . . The Myers
Theatre at Carrollton, Tex., has opened .
Carl Ellis, owner and manager of the American
in Perryton, Tex., and one of the county's
largest land owners and stockmen, has announced
he will build a new $45,000 theatre
in Perryton.
FOUED
Modern Theatre
Operation . . .
Every piece of equipment in the modern theatre should be kept in
perfect condition to insure profitable operation. We maintain a
complete stock of parts . . . and a competent staff of service men
. . . ready to answer your call ANY time! In addition, we have on
display EVERYTHING needed to equip a theatre from front door
to back wall! Be friendly and pay us a visit!
RCA-Victor
Distributor
OKLAHOiTlfl THEATRE SUPPLV
J. ILOON PEEK Telephone 7-8691
628 West Grand Avenue
OKLAHOMA CITY 2. OKLA.
January 8, 1949

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DALLAS
T loyd Rust, retired distributor, is spending
some of his time looking after the four
Gene Autry theatres here in which he holds
a substantial interest. He sent Christmas
cards to many friends, and the following week
mailed New Year cards to a selected list with
season passes for 1949 to the four theatres.
Robb & Rowley Theatres reopened the Midway
Theatre on West Jefferson on New
Year's eve. The house was closed three
months for redecorating and reseating. H. R.
Brooks is manager. The theatre was opened
25 years ago by C. Ft. McHenry, who several
years later built the 2.000-seat Texas and
subsequently made a partnership deal with
the circuit.
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OKLAHOMA CITY
John Hampton and his wife of Hollywood,
while here for a holiday visit with his
brother, look up Wallace Walthall, who gave
him a job with National Screen Service in
Oklahoma City 20 years ago. They own and
operate the Movie on the site of the old
Triangle studios where "The Birth of a Nation"
was made. Only silent films are shown
in this unusual house which enjoys a brisk
patronage, film stars and players being steady
customers. Hampton attracts many other
customers by telling them the stars may be
seen there. The house seats 400.
RRE VOU PLRnniRG
R DRIUe-IR THEATRE
FOR SPRinG OPEIUHG?
If so, now is the time to purchase
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Southwestern Theatre Equipment Co.
2010 Jackson Dallas, Texas Phone - C-8579
P. E. Wilson and his wife again were hosts
at a traditional New Year evening at home
following the Cotton Bowl game. Coming
from Tyler were S. G. Fry and his wife.
Others present were E. L. Harris, E. P. Herber,
their wives, and Howard Heigel. all in show
business. There were several other friends.
Westerns-Features-Serials
Tower Pictures Co.
HAROLD SCHWARZ
Horwood St.
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Dallas 1. Texas
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
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Phone T3-2026
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DALLAS
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East Texas county se<
300 seats. property
included. $9,600 cash.
Oklahoma county seat town. 2 theatre, noncompetitive
situation. Profits over S30.000 annually.
Property included. $175,000.
Southern Oklahoma. 2 theatre. 5.000 population.
monthly gross. Sickness forces
$5,000 average
sale. $85,250.
West Texas theatre. Nice brick building, doing
good business. $16,000.
New theatre near Dallas. 3.000 population. 400
seats, parking lot. Property included. $57,200.
Colored theatre Fort Worth. Texas. $15,000.
"JOE"
JOSEPH
2409 Sunset .. Phone Yale 2-7650 .. Dallas. Tex.
January 8. 1949

I houses
Top attractions were culinary specialties prepared
by Mrs. Wilson, for which she has received
many honorable mentions.
Mitchell Lewis, owner of five Negro film
in Houston and a partner in the
j
Capitan here, was on Filmrow several days
booking for those houses. Mack Howard,
manager of J. G. Long's Rainbow Theatre,
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was another visitor
from the Bayou city.
Charles E. Darden experienced one of the
most hectic weeks in a business career which
may not yet have reached the half way point.
He moved into his new home north of town
on New Year's morning. He had attended
the Variety Club dance the night before, and
he saw the Cotton Bowl game the next afternoon.
On Sunday and Monday he was in bed
with the flu.
Variety Club's New Year's eve party in the
Adolphus hotel grand ball room was described
by several members as the most enpoyable
affair in recent times. It was not
too crowded and there were no speeches
or a set program. First was the Smorgasbord
dinner with cocktails. Hyman Charninsky
of that well-known theatrical family and his
orchestra provided the music. Gov. Beauford
Jester was a special guest. Barker Charley
Jordan, radio executive and announcer,
highlighted the Cotton Bowl contest in advance
by introducing coaches of the SMU
and Oregon teams. The party ended early
in 1949 and many had at least five hours
sleep before starting the football trek.
While there were likely other exhibitors
here for the big game, only a few were seen
among the 68,000 fans. They were Lance
UNITED THEATRES SERVICE CORPORATION
Confidential Booking & Buying
There Is a reason why . . . many large and small
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Let us, without obligation give you complete information,
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3rd Floor Film Bldg. Telephone Riverside 9276
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JOHN C. GREER
Davis, mayor of Rotan and owner of the
Majestic there; Posey Williams of Munday,
Tom Hooser of Seymour, Hiram Parks of
Brownfield, George Likens of Abilene, J. F.
Jones of Palestine. J. Y. Robb of Big Spring,
Howard Hodge of Midland and A. W. Lilly
of Commerce.
There were a number of Variety Club barkers,
both local and visitors, who had tickets
to the game but didn't use them, electing
to carry on. gin rummy games at the club
rooms. They decided traffic to the Bowl was
too great. In fact, hundreds could not file
in by kickoff time.
Raymond Cornes of Farmersville was on
Row, among the first 1949 customers for distributors
and equipment firms. He didn't go
to the game, but had a ticket which was
quickly taken by his son Ray jr. C. J. Otts
of Royse City was another early shopper.
Edward H. Wolk, Chicago manufacturer
and distributor of projector parts, was here
calling on equipment dealers . . . Sonny G.
Martini, who recently purchased the Isle
Theatre in Galveston, writes that he is a
nephew and not a son of the late A. Martini,
as a recent new item read.
Sonny has long
since relinquished any active connection in
the operation of downtown Galveston theatres
controlled by Interstate. He has to do
only with two Negro theatres, the Dixie and
Carver, and the Isle, a subsequent run in the
business section.
K. N. Greer, former partner with Robb &
Rowley in the Palace and Texas theatres in
Cisco, writes that he is ready to get back in
the business and is seeking a theatre manager's
job. He was an exhibitor for many
years.
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Distributors for America's Leading Manufacturers of Motion Picture Theatre Equipment
BOXOFTICE :: January 8, 1949 105

. . . Bob
SAN ANTONIO
the Women's league recently . . .
Lee Aronstein, wife of the manager of by Steve Broidy. president of Allied Artists
fj[ra.
the Palace, was elected vice-president
Hope was to appear here at the
Red
of
Mark Holstein,
Municipal auditorium January 9 . . .
River Dave recently played the Rialto. Cuero,
U-I sales lepresentative for south
to a big turnout, according to Manager Monroe.
Texas, returned from a trip to Milwaukee
He was selected as the firts live talent
where he reported knee-deep snow. Holstein
Leon Glasscock's
New Stanley in Luling.
attraction for the opening of
spent the New Year holiday in the lower Rio
Grande valley with his wife and relatives . . .
Walter Weins, Eagle Lion salesman in this
territory, was here from Dallas.
McEnery has leased a big tract of land near
found on Poteet and now oil has been his
Les J. Ketner, tradepaper correspondent,
land . . .
Martha Davis, former secretary to Interstate
went to Austin for the New Year
W.
City Manager George Watson, left for celebration and to visit J. Bauerfiend,
Hollywood and a screen test promised her linotype operator in the capitol city.
€

I
Changes by Griffith
A,l,i
Finis Stilwell
Okla.
Affect 11 Managers
LUBBOCK, TEXAS — Announcements of
numerous managerial transfers, promotions
and other changes affecting
personnel of
Griffith Consolidated
Theatres. Inc.. were released
through the affiliated
Lindsey Theatres.
Inc., of Lubbock,
this week. Four affect
personalities well
known in Lubbock.
Finis Stilwell, acting
manager here the
past year, takes over
the management of
Griffith theatres in
J. B. Rhea comes to Lubbock from Norman.
Okla.
Clark Abbott, Lubbock manager for several
years, has been given a one-year extension
in leave of absence because of ill health.
C. B. "Brownie" Akers, former Lubbock
manager and now assistant general manager
of Griffith Consolidated, will continue in the
services of Robert S. Kerr, former governor
and new U.S. senator from Oklahoma. He
will continue as a director in the Griffith
company and retains his interest in theatres
at Hobart. Okla.
Other changes, announced by C. O. Fulgham
for Griffith, follow:
John Kniseley, from Ada to Norman as
manager.
Clyde Young, from Pampa to Clebum, Tex.,
his former home.
Paul West, from Altus, Okla., to Pampa.
Mac Wood, from Seminole to Altus, Okla.,
as manager.
Bill Hurd. from Cleburne to Seminole as
manager.
Cecil Hudson, from the Rialto Theatre,
Oklahoma City, to Drumright, Okla., as manager.
The new Rialto manager has not been
announced.
R. D. Shasta, acting manager at Picher,
Okla.. succeeding Ruben Rankin, resigned.
New Lubbock manager Rhea, now 35, attended
public schools and Texas Technological
college here. Starting with the Lindsey
theatres, he has been assistant manager or
manager at Wellington, Cuero and Pampa,
Tex., and Enid, Elk City, Chickasha and Norman.
Okla. He was in the army two years,
H rying with the ground forces in the Philippines
attaining the rank of sergeant.
Stilwell has been with Griffith or affiliates
nine years.
Morganton Theatre Contractor Named
MORGANTON. N. C—Construction of a
$100,000 theatre is expected to get under way
here with the E. P. Dale Construction Co.
of Morganton in charge. The theatre will
be erected on South Green street, F. W.
Davis, one of the owners, revealed
As Art Director for "That Kiss'
Preston Ames has been set as art director
for Metro's "That Midnight Kiss."
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JACKSONVILLE—Work has been started
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area for Ben J. Phillips, realtor. The theatre,
which is a part of a store block construction,
will be leased to Jacksonville interests.
H. S. Brownett is contractor; William H. Marshall,
architect. The 1,000-seat house will be
fireproof.
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107

Edifor Champions Teresa Wright
MIAMI—The Miami Herald published the
following editorial in a recent issue: "If producer
Sam Goldwyn wants to fire movie
starlet Teresa Wright, that's his business.
He can fire all of his stars if he wants to.
But Goldwyn is risking public ire when he
cancels a star's contract because she wants
ON THE COAST IT HAS
ALWAYS BEEN
MOTILVJ
JUS HYDE ST.
.SAM FRANCISCO. CAllF.f
1^1 CI co
TRAILERS FOR ALL PURPOSES
to keep her film life and her home life
separate.
"Goldwyn says that Miss Wright did not
cooperate' in publicizing her pictures. Miss
Wright counters that a film company has no
right to jeopardize the private life of an
actress.
"Goldwyn, in our opinion, is several years
behind the times. In the adolescent days
of movies public interest in film people was
fanned and fed with scandal, loves and domestic
secrets of the big names. Hollywood
created myths and planted publicity to build
up an actor for a particular part.
"But a few years ago, when movies became
more grown up. certain top bracket
stars discovered that they did not have tc
bare their private lives and literally open
their homes to the public to hold their jobs.
A male player did not lose his boxoffice appeal
when the public discovered he was the
father of four and getting bald. Female
sirens remained glamorous on the screen,
without racing to divorce courts and creating
copy for scandal sheets. They could be alluring
and good wives and mothers, too.
"The public likes this change from the old
false-front Hollywood. Making movies is a
job. just like selling groceries or building
tires.
"If an actor or actress has ability, if a
picture is well made, the fans will buy tickets
without bothering about the star's personal
history. Unsavory records may hurt boxoffice
appeal, however. If a star lacks ability
and the picture is no good, publicity wont
make either a smash hit.
"The general public, we believe, will be
more likely to take sides with Miss Wright
than with Goldwyn. Movies have come of
age, and should have left their juvenile
foolishness behind them. Grow up. Sam."
New Palms Treats Kids
DUNEDIN. FLA.— All children of the community
under 14 were invited to be guests
of the new Palms Theatre the day before
Christmas. In cooperation with the Dunedin
Chamber of Commerce, children were invited
to attend the 10 o'clock matinee and see
"National Velvet" and three cartoons. In addition
every child was given a box of popcorn.
Gordon Bennett is manager.
Toy Program in Sebring
SEBRING. FLA.—The Christmas toy program
sponsored by the Lions club and management
of the Florida Theatre, brought in
a wide range of toys which were distributed
among needy children on Christmas morning.
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108
January 8, 1949

Begin Construction
Of Shopping Center
CHARLOTTE—The Good Construction Co.
has begun work on the nine-store-and-atheatre
shopping center being erected at
Selwyn and Brandywine avenues by Herman
B. Meiselman and expected to be near completion
within six months.
The center w.'ll be set back from the street
with a 30-foot wide strip allowed for parking
space. Additional parking space for theatre
patrons will be arranged at the rear of the
center.
The buildings, planned by Charlotte architect
Charles W. Connelly, will be of brick
and steel construction and will be fireproof.
The theatre, which will be operated as a
second run house, will have 600 seats, will be
air conditioned and will have a large stage.
The entrance will lead to the mezzanine and
patrons will walk down to orchestra seats.
The center will be known as the Colony
Shopping center and the theatre will be
named the Colony. Meiselman operates one
theatre here, the Center, which has been
open for three months. He also operates
the Strand theatres in Waynesville. Rockingham
and Payetteville, the Manor in Wilmington
and the Ritz in Fayetteville and has
completed plans for a theatre to be built in
Kinston and to be called the Strand.
He also has property here where he plans
to build a Negro theatre but construction
will not begin on that project for a few
months. Architects' plans for the structure
have been completed.
Jacksonville Riverside
Added to R. E. Beck Chain
JACKSONVILLE—Richard E. Beck, owner
of the Arcade and Cloud theatres in St.
Cloud, has added another house to his
Florida chain, the Riverside Theatre here,
which he has secured on a long term lease.
The 900-seater will be remodeled and air
conditioning and pushback seats will be installed
in the $100,000 program.
General offices of the organization are
in Kissimmee, and management of the new
house will be under the direction of Pete
Lucas. Beck owns, in addition to the two
theatres in St. Cloud, the Drive Theatre at
Daytona Beach and a double drive-in now
under construction near here.
Theatre Amateur Show
Success at Montgomery
MONTGOMERY—An amateur show every
Saturday night at the Clover Theatre here,
with S30 prize money, is meeting with remarkable
success, according to Hardie Kent,
house manager. The Montgomery Examiner
publicized one of the contests with a threecolumn
cut and feature story, asserting:
"It's all a family affair and everybody has
fun whether junior wins or not. Judging from
the audience demand and appreciation, these
events are going to be a community feature
at the theatre for a long time to come."
Harry Greenfield Dies
GRENADA, MISS.—Harry Greenfield, 58-
year-old manager of the Grenada Theatre,
died recently. He was a native of Washington.
D. C.. and was well known throughout
the midsouth.
George C. Hoover of Paramount Circuit
Renamed Miami Variety Chief Barker
Officers and members of the crew of Variety Tent 33, left to right, front row: Alfred
Weiss jr.; Don Lanning, property master; William Shayne, fixer; George C. Hoover,
re-elected chief barker; Arthur Schwartz, dough guy; Richard Sachsel and Edward
N. Claughton. Back row: Dan Fitch, second assistant chief barker; Robert Alander;
Mitchell Wolfson, re-elected first assistant chief barker; Paul Bruun and Al Wilkie.
MIAMI—George C. Hoover, general manager
for the Paramount circuit, unanimously
was re-elected chief barker of Tent 33 for
1949 at the initial meeting of the newlychosen
crew of the Miami Variety Club.
Mitchell Wolfson, president of Wometco
Theatres, was re-elected first assistant chief
barker. Other 1949 officers named: Dan
Fitch, second assistant chief barker: Arthur
Schwartz, dough guy; Don Lanning, property
master, and William Shayne, fixer.
Crew members for 1949, elected at a previous
meeting of the club's full membership,
are Alfred Weiss jr., Lanning, Shayne
Schwartz, Richard Sachsel, Edward N.
Claughton, Fitch. Robert Alander, Wolf-
Permit Okayed Despite
Protests in New Iberia
NEW IBERIA, LA.—A building permit for
a theatre in the 500 block of Hopkins street
has been ordered for Gilbert Romero of Lafayette.
Order for the permit was signed by
Judge James D. Simon of the 16th judicial
district in St. Martinville who instructed
Mayor Armand Viator to issue the permit.
Material for construction has been on location
for the past several months but the
building permit was held up by residents
of Hopkins street who objected to its issuance.
Judge Wilmot Dalferes represented
Romero.
Airer Will Open Soon
ST. CLOUD, FLA.—An open-air theatre
has been built on Highway 192, two miles
west of St. Cloud, and is ready for opening.
Two features are scheduled nightly, at 7
and 9 p. m.
Vaughan Monroe in Memphis
MEMPHIS—The Vaughan Monroe orchestra
and the Moon Maids and Moon Men will
appear on the stage of the Warner Theatre
January 21. J. H. McCarthy, manager, announces.
The stage show will be presented
five times during the day with a feature film.
son, Paul Bruun and Al Wilkie. Miami delegates
to the Variety Clubs International convention
in San Francisco next spring will
be Schwartz and Fitch. Alternates are Sachsel
and Lanning.
In a report to the membership at the election
meeting. Chief Barker Hoover announced
that the young club, in its first year
and a half of existence, raised and dispersed
more than $70,000 to the various greater
Miami charities. Included in this sum is the
recent gift of $20,000 to the south Florida
Children's hospital now under construction
in Coral Gables. A proposal to have Variety
underwrite this hospital project in its entirety
will be voted on by the membership of
Tent 33 early this year.
Bijou Circuit Opens
Gem in New Orleans
NEW ORLEANS—Bijou Amusement Co.'s
fourth and newest New Orleans theatre, the
Gem, opened recently to a capacity crowd.
Located at Thalia and Broad streets, the
850-seat colored house was constructed at a
cost of $160,000 and ranks among the finest
theatres in the south, according to Bijou
executives Evan Sprott and Joe Zaro. both
of whom came to the opening from Bijou's
home office in Nashville. W. J. Roesch, former
manager of Bijou's Ritz here, will manage
the new house. Joe Gordon, former Ace
Theatre manager, will succeed Roesch as Ritz
manager. Evan Sprott jr.. son of Bijou executive
Evan Sprott, will manage the Ace
Theatre. Young Sprott returned from the
armed services last year and until he assumed
the managership of the Ace was assistant to
Harry Moser, Palace manager.
Smithville Has Theatre
SMITHVILLE, GA IKS and
selected short subjects are being shown twice
a week, on Friday and Saturday nights, at
the Simpson hotel. The new theatre is being
operated by George T. Burton jr.
BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949
109

New Surf in Palm Beach
Is Launched by Tellco
PALM BEACH—Approximately 1.000 persons
witnessed the opening of the new Surf
Theatre, highlighted by a ribbon-cutting
ceremony, taking of newsreel pictures and a
radio broadcast. Herbert Scheftel, president
of Tellco, Inc.; Alfred G. Burger, vice-president,
and Manager Gerald Schumm greeted
guests. The entire theatre from front door
to stage was a mass of flowers.
The building is fireproof masonry and steel,
and was designed by Frederick G. Seelman,
architect. It features a marble front, a triangular
marquee with silhouette plastic letters,
and a two-story high pylon containing
the name of Surf in bright red and blue neon
lighting. One of the dominating notes is the
entrance arcade. The floor is an attractive
checker pattern and the walls are lined with
poster frames containing soft concealed
lights. A marble wainscoting adds dignity
to the spot.
The custom-built refreshment stand is in
the foyer, and includes a soft-drink dispenser.
The architect's concept for the interior was
to create the impression of looking into a
picture, therefore the proscenium arch was
designed and detailed with a large framed
moulding. Pastel shades of lavender and rose
have been used on walls and ceiling. Stage
curtains are deep red and carpets are green,
gray and red. Kroehler Push-Back seats and
RCA projection and sound and hearing aids
were installed. There is a turntable in the
projection room which will enable the operator
to play classical music during intermissions.
Manager Schumm has been associated witn
Tellco since 1939 and has managed theatres
for the company in Buffalo, New York, Detroit,
Denver and Seattle.
Dade City, Fla., Pasco
Opened by Carl Floyd
DADE CITY. FLA.—The new Pasco Theatre
has been opened under the direction of
Carl Floyd of Haines City, owner of the
Floyd theatres. The building, 50x135 feet, is
of concrete and steel with white stucco finish
on side walls. The modernistic front
has a beige background for letters and dubonnet
tiling. Fifteen-inch transparent letters
will spell out picture titles on the marquee.
Much neon lighting is used on the
front
H. F. Ragsdale of Atlanta, theatre decorator,
created distinctive color effects In the
foyer with doors and wainscoting of birch
and the ceiling centered with a large blue
dome encircled with indirect lights to produce
a sky effect.
Opening off the foyer are the cry room,
the restrooms and the manager's office. The
standee rail at the back of the auditorium
is of glass brick with blue fluorescent lighting
inside the brick.
The ten-foot stage is equipped with a loud
speaker and curtains in wood and copper
tones. Indirect lights which may be turned
upon the curtains are controlled in the projection
room. Wall lights in the auditorium
are of modernistic design with blended
changeable color effects. The floor here is
covered with Mohawk carpet while elsewhere
all floors are of tile.
The projection room is of concrete and
steel construction with a steel door.
Lighted parking space is provided on an
adjoining lot. The building was constructed
at a cost of approximately $115,000, has a
seating capacity of 803. and will be managed
by John M. Jones jr. He has been
managing the Crescent Theatre, which will be
closed.
Jefferson Launches
Birmingham Carver
BIRMINGHAM—The new Carver Theatre,
a $265,000 house for Negroes, held its formal
opening on Christmas day. Paul A. Engler,
president of Jefferson Amusement Co., said
the 1.000-seat house is one of the best equipped
Negro theatres in the south. It is all new
from top to bottom. Engler said.
Features of the house include attractive
lounges and restrooms on the main floor, a
brilliant marquee with glass brick, and yearround
Carrier air conditioning. The theatre
also has Voice of the Theatre sound, Brenkert
projectors and a modern plastic screen.
Paul Engler jr. is manager. The circuit
also operates the Famous. Frolic. Champion
and Eighth Avenue theatres here.
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BOXOFTICE :: January 8, 1949 111

. . The
.
.
. . The
C H A R L
OTTE
l^ellir .luanita Simmons of Warner Bros, was
married recently in Pritchard Memorial
Baptist church to Frank Norville Harton .
Betty Blackwelder. head of the accounting
department at Exhibitors Service, was married
to Carl Patterson jr. recently in the
ARP church. Patterson is the son of the
Columbia office manager here.
The Plaza, suburban house in Greenville.
S. C, will open February 22. It represents
a $200,000 investment by Plaza Theatres. Inc..
the principal stockholders of which also are
interested in the Clemson in Clemson and
the Jefferson in Pickens, S. C. C. H. Morgan
is president and general manager. Exhibitors
Service will do the booking and
buying Community in Greenwood,
S. C, will open January 15. Greenwood is a
milling village and the theatre is owned by
Gus Mehan. Booking and buying will be done
by Exhibitors Service.
A new bank will be opened in Hemingway.
S. C. in January. It will be known as
the Anderson State bank and B. B. Anderson
of Mullins will be president. Anderson
also operates the Anderson circuit with
headquarters in Mullins. S. C. ... In a daily
column Sho 'Nuf, written by Emery Wister,
Charlotte News film editor, he reviews "The
Plunderers." He concludes his article saying:
"Forrest Tucker gave Cameron a run for his
money for acting honors. Ilona Massey and
Adrian Booth are lovely to look at and a
guy named Emery Wister is sensational in
a 15-second bit at the end of the show. The
dirty scoundrel is a member of a lynch mob
that does its best to pitch a necktie party
for Tucker and his cohorts. Watch for him.
He has a tight hold on the Massey girl."
Audie Murphy, star in Monogram's "Bad
Boy." will appear in eight midwestern cities.
Checking Suits Filed
Against Colonial Inc.
ASHEVILLE. N. C. — Six separate percentage
suits were filed today by RKO, Columbia.
Universal, Paramount, United Artists
and Warner Bros, against George D,
Carpenter, J. Vernon Benfield. J. S. Hinson
and Colonial Theatres. Inc., in district court
for the western district of North Carolina.
Each complaint alleges a conspiracy to
defraud by submitting false reports on percentage
pictures and each plaintiff seeks
punitive damages in addition to actual damages.
The theatres involved, all in North Carolina:
Colonial, Valdese: Canova, Canover;
Main, Granite Falls; Carolina and Rivoli,
Hickory: Louisburg, Louisburg: Patovi, Madison:
Pickwick, Mayodan: Carolina and Rogers,
Shelby, and Main, Taylorsville.
Capitol Theatre Reopens
ST. PETERSBURG—"Joan of Arc" will be
the seasonal roadshow attraction at the
Capitol Theatre, according to an announcement
by Frank H. Bell, district manager of
the Florida State Theatres. The Capitol,
which celebrated its gala opening Christmas
day with a showing of "Goldwyn Follies,"
will operate on the continuous run
1 policy starting at o'clock each afternoon.
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Continues as Family Cook
The role of Dore, the family cook, will again
be taken by character actress, Marietta Canty,
in Paramount's "Dear Wife," sequel to "Dear
Ruth."
NEW ORLEANS
Toe Bluestone has resigned as Film Classics
salesman in this territory. No successor has
been named, and Joe has not decided on his
future plans . . . R. F. Fulton has closed his
Doyline Theatre, Doyline. La., until early
spring. The theatre ceased operations Thursday
(6> . . . Owner Allan R. Curil has closed
the Rex Theatre at Foley. Ala.
The .Bamboo Theatre, the only colored
house in Monroeville, Ala., has been closed
permanently . Strand Theatre. Poplarville,
Miss., owned by B. V. Sheffield, recently
Grover Parsons,
was destroyed by fire . . .
EL southern division manager, was a visitor
Henry Meyer, who operates
from Atlanta . . .
the Meyer and Harlem theatres in Biloxi. was
on the Row discussing product, for his newly
constructed downtown Biloxi house. Other
visitors included Mrs. E. C. Brandenburg,
Harlem Theatre, Lake Providence, La., and
Charlie Levy, Harlem Theatre, Thibodaux, La.
Write for literature today or see your Motiograph dealer.
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January 8. 1949

Roy
Georgia Theatre Co.
Will Collect Dimes
ATLANTA—Georgia Theatre Co. situations
will back the March of Dimes 1949 drive
with theatre collections, according to William
K. Jenkins, president. In a recent letter
to his managers, the executive expressed conviction
that theatre collections have meant
the difference between useful or hopelessly
crippled lives to numbers of polio patients.
"Here in Georgia," he wrote, "the Georgia
chapter of the foundation has taken proper
medical care of all suffering from infantile
paralysis who were not financially able to
provide for themselves.
"With these thoughts in mind, won't you
please give full cooperation to the March of
Dimes campaign, January 24-31, inclusive,
•passing the hat' at all performances on
as many days as you consider advisable."
The theatre company president served as
chairman of the foundation's Georgia chapter
from June 1945 through May 1947 and
conducted the statewide campaign in 1945,
preceding his tenure of office as chairman.
Last year he was presented a Certificate of
Distinguished Achievement by Robert F.
Maddox sr., a past chairman, on behalf of
the Georgia chapter. He continues to serve
on the board of the Georgia chapter.
Yule Fete in Shreveport
SHREVEPORT—An annual Christmas party
given by the Don Theatre management for
employes was attended by approximately 100
persons. Guests included officials and personnel
of the Don and Glenwood theatres
here and the Davis Theatre in Bossier City,
and their wives. Assisting at the fete were
Don George. Darrell George, Doyle Maynard
and M. V. McAfee, Don manager. After the
party the guests saw a preview of "The
Paleface."
To Pilot Triend Irma'
George Marshall will pilot "My Friend
Irma" for Paramount.
M&T HOSTS 300 AT PARTY—Some 300 employes and guests of the Martin &
Thompson circuit converged on Macon, Ga., for the 16th annual employes Christmas
party recently. Innovation of the affair was the introduction of the M&T Teen-Age
club, at which all teen-age employes were entertained from 6 until 8:30 in a private
club room equipped with a juke box, coke bar and an official hostess. Games, jitterbug
contests and other activities were enjoyed by the teen-agers until time for the banquet
to start. Pictured above are company officials and their guests at the affair. Left to
right: Hal Allan, Macon Telegraph managing editor; M. F. Brice, Pal Amusement Co.,
Vidalia, Ga.; Mrs. E. D. Martin; E. D. Martin; Mayor Lewis B. Wilson of Macon; J. H.
Thompson ; Mrs. Thompson ; Martin -jr. and Mae Hightower.
Calhoun House Renamed
CALHOUN. GA.—The old Gem Theatre
here has been changed to the Martin, following
the recent remodeling of the outside
front of the house. The old marquee was
torn down and replaced with new attraction
boards forming a V and extending toward the
street. A new neon theatre sign was also
added.
New Darlington to Open
DARLINGTON. S. C — The Darlington
Theatre will open here Monday (10), according
to Sam Irvin, president of Darlington
Theatres,
Inc.
$620,000 Paid for Plaza
By Florida State Chain
ST. PETERSBURG—The sales price of the
Plaza Theatre block, which was not revealed
at the time of the sale, has been disclosed.
Florida State Theatres paid heirs to
the George S. Gandy sr. estate $620,000 for
the property.
Free Holiday Films Given
DERMOTT, ARK.—Free holiday films were
shown at the Dermott Theatre through the
cooperation of the theatre, the Chamber of
Commerce and the Rotary club.
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BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949

. . . New
. . Jack
. . Charlie
. . Mr.
. . "The
. .
ATLANTA
gob Hope and his company, including Doris
Day and Les Brown and his orchestra
will appear at the Fox Theatre here January
18. The weekly broadcast by Hope will originate
from the stage of the house . . . Grover
Parsons, Eagle Lion district manager, left for
a trip in southern territory . . . Howard
Sabe. formerly with Columbia Pictures here
and now with Everett Enterprises, Charlotte,
was a visitor.
.Mrs. Opal Giles, Kay Film Exchanges, was
back from a vacation in Florida . . . Merritt
Davis, Republic Pictures branch manager, was
host to his staff at a yuletide party . . . Work
has been started on a drive-in to be erected
by Ward Wright at Gadsden. Ala. . . . Erma
Marshall, head of the Eagle Lion branch accounting
department, returned from New
York . . . Leonard Allen. Paramount Pictures
exploiteer. was a visitor.
.
party for his staff . . .
Wallace Smith, former manager of the
Brookhaven Theatre. Brookhaven. Ga., visited
friends on Filmrow Barrett,
Monogram salesman in Florida, returned
with his wife to their home in Lakeland
after a holiday' visit here . Lester,
National Screen Service, gave a Christmas
Jack Van Lloyd, formerly
with the Weiss theatres in Savannah
and Macon, Ga., and now with Park-In Theatres,
Camden, N. J., was a visitor.
R. P. Davis, formerly a salesman for several
local exchanges and now living in Panama
City. Fla., visited here with his wife
employes at Benton Bros. Film
Express include Lois Pruitt, Ha Cook. Francis
Heard and Mary Leather . and Mrs.
James Reeves of Jacksonville, Fla., visited
Erma Marshall of the Eagle Lion staff.
Capt. George D. Davidson of Grenier Field,
Rhodes . Red Shoes" has been
booked into the Peachtree Art Theatre for
a ten-week run.
Filmrow visitors included P. L. Taylor
and H. Bishop. Dixie. Columbus, and Sidney
Laird and L. J. Duncan, Al-Dun Amusement
Co., West Point. Ga.; Nat Bernstein, Dixie,
Miami, and M. C. Moore, Jacksonville. Fla,
and Jay Solomon, Chattanooga. Tenn. .
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Durmeyer returned
from a visit to New Orleans.
Atlanta Gross Drops
With Rainy Weather
ATLANTA — Cold, rainy weather forced
grosses in local first runs to slightly below
the average mark. High spot for the week
was "Words and Music" at Loew's Grand
with 99 per cent and "The Paleface" at the
Fox with 95.
(Average Is 100)
_.
Fox—The Paleface (Para! _ 95
Loews Grand—Words and Music I.iG.'.'i 99
Paramount— Belle Starr's Daughter UD'h-Fox) 90
Roxy—Yellow Sky (20th-Fox). 2nd d. I wk 91
Tower—Flight Lieutenant (Col) More Than a Secretary
(Col), reissues 93
N. H., visited Mr. and Mrs. L. Holliman . . .
Harris Robinson, president of Drive-in Theatres,
Inc., was host to managers from Georgia,
Florida and North Carolina at home
offices of the company here. Visiting managers
included L. L. Theimer. Dennis Scruggs,
Horace Denning, Eugene Skinner, Joe Lipson,
Carl Washam, W. G. Meier, O. C. O'Farrell
and R. J. Reynolds jr.
Films playing here currently include
"Flight Lieutenant" and "More Than a
Secretary" at the Tower, "The Paleface" at
the Fox, "Belle Starr's Daughter" at the
Paramount, "Yellow Sky" at the Roxy. "A
Southern Yankee" at the Grand, "The Red
Shoes" at the Peachtree Art Theatre and
"Kiss the Blood Off My Hands" at the
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. . . The
. . Paramount
. . Charles
. . . Claughton
. . The
. . John
. . Freddie
Publicist Fred Ford
Dies in New Orleans
MEMPHIS—Fred Ford, one of the south"s
best known theatremen, is dead at the age
FRED FORD
of 62. Ford, publicity manager for RKO's
Memphis and New Orleans offices, died in
a New Orleans hotel January 2. Death was
due to a heart attack.
Ford had been with RKO for ten years.
During part of that time he worked out of
the Milwaukee office. Born in Stokes, N. Y.,
he came to Memphis in 1935 as manager of
the Malco Theatre, now called Loew's Palace.
He managed theatres in Texas and Louisiana
before coming to Memphis and had worked
as branch manager for First National Films
Co. at Little Rock.
Ford was a member of the Variety Club of
Memphis, past president, of the Civitan club
at Memphis and a former vice-president of
the Gavel club. He served during World War
I as a lieutenant. He was a member of the
Episcopal church.
Ford had gone to New Orleans for a business
conference with Terry Turner of the
RKO New York publicity department.
Retired Manager, S. E. Coffin.
Dies in Memphis Hospital
MEMPHIS—Samuel Edgar Coffin, who retired
as manager of the Princess Theatre in
September 1947 after
more than 25 years
service with theatres
operated by M. A.
Lightman and M. S.
McCord. died January
2 in Methodist hospital
at Memphis. Coffin
was 72.
Born in Iowa, Coffin
was connected with various
stock companies
and legitimate theatre
groups before going in-
S. E. Coffin t0 theatre operations.
He managed several theatres for the Lightman-McCord
interests in Arkansas before
coming to Memphis.
At the time of his retirement, Coffin was
the oldest employe of Malco Theatres. Inc.
MIAMI
^he current strike among employes in the
composing rooms of the daily papers, is a
headache to many people, including theatremen.
Deadlines for getting ad copy in have
been set ahead and copy is set up so laboriously
that occasionally there isn't time to
get it in at all except in crude form. Hal
Koplin. advertising director for Wometco,
found recently that despite getting his copy
in on time, the ad could not be made up.
He hurriedly got together a column which
was photographed and made into a cut.
All energies in the Claughton main office
these days are directed toward their new
theatre, the Circle, which is to open January
15 . and Wometco published
boxed ads in previous day's newspapers listing
the New Year's eve fare at various theatres.
There were midnight shows at eight Paramount
and ten Wometco houses.
Two approaches to western pictures are
now on exhibition here, and judging from
the holiday crowds at each theatre, neither
has much on the other in the matter of popularity.
The two pictures are "The Paleface,"
with Bob Hope and "Yellow Sky," with Gregory
Peck.
Mel Haber of Wometco's staff was to be
married January 9. The bride is Rhnda Studley
of Seldon, N. Y. . . . Dick Wanter of the
State recently was married to Thelma Miller,
a former State staffer . . . The Miracle's
confection counter has opened with Jean
Bingham in charge . . . Joe St. Thomas and
Edith Troutman have been assigned the task
of running the elaborate Drive-In concession.
Thomas formerly was assistant manager at
the
Surf.
Sympathy to Evan Bacon of the air conditioning
department on the recent death of
his father . Sympson, former
chief of service at the Cameo, is new student
assistant manager at the Strand . . . Herb
Rubin stepped up from chief of service at
the Rosetta to student assistant at the Surf.
Putting its tickets on sale a week in advance
of New Year's eve, Wometco used special
art to publicize its midnight shows. The
.
Paramount's Olympia offered a "giant
2-for-l" Christmas week show. "Good Sam"
was the screen attraction. Dean Murphy
headed the stage show Carlone
is now billed by the Olympia officially as
leader of the theatre's band. He has taken
over since Les Rhode resigned because of ill
health. Carlone has been a member of the
band for some years. Recently he received
a wire which read: "Just heard the good
news. Congratulations. Always think of you
and still love you. Keep me informed as to
what tunes you would like to have and I'll
get you anything you need. Best always."
The signer of the wire was Perry Como and
the story behind the wire is that Carlone,
while leading the orchestra at the Crystal
Slipper ballroom in Cleveland, "discovered"
and launched Como on his singing career.
Wometco took additional space in pre-
Christmas newspapers for "That last minute
gift" suggestion. A holly WTeath enclosed the
suggestion for Books of Happiness. Books of
admission coupons, redeemable at any of the
circuit's houses, were mentioned as ideas for
giving to "the maid, the mailman, the newspaper
boy." They were available in three
sizes and were on sale at all Wometco boxoffices.
The Lincoln had a special lobby
booth handy to passersby on the sidewalk.
The Boulevard Drive-in, "Wometco's
Christmas gift to Greater Miami," held open
house Christmas day for youngsters from
noon until 4 p. m. Santa Claus was present
to greet the children at this "Inspection
Fiesta," and there were free pony rides,
miniature railway rides and other activities
theatre advertising for Christmas
day was gay with appropriate art and
a carefully selected amusement schedule.
.
Newsreels ground away at a Miami Beach
hotel pool recently, when 58 3-to-6-year-old
youngsters paraded in the junior bathing
beauty contest sponsored by the Swim-for-
Health Ass'n J. Lunin, secretarytreasurer
of the teamster's Local 390, represented
Marcie Liberman, mayor of Miami
Beach, in presenting keys to the city to
Johnny Johnston, unit production manager,
and Pat Palamountain, transportation director
of the 20th-Fox company which has just
schedule was printed on a drawing of a bell
finished filming a picture here.
Lincoln's offering to holiday gaiety
continued to be Ed May at the Hammond Film producers have asked for a look at
organ. His well-selected programs were Kitty Davis' memoirs when they're finished
heard over the entire Lincoln road shopping in the spring to see if they could make a
suitable vehicle for Betty Hutton. The Davises
district on a special system of loudspeakers.
May. in person, could often be seen tearing formerly owned a night club in Miami Beach
in and out of the theatre as he attended to
swimming pool of an ocean-front
operation details and at the same time played hotel due to open soon, features a below
a stellar entertainment role himself.
water level photographic booth.
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BOXOFFICE January 8, 1949

. . has
. . . Mrs.
. . The
. . The
. . Moses
. . Dorothy
. . The
. . W.
Locally Created Goodwill Is
For Film Industry, Jenkins Says
ATLANTA— -Public relations in our industry
should be primarily on a local
basis," said William K. Jenkins, president
of Georgia Theatre Co., at a recent meeting
here with department heads.
Praising the community relationships of
his city managers both in key town- and
WILLIAM K. JENKINS
in one-house locations, the circuit president
said that more good for the industry
accrues from "on-the-spot" goodwill than
any "canned" newspaper releases or contacts
imported from the coast.
"First and foremost." he pointed out.
"comes the goodwill built by the individual
manager among his own patrons, city
and state officials. If each manager has
won local confidence and respect for himself,
his theatre and his pictures, adverse
national publicity against the industry
will fall on deaf ears in his town.
"On-the-spot public relations, fostered
carefully and sincerely, stands as a bulwark
against destructive considerations
and publicity which otherwise might be
real threats to each theatre's boxoffice and
the industry as a whole."
An example of the public
Best
relations program
followed by the Georgia circuit is
the presentation of William K. Jenkins
trophies to the outstanding back and lineman
on the University of Georgia football
team at Athens. This year, the biggest
tally of patron votes in the five-year
history of
the trophies was chalked up at
the Palace Theatre in Athens by City
Manager Dan Hill.
Theatre patrons themselves awarded the
trophies by casting ballots in a voting box
in the Palace lobby. Close to 9,000 votes
were cast, adding up to ties between quarterback
Johnny Rauch and halfback Joe
Geri and between tackle Porter Payne and
Bernie Reid. guard.
As a result of the tie, the theatre circuit
decided to present trophies to all four
grid stars in ceremonies at the Athens
Touchdown club's annual Christmas party.
The presentation garnered for the circuit
publicity in the Athens Banner Herald
reading, in part:
"Presentation of these awards by Jenkins
. become a big thing in the
public life of this city, and the popularity
of the awards was borne out by the heavy
vote."
The Georgia Theatre circuit also emphasizes
the importance of aiding the
youth of the state. Each year delegates
to the Georgia Youth Congress are guests
in circuit theatres.
This year, T H. Read, Atlanta operations
manager for the circuit, was host to some
350 high school students during the congress
sessions in Atlanta, when teen-age
boys and girls attended the Paramount
and Roxy theatres.
The Youth Congress is a state-sponsored
organization for the purpose of better
acquainting Georgia youngsters with
affairs of state. It is part of the state's
educational program to develop well-informed
citizens.
"These representative boys and girls,"
said Jenkins, "are Georgia's citizens of tomorrow.
We are proud to participate in
making their sessions memorable. Our
theatres in all locations seize every opportunity
of furthering local and state
educational aims and of aiding Georgia's
youth. I consider this phase of public relations
one of the most worthwhile that
we undertake."
MEMPHIS
The holiday slump in theatre attendance in
Memphis and adjoining trade territory
appeared to be at an end. Warner had such
a good week with "One Sunday Afternoon"
that J. H. McCarthy, manager, decided to
hold the picture for a second week. Loew's
Palace had a good opening with "Yellow Sky."
Loew's State reported terrific business with
"Words and Music." Malco was pleased with
"The Paleface."
David Flexer, Flexer Theatres, stated that
his local first run theatre, the Ritz. would
be reopened January 19 after extensive repairs
and that "Hamlet" would be shown for
an indefinite run ... A daughter, who has
been named Cynthia, was born to Robert L.
Pigue jr., booker at 20th-Fox. and Mrs. Pigue
at the Methodist hospital . . . Mike Car-
michael. former U-I manager now living in
Cleveland, was a visitor . . . Mrs. Melania
Weaver, inspector at 20th-Fox, was home ill
. . . George P. Cooper, auditor, was working
at 20th-Fox Miller, contract
clerk at 20th-Fox. also was ill . . . Lorraine
Burrus, booker stenographer, was back at
20th-Fox after an illness.
Missouri exhibitors visiting on Filmrow included
Lyle Richmond. Richmond. Senath;
Bill Kroeger. Shannon and Maxon, Portageville:
C. A. Gilliland. Cooter at Cooter and
Semo at Steele, and John Mohrstadt, Joy,
Hayti . Graco Theatre, Jacksonville,
Ark., which burned last spring, has been reopened
by B. M. Gray, owner . . . Lyle Richmond,
owner of the Missouri Theatre. Senath.
Mo., has closed this house for repairs and
redecorations . Joy Theatre, Moscow,
Tenn.. has been closed indefinitely by Everett
Boswell, owner.
Between 400 and 500 youngsters, including
about 100 inmates from St. Peter's Orphanage,
saw "Bambi" at a special showing at the
Idlewild Theatre, sponsored by the Senior
Hadassah . . . Mrs. Zula Fitzpatrick. ill about
a month, was back at work as booker at RKO
.
Fred Ford, wife of the RKO publicity
man. was recovering after an eye operation
Variety Club staged a New-
Year's dance for oarkers. their wives and
friends at its clubrooms.
A new 500-seat theatre, the Joy. will be
opened within a few weeks at West Memphis,
Ark., just across the Mississippi river from
Memphis . Sliman, who operates
the Lux at Luxora, Ark., reported that his
new house at Osceola. Ark., is about ready
to open ... A fire recently damaged the
Main Theatre at Russellville. Ark., owned by
E. A. Gillett.
NOW DISTRIBUTING
EXCLUSIVELY
LORRAINE
CARBONS
In Memphis Film Area
Write for trial trim — Stole size.
TRISTATE THEATRE SUPPLY
318 So. Second St.
Memphis. Tenn.
The Plague' for Spencer Tracy
French author Albert Camus' "The Plague"
has been purchased as a possible Spencer
Tracy vehicle for MGM.
MONARCH
THEATRE SUPPLY, Inc.
492 So. Second St.
Memphis.
Tenn.
Hi exhibitors on Filmrow included:
Joe Wofford, Eupora. Eupora: J. F. Adams,
Tate, Coldwater: Leon Roundtree, Holly at
Holly Springs, Center at Lexington and Grand
at Water Valley; J. C. Bonds. Von. Hernando;
E. L. Boggs, Varsity, Amory; Dr. L. T Lowery
.
and his son Bob, Blue Mountain College
Theatre. Blue Mountain F. Ruffin sr..
Rut fin Amusements Co., Covington, Tenn.,
was a visitor.
From Arkansas came L. B. Clark. Rialto
and Majestic. El Dorado: Floyd Peek, Garland.
Little Rock; Orris Collins, Capitol and
Majestic, Paragould: William G. Clark. Alamo,
Pine Bluff, and Mr. and Mrs. Roy Cochran,
Juroy, North Little Rock.
BOXOFFICE jai iiy 8. 1949

I
brought
i
j
to
. KMMK
Dilatory Exhibitors
Pay Tax Penalties
TORONTO—Ontario exhibitors who have
their monthly amuse-
been dilatory in filing
ment tax returns will have to pay more
promptly or pay additional amounts. Without
warning the provincial treasurer imposed
a penalty of 5 per cent when payments
are not made within the ten-day limit
after the end of the month. The delinquents
were not brought to court but were merely
notified to add the charge to the returns
the following month.
for
It was admitted in theatre circles that
some exhibitors had been slow in making the
tax payments over the successive months but
imposition of the "fines" without warning
protests. Some theatres found they
had to pay additional amounts of approximately
$25 while others were assessed a few
dollars.
Attention has also been drawn to a clause
which provides a penalty of 1 per cent of a
; month's collectible tax in the case of incomplete
reports to the treasury department.
It is understood that no penalties In this
connection have yet been imposed.
The Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n of Ontario
has made representations to the government
that letters should have been sent out
to all theatres to the effect that, now that
the procedure had become routine, that a
strict policy would be enforced with respect
any delays in monthly returns. The Ontario
tax is a 20 per cent levy on the face
value of admissions.
Allan G. Ritchie, 62, Dies;
In Film World 29 Years
TORONTO—Allan G. Ritchie, 62, manager
of the Bloor Theatre, died following a heart
attack December 25 at his home there. Ritchie
had been associated with the motion picture
business 29 years. He was a native of
Montreal, and he lived for several years in
western Canada, where he was with Paramount
Film Services, Ltd. For four years
he lived in Sudbury, where he was manager
of the Capitol Theatre. Going to Toronto
thirteen years ago, he had served as manager
of the Alhambra Theatre as well as the
Bloor Theatre.
The death of Ritchie was the third to
occur in recent weeks among Ontario theatremen.
Jack Nelson, an alderman of North
Bay and veteran manager of the Capitol
in that city, died suddenly, as did J. O. Scott,
proprietor of independent theatres at Weston
and Prescott. Scott had been prominent as
the reeve of Weston and in war-veteran
having served with the Canadian Expeditionary
circles,
Forces during World War
I.
Brampton Manager Seeks
To Check Theatre Vandals
^trf YOUR CHILD
nDO THIS
^HOME?
\ * VANDALISM
MUST STOP
ODEon THEATRES
HAVE SWHT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS
TO CREATE THE FINEST IN COMFORT
f.FDMHIHtt H» YWW CDKYENIENCE
NUND DEFACING » DAMAGING
AW PART
A EQUIPMENT & BUILDING
BRAMPTON, ONT—In an effort to stop
seat slashing and other forms of youthful
vandalism in the Odeon and Roxy Theatres
here, manager Keith Wilson has set up a
lobby display which is attracting much attention
locally. The local newspaper is cooperating
with Wilson by carrying news stories
of the vandals and reports of their punishments
as well as editorials denouncing
the practice of wilfully damaging property.
Local schools have requested use of the display.
Some critics objected to the strong lead line
of the display, "Would your child do this at
home?" Wilson reports, but in his opinion,
"nothing is too strong that will stop the
damage that is being done to theatres all
over the country by young vandals and teenagers."
To Write Crime Story
Crane Wilbur will write and direct an
original crime story which Aaron Rosenberg
will produce for Universal-International.
Launch Fort William
Paramount Theatre
FORT WILLIAM—The new Paramount
Theatre, latest addition to the FPC circuit,
was opened here December 27 with ceremonies
led by Charles Cox, mayor of Port
Arthur.
The new 950-seat house is equipped with
pushback seats, latest model projection and
sound equipment and various public conveniences
and facilities.
Officials of the FPC circuit who attended
the opening included J. J. Fitzgibbons, president;
R. W. Bolstead, vice-president; Jules
Wolfe, eastern maintenance manager; L. I.
Bearg, western general manager; E. A. Zorn,
prairie supervisor, and John Ferguson, from
the Winnipeg office.
Charlie Dilley, former manager of the
Colonial, is manager of the new theatre.
Frank Sabitini. formerly assistant manager
at the Colonial, is assistant to Dilley.
George Seabrook, former assistant at the
Orpheum, now is manager at the Colonial,
and Jimmy Dundas, formerly assistant at
the Lyceum, has been appointed his assistant.
FPC 25-Year Club Banquet
To Be on Regional Basis
TORONTO—Famous Players Canadian
Corp. has adopted a new policy with respect
to the annual banquets of its 25 Year club
to which members are invited for the initiation
of employes who have qualified through
a quarter century of continuous service.
Under the new plan the annual gatherings,
scheduled for late in January, will be broken
into regional meetings for the convenience
of members and candidates. In the past the
functions have been held mostly in Toronto,
Winnipeg and Vancouver to which the veteran
employes sometimes have traveled considerable
distances. The 1949 meetings will
be spread among small zones where new
members will be locally available. President
J. J. Fitzgibbons, Vice-President R. W. Bolstad,
eastern Manager Morris Stein and western
Manager Larry Bearg will officiate at
the
various gatherings.
Fire Drills Necessary
TORONTO—W. D. McPhee, chief provincial
theatre inspector, has warned theatre
proprietors that they must conduct staff fire
drills regularly, particularly after changes
In personnel have been made. Managers have
also been directed to stage fire tests In conjunction
with Saturday morning movie club
shows. It was brought out that exhibitors
have not reported theatre fires to the inspection
branch as required by the regulations.
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949
ATTEND ODEON OPENING—Present for the recent opening of the newest theatre
in the Odeon chain at Brantford, Ont., were, from left to right: Gordon Cullen,
manager of the Brantford Odeon; Ernie Moule, manager of Famous Players Capitol
there; Harry Dahn, district manager for Odeon Theatres, and Archie J. Laurie,
public relations head for Odeon.
117

. . Rusty
. . . Exhibitors
. . . Jimmy
. . Norman
. .
. . The
. . The
January
V A N C O UVER
/-\n the sick list over the holidays were
Dave Borland. Dominion Theatre manager,
and Marvin Proudlock of Warner Bros,
Hellusen, Orpheum Theatre
staff
cashier, was recently married and has resigned
Odeon
. . .
to become a housewife circuit its invited mainland managers and
head office staff to a holiday party at the
Hotel Vancouver. Howard Boothe, British
Columbia district manager, was emcee. Other
parties were the JARO-Eagle Lion affair on
Filmrow and the Odeon Hastings party at
which the staff gave Manager Al Mitchell
a cocktail table and his wife a corsage. Employes
received a bonus of two weeks pay.
"The R*d Shoes" was to be given its first
Canadian showing Thursday i7> in the
Vogue Theatre here. There was to be one
performance only with all seats reserved at
$2.50 for the preview. The performance
marked the opening of the annual March of
Dimes fund for children's hospitals. Entire
proceeds will be turned over to the March of
Dimes fund for kiddies . . . Local visitors
were Morris Beatty. Capitol, Red Deer, Alta..
and his wife on their way south for a winter
vacation; Owen Bird of the Columbia circuit,
Goldin, and Eric Williams, formerly of
the Strand, now at Warner Bros, studio in
Hollywood.
Hymie Singer, who operates the State here
and the Rio in Victoria, bought the James
Bay hotel in Victoria. He now has a chain
of four hotels, three in Vancouver and one
in Victoria. Shelia Bejay, who man iged the
Rio, now closed for extensive alterations, will
manage the James Bay hotel until the Rio
opens again, probably in April . . . Away
for the holidays were Jack Aceman. State
Theatre manager, to Hollywood; Bill Forward,
manager of Theatre Supply Co., and
his family visiting Mr. and Mrs. Myron Mc-
Leod of the Patricia Theatre. Powell River,
B. C.
A new theatre is
planned by local interests
in Vancouver's best residential district at
25th and McDonald. The theatre will be
competition to two circuit houses, the Hollywood
and Dunbar. The new situation will
seat 850 and will be ready in July . . . The
Vancouver branch of the Canadian Picture
Pioneers will have its annual dinner and
election of officers at the Hotel Vancouver
January 24.
Bill Johnson, head of the Steel-Johnson
Drive-In, left for Toronto, his home town,
to spend the winter . . . Many British Columbia
theatres were without power one night
recently when a storm blew down electric
lines. Vancouver theatres were not affected
report the consumer's dollar
over the holidays had a big section carved
out by the retail trade, leaving very little
for amusements. Grosses were away off from
a year ago.
Statistics show some 930 feature films distributed
in the Dominion during 1947, compared
to 799 in 1946. One of the reasons
for the increase was the larger number of
theatres and the fact that more foreign films
were shown . Kerridge, Australian-New
Zealand circuit operator, is expected
in British Columbia soon en route
home from a six-month visit to Great Britain.
where he met with J. Arthur Rank, a partner
in Kerridge Theatres down-under .
Special holiday kiddy shows sponsored by
neighborhood merchants proved a boon to
suburban theatres.
Wilf Moorhouse, projectionist at the Capitol.
Penticton, B. C, was given front page
mention recently when a storm disrupted
telephone and telegraph communications
from Penticton to the coast. Moorhouse used
his amateur radio transmitter, the only link
between the interior and the coast. It was
used mainly as a service for dispatcher's
orders for trains until communications were
restored the next day. Moorhouse is a member
of IATSE Local 348.
Basil Horsfall, a member of the Canadian
Picture Pioneers and senior musical conductor
of the Theatre Under the Stars here,
gave the first performance of "A Night in
Vienna." All proceeds are for the furtherance
of the AOTS boys and youth work program
Adams, manager of the Circle
Theatre, is making a name for himself as a
community booster for his work with youngsters.
He made a big tieup with local merchants
putting on a big holiday party at his
Odeon Theatre for the children, who received
presents through his Odeon Movie club.
Howard Boothe. British Columbia district
manager, pointed out Adams' promotions
all stunts to the Odeon mainland managers
at the annual party held at Hotel Vancouver
recently.
Sneak previews are proving so popular at
two chain houses here that it is reported
Screens — Arc Lamps — Rectifiers — Lenses — Carbons — Theatre Chairs
J. M. RICE & CO.
202 Canada Bldg. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Phone 25371
Everything For Your Theatre
COMPLETE SOUND
SYSTEMS
An Expert Repair Department
more houses may try them. Previews, which
have not been held since the war, were revived
in many outside towns over the holidays
and all did capacity business, circuit officials
said Famous Player Kitsilano
.
Theatre here, which has been closed for
extensive repairs, reopened in time to catch
the holiday business.
.
Jack Armstrong, manager of the Odeon at
Trail, B. C. and his wife Edna became parents
of a baby boy, their first child. Before
her marriage, Mrs. Armstrong was a member
of the Odeon district staff in Vancouver
Jimmy Durante vaudeville
show at Pacific National Exhibition showed
a loss on the books this year. The Shrine
circus brought in $20,621 net profit along
with a new attendance record and profits
from concessions and space rentals. A publie
opinion poll taken by PNE heads showed
the circus was preferred ten to one over
Durante by those who saw both shows.
The independent theatre owner is holding
his own against the circuits in the expansion
of the motion picture exhibition field in western
Canada, a recent government statistics
report showed recently. The percentage of
ownership and of boxoffice receipts has increased
proportionately for operators of one
to five theatres and for operators of more
than five. Percentage of theatres operated
by a single owner is about the same as it
was in 1938, the report shows. However,
itinerant exhibitors using 35mm equipment
were fewer in the western provinces during
1948. Theatres formerly serviced with portable
equipment in smaller communities are
now permanent with 16mm or 35mm equipment.
Two British Columbia theatremen. Howard
Fletcher of West Vancouver and E. W.
Bickle of Courtney, were defeated in a recent
election of civic officials . . . Bert Hawket,
owner of the Orpheum at Fernie, B. C,
who has been mayor of that town for the
past two years, did not contest the election
this year for business reasons.
Canadian Cameo Series
Are Resumed by ASN
TORONTO—Empire-Universal will distribute
the Canadian Cameo series, resumed by
Associated Screen News following a lapse
of several years due to war conditions. The
new schedule calls for a release of a onereel
picture every six weeks. The short subject
series were started in 1932 and 60 were
made till the war intervened.
Now available in the series are "Designed
for Swimming," "Sea Rover's Summer" and
All About Emily." the latter a film version
of a radio play about a goose produced by
the Cadanian Broadcasting Corp.
The director of the series is Gordon Sparling,
who has been with Associated Screen
News since 1930 except for three years when
he was the commanding officer of the Canadian
army film and photo unit No. 1 with
headquarters in London. He is a member of
the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and
Sciences.
The music director is Lucio Agostini, a
conductor-composer who has created a large
number of scores and orchestral arrangements
for films and radio, including two
CBC shows each week. "Stage 49' and "Curtain
Time."
BOXOFFICE
:
8. 1949

. . Offering
'Paleface' Continues
Big Toronto Earner
TORONTO—Most of the first runners
started
——
—
the New Year with screen hangovers
(holdovers i. thanks to the strong revival of
business during the holiday season. The best
grosser was "The Paleface" at the Imperial
with "The Three Musketeers" also doing well
at Loew's, both being in their second week.
The deterring factor was stormy weather and
snow-piled streets around the weekend.
(Average Is 100)
Billmore—Lulu Belle (Col) 100
Danlorth and Fairlawn—The Canterville Ghost
(SR); Huckleberry Finn (Para), reissues 100
Eglinton and Tivoh—The Return oi October (Col),
2nd wk .100
Imperial—The Paleface (Para), 2nd wk
lib
Loew's—The Three Musketeers (MGM), 2nd wk, .110
Nortown and Victoria—Goodbye Mr. Chips
(MGM), reissue, 2nd wk 95
Odeon Toronto Scott oi the Antarctic (EL) 110
Shea's—When My Baby Smiles al Me (20th-Fox),
2nd wk, 105
Uptown—You Gotta Stay Happy (U-I), 2nd wk 100
Theatre Business Swings
Upward in Calgary
CALGARY—After a final pre-Christmas
slump, theatre business started upward.
While not in the top bracket, all first runs
were in the popular class, picking up good
business. Advance sales of the New Year
midnight frolics at upped prices were at
average and were expected to jump to capacity
by the last day. A timely boost was given
the Palace evening shows with a half-hour
stage interlude presented by the local juvenile
Orpheus choir with a seasonable program of
fine choral popular ballads and yuletide songs.
Clear skies and mercury hovering around
the 30s also has been an aid. Daytime skating,
curling and nighttime hockey and social
dance events were the only serious rivals,
making little dent on boxoffice grosses.
Capitol—Hills ol Home (MGM) Very good
Grand Feudin', Fussin' and a-Fightin'
(U-I)
Very good
Palace—Two Guys From Texas (WB) Very good
Trade Rises Sharply
At Vancouver Houses
Perkins Electric Makes
Late '48 Installations
MONTREAL—The local office of Perkins
Electric Co. announces the following December
installations: Cinema Etoile. Ste.
Justine, Que.: Auditorium Theatre, Rimouski,
Que.; Carrillon Theatre. St. Felix de
Valois, Que.: Parish Hall, Temiscouata. Que.:
Normandie Theatre, Ste. Martine. Co. Chateauguay,
Que.: Figaro Theatre. Amqui. Que.,
and LaGaiete Theatre, L'Annonciation, Que.
ST.
JOHN
The Family club, staffers at Halifax theatres,
sponsored individual yule parties at the
Protestant and Catholic homes for deserted
and orphaned boys and girls. Betty Jean
Ferguson of Halifax, Miss Canada winner,
was a guest. At each of the parties the club
members distributed presents, candy and
fruit. The film program consisted of a feature
and several shorts. The Cathedral Boys
choir sang. On the committee handling the
arrangements were Mrs. Freeman Skinner.
Dorothy Creighton, Marion Leary, Marguerite
Kendall. Mrs. Seward, Mrs. Boyle,
Mrs. Little, Mrs. Creighton. Ruby Roache,
Mrs. Mortimer, Dick Shaw, Bert Lonergan
and Joe Leahy. Mrs. Leary was chairman.
Miss Leighton is club president.
Each Friday afternoon after school the
Rev. David Lang, pastor of St. Andrew's
Presbyterian church, has a special program
for boys and girls at the church hall. There
are religious, educational and comedy films
and a hymn between the showings. Besides being
the sponsor, the minister is also an usher.
School children of all denominations are
welcome. The weekly program has been
drawing capacity attendances.
Amateur stage performers appear to be
demand at Rothesay, N. B., where Mrs.
in
Max Marcus has been advertising for young
men and women to act In productions she
stages . . . Variety is the theme of Syd
Wyman's life at Yarmouth. Besides being
manager of the Community Theatre, he is
vice-chairman of British emergency relief,
chairman of the disaster relief committee
for the regional Red Cross, a committeeman
on vocational guidance for the local Rotaryclub,
president of the Junior Board of Trade
of Yarmouth and an officer in the army
reserve.
Morton L. Harrison was 95 recently and
reports that he is happy and healthy. He
is living at a nursing home in East St.
VANCOUVER—First run grosses generally John. For many years he was a violinist in
were the best in many months. Not one house
Heavy
the
viously
Imperial
was violinist
Theatre
and
orchestra,
leader
and
his
pre-
own
fell below average. Holiday attendance
of
and midnight show crowds combined to orchestra in the Opera House for about 30
send trade zooming. "The Paleface" at the years. He also had been director of the
Centenary United church orchestra over 40
Capitol paced the city. "Hills of Home" at
the Orpheum, "On Our Merry Way" at the years.
Vogue and "Good Sam" at the Strand" also
registered well.
Henry Moraze, St. Pierre, has been assisting
Emanuel Ruault-Cazier, in the operation
Capitol—The Paleface iPara) Excellent
Cinema—Melody Time (RKO). Variety Time
(RKO)
Good of the latter's rink and new theatre at St.
Orpheum—Hills ol Home (MGM) _ Very good Pierre. Cazier has been recovering from an
Paradise Grand Canyon Trail (Rep); Music
Man (Col)
Average
operation at a Halifax hospital ... In charge
Plaza—The Plunderers (Rep). Bush Christmas
of installation of projection and sound equip-,
(EL)
—- Good ment at a new private film theatre recently
.Good
Stale—Soviet Film Festival (Artkino) ...
Strand—Good Sam (RKO), 2nd wk
Good established at the home of James Dunn,
Vogue—On Our Merry Way (UA)
Good St. Andrews, N. B„ was Jack Tagg, manager
of the local branch of Dominion Sound
Equipment. St. Andrews is opposite Robbinston,
Me., on the St. Croix river.
Sam Babb, manager of the Mayfair here,
participated in a family reunion at Montreal,
which was attended also by his brother
Buddy who is engaged in industrial and commercial
film making in New York City . . .
Jules Wolfe, maintenance chief for Famous
Players, and Kaplan of Kaplan & Sprachman,
architects for the new Paramounts
in St. John and Halifax, went to Halifax
for a three-week stay in advance of the
formal opening there.
Alltime high on prices for everything
socked boxoffices harder than usual before
Christmas. Consumers of turkeys got the
bird at 95c-$1.10 a pound.
MONTREAL
n ctivities around Filmrow between Christmas
and New Year's day were confined
to finishing up the year's work, parties, the
reception of visitors and the departure of
various members of the staff on brief holidays
. . . Distributors expressed amusement
at an inquiry as to whether any of them
owned and flew their own plane. They felt
they had done well if they owned and drove
their own or the company's automobile. So
far, no local film magnate flies his own aircraft,
although, of course, they use the airlines
a lot, particularly in trips to New York
City.
In the past year some British pictures enjoyed
long runs and attracted large audiences
in certain neighborhood houses, but
so far, the big first mn theatres have shown
little tendency to feature British films. One
of the drawbacks which British films still
experience is the fact that fans in general
are not familiar with the names of the
British stars, with the exception of those
who have already won fame in Hollywood.
French-Canadians, having no sentimental attachment
to things British, are not, as yet,
keen on British pictures, and few have gone
on the road in Quebec province, although a
number of Parisian films have been shown
in the small town theatres, as well as in a
number of neighborhood houses in the
French-speaking districts of Montreal and
Quebec City.
Local film folk and newsmen deplore the
early death of Roly Young, drama and film
critic of Toronto Globe and Mail, whose
"Ramblings With Roly" was one of the most
popular columns in any Canadian newspaper
. of an issue of $2,500,000
Odeon, Ltd., first mortgage sinking fund
bonds at a price to yield 4M: per cent proved
attractive to investors in entertainment circles
as well as to the general public . . . Giveaways
are undergoing revival in some neighborhood
houses and were featured during the
holidays in the form of cutlery sets and dinnerware.
The most ambitious program yet announced
by the directors of the Montreal Festivals
takes the form of production of Verdi's
a
"Otello" with Ramon Vinay and other Metropolitan
stars, and plans for a summer
festival for Montreal along the lines of the
now famed Edinburg festival. A provincal
campaign with this aim will be undertaken
early in the year. It is proposed that the
summer festival last from July 25 to August
7. and that nightly performances will be
given of opera, light opera, symphony, ballet
and plays in French and English. It is
hoped to make it an annual undertaking and
to elevate Montreal to the distinction of
being the outstanding art center of North
America.
BOXOFFICE January 8. 1949 119

. . . The
. . . The
TORONTO
/-•ordon Cullen, assistant at the Odeon in
Sarnia. has been appointed manager of
the new Odeon at Brantford while J. Davidson
has taken charge of the new unit at St.
Thomas which has 750 seats. Davidson formerly
was assistant manager of the Odeon
at Peterboro and more recently was manager
of the Hume at Burlington.
Tom Walton jr., son of the veteran Toronto
exhibitor who retired several years ago, has
become the proprietor of the Forum, a north
end theatre, and also is operating the Eclipse
on Parliament street which was run for many
years by the late L. Pieghen. Tom Walton
sr. owned the downtown Rio for a long period
and was prominent in organized independent
exhibitor circles throughout his business
career.
Biltmore Theatres, Ltd., has added another
new unit, the 750-seat Biltmore at Sault Ste.
Marie. The company operates Biltmore at
Oshawa. Kingston and New Toronto as well
as the ace house in central Toronto. Ben
Okun. the head of the growing circuit, has
retired from the millinery' business to devote
his whole time to theatre operations . . .
For New Year's the Rio at Yonge and Gerrard
streets expanded the usual midnight performance
to an aU-night series of shows, the
program for which consisted of 15 cartoons
and comedies running two and one-half
hours. The arrangement, novel for Toronto,
was fairly successful In view of the rough
blizzard which snarled traffic for the weekend.
James Stnrgess. veteran projectionist at
Shea's, has been re-elected president of Local
173. The late Harry Dobson, former operator
at the Fairlawn, has been succeeded by Harry
Jarmain as vice-president. William P. Covert,
IATSE vice-president, continues as business
agent, a position he has held for a score of
years. His son Blaine has been elected president
of the Toronto Film Exchange Employes
local.
Nominations are ready for the motion picture
section of the Toronto Board of Trade
annual meeting January 11. Morris Stein of
Famous Players, the present chairman, looks
like the choice for the 1949 term . . .
Sam
Fingold, president of National Theatre Service,
hosted a big crowd of film folk at a yearend
party in his handsome suburban residence.
Publicity Man in Calgary
CALGARY—Derek A. Inman of Vancouver,
western publicity man for J. Arthur Rank,
was here arranging press and poster publicity
for the engagement of "Hamlet." playing
from January 10 in the ace suburban
Tivoli, house, the at $150. Before returning
to the coast he flew north to Edmonton to
arrange for the opening of "Hamlet" there
on January 17. A musician of note on the
coast, Inman also acts as business manager
of the Vancouver Symphony society and is
known to radio audiences.
Bob Hope on Tour
Bob Hope will leave soon on a cross-country
tour for "Easy Does It," a Paramount
film.
Martin Murphy Appointed
Northern Electric Co. V.-P.
MONTREAL— Martin P.
Murphy, president
of Dominion Sound Equipments, Ltd.. and
MARTIN P. MURPHY
assistant general manager of the commercial
division of the Northern Electric Co.,
has been appointed vice-president and general
manager of the latter company.
Murphy, who is also vice-president and
managing director of the Amalgamated Electric
Corp., is a native of Halifax. He joined
Northern Electric in 1921 in the wire and
cable engineering department. In 1947 he
was appointed president of Dominion Sound
Equipments and he still maintains this position
as well as continuing as vice-president
of Amalgamated Electric.
Murphy received his education at Westmount
high school and McGill university.
'Hamlet' Ends Sixth Week
TORONTO—"Hamlet" completed Its sixth
week at the new Hyland for its local roadshow
engagement despite the holidays. The
admission scale was $1 and $1.50. Attendance
at matinee performances held up particularly
well but evening crowds fell off
somewhat. There is a possibility that "The
Best Years of Our Lives" will follow "Hamlet"
as the second feature for the Hyland
but on a regular admission scale. "Best
Years" had a long roadshow run at the Fairlawn.
Toronto, last season and, more recently,
an extended run at the Odeon Toronto
at regular prices
Monfe Cristo Appears
On 5 Toronto Screens
Toronto—Movie patrons in Toronto had
plenty of Monte Cristo throngh a coincidence
of bookings. Loew's Uptown
played "The Countess of Mont* Cristo"
for one week during which pictures of
similar theme were on the screen of four
opposition theatres of the 20th Century
Theatres circuit. This program comprised
"The Count of Monte Cristo" and "The
Son of Monte Cristo" at the new Downtown,
Glendale, State and Scarboro.
OTTAWA
f^ttawa theatre managers and their wives
are going to have their Christmas partyafter
all. it seems, although it will be several
weeks late. Members of the Ottawa Theatre
Managers Ass'n were reported almost decided
on a midwinter social gathering . . . The
Francais in the east side was closed on New
Year's day by Donat Paquin because of home
celebrations by French-Canadian residents
of Le Jour de l'Ar., their big holiday
New Year's midnight frolics at the Capitol,
Regent and Centre downtown suffered unusual
competition in a lively fire at the
main corner of Bank and Sparks streets just
before the special performances were about
to get under way. The weather was also
contrary but the theatre crowds eventually
proved to be satisfactory.
Clare Appel, eastern division manager for
Odeon. flew from Toronto for a business visit
in Ottawa but he flew right back again because
the Trans-Canada plane could not land
at the local airport because cf the weather
National Film Board is working on
a picture, which deals with the colony of
Newfoundland, for release at the time of the
scheduled admission next March of the island
as Canada's tenth province. Incidentally, NFB
now producing various short subjects in
is
Ansco color, one of them being "Capital
Plan," which shows the beautification of
Ottawa.
Manager Robertson of the Mayfair is using
a monthly advertising calendar. The herald,
which is distributed among patrons, bears the
advertisements of six neighborhood merchants
new Odeon Ottawa on Bank street
is expected to open about the end of March
as the tenth theatre of Odeon, Ltd., a subsidiary
of Odeon of Canada.
Sardar Malik, high commissioner to Canada
for India, was the host at a special
screening in the National Museum of a film.
"Kalpana," showing many of India's native
dances. Uday Shankar and his wife Amala.
who are featured in the picture, made personal
appearances before the invited audience
at
the screening.
New Odeon at St. Thomas
Opened With Ceremony
ST. THOMAS. ONT.—The official opening
of the new Odeon Theatre here took place
recently with Mayor J. B. Caldwell, members
of the city council and officials of the
public utilities commission, the chamber of
commerce and service clubs as guests of
honor. The theatre was opened officially by-
Clare Appel, manager of the eastern Canada
division of Odeon Theatres. A reception and
luncheon was given at the Grand Central
hotel following the ceremonies.
'Snake Pit' Premiere
TORONTO—"The Snake Pit" is scheduled
for an unlimited Canadian premiere engagement
at the Tivoli and Eglinton of Famous
Players Canadian Corp. These two theatres
have a combined seating capacity of 2.520.
The Tivoli is in the heart of the downtown
district while the newer Eglinton is located
in north Toronto where there is a discriminating
clientele.
120
BOXOFTICE January 8. 1949

mill
JANUARY 8, 1949
Construction - Equipment * Maintenance

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THIS PICTURE OF A THEATRE
in Rochester, New York, shows
how Pittsburgh Products con be
used to give a theatre attractiveness,
smartness and greater
box-office. "Pittsburgh" modernization
should not be regarded
as an expense — but,
when adequately planned, as
an investment that brings worthwhile
returns.
Architect: Michael
DeAngelis, Rochester, New York.
to put up a good front
• Theatre owners and operators all over the country
have proved that the theatre that puts up a good
front—that is modern and inviting inside and out—is
the one that draws the most show-goers. And those
owners who have transformed their theatres with
modern Pittsburgh Products have increased their boxoffice
. . . boosted their profits. They've found, by
doing a thorough remodeling job—no half-way measures—that
this has been a real investment in the
future of their business.
You, too, can achieve the same results. Why not
plan now to remodel your theatre with Pittsburgh
Glass and Pittco Store Front Metal?
Talk over your needs with your architect. He's
thoroughly familiar with Pittsburgh Products. And
he will see to it that you get a well-planned, economical
design. We'll be glad to cooperate with both of
you in every way. Also, if you wish, you can arrange
for convenient terms through the Pittsburgh Time
Payment Plan.
Meanwhile, get your free copy of our fully illustrated
book, "Modern Ways for Modern Days." It
contains scores of examples of "Pittsburgh" modernization
jobs. Just fill in and return the coupon below.
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BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

3
Here's the kind of
wr ite us about
theatre owners Stevens Theatre, Doll tect-Contractor: Harwood t
Mr. Rowley's enthusiastic letter endorsing
American Bodiform Chairs is typical of many
in our files. Read it and you will know why
Bodiform Chairs are real box office "attractions."
JNext to good shows, comfort is your best attraction.
American Bodiform Chairs are contoured to fit the human
body. Smooth, clean lines ... no snagging, pinching, or
bumping hazards. More room for sitting and passing.
American Bodiform Chairs have rugged steel construction,
foolproof mechanism. Unoccupied seats automatically
rise to 3 4 fold, enabling easier, better housekeeping
with up to 50 r ; saving in time. Upholstered without tacks
or wood parts. Seat and back can be removed and recovered
in minutes. Write for the full story.
FIRST IN THEATRE SEATING
v/meucan Seating Company
WORLD'S LEADER IN PUBLIC SEATING
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

-
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carbons change dim screen
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Division Sales Offices:
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BOXOFTICE :: January 8, 1949

. .
NOW YOU CAN GET ALL THE
G-E FLUORESCENT LAMPS YOU WANT
FOR
the first time since General Electric introduced the
fluorescent lamp, production has caught up with the
tremendous, growing demand. Now you can get all the G-E
fluorescent lamps you want!
It's a great opportunity to modernize your theater with
the kind of lighting that brings patrons in and brings 'em
back. Bright light outside to attract attention, heighten
interest. Cool, comfortable light — free from shadows and
glare — in the lobby. Soft, flattering light in the lounges.
All this helps put your box office "heavy in the black".
And it's easy to accomplish with the right use
of G-E fluorescent lamps. Call your G-E lamp flK*7
supplier. You're sure of quality with lamps that
bear this monogram .
^dJ
OUTDOOR LIGHTING with Gt Snores- RESTROOMS are given soft, flattering
cents gets attention at low cost. light with G-E 8uorescent lamps.
LOBBY LIGHTING with G-F fluorescent lamps attracts steady business by providing;
(1) a modern, pleasant atmosphere, (2) a comfortable "bridge"
between outside brightness and the darker auditorium.
G-E
LAMPS
GENERAL $$ ELECTRIC
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

. . where
JANUARY 194 9
3M
Vol. XVI No. 1
n t n t
The Importance of 'Good Taste' in Modern Theatre
Decoration Hanns R. Teichert 8
$100,000 Decorating Job Dresses Up the Temple
Theatre at Tacoma, Wash A. R. MacPherson 11
761 Drive-ins in the U. S 14
Striking Display Is Emphasized in Four Ozoners 15
Black Light Has 'Glowing' Future Don Hill 16
Three Pounds of Corn Per Popping 19
Quartet of New Candy Bars 20
Modernized Isis Candy Bar Features Mass Display 22
Proper Design Can Increase Revenue Elmer A. Lundberg 28
Quonset With Style 32
Shoals Theatre Gets Favorable Patron Reaction.
That Depreciation Item—How and Why It Concerns
All Exhibitors John Bullers
New Room-Type Theatre Marquee Is Serviced From the Inside
Accent on Viewability Sumner Smith
Humidity—A Timely Discussion on Avoiding Extreme Conditions
and Obtaining Maximum Patron Comfort George Frantz 40
Amplifiers and Their Components Frank C. Champlin 43
DEPARTMENTS
Decorating 8 Air Conditioning 40
Drive-Ins 14 Cine Clinic 42
Refreshment Service 19
Planning 28
New Equipment & Developments
45
Public Seating .... 39 About People and Product 52
ON THE COVER
Advertising Index 58
View of the auditorium of the Vogue Theatre, Pittsburg, Calif.,
showing two of the black light murals which decorate the sidewalls
of the stadium-type house. Motif: story of Cinderella.
The murals are lighted with AH5, 250-watt black light, the
fixtures being recessed in the ceiling. Information on using
black light in theatre decoration is contained in a feature story
by Don Hill, on page 16 of this issue of Modern Theatre.
f\ THEATRE building must have
beauty treatments regularly and an
occasional face lifting to stave off the
wrinkles of old age.
About 90 per cent of our theatres
need a renewal of house appeal before
the opening of the spring season,
the extent of the renovation depending
a lot on how well the property has
been maintained.
A new paint job will do wonders to
many ailing houses. There's magic in
paint. Paint can be used to make
rooms appear larger or smaller; and
to lower or raise ceilings. Whole new
atmospheres can be created through
the medium of color alone.
Applying paint magic to a theatre
requires the services of a theatre decorating
specialist. The entire effect of
house appeal may be jeopardized if
the job is left to an ordinary house
painter or a home decorator.
Besides creating an interior that will,
for all visual purposes, provide a new
theatre for patrons, a scientific decorating
job can be a practical demonstration
of profitable upkeep from a
maintenance viewpoint. Plaster can
be inspected as the job progresses and
small repairs taken care of. Any small
leaks which are discovered can be
called to the management's attention
and repaired while they are still in a
minor stage. Resurfacing with paint
provides a sanitary condition that is
highly desirable.
Yes, there is much that paint can do
to keep our theatres in more than just
a passive stage of maintenance. Theatres
that use paint aggressively are
going to find that it not only pays from
the points of view mentioned, but in
the lowered costs of major renovations.
Paint used with imagination and
skillfully applied can take your theatre
right out of the workaday world into
the realm of pure magic . a
theatre belongs.
FLOYD M. MDC. Managing Editor
HERBEKT HOOSH. SaUs Manager
Published the first Saturday of each month Associated Publications and included by as a
section in all editions of BOXOFFICE. Editorial or general business correspondence relating
to The MODERN THEATRE section should be addressed to the Publisher, 825 Van
Brunt Blvd., Kansas City Mo. Eastern Representative: A. Stocker, 9 Rockefeller Plaza,
New York 20, N. Y.
1,
Central Representative
J.
Ralph F. Scholbe, 624 So. Michigan Ave.,
Chicago, 111.

Illustration One: A portion of the ex
terior of Balaban & Kot2's LaGronge
Theatre, LaGronge, III., which has recently
been renovated under the supervision
of architect Roy Blass. It does not
take a trained eye to appreciate the fine
balance of clean glass surfaces against
the stone, with lighting being the main
dramatizing agent to attract the patron's
ottention.
THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD TASTE
IN MODERN THEATRE DECORATION
by HANNS R. TEICHERT*
A Discussion of What's Needed Functionally and Decoratively
X nasmuch as
this
issue of Boxoffice is
featuring our subject
of decoration, with
particular reference to
the theatre industry,
we have given a good
deal of thought to
what particular phase
of the subject we
might present with
most significance.
Hanns R. Teichert
During the last year
we have tried to keep
you aware of which trends were developing
and which receding. We have also
tried to pick out certain phases of our field
and explain their function, so that one who
is not an expert could readily see what
logic and practicality lay behind them, as
well as aesthetics. We have also presented,
at regular intervals, examples of the newest
work in theatre decoration, ranging
from small theatres in small towns through
almost every type in the industry up to
tremendous downtown metropolitan
houses. But for this particular issue, we
would like to depart from our usual rather
specific and factual essay and make a few
points on the most appropriate subject of
taste.
What do we mean by taste? Of course
your dictionary will tell you something
like, "The power of discerning and appreciating
fitness, beauty, order or whatever
constitutes excellence, especially in the fine
arts: quality, as judged by persons with
such taste, as, decorations in good taste
or bad taste."
LoGRANGE THEATRE IS TYPICAL
Well, of course that covers quite a field,
but let's immediately narrow our discussion
to good taste in the matter of theatre
decoration today. And to make the matter
even clearer, let's give as typical an
illustrated example as we can of what we
mean by current good taste in our field.
Without any further explanation, let's
refer to our first illustration which shows a
portion of the exterior of the LaGrange
Theatre, of the town of that name in Illinois.
This house is one of the great Balaban
& Katz chain, and appears to have been
built yesterday instead of just having been
renovated under the supervision of architect
Roy Blass. It does not take a trained
eye to appreciate the fine balance of clean
glass surfaces against simple stone ones,
with lighting being the main dramatizing
agent to attract and focus the patrons' attention.
Here is everything that is needed, functionally
and decoratively, but not a thing
that should be taken away. And that is
one of the acid tests of good taste. Another
test is that everything that meets the eye
here is of the best quality . . . the lannon
stone wall, fieldstone sidewalk, glass doors,
metal mounting and trim, well-tailored
lighting and smartly builtin boxoffice . . .
nothing is inferior in either substance or
workmanship, or would not do credit to a
building ten times its size and cost.
Inasmuch as you are visually through the
glass doors before actually reaching them,
it seems compelling to enter where you find
the very inviting setting along the right
wall that is shown in our second illustration.
Here again, perhaps the first thought
that comes to the patrons' minds is the im-
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

Illustration Four: In this photo a homelike atmosphere is evide
arranged in on inviting setting. It presents a happy vista, evet
it is an excellent example of good taste in theatre decoration.
Before a lannon stone hearth that is the very epitome of hospitality, furniture is
black and white, but its colors moke its impact on the patrons most effective, and
The homelike quality we have already
mentioned is very evident in our fourth illustration
which shows one view of the
foyer. Here, before a lannon stone hearth
that is the very epitome of hospitality, furniture
is arranged in a casual and inviting
setting. This, too, is one of the ingredients
of good taste that we are emphasizing. But
the particularly pleasurable quality of this
interior, and one that first influenced us
into introducing this house to you as an
example of the best contemporary taste, is
to be seen in the correlation of design between
the carpet, the decorative panels, the
greenery in the boxes below them, and the
motifs on the auditorium doors.
We think you will agree that this presents
a happy vista, even in black and white.
Illustration Five: A corner
of the LaGrange
Theatre lounge that is
another compliment to
the impeccable taste of
the decoration. The eye
is
pleased with the relationship
of the carpeting
to the handling of
the same motif on the
stair
walls.
though its colors make its impact on the
patrons a most effective one. With the already
described colors of the carpet forming
the color base, the neutrality of the
soft gray lannon stone and off-white ceiling
is sharply picked up by the white-ongreen
decorative panels, and the green upholstery
of the furniture. This coolness is
balanced by the oxblood red doors to the
auditorium and the polished brass light
fixtures that here, again, are in a more intimate
type. The colors are as restrained in
number as in residential use, but they balance
this restraint with vibrancy and real
modern punch.
GOOD TASTE IS ALLY OF ECONOMY
Our last illustration shows a corner of the
lounge that is another compliment to the
impeccable taste of this theatre. Again the
eye is pleased with the relationship of the
carpeting to the handling of the same motif
on the stair walls. Incidentally, we would
like to digress for a moment to show how
here, as in innumerable other places, good
taste is the ally of easy maintenance and
economy. Specifically, we mean that the
problem of the soiling and marring of stair
areas has been reduced to a minimum
through the whole wall area not having to
be redone when damage is discovered, but
just the leaf or leaves retouched that surround
that particular damage. This can
go on for years with little differences in
color or handling being apparent. The
bleached oak and glass screen forms a smart
background for the planting and simple
furniture that are features of this area,
while further differentiated lighting fixtures
repeat the squared lines of the screen.
It's a simple story; but that, too, is another
test of its good taste. Perhaps the
best of all. And it is mostly on this score
that we recommend the LaGrange Theatre
to you as worthy of a little study. Then
we think that you will also agree that it expresses
significant good taste in contemporary
theatre decoration.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

Exterior view of
the modernized
Temple, located in the Masonic
Building, six blocks from downtown
Tacoma, Wash. The Temple
ploys both legitimate attractions
and motion pictures.
$100,000 DECORATING JOB DRESSES UP
TEMPLE THEATRE OF TACOMA, WASH.
by A. R. MacPHERSON
W ill J. Conner, genial general manager of
Hamrick's Tacoma theatres, recently inaugurated
the formal unveiling of his beautiful, newly modernized
Temple Theatre. During the past 21
years the Temple has presented fine entertainment
to Tacoma patrons of the arts, both in the
legitimate stage field, and since the advent of
sound has been one of the city's most popular
all-family film houses.
At a cost of $100,000 the interior of the Temple
was completely redecorated with rearrangement
of facilities and the installation of new Heywood-Wakefield
theatre chairs. Over 1,500 yards
of thick coral carpeting, based on thick foam
rubber matting, covers all areas on which patrons
walk.
An artistic refreshment bar was installed in
the main floor lobby for convenience of patrons
and, of course, not overlooking the profit angle.
A large, luxurious lounge room with restful davenports
and overstuffed chairs with smoking
stands was installed on a mezzanine balcony
leading to a new loge section by way of wide
ramps.
New also are two special-effect revolving lamps
that are motor-driven and so synchronized that
lights on the gold title curtain as well as the
lime and ivory trim of the proscenium arch above
the screen are bathed in a constantly changing
panorama of color. Specially designed clocks
are placed on each side of the stage. The clocks
are framed in neon tubing and plastic and have
radium coated dials.
Paul Carlsen, nationally known theatre architect,
was in charge of the mammoth remodeling
project at the Temple, Tacoma's largest theatre,
which will now make it one of the most
modern theatrical showplaces in the Pacific
northwest.
Above: Looking toward the rear of the Temple auditorium. The
at the back and sides of the auditorium are yellow and gold cloth, covered
with a
spun-glass acoustical material.
Below: Inner foyer showing maple paneled wall, concession bar and new foyer
carpet. The romp at the right of the photo leads to the balcony seats
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

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761 DRIVE-INS IN THE U. S.
Griffith Circuit Holds First Place, Underwood & Ezell Second, Midwest Third
w,ith 96 circuits operating 243 of the
761 drive-in theatres in the United States
September 1, Griffith Theatres of Oklahoma
City held the largest number of any
single circuit, or 14, according to research
by the Motion Picture Ass'n of America.
Twelve were in Oklahoma and two in
Texas. The MPAA survey listed the "chief
executive" of each drive-in company. For
Griffith it was Henry Griffing, who is
general counsel of the company.
In second place was Underwood & Ezell
of Dallas with 13, all in Texas. C. C. Ezell,
operating circuit head, resigned in 1931 as
Warner Bros, general sales manager. According
to the Paramount report of theatre
holdings filed with the U.S. district
court in New York in the antitrust suit,
W. G. Underwood and Ezell each owned
10 per cent of the stock of the Bowie
Boulevard Drive-In Theatre, Northwest
Highway Drive-in Theatre Co., Winkler
Drive-In Theatre Corp., Trail Drive-In
Theatre Corp., Circle Drive-In Theatre
Corp., Circle Drive-In Theatre Corp., South
Main Drive-In Theatre Co., Cactus Drivein
Theatre Corp., and Shepherd Drive-In
Corp.
DEPINET, DEMBOW OWN STOCK
The following had like holdings: Eph
Charninsky, Sam Dembow jr., and either
Ned E. Depinet or Alida Depinet. The other
50 per cent was owned by Interstate circuit,
a Paramount subsidiary. Depinet is executive
vice-president of RKO and Dembow
is president of Golden Pictures.
In third place was Midwest Drive-In
Theatres of Boston with 11. of which three
were in Ohio, two each in Indiana, Michigan
and Missouri, and one each in Illinois
and Wisconsin. It was headed by Philip
Smith.
E. M. Loew's Theatres of Boston was tied
for fourth with ten widely scattered holdings.
There were three in Connecticut, two
in Massachusetts and one each in New
York. Rhode Island, Maryland, Virginia
and Florida. Loew is a well-known veteran
exhibitor.
Tied with Loew was the Herbert Ochs
circuit of Cleveland, with five in Ohio,
three in Indiana and two in Michigan.
Ochs formerly was with Warner Bros.
Nine drive-ins were controlled by Edward
Campbell of Louisville, the Dixie Drive-In
Theatres of Atlanta, Harris Robinson head,
and the Lone Star Amusement Co. of Corpus
Christi, C. A. Richter. Six held by
Campbell were in Kentucky and three in
Indiana. The Dixie holdings were five in
Georgia and two each in North Carolina
and Florida. Lone Star had nine, all in
Texas.
California Drive-In Theatres, affiliated
with National Theatres Corp., had eight,
all in California. Charles Caballero is head.
He was also interested in the Anaheim Theatres,
Broadway Theatre Co. of Santa Ana
and West Coast-Santa Ana Theatre Corp.,
according to a statement of National Theatres
filed with the district court in the
antitrust suit.
FIVE CIRCUITS HAVE FIVE EACH
Alliance Theatre Corp. of Chicago, operated
by S. J. Gregory, had seven, five of
them in Indiana and two in the state of
Washington.
Five circuits had five drive-ins each. The
Associated Amusement Co. of Salt Lake
City, with S. L. Gillette in charge, had two
in Utah and one each in California, Idaho
and Nevada. Drive-in Theatres Corp. of
North Weymouth, Mass., had five in Massachusetts
and a division of managerial responsibility
between Thomas De Maura
and J. Guarino. The Drive-In Theatre
Management Corp. of Cleveland, Ben
Wachmansy in charge, had four in Ohio
and one in Pennsylvania. Albert W. Ochs of
Cleveland had three in Michigan and one
each in Ohio and Indiana. United Theatres
of Seattle, William F. Forman, had
three in Oregon and two in Washington.
Nine circuits had four drive-ins. Affiliated
Theatre Service of San Francisco,
Robert L. Lippert, had four in California;
Eastern Drive-In Corp. of New York, J. J.
Thompson, had four in New Jersey; Lamont
Theatre Service of Albany, Harry
Lamont, had four in upstate New York;
Malco Theatres of Memphis. Barney Woolner,
a Paramount affiliate, had two in
Tennessee, one in Arkansas and one in
Louisiana. Guy W. Meek Theatres of San
Jose had four in California.
MIDWAY ENTERPRISES HAS FOUR
Midway Enterprises of San Diego, with
Joseph Shure, formerly with RKO, in
charge, had two in California and one each
in Arizona and Nevada. O. F. Sullivan
Theatres of Wichita had two each in Kansas
and Oklahoma. Peter M. Wellman circuit
of Girard, Ohio, had four in Ohio.
Fabian -Hellman Theatres of Albany, Neil
Hellman, had three in upstate New York
and one in Pennsylvania.
Those listed by the MPAA as having
three drive-ins were:
Blumenfeld Theatres of San Francisco,
Joe Blumenfeld; Commonwealth Theatres
of Kansas City, Jack Braunagle; Fabian
Theatres Corp. of New York, S. H. Fabian;
Eddie Josephs Theatres of Austin. Tex.;
SERO Enterprises of Los Angeles, William
R. Oldknow; Tri-States Theatres Corp.,
A. H. Blank, a Paramount affiliate; Waters
Theatre Co. of Birmingham, N. H. Waters;
Wilby-Kincey Service Corp. of Atlanta,
H. F. Kincey, a Paramount affiliate.
Those having two were: Lewis Barton
Theatres of Oklahoma City; Blankenship
Theatres of Lubbock, Tex.. Wallace Blankenship;
Dickinson Operating Co. of Mission,
Kas., G. W. Dickinson; Florida State
Theatres of Jacksonville, Frank Rogers,
a Paramount affiliate; Jefferson Amusement
Co. & East Texas Theatres of Beaumont,
Tex., Julius M. Gordon, a Paramount
affiliate; Johnson & Spracher of Spokane,
Ed Johnson; Kallet Theatres of Oneida,
N. Y., M. Kellet; Lam Amusement Co. of
Rome, Ga., O. C. Lam; Leon Theatres of
Dallas, T. Leon; Carl Nilman Theatres of
Shelburne Falls, Mass.; Paramount-Nace
Theatres, and Harry L. Nace of Phoenix, a
Paramount affiliate: Slotnick & Canter of
Syracuse, R. C. Canter; Standard Theatres
Management of Milwaukee. L. F. Gran;
Fred Wehrenberg circuit of St. Louis.
OPERATORS OF SINGLE
DRIVE-INS
Among those operating one drive-in
were: Essaness Theatres Corp. of Chicago,
Edwin Silverman, which owned 37 > 2 per
cent of the Oak Park Amusement Co., a
Paramount-Balaban & Katz subsidiary;
Publix-Great States Theatres of Chicago,
J. P. Dromey, a Paramount affiliate; Robb
& Rowley United of Dallas, C. V. Jones, a
Paramount affiliate; Texas Consolidated
Theatres of Dallas, P. K. Johnston, a Paramount
affiliate; Golden State Theatre &
Realty Corp. of San Francisco. M. A. Naify,
a National Theatres affiliate.
Texas led all
states in the total number
of circuit-controlled and independent driveins
with 85, of which 39 were circuit propositions.
North Carolina had 78 but only five
were circuit-controlled. Ohio had 67, with
27 circuit-controlled. Pennsylvania had 53,
with only four run by circuits. South Caroilna
had 36, with three run by circuits.
States without circuit representation
were: Vermont, with one independent
drive-in; New Mexico and Montana, eachwith
two; Maine and South Dakota, each
with three; Minnesota with four. New
Hampshire with five and Colorado with
eight. West Virginia had only one circuitcontrolled
drive-in out of 13.
According to the MPAA survey, the 243
circuit-controlled drive-ins accommodate
124,855 cars as compared with 189,523 for
the 518 non-circuit setups.
14 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

STRIKING DISPLAY
Is
Emphasized In
These Ozoners

!
BLACK LIGHT HAS GLOWING' POSSIBILITIES
Decorative Uses Are Limited Only by Skill
of Available Technicians
by DON HILL*
v^ne of the most beautiful tools for
decoration in theatres is fluorescent paint.
The invisible rays of black light stream
out in the darkness and, magically, light
up each little spot of paint with its own
peculiar color in a way that no other light
or paint can duplicate. Thus, it is possible
to capture the reds and golds of a
sunset, the softness of moonlight, the icywhite
of a star, or the shimmer of a rainbow
for the appreciation of your patrons.
BLACK LIGHT STILL NOVEL
As yet. black light is still very novel.
The reason is that although there have
been a few spectacular installations, there
have been many average or poor installations,
so many architects and theatre
owners have reacted unfavorably toward
it. Those using it for the first time usually
do so experimentally, and unfortunately.
is a difficult medium with which to work.
it
Usually, several persons are involved in
the execution and lighting of the murals,
so that any number of errors may be committed—unknowingly,
of course.
A typical case where a theatre owner
wants to employ black light runs like this:
The owner sees his architect and tells
him he wants to use black light. The
architect has read about black light, but
never has used it. He welcomes the opportunity
to do something unusual and
magical, so he goes through whatever material
he has accumulated on the subject
and plans for the installation of the units
as recommended, using his own ideas
wherever information is incomplete or
lacking.
Then, perhaps, a decorating firm is consulted,
or, perhaps, an artist. These also
welcome the idea and proceed to lay out
a job that is beautiful and inspiring.
Mural in the Chief Theatre, Omaha, which is illuminated by three 250-watt black light units.
In painting murals to be illuminated with black light, is it necessary for the artist to work most
of the time in the dark, with only the illumination of the black light, to achieve the proper
degree of brillance in color.
When the time comes to apply the paint,
scenic artists are given the sketches and
the fluorescent paints.
Using accepted color-mixing theories
these men try to mix the fluorescent colors
the same way. Imagine their surprise when
blue and yellow do not make green, but
greenish gray, and red with yellow makes
brown
EVERYONE DECEIVED AT PREVIEW
After some difficulty in mixing and applying
the paints, the job is done and
everyone comes in for a look. The murals
may appear spotty if the black light units
are too close to the walls: or they may be
too dim if the units are too far away.
Perhaps everyone is deceived at the preview
before the theatre is used, by the
brightness of the murals in the darkness
without a picture on the screen. The screen
may throw back such strong reflections on
the dimly lit murals that they fade out
by comparison except when dark scenes are
shown.
"Oh, well," says someone. "You don't
want them so bright that they distract
from the screen anyway."
This is a mistaken argument commonly
heard. The eye. though focused on the
screen, includes the areas around it in the
same view, and, if the contrast between
screen and background are too great (as
it usually is), the eye has to change focus
as it shifts from one to the other. This
produces eye strain with an accompanying
headache.. The same situation can be
accomplished by reading a book in the
dark with the pages brilliantly illuminated.
Try it some time. Perhaps you never
realized what was causing your trouble.
Actually, there should never be one area
next to another with a difference of illumination
greater than three footcandles.
This is very difficult to achieve with any
sort of illumination, however.
FLUORESCENT LIGHTING IS RESTFUL
Fluorescent murals in a theatre give off
a type of illumination that is soft and
restful to the eyes. and. at the same time,
light the theatre well enough to spot empty
seats much easier than is ordinarily possible.
Typical side fixtures do not distribute
light very well and are rather
bright sources of light compared to black
light murals, but the murals may be giving
out more visible light than the wall fixtures
would. The light is distributed over
such a large surface that this is not
apparent.
Black light sources can be very uncom-
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

fortable if not shielded from direct observation.
The invisible rays make certain
natural substances such as the eyes and
teeth fluoresce. When the eyes fluoresce,
it seems as if one is looking through a
haze. This means that those people sitting
just under the lights and murals can
look at the screen only with great difficulty
if a unit is in their area of vision. So
many installations are made with the units
facing directly on the walls.
But the most amazing third-dimensional
effect is one that is not generally seen in
black light murals, and, if they are properly
designed and executed, they can literally
make the enclosing walls disappear!
OPTICAL ILLUSION PROVIDED
I remember one of my first experiences
in depth painting came about as the result
of an accident. I was working on a
mural in the upstairs foyer of the Hawaii
Theatre in Hollywood. I had made a sketch
to work from which looked fine; however,
in the course of the painting the colors
started working their magic and I saw
with consternation that the Hawaiian girl
in the picture appeared to be on the same
plane with a banana palm in the foreground,
and. consequently, like a pygmy
by comparison in size. Something had to
be done. and. experimentally, I redesigned
part of the picture. My idea was to produce
an optical illusion that would place
the girl and the palm on their proper
planes and fulfill the requirements of the
perspective. It worked.
Depth in an ordinary painting is obtained
by perspective, color, and shading.
Of these, the last technique is the most
important. If an object such as a ball,
for example, is to be given depth, it is
given highlight and shadow with a subtle
and even blending from one to the other.
It follows, naturally, that the greatest
depth produced by this means depends
upon the distance, or difference of value
between the highlight and shadow, or
white and black. With ordinary paints,
white, certainly, is not bright except when
it is placed in strong illumination such
as sunlight; nor is black as black as when
it is seen in a shadowy corner, so that
a painting has great limitations placed on
it by the very nature of the paints. There
are about 20 distinct steps between black
and white under normal conditions. At
least this will serve for a comparison to
LENS FACES MURAL AT ANGLE
the steps of gray between white and black
The side of the lens would, naturally,
a fluorescent mural which may number
in
be seen by those people a few as many as 200 or more between the two
seats back of the lamp. To overcome this extremes. This is dependent upon the
the lens should face the mural at a 45 amount of invisible black light falling upon
degree angle towards the front of the the mural, of course, but it will be observed
auditorium. In order to get the proper
that the depth obtainable is ap-
coverage, the unit would then have to be
located in line with the side of the area
it was to cover instead of the middle. A
proximately ten times that seen in ordinary
murals, providing the artist is able
to take advantage of his medium.
distance of about eight feet from the wall
ARTIST WORKS IN DARK
is the best for area and brightness, with
units spaced with about 12 or 14 feet between.
The kind of shading required to make
No units should be employed with ten times the graduation of color in the
than 250 watts at these distances. same space required for ordinary shading
less
taxes the skill of the artist to a considerable
degree since he must be ten times as
necessary for the artist to work most of
the time in darkness with only the illumination
of the black light in order to
achieve the proper degree of brilliance in
color which, in this case, is proportional
to the thickness of the lacquer until the
saturation brightness of the paint is
reached.
BRIGHTNESS IS DECEIVING
A difference in paint thickness which
is not obvious under normal light will
show very much under black light, and
is extremely difficult to control. The
brightness of the paint spray hitting the
wall is deceiving, and the eye becomes
insensitive to both color and brightness
of the spray if one follows the moving spot
for a few seconds. The tendency under
these conditions is to keep getting a heavier
and brighter coat of paint as an area
progresses.
An artist attempting to use black light
should really be an expert on the psychology
and physics of light and color,
an air-brush specialist, and somewhat of
an illuminating engineer. Only time and
experience can teach him the real possibilities
and limitations of the medium.
Most black light murals are designed
with flat areas of color, since shading,
mixing, or blending with lacquer is almost
careful. As an air-brush artist, I was able
this nicely on small paintings using
impossible to accomplish with a brush.
to do
friskets for
Any third-dimensional aspect' of such
making. On a large scale mural In any event it would pay a theatre
murals is brought out by the perspective
with a spray apparatus, the technique is owner planning to use black light to avail
very
and the psychological advancing and
awkward and tedious, but it gives
receding
effect of the various colors when wonderful results, and is decidedly neces-
himself with an expert in the field who
can be in on the job from start to finish.
seen in relation to one another. This
sary if the surface is made of a rough,
is
If the field gets its proper technicians, the
more pronounced with black light colors
than with ordinary colors, by the way.
porous,
It must
acoustical
be mentioned,
material.
too,
future of black light in theatres is, indeed,
glowing.
that it is
Striking Individuality Attained in Dover Decorations
This is the auditorium of the new Dover
Theatre. Dover Plains, N. Y., the decorating
of which was planned and executed
by Novelty Scenic Studios, New York City.
The wall covering is turquoise and eggshell
damask, and darker tone turquoise
mohair underneath the three-tiered conical
shaped luminaires. The wainscot is coral
and the ceiling soft maize.
The auditorium carpet, an Alexander
Smith product, is brown, black and gold,
while the chairs are coral and turquoise.
The over-drapes on rake walls next to the
stage and the proscenium valance are of
coral plush. The screen curtains are of
maize colored, self-figured festoon satin,
while the side and top masking to the
screen are soft gray rayon and cotton
material.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949 17

The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

i
January
54
Ul
ADDED INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROGRESSIVE EXHIBITORS
•
THREE POUNDS OF CORN PER POPPING
New Machine Turns Out Popped Corn as Fast as Two Can Box and Sell
£\. new popcorn machine designed for
big-volume operation has just been announced
by National Theatre Supply.
The new machine known as the National
Movie Hour Popcorn Fountain, pops three
pounds of corn at a single popping ... 60
pounds an hour. It is intended for regular
theatres, drive-ins, carnivals, race
tracks—wherever large crowds may gather.
In addition to a large popping capacity,
the Popcorn Fountain incorporates a number
of features including a new-type popping
plate, and a counter-height cabinet
which provides unobstructed vision between
the operator and the customer. The
cabinet is so designed that the wide glass
top can be used for counter space, making
possible the sale of corn and the transfer
of money without loss of time.
The streamlined cabinet is built of
heavy-gauge steel, finished in baked
enamel, topped with a.stainless steel work
tray. The all-glass construction of the
showcase makes possible an eye-appealing
display of freshly popped corn.
To keep prepopped com hot, a 9.000 cubic
inch oven is provided. The temperature
of this oven is thermostatically controlled
and remains constant at all times.
The bin for raw corn storage holds 125
pounds. Despite its large capacity, the bin
rolls easily, even when fully loaded. Adequate
storage space is also provided for
seasoning, salt, boxes and bags for the
popped corn.
From a preheated seasoning well in the
cabinet, a pump draws the correct amount
of seasoning for each batch of corn and
delivers it to the popping plate. The seasoning
well, which is made of stainless
steel, holds five gallons of seasoning. It is
equipped with a thermostatically controlled
heating device for preheating and liquefy-
A counter-height cabinet which provides unobstructed
vision between the operator and the
is customer, a feature of the new Popcorn
Fountain. The all-glass construction of the
showcase makes possible an eye-appealing display
of freshly popped corn.
ing of solid seasoning. The line leading
from the seasoning well passes through a
heating chamber and is said to assure efficient
operation of the pumping mechanism
even in the coldest weather.
Controls on the Popcorn Fountain are
grouped on a single panel on the operating
side of the machine, for easy finger-tip
operation. Heating units are of standard
design and may be replaced without buying
a new popping plate when only a heating
unit is needed.
An exhaust system removes objectionable
fumes from the display case. A readily removable
and replaceable filter pad in the
exhaust duct "traps" grease particles, but
according to the manufacturer, it does not
stop the enticing aroma of the freshly
popped corn. As an added feature, the discharge
vent has been so located and constructed
that exhausting to the outside air
may be accomplished if desired.
Neon lighting and two cash drawers are
furnished as standard equipment.
In size, the unit is 48 inches high (counter
height) , inches long and 30 inches
wide. Its net weight is 420 pounds; the
shipping weight 675 pounds. The machine
operates on 220-volt. 60 cycle current.
The controls of the Popcorn Fountain are
grouped on a single panel for easy access. The
bin for raw corn storage holds 125 pounds.
Space is also provided for storage of seasoning
and boxes for the popped corn.
BOXOFTICE
:
8, 1949

(Handy "StooA
(2&'(xBi
Above: The Candy Nook is a pred
candy, solt drinks and ice cream
inent place in the setup.
feature of the lobby of the Rivoli Theatre in Van Nuys, Calif. Eye-catching displays call attention to popcorn,
Photo of the candy bar of the Strand Theatre, Evansville, Ind. A Manley popcorn machine occupies a prom-
Quartet of New
CANDY BARS
Below: Refreshment counter of the Paramount Theatre,
Rochester, N. Y. The counter has been placed at a strategic
point in the lobby and the design is in keeping with the
decor of the remainder of the house. A Drincolotor dispenser
is in convenient position next to the popcorn machine.
Below: Lee Peterson, staff member of the Lyric Theatre, Salt Lake City,
purchases a candy bar from Bonnie Morcussen at the new refreshment
stand in the theotre foyer.

—
THE DRINCOLATOR
Counter height to fit into your candy stand.
Height 42", width 26 1/2", depth 28".
Small installation cost— just plug into wall
00% 75% OF ALL
MOTION PICTURE
HOUSES
ARE LOSING MONEY!
Only 25% of all houses satisfy the public's demand
for carbonated drinks such as Coca Cola and Root
Beer. The 75% who don't serve carbonated drinks
are losing money. This 75% claim handling bottled
beverages is too much trouble. We agree. Other theatres
have automatic dispensers. BUT living clerks do
4 to 5 times more business than machines! The
DRINCOLATOR is the answer to your prayers
the way to make real money!
• EVERY CHAIN THAT HAS ORDERED THE
DRINCOLATOR HAS AT LEAST TRIPLED
ITS ORIGINAL ORDER!
• MANY CHAINS HAVE RE-ORDERED 10
TIMES OVER!
• DO YOU LIKE MONEY? WHAT ARE YOU
WAITING FOR?
"Correction, please. Approximately 25% have already installed
the
Drincolator.
socket and connect to city water
•
In seconds, the DRINCOLATOR carbonates,
refrigerates, flavors and dispenses an authentic
drink of Coca Cola, Root Beer or any other
two flavors desired! By simply pulling the
handle, the New High Speed DRINCOLATOR can
dispense 25 to 30 drinks per minute under 40 degrees.
500 drink capacity
Takes less than a minute to refill
DRINCOLATOR'S syrup tanks
MAKE FROM 250% TO 500% PROFIT
5c per cup— for each $3-60 you spend on 2 gallons of syrup
and cups, you receive $12.50. Your profit:
$8.90- approximately 250%
II 0c per cup—your profit $21.40 — almost 500%
For full information on obtaining the Drincolator for your theaters,
write to DRINCOLATOR Corporation, }42 Madison Avem
New York 17, N.Y.
"PAYS FOR ITSELF WHILE IT PAYS YOU*

BUTTER-LIKE FLAVOR!
GOLDEN COLOR!
POPPING METHODS
and
POPCORN PROFITS
Recent field studies
show that popcorn
sales can be increased
15-20TC by employing
correct popping techniques.
If you are not
certain that your
present popping
methods are per
feet, write to
A
for information.
MODERNIZED CANDY BAR
FEATURES MASS DISPLAY
X HE ACCOMPANYING pllOtOS Show the
refreshment service department of the Isis
Theatre. Fox Midwest neighborhood house
in Kansas City before and after renova- .
tion. Wall decorations were drawn by
Frank Oschwald. Kansas City decorator.
The candy display consists of three sections
with glass dividing strips on which
the permanent display is placed. Stock
Candy bar of the Isis Theatre BEFORE RENOVATION.
from which sales are made is back of the
display on conventional flat shelves. Normally
all sales are made from the concealed
stock. Popcorn is stored in a warmer
not visible in the photo which can be seen
by patrons as they step up to the counter.
Coke is dispensed over the counter and by
a lobby vending machine which automatically
empties the bottles into cups. Roger
Ruddick is the Isis manager.
Simonin of Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA 34. PA.
22 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: January
|
MULTIPLY YOUR POPCORN PROFITS
Wl TH Mmfal/j!) FAMOUS "3
^H^HM
1. Mcvn&4/ MACHINES
The big sparkling bright Manley Pop
looks so clean, so appetizing, so colorful that i
more eyes . . . more money! Its big capacity and many
automatic features make it easier to serve big crowds.
It's quality built throughout for years of trouble-free
service. If something should go wrong, you get service
in a jiffy from a nation-wide network of service representatives.
2. MamWl/ MERCHANDISE
Manley popcorn is grown and quality controlled by
Manley formula to pop out bigger, fluffier, to create
mori profit for _)«;/. Manley seasoning has flavor plus
that brings your customer back, again and again.
Never turns rancid . . . never gets stale! Manley Popcorn
Salt is of a super fine grain that uniformly flavors
each and every kernel to further please the palate of
your customers. Also . . . serve your Manley Popcorn
in the famous red and white striped Manley bags and
boxes: America's best known Popcorn Package.
3. Mamjfay METHODS
Yes, Sales Promotion is important in the Popcorn
business, too! Manley reveals the trade secrets that
have made hundreds of thousands of dollars for popcorn
operators everywhere, in a new 64-page book
that is now ready for you. (Send coupon below).
MORE popcorn
at
Don't make the mistake of investing good money
in anything hut the best machine— the one that
big capacity—is trouble-free—returns a high
profit—in other words,
a Manley. Make your
deal with Manley the
"biggest name in popcorn" and the ONLY company
that can deliver the "complete package"
of Machine, Merchandise, Methods AND nationwide
advertising to increase sales at your Machine.
Send for your 64-page book now and "talk it over"
with a Manley representative soon.
H -
odyJQm&q DELIVERS
WPLETE PACKAGE"
MANLEY, INC., Dcpt. BO 1-8-49
1920 Wyandotte St., Kansas City 8, Mo.
Please send me your booklet, "How to
Make Big Profits from Popcorn."
THI BM.Gist NAMl IN POPCORN!
Nomt
Address
City State ....
BOXOFFICE :
8, 1949 23

—
Jeepers and the Dispenser Makes Money Too
At the recent New Orleans meeting of
the Allied States Ass'n of Motion Picture
Exhibitors, Tom Neely rigged the Drincolators
in the four National Theatre Supply
booths so they would dispense bonded
turn out tasty ready-mixed bourbon and
Scotch highballs. Bill Ainsworth, chairman
of the convention, commented, "Jeepers
and it makes money too!" The photo
shows from left to right: W. A. Miramon,
bourbon and prewar Scotch in addition to
the regular Coca-Cola — just to demonstrate
the flexibility of Drincolators. Anyway,
that's his story and he is sticking to it.
During more serious moments, Neely explained
to exhibitors at the convention
that the Drincolator is a real money maker,
which to some of the theatre owners was
even more impressive than its ability to
NTS, New Orleans; Herbert Griffin, International
Projector Corp.; H. F. Korholz,
Drincolator Corp.; William Stahl, Theatre
Specialties, Los Angeles; E. T. Rummel,
Hertner Electric Co., Cleveland; T. W.
Neely, NTS, New Orleans; John Goshorn,
NTS theatre seating manager; Ray Smith,
American Seating Co.; W. J. Turnbull,
NTS.
Oh to Be a Composer!
The guy getting the sartorial adjustment
is Eddie Ballantine of Breakfast Club fame.
popped corn and musical notes of "Buttered
All Over." The occasion for the presentation
was the personal appearance of
Ballantine at Blevins' Popcorn Village,
Nashville.
now tosts less than
coconut oil seasonings
Popsit Plus is
safer to use
with butterlike
flavor and appearance.
FLASHPOINT
654'
The "adjuster" is Elsie Sweeney of the
Blevins Popcorn Co.
Ballantine, who had a hand in composing
the "Popcorn Polka," recordings of which
are doing a fine job of attracting attention
to concession stands, has just been presented
a hand-painted tie, decorated with
Ready-Made Showcases
Require Small Space
Income boosters in the form of refreshment
bars are proving their worth in the-
I atres all over the country, not only from
the point of view of sales alone, but also
in improved appearances of theatre lob-
No great structural changes are usually
necessary to install a smart refreshment
service or candy bar in a theatre. Unused
wall space or a decorative niche is adaptable
to a small confectionery bar, either
of the attractive ready-made variety or
a specially built showcase.
The small ready-made showcases of fine
wood come complete with glass shelving
and fluorescent lighting and may be installed
with a minimum of planning. Easily
maintained, these attractive bars do much
toward increasing profits and goodwill with
a pint-size multiple enterprise.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

FOR OVER
We all remember the blood curdling
mellerdramas of the nickelodeon
days ... the Keystone Cops followed
by a dripping flight of custard pies.
Even then, your patrons were nibbling
on a famous American taste treat
"MASON CANDIES."
Great events in screen history flash
across your memory . . . "Ben Hur"
. . . "Cimarron" and the memorable
introduction of sound with the "Jazz
Singer." Still
the patrons called for
YEARS...
their favorite candies . . . MASON
PEAKS AND MASON MINTS.
Today we have New Stars,
Oscar
Awards and Technicolor but "Box
Office" at the candy counter remains
the same . . . MASON. In addition to
the old favorites there's a whole new
crop of MASON starlets to delight the
movie goer.. . Mason Black Crows,
Dots and Queens. Get acquainted
with Mason Candies — fill out the
coupon below for FREE samples.
MASON, AU & MAGENHE1MER CONF. MFG. CO. Dept. B
92 Pineapple Street, Brooklyn, New York
Att. Mr. Fred E. Magenheimer
Please send me without obligation FREE SAMPLE CARTON
of Mason Candies.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949
25

THE USE OF PROPER SEASONING
ELIMINATES DANGER OF FLASH
by J. A. RYAN
Vice-President, C. F. Simonin's Sons
X he kind and quality of seasoning used
in popping corn is important. It should be
able to stand the high heat necessary to
pop the corn and also avoid any possibility
of flash.
A word about flash is in order, as this
term seems to be generally misunderstood
in the trade. The flash point of seasoning
is the temperature at which the fumes
arising from the seasoning will be ignited
upon contact with a spark or flame from
any source. It is not a spontaneous combustion:
contact with flame or spark must
be present. It has been observed that many
people who pop corn will, in order to avoid
flash, place the corn in the kettle first
or simultaneously with the seasoning. This
is wasteful and inefficient practice.
Where the circumstances are not present
that a spark from an unprotected motor
or flame from any other source can come
in contact with seasoning, there is no
danger of flash. The best course to follow
is the use of a seasoning that flashes above
the popping temperature. Such seasonings
are freely available and those interested
should inquire about the flash point of
the seasoning they purchase, avoiding those
which flash at low temperatures and using
seasoning w-hich flashes above the ordinary
temperatures used in corn popping.
Many users of seasoning confuse "flash
point" with "fire point." The fire point
is the temperature at which the seasoning
itself will ignite when coming in contact
with a spark or flame. This is quite different
from the flash point, wherein the
fumes arising from the seasoning ignite as
previously described. There is little or no
danger from the "fire point" with seasoning
in present day popping operations.
To get best 'results in operating a popper,
the following fundamental rules of popping
should be observed:
1. The kettle must be heated at
least to the popping temperature before
beginning the operation.
2. The seasoning must be added and
heated to the popping temperature before
the corn is placed in the kettle.
WpEOPLE
,
UJHEREVER^^M GATHER
3. Too much seasoning should not
be used, as it is wasteful and unnecessary
and also may blacken the kettle.
4. Sufficient seasoning must be
used to insure the surrounding of each
kernel of corn with a film of hot oil.
This suggests a minimum by weight
of 25 per cent of seasoning to the quantity
of corn used and a maximum of
33 per cent. In other words, not less
than three ounces nor more than four
ounces of seasoning to each 12 ounces
of
corn.
MAKE MORE MONEY
JOLLY TIMEco°rn
M., 10'
with (his hie popping, "Vi.lumi/.d"
i urn Tr> it (luaranteed to please.
COMPLETE SUPPLIES
f..r mimcj -making operation. Marvelous
new seasoning, salt, sacks,
Write today for low
bligations.
SPEED-SCOOP (Patented) Only $2 50
The natural, quicker way to fill popcorn
bags. Used by leading Theatre
circuits and concessionaires. See your
Theatre Supply or Popcorn Supply
dealer. Dealers write direct
SPEED-SCOOP
sSnJr-
Please Mention MODERN THEATRE
When Writing to Advertisers
It's Tough at Five Cents!
Speaking before the 30th annual convention
of the Connecticut Manufacturers
of Carbonated Drinks Ass'n at the Hotel
Bond. Hartford, recently. William E.
Mankin. public relations director of the
Grapette Co., Camden, Ark., declared that
"there is a strong likelihood that Congress
will pass a law authorizing the coinage
of a seven-cent piece."
The title of Mankin's address was, "It's
Tough at Five Cents."
He continued by saying that bills endorsed
by both political parties have been
drawn up in both the house and the senate
for introduction at the next Congressional
session, and these bills have the backing
of powerful lobbies, none of which incidentally
is made up of beverage representatives.
D. Page Bennett of the Coca-Cola Bottling
Co., East Hartford, was elected president
of the state organization.
Mason Named President
Of the NAMA
The National Automatic Merchandising
Ass'n, at its Chicago convention December
12-15, elected Ford S. Mason of the
Ford Gum & Machine Co., Inc.. Lockport.
N. Y.. president. George M. Seedman of
the Rowe Corp., New York, was named
vice-president and John T. Pierson of the
Vendo Co.. Kansas City, treasurer.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATION
BY THE PRUNTY SEED CO
W hen Charles Prunty. who founded
the Prunty Seed Co., best known to theatre
exhibitors as the processors of Rush Hour
popcorn, and Popsit Plus and Seazo seasonings,
opened his doors at Commercial
and Olive street in St. Louis, Mo., back
in 1874, he was within a half block
of the Mississippi river. The river, at that
time, was lined with steamboat packets
used to transport manufactured articles
and food products to northern and southern
river ports, returning with cotton, etc.,
from the sunny south and lumber from the
far north.
Little did Prunty realize during the first
year, that the occasional sale of a bushel
basket of White Rice ear popcorn (the corn
with the hook on the end of the kernel)
would develop to the point where many
tons of hybrid variety of high popping
volume popcorn would be sold daily to
manufacturers and theatre operators.
Back in 1874 it was the custom of most
families to purchase a bushel basket of
corn from a farmer in the early fall and
hang it by strings under protected shelter
so that the ear corn would dry by Christmas.
Family gatherings and neighborhood
dances were held where everyone enjoyed
the popping and eating of the corn which
was considered "tops" at that time. Ex-
Putting
periments finally resulted in the development
of white and yellow Pearls and Squirrel
Tooth (white Japt. Then came the
hybrid varieties which very quickly became
public
QUALITY
into your Candy Display
choice.
Prunty soon outgrew his storage space at
301 Commercial Ave. and moved to 1 South
Main St. He gradually expanded his office
and warehouse space to such an extent that
before he died on March 5, 1925, the business
occupied five, five-story warehouses
on the river front and three, three-story
warehouses on Main street.
The first 51 years of operations were
under the name of Charles E. Prunty. In
1925, the company was incorporated and
has operated since that time as a corporation.
The Prunty Co. moved into its present
location, 620 N. Second Street, in 1940.
This building is five stories high, 170 feet
in depth and covers 66,000 square feet.
has an attractive concrete front with a
glass-brick entrance which was the forerunner
or the present modern building entrance
constructed in 1948.
Prunty's popcorn processing equipment is
modern. It had the first drying equipment
ever used and it was also one of the first
popcorn processors to use gravity mills in
grading and cleaning its popcorn. It sold
in 1942, its first fully processed hybrid
It
popcorn raised by a progressive farmer who
was fortunate enough to obtain a limited
quantity of seed. Seeing the merits of hybrid
popcorn, it immediately planted all
the hybrid seed it could get in 1943 and has
since that date planted only first-generation
hybrid for its commercial popcorn.
The firm has always been alert, looking for
new hybrids which are being developed
from time to time. Francis H. Barnidge.
its president, has been on the Processor's
Hybrid Committee since its beginning, and
is active in national popcorn matters.
Installing Water Coolers
Creates Goodwill
Clear, cool water dispensed in a hygienic
manner pays big dividends in public relations.
Ideally, the drinking fountain
should provide cooled water, hence an electrical
model is the most utilitarian as well
as the most suitable to modern theatre
lobbies, foyers and lounges. Gleaming
porcelain and sleek lines help the everpopular
cooler to fit into the decorative
scheme.
You cant make money from a water
dispenser, but you can make friends and
create goodwill by installing coolers at
conspicuous traffic points.
An illusion of size can often be given to a
small candy stand by the use of large mirrors
on the backbar. Varicolored mirrors
in shades of blue, gold and green can frequently
be used to good advantage.
INCOR PORATED
NEW YORK N. V.
fHE HEIDE DIAMOND TRADEMARK HAS BEEN THE SIGN OF CANDY QUALITY* AND PURITY FOR 79 YEARS
BOXOFFICE : : January 8, 1949

PROPER DESIGN CAN INCREASE REVENUE
Careful Planning With the Help of Experts Can Achieve for Exhibitors,
Units That Are Tasteful, Practical and Well Within Their Budgets
by ELMER A. LUNDBERG*, A.I.A.
X he primary purpose of a modern theatre
is to attract customers and give its
owner a fair income. It is axiomatic that
its success or failure is dependent upon
the number and type of customers it garners.
Thus the owner must use every
means at hand to attract and hold the
public. This will become even more necessary
in the days ahead as America returns
to healthy competition.
establishments have indicated that, all
other factors being equal, modernized units
gain anywhere from 20 to 40 per cent in
business and sustain a high amount of this
over long periods. This is particularly true
today because of the growing tendency of
the average American family to pile into
its automobile and cruise around looking
for attractive places to stop. In view of
this and other factors, the question of
mum efficiency with minimum expenditure.
This approach does not, in any way,
mean that cheapness will result, for simplicity
of design is usually most attractive
and always the most functional.
In prewar years, modernization was
more or less twofold in nature. First the
theatre front was designed, then came
consideration of the interior. Current planning
and building, however, prove that the
most effective plan, in the majority of
instances, is treating of the exterior and
interior as one unit.
Designed for the small-city location where space is at a premium, the front of the Roxie Theatre
employs modern techniques and materials. The entire front is flush with the sidewalk.
The ticket booth is at the right, where its corner location uses space that would be wasted.
For the large metropolitan theatres,
newspaper and radio advertising are perhaps
the most effective means to get customers
into the house. To a degree, this
type advertising is also a necessary factor
in the program of the average theatre
owner. However, both the large and small
theatres must also depend heavily upon
other means of attracting trade. Basic
factors in this respect are showing quality
films and developing friendly and courteous
service. For the average theatre
owner, however, the most potent trade
stimulant and advertising force is the theatre
itself.
Today, except in instances resulting
from habit, custom, or geographical location,
normal trade will flow to the theatre
that presents the most attractive appearance.
Case histories of general retail
modernization for the average theatre
owner becomes not so much a matter of
"Should I or Should I Not." but rather
a matter of actual survival.
MODERNIZATION INCREASES REVENUE
Obviously, theatre modernization requires
the risk of capital investment. Contrary
to popular opinion, however, the
amount needed is not proportionally large
when compared to the potential increase
in revenue. It is important that the owner
first budget the modernization program
and then plan within the budget. Economy
results from use of modern building materials,
new techniques and adequate professional
preparation.
By simplicity and straight forwardness
of planning with the help of experts, the
average owner or operator can attain maxi-
THREE PHASES OF MODERNIZATION
Over-all modernization for the average
theatre will fall into three major and
closely related fields. These are improvement
of the front, renovation of the interior,
and planning for traffic and any
merchandising which the theatre might do.
Inherent to all three phases are the basic
design, the color pattern, and proper illumination
with considerable emphasis on
choosing functional colors and correct
lighting. All these factors must be coordinated
toward the goal of demonstrating
quality and service. Between each of
the factors there must be a harmony that
stimulates customers and induces them to
enter the theatre.
The front itself must be planned to accomplish
three jobs. It must be the medium
that identifies the theatre and sets
it apart from others. It must advertise
the theatre directly to the potential customers
and cause them to stop. It must
present easy access to the interior. The
all-glass design is particularly able to accomplish
these results in an economic
fashion.
Illustrating the treatment which could
be given the front of the average size theatre
is that shown in the Roxie Theatre.
Designed for the average small city location,
where space was at a premium, this
front employs modern techniques and materials
to make it as attractive in design
as those movie palaces in metropolitan
centers.
The entire front of the theatre is flush
with the sidewalk. The facia is finished
in colored Carrara structural glass. To
the left are attractive display cases which
tastefully permit adequate showing of current
films. The ticket booth is to the right,
where its corner location uses otherwise
waste space.
• Director, Architectural Design Department Pittsburgh
Plate Glass Company.
28
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

The Capitol and Daniel Webster theatres show the results of careful planning. Both make extensive use of glass in the exterior decorative schemes.
The Herculite glass doors at the Capitol complement the visual factor. Being transparent they present no thought of barrier betv/een the outside and
inside. The distinctive marquee of the Daniel Webster helps identify the theatre and set it apart from others in the neighborhood.
To create an atmosphere of spaciousness
in such a small area a battery of four Herculite
doors are used. These have been
recessed to the depth of the ticket booth
on the right. Through these the customer
can see the tastefully appointed
lobby. Use of this modified open front is
an efficient way to give depth to theatres
which must have their main building lines
flush with the sidewalk.
The front has two projecting canopies.
The top one. extending- the length of the
building, is faced with diffusing glass and
permits billing of current features. The
lower canopy, which does not extend as
far as the top one. supports the tastefully
selected name of the theatre. This lower
canopy is perforated and permits an additional
source of illumination from the
sign lights above.
The all-glass doors open directly to the
center of the lobby. To the right is a
check room. Divided visually into two
areas by a glass screen and planting, the
lobby has seating all along one wall. These
are so placed that customers waiting to
enter the floor seating will be out of
the way of patrons leaving the theatre.
Directly above the wall seating is a fulllength
wall mural.
POINTS CAN BE ADAPTED
A study of the details and planning indicate
that the many features of the
Roxie can be adapted to different locations.
The entire unit is designed to incorporate
all the requirements necessary
for successful theatre operations. These
include adequate display facilities, marquee
signs, well-placed ticket booth, angle
exits, and a traffic-planned lobby.
There are today available many different
products and techniques which will help
the average theatre owner in his task of
modernizing. With the help and advice
of competent technicians he can redesign
for ultimate customer appeal. He should
take the job step by step for best results.
DOOR PLACEMENT IMPORTANT
Careful consideration must be given to
placement of the door. The latter is the
key to the primary psychological task of
the front—urging the potential customer
inward. Abrupt right angle entrances
should be avoided except where ample
area-way can be provided. The door should
not be of a solid material but should complement
the visual factor. Doors of Herculite
heat-tempered glass are especially
suited for this purpose; being transparent
they present no thought of a barrier between
outside and inside.
Since simplicity is the keynote of the
open-front, care should be taken in selecting
the type, size and color of the name
or identification medium. Generally, the
sign should be in simple lettering, rather
small, and in colors that will not clash
with the background. Many open-fronts
are "framed" with Carrara structural
glass with facia or piers large enough to
carry the name of the theatres for both
near and distant identification. Thus the
name or symbol can be made of a contrasting
colored Carrara and laminated
directly to the front. Such factors are location,
size, environment, and illumination
are determining factors in choosing a sign.
Modern, bent glass letters are being used
more and more for signs. These, with
proper illumination, can be made into unusual
and attractive customer-stoppers.
Certain type glass letters transmit light
edgewise and create signs, that at night,
are alive with a steady glow.
In the modern theatre, as a result of
the open front, the lobby will become a
large stage filled with dynamic action. In
most instances it will be merely an extension
of the exterior. Being thus open
to sidewalk traffic it must naturally put
its best foot forward. First consideration
for improvement are the walls. These perform
two important jobs—they serve as
display space and as the basic factor in
interior design. In planning treatment of
walls the owner has a wide choice of effective
wall coverings. These include Carrara
structural glass, or wall board or
panels that can be painted. The choice
depends upon the owner's budget and desires.
The same general condition obtains
as regards floors and ceilings.
COLOR IS IMPORTANT
Mirrors are another type of wall covering
that can be used advantageously by
the theatre operator. They go far in embellishing
small surroundings. Mirrors
decorate as well as brighten the interior
and make it appear really spacious. They
may be installed in single panels or used
as entire wall coverings. Structural items
such as piers and pilasters can be turned
into assets when covered with mirrors.
No matter what materials are chosen
for walls, ceilings and floors, certain cardinal
color considerations must be adhered
to if modernization is to achieve its goal.
Modern science has demonstrated that
color has inherent power and energy that
'Continued on next page)
BOXOFTICE :: January 8. 1949
29

)
Proper Design
Can Increase Revenue
(Continued from preceding page)
has a direct effect upon customers. Some
colors make people happy or sad: others
stimulate or depress. Color has the power
to make people feel either warm or cold.
Careful thought must be given to using
proper colors as they can have a direct
bearing on the success or failure of a
theatre. Coincident with choosing colors
must also be the selection of illumination.
Different types of light create different
effects on colors and thus on customers.
Planning for proper illumination for the
theatre is really a job for an expert. Every
theatre should have ample outlets to meet
all needs. The three principle objectives
to be achieved in lighting are: shadowless
illumination throughout the lobby, special
lighting for house, and compelling, illuminated
entrance signs and lighting arrangements.
GLASS BLOCKS HELP
Glass blocks also afford the average theatre
operator with a beautiful and economic
material to modernize the house
interior. They can be used as bases for
check room counters or for partitions and
still utilize maximum amount of daylight.
Glass blocks possess ideal sound, dirt, and
thermal insulating properties. Counters of
glass blocks are handsome additions to the
theatre and may be topped with colored
Carrara, making an attractive display
base for the candy or refreshment concession.
In modernization, all efforts must be
geared obviously for the consideration of
the customer. Today practically all customers
expect nothing but the best, not
only as regards films but also as regards
theatre atmosphere. Conditioned a trifle
too far into the future by the post-war
propaganda of things to come and not
yet here, they are becoming hypercritical.
In modernizing, however, the theatre
owner must keep in mind that, despite the
fact that he has some good ideas on the
subject, he should seek the advice of experts.
Trade associations, manufacturers,
and distributors all have studied this question
and can point out the most economic
method for modernization. Careful
planning with the help of experts can
achieve for the average theatre owner a
tasteful, practical and economic unit that
is well within his budget.
Many an old theatre has fine remodeling
possibilities, if placed in the hands of a
competent architect.
Changing the decorative effects in your
house frequently will keep it from becoming
static, and it will delight your patrons.
A RESEARCH BUREAU
for
MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS
ENROLLMENT FORM FOR FREE INFORMATION
The MODERN THEATRE PLANNING INSTITUTE 1-1
825 Van Brunt Blvd.,
Kansas City 1, Mo.
Gentlemen:
Please enroll us in your RESEARCH BUREAU to receive information regularly,
released, on the following subjects for Theatre Planning:
Acoustics
Air Conditioning
Architectural
"Black" Lighting
Building Material
D Carpets
Coin Machines
D Other Subjects
Service
H Complete Remodeling
Decorating
Drink Dispensers
Drive-In Equipment
Lighting Fixtures
Plumbing Fixtures
Projectors
Projection Lamps
Seating
Signs and Marquees
n Sound Equipment
Television
Theatre Fronts
Vending Equipment
Theatre Seating Capacity
Address
City
Architectural
Advisory Staii
THE PLANNING INSTITUTE is conducted in
collaboration with the following theatre
architects, structural designers and engineers
who have agreed to act as technical advisers
to the Institute and editorial text contributors
to The MODERN THEATRE section oi BOX
OFFICE from their respective localities.
ATLANTA, GA.
Tucker & Howell. Rhodes- Ha. e

A MODERN BRILLIANT
ALL-LUMINOUS DISPLAY
EMBODYING
ADLER
"THIRD DIMENSION 11
LETTERS and
fxcllL&JUML
"REMOVA-PANEL"
GLASS-IN-FRAME UNITS
The newest and most modern theatre Ironts depend
upon Adler Changeable Letter Equipment for that
final finishing touch that gives added attraction
value and selling power.
Adler original "Third Dimension" Letters in both
colorful PLASTIC and CAST ALUMINUM may be
used interchangeably in popular sizes on the same
frames—Adler "Remova-Panel" or Regular Type.
"Remova-Panel"— exclusively ADLER — is today's
complete answer to fast. easy, low-cost maintenance,
making possible changeable signs of any height or
length. Write now for complete information.
ury Theatre, Portland. Oregon, with 6 line (12 bar) Adler "Remova-Pane
Display.
Note changeable signs also on ends, with Adler Letters.
ADLER Exclusive
REMOVA-PANEL'
Saves money on all
maintenance, permitting
cleaning, repairs, replacements through small,
light "Remova-Panels" — not necessary to
remove any frame.
example of how Neon
sscent Tubing is easily
ilted out through "Remova-
Panel." Ordinary lamps are
;ven more accessible, as
Tel**' jiirfli
ADLER
2-tone "Third Dimension" design of Adler
PLASTIC Letters — toughest and strongest, with solid
triangular bevels and integrally molded supports.
Practically unbreakable.

QUONSET
With Style
Owner:
Fruitridge Manor Theatre Corp.
Architect: Herbert E. Goodpastor
Night view of the Manor showing the signs and attraction boards. Hidden in the
brick next to the theatre are lamps which flood the front of the theatre with light.
Uocated in the Fruitridge shopping center,
Stockton boulevard and Fruitridge road, Sacramento,
Calif., the Manor Theatre is a good
example of what can be done in utilizing a
quonset-type building for theatre purposes.
The building was constructed from Great
Lakes' steel quonset material. There are two
layers of sheet metal; the outside sheets rurj
vertically and the inside sheets horizontally.
Between the two layers has been placed Kimsul
insulation. The outside of the building was
sprayed with Pearlite.
The top photo at the left is a night view of
the attraction board and flower garden. Letters
on the board when the photo was taken were
Adler's ten-inch plastic letters. Light is provided
by neon tubes back of the glass. Openings
in the botom of the board allow light to flood the
flower
In the center photo is shown a view of the
foyer refreshment counter and the left entrance
to the auditorium. The walls are combed plywood.
They are painted antique green and
high-lighted with gold. The refreshment counter
was given the same treatment.
Below is a view of the Manor looking from the
southwest. The east side of the attraction board
is held up by a special French brick tower.
Hidden in the brick next to the theatre are floodlights
which flood the front of the theatre with
light.
Above: The attractive refreshment service counter of the Manor which is located
between the two entrances to the auditorium. It is constructed of plywood, is
painted green and highlighted with gold. Below: View of the Fruitridge shopping
center including the Manor, looking from the southwest.
The photo on the next page shows the auditorium
of the Manor with the lights on. Running
lights are located on the side of the building.
Light from these fixtures is indirect and
the light tends to follow the walls and ceiling,
which results in an unusual but beautiful effect.

CREDITS:
Acoustical Material: Universal Stadri Coating
Air Conditioning: U. S. Air Conditioning
Lighting: Grason Electric
Heating: Fontaine and Bean
Projection: Brenkert lamps, machines,
RCA soundheads
Sound:
Ballantyne
Seats:
International
Signs and Marquees: Pacific Neon Co.
Adler letters and glass
Auditorium of the Manor quonset with the lights on.
Walls of the theatre consist of two layers of sheet
metal; the outside sheets run vertically and the inside
sheets horizontally. Insulation has been placed between
the layers.
New Odeon Theatres Opened at Port Arthur,
Fort William, Northwestern Ontario
a blue background. Steve McManus, formerly with
the Odeon in Kingston, is Fort William manager.
Below is an interior shot of the Odeon Theatre
in Port Arthur, Ont., which was opened
November 4. This theatre, which is the first new
cinema for Port Arthur in some 25 years, was dedicated
by Mayor Charles Cox and the performance
was followed by a reception in the Prince Arthur
hotel. Seating capacity of the Port Arthur house
is 993, including 250 in the balcony. The manager
at the Port Arthur theatre is Leonard McGuire,
former manager of the independent Somerset at
Ottawa.
Both theatres have been fitted with Gaumont-
Kalee projectors and other equipment supplied by
Gaumont-Kalee. Ltd.. of Toronto, and both have
modern snack bars where food and confections
are served. The architect was the late Jay I.
English and the cost of each theatre has been announced
as $350,000.
VJdeon Theatres of Canada recently opened
new theatres on successive nights at Port Arthur
and Fort William, twin cities on the lakehead in
western Ontario. Officiating at the opening ceremonies
were George H. Peters, Odeon vice-president;
Clare J. Appel, eastern division general manager,
and Arch J. Laurie, director of public relations.
Odeon's new Fort William, Ont., theatre, illustrated
above, was officially opened November 5.
The structural theme of the Fort William house is
plain in treatment insofar as the front facade is
concerned, with the entrance being placed to one
side and a large expanse of glass providing a vista
of the lobby and foyer. The screen is flanked by
huge drapes which have a circular sweep into
the auditorium. The upright sign is gold with
BOXOFTICE :: January 8, 1949

mCHANGE LETTERS
from the INSIDE
SAFETY
No hazardous ladder
climbing or balancing
— no backing
traffic — no adverse
weather to ft g h t.
Make your changes
IiM;
safely and swiftly
from INSIDE.
Would you like a marquee that
• Opens from the back, permitting you to change marquee
letters from INSIDE the marquee, eliminating
CONVENIENCE
use of ladders?
For changing or
• Uses only 12 200-watt lamps for the same area which
cleaning, your equipment
is stored right
now requires 216 40-watt lamps, saving 75% in
electrical current and 32 c 'c in lamp cost?
where you need it,
• Maintains near 100 r i light efficiency at all times at
inside the marquee,
only ten per cent of your present maintenance cost?
directly in front of
• Provides handy storage space within the marquee for
the attraction sign.
changeable letters, lamps and cleaning materials?
• Allows further maintenance savings because electrical
equipment, such as flashers, etc., are installed
inside, safe from snow, rain or wind?
• Pays for itself in approximately 3 to 5 years because
ECONOMY
of these and other outstanding features?
Uses only 2 4
Then investigate the new Poblocki marquee — TODAY!
watts to illuminate
the same area which
now requires 8640
watts. Saves on letter
and lamp breakage.
Electrical
Wis
equipment lasts
2
r^t--—
59S .K.nmc
. .
, tniatlon ^d longer inside.
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(\
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: January
SHOALS
THEATRE
Gets
Favorable
Patron Reaction
Owners: Muscle Shoals Theatres
Architects: Marr & Holman
X he new Shoals,
which recently opened
in Florence, Ala., is a
good example of what
can be accomplished
when an exhibitor sets
out to build a house
that is one of the
most unusual and attractive
theatres in his
city.
The exterior of the
building, shown in the
Robert E. Stewart
photo below, is light tan brick, trimmed
with limestone and Virginia greenstone.
The exterior lobby and boxoffice are covered
with satin-finished corrugated aluminum.
Walls of the foyer are light green
while the ceiling is off-white. Lighting is
indirect, the fixture coves being trimmed
in rose. A modern design has been worked
into the floor, which is terrazzo in light
and dark shades of tan.
Rose and green were used in decorating
the ladies' lounge. Furniture is light mahogany
upholstered in light gray Duran
leather. The men's lounge is finished in
two shades of green: the furniture is mahogany
covered with dark red Duran
leather.
The standee area will accommodate
about 150 persons, allowing plenty of passage
space. Walls of the area are dark rose
with green trim and the ceiling is pale yellow.
The walls and ceiling of the auditorium,
illustrated by the photo at the top of this
page, are covered with Kalite acoustical
plaster. The color scheme used on the
walls is two shades of gray; off-white with
rose-red lines being used for trimming. The
ceiling is finished in two shades of gray,
off-white and pale yellow and is also
trimmed in rose-red.
The prominent slanting panel lines on
the walls tend to create an optical illusion
of the walls slanting in at the bottom.
Auditorium illumination is provided by
orange and blue neon tubes, placed in coves
back of the prominent wall disks. Stage
drapes harmonize with the theatre interior.
The valance is light green with gold
fringe. Crushed plush with a gold fringe
was used for valances. The front curtain
is wine red and of contour type. Trim
borders and side legs are of rose damask
and the screen curtain is gold metallic
cloth lined with red sateen.
The projection room provides ample
room for projectionists and equipment, as
well as space for a television projector
which is expected to be required in future
years. In the booth are two Century projectors.
Century dual-sound system complete.
Peerless Magnarc lamps. Bauch &
Lomb lenses are used. Directly below the
booth in the balcony attic space is a soundproof
room for the Hertner transverter
which supplies the direct current required
for the arc lamps.
The 974 Ideal Slide-Back chairs on the
lower floor and the 192 on the balcony are
finished in beige, with rose trim and natural
arm rests. The upholstery on the
back is dusty rose kinkeglo and the cushion
is coral cohyde.
The new Shoals is owned by Muscle
Shoals Theatres, a partnership formed by
Mrs. Tony Sudekum, Louis Rosenbaum and
Stanley Rosenbaum. Robert E. Stewart is
the manager of the house.
The new Shoals Theatre, Florence, Ala. cost $300,000, the equipment an additional $100,000.
It is located in the downtown business district and has a seating capacity of 1,344. Along one
side of the auditorium are four stores. Principal offices of Muscle Shoals Theatres are located
on the second floor of the building.
CREDITS:
Acoustical Material: Kalite plaster
Air Conditioning: Carrier
Carpets: Alexander-Smith Crestwood
Decorating: Nashville Decorating Co.
Projection and Sound: Century Projector
Seating: Ideal Seating
Signs and Marquee: Baltom & Cummings, Nash
villc, Adler plasti letters and Remova-Panel
frames
BOXOFFICE
:
8. 1949
35

THAT DEPRECIATION ITEM
How and Why It Concerns All Exhibitors
by JOHN BULLERS
Controller, Motiogroph
ML any of our best theatres and theatre
chains have set up a depreciation fund.
There must be a good reason for such a
fund, and there is—several of them, in
fact.
The depreciation fund serves a useful
purpose both in the present and in the
future. Let us look first at the future, for
that is where most of us have our gaze
directed today.
First of all, one must set up a proper
period of depreciation. This may be done
on the basis of a good depreciation table
and on one's own experience, as well as by
consulting the manufacturer and the theatre
supply dealer. If we find, for instance,
that a certain piece of theatre equipment
has a normal life expectancy of ten years,
we simply allocate 10 per cent of its cost
for each year.
SAVE FOR NEW EQUIPMENT
I am not trying to give you an elementary
lesson in depreciation. What I am trying
to point out is that at the end of ten years
your piece of equipment will probably be
worn out and must be replaced. Now, during
those intervening ten years you will
have had some cycles of good business and
some of bad business. Suppose you have set
aside no funds for depreciation, and at the
end of those ten years you find that times
are pretty tough. The result may well be
that you cannot afford new equipment and
so must attempt to patch up what you
have. When this happens, your picture
presentation suffers, and your patrons
begin to walk one block or several blocks
farther to the next house when they want
to go to the movies.
Suppose, on the other hand, you have
been farsighted enough to set up a depreciation
fund, and every year have set
aside the proper percentage for each piece
of equipment in your theatre. Then, when
something wears out, you have the money
on hand to purchase new equipment. This
wise provision for the future is simply
good business, and helps to explain why
some theatres prove a good investment and
others go broke.
DEDUCTIONS ON INCOME TAX
The other main reason for watching depreciation
is the income tax. The income
tax laws, in spite of the fact that they may
be confusing to a great many persons, are
very specific in what is to be taxed and
what is exempted. Countless men and
women pay more income tax than they
should because they do not understand the
deductions to which they are entitled.
There is nothing illegal or unpatriotic in
taking all of the deductions to which you
have a just claim. The government says
that you have every right to do so, and the
income tax man will not come chasing after
you at a later date.
One of these legal deductions is depreciation
on equipment. When a shrewd
business man calculates his annual income
taxes, he deducts from his profits an
amount equal to the annual depreciation of
the equipment installed in his place of
business.
Strangely enough, some theatre owners
have failed to make this legal charge
against their gross profits, and consequently
have been paying more taxes than they
should have.
Unquestionably, such exhibitors
should consult their accountants so
that this important deduction may be made
on their next tax return.
To assist theatre owners in determining
what percentage of the cost of their theatre
equipment may be charged off annually,
we are publishing a list of theatre equipment
and supplies, indicating the years of
life which may reasonably be expected
from each item. For example, a sound
system should be good for ten years of use,
so that one-tenth of the original cost of
the sound system may be deducted from
the gross profits each year over a period
of
ten years.
Property Depreciation Tables
The following figures show the average useful life in years of nearly all
items of theatre equipment and supplies. They are compiled from information
received from reliable sources, and may be safely used for depreciation
reserve fund purposes and for income tax deductions.
Theatre Equipment

muz
When We Say
MAXIMUM
We Mean
MAXIMUM!
: January
STRONG MOGUL
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projects 15,000 lumens — the MAXIMUM light that film will accept without damage!
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NEW ROOM-TYPE THEATRE MARQUEE
IS
SERVICED FROM THE INSIDE
With the Poblocki marquee all
letter changing is handled
from the inside, eliminating
the need for a ladder Clean
ing is done from the inside too
and can be taken care of in
any weather.
Storage space is provided
within the marquee for changeable
letters, extra lamps and
cleaning supplies. Electrical
equipment installed inside
is
where protected from the
it is
rain, snow and ice.
Marquee illumination is provided
in
by lamps Holophone
reflectors. The lamps are
mounted metal channels,
on
three lamps to each, and the
channels are suspended from
the roof.
Xoblocki & Sons of Milwaukee has patented and placed on
the market a new marquee in which changing of the letters and
other regular servicing is handled from the inside.
Access to the inside of the marquee is achieved through a
door installed in the front theatre wall. In a new theatre, this
door can be incorporated in the plans. In a remodeling job
where there is no room for a door, a scuttle hole is placed in
the roof of the marquee.
Attraction boards are split up into window-type panels.
These panels, by sliding up and down like a window, allow letter
changing from the inside, as well as bulb replacement in flasher
signs. The attraction sign lights are placed a minimum of three
feet from the glass, providing space for a serviceman to stand
between the lights and the lettering.
Another advantage claimed for the new' marquee is a reduction
in operating cost. To take a typical example, a regular
marquee 18 feet long and four letter lines high with 40-watt
lamps placed four inches apart, requires 216 lamps, for a total
of 8,640 watts. The new Poblocki marquee for the same area
utilizes only 12 200-watt lamps in Holophane reflectors, a total
of 2,400 watts. This would mean a saving of 72 per cent in current
and a comparative saving in lamp cost.
Storage space for plastic or aluminum letters is provided
within an arm's reach of the letter lines; breakage of letters is
almost entirely eliminated.
The attraction effects which may be presented with the newmarquee
are said to be far-reaching in patron value. Two types
of effects may be obtained. A color changer may be installed
within the marquee, enabling the operator to change the overall
color of the attraction boards, according to season, type of picture
or program. A motor-driven color changer may be utilized
to transmit various colors through the sign, giving an animated
effect that will increase the attraction value of the marquee.
Still more arresting is the use of a new type of stereopticon
machine which can be used to project a life-size actor, in conjunction
with his name and part in the picture, stationary or in
motion, onto one section of the attraction board. Trailers of
coming attractions can also be run. exactly as those on the
indoor screen.
The Fox Garfield Theatre of Milwaukee is the first to utilize
the new marquee in the type-A design. A second installation
will be the Capitol Theatre, Manitowoc. Wis., which is scheduled
to be completed within a short time. The Capitol will have a
round-type marquee.
L
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

ACCENT ON
VIEWABILITY
by
SUMNER SMITH
U\ \ \mm*
Staggered seating arrangement in the Proctor Theatre, New
Rochelle, N. Y., provides unobstructed view of the screen.
The installation by the Heywood-Wakefield Co. utilizes the
new Encore seats.
X heatregoers in New Rochelle, N. Y.,
are proud of their "new" RKO Proctor's
Theatre and are showing it by increased
attendance. We don't mean that the theatre
has just been erected, because it's
been doing business at the same stand for
years. And the exterior differs little in
appearance from what it has been for
years. It is the interior that makes it a
"new" theatre. And a revelation to the
residents of Westchester county.
Proctor's is now an outstanding example
of good seating, with the accent on comfort,
beauty and "viewability." No matter
which of the 2.688 seats a patron occupies,
he has an unobstructed view of the screen.
Sixteen-spring full floating cushions conform
to his body no matter how he sits,
erect or hunched down, and give the utmost
in seating comfort. All the seats are
self-rising.
The installation, completed in November
by the Heywood-Wakefield Co.. utilizes
the new Encore seats and features a stagger
system especially designed for RKO
to provide maximum visibility. This was
accomplished by placing 12 20-inch
chairs in every other row, with 11 20-
inch chairs in the in-between rows, eliminating
the necessity of placing one chair
directly behind another. Instead, the
chairs are set slightly to one side of the
chair in front, in a staggered sequence.
The old boxes were torn out to make room
for the new system.
UNIFORM AISLES MAINTAINED
To maintain a uniform aisle and prevent
patrons from bumping into the end chairs
of the 12-chair rows, special double standards
10 inches wide were placed on each
end of the 11-chair rows.
Particularly pleasing to women are the
completely enclosed hinges on the chairs
which prevent the snagging of nylons, a
tra and balcony are of two-tone rose-colored
mohair, while in the loge section they
are of two-tone turquoise. The metalwork
is turquoise with cocoa panels.
When the installation was complete and
the theatre reopened, the public was invited
through a special trailer to comment
on the changes. It was specifically asked
if the theatre wasn't the utmost in comfort.
The response amazed RKO Theatres officials,
from Saul A. Schwartz, vice-president
and general manager, to Joseph Di-
Lorenzo, division manager, and Baker Shelton,
theatre manager. It was enthusiastic.
Now, because of the response to the
trailer invitation and particularly because
of the increased business, there is no question
in the minds of the RKO officials
that the Heywood-Wakefield installation
real feature. A boon for management, the is an excellent investment. They have told
hinges are oil-less, requiring no special Heywood-Wakefield to do a similar rehabilitation
job on the RKO Kenmore The-
upkeep.
The color scheme is quiet and harmonious.
Seat coverings in the orches-
to
atre in Brooklyn. And others are expected
follow.
Below, left: To maintain uniform aisles and prevent patrons from bumping into end chairs of the 12-chair rows, special double standards 10 inches
wide were placed on each end of the 11-chair rows. Right: View of the Proctor auditorium, looking toward the stage. No matter which of the 2,688
seats is occupied, the patron can see the screen without difficulty.

HUMIDITY
and obtaining maximum
by GEORGE F. FRANTZ*
W HEN SOMEONE
attempts to explain an
uncomfortably warm
day. "It ain't the heat,
it's the humidity," is
a bromide that is often
heard. And to borrow
a phrase from Molly,
we might add, "It ain't
funny McGee!"
Humidity. that
gremlin-like factor
which can make us
comfortably warm
feel
George
Frantz
at 68 degrees or uncomfortably cool at 70
degrees, is second only to temperature in
providing comfort for theatre patrons.
Yet it is doubtful if 1 per cent of the
theatres in this country have the equipment
or personnel available to control
this factor to any great degree, and
further, whether such an investment and
operating cost
would be justified.
REVIEW OF SOURCES, EFFECTS
Before going into more detail, it might
be well to have a review of humidity, its
sources, and effects. Humidity refers to
the moisture or water vapor contained in
the air. The warmer the air the more
water vapor it can hold, and conversely,
the lower the air temperature, the less
vapor it can absorb or hold. The amount
of water vapor by weight contained in
a cubic foot of air is called the absolute
humidity, while the ratio between the
amount of vapor present and the maximum
amount which could be absorbed by
the air at a specific temperature is known
as relative humidity. This is the factor
which we will use in this discussion.
Outdoors the source of the water vapor
is any body of water, vegetation or any
object containing moisture and exposed to
the air. While indoors it is derived from
the products of respiration, evaporation
from bodies, plus any artificial sources or
the products of some process.
The effects of extremes in relative humidity
upon a person are more noticeable
from the standpoint of comfort than they
are upon the health. High relative humidity
produces a sense of discomfort, oppression,
and sultriness in hot weather
and of cold and claminess in cold weather.
On the contrary low relative humidity produces
a sense of coolness even at elevated
temperatures.
Prom a health standpoint, low humidities
tend to dry the skin, the nasal and respiratory
tracts and is claimed by some to
reduce body resistance to colds and other
diseases or infection of the respiratory
system.
It
might be surmised that a happy me-
- A timely discussion on avoiding extreme conditions
patron comfort by careful operation of equipment
dium could be arrived at which would be
agreeable to everyone everywhere, and to a
certain extent we can. However, we find
that even this medium should be modified
in various parts of the country to reconcile
it to local climatic conditions. We
conditions which would be satisfactory to
persons accustomed to living in the coastal
regions would be quite discomforting to
a person who was acclimatized to the arid
regions of the west.
REQUIREMENTS VARY WITH SEASON
Then again, we have to consider the
time of year, for humidity conditions
change with the seasons. While a high
humidity may result only in discomfort
in the summer, it can result in additional
difficulties in cold weather by condensing
into water on cold walls and causing stains
or even greater damage.
Humidity increases readily in a closed
room containing a group of persons because
of the moisture given off through
respiration and from evaporation of body
moisture, and if not offset by ventilation
or other means, it soon becomes excessive
and oppressive.
During the heating season the humidity
content tends to become exceedingly low.
To overcome this several means are available,
such as. permitting a small amount
of steam to enter the air supply to the
auditorium, in instances where this is
feasible. In other types of heating systems
humidifiers, consisting of pans hold-
CONTROLLING HUMIDITY
Controlling humidity in the summer
brings us up against the more difficult
problem of reducing the moisture content
of the air. This can be accomplished in
one of two ways—use of chemicals which
readily absorb moisture, or the more common
method of chilling the air to the point
where some of the vapor condenses to
water and is drained away. This involves
the use of either a refrigeration system or
an adequate supply of well water having
a temperature of about 50 degrees or less.
The use of evaporative-type cooling systems
increase the humidity in proportion
to the cooling effect of the system and
this often results In a most uncomfortable
condition, especially if any of the air
should be recirculated or if good circulation
and ventilation are lacking.
Excessive humidity can be controlled to
a certain extent in systems using evaporative
cooling by installing a humidistat in
the auditorium. This is a device which
find that a humidity which would be
reacts to the moisture content of the air
suitable to northern United States would
and is
not
similar in
be the most outside
satisfactory appearance
to persons
to the
average
living in the
thermostat. It
south. can
Likewise, humidity
be connected
into the system so as to shut off the
water supply to the cooling units whenever
the humidity reaches a predetermined
setting. When the humidity drops below
the setting, the device will again turn on
the water supply, but beyond this action
it has no other effect.
A relative humidity of 30 to 40 per cent
would be considered good for the arid
regions of the west, and 40 to 60 per cent
for other portions of the United States,
where the normal humidity is generally
higher. Under certain temperature conditions
these limits could be extended or
decreased without objectionable results.
In view of the relatively short time a person
remains in a theatre auditorium, good
practice would dictate that a condition be
maintained which approaches a normal
ideal for that climate in which the theatre
is located rather than trying to achieve
some theoretical ideal condition which
might be radical to normal conditions and
result in shock to persons entering or leaving
such a conditioned place.
HYGROMETER MEASURES MOISTURE
Simple and inexpensive devices known as
hygrometers which indicate the moisture
content of the air on a scale reading
directly in percentage of relative humidity
ing water, are so placed that the warm air are readily available. While such a device
is not accurate enough for engineer-
will come into contact with and absorb
the water, thus increasing the humidity. ing work, it nevertheless provides a suitable
guide for ordinary use and would be
To maintain a constant source of water,
the supply is taken from the water mains an asset in helping to maintain good conditions
in any
and controlled by a float valve.
auditorium.
As you have probably judged from reading
this far, maintaining absolute control
of humidity requires expensive and somewhat
elaborate equipment. More than this,
it requires competent and experienced personnel
who are alert and will operate such
equipment so that it will produce the conditions
it is capable of producing.
For the vast majority of theatres
throughout the country which do not have,
or cannot afford, such equipment and
operating personnel, extreme conditions
can be avoided and maximum comfort obtained
by intelligent and careful operation
of the equipment at hand.
40
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

But make sure of all three — Comfort, Appearance, Long Service
This Heywood-Wakefield Airflo model, TC 702, is an outstanding achievement in comfort,
literally tailor-made to the individual patron! It has a smart elegance of line that brings
your house up-to-date, and keeps it so. In range of colors and fabrics, too, it brings assurance
of good taste to your decorating scheme. Like all Heywood-Wakefield theatre chairs,
its sound design and steel construction assure long, long trouble-free service. In addition,
it brings you the full benefits of our long, practical experience in meeting the problems of
theatre owners— through numerous refinements and improvements which make up-keep
easy and cut maintenance costs.
So make sure of all three when you re-seat or plan a new theatre. Our illustrated folder
shows all current models in full color — and our own representative or the nearest H-W
distributor will show you at first hand how comfortable and practical theatre seating can be.
Heywood-Wakefield teams intelligent
design and good workmanship uith
steel to produce seatframes that assure
lasting comfort throughout long, steady
use.
Heywood-Wakefield Theatre Seating Division
.. Menominee, Michigan .. Sales
Oitices: Baltimore. Boston. Chicago.
New York.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

,
AMPLIFIERS AND THEIR COMPONENTS
Basic Knowledge of Electronic Fundamentals Removes Mysteries of Operation
by FRANK C. CHAMPLIN
IATSE Local 150
X o the average projectionist, amplifiers
probably have been his biggest headache
when it comes to understanding them as
well as he does the projection equipment
and other mechanical devices found in the
projection booth.
All projectionists should have, at least,
a basic knowledge of the equipment they
work with, if not for their own good, for
that of the game they represent. Neither
you nor I would consider allowing a man
to work on our car unless he was a mechanic,
and knew what he was doing. Nor
would you allow a scalpel in the hands of
anyone other than a doctor, particularly
if it were to be used on yourself.
I do not mean to infer projectionists
should be service men. Definitely not. The
servicing of sound is a specialized field
and should be left to those trained for it,
and having the proper equipment with
which to work. The projectionist should,
however, be learned enough to be able to
cooperate intelligently with the serviceman,
and know enough to take care of
minor things that may go wrong.
REMOVING THE MYSTERY
It is my opinion, that if the projectionist
will keep in mind just a few of the fundamentals
of electronics, and they are
not hard, he will find that what has been
a very deep mystery will, all of a sudden,
become almost as logical and understandable,
as anything mechanical.
We will first discuss the part of an
amplifier we come in contact with the
most, and which, I believe, is the most
confusing, the vacuum tube, sometimes
called a "valve." The latter represents the
most appropriate name because in one
word, it completely describes it.
Contrary to popular assumption, a
vacuum tube does NOT amplify anything
as you will come to understand later;
however, we will continue to refer to it as
amplification because it is done that way
in American text.
The vacuum tube is merely a device
which allows a small current to control the
action, or flow, of a larger current. In
another vein we would say it allows a
current of low amplitude, to control a
current of higher amplitude. Just the
same as you would use a light duty toggle
switch on your switchboard to control a
relay whose power requirement is not too
large for the toggle switch, which in turn
controls the house lights in your theatre
whose power requirement is much higher
than that which the small toggle switch
could handle safely. The toggle switch is
equivalent to the grid, or input circuit
of the vacuum tube, and the relay contacts
are equivalent to the plate, or output
circuit of the vacuum tube.
ELECTRONIC MOVEMENT EXPLAINED
Electrons are electricity. Their movement
constitutes an electric current you
i
start them moving whenever you turn a
light on, start a motor, or connect a load
to any electrical line). Electrons (electric
current) always travel from NEGATIVE
TO POSITIVE. The polarity of an electron
is NEGATIVE. Electrons (electricity)
may be generated by several methods, two
of them we find in use in vacuum tubes
associated with sound-on-film reproduction:
chemical (the photoelectric cell),
and heat (the vacuum tube as an amplifier).
Last but not least, the law of attraction
and repulsion. That UNLIKE
charges (one positive and one negative)
attract, and LIKE charges (two negatives
or two positives) repel.
You may demonstrate this to yourself
by taking two magnets, one in each hand.
Place the north pole of one magnet near
the south pole of the other, and they will
draw toward each other. Reverse one
magnet, and you will feel them trying to
push each other away.
Now to get back to the vacuum tube.
As was mentioned we may generate electricity
by heat, known as themionic emission.
If a suitable metal is heated to a
high temperature in a vacuum, electrons
will be emitted from the surface. The
element provided for this purpose in a
Protection room of
the new Lake Theatre, Warsaw,
Ind Walter f Hahn, a veteran in the
business, is on duty. The Century projectors
and sound system. Strong Mogul lamps and rectifiers
were furnished by the Theatre Equipment
Co of Toledo
vacuum tube, is known as the cathode. It
consists of either tungsten, thoriated tungsten,
or a metal which has been coated
with an oxide. It is sometimes "directly
heated" (the actual burning filament being
the emitter) or "indirectly heated" (the
emitting material being placed in close
proximity, but insulated from, the burning
filament). Whichever method is used
it is called the cathode, and when the latter
method is used, the element that supplies
the heat is just simply called the
filament, or heater.
Heat is generated by passing a current,
generally of low voltage, through the filament
or heater, heating it to incandescence.
VACUUM TUBE DESIGN VARIES
Vacuum tubes are varied in design, according
to the efficiency desired, or the
work which they are to perform. They
contain anywhere from two to six or more
elements. For the purpose of designation,
they are referred to as diodes 1
2 elements)
triodes '3), tetrodes (4), pentodes (5),
and so on. Tubes having more than five
elements are very rarely, if ever, found in
sound projection work. Their use is generally
confined to special applications in
detection and mixing circuits of radio and
television. I might also mention that
when the filament is used only to supply
heat, it is not counted in designating the
tube.
Now for the purpose of explaining the
action of a vacuum tube, we will consider
only the triode (three-element'. Tubes
having more than three elements function
no differently basically, and have more
elements merely to enable them to function
more efficiently, or are designed as
"multipurpose" tubes.
A triode consists of a cathode, to supply
the electrons, a grid to control the
flow of electrons from the cathode, and a
plate to which the electrons flow. The
latter is
called plate current of the tube.
Figure one. on the next page, illustrates
the three elements, and while they are not
arranged physically in this manner within
the tube, this will. I am sure make it easier
for one to understand what occurs.
Electrons emitted by the filament must
flow through the grid before they may
reach the plate. The plate is charged
positively by connecting the positive lead
of the amplifier's direct current power
supply to it through a suitable loading device,
either transformer or resistor. Since
42
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: January
'
two opposite charges exist, the electrons
head straight for the plate. If we were
to place a high negative charge (voltage)
upon the grid, the electrons would meet
with a "like" charge before they could
reach the plate. Therefore, remembering
our law of attraction and repulsion, they
would be repelled back to the cathode. If
FILAMENT
Fig. One: Triode vacuum tube, which consists
of a cathode to supply the electrons, a grid
to control the flow of electrons from the cathode
and a plate to which the electrons flow.
grid is acting just as the water faucet on
your garden hose does. Screw it down, (increase
the negative charge on the grid)
and the water flow diminishes. Unscrew
it. (lower the negative charge on the grid)
and the flow of water increases. Add an
extra pump to your water line, and you
increase the flow of water, just as putting
a positive charge on the grid will greatly
increase the flow of electrons to the plate.
Now. as we all know, alternating current
changes its direction of flow in accordance
to the frequency of the supply
line. If it is a 60-cycle current, then one
lead is alternately positive 60 times per
second, then negative. Therefore, if we
were to connect a 60-cycle current to the
grid of a vacuum tube, then the polarity
of the grid would alternate a like number
of times. Consequently the plate current
of the tube (electron flow from cathode to
plate) would be started on each positive
half of the cycle, and stopped on each
negative half of the cycle.
Whether the grid was supplied by a 60-
FlLAMENT
(OR CATHODE)
PLA7E-
019-- GRID
Fig. Two: Birdseye view showing actual physical
arrangement of the three elements. The
grid completely surrounds the filament or cathode
and consists of a wire mesh or coil. The
plate is
of solid construction and surrounds grid.
cycle current, or a 500-cycle current, the
plate current would be interrupted at
whatever frequency the grid was being
supplied. Therefore if a microphone was
to pick up the note of a violin which had
a frequency of 4,000 cycles, then a current
of that frequency would be applied to the
gtid, which in turn would cause the flow
of electrons to the plate to be interrupted
4,000 times per second.
Actually we never allow the grid of a
vacuum tube to be charged positively in
a high quality amplifier, particularly the
voltage amplifier stages of any amplifier.
It is done in certain type power amplifier
stages, but rarely in theatre equipment.
the negative charge on the grid were lowered,
To go into detail, would confuse
then a small amount of electron flow
would
the issue for some; however, we will briefly
to the plate take place. If the
mention that in actual practice, we
charge were completely removed, then the apply a fixed negative direct current voltage
flow would be free. If a positive charge
to the grid of a tube to set the amount
were placed on the grid, the flow of electrons
of plate current at a given value. This is
to the plate would be greatly in-
known as BIASING the tube. Then, the
creased.
alternating current signal appearing at
The "valve" action is now apparent. The the grid lowers the effective negative
charge on each positive half cycle, and
GRID
increases the negative charge PLATE
on each
negative half cycle. See how complicated
becomes?
it
BOXOFFICE :
PHOTOELECTRIC CELLS
Another type tube used in sound projection,
is the photoelectric cell. About
the only thing that need be said about
this tube is that electrons are generated
in a different manner than in other tubes.
Containing two elements, a cathode and
a plate, electrons are generated by chemical
reaction to light. The cathode of this
tube is coated with a chemical, which.
when exposed to light, emits electrons. No
grid is necessary to control their flow in
this tube, because the presence of light
upon the cathode, or lack of it, does the
trick. The brighter the light, the greater
the current flow, in fact the color of the
light will also influence the amount of
plate current. The cell is also sensitive to
light which cannot be seen by the naked
eye, such as infrared, ultraviolet and other
invisible radiation. Most photocells used
in sound projection work are gas filled,
the presence of the gas increasing the sensitivity
of the cell.
In sound reproduction the exciter lamp
provides the light required, and the soundon-film
recording provides the necessary
control by interrupting that light in accordance
to the recorded frequencies. In
other words, if we have a sound track upon
which a 1,000-cycle note is recorded, it will
cause the beam of light from the exciter
lamp, which is directed upon the cells
cathode, to be interrupted 1.000 times a
second. Consequently the plate current
of the photocell will be interrupted the
same number of times.
RECTIFIER TUBES
We have now covered two particular
type tubes used in our work. Another
tube, while it is not a different type, is
used for a different purpose, and we should
give it mention. This tube is the diode,
or duo-diode, half-wave rectifier, and fullwave
rectifier respectively. As in the case
of the photocell, no grid is required, the
alternating voltages placed on its plates
provides the necessary control.
This tube is needed because of the necessity
of having direct current for polarizing
voltages in an amplifier, and since rectification
of alternating current is a more
economical source of direct current than
batteries or generators.
Figure three illustrates a full wave retifier
circuit minus the filter system. Remembering
the law of attraction and repulsion,
and that electrons, being negative
in polarity, will only flow to the plate of a
vacuum tube when said plate is positively
charged, let's see what happens.
First the transformer is needed because
we require direct current voltages sometimes
as high as 400 volts in theatre amplifiers.
In fact some large systems use
higher voltages than this. For this reason
we use what is called a power transformer
to step up the usual line voltage of 120
volts to whatever is required.
As you can see the plates (A and B) are
connected across the secondary of the
transformer, and since it is alternating
current (we will assume 60 cycles), we
know that plate A will be charged positively
60 times per second. During those time*
plate B will be charged negatively. Since
plate A alone is of the correct charge, the
electrons will flow to that plate, through
that portion of the transformer secondary
High voltage AC -for rectification
to DC
TRANSFORMER \
Fig. Three: Full-wove rectifier circuit, minus
filtering, which includes a power transformer.
to terminal C. On the opposite halves of
the alternating cycle, plate B assumes the
positive charge, while plate A goes negative.
At those particular times the electron
flow will shift to plate B and flow
through that half of the transformer winding
to terminal C. Terminal C at all times
represents the exit of the flow. Consequently
the current flow remains in one
direction from terminal C, through the
load, and back to the filament, which assumes
a positive polarity in circuits of this
type. Result, we have direct current.
We have now discussed the vacuum tube
as it is used for three different types of
service, which represents all that are used
in theatre sound projection.
The average amplifier uses only one tube
as the rectifier, although several tubes are
required to amplify the very weak output
voltage of the photo-cell to the amplitude
necessary to drive a loudspeaker. Tubes
capable of delivering enough power for
loudspeakers are called power amplifiers,
and cannot be controlled by such weak
voltages. Therefore, between the photocell
and the power amplifier stage of a
sound system, several tubes are used to
amplify that voltage, and are called voltage
amplifiers.
In our next article we will consider other
component parts of the theatre amplifier.
8, 1949 43

ATTENTION TO LOST AND FOUND
DEPARTMENT BUILDS GOODWILL
I ncreased stress by both executives
and service staff personnel of the Regal
Theatre, downtown Warner house in Hartford.
Conn., on the matter of the theatre's
lost and found department has resulted in
a tremendous boost for theatre goodwill,
according to James Cotia. assistant manager.
Cotia, who is assistant to Manager Frank
Morin. was placed in direct charge of the
lost and found department of the theatre
about a year ago. Prior to that time, the
department was operated with various
service staff aides delegated from time to
time to handle the lost and found articles.
"Too many theatres," Cotia says, "don't
pay enough attention to the matter of lost
and found articles in dealing with the
public."
During the past year. Cotia has develectalists
IN
THEATER AIR CONDITIONING
oped a schedule of handling lost and
found articles. In the first place, all ushers
on the service staff are continually
told to remind patrons complaining of
losing articles that the manager's office
has a lost and found department and to
contact the manager for further information.
"And when the usher sends a complaint
to our office," Cotia continued, "we just
don't brush off the matter with a curt,
'Yes, sir
ior madam', we'll take care of it;
if your lost wallet, etc.. is found, we'll call
you immediately.' On the contrary, we
make a point of checking every article of
lost and found department.
"If the lost article is located, we make it
a point either to telephone the patron or
send a postcard, notifying him that the
lost article has been found and may be
picked up at the theatre office at any time."
Cotia says this extra service is "appreciated
by 99 out of 100 patrons whose lost
articles have been returned by the Regal."
CHECKUP EVERY SIX MONTHS
Every six months, Cotia and several of
the theatre ushers check through every
article in the lost and found department
which hasn't been picked up. If no identification
is possible—and no one has called
for the article within six months—the material
is given away to local relief agencies.
Space has been set aside in Morin's office
for the lost and found department. In
the space are small w ooden boxes, : utilized
for storage. Instructions are given to night
cleaning crews to return lost-found items
to Morin's office.
"It's too bad." Cotia added, "that large
theatres with adequate staffs treat this
problem of lost and found department as a
mere formality of theatre operation. It's
more than that—much more than that.
It's expressing the theatre's willingness to
serve in more ways than just providing
entertainment and relaxation."
Proof of the assistant manager's opinion
may be seen in the fact that since inauguration
of the theatre's policy on lost and
found, the Letters to the Editor columns
of the editorial pages of local dailies have
carried comments—all favorable—on the
department, as written by metropolitan
Hartford area residents.
Cotia joined the Warner circuit in Hartford
back in 1940 as an usher at the Strand.
Hartford. Prior to that, he was on the
staff of the Rivoli Theatre, also in this
city. He was promoted to assistant manager
at the Regal several years ago. His
boss. Prank Morin. is a veteran of many
years in
the industry.
UNITED STATES MK CONDITIONING CORPORATION
("in" Ivenue S. K. a( 33rd, Minneapolis 14. Minnesota
All-Concrete House for FPC
Construction of a $300,000 theatre in
Nanaimo. B. C. is scheduled to begin in
February, according to plans announced by
Famous Players Canadian Corp. Mel Gow.
Nanaimo theatre manager, states the theatre
will be an all-concrete and steel structure
to contain at least
1.000 seats.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

—
EQUIPMENT & DEVELOPMENTS
New Type Electrical Plug
Developed by Coin-Op
An electrical plug that is a real timesaver
has been developed by Cook Coin-Op
Sales of Detroit. Bared wires are placed
in the ends of the plug which is tightened
to hold the wires in place. A cam-pressure
principle is used to assure a tight
connection.
The unit is known as Coin-Op because
of the fact the cam is turned by any common
coin rather than requiring a special
tool or even a screwdriver. The plug is
made of black Bakelite and has received
Underwriters' approval.
Cook Coin-Op Sales is headed by William
H. Cook, who formerly managed the
O'Connell Suburban Theatres Circuit in
Toledo.
Additional information on the new electrical
plug may be obtained by writing to
Cook Coin-Op Sales, 12087 Sussex, Detroit
27, Mich.
New Signs for Drive-In Theatres
Announced by the DaWo Co.
The DaWo Co. of Toledo, manufacturers
of drive-in theatre equipment, announces
The stop-n-go light is
intended for controlling
traffic at the picture break and is
said to avoid traffic congestion and confusion
and to be a factor in helping leave
the drive-in with a good disposition.
Additional information on these signs
may be obtained by contacting the DaWo
Co., 1015 Utica St., Toledo 2, Ohio.
Flamort Company's Fire Retardant
May Be Used on All Materials
These days there is a good deal of conversation
relating to the protection of
property against fire. This is particularly
true in states like California which has
a law making it compulsory to treat combustible
drapes, hanging decorations,
scenery, etc., in all places of public assembly
with proved fire retardants.
A product called Flamort, made by the
Flamort Chemical Co. of San Francisco,
is one of the few products of this type to
get the approval of federal, state and civil
authorities, according to the manufacturers.
Flamort fire retardant may be applied
to any material no matter how delicate
or valuable, either by spraying with a
pressure gun or dipping. It is claimed
that Flamort does not affect the treated
material in any way and leaves no odor.
Articles that have been treated with
Flamort may be solvent cleaned without
renewing the retardant. Laundered or
steam-cleaned fabrics require retreating.
Additional information on Flamort is
available from the Flamort Chemical Co.,
746 Natoma St.. San Francisco 3, Calif.
Ramp Switch and Speakers
In
Production by Autocat
Autocrat, Inc., has announced production
plans for two new items designed for
drive-in theatres—a heavy
switch panel and an in-a-car
Pictured here, the DeLux
duty ramp
speaker.
the addition of three new signs to its line
a ramp light, exit light and "stop-n-go"
light.
The lights are 14x9 > :,x4 'i inches in size
and have cases of cast aluminum. They
come complete with offset flanges for post
mounting.
The ramp light identifies the ramp by
number and floods the drive with down
light. Throwing a toggle switch illuminates
the top section and indicates when
a ramp is full. The light is shipped with
ramp numbers as indicated by customers'
orders.
panel is designed for control, safety and
testing of in-a-car speakers, the manufacturers
announce. Made to fit individual
requirements, the switch panel is available
for 500 to 1.000-car operations.
The second photo shows the new DeLux
Autocrat concession model speaker featuring
Koiled Kords. The speaker is also
{Continued on next page)
BOXOFFICE : : January 8, 1949

New Equipment
And Developments
i Continued from preceding page'
features a molded one-piece cone base
reflex sealed in glass.
Further information can be obtained
by writing to Autocrat. Inc.. 2227 Hepburn
Ave.. Dayton 6. Ohio.
Fogging of Optical Lenses Prevented
By Application of Liquid Cleaner
The Sax Kleen Co. of Albany. N. Y.. announces
a new liquid glass cleaner which
it claims will give optical lenses lasting protection
against fogging or frosting even
available as a standard model with straight
cords. Autocrat emphasizes the allweather
construction of the speaker which
FREE TRIAL OFFER
TORNAMifr Portable
— it blows — it vacuums
Now you can try this powei
One of the most economical things you
can do to restore House Appeal is to redecorate.
Now's the time to get it done.
Theatre
Cleaner
-the 3-in-l Cleaner for ALL Theatre Cleaning
in your own theatre and judge thi
and the better cleaning—before you
With
rpets. upholster 1
ine to lift upsta
Another
hments. it becomes a lightweii
II carried from the shoulder for stairways,
drapes, screens. No cumbersome maor
tip on inclined floors,
attach nt makes it a powerful, penetrating deticide
sprayer.
Three Necessary Maintenance Machines in One!
Now used by hundreds of theatres with complete satisfaction
for better cleaning at lower cost.
•Trade Mark Reg. U.S. Pat.
Off.
Write Today for Details of Free Trial Offer
D R L U E R ELECTRIC MFG. CO. 5132Ravensv Avenue, Chicago 40, Mil
under severe conditions. The product is
sold under the trade name of KLR-VU.
In addition to the unusual protection
against fogging claimed for the product,
the manufacturer says that glass treated
with KLR-VU has measurably increased
light transmission qualities and remains
clean longer than normally. The manufacturer
emphasizes that the product is
not of silicone composition.
Further details may be obtained from
the Sax Kleen Co.. 11 Bleeker St.. Albany 2,
N. Y.
Rust Removal Necessity Eliminated
By New Vinyl-Base Primer
The necessity of removing all rust from
metal surfaces, or to have the surface
perfectly dry before painting, is said to
be eliminated by a combination chemical
pretreatment and primer for metal called
Rust-O-Primer.
The product, a vinyl-base, quick-drying
wet primer, may be applied to clean or
rusted metal including steel, aluminum or
galvanizing.
For additional information on Rust-O-
Primer, write to the Wilbur & Williams Co.,
Greenleaf and Leon Sts.. Boston 15. Mass.
Perfection in Projection
is
Standard
with Super Cinephor Lenses
Successful theatre operators constantly seek perfection in projection.
Thev know tli.u profits are dependent on projecting sharp, uniformly
brilliant screen images. That is why the overwhelming majority of
new theatres shown in the current Theatre Catalog were equipped
«iih Bausch & Lomh projection lenses. Perfection in projection
will he the standard in your theatres, too, if you use R.ius

i
: January
Wenzel's Projector Magazines
Are Deeper on Rear Wall
The Wenzel Projector Co. is now offering
to the trade new projector magazines
which are '4 inch deeper on the rear
wall and provide a clearance of approximately
9/16 inch between the reel and
the rear wall of the magazine. The shafts
for fi**
on both upper and lower ma azines are
2 inch diameter through the length of
the bearing surface.
The upper magazine shaft runs in two
flanged oilite bearings. These bearings are
pressed in from each side of the magazine
tracket, leaving a slight gap between the
two inner ends of the bearings to serve
as an oil reservoir. A dash of oil every
few weeks is all the lubrication required.
Both ends of the bracket are recessed so
the flange faces of the bearings are practically
flush. The lower magazine shaft
runs in ground-steel bearing.
New aluminum brackets have been designed
for these magazines, the extruded
edges of which are highlighted.
The present 18-inch magazines will still
be kept in production for those who desire
less expensive magazines. The new
magazines will be known as Pro-31 (18
inch uppen and Pro-32 1 18 inch lower).
Additional information may be obtained
by contacting the Wenzel Projector Co.
2505 S. State St., Chicago 16,
Continued on next page'
-Si. J With
i
* LARGER AUDIENCES
The rich, inviting beauty of Boltaflex upholstery gives
the interior of your theatre an atmosphere of smart,
modern luxury. Because theatre-goers insist on pleasant,
comfortable surroundings . . . Boltaflex pays off
in increased patronage.
• LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS
Guaranteed against cracking, chipping and peeling,
Boltaflex outlasts every other theatre seat upholstery.
It withstands many years of active use and abuse . . .
washes clean in an instant. Boltaflex lowers your maintenance
costs.
MAKE THE TOUCH TEST.
Run your fingers over Boltaflex upholstery. It feels best
because it is best.
CLIFFORD BOYD - Managing
Director, Academy of Music, Northampton,
Mass.— writes:
"We've appreciated top performance
continuously in
our theatre since taking RCA
Service. It is a good business
investment."
To get the benefits of RCA Service
—write: RCA SERVICE COMPANY,
INC. .Radio Corporation of America,
Camden, New Jersey.
er*~:—.. "earn,, ._ '• 'oao.w,.
BOLTA PRODUCTS SALES, INC.
Factory and General Office. LAWRENCE, MASSACHUSETTS
New York Office 45 West 34th Street
Chicago Office and Showroom: Space 21) American Furniture Mart
BOXOFFICE :
8. 1949

New Equipment
And Developments
(Continued from preceding page)
ufacturing the complete Debrie line for
distribution in the U.S., Canada, Mexico,
South and Central America, China and
Japan. The Reeves Corp. will manufacture
the equipment from blueprints and design
information furnished by Debrie.
Debrie Line of Printers
Inconspicuous Fire Extinguisher
To Be Made in U. S.
Now Available for Theatres Use
Negotiations have been completed for
the American manufacture of Debrie motion
Bostwick Laboratories announce a new
picture equipment. The Reeves In-
16-ounce, low-cost pressurized fire ex-
strument Corp. of New York City has been tinguisher. The extinguisher, called Hero,
licensed by the Andre Debrie Co. of Paris hermetically sealed and needs no refilling
is
or inspection. Operation is simple; you
to produce in this country their new 35
and 16mm optical and contact motion picture
just pull the trigger and aim the 18-foot
printers for both picture and sound.
Plans are now under way here for man-
pressurized stream on the fire.
Hero extinguishers may be wall-mounted
in convenient locations with brackets
provided, or they may be kept in kits or
g^l

,
tection
—
Century Gets British Patent
On Projector Mechanism
The Century Projector Corp. of New
York announces the awarding of a British
patent covering the design features of their
model C and model CC projector mechanisms.
U.S. patents were granted some time
ago.
The unique design of these mechanisms
is said to result in higher shutter efficiency
with lower heat on the film, simplicity
in gear and shaft design with proagainst
failure due to bindups,
frozen bearings, etc. Lubrication problems
j
I!
have been eliminated by the use of sealedfor-life
ball bearings. The use of cushioned
gears throughout has reduced noise
levels.
Featured also are manufacturing techniques
for greater accuracy of the timetested
Geneva star and cam, together with
ground tooth placement of the intermittent
sprocket with new enlarged diameter
for longer life of film and sprocket.
Reports indicate that these mechanisms
are now being used in more than 39 countries
of the world, including the U.S. and
Canada.
A competent architect—your agent—can
both make and save money for you in theatre
modernization. Why gamble?
IF
'OSCARS" WERE AWARDED
THE BEST THEATRE DISPLAY FRAM
D BE THE WINNER
The sincerest compliment to Sealuxe
Frames is that so many are trying desperately
to produce frames of comparable
quality.
Every display frame manufacturer claims
to make the best frame. Sealuxe makes
the same claim.
But there can be only one best.
Naturally you want the best.
To be sure you get the best get the facts.
CHAS. GREIME— General
ager of six Greime and Fasken
Theatres in Wenatchee, Omak and
Holden, Washington—says:
"We have used RCA Service
in our various theatres for
the past 18 years and consider
this service one of our
greatest assets."
To get the benefits of RCA Service
—write: RCA SERVICE COMPANY,
INC., Radio Corporation of America,
Camden, New Jersey.
Replacement parts for CENTURY
Model K and Simplex type
mechanisms—sold to all service
and supply stores.
Check carefully and closely the features
of all display frames claimed to be as
good as Sealuxe. Compare materials,
design, construction, finish, service, and
number and type of users.
Let your decision be based on
facts.
Then you'll never regret your decision
you'll always be glad you bought Sealuxe.
Sealuxe Theatre Display Equipment is an investment,
not an expenditure — the first cost is the last cost.
OMl£4S£fchZlL— CORPORATION
'
•
6710 DENTON DRIVE DALLAS 9, TEXAS
Universal CORPORATION
6710 Denton Drive. Dallas 9, Texas
Will you please mail copy of your late catalog ol Sealuxe Theatre DispU] Systems
Accessories and Hardware.
ThfJlrc -
I .mi planning to remodel D
1 am planning new theatre
CENTURY PROJECTOR CORP.
BOXOFFICE :: January 8, 1949

REGULAR SERVICE
PAY OFF IN
J_J ou Cohen, manager, and Norman
Levinson, assistant manager at Loew's
Poli. Hartford, have been conducting a
series of weekly service staff meetings that
have been paying off handsomely in the
way of service staff morale, and resultantly,
service staff efficiency.
The meetings, held each Sunday morning
at 10 a. m.. and lasting anywhere from
STAFF MEETINGS
MORALE, EFFICIENCY
one to two and one-half hours, go through
practically everything in the way of discussing
topics that concern an usher's and
a doorman's conduct, health, personality,
and general all-around "know-how'' of
practical showmanship as it can be applied
to the floor of a first run downtown
theatre in Connecticut's capital city.
What goes on at these meetings? Never
a formal gathering. Cohen and Levinson
consistently tell the service staffers to relax
and take it easy while attending these
meetings, held in Cohen's office.
Biggest topic is the matter of fire drills.
Hartford has been tremendously fire conscious
ever since the tragic Ringling Bros.-
Barnum & Bailey circus fire which claimed
the lives of 168 in Hartford on July 6. 1944.
Immediately thereafter followed a wave
of state and local police checking on the
availability of suitable exits and firefighting
equipment in every type of installation
catering to the public—everything
from hotels to amusement arcades. Theatres
got
their share of the checking, too.
Lou Cohen (left), manager of Loew's Poll
assistant
Theatre, Hartford, and Norman Levinson,
manager.
Ports maintenance cost for the thousands of "TECA" Speakers in
service has averaged less than 1c per season, per speaker . . . the
lowest known. "TECA" Speakers have been designed to last a lifetime.
The cast oluminum case can be run over by a car without
damage.
Only the best materials are used in the construction of the "driver
unit." It is of highest power sensitivity and assures natural tone.
Speakers plug-in and lock. Cast aluminum junction box clamps on.
• IMPERVIOUS TO WEATHER • BUILT-IN VOLUME CONTROL
• REASONABLY PRICED
Recorded losses of speakers installed with "TECA" THEFT-RESISTING
CABLES average less than 0.3 of 1%. Koil cords available.
Write for the name of your nearest independent dealer.
Fire drills are big business during the
service staff meetings. Each Sunday morning,
all personnel actually participates in
a fire drill. Cohen and Levinson take the
entire crew down to the main auditorium.
Cohen gets up on the theatre stage, and
says in the manner that would be utilized
in the real event: "Ladies and gentlemen,
there is a fire in the building. But please
do not get alarmed. The service staff will
aid you in the direction of the exits. There
is no cause for alarm."
With that brief talk by Cohen, the service
staff swings into action—and pronto!
Under chief of staff James H. Hughes,
each usher and doorman proceeds to walk
calmly along the aisles. They are instructed
to tell the make-believe patrons.
"Please take your time. Do not rush to
your nearest exit."
Levinson says that "if the usher ever
shows any sign of alarm, it would throw
the entire house into a terrific uproar.
The secret is to train—and continually
train—the ushers and doorman that the
main thing is to keep calm themselves
and pass this calmness on to the patron."
Another topic discussed by Cohen and
Levinson and the service staff is the matter
of theatre publicity. Cohen, a veteran of
many years in all phases of theatre operation,
has long been noted for his exploitation
campaigns, having won numerous
national exploitation, including BOXOF-
FTCE Showmandiser. awards. During these
meetings, service staffers are encouraged
Trie
MODERN THEATRE SECTION

; ous
I
J
: January
to suggest or criticize any aspect of the
theatre publicity program.
Another topic: Discussion of cleanliness,
both uniform and personal.
Service staff members each week are
i given copies of the film running schedules.
This way gives the patron a ready set of
information available on the running time
of any part of the program.
From time to time, guest speakers, representing
various phases of theatre operation,
are brought into th?se meetings to
discuss with the service staffers the vari-
"know-hows" of handling theatre
patrons.
Recently, Levinson has started organizing
a sports program. A football team
was set up, playing three games with other
theatre teams. Bowling teams were organized,
with invitations to bowl being
given to other downtown houses.
Actual steps are shown during these
meetings, too, concerning handling of
children and elderly persons In the auditorium.
And whenever a patron walks into the
theatre, he immediately is greeted by an
usher standing near the boxoffice. The
latter says briefly, informally, and with a
smile: "Good afternoon tor evening), sir,
i or Madam) ; the main feature starts
at ... " Inside the auditorium, this same
process is repeated, with the usher saying.
"Good afternoon, follow me, please, to a
good seat."
Levinson says that through these service
meetings, Cohen and himself have found
plenty of evidence to back up their claim
of not only selling the theatre as a medium
of entertainment to the usher and doorman
components of the service staff, but
also to get across the idea to the service
staffers of the responsibility of handling
a theatre job correctly.
Heating and Ventilating
Engineers Meet in Chicago
Advances in specific heating, ventilating
and air conditioning equipment will be
featured at the ninth International Heating
and Ventilating exposition to be held
in Chicago January 24 to 28. The exposition
is sponsored by the American Society
of Heating and Ventilating Engineers
and will be held in conjunction with the
55th annual meeting of the society.
A number of important displays covering
institutional and domestic uses of the
tquipment will be devoted to various means
of air purification, filtration in particular.
One of the most comprehensive displays
in this line will include eleven different
types of dry filtering media, together
with an assortment of frames in
which these materials may be used: two
designs of filters in which mechanical
filtration and electric precipitation are
combined. One new washable air filter
and several new electric air filters will be
displayed.
Many forms of air-cooling systems will
also be displayed. A roof cooling system,
improved by the adoption of a new type
of self-cleaning sprinkler head, will be
notable among these exhibits.
The exposition is open only to invited
and registered visitors.
HARVEY LEVENSON— Owner,
Cozy Theatre, Los Angeles, California—
says:
"I have used RCA Service for
years. It fulfills all my requirements.
It benefits both myself
and my patrons."
To get the benefits of RCA Service
—write: RCA SERVICE COMPANY,
INC., Radio Corporation of America,
Camden, New Jersey.
KOI I AVOKIJEN .
2 Franklin Avenue
Brooklyn 11, New York OltlMHtilTION
BOXOFFICE :
8, 1949

about PEOPLE I
and PRODUCT
N. Y. The announcement was made by
Cloud Wampler, president, who stated Lilygren
will now serve as vice-president and
controller.
Joe Hornstein, Inc. of New York City
has announced the purchase of the Midstates
Theatre Supply, Inc. in St. Louis. A
change of name will make the corporation
one of the branches of Joe Hornstein. Inc.
Current plans indicate that Morton S.
Gottlieb, one of the original owners of
Midstates, will continue to be associated
with the company and that he will be
joined by Milton Hornstein. son of Joe
Hornstein.
PREVENT SMOKE
u bom spreading
into your auditorium
with BEST Porthole
Fire Shutl.rt.
The past four months have seen the installation
of new International chairs in
over 100 theatres throughout the country,
according to a report from the theatre
equipment section of the RCA Engineering
Products department at Camden. N. J.
George N. Lilygren has been elected
vice-president of the Carrier Corp., manufacturers
of air conditioning and refrigeration
equipment, located in Syracuse,
Zed PORTHOLE FIRE
SHUTTER
DROP PLATE will always drop
Made of heavy 10 gauge welded steel with no screws
or soldering, the BEST Porthole Fire Shutter meets all
State and City inspection laws. Grooves for 1/4" glass
frame are included on all shutters. Shipped complete,
ready to install.
Complete projection booth supplies are also available
including mechanical controls, slide projectors, carbon
savers, rewind pulleys, and copper terminal lugs.
See your
Theatre Supply
Dealer or write:
Chase Candy Co. announces the following
changes in personnel: In St. Louis,
Peter Wilder jr., credit manager; in San
Jose, Paul Hessler, production manager of
the plant, and Jack Poole, factory purchasing
manager; in St. Joseph, H. T. Bayne,
a veteran of 38 years with the company, is
now office manager as well as credit manager.
Harte & Co., pioneers in the development
of all-plastic fabric, announce their entrance
into the drapery fabric field by introducing
a Wataseal plastic drapery fabric
line at the National Plastic exposition recently
held at Grand Central Palace, New
York.
Leon Appleman, president of the Appleman
Art Glass Works, Bergenfield, N. J.,
reports that 64,800 square feet of Murapane,
a new and virtually unbreakable
colored-glass tiling, will be used in surfacing
walls and columns in the United
Nations Secretariat, Manhattan.
Nu-Screen manufacturer. Otto Hehn, recently
visited the Wenzel Projector Co. in
Chicago where he purchased a pair of
Wenzel Pro-4 spiral-gear mechanisms for
use in his experimental laboratories at
Kings Mountain, N. C.
Philco Corp. has announced the appointment
of Dr. Courtney Pitt to the
newly created office of vice-president of
finance. Dr. Pitt joined the corporation in
1941 and since January of 1947 he has
served as economist in charge of the economic
research division.
Plans for exhibiting at the Ninth International
Heating and Ventilating Exposition
in Chicago, January 24 to 28, are under
way by the Worthington Pump & Machinery
Corp. of Harrison, N. J. The exhibit
will feature the manufacturer's line
of refrigeration and air conditioning products.
Alfred Dangler jr. recently took charge
of operations at the Star Mfg. Co. division
of the Hercules Steel Products Corp. as
vice-president of the parent company.
B. P. Edelman of the Alton Mfg. Co. reports
that during the past season more than
300 theatres were equipped with Alton
evaporative coolers. The evaporative cooler
uses a blower and air washer, built together
in a compact, low-cost unit.
Write for FREE Illustrated Descriptive Circular or see your dealer.
WENZEL PROJECTOR CO
2505-19 S. STATE ST.
CHICAGO 16, ILL.
Fresh Flowers may be the next item
available in theatre lobbies as the result
of a new vending machine recently developed
by Frosted Food O'Mat, Inc. of
California. The new self-service flower
dispenser delivers a package of flowers,
kept fresh by proper refrigeration, when
the button is pressed. Flowers and prices
are visible to the customer to aid in selection.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTTOW

1
Eliminates
Elmer H. Beneke is
the new regional 16mm
sales representative for
the Chicago area of
the Radio Corp. of
America. Announcement
of the appointment
was made by
O. V. Swisher, manager
of the RCA visual
products group.
Beneke has been active
in 16mm sound film
Elmer H.
projector sales for RCA since 1946.
Benecke
From the TESMA Tattler comes news
of the recent personnel changes at the
DeVry Corp., Chicago. H. M. Fisher, eastern
representative for the corporation for
20 years is taking over the job of sales
manager, formerly held by Bob Engel. H.
Tennant, formerly assistant to Fisher, will
assume responsibility as eastern representative.
Engel is now sales manager of the Kords, Inc. J. L. Coleman will be in charge
GoldE Mfg. Co. of Chicago.
of sales at Whitney Blake.
John B. Cook, president of The Whitney
Blake Co., and Koiled Kords, Inc., both of
Hamden, Conn., announces that Col. E. L.
Love is now in charge of all sales promotional
and advertising activities of both
companies.
Besides his new duties, Colonel Love
will continue as sales manager of Koiled
William Glenn Balch, architect, and
Louis L. Bryan, recently opened the doors
of a newly constructed ultramodern 2,000-
square foot building at 2933 Rowena
Ave. in Los Angeles to play host to
150 well-wishers who represented various
interests in the theatrical, the drive-in
fOR*
and the general construction business.
Pioneers in the construction of drive-ins,
Balch and Bryan welcomed, among other
open house celebrants, director-producer
Lloyd Bacon; Harold Caballero of Pacific
Drive-In Theatres; Donald Guttman, owner
of the Minnesota Midland chain of theatres
now constructing drive-ins in San
Pedro and Compton; Jack Anderson, Pomona
and Ontario drive-in operator, and
C. G. Hokanson, specialist in electric and
air conditioning contracting.
The Refresh-O-Vend Co. joins the list
of supply dealers as vending machine distributors.
Behind the new company are
M. E. Beaver, M. W. Hufendick and D. F.
Godfrey. Offices are at Libertyville, 111.
Peerless Film Processing Corp. of New
York announces the extension of their film
treatment, which prolongs the serviceable
life of film, to the midwest. Peerless
equipment has been installed in the laboratories
of Reid H. Ray Film Industries,
2269 Ford Parkway, St. Paul, Minn., and
Atlas Film Corp., 1111 South Boulevard,
Oak Park, 111.
David Weinstock, president of Raybond
Theatres Corp., which operates 17 theatres
in the New York, New Jersey and
Connecticut territory, has signed a service
contract with Altec Service for all Raybond
houses. The contract was negotiated
by M. N. Wolf for Altec and William
Quinn for Raybond.
^hb Henry M. Fisher
the newly appointed
J^^**^!
M; ^H vice- president in
P I charge of sales and
W «•» —. M

.
color
Matthes
Appointments Announced
By General Electric
The General Electric
Co. announces the
appointments of Louis
H. Matthes to the post
of general sales manager
of the air condit
i o n i n g department
and Harold B. Donley
as the new manager of
marketing of air conditioning.
News of the
appointments came
from Harold F. Smiddy.
general manager of
the Bloomfield plant.
As general sales manager. Matthes will
be responsible for field sales activities,
commercial engineering,
national user
sales and activities of
customer sales divisions.
He has been
with GE since 1921.
Donley comes to GE
Ik
from the Hunter Fan
and Ventilating Co. of
Memphis. Among the
activities falling under
his jurisdiction will be
product and market H. B. Donley
sales, the field sales
organization, market research, advertising
and sales promotion, product planning,
commercial engineering.
BUILT TO LAST
¥> depend
GORDo s
G - 8 3
Preeition dei.gned
, ruggedly
constructed, factory "aged"
and thoroughly le. led For
SMOOTH OPERATION
CONSTANT POWER SUPPLY
LONG LIFE
Cuaranteed fori, 200 operating
hourt when uied
at their proper rating.
Because Poblocki aluminum poster cases are
formed of the heaviest possible aluminum extrusions
of any case made. And that means a lifetime
of beauty for your theatre front, because
these cases can be alumilited in sparkling color
that remains lustrous and brilliant
throughout the life of the case.
ASK YOUR DEALER
— HI KNOWS
STUB ROD
CONTROL BOX
Records what happens between
box office and door— every minute,
every hour, every day!
Pays for itself in very short order!
AUTOMATICKET^f^^SYSTEMS
formation write to:
GENERAL REGISTER CORPORATION
36-20 Tiirtftlir. Street Loot Island City I, N.T.
Oi IHt eutHOIIZiO SUMlf OlAtll IN TOUt AllA
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: January
'
Most Economical
Unit on the Market!
861 RCA Employes
Get Service Pins
Gold watches and 25-year service pins
were presented to 861 qualifying employes
of the RCA Victor division, Radio Corp. of
America, at ceremonies held in principal
plant locations, during the second week of
December.
The most extensive ceremonies, honoring
726 employes of the Camden plant.
the home office and the RCA Service Co.
were held in the Grand ballroom of the
Hotel Bellevue - Stratford. Philadelphia.
Frank M. Folsom. president of the RCA
was the principal speaker.
Lees Expands Schedule
On Carpet Advertising
James Lees & Sons Co. of Bridgeport, Pa..
announces the continuation and expansion
of its unique carpet advertising campaign.
Separate campaigns are being prepared for
the consumer, trade and contract carpet
publication schedules.
Edwin C. Pease, director of advertising,
said that seven promotions are being
planned in which Lees customers will have
an opportunity to tiein with advertising
and promotion.
Ads breaking in late February and early
March will call attention to the 1949 Carpet
Fashions opening, being supported by
Lees in an industrywide style promotional
effort.
Display Modernized
TELESEAL
a low cost, neoprene-jacketed
distribution wire, can be buried
quickly and inexpensively to
give trouble-free service for
many years. Originally developed
for railroad signal systems and
rural communications it is unaffected
by moisture and can be
used in wet or dry locations. Its
low original cost, its inexpensive
installation and its long life
make TELESEAL ideal for driveins
everywhere. Write for prices
and complete technical information.
TELL THE WORLD IT'S TELESEAL
FOR ECONOMY AND EFFECTIVE,
LOW COST, UNDERGROUND
SOUND
TRANSMISSION
...FOR APPLICATIONS WHERE
COST IS IMPORTANT!
• Tickets Readily Grasped from Easy-
Reading Dispenser Tabs
• Magazine loading Ticket Units— Sturdily
Made, Attractively Finished
• Additional Magazines May Be Added
• Rub-Proof Satin Chrome Top Plate
An
Theatre Supply Dealers
GoldE Manufacturing Co.
\710-A W. Madison St.. Chicaao 7. U.S.A.
The above photo shows the Tower Theatre.
Houston. Tex., all "dressed up" in
new changeable copy display equipment.
The display panels are two openings 57
inches high and 19 inches long. The
frames are four-row standard master multiple
41 design with flashed glass. Wagner
ten-inch red. blue and green translucent
plastic letters and four-inch blue
plastic letters were used with Flexword
frames. The installation was handled by
the Texas Neon Sign Co. of Houston.
THE WHITNEY BLAKE COMPANY
BOX K
HAMDEN, CONNECTICUT
SEND ME TELESEAl INFORMATION
NAME
COMPANY
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
WELL BUILT WIRES SINCE 189«
BOXOFFICE
:
8. 1949

HEROD JIMERSON — Owner-
Manager, Liberty Theatre, North
Little Rock, Arkansas—writes:
"RCA Service is a business
insurance that solves any
projection room problems we
might have."
To get the benefits of RCA Service
—write: RCA SERVICE COMPANY,
INC., Radio Corporation of America,
Camden, New Jersey.
FOREST MFG. CORP 9 11 WEST PARK ST. NEWARK 2. N. I.
UsAIRco's Eastern Division
Now Under N. R. Miller
United States Air Conditioning Corp. announces
that Norton R. Miller has recently
joined their organization
as manager of
the company's eastern
sales division
which includes the
New England states,
part of New York and
part of Pennsylvania.
This sales division will
continue to headquarter
at the New York
office of usAIRco. located
at 420 Lexington,
New York.
Having been associated
with the Trane Co. for 11 years, with
the air conditioning division of Chrysler
and with several air conditioning engineering
firms. Miller is well known in eastern
air
conditioning circles.
Norton R. Miller
Dr. R. L. Garman Wins
Certificate oi Merit
The President's Certificate of Merit for
services in the wartime Office of Scientific
Research and Development was recently
awarded Dr. Raymond L. Garman of General
Precision Laboratory, Inc.
The award was presented by Maj. Gen.
Lawrence C. Jaynes. commander of the
New York-New Jersey-Delaware District of
the First army.
Since the close of the war Dr. Garman
has worked in the field of large screen
theatre television and precision electronic
instruments. He is director of research for
the General Precision Laboratory. Inc., a
subsidiary of General Precision Equipment
Three New Members
Join TESMA
The TESMA Tattler announces three
new members of the Theatre Equipment
Supply Mfrs. Ass'n; The Drive-In Theatre
Equipment Co., Inc., 2110 Superior
Ave.. Cleveland. Ohio, represented by E. B.
Brady, sales manager: the Metropole Machine
Corp., 36-56 34th St., Long Island
City, N. Y.. represented by J. P. Latil, sales
manager, and Moonlight Movie System,
655 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialot. Calif., represented
by P. A. Ratcliff. sales manager.
Many Canadian Theatres
Built Since 1945
A total of 195 new theatres have sprung
up in Canada since the removal of the
building restrictions in December 1945.
Eight of the theatres are drive-ins. Results
of a survey, taken by the Canadian
Film Weekly, show 99 theatres currently
under construction and plans for 102 additional
houses being considered.
Theatre accommodations in the Dominion
have risen some 80.000 seats as the
result of remodeling projects taken on since
1945.
Sound Track Articles
To Be Reprinted
Motiograph announces that a book is being
published which will comprise all of
the important articles which have appeared
in the Sound Track since its beginning.
The book will be known as the "Sound
Track Book of the Theatre." It will contain
articles on theatre equipment, management
and operation, revised and edited
to bring them up to date, and will be about
450 pages in size.
Here is an opportunity to secure an encyclopedia
of information on the motion
picture theatre for everyone in the show
business.
The price of the book will be $10. A copy
may be ordered by sending a remittance in
advance or a request to have one of the
books forwarded COD for the purchase
price, plus postage, when available. The
address of the Sound Track, is 1001 Washington
Blvd., Chicago 7, 111.
Boltailex Lecture, Display
Added to College Course
A permanent exhibit and lecture on
manufacturing and handling of Boltaflex
all-plastic upholstery has been added to
the North Carolina state college course in
furniture manufacturing and management.
The inclusion of Boltaflex all-plastic upholstery
in this accredited furniture course,
backed by the Southern Furniture Mfgrs.
Ass'n, marks the first time that a recognized
furniture course has devoted considerable
time to a discssion of the special
problems involved in handling plastic upholstery.
The first Boltaflex lecture was delivered
by Larry Marsden, southern representative
of Bolta Products. The permanent
display shows the processes involved in the
production of Boltaflex from the initial
vinyl resins, plasticizers and pigments
through to the final embossing process.
Eastman Kodak's Dr. Mees
Gets Swedish Medal
The Photographic Society of Sweden
has awarded the Adelskolds' gold medal
to Dr. C. E. K. Mees. vice-president in
charge of research for Eastman Kodak Co.,
for his contributions to the progress of
photography.
Dr. Mees acknowledged the award in a
shortwave broadcast beamed to Sweden
and other European countries. He congratulated
the society on its 60th anniversary
and reviewed 40 years of progress
in the photographic industry. The society
is the largest organization of amateur
photographers in Sweden.
The broadcast was the first of a series
of talks on scientific photography which
the Kodak scientist has been asked to record
for broadcast to Europe over facilities
of the World Wide Broadcasting Foundation.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

I
forces,
. H.
: January
Divisional Set-Up Changes
Announced by Altec
M. Bessey, Altec Service Corp. exec-
Hutive vice-president, announces that in a
move to modernize and equalize the terriitorial
coverage of the company's field
and to simplify the present managerial
framework, the areas comprising
[the New York, Philadelphia and Boston
districts have been consolidated into a
[newly created eastern division, with headquarters
at 250 W. 57th St., New York.
I Promoted to the new post of division
[manager is C. S. Perkins, former manager
| of the New York district, and previously
AUTOMATIC
CONTROLS
FOR
"CONTOUR"
(FESTOON TYPE)
CURTAINS
Smooth,. Silent Sure
One-button
Control
head of
the wartime activities of the electronic
division of Altec which was responsible
for top-secret development of navy
training devices. A. J. Redemacher has
been upped to the new position of business
manager of the division.
R. D. Fairbanks. R. E. Pierce, L. J. Patton
and P. J. Pfeiff are named field managers,
and L. J. Hacking, D. A. Peterson,
B. Sanford and M. N. Wolf have been
appointed sales representatives.
"The new divisional setup perfected for
Altec in the east is being worked out in
detail for application on a national basis
to the balance of the areas in the Altec
organization," Bessey said.
TESMA Bylaws Amended
To Admit Associates
Associate members may now be admitted
to the Theatre Equipment and Supply
Manufacturers Ass'n, as the result of an
amendment to the bylaws voted on at the
recent convention in St. Louis.
Among those eligible for associate membership
are architects, builders, advertising
agencies, finance companies and other
allied
businesses.
Applications for membership may be obtained
by writing to Roy Boomer, Secretary,
TESMA, 4356 Washington Blvd., Chicago
24, m.
New Projector Handbook
By National Carbon
A new fourth edition of National Carbon's
projector handbook is off the press. The
first new edition since
1935, the handbook
contains up - to - date
information, charts
tables, photos and
drawings designed to
aid projectionists in
getting top efficiency
in projector carbon
operation.
The handbook covers
such subjects as
the physics and measurement
of light, progress in projection
lighting, the various types of high-intensity
and low-intensity arcs, and carbon arc
projection for 16mm film. Tips are given
on adjustment and alignment of projector
carbons, the amperage and voltage requirements
of each size and type, operating
precautions and the proper care of
electrical equipment and optical systems.
Distribution of the handbook is being
done through the company's Cleveland office
and copies can be had by writing National
Carbon Co., Inc., P. O. Box 6087,
Cleveland, Ohio.
It's best to buy theatre carpets that will
last a long time because recarpeting upsets
the entire house.
Thinking of
«7c0NI>f®" NS?
Your curtain control problem is our
problem. Whether or not you use
Vallen guaranteed equipment, let us
submit the answer.
WRITE FOR FREE CATALOG
VALLEN, INC
221 BLUFF ST. AKRON, OHIO
The World's Largest and Oldest Manufacturers
of Proscenium Equipment
BOXOFTICE :
8. 1949

YOUR HOUSE IS YOUR PATRONS'
J)/ieam Castle
BEAUTIFY IT FOR
Foreign Dealer Displays
Feature Simplex Line
Here are photos showing the activities
INDEX
Bifflen urn/fice
of two of National Theatre Supply's foreign
branches, released by Art Baldwin,
export manager of the firm.
The top photo is of the new store of Cia
Comercial Condor, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The store has a spacious selling floor
TBES UNDER OMTIOL
5HBW BROTHERS LTD.
NAVY SURPLUS DEVRY XD
TRANSPORTABLE 35mm PROJECTORS
owoy fci/ow original gov't cost
with 3000' magazines, lenses. 1000 W CCQC
lamps, amplifier, speaker (dual jnit). 3*^^**
S. 0. S. CINEMA SUPPLY CORP.
Dep! C. 602 W. 52nd St.. New York 19. N. Y.
and modern, glass-enclosed executive offices.
Senor Carlos Glucksmann is president
of the firm.
The lower photo shows the booth of
Shaw Bros.. Ltd.. at the federation of the
Malaya trade exhibition in Singapore. The
firm has many interests including the
operation of theatres in locations indicated
on the wall map.
Both firms distribute Simplex projection
and sound equipment.
A Clarifying Statement
By Carbons, Inc.
A statement concerning the products
sold by his company has been issued
by Ed Lachman, president of Carbons, Inc.
He said that Lorraine carbons, which his
company distributes, are not to be confused
with any foreign carbons, especially
the Sun -Arc carbons which were sold prior
to the war. Sun-Arc carbon is no longer
being manufactured.
Lachman said the statement was made
•'to straighten out a misconception that
has cropped up in some quarters when
Lorraine carbon is discussed as a French
carbon. Lachman '• further states that it
is his company's policy to stock all sizes
of carbon in quantities which surpass
the amount necessary to insure the exhibitor
of a continuous supply of Lorraine
carbons.

BAROMETER • EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
CHART • REVIEW DIGEST #. SHORTS CHART
VS • FEATURE REVIEWS • EXPLOITIPS BookinGuide
OXOFFICE
FIRST RUN REPORTS
This chart shows the records made by
pictures in five or more of the 21 key cities
checked. As new runs are reported, ratings
are added and averages revised.
BAROMETER
TOP HIT OF THE WEEK
The Paleface-
Seattle 230
Cincinnati 220
San Francisco 185
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.
I 2 3
s U \l
* i
Adventures of Gallant Bess (EL) 100
Angel on the Amazon (Rep) 90
Apartment for Peggy (20th-Pox) 140 140 120 95 167 100 125 120 125 140 135 125 110 130 120 160 130 125
100 65 120
Best Years of Our Lives, The (RKO) 150 150 123
Blood on the Moon (RKO) 115 110 165 135 127
Code of Scotland Yard (Rep) 100 90 98
Coroner Creek (Col) 95 86 85 110 85 110 125 100 110 110 125 140 90 110 103 115 100 90 100 135 106
Decision of Christopher Blake, The (WB) 80
Disaster (Para) 100 100 93
Every Girl Should Be Married (RKO)
Fighting Father Dunne (RKO) 100 100 115 150 130 100 100 70 92 105 80 110 120
Gay Intruders, The (20th-Fox) 100 100 90 80 110 80 96
Gentleman From Nowhere (Col) 75 100 100 85 100 100 100 95 100 100 96
Hatter's Castle (Para) 70 95 95 110 90 100 100 100 90 105 100 105 60
of Home iMGM) 110 90 90 90 100 80 95 120 105 115 100
Indian Agent (RKO)
Jiggs and Maggie in Society (Mono) 100 90 90 100 80 100
Jungle Patrol (20th-Fox)
Kiss the Blood Off My Hands (U-I) 95 100 60 90 120 125 100 110 150 115 175 120 116
Man From Colorado, The (Col) 150 130 116
Mexican Hayride (U-I)

:
i
Mon.
: January
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 welcome.
COLUMBIA
Black Eagle, the Story of a Horse (Col)—
William Bishop. Virginia Patton, Gordon Jones.
Called "The Story of a Horse" by O. Henry,
this is a very good western which pleased big
business on Fri.. Sat. Play it—E. M. Freiburger.
Paramount Theatre, Dewey, Okla.
Small town patronage. * * *
Down to Earth (Col)—Rita Hayworth, Larry
Parks, Marc Piatt. What a dog this show was!
i at the boxoffice with some walkouts.
When a salesman can tell you this is a good
show, look out. Played Sun., Mon. Weather:
Cold.—Ray S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile,
Minn. Rural and small town patronage. *
Mating of Millie, The (Col)—Glenn Ford.
Evelyn Keyes, Ron Randell. This is a very
good program picture with plenty of laughs.
It held up fair at the
day only, Tuesday.
boxoffice. Played one
Weather: Fair.—Vincent
H. Rost, Dixie Theatre, New Madrid, Mo. Small
*
town and rural patronage.
no business and we paid extra coin for this
but it keeps patrons from my theatre. It is the
worst serial I ever have seen in the past 12
years. Don't play it. Played on the Wed.,
Thurs. change.—Ray S. Hanson, Fox Theatre,
Fertile. Minn Rural and small town patronage
EAGLE LION
Adventures of Gallant Bess (EL) Cc
Mitchell, Audrey Long, Fuzzy Knight. This is
another good Eagle Lion picture similar to
"Northwest Stampede" and almost as good.
The scenery and color are beautiful. Lots
of good comments and better than average
draw. Played Fri., Sat.'—L. Brazil jr., New
Theatre, Bearden, Ark. Small town and rural
-
patronage. * ' *
Law of the Lash (EL)—Al "Lash" LaRue. Al
"Fuzzy" S:. John, Lee Roberts. This is good
and old "Fuzzy" is what the kids like as
the grownups. Good draw and more
like this will be okay here. Played Wednesday.
Weather: Good—W. H. Swan, Auditorium
Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural patronage.
of the Seven Moons EL)—Phyllis
If you
Although we
it was before Chris'mas. we didn't
-
ild get. Played
Mon.. T Cold—Harland
Plaza Theatre, Tilbury. Ont. General
patronage
—
—
Noose Hangs High, The (EL)—Lou Costello,
Bud Abbott, Cathy Downs. Well, to make it
short and sweet, our patrons got a let-down
as this feature never came close to their picture,
"Buck Privates Come Home." But we
can't blame them—it was the story that did
the dirty work. Of course > there were the
laughs and we did all right at the boxoffice.
Played Sat., Sun. Weather: Good.—Sam Holmberg.
Regal Theatre, Sturgis, Sask. Rural patronage.
* * *
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
B. F.'s Daughter (MGM) — Barbara Stanwyck,
Van Heflin. Charles Coburn. This is
no good for small towns—a lemon if I ever
played one. Played Sun., Mon. Weather:
Good —W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Chalhs.
Fuller Brush Man, The (Col)—Red Skelton,
Ida. Small town and country
Janet Blair, Don McGuire. Red Skelton usually
draws them in and this was one good show. Captains Courageous
patronage. *
Reissue.
(MGM) —
If Everybody went out laughing. you haven't
Here is
Freddie Bartholomew, Spencer Tracy.
this yet, all played one by means do so. another reissue that tops the stuff they put
-.ce was very good. Played Wednesday.
out this or last year. As I have said in BOXfield
Weather: Fair.—Elmer C. Erickson, West-
OFFICE before, reissues do better business
Theatre, Westfield, Wis. Rural and small
* than the new stuff. We have never had a
town patronage.
failure with one yet. Played Wed., Thurs.
Seed.—Sam Holmberg, Regal Theatre,
.'.':::.--::
Sturgis, Sask. Rural patronage. * *
*
On an Island With You (MGM)—Esther
Williams, Peter Lawford, Ricardo Montalban.
This is a very good Technicolor musical.
liked it even better than "Fiesta." We had
I
the luck of getting a good print and the sound
was good. The roads were very icy so the
farmers didn't come in. Played Wednesday.
Weather: Wet, and lots of ice.—Elmer C.
Erickson, Westfield Theatre, Westfield, Wis.
Rural and small town patronage.
On an Island With You (MGM)—Esther
Williams, Peter Lawford, Jimmy Durante. The
Films of This Caliber
Boon to Show Business
BRIDE GOES WILD, THE (MGM)—
Van Johnson, June Allyson, Butch Jenkins.
Now here is a picture! If the producers
would continue to turn out pictures
of this caliber there would be
nothing wrong with show business. The
last ton minutes rolls them in the aisles
but the entire picture is very good. The
word-of-mouth advertising kept the second
dav's business nearly as good as the
first. Player 1 . Sun . Weather: Good.
—W. L. Stratton. Lyric Theatre, Challis,
Ida. Small town and country patronage.
*
Here Is One Picture
He May Bring Back
16 FATHOMS* DEEP (Mono) — Lon
Chaney, Arthur Lake, Lloyd. Bridges.
This has beautiful color and a fair trailer.
It is really interesting—an entertaining
little show. It should stand alone and do
good. I had a swell crowd and 90 per
cent good comments. I wish I had
played this two clays—may bring it back.
Played Tuesday. Weather: Good. — Bob
Curtis. Capitol Theatre, Meridian, Tex.
Small town and fanner patronage. *
picture is okay and the color nice but busine!
just not in line with the film rental. Met
musicals are just not doing big business her
Some of them are good and some are nc
This one was pretty good. Maybe we have
play them too old for our locality. Playe
Sun.. Mon., Tues. Weather: Good—H. A. A:
derson, Roxy Theatre, St. Ansgar, Iowa. Smc
town and rural patronage.
estate of the Union (MGM)—S;
Katharine Hepburn. Van Johnson. This is
good picture, slightly hammy in spots, wii
more political truth than fiction. Spenci
Tracy is well liked here and I credit him wii
drawing the best crowd amending the theat
since the advent of unusually severe w:nt<
weather. This picture is ol nc
children and their absence prevented us fro
making any money. Played Sat., Sun. Weathe
Bad.—Theo B. Brush. Rex Theatre, Richfiel
Idaho. Small town and rural patronage.
Date With Judy. A (MGM)—Wallace Beery, Summer Holiday (MGM)—Mickey ?
Selena Royle, Carmen Miranda. Mr. Exhibitor,
if you run MGM pictures, don't throw this ture drew fairly well but I can't se-:
Gloria DeHaven. Walter Huston. Th
one around. Run it and give it your best It is a fairly nonsensical affair. The c: :
playing time. Business was good Sunday and songs were not too bad. Played Sun
Relentless 'Co!)—Robert Young, Marguerite better than average Monday. Weather. Okay. Weather: Okay.—D. W. Trisko, Ritz 7
—Vincent H. Rost, Dixie Theatre, New Madrid,
Mo. Small town and rural patronage. *
Tarzan's New York Adventure (MGM —Re-
Jerome, Ariz. Mining patronage.
Superman (Col)—Serial.
Rural small
Chapman, Willard Parker. This is a superwestern
in every respect. They'll love it. The
color was good. Robert Young and Marguerite
Chapman
Good News (MGM)—June Allyson, Peter issue. Johnny Weissmuller, Maureen Z
were well cast. Played Fri., Sat.,
Lawford, Patricia Marshall. Just fair entertainment
that
van. John Sheffield. I recently said "Ta
Sun. Weather: Good.—Frank Sabin, Majestic
Tarzcr.
Theatre. Eureka, Mont. "Small town patronage.
Wcr
failed to please.
failed at the boxoffice and
No business, as the preview
Secret
had
Treasure"
forgotten
was
about
the
this
best
one.
* *
bo:h nights laughter lifted crowds and the
all that £ep: them away, with yelling called
This is terrible singing. Played Wed., Thurs. Weather: Cool.
—Ray S. Hanson, Fox Theatre, Fertile, Minn.
and town patronage.
roof. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair
Pat W. Murphy, Queen Theatre. Holliday. Tex.
Oil field worker patronage.
Three Musketeers. The (MGM)—Lar
ner. Gene Kelley, June Allyson. This is
production with top color and top
Gene Kelley is outstanding and it w-
by all. Played Sun., Mon., Tues. We
Good—W. T. Zimmerman, Vita Theatre Warrenton.
Mo. Small town patronage.
MONOGRAM
OBabe Ruth Story, The (Mono)—
Bendix Claire Trevor. Charles Bickfc:;
picture is good and William Bendix :
for the part. However, it only did c
business here. Played Sat. preview, S-r. —
L. Brazil jr.. New Theatre, Bearden. Ari:
town and rural patronage.
WBabe Ruth Story, The (Mono)— '
Bendix, Claire Trevor, Charles Bickfor"
William Bendix arfd Claire Trevor, here is a
show that will draw them in and satisfy all.
It is a good show for any day of the week.
Business was good. Played Thurs Fri
Weather: Warm and clear.—Vincent H. Rost.
Dixie Theatre, New Madrid, Mo. Smc:
*
td patronage.
Dude Goes West, The (Mono)—Eddie
Gale Storm, James Gleason. This lit
the ticket for the small town
ture is just
of comedy and it will satisfy the
fans. Tl better than 3
and satisfied. Played Fri.. Sat. Weathe:
—W. L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis
Small town and country patronage.
Smuggler's Cove (Mono)—Leo Gorcey,
V
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide
:
8. 1949

: January
— —
and full of action, and the only thing that
can be said for this one is that it is definitely
one of their best in a couple of years.
Played just before Christmas to a good crowd,
that loved it. Played Tuesday. Weather:
Good.—Bob Curtis, Capitol Theatre, Meridian,
Tex. Small town and farmer patronage. *
PARAMOUNT
Adventure Island (Para) — Rory Calhoun,
Rhonda Fleming, Paul Kelly. A good, fine
picture and being in Cinecolor, that much
better. The "Rhythm" two-reeler has something
special and made a nice program.
Played Wednesday. Weather: Cold.—W. H.
Swan, Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural
patronage.
Albuquerque (Para)—Randolph Scott, Barbara
Britton, Catherine Craig. A lovely picture
and we'll bet everyone liked who has
been in Albuquerque.
it
We did nice business
Urith it and are .'or it, too. Played Thurs.,
Pri.. Sat. Weather: Cold.—Harland Rankin,
Erie Theatre, Wheatley, Ont. General patronage.
* * *
Big Clock. The (Para)—Ray Milland, Charles
Laughton, Maureen O'Sullivan. Although the
murderer was known by the audience, it was
well liked. I thought the acting was very good.
This one brought average attendance. Played
Sunday. Weather: Good.—Elmer C. Erickson,
Westfield Theatre, Westfield, Wis. Rural and
small town patronage.
Big Clock. The (Para)—Ray Milland, Charles
Laughton, Maureen O'Sullivan. This is a
pretty good picture but business was poor
on it. Ray Milland and Charles Laughton are
a couple of English stars who never did draw
here—and maybe I played it too close to
Christmas. The show is okay if you can get
them in to look at it. Played Wed., Thurs.
E. M. Freiburger, Paramount Theatre, Dewey,
Okla. Small town and rural patronage. * * *
Dream Girl (Para)—Betty Hutton, Macdonald
Carey, Patric Knowles. All we did was
to dream with this one, and the second night
it wasn't even a dream. Pass it up. Played
Wed., Thurs. Weather: Cold—Harland Rankin,
Beau Theatre, Belle River, Ont. General patronage.
* * *
Hold That Blonde (Para)—Eddie Bracken,
Veronica Lake, Albert Dekker. Eddie Bracken
is entitled to better parts than this unless
Paramount is trying to get rid of him. Business
was terrible. Played with "Swamp Fire." The
Warner Bros, newsreel was good. Played
Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair.—Ray S. Hanson,
Fox Theatre, Fertile, Minn. Rural and small
*
town patronage.
Miss Tatlock's Millions (Para)—Wanda Hendrix,
Barry Fitzgerald, John Lund. This is a
good comedy. Paramount again comes out
with a poor trailer, which seems to be a habit.
The picture drew all types and was enjoyed
by all but the kids. It is worth playing anywhere.
The pre-Christmas slump held off
several. Business was average, though.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good—Bob
The Good Old Pictures
Lauded by Exhibitors
Instead of talking about "the good old
days," many of our exhibitors speak
wistfully of "the good old pictures"
though these were supposed to bring
their good days with them. In fact, in
addition to comments on reissues which
draw better than some of the late pictures,
we have received this terse comment
from Glen B. Wittstruck of the
Rio Theatre at Meeker, Colo.:
"They all smell, for the last three
years." He just can't be happy about
the new product.
town and farmer patronage. *
Paleface, The (Para)—Bob Hope, lane
Russell,
Robert Armstrong. Have not played this
yet myself—saw it at a trade screening. This
is low-brow "underwear" burlesque comedy.
Why Hope would make this is beyond me.
Surely he must think something of his standing
as a family entertainer. Lay off on Sunday
or preferred time.—W. T. Zimmerman,
Vita Theatre, Warrenton, Mo. Small town patronage.
*
Unconquered (Para)—Gary Cooper, Paulette
Goddard, Boris Karloff. This is good but
the allocation is too high. Like most of Paramount's
pictures, it didn't give us a chance
to show a profit. Played Sat., Sun. Weather:
Good.—Ben Brinck, West Point Theatre, West
Point, Iowa. Rural patronage. * * *
Unconquered (Para)—Gary Cooper, Paulette
Goddard, Boris Karloff. This is a very
good picture in Technicolor. We did very
well on this in spite of the high film rental
and the picture held up well for a two-day
run. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.—W.
L. Stratton, Lyric Theatre, Challis, Ida. Small
*
town and country patronage.
RKO RADIO
UBachelor and the Bobby-Soxer. The (RKO)
Cary Grant, Myrna Loy, Shirley Temple. What
a show—and all said so, too. Shirley is cute
as ever and did a fine job in this one. So
did Myrna Loy and Cary Grant. We want
more like this. They never will get through
praising pictures like this. One fellow asked
me, "Can I see it over again?" Played Sat.,
Sun. Weather: Cold and windy.—W. H. Swan,
Surprised Film Was Good,
Not a 'Lot of Kissing'
GOLDEN EARRINGS (Para) — Ray
Milland, Marlene Dietrich, Murvyn Vye.
We all got a surprise in this picture as
we figured that it was one of those pictures
that have a lot of kissing in them,
but boy, it had a doggoned good, downto-earth
story of Milland trying to get
out of Germany when this last war was
declared. I believe it is well worth the
time to play it. Played Wed., Thurs.
Weather: Good.—Sam Holmberg, Regal
Theatre, Sturgis, Sask. Rural patronage.
* * *
Auditorium Theatre, Roscoe, S. D. Rural patronage.
* * *
«Best Years of Our Lives. The (RKO)—
Myrna Loy, Fredric March, Dana Andrews.
This picture ran 172 minutes but there is
really entertainment in every foot of this
film. Comments were all good from our patrons.
Good business both days. Played Sun.,
Mon. Weather: Very cold.—Vincent H. Rost,
Dixie Theatre, New Madrid, Mo. Small town
and rural patronage.
OBishop's Wife, The (RKO)—Cary Grant,
Loretta Young, David Niven. Maybe other
places, but not here! As I keep trying to
explain to the film salesmen, oil field roughnecks
are not ordinary show patrons. Played
Sun., Mon. Weather: Fair.—Mrs. Pat W. Murphy,
Queen Theatre, Holliday, Tex. Oil field .
worker patronage. * *
Fighting Father Dunne (RKO)—Pat O'Brien,
Darryl Hickman, Una O'Connor. This picture
did above average business for our midweek
change and my town is 95 per cent Protestant.
It was a good picture and enjoyed by all,
but might have done better had we given it
better playing time. Played Wed., Thurs.
Weather: Not too good.—H. A. Anderson, Roxy
Theatre, St. Ansgar, Iowa. Small town and
*
rural patronage.
Fighting Father Dunne (RKO)—Pat O'Brien,
Darryl Hickman, Charles Kempner. Business
is usually slow before Christmas and I guess
He Wants Buddy Rogers
In More Pictures
AN INNOCENT AFFAIR
(UA)—Fred
MacMurray, Madeleine Carroll, Charles
"Buddy" Rogers. This is fair comedy that
miscasts MacMurray. Buddy Rogers' appearance
was liked by the audience. He
should be in more pictures. Business on
this off 40 per cent. Played Sun., Mon.
Weather: Good.—W. T. Zimmerman. Vita
Theatre, Warrenton, Mo. Small town
patronage. *
it started on this one, although it is a very
good picture that has a little of everything
in it. Played Wednesday. Weather: Cold —
Elmer C. Erickson, Westfield Theatre, Westfield,
Wis. Rural and small town patronage. *
Fun and Fancy Free (RKO)—Disney cartoon
with Edgar Bergen, Charlie McCarthy.
This picture was a failure. People do not
like these any more. Take it out of circulation
This is the poorest we ever had. We
lost a great amount of money on it.—A. H.
Kuhlman, Bijou Theatre, Ray, N. D. Small town
and rural patronage. *
Melody Time (RKO)—Disney cartoon with
Roy Rogers, Sons of the Pioneers. This is
entertainment of a kind. The kids came and
the grownups stayed away. The second night
everyone left by 10 p. m. so we shut .down
and shipped out the show. Business was slow.
Played Sun., Mon.—E. M. Freiburger, Paramount
Theatre, Dewey, Okla. Small town
patronage. * * *
WSister Kenny (RKO)—Rosalind Russell,
Alexander Knox, Dean Jagger. We put this
in as a big Christmas special and also played
"Calgary Stampede" and "Fight of the Wild
Stallions." Brother, was ' this ever a strong
program—the way the public went for it was
terrific. One thing sure, "Sister Kenny" is
one of the best features we ever played alter
it was so old. The print was in perfect shape
and the sound was excellent. If you have not
played this picture and can get hold of it,
do so, as it is really good. It is the story
of infantile
Weather:
paralysis.
Blizzard.—Sam
Played Sat..
Holmberg,
Mon.
Regal
*
Theatre, Sturgis, Sask. Rural patronage. * *
~Wild Horse Mesa (RKO)— Tim Holt, Nan
Leslie, Richard Martin. These Tim Holt westerns
are okay. Haven't run oh a bad one yet.
These do as well as any western and are
better liked than Autry pictures. Played Fri.,
Sat. Weather: Cold—Ray S. Hanson, Fox
Theatre, Fertile, Minn. Rural and small town
patronage. *
REPUBLIC
Angel in Exile (Rep)—John Carroll, Adele
Mara, Barton McLane. This is similar to
"Treasure of Sierra Madre" but moves along
faster and has a good love story. It also had
a better draw here and comments were good.
Played Wed., Thurs —L. Brazil jr., New Theatre,
Bearden, Ark. Small town and rural patronage.
* * *
Madonna of the Desert (Rep)—Lynne Roberts,
Donald Berry, Don Castle. We double
billed this with a western before Christmas.
Business was poor. They hadn't forgotten
"Madonna of the Seven Moons," which I
played prior to this. Played Fri., Sat. Weather:
Cold.—Harland Rankin, Plaza Theatre, Tilbury,
Ont.
General patronage.
Under Colorado Skies (Rep)—Monte Hale,
Adrian Booth. Paul Hurst. A decidedly poor
western in color of a sort. Even the rabid
western fans left muttering. Played Tues.,
Wed —Frank Sabin, Majestic Theatre, Eureka,
Mont.
Small town patronage.
SCREEN GUILD
My Dog Shep (SG)—Lanny Rees. Tom Neal.
(Continued on page 14)
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide :
8, 1949

[
(87)
Mua-Dr
I
FEATURE CHART
reature productions, listed by company, in order ot release. Number
IH
in square is no*.
release date. Production number is at right Number in parentheses is running tin
furnished by
R—is review
home office of distributor; checkup
date. PG—is Picture Guide page
with local exchanges is recomnwn
number. Symbol W indicates BOXOP
Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Symbol O indicates color photography.
MARCH 6
(71) Drama 815 uj (58) Western 855
Et] (77) Drama 817
(102) Drami 816
fj]
[J]
MAN FROM TEXAS
WESTWARD TRAIL ©ENCHANTED VALLEY |t] (93) Drami 849 RUTHLESS
Eddie Dean
James Craig
Alan Curtis-Ann Gwenn SUTTER'S GOLD
Zachary Scott
Lynn Barl
B—Mar. 27—PG-915 Edward Arnold
Louis Hayuard
Johnnie Johnston
g (85) Drama 818 Et] (86) Dnmi 848
lar. 27—PO-915
R—Mir. «—PO-908
OCTOBER MAN SEVEN SINNERS
John Mills
Markne Dietrlcb
R—Mar. JO—PG-91S John Wiyne
m (115) Musical 817
ga (76) Comedy 808
[|] (108) Dramo 820
©THREE DARING
ALIAS A GENTLEMA
B. F.'s DAUGHTER
DAUGHTERS
Wallace Beery
Barbara Stanwyck
Jeanette MacDooald
Tom Drake
Heflln
Jose Iturbl
Dorothy Patrick Hume Cronyn
Ctiarlea Cobum
B^lan. SI—P0-8M Buteb Jenkins
R—Feb. 21—PG-903
B—Feb. 28—PO-905
m (61) Drams 4711
CAGED FURY
Buster Crabbe
Richard Denning
Miry Belli Hughes
B—Feb 14—PG-8*9
ff] (76) Drama 4705
ROCKY
Roddy McDovall
Nlti Hunter
Gale 8henrood
ag. 14—PQ-969
IGON
ronlca
R—Feb.
Lake
7—PQ-8.7
MARCH 20
ig (63) Drama 9i
RETURN OF THE
WHISTLER
Michael Duane
Lenore Aubert
Richard Lane
K—Mar. 13—PO-91S
Reissue
ra (60) Drama 4710
ROSE OF THE RIO
GRANDE
Mortli
John Carroll
MARCH 27
(75) Drama 992
ADVENTURES IN
SILVERADO
B—Mar 13—PQ-912
ijsl (55) Western 966
WEST OF S0N0RA
Surrell-Burnette
R—Mir. 27—PO-918
(67) Drama 4712
RECKLESS
lam Eythe
Barbara Britton
—Feb. 21—PO-904
APRIL 3
iS (84) Drama 936
SIGN OF THE RAM
Susan Peters
R—Feb. 21—PG-904
g^ (66) Mus-Com 952
SONG OF IDAHO
Hoosler Hotsbots
R—Mar 27—PO-916
(146) Drami ,4725
[|]
3UNC0NQUERED
Gary Cooper
Paulette Goddird
Boris KarlofJ
Howard daSlltl
R—Oct. 4—PQ-862
APRIL 10
(67)
fU
Drama 914
MY DOG RUSTY
Ted Donaldson
John Litel
Ann lloran
II—May 1—PO-92!
RIVER
Eddie Don
R—Mar. 13—PG-911
(67) Dnmi 4708 ga (56) Western 4761 [J] (70) Drami 4712
J2J)
JTJ
(63) Western 4755
ANGELS' ALLEY OKLAHOMA BLUES DOCKS OF NEW
Leo Gorcey
Jimmy Wakely
ORLEANS
CROSSED TRAILS
Johnny Mick Brown
Genera Gray
Virginia Belmont
R—Aug. 21—PG-961
Lynne Carter
[t] (85) Drami AA5
Bowery Boys
R—Jan. 24—PO-S94
THE HUNTED
ton Foster
Feb. 7—PG-898
(T| (95) Drami 4713
THE BIG CLOCK
Ray Milland
Charles Laughton
"'
sen O'Sulllvan
R—Feb. 21—PG-904
APRIL 17
jTJ (69) Drama 909
PORT SAID
Gloria Henry
William Bishop
Steven Geny
B—Apr. 24—PG-923
Bud Abbott
Lou Costello
Cathy Downs
R—Apr. !•—PO-920
5} (92) Drami 821
©SUMMER HOLIDAY
Mickey Rooney
Gloria DeHiten
Walter Huston
B—Mar. 13—PG-91J
THE
APRIL
(62) OH
COBRA S
St j dli Ryan '
Richard Fraser
Leslie Brooks
It—June 12—*
§
(80) 111
TARZAN'S SEC
REASURE^
Reissue
fj] (69) Western 885
TROUBLE IN SUNDOWN
(Jl REMEMBER MAMA
Irene Dunne
Barbara Bel Geddes
Oscar Bomolka
Philip Dorn
v. IS—PO-911
Drama 705
SIDE STORY
Marsha Hunt
m Lundlgan
diaries Winnlnger
Oall Patrick
Gene Lockbart
R—Apr. S—PG-918
Ba (58) M'drami 71
"GHTNIN' IN THE
FOREST
Lynne Roberts
m Douglas
R—Apr. 24— PO-924
[s] (120) Dnmi I
MIRACLE OF THE
BELLS
Fred Macilurray
Villi
Frank Sinatra
K_Mar. 6—PG-90T
(T) (61) Novelty 728
OBILL AND COO
George Burton's Birds
R-Jan. 3—PG-887
(T) (63) Mus-West 654
©CALIFORNIA FIRE-
BRAND
R—.May 8—PO-928
(128) West-Dr 870
FORT APACHE
Henry Fonda
H—Mar. 13—PO-911
S3 (60) Western 754
BlfJLD FRONTIERSMAN
"Rocky" Lane
Eddy Waller
R— May 1—PG-925
(87)
OLD LOS
Ullim
(71) Western NC17
[J]
SILVER ON THE SAGE
William Boyd
('.
Mn Bmjm
55] (60) Western HC18
RENEGADE TRAIL
llliam Boyd
Russell Harden
(118) Dram* B(
GENTLEMAN'S
AGREEMENT
Gregory Peek
Dorothy McQulre
John Garfield
Celeste Bolm
B—Not. 12—PO-876
(68) Mystery 807
I) Mystery 808
THE CHALLENGE HALF PAST MIDNIGHT
Tom Cotmiy
Kent Taylor
June Vincent
Pecg? Knudsen
R—Feb 18—PO-906 R—Feb. 21—PG-903
(96) Drama 809 (84) Comedy 810
©AN IDEAL HUSBAND SITTING PRETTY
Paulette Goddird
Robert Young
Michael Wilding
ien O'Hara
Wynyard
Clifton Webb
Sir Aubrey Smith
Richard Haydn
R—Jan. 17—PG-891 Louise Allbritton
R—Feb. 28—PG-906
(95) Drami 8
OSCUDDA H00!
SCUDDA HAY1
lure llaier
Lon McCallister
Walter Brennin
.\nne Revere
Natalie Wood
R—Mar. 6—PG-908
(89) Drama 812
EET ME AT DAWN
William Eythe
Hazel Court
R—Mar 20—PO-914
(67) Draf
LET'S LIVE M
John Emery J
It—Feb. 21—
(66) Drsl
13 LEAD SOU
Tom Conway I
(60) Documentary
KINGS OF THE
OLYMPICS
BUI Slater
R—Mv. 6—PO-909
(120l I'raml
ARCH OF TRI
Ingrld B reman
Charles Boyer J
R—Feb. 21—
(96) Drama 654
©JASSY
Margaret Lockwood
Patricia Roe
Dennis Price
R—Feb. 14—PO-902
(104) Drama
A DOUBLE LIFE
Ronald Oilman
(96) Drami 6!
NAKED CITY
Barry Fltigerald
Dorothy Ha.-t
Howard Duff
R^lan. 31—PO-896
(801 Drama 653 (94) Musical 6
©BLACK BART CASBAH
Yvonne De Carlo
Puryei
Yvonne De Carlo
Lynn
Marta Toren
Jeffrey
R—Feb. 31—PO-986 R—May 15—PO-932
fin (78) Drami 717
BECAME A CRIMINAL
fS]Tl02) Drum 718
Bally Gray
AOVENTURE OF
ROBIN HOOD
Errol Flynn
mini de HltUlind
St) (94) Comedy 715
APRIL SHOWERS
Jack Carson
Sothern
Robert Aldi
R—Mar. 20—PO-91S
M (101) Drami 720
TO THE VICTOR
1'ennts Morgan
sea LlndTors
Apr. 3—PG-918
25 (104) Dlf
WINTER MEEll
Bette Darta . I
Janls Paige I
Jim Darts I
R—Apr. 10—1
(64 l Western New
DEADLINE
Sunset Carson
Pat Burling
(70) Cooedv relsnut
Ll'L ABNER
Mirthi O'DrlscoU
Edgar Kennedy
(57) Musical Reissue
ROAD TO H0LLYW0".
Blng Crosby
1 86 1 H-U
SECOND CHORUS
Paulette Goddird
(60) Western New
WESTERN TERROR
Date 'Ter" OTBrtea
Btmy Henry
(641 Western Reissue
WILD MUSTANG
Harry Carey
(60) Western Reissue
THE LAW COMES TO
TEXAS
Wild Bill" KUlott
(661 Western New Re)
SUNSET CARSON RIDES
AGAIN
RETURN OF 0AN1I
BOONE
Wild BUI" Bitot]
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide

„,
: January
i
1AY 1
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
MAY 8
jT] (70) Drama 813
OPEN SECRET
John Ireland
lune Randolph
R—Jan. 24—PO-893
MAY 15
(75) Drama 901 (67) Drama 921
[J]
BEST MAN WINS TRAPPED BY BOSTON
BLACKIE
Edgar Buchanan
R—May 8— PG-929
g (64) Western 963
WHIRLWIND RAIDERS
st irr,"i Hurnetle
R—May 22—PO-938
ll|] (57) Western 857
PRAIRIE OUTLAWS
Eddie Dean
MAY 22
MAY 29
E9] (87) Drama 9:
LADY FROM
SHANGHAI
Rita Hay mirth
Orson Welles
Everett Sloane
Glenn Anders
H— Apr. 17—PO-921
H
[13] (66) Drama 821 (78) Drama 822
ASSIGNED TO DANGER RAW DEAL
dene Raymond
Dfenirjj O'Rflelc
Norecn Nash
Claire Trevor
Robert nice
Marsha Hunt
8—PO-929
29—PO-937
II—May
It—May
JUNE 5
(67) Comedy 912
[JJ
BLONDIE'S REWARD
Penny Singleton
Arthur Lake
1 arry Slmms
II—June 12—PO-941
(76) Drama 823
[JJ
SWORD OF THE
AVENGER
Hamuli Del Gado
Slttrld Curie
Ralph Morgan
liiinr.tn Kenaldo
K—May 29—PO-937
FEATURE CHART
JUNE 12
(76) Drama 824
[JJ
CLOSE-UP
Alan Baxter
Virginia OUmore
Richard Kollmar
R—Apr. 17—PO-921
JUNE 19
gg (54) Western 8«
THE TIOGA KID
Eddie Mean
Roscoe Ates
H—Mar. 20—PO-918
Tracy
17—PO-916
(113) Drama «.
HOMECOMING
Clark GaSli
Lana Turner
R—Apr. 10— PO-920
(103) Drama 827 (102) Musical 825
BIG CITY
©THE PIRATE
Margaret O'Brien Judy Garland
Robert Preston
Gene KeUy
Danny Xbomu
Walter Slexak
It—Mar. 17—PO-911 R—Apr. 3—PO-918
Reissue
ITJI (56) Western 4756

'
FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
[UNE 26
p3| (87) Drama 8
©MICKEY
Loll Butler
BUI Goodwin
John Button
Hattle Melianle!
R—June 26—PQ-944
R—May
JULY 3
15—PO-931
[T] (65) Western 96
BLAZING ACROSS THE
PECOS
R-^July
17—P0-9S1
5§ (S3) Drama S
CANON CITY
Scott Brady
Charles Russell
Deforest Kelly
R^June 26—PO-944
JULY 10
(77) Drami
[JJ
THUNDERH00F
Preston Poster
Mary Stuart
JULY 17
R—Aug.
JULY 24
14—PO-964
B—June
g
JULY 31 AUGUST 7
t—PO-946
(86) Musical 953
ARKANSAS SWING
Hoosler Hotabota
B—July 24—PO-95S
(79) Drama I
(JJ
THE SPIRITUALIST
Turban Bey
Lynn Bart
Cathy O'Donnell
B—Aug. 7—PQ-958
AUGUS1
T$ (64) WesU
TRAIL TO LAI
Charles Starr set
61) Drsai
LADY AT MIDI
Richard Denning
Frances Ra/fert?
(107) Corned;
O0N AN ISLAND WITH
YOU
^
-PO-926
(56) Western 4752
TRIGGERMAN
Johnny Mack Brown
Virginia CerroU
Raymond Hatton
27] (69) Drama 4717
JINX MONEY
Leo Oorcey
Huntz Hall
R—May 32— PO-936
(103) Musical 82
CJ©EASTER PARADE
Fred Astalra
Judy Garland
Peter Lawford
Ann MUler
R—May 29—PO-938
[T] (SB) Western 4762
COWBOY CAVALIER
Jimmy Wakely
Taylor
(113) Com-Mus 831
©A DATE WITH JUDY
Jane Powell
«th Taylor
Wallace Beery
R-^lune 28—PO-946
[n] (66) Mystery 4718
THE SHANGHAI CHEST
Roland Winters
Manton Moreland
M) Western 4757
BACK TRAIL
Johnny Mack Brown
Mildred Coles
Raymond Hitton
53 (81) Drama 4801
©16 FATHOMS DEEP
Loo Cbaney
Arthur Lake
Tanla Chandler
"
ine 11—PO-641
(104) Drama 8-
THE SEARCH
Montgomery Olft
Aline MacMaboo
R—Mar. 20—PO-914
Tl (79) Drama
MICHAEL O'HAl
Scotty Beckett
AUene Roberts
Tommy Cook
Isabel Jewell
R—June 19—PO
MIDNIGHT
William Oargan
Mary Beth Hughes
R—May 8—PO-927
T] (106) Musical 4720
(126) ©EMPEROR WALTZ,
Dr R7-:
[J]
THE
THE CRUSADES
Blng Crosby
Luretta Young
oan Fontaine
Henry
Richard Haydn
LucUe Watson
R—May 8—PO-928
§
DREAM GIRL
(86) Comedy 4721
(611
Betty Button
Macdonald Carey
Virginia field
Patrle Knowlea Darryl
R—May 8—PO-W7 B~ M»7 »—PO-938
Ann Todd
Oeraldlne fltigerald
Leo Q. CanoU
B—May 31—PO-983
Group 5
jsgi (60) Weitern 819
GUNS OF HATE
Tim Holt
Nan Leslie
11—May 15—PO-931
Special
ft] U7»> Cbm-Dr 904
THE BEST YEARS OF
OUR LIVES
Fredrlc March
Myma Loy
Dana Andrews
R—Dec.
7—PO-769
':> (60) M 'drama 712
TRAIN TO ALCATRAZ
Don Barry
Martin
R—July 17—PO-952
Group S
(90) Western 817
g|]
RETURN OF THE
BADMEN
R—May
22—PO-934
§6] (TO) •utd'r-Mu* T.
©EYES OF TEXAS
Roy Rogers
Lynn Roberta
Andy Derine
R—July 24— PO-983
OME
Roy Rogers
Dennis Day
R—May 11—PO-934
g
(88) Outd'r-Dr 71
THE GALLANT LEGIO
WUllam Elliott
R—May 19—PO-938
(60) Western 75
fjj ARSHAL OF
AMARILLO
Allan 'Rocky" Lane
Group 1
(77) Drama 9(
THE PEARL
Pedro Armeodarls
Maria Elena Marques
B—Feb. 31—PQ-903
Special
m] (9T) Drama
THE VELVET T«
Rosalind Russell
Leo Oenn
TrjTor
Sydney Greenstraj
R-^luly 24— PO-
To] (60) M'draa
DAREDEVILS OF
CLOUDS
Robert Urlngstoa
Mae Clark
Car dwell
R—July 31—PO-I
£sj (70) Western HC21
SANTA FE MARSHAL
WUIIam Boyd
Russell Haydn
Marjorte Bamheau
Reissue
(89) Drama S
KING OF THE TURF
Adolpbe Menjou
Dolores Costello
(Tl) Comedy 39 (66) Western
RUNAWAY DAUGHTER THE SHOWDOWN
Barbara Stanwyck WUllam Boyd
(87) Drama 83
BELLE STARR
Scott-Tlerney
(71) Drama 83
FRONTIER MARSHAL
Randolph Scott
Nancy Kelly
(91) Drama 8)
STREET WITH NO
NAME. THE
Mark Sterens
Lloyd Nolan
Barbara Lawrence
uly 10—PO-950
32) Drama 8:
MINE OWN
EXECUTIONER
irgess Meredith
R—June 19—PO-944
(85) Drama 821
DEEP WATERS
Dana Andrews
Cesar Romero
Jean Peters
Dean Btockwell
R^Iuly 3—PO-948
(67) Drama 825
(88) THE CHECKERED COAT
Musical 832
ISE
Tom Conway
OF WASHINGTON
Moreen Nash
SQUARE
Hurd
Tyrone
Hatfield
Power
R—Aug 7— PO-967 (91) Drama
SLAVE SHIP
Beery
(106) Musical 81
WALLS OF JERICHO
Cornel WUde
Linda Darnell
Baiter
ury 10—PO-960
(89) Musical
©THAT LADY II
ERMINE
Betty Oracle -,
Douglas Fairbanks
Cesar Romero
Walter Abel
:K1
SO THIS IS NEW YORK
Henry Morgan
Rudy Vallea
nugh Herbert
R—May 16—PQ-6S3
(89) Drama
^9J
5
FOUR FACES WEST
McCrea
R—May
22— rO-93S
109) Com-Dr. 582
TIME OF YOUR LIFE
Cagney
WUllam Bendli
Wayne Morris
e Carney
R—May 11—PO-9SS
6*) Comedy
TEXAS. BROOKLi
AND HEAVEN
B^luly 34— PO-I
Tjj (85) Draau
PITFALL
Dlek Powell
R—Aug. 7—PG-H
(87) Musical 662
UP IN CENTRAL PARK
Dsanna Hurhln
Hick llaymes
Vincent Price
R^lune 6— PO-940
(90) Drama 6V
BAD SISTER
sret Lockwood
Hunter
Dennis Price
R—June 12—PO-94J
(83) Oomi 664
ABBOTT & COSTELLO
MEET FRANKEN-
STEIN
Abbott at Costello
Lon Chancy
Bela Lucosl
R-Wuly 3—PO-947
(79) Drama 61
MAN-EATER OF
KUMAON
bu
Joinna Page
Wendell Corey
R^June 16—PO 646
(78) Mus-Com 665
FEUDIN'. FUSSIN'
AND A-FIGHTIN'
Donald O'Connor
Percy Kilbride
R—June 19—PO-641
Blbl Ferrelra
Esmond Knight
Torln Thatcher
R^Iune 16— PO-946
(109) Dra
©TAP ROOTS
Heflln
(89) Comedy
MR. PEABODY Al
E MERMAID
im Powell
Ann Blyth
Irene Harrey
Andre* King
B^luly 10—PO-I
§£j (80) Drama 727 [5] (99) Musical 728
THE BIG PUNCH ©ROMANCE ON THE
Wayne Morris
HIGH SEAS
Lois Maxwell
Jack Carson
Gordon MaeRri
Paige
R—May 29— PG-937 Don DeFore
me 12—PO-942
Reissues
Ttj (82) Dram 730
FLOWING GOLD
Garfield-O'Brien
'if (Tl) Drama 729
GOD'S COUNTRY AND
THE WOMAN
Oeorge Brent
51] (101) Drama 7
KEY LARGO
Humphrey Bogart
Edward 0. Robinson
Lauren Baeall
Lionel Barrymore
R^July 10—PO-949

t
I
:t.
I
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
FEATURE CHART
tuST 21
i Iftuu 9-
AUGUST 28
27] (76) Adv-Drama 942
THE BLACK ARROW
Luuls Hayward
Janet Blair
George Macready
Edgar Ruchanan
Rhys Williams
R-^luly 10—PO-949
SEPTEMBER 4 SEPTEMBER 11 SEPTEMBER 18 SEPTEMBER 25
_
(79) Wertern 98
i«| (76) Weatem 903
WALK CROOKED
©THE STRAWBERRY
ROAN
Autry
Champion
Gloria Henry
Jack Holt
ar. 6—PG-907
||j
(79) Outd'r-Dr K
©NORTHWEST
STAMPEDE
Joan LeaUo
James Craig
Jack Oakle
CbUl WUls
R-^luly 10—PO-950
(M) Dram. <
[J]
GENTLEMAN FROM
NOWHERE
Warner Baiter
Pay Baker
Luis Van Rooteo
Bt. J—PG-973
(IS)
©OLYMPIC GAMES
OF 1948
BUI Stern. Common.
Ted Busing
R—Sept. 25—PO-971
SLACK EAGLE, THE
STORY OF A HORSE
R—Sept.
4—PO-946
(91) 128 (TO) Spec-Act ]
TRIPLE THREAT
MILE
Richard Crane
nnls OKeefe
Gloria Henry
R—Sept. 11—PO-968 9—PO-975
(61) Aet-Mu» 954
SINGIN' SPURS
Hoosler HoUbots
(82) Drama 903
THIS CORNER
Brady
Scott
R—8ept.
4—PO-996
OCTOBER 2 OCTOBER 9
(102) Mystery 734
NTERNATIONAL LADY
George
Basil
Brent
Ratbbone
(117) Drama 737
fjj]
MY SON, MY SON
Brian Aherne
(68) Drama 11
[JJ
SURRENDER DEAR
Gloria Jean
David Street
lion McOulre
R—Oct. 9—PO-976
[TJ (83) M'drama 9(
HOLLOW TRIUMPH
Paul Uenreld
Bennett
Eduard Frani
Leslie Brooks
ug. 21—PG-961
[s] (98) Musical 9t
©LUXURY LINER
Jane Powell
Liurlti Melchlor
George Brent
Frances Gilford
ug. 21—PO-962
ga (90) Comedy 902
A SOUTHERN YANKEE
Red Skelton
Arllne Dahl
Brian Donlevy
„,. 7—PO-968
Lawford
Elisabeth Taylor
Cesar Romero
Aug 14—PO-960
Western 4753 (53) Western 4763
RANGER SILVER TRAILS
iiiek Bro»n Jimmy Wakely
d Winters
Hatton
Claire
Christine Larson
Treior
Charles Blckford
Dub Taylor
5] (66) Musical 4721
HE MUSIC MAN
ra (65) M'drama g (87) Coned;
JOE PALOOKA THE DUDE GOES WEST
II
WINNER TAKE ALL Eddie Albert
-Aug. 28—PO-963 Gale Storm
R—May 1—PO-926
(56) Western
THE RANGERS RIDE
Jimmy
Wakely
[7j (65) Western 4754
THE SHERIFF SF
MEDICINE BOW
Johnny Mack Brawn
Drama 4714
AFFAIR. A
Metric*
-pa- 941
[7) (82) Drama 4726
BEYOND GLORY
Man Ladd
George
Henry Trarers
R—July 19—PO-944
gj| (89) Drama 481
SORRY. WRONG
UMBER
Barbara Stanwyck
Burt Lancaster
Richard!
Wendell Corey
R-^Iuly 31—PO-969
.Si-
Veronica
Lake
Group 1
(59) Musical !
VARIETY TIME
Leon Errol
Edgar Kennedy
Jack Parr
Frankle Carle
R-^luly 7—PO-958
Special
(114) Com-Dr
GOOD SAM
Gary
Cooper
ra (81) M'drama 717 (67) Outd'r-Mus 733
OUT OF THE STORM ©NIGHTTIME IN
Jimmy Lydon
NEVADA
R—Sept. 25—PO-971 Roy Rogers
H (60) "
718 Adele Mara
SONS OF ADVENTURE Andy Devlne
Lynne Roberta K—Oct. 30—PO-981
R—Dec. 4—PO-992
B—Aug.
[TJ
21—PO-962
(61) Outd'r-Dr 480
(70) Outd'r-Dr 829
THE WINNER'S CIRCLE
Jean Wllles
Morgan Farley
Johnny Longden
R—Aug. 7—PO-957
(TJ (82) Western HC23
HIDDEN GOLD
William
Russell
fjj
Boyd
Hayden
(81) Comedy S-i
(82) Drama I
WAKE UP
SCREAMING
Betty arable
Victor Mature
(125) Drama I
BLOOD AND SAND
Group 6
|u] (68) Mystery 822
MYSTERY IN MEXICO
William Lundigan
Jacqueline White
Rlcardo Cortes.
Tony Barrett
" uly 3—PO-848
(90) Drama
(JJ
ANGEL IN EXILE
John Carroll
Adele Mara
Barton MacLane
R—Jan. 1—PG-10C
^
(72) Comedy S-!
FLIRTING WITH FATE
Joe B. Brown
(») Drama 837
THE LUCK OF THE
IRISH
Tyrone Power
Anne Baiter
Cecil Kellaway
Lee J. Cobb
B—Sept. 4—PO-965
Group 2
((3) Mystery 9
BODYGUARD
Lawrence Tlerney
PrlscUla Lane
Philip Reed
Steve Brodle
R—Sept. 4—PG-965
|5j
(60) Western 757
DESPERADOES OF
DODGE CITY
-Sept. 11—PO-968
53 (60) Western 741
IN OF GOD'S
COUNTRY
Sept. 25—PO-971
||a ((9) Docum. 4«
SOS SUBMARINE
R—Oct 16—PO-9TT
|a (81) Drama 48(
HARPOON
John Bromfund
Alyet Louis
R—Nor. 27—PO-990
(78) Drama 5
ESCAPE
Rei Harrison
Peggy Cummins
William Hartnell
Normal Wooland
R-^lune 6—PO-940
Special
(48) Docum 90
DESIGN FOR DEATH
in.
Group 6
1—PO-893
IS] (79) M'drama 821
RACE STREET
R-^luly 3—PO-948
5S (108) Comedy
DUKE OF WEST POINT
Louis Hayward
Joan Fontaine
53 (88) Comedy S-I
MISS ANNIE ROONEY
Shirley Temple
6:
(139) Drama
©FOREVER AMBER
Linda Darnell
Cornell Wilde
R—Oct. 18—PO-866
(64) Mystery a
THE CREEPER
Eduardo
ClneUi
fTj (90) Drama 714
MOONRISE
Dane Clark
Call Russell
Ethel Barrymore
R—Sept. 18—PO-97C
(60) Western 751
[JJ
DENVER KID
(68) Comedy 840
THE GAY INTRUDERS
John Emery
Tamara Geva
Leif Brlckson
Roy Roberts
R—June 12— PO-942
Group 1
(92) Drama 9
RACHEL AND THE
STRANGER
Loretta Young
m Holden
Robert Mltcbum
Aug. 7—PO-958
m (93) Drama 48C
THE MOZART STORY
Hans Holt
Winnie Markus
Irene von Meydendorff
R—Nov. 27—PO-990
(77) Drama 58.
VICIOUS CIRCLE, THE
Conrad Nagel
Frits Korlher
Lyle Talbot
Philip Van Zandt
R—June 5—PO-939
SJ] (186) Weat-Dr 585
RED RIVER
John Wayne
Montgomery CUft
Walter Brennan
Joanne Dm
R^July 17—PO-952
(57) Docum 58i
OLYMPIC CAVALCADE
Bill Stern, narrator
R—Sept 11—PO-968
(65) Jungle Dr 588
URUBU
George Breakstone
R—Aug. 21—PO-961
m (81) Comedy 5<
THE GIRL FROM
MANHATTAN
liorothy Lamour
George Montgomery
Charles Laughton
Hugh Herbert
R—Sept. 25—PO-972
(82) Comedy 670 (88) Drama 671
ONE TOUCH OF VENUS THE SAXON CHARM
Ava Gardner
Robert Montgomery
Dick Haymea
Susan Hayward
Robert Walker
John Payne
R—Aug. 28—PO-964 R—Sept. 11—PO-967
(90) Comedy 6
FOR THE LOVE OF
MARY
Donna Durbln
Edmund O'Brien
Don Taylor
-PG-966
H
©TWO («•>
GUYS FROM
TEXAS
Dennis Morgan
(80)
5J]
©ROPE
Farley Granger
Constance Collier
R— Aug. 38—PO-963
V (81) M'drama 803
SMART GIRLS DON'T
TALK
Virginia Mayo
Bruce Bennett
Robert Hutton
R—Sept. 25—PO-971
Nov. (69) Drama 1139
TIGHT SHOES
Broderlck Crawford
Leo Carrlllo
Nov (77) Comedy 1217
BUTCH MINDS THE
BABY
Virginia Brace
Broderlck Crawford
Dec. (Tl) Drama 623
THE INVISIBLE MAN
Claude Rains
Clara 8tuart
Dm. (81) Drama 1029
INVISIBLE MAN
RETURNS
Vincent Price
Sir Oedrie Hardwtete
Dec. (91) Drama 1270
PITTSBURGH
John Wayne
Marlene Metric!)
Jan. (74) Drams 1266
SIN TOWN
Constance Bennett
Broderlck Crawford
Jan. (67) Myst-Dr 1212
GHOST OF
FRANKENSTEIN
Lon Chaney
Evelyn Ankers
Jan (60) Myst-Dr 1295 Feb (78) Drama 924
SON OF DRACULA THE STORM
Lon Chaney Charles Blekford
Louise Allbrltton Preaton Foatar
Feb. (61) Myst-Dr 1246
MUMMY'S TOMB
Lon
Chaney
Feb (65) Myst-Dr 1344
MUMMY'S GHOST
Lon Chaney
Mar. (83) Drama 917
LITTLE TOUGH GUY
Little Tough Guys
Dead End Kids
Mar. (73) Drama 929
LITTLE TOUGH GUYS
IN SOCIETY
Little Tough Ouys
JOXOFFICE BookinGuide : : January 8, 1949

1
FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
1
1
OCTOBER 16
(h] (56) Western li
EL DORADO PASS
Charles Starrett
Smiley Burnett*
Elena Verdugo
Stere Darrell
B—Dec. 11—PO-993
(73) Drama 832
©ADVENTURES OF
GALLANT BESS
Gallant Bess
Cameron Mitchell
Audrey Long
Fuzzy Knight
It—July 31—PQ-958
Sol (88) Adi 4726
SMUGGLERS COVE
Leo Oorcey
Bowery Boyi
OCTOBER 23
g (59) Outd'r-Dr
RUSTY LEADS THE
WAY
Sharyn Moffett
John Utel
Ann Doran
B—Oct. 18—PO-977
1) Mys-Dr 91
BEHIND LOCKED
DOORS
Lucille Bremer
Richard Carlson
15 Fowley
Rair Harolde
!pt. 18—PQ-969
(81) Mystery 4803
NIGHT HAS A
THOUSAND EYES
Edward 0. Robinson
Gall Russell
John Lund
Virginia Bruce
R—July 17—PO-951
|§ (64) Western HC24
STAGECOACH WAR
William Boyd
11 Hayden
OCTOBER 30 NOVEMBER 6 NOVEMBER 13 NOVEMBER 20 NOVEMBER 27 DECEMB
.1,8
DTHE LOVES "of
CARMEN
Rita Haywerts.
B—Aug. 11—PG-96:
129
Super West 130
©THE UNTAMED
5o] (119) Ad?.
COUNT OF MONTE
CRISTO
btrt Uonat
2? (102) Ad.
SON OF MONTE
CRISTO
Louis
Hayward
(71)
©THE SECRET LAND
Commentators
Robert Montgomery
Taylor
Van Hertln
R—Aug. 18—PO-983
yj (67) Western 4764 (107) Blog-Dr AA10
[J]
lUTLAW BRAND WTHE BABE RUTH
Jimmy ttskely
STORY
Cbrtstlne Larson
William Bendlx
Claire Trevor
Charles Blciford
Group 2
(92) Outd'r-Dr i
STATION WEST
Dick Powell
Jane Greer
Agnes Moorehead
Burl Ives
4—PO-968
ept.
«j (69) U'dnaa 71
ODE OF SCOTLAND
YARD
R—Sept. 18—PG-970
•t
.) O-ild'r-Mus
SHINE ON HARVEST
MOON
R—July
31—PO-955
SEALED VERDICT
Ray MlUand
Florence Marly
Broderlck Crawford
John Holt
ept. 11—PO-967
(110) Mus-Com 952
©A SONG IS BORN
Danny Kaye
"lrglnla Mayo
tere Cochran
Esther Dale
Aug. 28—PG-964
jj (86) Drama 7
ANGEL ON THE
AMAZON
—Dec. 25—PQ-99S
(T) (86) Western 6
SUNOOWN IN
SANTA FE
Allan "Rocky" Lane
u (75) Drama 119
LEATHER GLOVES
Cameron Mitchell
iia Grey
Jane Nigh
Sam Letene
R—Nor. 13—PG-985
g (88) Comedy
NO MINOR VICES
Dana Andrews
LIU! Palmer
Wyatt
Louis Jourdan
R—Oct. 9—PO-978
T| (55) Western 4758
GUNNING FOR JUSTICE
Johnny Hack Brown
Evelyn Flnley
Raymond Hattoo
H
(84) Western 4806
LAST OF THE WILD
HORSES
lies Ellison
Jane Fraxee
Mary Betb Hughes
Dee, 18—PO-996
i.>;, Drama
RACING LUCK
Gloria Henry
Stanley Clementa
lurid Bruce
B—Not. 8—PO-983
|u) (85) Comedy 907
LEFS LIVE A LITTLE
llt-ily Lamarr
.
Robert Cummlngs
if! (101) Comedy 4805
MISS TATLOCK'S
MILLIONS
John Lund
Wanda Hendrlx
Barry Fltagerald
Monty Woolley
B—8ept 18—PO-970
(88) West-Dr 9i
BLOOD ON THE MOC
Robert Mitchum
Barbara Bel Oeddes
Robert Preston
Walter Brennan
R—Not. 13—PO-985
H
(67) Outd-r-Mus 734
©GRAND CANYON
TRAIL
(89) Com-Kantasy 131
©THE RETURN OF
OCTOBER
Glenn Ford
R—Oct. 13—PO-979
(81) M drama 132
©THE GALLANT BLADE
Larry Parks
8—Oct. 23—PO-979
MUSKETEERS
Una Turner
Gene Kelly
June Allyson
Van HefUn
B—Oct. 16—PO-978
fl] (56) Western 4768
COURTIN' TROUBLE
Jimmy Wakely
Cannonball"
Taylor
S$ (60) Western 862
RENEGADES OF
SONORA
Allan "Rocky" Ul
Reissue
3^ (72) Comedy 8601
SCATTERBRAIN
Judy CanoTs
CO) Western 48C
K OF THE LASH
LaSue
Funy St. John
QUICK ON T|
TRIGGER 1
' it s S'^rel
Smiley Burned
Helen I'a.-rlsh
(73) Act]
MILLION DOU
WEEKEND
Gene Itaymoud
Stephanie Paaj|
:.- S3
B—Oct, 16—1
Reissue
a in?) ii'j
SAN FRANCIS
Jeannette MacBfl
Clark Gable V
|I| (80) Cosvl
KIDNAPPED \
Roddy McDowgf
Sue England J
Dan O'Herllhj t
Roland Wlnun.
R—Sept. 18—PC
Tj (60) Drati
DISASTER
Richard Denntof
Trudy Marshall"'!
Will Wright 1
Jack Lambert I
R—Oct. 23—PO
jjiSTToutda
©THE PLUNDfl
Rod Cameron J
lions Massey 1
(96) Com-Dr 842
(JQAPARTMENT FOR
PEGGY
Jeanne Craln
William Ilolden
Edmund Gwenn
Gene Lockhart
Randy Stuart
B—Sept 18—P0-96 9
ra (90) Comedy 591
AN INNOCENT AFFAIR
Fred MacMurray
B—«*pt. 4—PO-966
fisj (57) Documentary
THE ANGRY GOD
R—Oct. 30—PO-982
(68) Mys-Dr
NIGHT WIND
Charles
Russell
'irglnia Christine
Cary Gray
John Rldgely
(83) Drama
PLOT TO KILL
ROOSEVELT
Selected Films
B—Sot. 6—PO-983
>i M drama 841
CRY OF THE CITY
Mature
Richard Conte
Fred Clark
Shelley Winters
R—8ept. 25—PO-972
|5] (94) Comedy 595
MY DEAR SECRETARY
Larslne Day
Kirk Douglas
Keenan Wym
Helen Walker
Rudy Valise
pt. 11—PO-968
79i Drama 681
KISS THE BLOOD
OFF MY HANDS
Burt Lancaster
(95) Drama I
ROAD HOUSE
Ida Luplno
Cornel Wilde
Richard Wldmark
Celeste Holm
et 1—PO-974
ROGUES' REGIMENT
Dick Powell
Marta Toren
(98)
©WHEN
Com-Dr
MY BABY
8<
SMILES AT ME
Betty Grable
Dan DaUey
Jack Oakle
June Havoc
ot. 13—PO-986
g
T) . Western 8
BELLE STARR'S
DAUGHTER
R—Oct. 30—PO-982
(85) Dram* 8
BUNGALOW 13
Tom Conway
JUNGLE PATROI
Krlstlne Miller I
Mickey Knox 4
Arthur Irani I
Gene Reynolds 1
R—Sept. 15— If
(70) Drama 5S
"
GH FURY
Madeleine Carroll
Ian Hunter
Michael Bennle
M. 13—PO-985 [Tj (91) DraaaJ
LADY OF BURLI
B>r: ; ra Stanwye*
:• Mus-Cfl
THE COUNTESS
ONTE CRISTI
1911 Drama 80
(JJOHNNY BELINDA
Jane Wyman
Lew Ayres
Charles Blektord
Agnes Moorehead
R—Sept. 18— PO-979
(97) Comedy 8
JUNE BRIDE
Bette Darls
Robert Montgomery
Fay Balnter
Betty Lynn
Tom Tully
R—Oct 13—PO-9T8
5rj (98) Drama 806
©FIGHTER SQUAORON
"
id O'Brien
t Suet
John Rodney
Henry Hull
Tom D'Andrea
(90) Drama (100) Drama
Upert Best Films
JJ.
JjROOM UPSTAIRS JEALOUSY
g Marlene Dietrich B—June 19—PO-943
CB-^June 5—PO-939 (130) Drama
01
(128) Drama Slrltxky-Int'l
J MARIUS
ANGELS
8lrlliky Intl THEY ARE NOT
R^June 19— PO-944 T^-ime 16—PO-946
(91) Corn-Drama
Oxford Films
FRIC-FRAC
R-^luly 3— PO-fUH
(105) (88) Drama
f

I
Drama
J2rama
PICCADILLY INCIDENT
Anna Neagle
Michael Wilding
Reginald Owen
Mi'li.ul Laurence
II—Feb. 7— PG-8U7
M (! Wert,
GUN RUNNER
limmy
Wakely
m (ioo) m
JTHE KISSING
BANDIT
Frank 6inatra
Kathryn Grayson
Cyd Charisse
I. Carrol Nalsh
R—Not. 20—PQ-988
2.1 (87) H'dran
INCIDENT
"ane
obert
oyce
R—Jan.
Krazee
Osterloh
Compton
1—PG-!
(67) Drama 4809
DYNAMITE
Gargan
illiam
Richard Crane
rvlng Bacon
1—Not. 20—PC-988
(88) Comedy 90J
EVERY GIRL SHOULD
BE MARRIED
Cary Grant
Francbot Tone
Betsy Drake
Diana Lynn
Alan Mowbray
R—Not. SO—PO-98T
Reissue
i| (87) Mus-West 872
IN OLD CALIENTE
Roy Rogert
Mary Hart
(Jeorge "Gabby" Hayea
rjj (82) Fantaay
©THE BOY WITH
GREEN HAIR
Pat O'Brien
Robert Ryan
Barbara Halt
Dean Stocknell
Nor. 20—PU-987
(62) Western 915
GUN SMUGGLERS
Tim Holt
Richard Martin
Martha llyer
Gary Gray
R^lan. 1—PG-1000
(67) Outd'r-Mus 841
IH
©THE FAR FRONTIER [|]
(57) M'drama 802
Soy Rogera
ROSE OF THE YUKON
Andy Derlne
Broidy
Myrna Dell
m Wright
2) Comedy S
DEAR TO MY
HEART
Burl Ires
Beulah Bondl
Bobby Drlacoll
Luana Patten
R—Dec. 11—PQ-993
[n] (60) Western 481
FRONTIER REVENGE
Lash LaRue
(62) Act-Dr
THUNDER IN THE
PINES
George Reeres
• '
Byrd
OUTLAW COUNTRY
Lash LaRue
Fumy 8t. John
(58) Drama
HIGHWAY 13
Robert Lowery
Pamela Blake
Michael Whalen
Dan Seymour
R—Jan. 1—PG-1000
BLE PREFERRED
Peggy Khudsen
Charles Ruasell
Lynne Roberta
(108) Drama 501
THE SNAKE PIT
de Havilland
Leo Genn
Mark SteTens
Celeste Holm
Glenn Langan
—Nov. 13—PO-986
(100) Western Si
YELLOW SKY
Gregory Peek
Anne Baiter
Richard Wldmark
Robert Arthur
R—Not. 27—PO-990
(82) Comedy 902
THAT WONDERFUL
URGE
Tyrone Power
Oene Tlerney
Reginald Gardiner
Arleen Whalen
Not. 27—PO-980
(83) Drama 57
Jj7]
SIREN OF ATLANTIS
Maria Montez
Pierre Aumoot
la O'Keefe
R—Dec. 25—PG-998
(77) Comedy 684
MEXICAN HAYRIDE
Bud Abbott
Lou Costello
Virginia Grey
Luba Malioa
R—Dee. 11—PO-994
76) Adv-Dr
BUSH CHRISTMAS
Chips Rafferty
Helen Orlere
Jobn Fernatde
Nicky Yardley \
(100) Comedy 685
YOU GOTTA STAY
HAPPY
Joan Fontaine
Jimmy Stewart -
Eddie Albert
and Young
-Not. 6—PG-984
(75 1 809
THE DECISION OF
CHRISTOPHER BLAKE
Metis Smith
Robert Douglas
Cecil KeUaway
Ted Donaldson
It— Pec. 4—PO-993
Q] (90) Musical 810
©ONE SUNDAY
AFTERNOON
la Morgan
Dorothy Malone
Don DeFore
JanLs Paige
~ Dec. 18—PG-995
[lgj (91) Drama 811
WHIPLASH
Dane Clark
Alexis Smith
Zachary Scott
Kve
-Dec. 25—PG-998
H'drama 812
QADVENTURES OF
DON JUAN
Rrrol Flynn
R—Dec. 25—l'G-998
(92) M'drama
Gramercy
MARRIAGE THE
SHADOWS
R—Oct. 2—PO-973
(83) Mu*-Dr
Clasa-Mohme
LA 8ARCA DE 0R0
R—Oct
S—PO-973
(69) Drama (87) Drama (98) Musical
Lopert Intl Plsrtna
WHERE WORDS FAIL RUY BLAS
Clase-Mobm
LA REINA OEL
B—Oct. 9—PO-978 R—Oct. 23—PO-980 TROPICO
(102) Drama
(105) M'drana Film Right Int'l (100) Drama
Superfllm BACK STREETS OF Films In
WHEN LOVE CALLS PARIS WOMAN HUNT
R—Dct. 16—PO-978 R—Oct. 30—PO-981 R— Not. 6—PO-9
(103) Drama (130) Drama (91) M'drama Vi
Vesurlo Fllme Slrltaky Intl EAGLE WITH TWO
MALACARME CESAR HEADS
B—Not. 8—PO-M4 R— Dee. 4—PO-991 R— Dec. 18—PO-996
(81) Drama
(77) Drama Vog (62) Drama
Lopert THE ETERNAL Vlro. Ine.
LONG IS THE ROAD HUSBAND STREET CORNER
R—Not. 20—PO-987 R— Dee. 4—PO-9S1 E-^aji. -PO-999
BOXOFTICE BookinGuide : : January 8, 1949

REVIEW DIGEST
and Alphabetical Picture Guide Index
947 Abbott & Costello- Meet Frankenstein
(83) U-l 7- 3-48
987 Accused. The (100) Para 11-20-48
997 Act of Violence (83) MGM 12-25-48
998 Adventures of Don Juan (113) WB. 12-25-48
956 Adventures of Gallant Bess (73) EL 7-31-48
906 All My Sons (94) U-l 2-28-48
1000 Angel in Exile (90) Rep 1- 1-49
998 Angel on the Amazon (86) Rep 12-2*48
982 Angry God, The (57) UA 10-30-48
925 Anna Karenina (111) 20-Fox 5- 1-48
924 Another Part of the Forest (107) U-l 4-24-48
969 Apartment for Peggy (96) 20-Fox.. 9-18-48
978 Appointment With Murder (67) FC. .10-16-48
923Argyle Secrets. The (63) FC 4-24-48
917 Arizona Ranger. The (63) RKO.... 4-3-48
953 Arkansas Swing (65) Col 7-24-48
922 Arthur Takes Over (63) 20-Fox.... 4-17-48
929 Assigned to Danger (66) EL 5- 8-48
B
955 Babe Ruth Story. The (107) Mono... 7-31-48
Back Trail (54) Mono
995 Badmen of Tombstone (75) Mono. .
.12-18-48
942 Bad Sister (90) U-l 6-12-48
969 Behind Locked Doors (61) EL 9-18-48
982 Belle Starr's Daughter (87) 20-Fox. 10-30-48
964 Betrayal, The (183) Astor 8-28-48
944 Beyond Glory (82) Para 6-19-48
915 Big City (103) MGM 3-27-48
937 Big Punch, The (80) WB 5-29-48
933 Big Town Scandal (62) Para 5-22-48
949 Black Arrow. The (76) Col 7-10-48
965 Black Eagle, the Story of a Horse
(76) Col 9- 4-48
969 Blanche Fury (93) EL 9-18-48
951 Blazing Across the Pecos (55) Col... 7-17-48
935 Blonde Ice (73) FC 5-22-48
941Blondie's Reward (67) Col 6-12-48
991 Blondie's Secret (68) Col 12- 4-48
985 Blood on the Moon (88) RKO 11-13-48
965 Bodyguard (63) RKO 9- 4-48
Borrowed Trouble (..) UA
897 Boy With Green Hail. The (82) RKO. 11-20-48
936 Brothers, The (90) U-l 5-22-48
Bungalow 13 (65) 20-Fox
c
946 Canon City (83) EL 6-26-48
939 Carson City Raiders (60) Rep 6- 5-48
957 Checkered Coat. The (67) 20-Fox.. 8- 7-48
996 Chicken Every Sunday (91) 20-Fox. .12-18-48
921Close-Up (76) EL 4-17-48
970 Code of Scotland Yard (60) Rep 9-18-48
997 Command Decision (113) MGM .... 12-25-48
940 Coroner Creek (90) Col 6- 5-48
943 Corridor of Mirrors (96) U-l 6-19-48
Counterfeiters. The (73) 20-Fox
984 Countess of Monte Cristo, The
(77) U-l 11- 6-48
Courtin' Trouble (56) Mono
Creeper, The (64) 20-Fox
972 Cry of the City (95) 20-Fox 9-25-48
D
955 Oaredevils of the Clouds (60) Rep... 7-31-48
1000 Dark Pas! (74) Col 1- 1-49
946 Date With Judy. A (113) MGM... 6-26-48
Dead Don't Dream, The (62) UA
946 Dear Murderer (90) U-l 5-22-48
992 Decision of Christopher Blake
(75) WB 12- 4-48
948 Deep Waters (85) 20-Fox 7-3-48
Denver Kid. The (60) Rep
896 Design for Death (48) RKO 1-31-48
968 Desperadoes of Dodge City (60) Rep.. 9-11-48
926 Devil's Cargo (61) FC 4-10-48
980 Disaster (60) Para 10-23-48
927 Dream Girl (86) Para. 5-8-48
926 Dude Goes Wet. The (87) Mono... 5- 1-48
986 Dulcimer Street (112) U-l 11-13-48
988 Dynamite (67) Para 11-20-48
E
928 Easter Parade (103) MGM 5-29-48
993 El Dorado Pass (56) Col 12-11-48
955 Embraceable You (80) WB 8-31-48
928 Emperor Waltz. The (106) Para 5- 8-48
993 Enchantment (102) RKO 12-11-48
945 End of the River (80) U-l 6-26-48
+

I
Race
; Luxury
i Live
.
. .
. 7-
t
1
Very
lime. L>ate tollowing distributor is BOXOFTICE review date. Listings cover
current reviews. It is brought up to date regularly. The meaning of the
various signs and their combinations is as follows:
Good; H -Good; '
Fair; - Poor; = Very Poor.
In the summary H is rated as 2 pluses; = as 2 minuses.
r?
Tdtay tor Tomorrow (Reviewed
as An Act of Murder) (91) U'-l .
.12-11-48
Loaded Pistols (79) Col 1- 8-49
Lost One, The (84) Col 4-24-48
Loves of Carmen, The (98) Col... 8-21-48
Luck of the Irish. The (99) 20-Fox 9- 4-48
Lulu Belle (87) Col 6-19-48
Liner (98) MGM 8-21-48
M
beth (107) Rep 10-16-48
-Eater of Kumaon (79) IF- 1 - - • - 6-26-48
Man From Colorado (99) Col 11-20-48
lattan Angel (67',b)
Marshal of Amarillo (60) Rep
Melody Time (75) RK0
Mexican Hayride (77) U-l
Michael 0'Halloran (79) Mono....
Mickey (87) EL
Million Dollar Weekend (73) EL..
Mine Own Executioner (102) 20-Fo
Miraculous Journey (76) FC
Miss Tatlock's Millions (101) Par,
Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream
(96) SR0
Mr. Peabody and the Mermaid
(89) U-l
rin and Mr. Traill (91)
Madness (73) FC
! (90) Rep
ning Becomes Electra (173)
Story, The (93) SG...
sic Man (66) Mono
My Dear Secretary (94) UA .
True Love (84) Para.. .
Col 11-20-48
5-22-48
12-11-48
6-19-48
6-26-48
10-16-48
6-19-48
2-21-48
9-18-48
. 7-10-48
.12-25-48
. 4- 3-48
. 9-18-48
.12- 6-47
.11-27-48
. 7-24-48
. 9-11-48
.12-11-48
Mystery in Mexico (66) RK0.... 3-48
N
Nicholas Nickleby (95) U-l 11-22-47
Night Has a Thousand Eyes
• (81) Para. 7-17-48
Nightime in Nevada (67) Rep 10-30-48
Night Wind (68) 20-Fox 9-11-48
No Minor Vices (96) MGM 10- 9-48
Northwest Stampede (79) EL 7-10-48
+
o
1
Old-Fashioned Girl. An (82) EL. .. .12-18-48
Olympic Cavalcade (57) UA 9-11-48
Olympic Games of 1948 (88) EL.. 9-25-48
On an Island With You (107) MGM- 5- 1-48
One Night With You (..) U-l
One Sunday Afternoon (90) WB .
. .12-18-48
One Touch of Venus (82) U-l.... 8-28-48
On Our
Merry Way (formerly Miracle
Can Happen, A) (107) UA 2- 7-48
Outlaw Brand (57) Mono
Out of the Storm (61) Rep 9-25-48
P
Paleface. The (91) Para 10-23-48
Paradine Case, The (117) SRO 1- 3-48
Parole, Inc. (87) EL
Pearl, The (77) RKO 2-21-48
Piccadilly Incident (88) MGM 2- .7-48
Pirate. The (102) MGM 4- 3-48
Pitfall (85) UA 8- 7-48
I Plot to Kill Roosevelt. The (83) UA 11- 6-48
Plunderers. The (87) Rep 11-6-48
Portrait of Jennie (86) SRO 1- 1-49
R
Street (79) RKO 7-3-48
'Rachel and the Stranger (92) RKO 8- 7-48
I Racing Luck (66) Col 11-6-48
Range Renegades (54) Mono 8-14-48
Raw Deal (78) EL 5-29-48
Red River (126) UA 7-17-48
Rid Shoes. The (134) EL 10-23-48
Return of the Badmen (90) RKO.. 5-22-48
Return of October, The (89) Col. . . 10-23-48
Return of Wildfire (81) SG 8-21-48
Lady (78) U-l 5-15-48
House (95) 20-Fox 10- 2-48
Rogues' Regiment (86) U-l 10- 9-48
Romance on the High Seas (99) WB 6-12-48
(80) WB 8-28-48
Rusty Leads the Way (59) Col 10-16-48
Sawn Charm, The (88) U-l 9-11-48 :± Staled Verdict (83) Para 9-11-48 ±
+f
± ±
Search, The (104) MGM 3-20-48 tt ft ft

. 9-23
.
7-17
'
SHORTS CHART
Short subjects, listed by company, in order of release. Running time follows
title. First date is national release, second the date ol review in BOXOFFICE.
Symbol between dates is rating from the BOXOFFICE review: +f Very Good.
+ Good, - Fair. — Poor. = Very Poor. © Indicates color photography.
Columbia
1601 The Stork Takes a Holiday
(8) 9-9
1«02 Swing Monkey Swing (8). 10-14 4-
1603 The Little Match Girl
(8 H-25 ±
1604 Glee Worms (7>/ 2 ) 12-16
1605 A Boy and His Doq (7) . . 1- 6
COLOR PHANTASIES
9703 Short Snorts on Sports
9-30 4-
1442 Ay Tank Ay Go (16).. 10-21 ±
1443 Static in the Attic (19). 12-23
COMMUNITY SINGS
9658 No. 8 Manana (10'/ 2 ) ... 6- 3 +
9659 No 9 California Here Come
I
(9) 8-12 +
1948-49 SEASON
1651 No. 1 Baby Face (9) 9-16 1652 No. 2 My Happiness (10) 10-21 +
1653 No. 3 Its Magic (10)... 12- 9
5657 No. 7 Series 8 Christmas
Carols (12) Reissue. . .12- 9
FILM NOVELTIES
1901 Rhapsody on Ice (9) . . .12-23
FOX AND CROW
1948-49 SEASON
1701 Robin Hoodlum (7) 12-23
ONE-REEL SPECIAL
1948-49 SEASON
1551 Candid Microphone (11). 10-21
SCREEN SNAPSHOTS
9858 Hollywood Honors Hersholt
(8) 5- 6 +
9859 Hollywood Party (9) . . . . 6-10 4+
9860 Hollywood Friars Honor George
Jessel (9i/i > 7-8 ft
1948-49 SEASON
1851 Hollywood Holiday (9) . . 9- 2 +
1852 A Day at CBS. (9V,). 10- 7
1853 Stars to Remember (9!/2 ) 11-18
1854 Hollywood Santa Claus Lane
(9' 2 ) 12-23
1855 A Rainy Da:
(-.) 1-27
STOOGE COMEDIES
+ 9408 The Hot Scots (17) .... 7- 8 7-31
194849 SEASON
1401 Heavenly Oazt (I6I/2).. 9- 2 + 9-lt
1402 I'm a Monkey's Untie
(16) 10- 7 10-16
Mummy's 11- 4 + 11- 6
1403 Dummies (16).
1404 Crime on Their Hands
(17Vi) 12-9
THRILLS OF MUSIC
9957 Gene Krupe S, Orch. (10) 6-10 ± 6-26
9958 Tony Pastor 4 Orth. (10) 7-22 + 9-4
1948-49 SEASON
1951 Elliot Lawrence & Orch.
9-23 9-18
((101/a)
1952 Ray Eberle «, Orch. (10) 11- 4 + 11-6
1953 Louis Prima & Orch. (.. 112-16
1954 Buddy Rich & Orch. (
VERA VAGUE LAFF . ) 1-20
. TOURS
1948-49 SEASON
1751 » Lass In Alaska (101/2)10-28 + 10-16
1752 Sitka Sue 1-20
(10! 2
WORLD OF ) SPORTS
9808 No Holds Barred (9)... 6-17 ft 7-3
9809 Aoua Zanies (9) 7-15 + 7-31
1948-49 SEASON
1801 Diving Champions (10) IB- 2
1802 Acrobatic Babies (9>/,).. 10-14 + 10-16
1803 Babe Didrlkson, Queen of
( ) Snorts 11-25
Flashing Fins .12-23
1804 (..)...
1805 Mrs. Golf (..) 1-27
SERIALS
(Special) .... 9180 Superman 7-15 + 7-17
15 Chapters
1948-49 SEASON
10-28
1120 Congo Bill
15 Chapter!
12
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
W-941 Half-Pint Pygmy (7) . . . 8-7
1948-49 SEASON
W-32 Luckv Durky (8) 10- 9
W-34The Cat That Hated People
(7) 12-18
W- 36 Goggle Fishing Bear (..)
Date Rating Rev'd
(6) 3-10 4- 5-15
T-913 Cane Breton Island (9) 5- 8 + 7-10
T-914 Chicago, the Beautiful
+ (10) 7-17 814
1948-49 SEASON
T-ll Wandering Throuoh Wales
(9) 10-16 + 11-17
-f- Night 11-27 12-18
T-12 Life in Chicago (9).
T-13 Scholastic Enoland (8). 12-18
GOLD MEDAL REPRINTS
(Technicolor)
W-923 The Milky Way (8)..-. 2-14 ft 3-18
W-924 The Midnight Snack (9) 3-27 + 5-15
W-925 Puss 'n Toots (7) 4-24 + 5-15
W-926The Bowling Alley Cat
(8) 6-12 + 7-18
1948-49 SEASON
W-21 The Little Goldtlsh (8).. 11-20 + 11-27
W-22Fine Feathered Friends
(••)
W-23Ttie Blue Danube (..)
W-24 SufferhV Cats (..)
MARTIN BLOCKS MUSICAL
MERRY-GO-ROUND
M-981 Freddy Martln-Keenan
Wynn (10) 2-14 ft 3-6
M -982 Tex Beneke & Orch. (10) 4-24 -f J- 6
M-983 Ray Noble-Buddy Clark
(11) 6-26 + 7-10
M-984 Les Brown-Virginia O'Brien
(10) 7-17 ± 8-14
M-985Frankle Carle & Orch.
(10) 8-28 -f 10-9
M-986 Art Lund. Les Brown.
+ Tex Beneke (10) 8-3 10-9
NEWS OF THE DAY
(Released Twice Weekly)
PASSING PARADE
K-974My Old Town (9) - - . . 2- 7 ft 2-21
K-975 Souvenirs of Death
(10) 6-19 + 7-18
K-976 The Fabulous Fraud
(11) 8-28 + 10- 9
1948-49 SEASON
K-71The City of Little Men
(10) 11-20 + 11-27
PETE SMITH SPECIALTIES
S-9S6 I Love My Moth«r-ln-Law
BUT (8) 2-7 ft 2-14
S-957 Now You See It (9) . . . . 3-28 ± 3-20
S-958 ©You Can't Win (9)
. . . 5-29 + 5-15
S-959Just Suppose (9) 7-17 ± 8-14
S-960 Football Thrills Ne. 11
+ (9) 8-21 8-14
1948-49 SEASON
S-Sl Why Is ItT (9) 9-11 10-16
S- 52 Pigskin Skill (9) 9-18 + 10-9
S-53lce Aces (9) 11-16 4- 11-27
S-54 Let's Cogitate 12-25 + 12-1S
(8)
S-55 Super Cue Men (..)
SPECIALS
A-901 Drunk Driving (21).... 3-27 + 3-1B
A-902 Going to Blares (21).. 4-24 H 5-1S
1948-49 SEASON
A-l Mighty Manhattan (..)
TOM & JERRY CARTOONS
(Tacanlnlor)
W-937 Kitty Foiled (7) 5-1 + 5-15
W-940 The True* Hurts (8) 4- 8-14
1948-49 SEASON
W-31 Old Roekln' Chair Tom
(7) 9-18 + 10-16
W-33 Professor Tom (8) 10-30 4- 11-27
W-35 Mouse Cleaning (7).... 12-11 + 12-18
Paramount
GRANTLAND RICE SPORTLIGHTS
(Technicolor)
R7 Double Barrelled Sport
(10)
R7- 7 Big Game Angling (10).. 3-26
R7- 8 Riding Habits (10) 4-30
R7 9 Big League Glory (10).. 6-11
R7-10 Her Favorite Pools (10) 7-30
1948-49 SEASON
R8-1 Hot Rod Speedsters (10). 11- 5
R8-2 Acrobatic Willi (10) ... .12-10
R8- 3 Sno 'time for Learning
(10) 1-21
R8- 4 In the Driver's Seat
(10) 3- 4
MUSICAL PARADES
. .
(Technicolor)
Mania (18) . . 2-27 ±
FF7-1 Samba
FF7-2 Footlight Rhythm (19).. 4- 9 ft
FF7-3 Gypsy Holiday (18)... 6-25 +
FF7-4 Tropical Masquerade
(16) 8-6 FF7-5 Big Sister Blues (14).. 10- 1 +
FF7-6 Catalina Interlude (18). 11-19 4-
NOVELTOONS
(Color)
P7-4 We're in the Honey (8) 3-19 4-
P7-5 The Bored Cuckoo (8) . . 4- 9 ft
P7-6 There's Good Boo's Tonight
(9) 4-23 +
P7-7 Land of the Lost (7) . . . . 5-7
P7-8 Butter Scotch and Soda
+
(8) 6-4
1948-49 SEASON
P8-1 The Mite Makes Right
+
(8) 10-15
P8-2 Hector's Hectic Life (7). 11-19 4-
PS-3 Old Shell Game (7).... 12-24 -f
P8-4The Little Cut-Up (7)... 1-21
PS-5 Hep Cat Symphony (7).. 2- 4
PACEMAKERS
K7-4 Musical Miracle (U) . . . 3-12 +
K7-5 A Model Is Born (7) . . 5-28
K7-6 Neighbor to the North
(13) 7-23
1948-49 SEASON
KS-1 Appointment With Baby
(11) 10- 8 ft
K8-2Mr. Groundling Takes the Air
(11) 12-3 4-
KS-3 Make Mine Monica (11) 1-14 ±
PARAMOUNT NEWS
(Released Twice Weekly)
POPEYE CARTOONS
(Color)
E7-3 Wigwam Whoopee (8)... 2-27 ft
E7-4 Pre-Hysterical Man (7).. 3-26 ff
E7-5 Popeye Meets Hercules
(7) 6-18 +
Wolf In Sheik's Clothing
E7-6 A
(8) 7-30 4-
E7-7 Spinach vs. Hamburgers
(8) 8-27 4-
E7-8Snow Place Like Home
(7) 9-3
1948-49 SEASON
EB-1 Robin Hood- Winked (7). 11-12 +
ES-2 Symphony In Spinach (. .) 12-31
POPULAR SCIENCE
J7-3 Streamlined Luxury (10) 2-20 ±
J7-4 Fog Fighters (10) 4- 2 ±
J7-5The Big Eye (10) 5-21 4-
J7-6 Flving Wing (10) 1-6
1948-49 SEASON
J8-1 Solar Secrets (10) 12-24 4-
SCREEN SONGS
X7-3Llttlt Brown Jug (8)-.. 2-20 +
X7-4The Golden State (8).. 3-12 +
X7-5 Winter Draws On (7)... 3-19 ft
ft
X7-6Slng or Swim (8) 6-14
X7-7 Camptown Races (8) . 7-16 +
X7-8The Una Star State (9) 8-20 ±
1948-49 SEASON
X8-1 Readln'. Rltln' and
Rhvthmetle (7) 10-22 ft
X8-2The Fimshfni State 1- 7
(7)..
X8-3The Emerald Isle (7)... 2-25
SPEAKING OF ANIMALS
Y7-5 'Taint So (18) 4-16 ±
Y7-6 Headllners (10) 6-18 4-
1948-49 SEASON
VR-1 Th. Gnu Look (10) 10-20 -f
YS-2 Calling All Animals (10) 1- 7
Y8-3 Meet the Champ (9) 2-11
UNUSUAL OCCUPATIONS
(Magnacolor)
L7-4 Nirartd Artists (10) ... 4-16 ±
L7-5 Feather Finery (10) ... 5-14 +
L7-6 Aerial Hit Rod< (10). 8-13 4
1948-49 SEASON
L«.1 Th, fit.,, Orch«tri (10). 11-76 4-
L8-2The Early Bird (10) ... 1-29
L8-3The Flying Dancers (10). 3-11
RKO Radio
Prod. No. Title Rtl. Date Rating*
• DISNEY CARTOON*}
(Technicolor)
84.704 Alpine Climbers (reissue)
(10) 4-2 ff
f
74.116 Daddy Duck (7) 4-16 + 6
FLICKER FLASHBACKS
84.205 No. 5 (8) 4-19 ±
j
84.206 No. 6 (9) 5-21 4- 1
84.207 No. 7 (8) 7-2 + I
LEON ERROL COMEDIES
83.702 Don't Fool Your Wife
(18) 3-5 ± 3
9 i 6
83.703 Secretary Trouble (17) 4-
83.704 Bachelor Blues (17).. 9-17 4- ll
1948-49 SEASON
93.701 Uninvited Blonde (17). 11-12 '
1
93.702 Backstage Follies (19). 12-24
MY PAL SERIES
83,202 Pal's Adventure (20).. 6-11 + It
1948-49 SEASON
93.201 Pal's Return (19) 11-26 3
PATHE SPORTSCOPES
. . (8) . 3- 5 4- *
54.307 Teen-Age Tars
84.308 Doggone Clever (8) ... 4- 2 4- 1
84.309 Big Mouth Bass (8)... 4-30 + 1
84.310 Muscles and the Lady
(9) 5-28 + *
in 84.311 Ladies Wading (8) 6-25 4- I
.
54.312 Athletic Varieties (8r. 7-23 + I
84.313 Strikes to Spare
(8) 8-20 4- 10
1948-49 SEASON
94.301 Texas Redheads (8)... 9-24 ± ll
94.302 Frozen Fun (8) 10-22 ± ll
94.303 Athletic Stars (8) 11-19 1
RAY WHITLEY WESTERN MUSICJsJ
1948-49 SEASON
93.501 Keep Shooting (16)... 9-10 * 11
.3
93.502 Range Rhythm (17)... 10-15
93. 503 Cactus Capers (17).... 11- 19 1
SCREEN LINER
1948-49 SEASON
Magic (7) 10-29 + U
f
94.2Q1 Jan August and Piano
94.202 Block Party (7) 11-26
94.203 It Pays to Be Ignorant
(-) 12-24
SPECIALS
83,601 Twenty Years of Academy
4]
Awards (19) 4-2 ft
83.801 Basketball Headlines of 1948
(18) 4-23 I
80.84? Louls-Walcott Fight No. 2
(18) 6-25
-J
1948-49 SEASON
93.901 Football Headlines of 1948
(16) 12-10 J
THIS IS AMERICA
H I
83.105 Photo Frenry (16) .... 3- 5
83.106 Funny Business
(18) 4-2 4- »
83.107 Democracy's Diary (16) 4-30 ft I
to a ft S3 109 Letter Rebel (17) 6-25 1
83.110 Sports Golden Age (17) 7-23 4- f
83.111 Glamour Street (16).. 8-20 ff I
83.112 Fritnd of the Family
(16) 9-17 ff 11
Who's Delinquent?
83.113
(17) 10-15 + 11
1948-49 SEASON
93.101 County Fair (17) ... .11-12 ft if
in Girls 93.102 White (17).. 12-10 ft 1*
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide
-J

"
)
20th Century-Fox Universal-International
lid' No. Title Rel. Date Rating Rev'd
Title Rel. Dale Rating Rev'd
ANSWER MAN SERIES
•_'' 1 \ id, Curves and Trapdoor
(8) 12-22
3392 Hall of Fame (7) 1-19 ± 4-3
3393 Men, Women and Motion
(8) 3-15 + 5-29
3394 Flood Waters (8) 4-26 + 7-24
3395 Mighty Timber (9) 6-21 H 7-31
3396 Rockets of the
MARCH OF TIME
Future (8) 7- 5
3397 Water Battlers (7) 8-16
14. No. 5 The Presidential
Year (18) 12-26
3398 Home of the Iceberg (8) 8-23 10-30
14, No. 6 The Cold War
(18) 1-24 H 1-31
1. 14, No. 7 Marriage and Divorce
(17) Feb...H 2-28 LANTZ CARTUNES
1.14, No. 8 Crisis in Italy
(Technicolor— Reissues)
(17) Mar. + 4-10
3321 Knock
1.14, No. 9 Lite With
Knock (reissue)
Junior
(7) Mar.
(18) Apr.
14. No. 10 Battle for Greece
3322 Syncopated Sioux (7) May
(18) May + 515 3323 Woody Woodpecker (7).... July
1. 14, No. 11 The Fight Game
3324Scrub
(18) June + 6-12
Me Mamma (7)... Sept.
1. 14, No. 12 The Case of Mrs.
3325 Nutty Pine Cabin (7)... Oct.
Conrad (18) July 7-10
-ft
1948-49
14. No. 13 White SEASON
Collar Girls
4321 Pantry Panic
(17) Aug.
(7) Nov.
+ R- 7
1. 14, No. 14 Life With Grandpa
4322 Hollywood Matador (7) . . . Nov.
(19) Sept. +f 9-18
L 14, No. 15 Battle for
Germany (19) Oct. ff 10-16
14, No. 16 America's New Air
MUSICAL WESTERNS
'
Power (19) Nov.
3351 Hidden Valley Days (27) 2- 5 ± 3-13
14. No. 17 Answer to Stalin
(19) Nov. +
3352 Powder River Gunfire
14, No. IS Watchdogs of the
(24) 2-
Mail (IS) Dec. +
3353 Echo Ranch (25) 4-
1948-49 SEASON
MOVIETONE ADVENTURES 4351 Six Gun Music (24)
54 ©Copenhagen Pageantry
4352 Cheyenne Cowboy ( . .
(8) Jan. Sky Thrills (9) Mar. ©Scenic Sweden (8) June +
04 Majesty of Yellowstone
NAME BAND MUSICALS
(9) .July H 6-5
©Riddle of Rhodesia (8). July 8-14 3303 Carlos Molina & Orch.
57 ©Bermuda (8) .Aun. Aug. + 8-14
(15) ...12-31 + 1
MDnert Lights (8) Aug. 4- 8-14 3304 Tex Beneke & Orch. (15) 3- 3 + 3
»©Portrait of the West (S) Oct. +
3305 Woody Herman & Orch.
60 ©Way of the Padres (8).. Dec.
(15) 3-3 + 4
3306 Red Ingle and His Natural
MOVIETONE SPECIALTY
Seven (15) 6-16 ± 5
I City (lD.StoL +
3307 Tex Williams & Orch. in
Western Whoopee (15). 6-23 ++ 7
3308 Jimmy Dorsey & Orch. (15) 8-18
3309 Charlie Barret & Orch.
in Redskin Rhumba (15) 9-15
3310 Buddy Rich & Orch. (15) 10-13 ± 10
1948-49 SEASON
4301 Rhythm Masters (15)... 12- 8 + 1
4302 Lawrence Welk & Orch.
(15) 1-5
Olympic Water Wizards
SING AND BE HAPPY SERIES
(9) Nov.
Yankee Ski-Doodle (9)... Dec. +
2388 Lamp Post Favorites (9) 2- 2 ± 4
3381 Spotlight Serenade (10). 3-29 ± 4
TERRYTOONS
3362Singin'^he Blues (10).. 6-14 + 7
3383 River Melodies (10) .... 7- 5 + 7
Talking Magpies in Hitch
Hikers (7) 12-21
3354 Songs of the Season (10) .10-11
Mighty Mouse in Lazy Little
3355 Hits of the Nineties (10) .10-18
Beaver (7) 12-26
3386 Let's Sing a Love Song
Felix the Fox (7) Jan.
(10) 11-22
Talking Magpies in Taming
the Cat 3387 Sing While You Work
(7) Jan.
One Note Tony (10) 11-29
(7) Feb.
Mighty Mouse and the Magician
1948-49 SEASON
. (7) Mar.
4381 Choo Choo Swing (10).. 11- 1 ± 1-
il5 Gandy Goose and the Chipper
4382 The Year Around (10).. 12- 6
Chipmunk (7)' Mar.
Hounding the Hares 4383 Songs of Romance (
(7). .Apr.
. .
Mighty fcouse and the Feudin'
DRIBBLE PUSS PARADE
PS Dying to Live (9) May +
FEMININE WORLD
a Something Old—Something New
(Ilka Chase) (8) Feb. +
a Fashioned tor Action
(Ilka Chase) (8) Apr. ±
SPORTS
©Aqua Capers (8). ......Jin. Olympic Class (10) Feb. +
53 ©Playtime in Scandinavia
(8) Apr. H
Everglades Adventure (9) . . May ±
I Football Finesse (10) . . . .Sept. +
(7),
(7)
I Mighty Mouse In the
Line (7), reissue. -May
Talking Magpies
Wght (7)
Mighty Mouse in the Witch'i Cat
(7) July
The Talking Magpies in Magpie
Madness (7) July
Mighty Mouse in Love's Labor
Won (7) Aug.
The Hard Boiled Egg (7). Sept.
Mighty Mouse and the Mysterious
Stranger (7) OcL
The Talking Magpies In Free
Enterprise (7) ...Oct
Mighty Mouse in Triple
Trouble (7) Nov.
8 Talking Magpies in Out Again,
Again (7) Nov.
529 Mighty Mouse in the Magic
10-23
10-23
SPECIALS
2201 Fight of the Wild Stallion
(20) 12-24 #
3201 Snow Capers (19) 2-18 +
1948-49 SEASON
4201 Cheating in Gambling (..)...
4203 Christmas Dream (11).. 11-22
UNIVERSAL NEWS
(Released Twice Weekly)
VARIETY VIEWS
3343 Brooklyn Makes Capital
(10) 2- 9
3344 Whatla Built (10) 6- 7
3345 Copa Carnival (9) 6-28
3346 Paris on the Plata (9).. 7-12
3347 Gaucho Fiesta (9) 816
3348 Call of the Canyon (10). 10-18
1948-49 SEASON
4341 Canada Calls (9) 11- 8
Warner Bros.
Prod. No. Title Rel. Date Rating I
BLUE RIBBON HIT PARADE
(Technicolor)
4306 Cjrcus Today (7) 5-22
4307 Little Blabber Mouse (7) 6-12 +
4308 The Squawkin' Hawk (7) 7-10 +
4309 Tale of Two Kitties
(7) 7-31
4310 Pigs in a Polka (7) . . . 8-14
4311 Greetings Bait (7) 8-28
4312 Hiss and Make Up 9-18
(7)..
4313 Hollywood Steps Out (7). 10- 2
1948-49 SEASON
5301 An Itch in Time (7) 10-30 +
5302 Finn Catty (..) 12-11
BUGS BUNNY SPECIALS
(Technicolor)
3723 Rabbit Punch (7) 4-10 +
3724 Buccaneer Bunny (7) . . . 5-8
3725 Bugs Bunny Rides Again
(7) 6-12 +
Daredevil Hare (7) 7-24
3726
1948-49 SEASON
4719 Hot Cross Bunny 8-21
(7) . . .
4720 Hare Splitter (7) 9-25 H 1
4721 My Bunny Lies Over Sea the
(7) 12-
FEATURETTE
1948-49 SEASON
+ 5101 Football Magic (20).... 9-11 9-
5102 Grandfather's Follies
(20) Reissue 11-13 + 12-
JOE McDOAKES COMEDIES
4405 So You Want to Build
a House (10) 5-15
So You Want 4406 to Be a
± Detective (10) 6-26 8-2
1948-49 SEASON
5401 So You Want to Be in
Politics (10) 10-23 ± 9-
So You Want to the
5402 Be on
Radio (10) 11- 6
MELODY MASTERS
+ 4606 Henry Busse i Orch. (10) 5-15 6-1
4607 The Saturday Night Swing
± Club (10) 6-19 7-1
4608 Joe Reichman & Orch.
(10) 7-17 + 8-2
MEMORIES OF MELODY LANE
4205 Let's Sing a Stephen Foster
4705 The Rattled Rooster (7) 6-26
+ 4704 Up-Standing Sitter (7) . . 7- 3 9-18
4703 The Shell Shocked Egg
(7) 7-10
You 4706 Were Never Duckier
(7) 8-7
Dough 8-14
4707 Ray Me-Ow (7)..
4708 The Pest That Came to Dinner
(7) 9-11
4709 Odor of the Day (7) ... .10- 2 11-13
4710 The Foghorn Leghorn (7) 10- 9 + 11-6
4711 A Lad in His Lamp (7) . .10-23
4712 Daffy Dilly (7) 10-30 ++ 11-13
4713 Kit for Cat (7) 11- 6 12-4
4714 Stupor Salesman (7).... 11-20 12-4
4715 Riff Raffy Daffy (7). ..11-27 + 12-4
4716Scaredy Cat (7) 12-18
SPORTS NEWS REVIEW
1948-49 SEASON
5601 Roaring Wheels (10).... 10- 2 9-4
5602 Ski Devils (10) 12-4 + 12-4
SPORTS PARADE
(Technicolor)
4508 Built for Speed (10) .... 6- 5 7-24
4509 Fighting Athletes (10).. 5- 1 + 5-1
4510 The Race Rider (10).... 6-19 + 7-17
4503 A Nation on Skis (10) 7-31
.
4511 Playtime in Rio (10).. 8-14
4511 Sports Down Under (10) 9-18
4513 Gauchos of the Pampas
(10) 10-9 + 11-13
1948-49 SEASON
5501 Jungle Man Killers (10) 11- 6 + 9-4
5502 Sportsmen of the Far East
(10) 12-18 + 12- 4
TECHNICOLOR ADVENTURES
4806 Living With Lions (20) .6-5
1948-49 SEASON
5801 Mysterious Ceylon (10).. 9-25 + 9-4
5802 Bannister's Bantering Babies
+ (10) 12-11 12-4
TECHNICOLOR SPECIALS
Calgary Stampede (19).. 5-29 + 4005 6-12
4006 A Day at the Fair (20) .7-3 H 7-24
4007 The Man From New Orleans
(20) 9-4
4008 My Own United States
(20) 10-16 tt 9-4
1948-49 SEASON
5001 Sons of Liberty (21)
Reissue 11-20 4- 9-4
5003 Princely India (20) 12-25 +f 1-1
WARNER-PATHE NEWS
SHORTS CHART
Miscellaneous
Prod. No. . Title Rel. Date Ratir
ASTOR
Vol. 1, No. 1 ©Makers of Destiny
(15) ±
REPUBLIC
CARTOON
761 ©It's a Grand Old Nag
(8) 12-20 H
SERIALS
694 The Black Widow 11- 1
13 Chapters
791G-Men Never Forget 1-31
12 Chapters
792 Dangers of the Canadian
Mounted 4-24
12 Chapters
793 Dick Tracy Returns
(re-release) 7-17
15 Chapters
794 Adventures of Frank and
Jesse James 10-30
13 Chapters
. . . Federal Agents vs. Underworld,
Inc. (12 Chapters) .. 1-29
UNITED ARTISTS
LANTZ CARTUNES
(Technicolor)
...Banquet Busters (7) 3-12 -\
... Kiddie Koncert (7) 4-2 4f
. . . Wacky Bye Baby (7) . . . . 7-16 ±
... Pixie Picnic (7) 6-14 -ft
... Wet Blanket Policy (7) . . 8-27
. . Playful Pelican (7) 9-8
1948-49 SEASON
... Dog Tax Dodgers (6).... 11-26
... Wild and Woody (6) 12-31
LOEW MUSICOLOR
...Engulfed Cathedral (7) June +
... Moonlight (7) 8-29 +
. . . Enchanted Lake (7) 10-30 +
. . . Fingal's Cave (10) 3-26 ±
. . . Liebestraum (7) 5- 7
INDEPENDENTS
Make Way for Youth (18)
Nat'l Social Welfare Ass'n. .
+
A Matter of Time (20) Carroll Films ±
Hungry Minds (11) National Film
Board ±.
Mercy Flight (10) National Film
Board +
All-American Soap Box Derby
(25) Emerson Yorke +
Cyrano de Bergerac (10)
English Films +
The Church in the Atomic Age (19)
Film Program Service +
First Steps (11) Film
Program Service -f-
Children's Republic (23)
A.F. Films H
A-l, 3-C, 4-D Spiritual Singa-Longs
(10) Sack +
Pretty Woman (10) Sack +
Piano Moods (10) Sack +
This Way to Nursing (20)
Emerson Yorke +
Science in Bloom (10) National
Film Board of Canada +
Get Rid of Rats (10) National
Film Board of Canada +
It's Fun to Sing (10) National
Film Board of Canada +
Highlights of the United Nations
Year (10> Siritzky Infl +
Fact and Fantasy (7) A.F. Films.. -
Kabylia (10) A.F. Films +
Journey to Mecca (15) A.F. Films.. +
. . . Memories of Shakespeare (30)
Hoffberg +
... The Work of Charles Dickens
(30) Holfberg -
214
4-17
4-24
4-17
9-20
9-20
12- <
2-14
2-28
3-U
5- 8
5-29
5-29
5-2J
7-24
9- 4
9- 4
9- 4
9-18
10- 2
10- 2
10- 2
10-16
10-30
10-30
10-30
12-11
12-11
BOXOFFICE BookinGuide : : January 8. 1949

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• •
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:
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:
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SHORTS REVIEWS
Opinions en the Carrent Short Subjects-
Make Mine Monica
(Pacemaker) 11 Mjis.
Fai*. ] lewis,
A Portrait of the West
:-
n rr-
20th-Fox (Movietone Adventure) 8 Mins.
Good.
ike ;
- xlso in-
Out Again, in Again
(Heckle and Jeckle Terrytoon)
20th-Fox
7 Mins.
Good.
: id trestle and
In the Newsreels
Movietone News, No. 104: Rescue =:
.; I e enkmd ice a zp: war v
rs party at Halloran hospital; I
idans ;
rs practice in F
'.
~::z..
News of the Day. No. 234: Varooned c
a ends bq
I
-
.:-.- in Florida
Exhibitor Has His Say
-'
Pittsburgh [S I
Deep
20th CENTUHY-FOX
nment for Peg-
Wate.-;
F
D
Beau
—good
*
.'
par :z: t
ronage *
Urubu. the Story of Vulture People (UA)—
md all-
—Fran!
7
b il .:
-
_ Okay.
rheab
mage * *
^ Urubu. the Story of Vulture People (UA)—
si native Dost
—"•'---
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL.
Rainy
z
Larceny ?3yne. Joan Caulfield.
April
Showers
WARNER BROS.
Paramount News, No. 37: Headline r.ev
Universal News. No. 208: Steal
s :ue by air and sea; 16-inch
= z:zpz~z : China
- -.—
Wamer Pathe News, No. 39:
airmen an i
E
A -i -.:;..;- r .:.-. : .: z zzzzzp
r
F
i: fashion
Movietone News, No. 105: Sports highlights i
News of the Day. No. 235: Spat
1948.
Paramount News. No. 38: Atom ore pitci
blend bonanza in Cfetoradc V;
|
re::::.-:: .--.z in
Universal News. No. 209: End
tread Ere f
lorse
race
Warner Pathe News, No. 40: Yearend review
All American News. No. 323: New
E
iemonstraj
• •
•
That Lady in Ermine
Dark Passage (WB)—Humphrey Bogart,
Telenews Digest No. 52: Christinas 1948;
sr gc
:.'.etins
Red ::::= old icrr.diiiarl
F
Kevlz
Cold.—Haa Beau Theatre, Bell
Four
UNITED
ARTISTS
re to be
F
Winter Meeting [WB -
Bette
i a big-
Played lues
ratronl
the High Se=s
I
people c;
BOXOFFICE BoolrinGuide : : January 8,

;
)pinions on Current Productions; Exploitips for Selling to the Public
—
FEATURE REVIEWS
The Sun Comes Up
MGM ( ) 95 Minutes Rel.
At first blush, the teaming of Songbird Jeanette_MacDonald,
Moppet Claude Jarman jr. and Lassie may seem a strange
morsel of cas;ing. Herein, however, the utilization of an
adroit story idea, carefully selected group of supporting
a
mummers, top-grade direction and lush production values
including Technicolor—makes the combination a natural
for a human, diverting, heart-warming feature which should
have a strong appeal to average film fans. True, the supersophisticated
and hypercritical may opine that the film goes
mushy attaining suspenseful climactic sequences,
too its
but those shortcomings— if they be such—should be more
than offset by the above-listed assets. Most of the action
takes place in the mountainous hinterlands, which makes
possible the picture's beautiful backgrounds, the quaint humor
and homely philosophies. Directed by Richard Thorpe.
Jeanette MacDonald. Lloyd Nolan. Claude Jarman jr., Lewis
Stone. Percy Kilbride, Nicholas Joy, Lassie.
This Was a Woman
20th-Fox (903) 102 Minutes Rel. Ian. "49
3
Wake of the Red Witch
Republic (803) 106 Minutes ReL
S.urdy, seafaring adventures, sex. spectacle and scope ari
the sure-lire ingredients which establish the scrof
Garland Roark's best-seller as one of 1949s
•
picture which should chalk up highly-profitable I
bookings. In length and in quality it is endowed to go i
alone or head a dual bill in theatres of every
tional financial promise is lent the olfering through the fac
that John Wayne—because of his part in the current!
successful "Red River"—is hotter than the pre.
cracker. His performance herein again is of
caliber, a fast Thespian pace which is matched by virtuall
every member of a 3trong suppor.ing cast. Productionwis
and in all technical details the film is geared lo
last drop of action, suspense and excite.
knit screenplay. Expertly directed by Edward Ludwig.
John Wayne. Gail Russell. Gig Young. Adele Mara. Luthe
Adler. Eduard Franz. Grant Withers. Henry DanielL
Loaded Pistols
Columbia (181) 79 Minutes Rel. la
F
A neat and very English film about a mother whose insatiable
desire for power nearly ruins the lives of cril who come in
contact with her. It is well acted by players who aren't
known to American audiences, with Sonia Dresdel in the
leading role supplying an especially effective characterization.
Produced by Marcel Hellman and directed by Tim
Whelan for Excelsior, it dwells a little heavily on highmindedness
and proper social conduct. The psychological
story will appeal to art theatre patronage, but it is doubtful
il the average audience will find it sufficiently gripping, and
it runs a little long for use on a double feature program.
Determined to have her own way, the mother deliberately
frightens her daughter on the eve of her wedding, corrupts
an innocent young maid and finally poisons her inoffensive
husband in the belief a more important man will marry her.
Sonia Dresdel. Barbara White. Walter Fitzgerald. Cyril Raymond.
Marjorie Rhodes, Emrys Jones. Celia Lipton.
Secrets of a Ballerina
Distinguished Films 84 Minutes Rel. Dec. 29. '48
Pierre Blanchar, star of "Crime and Punishment" and
"Symphonie Pastorale," will be the principal attraction for
the potential foreign-language audiences of this new film
from France. He also directed the picture, based on a
Balzac novel of early 19th century France. The flashback
device is used to tell the tragic love story of a nobleman,
his ballerina-wife and the wife's old lover who tries to blackmail
her. Blanchar is the husband, Micheline Presle, the
wife, and Robert Vattier, the blackmailer. All three are killed.
In spite of the tragedy, the film has few exciting moments.
The pace is slow and the continuity disjointed. On the credit
side is the beauty of Miss Presle, good photography, interesting
outdoor and indoor scenes and the period costumes
worn by French nobility. Arthur Honneger's music also rates.
Pierre Blanchar. Micheline Presle. lulien Bertheau, Robert
Vattier.
What's on Your Mind?
Oxford Films
Documentary
90 Minutes Rel. Dec. 25. '48
This is a three-pa film dealing with psychology and
psychiatry. One section, "The Feeling of Rejection," was
produced by the National Film Board of Canada and shows
how a child's life can be warped by the constant fears of
its mother for its safety. Another section, "Problems of
Sleep," produced by Realist Film of London, details the
workings of the brain. The third, "The Feeling of Inferiority,"
produced by Caravel Films, is the only one with a real story,
that of a shy girl who learned the way to self-confidence
through happy school associations. The lilm does no; belong
in the entertainment classification, and it is not for children
because it deals mainly with misunderstanding parents and
has some scenes of surgical operations. However, it has
exploitable values and could be a second feature in some
houses. Oxford Films' address is 1819 Broadway.
1002 BOXOFFICE
r - :;T
Producer Gene Autry remains a cowboy in this
western—a guitar-strumming, last-riding, soft-spoken cowboy
whose gun fights are all to protect others. Plot is stereotyped
and various chases over hills and through rocky canyons
are staged wi h an eye to spectacular effect on the audience.
Barbara Britton is cast in the role of a girl trying to
help her brother escape hanging because his gun has been
used to shoot a man during a brief lighs-out period over a
crap game. Theme song of the picture, which /
riding casually along with magnificent scenery on each side,
is "Loaded Pistols" and the trouble these cause along with
"loaded dice." Gene helps the girl and her brother, but is
constantly suspected by them of being ready to double-cross
them, until he unmasks the real killer. Can go top-side in
action houses. John English directed.
Gene Autry, Barbara Britton. Chill Wills. Jack Holt. Russell
Arms. Robert Shayne. Vince Barnett.
Shep Comes Home
Screen Guild (- 60 Minutes lei. Dec. 25.
That near-infallible formula about the orphan t
dog is again employed as the framework for a modestly
budgeted supporting feature. The word formula i
used inasmuch as the story follows with unerring accuracy
countless predecessors which came out of the same mold.
But the tried-and-true repetition can be considered as an
asset rather than a liability, especially in view of the iact
that the ancient yarn here is convincingly delineated by an
above-average cast and is spun against an inter'
em background. Adding further worth to the offering is the
presence of a much larger comedy content than
most films of its theme and class. Resultantly, thi
thoroughly dependable to substantially bolster the topside
booking in theatres of any size or location. W
directed by Ford Beebe for Producer Ron Ormond
Robert Lowery, Billy Kimbley. Margia Dean, Martin Garralaga,
Sheldon Leonard. Michael Whalen. Flame.
Valiant Hombre
United Artists (600) 60 Minutes Rel. Jan. 21.49
ing through numberless cdveeen
and over
Robin Hood of the
|
cruited as the cn-r
which thi.
entry for O. Henry's gallant Castries
in the lineup will have to show cor.
enjoyed. This time it is Duncan Renaldo in thi
He does as well as could be expected when or.
the weakness of the kickoff yarn, which leans toward dialog
at the expense of the bang-bang action whicfans
expect in all westerns. Leo Carrillo is Pancho and
makes a strikingly unsuccessful pass at supplying the comedy
content. Directed by Wallace Fox.
Duncan Renaldo. Leo Carrillo. John Litel. Barbara Billingsley.
Guy Beach. Stanley Andrews. Lee (Lasses) White.

. . . And
. . That
. . Bringing
. . The
. . The
. . The
. . The
. . Surging
. . The
. . And
. . Gene's
. . Gene
. . . Here's
. . . Laden
. . . Famous
. . Famous
. . Her
. . She
EXPLOITIPS
Suggestions for Selling; Adlines for Newspaper and Programs
SELLING ANGLES: "Wake oi the Red Witch"
Make over the lobby and theatre front in nautical fashion
through the use of ships' bells, life preservers and other
maritime paraphernalia, and dress attendants in sailors' garb.
Scour the community for an old-time sailing ship mariner and
set up a radio and/or newspaper interviews with him on his
experiences. Make the usual library and book store tieups
on the book by Garland Roark from which the picture was
made. Promote a ship-model building contest among the
juveniles, with the winning entries given inexpensive merchandise
prizes.
CATCHLINES:
In All World History . . . Never Was There So Bitter a
Rivalry Between Two Men ... An Enmity of Titanic Proportions
. Only the Death of One or the Other Could
Resolve ... All They Had in Common Was—Greed.
Boundless Adventure . Fabulous Story of Two Men
Who Raced to Grab the Almost Untouched Wealth of the
Indies ... An Immortal Epic of Dark Deeds and Wild Rapture
... Of Treachery and Unconquered Love.
SELLING ANGLES:
"The Sun Comes Op"
If there is car-parking space in conjunction with your
theatre, set part of it aside for a "dog-park" and arrange
to have the animals cared for while their owners are seeing
the picture. Don't forget tieups with stores handling Red
Heart dog iood, since that company sponsors a radio show
starring Lassie. Stage an "I Love a Lassie" contest with prizes
for the best photos of girls with their dogs, using the winning
entries in lobby easels. Launch a "Lassie Fan Club,"
distributing membership cards to your juvenile patrons.
CATCHLINES:
Yes, It's Lassie . . . The Greatest Animal Star of All Time
... In the Most Heart-Warming Picture You've Seen in Years
... A Story of Plain Ordinary Folks Living Out Their Lives
in Rugged Hill Country.
Remember "The Yearling" . . . And "The Green Years?"
Another MGM Hit That You Can't Afford to Miss
With Technicolor Thrills . . . Starring the World's
Most Famous Dog . . . Lassie.
SELLING ANGLES: "Loaded Pistols" SELLING ANGLES: "This Was a Woman"
While a grade higher than the average western, this will
have to be sold to the same type of audiences because it
lacks super-western s;ory strength and production values.
Use stills of Gene Autry and his horse in the lobby and make
tieups with the stores that handle his anthology called
"Gunsmoke Yarns" (Dell Publishing Co., 25 cents) and the
monthly magazine, Gene Autry Comics. There are also two
Gene Autry novels which might be given as prizes in a
roping contest on stage.
CATCHLINES:
Loaded Pistols and Loaded Dice Explode into Gene's Greatest
Adventure . West Isn't Big Enough to Escape the
Vengeance of the World's Greatest Cowboy . Smokes
Out a Killer and Champion Brings Him In.
Gene and Champion Break the West Wide Open to Ride
a Killer Down . Greatest of All Western Stars Brings
You His Latest Thrill-Topping Adventure . a One-
Man Posse and Champion's a One-Horse Whirlwindl
Make the main appeal to women. Circularize women's
societies and have advertising matter printed on the paper
bags used by groceries and butcher shops. Stress Kipling's
saying: "The female of the species is more deadly than the
male" . . . Since the leading character is very modish, display
stills of the film in women's shops with examples of
extreme styles. Beauty parlor tieups also can be worked
out along the same lines.
CATCHLINES:
The Female Is More Deadly Than the Male . . . She Killed
the Love of Those Around Her ... A Woman's Lust for Power
Poisons Her Whole Family ... A Mother's Poisoned Words
Wreck Her Daughter's Romance . Was Charming but
as Poisonous as a Cobra.
Charming? Yes, but So Evil] . . . Family Love Can Give Way
Her Evil Ambition Dominated All Who Knew Her . . .
to Hale Hot Ambition Drove Her Even to Murder .
A Charming, Hateful Woman.
. .
SELLING ANGLES: "Shep Comes Home" SELLING ANGLES: "Secrets of a Ballerina"
For a lobby centerpiece, build or borrow a doghouse and
promote the loan of a pup. Attach a placard with copy such
as: "I'm waiting to see 'Shep.' " Enlist cooperation of the
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in a "find
a home for a dog" campaign. Stencil sidewalks leading to
your theatre with paw prints. Don't neglect tieups with pet
stores, with which stills from the picture can be planted for
window display. Stage a "mutt-dog" contest with prizes for
the longest and shortest, the dog looking most like "Shep," etc.
CATCHLINES:
A Story Tied With Heartstrings . . . Alive With the Thrill
of Youth . Fire of Conflict . . . And the Grandeur of
the Great Outdoors . Thrillingly Tender Drama of a
Great-Hearted Dog . With Excitement.
It Will Put a Catch in Your Throat . . . And Warmth in
Your Heart . . . Loaded With the Kind of Rugged Adventure
Heart-Stirring Drama . . . That's Too Wonderful to
Miss . You a Thousand Thrills.
The film can be sold in the usual manner :o foreignlanguage
and art audiences. Special emphasis might be
placed 'on Pierre Blanchar, the star. He has earned a solid
reputation with foreign film patrons here for his work in
"Crime and Punishment" and in the current release, "Symphonie
Pastorale." Possible suggestions include tieups with
schools and colleges which might be interested because of
the French and Balzac angles.
CATCrttJNES:
Shall a Wife Tell Everything? . . . Secrets No Wife Would
Want to Share . . . Threatened by Her Past, Fearful of Her
Future . . . Vengeful Lover, Worried Wife, Jealous Husbandl
Wife Torn Between Love and Honor . . . The Truth No
Husband Could Bear ... A Marriage Shattered by the Wife's
Past .
. . She Had to Tell the Truth, But Couldn't.
SELLING ANGLES:
""Valiant Hombre"
Point up in your advertising the fact that herein the "Cisco
Kid," widely-known border Robin riood, returns to the screen
in the first of a new series of adventures. Transform the
lobby and boxoffice to resemble an oldtime California
Rancho, using Mexican pottery, blankets and some cactus
for greenery. Organize a "Cisco Kid Rangers" club among
the juveniles. If a local radio station carries the Cisco Kid
network show, arrange for spot announcements in conjunc-
'tion with it.
CATCHLINES:
North of the Border Thrills . . . And South of the Border
Romance ... As Your Old Friend, the Cisco Kid, Returns
. . . He's a Fighting Fury Blasting the Badlands ... In the
Hottest Adventure of His Career.
Follow the Cisco Kid to New Heights of Thrills and Danger
... As He Rides Along the Terror Trail . . . Looking for
Adventure and Trouble . Finding Plenty of Both . . .
It's Packed Wi:h Sock Excitement ... As the Border Robin
Hood Heads Your Way . . . With a Thousand Thrills.
Paig
iyer"
SELLING ANGLES: •What'! Your Mind?"
Make your appeal direct to parents, pointing out that
while none are perfect, too many err in their method of
bringing up their children and that the film exposes some
of the more common faults. Make the point also that they
should not bring their children, because these would recognize
and take advantage of their parents' shortcomings.
Stress the fact that the film is authoritative, having been
produced by psychologists.
CATCHLINES:
Can Your Children's Faults Be Due to You? See
Psychologists Reveal the Mistakes of Parenthood
. Psychologists Expose the Causes of Nightmares,
Headaches and Backward Children . . . Don't Bring
the Children to See This. It May Show You Up as a Parent.
Are Parents Perfect? The Answer Is No ... A Sympathetic,
Revealing Study of Childhood Emotions . . . Shy Children
Can Be Taught Self-Confidence . . . Every Parent Should
See
Understand Your Child.

i
; Simplex
. 602 W. 52nd St.. New York 19. i
I
Boxoffice,
i
3422
ti
'•'•
I
n
l
10c per word, minimum $1.00, cash with copy. Four insertions ior price of three.
MG DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy and answers to
Numbers to BOXOFFICE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd.. Kansas City 1, Mo. •
i^ERAL EQUIPMENT—USED
"es; SOS Sills for Less and good stuff.
Jthlng leaves here unless It's absolutely
1.000 customers the world over built SOS
i buying here since 1926 because SOS
( less. 1949 catalog ready. Dept. C,
Inema Supply Corp. 602 W. 52nd St.,
is Educator Portable projectors with
les: lens: 1000W lamp; amplifier:
It. $667.50; Dual DeVry XD Transplete.
rtbuUt, $595; RCA low frebaffles,
north $300, $99.75; Dual
Arc Sound Projector outfit, com-
Rear Shutter Mechanisms,
)5: other Slmplexes from $69 50.
ready. Dept C. SOS Cinema Sup-
2 W. 52nd St., New York 19.
,11 clrhe-ln. Used
pair Strong IKW high Intensity
Ifiers like new. Cash or terms,
its. Inc.. 1014 Broadway. Cnlum-
2-7337.
t in : rt-rt itirrs : amplifiers: speakers,
ems. Stebbins. 1 804 Wyandotte.
, pair Holmes Portable Projectors,
>ases. lamp houses, speaker, spare
ix 89. Fayette. Idaho.
i: Pair of DeVry portables in good con-
10 features ail action type, $600. V. D.
Hondo, Texas.
&JERAL EQUIPMENT—NEW
aar speakers, No. 7600. waterproof, east
ti cases. $16.75 per set. DaWo Co., 145
edo,
Ohio.
lion bulbs. General Electric, 1.000-watt.
I kill Pre-focus. C13D. Government surplus,
final packages. List $6.25 our price $1.25
dozen) limited
otherwise C.O.D. Jules Epslein.
'arkway. Bronx 67. N. Y.
Safety Carbon Savers. Ask your thea-
THEATRES WANTED
privately. Confidential cor-
Leak Theatre Sales. 3422
1109 Orchard Lane. " Des
theatre for sale? Our cash buyers are
We get quick results. Will give you a
itlmate of your present theatre value.
today. "Joe" Joseph. 3409 Sunset Ave.
le 2-7G50, Dallas. Texas.
ir theatre for sale? I have buyers with
'."it h.'il theatres. Claude Crockett.
I National Bank Bldg.. Dallas, TeX.
R-9230.
letter. All confidential. Boxto
buy or lease theatre Town 2,000
or more. All information first letter.
ul. Prefer Virginia. North or South
Boxoffice. A-3266.
-IN
mill town thealre anyowned
and managed such theatres
Need month to dispose of present
OR OUTDOOR THEATRE
EQUIPMENT
deals to drive-ins. Order now. Skip payntll
opening. Complete sound projection
$l,.-,!l.- up: new 500-watt Western Elec-
JSter Amplifiers. $650: new Dual ln-car
with junction box and transformer. $16.75;
way entrance and exit signs. Illuminated,
burial cable, 6c ft.: Super Snapllte fl.
25%, from $150. Send i
• C, I
S.O S. Cinema Sup-
speakers. No. 7600. waterproof, cast
:ases. $16.75 per set. DaWo Co., 145
.. Toledo, Ohio.
"ICE :: January 8. 1949
STUDIO AND PRODUCTION
EQUIPMENT
Contemplating picture making? SOS has it.
Bl imped 35mm Askania studio camera, 3 lenses
4 magazines, synchronous motor, rebuilt. $995;
Neumade combination 16/35 mm Automatic Film
Cleaner, $350 value. $194.50; Riant Spotllte
Tripods 8 ft. high. $9.95: Belhowell 16mm Filmscoring
Viewers, government cost $300, $59.50:
fnit Eye shuttle for Belhowell. $650: Bardwell
McAlister 500OW Floodlights, .Mil. 75: Dlnkie
Inkles, $11.95; Baby Keglites. $54.75; Baby
Bonmlites. $114.60: 2000W Junior Spots.
$129.50; Double Broads. $114.65; 1/12 HP
110V Synchronous Motors, new. $57.50: B. Maurer
Variable Density Recording Outfit, $2,275: 35mm
threeway Sound Moviola, rebuilt, $895. Send Tor
Sturelab Catalog Supplement. Dept. ('. S.O.S.
Cinema Supply Corp., 602 W. 52nd St., New
York 19.
HELP WANTED
Wanted: Projectionists and theatre managers to
teach all phases of motion picture projection and
theatre management. High school education required,
college education preferred. Send summary
of education, training, experience, references,
marital status, age and state when available.
Excellent opportunity for men seeking a
secure future with opportunity for advancement.
Address National Theatre Institute. P.O. Box
5769. Dallas. Tex.
Wanted; Experienced theatre manager. Apply
Cooper-Kirsch Theatres Co., 1233 So. Wabash
Ave.. Chicago 5.
Wanted: House manager or experienced assistant
that knows theatre operation, for Norfolk and
Portsmouth, Virginia, territory. Airmail Special
Delivery qualifications and salary expected. Boxoffice.
A-3285.
Theatre
and full particula i
POSITIONS WANTED
A-3281
Go-getter, now assistant to general mar
iilwest circuit, must relocate immediately due
. uile's health; prefer California. Oregon, Wash
igton. Top man, 20 years all phases entertain
ent. heavy on public relations. No reasonable
isilion. salary refused. Exchange complete
Ills first letter. Boxoffice, A-3267.
Certified Public Accountant desires cxeculiv
position with motion picture exhibitor. Experi
eneed In circuit accounting and financing. Tei
years public accounting and tax experience. Avail
able immediately. Boxoffice. A-3268.
Purchasing Agent, six years experience. Urgl
lain background. Available now. Paul Kliebert
817 N. 36th St., Milwaukee. Wis
Capable booker, buyer, lliealre manager or exloiteer
desires position in Texas only Recommit.
it puis furnished 24 years experience Reply
II Duckett. It . B.ixotiiee.
40S So. Harvvood
Theatre manager. 15 years experience, including
ludeville. advertising, promotion references, young
rile, v.ue Manage. I.inlv. Box SS. Capo Mai
Buyer, booker or supervisor with excellent hacknund.
responsible, aggressive, desires connection
ixofflce, A 3286.
AIR CONDITIONING
Heavy duty blowers, ball-bearing equipped
15,000 cfm to 50,000 cfm. Air washers, al
sizes. Hydraulic drives, two and four spee<
motor and controls. Immediate delivery Dealer'
wanted. National Engineering and Mfg. Co.. 51f
Wyandotte St.. Kansas City. Mo.
Complete al:
5 hp motor. 25.000 SVC tan:
type, complete with recirculating
Boxoffice, A-3088.
MISCELLANEOUS
Comslete 24-boui tbe.il . .,.,.. new and used
equipment, plus nim
s, nice ami Bupplj I i 'i
I 197] or 01,. :
THEATRES FOR SALE
Theatres for sale. Texas and southwest. Licensed
broker with long theatre background. Claude
Crockett. 1505 First National Bank Rldg.. Dallas,
Tex. Telephone R-9230.
Theatres for sale. Selected listings In Oregon
tl Washington now available. Write for list
Theatre Exchange Co., Fine Arts Bldg., Portland.
Ore.
Family death sells central Missouri only theatre
ad town 1,200. Building, nice apartment.
equipment. $11,000 down. Leak. 3422 Kinmore.
Dallas. Also northern Missouri highly profitable
family theatre, fine college town. $12. .Mill .Inun
Near Enid, Okla., rich oil-wheat center. 1.300.
Brick building, good equipment $8,500 down.
Leak, 3122 Kinmore. Dallas Also near Tulsa.
Includes building, tile apartments. Nice. $12,000
Northwest Iowa, rich town 1.400. Building included.
$11,500 down. Leak, 1109 Orchardlane.
Des Moines. ALSO complete amusement combination,
Including 4(11) seal theatre Ileal opportunity.
$26,000 down.
North Texas progressive town 11. nun Modern
uliling included Photographs. $15.1111(1 down
ii . k Kinmore. Dallas.
Small circuit; three theatres. Business good.
Must, sell doc to ill health. Possession Immediately.
Boxoffice. A-3268.
Theatre, grossed nearly $4,000 in seven mot
_j0 seats. Inexperience forces sale. $5,
Rent $20. Near Springfield, Mo. Boxof
A-32C4.
Theatre For Sale: Near Decatur, 111. 250 seats,
everything in good shape. $17,000 cash, building
included. Reason, buying larger. Dlller Theatre,
Lovington, 111.
For Sale: Family theatre rich wheat area.
Concrete building, four-room apartment: going
dress shop: ideal Family operation. Must sell
immediately. Mode Theatre, Cottonwood. Idaho.
Theatres For Sale: For choice selection of
Northwest Theatres, write Irv Bowron, mgr., Thcairc
Sales Division. John L. Gray. Realtor. 4616
S. E. Hawthorne Blvd . Portland 15. Oregon.
-riatKi. Heavy dairy-broiler production Rich
,rm area. Market town 2.000. Unusually nice
leatre. building included. $31,000. $20,000
iwn. Arthur Leak. 3422 Kinmore. Dallas
Theatre. Northern lllii
pel it t, a, New ten-yeai
fill'.l Securities Bldg . D
Plaza
Theatre.
He and tuccc
teats. Good eqi
National
Bat
CUflflMG H0US£
4,250 No i
S.ncleiile
Theatre. Oklahoma count!
One of the most beautiful
800 seats. Finest equipmet
ne-s forces quick sale. $40,000 cash down.
Original investment back in year and half. Claude
Crockett. 1505 Flrsl National Rank, Hall. is, Texas
Modern. Less than till
full time operation, tit [
trade. $13,000 handles
ment, good building Boi
torn
fills
Modern. Simplex Neai beautiful southwestern
eiiv \i, compel n ion Progressive, growing town.
$20,000 handles, (rtth I ding Boiofl , A-3288,
Midwest Illinois theatre. Population 1,850.
PS .eat. Sopei Simplex 'spiipmellt Dissolving
nine,. Iiiii s.i. I ilnun. Gem Thealre. Odin. 111.
For Sale: 800 Seal theatre. Simplex machines.
New R C \ wund, town 1,500, g I base, centra)
Missouri Itoxoll \ 3283.
For Sale: :i."n seal theatre.
Hiihiing, good condition, central Ml ouri Box
A 3289
For Sale: Glen Theatri
AMPICO Tie
i
theatres
must I
i-t Texas town h
..id
Building
S'i :,on Should pay for self
n Jf cash Will i
i
Mo. 761
ii ro In- appreciated
Rich western Kansas Inwn. Onl.
est competitor IS miles First run
I
SI, Kali. a-
These
Near Fayetteville. Arkansas. Near Ozark won-
5903 Wood
remodel, d II,,- room hum. included if ile-lred
POPCORN MACHINES
ruilt Popcorn Machines for sale. Fully guaranteed.
Price trom $150 Consolidated Confections.
1314 8. Wabash, Chicago 6, 111.
popcorn
Ines. Silver Stars, Super Stars, Corn Crttis.
machines taken In trade. Blevlns Popcorn
Nashville, Tenn.
rch. Mauley. Crcturs. Advance, all electric
trench fry types. 50 Hollywood type, theatre
,1 electric poppers from $250. Karmelkorn
menl. 120 S. Ilalsted, Chicago 6. 111.
Rebuilt popcorn machines, half price. Write
for list. Drive-In poppers, bargain. Poppers Supply.
Box 838. Atlanta, Oa,
For Sale:
Super Star model W C
Issippl St., Fliivdada. Tex
Reagan, 212 W.
Quitting, must sell. $800 Mauley popcorn maline,
6 months old. $400 Snow Cone machine,
w lasl summer $23,5 popcorn auto vendor. All
nee $000 or make offer. Ralph Davis. Shelley.
POPCORN SUPPLIES
Home of "Rush Hour" popcorn and popcorn
supplies. Send for price list. I'moly Seed A
Grain Co.. 620 N. 2nd St.. St. Louis 2, Me.
Established 1874.
Bee Hive for '48 Is the best i
only gives yon best popcorn but
on all seasoning, bags, boxes, et
corn Co.. Nashville, Tenn.
Attractively printed popcorn e.irlmi: fur
10c size. $6 M: 25c size. $17.50 M. I
Knntney. 609 N. Ashland. Green Bay, Wis.
Sno-Flake white hulless popcorn. Give your customers
the best. Write us for your sample and
quotations. Sno-Wlte Popcorn Co., Montlcello, la.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Investigate Ibis. fixeluslve Chicago neighborhood.
Selling lot 200x125 ft. Included are complete
plans for recreation center (bowling alleys,
theatre, etc.) Owner. Tony Sheftlc, 14501 Slier
BUSINESS STIMULATORS
Comic books again available as premiums, giveaways
at your kiddy shows Large variety latest
48-page newsstand editions Comics Premium Co..
412B Greenwich St.. New York City.
Bingo with more action. $2.75 thousand cards
Also other games. Novelty Games Co. 1434 Bedford
Ave. Brooklyn. N. Y.
Only legal game for theatres Legal In
late Bigge t business booster sipee Bank Nh
Listen to Win" copyright 1947 by L.T.W.
•Vrite today for Information. S.
Iglit, fur vuur town now. Listen to Win Co .
(36, Cambridge, Ohio
Bingo rile-cut cards. 75 or 100 nnmhe
Screen dial $20. Premium Prod..
M.
4 4th St., New York 18. N. Y.
Comic books obtainable from world'
and oldest thealre distributor. Best t
latest Issues In stock. Price 3c each
ROM, 334 W. 44th St .. New York City.
SIGNS
Easy Way to Paint Signs. Use letter patterns
Avoid sloppy work and wasted time. No experience
needed for expert work. Write for free samples.
John Rahn. B-1329. Central Ave.. Chicago
si.
ra.
THEATRE TICKETS
Prompt service. Sprclal printed roll tickets
100.000. $23.95; 10.000, $6 85; 2.000. $4.45.
Each change In admission price, Including change
in color. $3.00 extra. Double numbering extra.
Shipping charges paid to 500 miles. Cash with
order. Kansas City Ticket Co.. Dept. 9. 181»
Central. Kansas City. Mo
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ON PAGE 42

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