Modern

TOTAL NET PAID CIRCULATION EXCEEDS 23,000
Modern
Theatre
DRIVE-IN
Presents
OPERATION

LEO'S IN STITCHES
OVER CLARK GABLE's
NEW PICTURE!
is pi
Every Preview was so uproarious that we unhesitatingly
say it is Gable's biggest audience sensation
since "It Happened One Night." (And Loretta was
never betta!)
America is hungry for a riotous comedy,
preferably a romantic one. This has everything!
•bx
»me

REMEMBER
FHIS
PROPHECY!
Ne predict that
ts ROARING
iVorld Premiere
engagement
]t Loew's State
vhich has just
>egun will start
1 box-office
:areer to top
ihe biggest
:omedies of
ilm history 1
'h.
KEY TO THE CITY
w,TH
MARILYN MAXWELL- FRANK MORGAN
JAMES GLEASON • LEWIS STONE • RAYMOND WALBURN
Screen Play by ROBERT RILEY CRUTCHER • Based on a Story by ALBERT BEICH
Directed by GEORGE SIDNEY • Produced by Z.WAYNE GRIFFIN
A METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURE
Help AX THE TAX!
THAILEH! PROTEST CARDS
IN LOBBYl
LETS FIGHTI

^%CmMEHl
V^^nq ma
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FEBRUARY 13
ALBANY
Worner Screening
Room
79 N. Peorl SI. • 12:30 P.M.
ATLANTA
20th Century-Fox Screening Room
197 Walton St. N.W. • 2t30 P.M.
BOSTON
RKG Screening Room
122 Arlington SI. • 2:30 P.M.
BUFFALO
Poromount Screening Room
W Franklin St. • 2:00 P.M.
CHARLOTTE
20th Century-Fox Screening Room
asr*<
-SS^.?5
rHom
URM/Cfl4fl
DIRECTED BY
IWICH/IEL
mm
PRODUCED BY
JERRY
W/\LD
SCREEN PLAY BY CARL FOREMAN AND EDMUND H. NORTH
FROM THE NOVEL BY DOROTHY BAKER • MUSICAL DIRECTION BY RAY HEINDORF
'(--f -t
^ A., J
308 S. Church St. • 2:00 P.M.
CHICAGO
Worner Screening
Room
1307 So. Wobosh Ave. • 1:30 P.MJ
CINCINNATI
RKG Polace Th. Screening Room
Poloce Th. BIdg. E. 6th
CLEVELAND
Warner Screening
2300 Payne Ave.
DALLAS
Room
• 8:00 P.M.
• 8:30 P.M.
20th Century-Fox Screening Room
1803 Wood St. • 2:00 P.M.
DENVER
Poromount Screening Room
2100 Stout St. • 2:00 P.M.
DES MOINES
PoramounI Screening Room
1125 High St. • 12:45 P.M.
DETROIT
Film
Exchange Building
2310 Casi Ave.
• 2:00 P.M.
INDIANAPOLIS
Universal Screening Room
517 No. Illinois St. • TOO P.M.
JACKSONVILLE
Florida Theatre BIdg. Sc. Rm.
128 E. Forsyth St. • 2:30 P.M.
KANSAS CITY
20th Century-Fox Screening
Room
1720 Wyandotte St. • 1;30 P.M.
LOS ANGELES
Room
Warner Screening
2025 S. Vermont Ave. • 2:00 P.M.
MEMPHIS
20th Cenlury-Fox Screening Room
151 Vance Ave. • 2:00 P.M.
MILWAUKEE
Warner Theotrc Screening Room
212 W, Wisconsin Ave. • 2:00 P.I
MINNEAPOLIS
Warner Screening Room
1000 Currie Ave. • 2 00 P.M.
NEW HAVEN
Warner Theotre Projection Room
70 College SI. • 200 P.M.
NEW ORLEANS
20th Century-Fox Screening Room
200 S. Liberty St. • 8:00 P.M.
NEW YORK
Home Office
321 W. 44lh St. 2:30 P.M.
OKLAHOMA
20lh Centucy-Fo« Screening Room
10 North lee St. • 1:30 P.M.
OMAHA
20lh Century-Fox Screening Room
1502 Dovenport St. • 1:00 P.M.
PHILADELPHIA
Warner Screening Roon
230 No. 13th SI, • 2:30 PM.
PITTSBURGH
20lh Century-Foi Screening Room
1715 Blvd. of Allies • 1 30 P.M.
PORTLAND
Jewel Box Screening Ro
1947 N.W Kearney St. • 2:00 P.M.
|
SALT LAKE
20th Century-Fox Screening Room
216 EosI Isl Soulh • 2 00 P.M.
SAN FRANCISCO
Republic PicI, Screening Room
221 Golden Cole Ave. 1:30 P.M.
SEATTLE
Jewel Box Screening Room
2318 Second Ave. 1030 A.M.
ST.
LOUIS
Srenco Screening
Room
3143 Olive SI. 1:00 P.M.
WASHINGTON
Worner Theatre Building
I3thS£Sls. H.W.
• 10:30 A.M.
:AT H,-,VE YOU DONE
TODAY TO HELP KILL
THE FEDERAL MOVIE TAX?

THE NATIONAL FILM WEEKLY
POBLISHED IN
NINE SECTIONAL EDITIONS
BEN SHLYEN
Editor-in-Chief and Publisher
lAMES M. lERAULD Editor
NATHAN COHEN Executive Editor
JESSE SHLYEN Managing Editor
IVAN SPEAR..._ Western Editor
KENNETH HUDNALL..Equipment Editor
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Published Every Saturday by
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Telephone Columbus 5-6370. Cable address:
"BOXOFFICE, New York.-
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Telephone DUnkirk S-2286.
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Publication Offices: 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City
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Managing Editor; Morris Schlozman, Business Manager.
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and Service. Telephone CHestnut 7777-78.
Other Publications; BOXOFFICE BAROMETER, published
in November as a section of BOXOFFICE;
THE MODERN THEATRE, published monthly as a
seclion of BOXOFFICE.
ALBANY—21-23 Walter Ave., M. Berrigan
ATLANTA— 163 Walton, N. W., P. H. Savin
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BOSTON—Frances W. Harding, Ub. 2-9305.
CHARLOTTE—216 W. 4th, Pauline Griffith.
CINClNNATI-4029 Reading Rd., Lillian Lazarus
CLEVELAND—Elsie Loeb, Fairmount 0046.
DENVER-1645 Lafayette, Jack Rose, TA 6517.
DES MOINES—Register & Tribune Bldg., Russ Schoch
DETROIT-1009 Fox Theatre Bldg., H. F. Reves
Telephones: WOodward 2-1100; Night, UN-4-0219
HARTFORD- 109 Westborne, Allen Widem
HARRISBURG, PA —Mechanicsburg, Lois Fegan
INDIANAPOLIS—Rt. 8, Box 770, Howard M Rudeaux
MIAMI— 66 S. Hibiscus Island, Mrs. Manton E Harwood,
2952 Merrick Rd., Elizabeth Sudlow
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MILWAUKEE—3057 No. Murray Ave., John E Hubel
WO 2-0457.
MINNEAPOLIS—29 Washington Ave. So Les Rees
NEW HAVEN—42 Church St., Gertrude Lander
NEWARK, N. J.—207 Sumner, Sara Carleton
NEW ORLEANS—Alberta Schindler, 218 So. Uberty
OKLAHOMA CITY—216 Terminal Bldg.,
Polly Trindle
OMAHA—Omaha World-Herald Bldg., Lou Gerdes
PHILADELPHIA—5363 Berks St., Norman Shigon
PlTTSBURGH-86 Van Braam St., R. F. Klingensm.th
PORTLAND, ORE.—Editorial: Edward Cogan Norlonia
Hotel, Ilth and Stark. Advertising: Mel Hickman,
907 Terminal Sales Bldg., ATwater 4107
PROVIDENCE—310 Howard Bldg., G. Fred Aiken,
ST. LOUIS—5149 Rosa, David Barrett, FL-3727
SALT LAKE CITY-Deseret News, Howard Pearson
SAN ANT0N10-2I1 Cadwalder St., L. J. B. Ketner'
SAN FRANCISCO—Editorial: Gail Lipman 25 Tayior
^"'^'2- Advertising:
5',;r'^'''^^'?y
Jerry Nowell, 1003
T.W.A. Bldg., 240 Stockton St., YUkon 6-2522.
SEATTLE-923 N. 84th St., WiUard Elsey
TOLEDO— 4330 Willys Pkwy., Anna Kline, LA 7176.
IN CANADA
CALGARY—The Albertan, Wm. Campbell
MONTREAL— 4330 Wilson Ave., N. D. G Roy Carmichael.
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
'^'"""^
X;S,\S2t^-5^^
Highway, Alec Merriman
WINNIPEG—The Tribune, Ben Lepkin.
Member Audit Bitreau of CiRctrLAiioNS
NOW OR NEVER
•y\ri' T NO time since the war has the motion picture
industry been engaged in such an allout effort as that for
which it is being mobilized to bring about repeal of the federal
admission tax. Exhibitors, distributors, producers, studio personnel
and all employes connected with the business are being
summoned into action, with the knowledge that failure in
this battle means more than just the loss that would here be
encountered. It goes beyond—to the fight that must be waged
against state and municipal levies on admissions that impend
and against other discriminatory taxation and legislation which
are constant threats.
There is no assurance that, if the industry is unsuccessful
in removing the restraint that has been placed upon it by the
federal tax, state and local governments will refrain from making
similar imposts. Proof of this lies in the fact that several
such attempts have been made and that a number of such levies
already exist, piled on top of the federal tax. Anyone who
feels that he might as well go on paying the federal government,
for otherwise he'll just be trcmsferring payment to state
or local coffers, needs to be forewarned that such an attitude
can result in a double, or triple, impost—federal, state cmd
municipal!
However, if the taxmakers are given a taste of the real
"hell" this industry can stir up in its federal tax fight, the
chances for defeating the local measures—when and IF they
come up—are very much bettered. If the industry proves in
this "test" of its strength—for that is what it amounts to—that
it wields great power and influence with the public, it will put,
not only taxmakers cmd legislators, but many other of its adversaries
back on their heels.
The taxation and legislation committee of the Council of
Motion Picture Organizations has been hard at work. It has
provided material aids as well as ideas for each exhibitor to
bring into local play. And, as Abrcmi F. Myers, chairmcm of
the committee, so well told the gathering of theatre advertising
executives at the 20th Century-Fox merchandising conference,
all of the ingenuity, all of the enterprise, all of the vigor cmd
excitement of showmanship must be rallied to this cause in marshaling
public opinion against the taxing of theatre admissions.
Again, doing the job right and doing it thoroughly
NOW, will redound to the industry's benefit—cmd to the public's—for
a long time to come.
It has been wisely advocated that the public be clearly informed
that the saving of the admission tax will be passed on
to them. Not only vrill this be a factor in enlisting the enthusiastic
support of theatre patrons in this campaign, but it should
also make an impression on congressmen.
Further, the aid of local businessmen ccm be obtained
by pointing out that the admission tax is invasive of their interests;
that it cuts into the spending money of their customers.
In the smaller towns, especially, every merchcmt knows the
trade value of the motion picture theatre. It should not be
Entered as Second Class matter at Post Office, Kansas City, Mo
Sectional Edition, $3.00 per year; National Edition, $7.50
Vol'. 56 No. 14
FEBRUARY 4, 1950

J-kt lUnlu ei lluyylclloH, lylclu.xe

WARTIME TAX REPEAL IS URGED
BY 51 INDUSTRIAL EXECUTIVES
Johnston and Distributor
Heads Join in Signing
Washington Post Ad
NEW YORK—The coordinated national
campaign of many industries for repeal of
the wartime excise taxes reached a new high
during the week with a full-page newspaper
advertisement which, placed in the Washington
Post, could not fail to be read by Congress
and the administration. This industry
was represented prominently among the
signers of the National Committee for the
Repeal of Wartime Excise Taxes sponsoring
the advertisement. They were Eric Johnston,
president of the Motion Picture Ass'n of
America; Leonard H. Goldenson, president,
United Paramount Theatres; Nicholas M.
Schenck, president, Loew's, Inc.; Spyros P.
Skouras, president, 20th Century-Fox, and
Harry M. Warner, president, Warner Bros.
Johnston is a vice-chairman of the committee.
REOPENS A CAMPAIGN
The advertisement reopened a newspaper
advertising campaign begun last fall which
included a full-page ad in the Washington
Post and New York Times published "in the
interest of American business and labor" by
a large number of industrial organizations,
including MPAA and TOA. It followed a
meeting of retail organizations at the Waldorf-Astoria
hotel, in which this industry participated,
called by the American Retail
Federation. Individual industries then followed
with similar ads in their trade publications.
HARRY S. TRIMAN
PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON, D.C
IF YOU WANT
TO GO TO
THE MOVIES
MORE OFTEN, WRITE TODAY!
Why should there be any tax on movies?
l( you and all the fans in America ACT
NOW you'll see ACTION in Washington.
Write the President NOW!
Si Scadler, advertising manager of
MGM, has produced an ad which is to be
used in full-page size in all fan magazines
as part of the campaign against
the admission tax.
TAX COLLECTOR
Every theatre cashier also works for
Uncle Sam, so Kay Bickell, cashier at
Loew's State, New York, points up the
fact by wearing a cap in line with
Loew's suggestion to all exhibitors that
they have their cashiers do likewise, to
emphasize the campaign for admissions
tax repeal.
The latest ad, which probably will be repeated
in more newspapers, was titled "A
Petition to the Congress of the United States
from 51 executives in American industry." It
read:
"The wartime excise taxes were passed as
wartime controls in 1941. 1942, 1943. They
served their purpose well. But the war is
over. It has been over for more than four
years. Everyone agrees today that wartime
excise taxes are unfair in peacetime. They
are discriminatory. They penalize selected
industries, the men and women who work in
them, the pubUc which needs and buys their
products. They have created serious unemployment
in certain industries and communities.
They prevent fair and free competition.
"Everyone agrees with this statement of the
President in his tax message: 'There is need
to reduce taxes which burden consumption
and handicap particular businesses . . . Some
(excise taxes) are depressing certain lines of
business. Some burden consumption and fall
with particular weight on low income groups.
Still others add to the cost of Uving by increasing
business costs.' And—this statement
is just and statesmanlike.
"We beUeve that the same sound reasoning
applies not only to the seven industries for
which the President recommended some relief,
but applies with equal force and equal
justice to all of the wartime excise tax
levies of 1941, 1942, 1943 (not including tobacco,
gasoline and alcoholic beverages which
present problems of their own) on all of the
27 industries affected.
"These excise taxes were justified during
wartime. They are unjust and discriminatory
during peacetime. To repeal some of them
now and allow others to remain is only to
alter the shape of the discrimination.
"We support the President in his concern
for a balanced budget and debt reduction at
high employment, and we are convinced, after
careful study, that wartime excise taxes are
today a dangerous obstacle to the achievement
of these goals. This is a matter of
simple arithmetic.
"1. How much revenue would the federal
government lose if the wartime excise
taxes of 1941. 1942, 1943 (excluding those
on tobacco, gasoline and alcoholic beverages)
were entirely repealed? The net
loss will not exceed $1,500,000,000; it may
well be less.
"2. Can the federal government safely
accept such a reduction of revenue? The
budget now includes $1,920,000,000 to make
loans and purchase certain assets, many
of which are already guaranteed by government
agencies. Guaranteed mortgages
and loans are a major part of this item.
This $1,920,000,000 is not an expense; it
is a recoverable asset. (See page U17 of
the federal budget just published.)
"3. This sum alone is greater than the
maximum net loss of all wartime excise
taxes of 1941, 1942, 1943 (excluding the
three exceptions mentioned above.)
CITE CONSUMER PROTEST
"American consumers have already registered
their protest against these wartime
levies. They have done so by drastically cutting
their spending in most of the 27 industries
affected. They are waiting for their
Congress to act. Every passing week adds to
the cutback in buying, in production, in unemployment.
Every passing week adds to the
crisis.
"This committee has been organized for
the sole purpose of presenting a just petition
for the redress of a serious grievance. We
ask justice for the public which pays these
unfair taxes. Justice for those of our employes
who have been taxed onto the relief
rolls through no fault of their own. Justice
A Petition to
The Congress of
the United States
from SI Executives in American Industry
Page Advertisement in Washington Post.
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950 J.

- Co.;
—
for communities disrupted by unemployment.
And justice for the men and women who have
invested in our companies. In this spirit, we
—active heads and executives of our businesses,
Democrats and RepubUcans alike
solemnly exercise the American right of petition.
We appeal to the conscience and the
reason of Congress.
"Repeal the wartime excise taxes of 1941,
1942, 1943 (less the three exceptions).
"Repeal these taxes completely.
"Repeal these taxes now."
OTHER EXECUTIVES ARE LISTED
Other executives signing the ad were:
Frank McConnell Mayfield, president, Scruggs-
Vandervoort-Bamey Co.; Arde Bulova, chairman oi
the board, Bulova Watch Co.; Louis Rulhenburg.
chairman of the board, Serve!, Inc.; H. Leigh Whitelaw,
managing director. Gas Appliance Mfg. Ass'n;
lames J, Newman, vice-president, B. F. Goodrich
I. Carlton Bagnall sr., executive vice-president,
Swank, Inc.; Lester Baker, treasurer. Dayton Rubber
Co.; Robert F. Bensinger, president, Brunswick-
Balke-CoUender Co.; John M. Biggins, vice-president
and treasurer, Elgin National Watch Co.; H. C.
Blakeslee, vice-president and general manager, Cary
Corp.; Harold Bozell, president, General Telephone
Co.; Henry P. Bristol, president, Bristol-Myers Co.;
Thomas A. Buckley, president, Buxton Co.
Also, I H. Carmichael, president, Capitol Airlines;
John S. Coleman, president. Burroughs Adding Machine
Co.; John CoUyer, president, B. F. Goodrich
Co.; Robert Driscoll, vice-president, Greyhound- Corp.;
Samuel B. Edison, vice-president, Edison Bros. Stores;
Albert J, Feldman, A. Hollander & Son; Marion B.
Folsom, treasurer, Edstman Kodak Co.; John A. Fry,
president, Detroit-Michigan Stove Co.; Julius Green,
president. Julius Green Fur Co. C- R. Harding, president,
Pullman Co.; Lyle C. Ha -vey, president, Affiliated
Gas Equipment Corp.; J. V. Heffernan, vicepresident,
Radio Corp. of Ame
Heyman,
president, Oscar Heyman & Bros.; Stanley H. Hobson,
president, George D. Roper Corp.; R. J. Irish,
executive administrator, A. O. Smith Corp.; Stanley
Klein, president, Mendel-Drucker, Inc.
Also, R. A. Lum.pkin, president, Illinois Consolidated
Telephone Co.; L. R. Mendelson, president,
Kotstream Heater Co.; John H. Moore, president, John
Hudson Moore, Inc.; Dan J. O'Brien, president, Commodore
Perry hotel, Toledo; George F. Parton, president.
Standard Safe Deposit Co.; Brock Pemberton,
president. League of New York Theatres; Wdrren
Lee Pierson, chairman of the board, Transcontinental

—
CENSORSHIP THREATS RISE
AS LEGISLATURES CONVENE
First New Bills Also Seek
To Regulate Drive-Ins,
Enact New Taxes
WASHINGTON—On both state and local
legislative fronts, exhibitors during January
fought censorship threats, taxation,
and drive-in theatre regulations.
Censorship bills were in the limelight in
Massachusetts, New York and Kentucky,
but there was no strong campaign to stimulate
their enactment. One municipality
Irwin, Pa., passed an amusement tax and a
movement was under way in Kentucky to
vote in a tax on drive-in theatres.
NEW YORK GETS DRIVE-IN BILL
Most drastic of the drive-in regulatory proposals
was offered in the New York state
legislature. An assemblyman introduced an
act which would prohibit drive-ins in cities
over 250,000 population on the theory that
outdoor theatres allegedly create traffic hazards
and contribute to juvenile delinquency.
Meanwhile, Herman Levy, general counsel
for Theatre Owners of America, told exhibitors
to take their fight against oppressive
state and local taxes to the courts. He told
TOA members, in a bulletin issued this week,
that the local or state government body must
prove it has the power to impose the tax and
further that the tax is not arbitrary, confiscatory,
unreasonable or discriminatory.
Levy based his finding on the outcome of
a 10 per cent gross admissions tax imposed
by the city of St. Petersburg, Fla., in addition
to the regular theatre license tax. Exhibitors
won their case in the local trial court
on the ground of unconstitutionality, and got
an injunction on collections. The state supreme
court upheld the ruling, finding that
even if taxing powers had existed, which it
denied, nevertheless "the amount imposed is
unreasonable, confiscatory and void."
The court was impressed by the complaint
that, based on the previous year's gross receipts,
the exhibitors would be required to
pay a tax of approximately $94,000, or an increase
of about 12,000 per cent. It was also
said that the sum would be in excess of the
net income of at least five of the theatre
plaintiffs.
CITE GEORGIA CASE
Levy also referred to the recent case of
Publlx-Lucas against the city of Brunswick,
Ga., in which the state supreme court ruled
that a city "occupation tax" In fact was a
second license tax. The court said the industry
has come of age and should not be
subject to excessive regulation, and that no
attempts should be made to tax it on the
basis of itinerant shows over which the municipality
has "broad regulatory power."
In Sparta, 111., voters killed a 122-year-old
ban on Sunday amusements In a special election.
The victory for Sunday performances
was pretty much the result of a campaign by
the younger element and newcomers to the
community. As a result of the ballot, C. H.
Wells, manager of the Grand Theatre, said a
new and larger theatre will be built soon for
the town.
Januarys Legislative Developments
CENSORSHIP
Hearings were held in Boston on two
state censorship bills, to which exhibitor
associations objected. One of the bills
provides for a censorship commission to
be composed of the commissioner of public
safety, the commissioner of police, a
priest, a rabbi and a minister to pass on
all motion pictures as well as comic books
and other publications offered to minors.
The second bill provides for a state board
of five supervisors with a paid chairman
at $5,000 a year. This board would have
the power to ban a motion picture if a
group of five or more citizens makes a
complaint against the morals of a film
and the charge is upheld.
The Kentucky legislature receives a bill
to establish state censorship similar to
legislation unsuccessfully submitted at
the 1948 session.
Georgia's legislature received a bill to
create a state censorship board with authority
to review every feature, short and
stage play offered in the state. The bill
proposes a three-man board to be named
by the governor—a chairman at $7,500 a
year and two directors to be paid so much
for each movie reviewed. The bill also
calls for a reviewing fee for both films
and stage shows as well as a license fee
to show.
DRIVE-IN THEATRES
A bill taxing drive-in theatres on the
NCA Meeting Archbishop
On Threat of Boycott
MINNEAPOLIS—North Central AUied has
appointed S. D. Kane, George Granstrom and
Don Riley, all Catholics, to meet with Archbishop
John Gregory Murray regarding a
directive issued by him which in effect calls
diocese Catholics to boycott theatres showing
other than films classified as A pictures
by the Legion of Decency.
Kane, who is executive director of North
Central Allied, declares that a serious situation
has been created by an unusually large
loss of Catholic patronage. It is impossible
to keep theatres open without showing some
films which have been classified as B pictures
by the Legion of Decency. In other
dioceses, Kane asserts, the ban applies to
films rather than theatres. The archbishop
will be asked by theatres discriminated
against why stores selling objectionable literature
are not boycotted.
At a special meeting called by North Central
Allied. Twin city independent exhibitors
discussed plans to help boxoffice grosses by
a campaign to improve public relations. Theatre
owners will meet shortly to determine
what action, if any, should be taken regarding
Will Jones, Tribune columnist and film
commentator, whose caustic comments on
films, including "Battleground," have been
hurting grosses in this area.
basis of 20 cents per car annually was introduced
in the Kentucky legislature.
Theatres now pay on the basis of 20 cents
a seat. At present drive-ins pay only a
state 3 per cent amusement tax.
Judge Harry M. Fisher of circuit court
in Chicago held invalid an ordinance
which banned outdoor theatres within the
city limits. The court held that while the
city had the power to zone business out
of certain areas, it could not enact a
blanket ordinance to ban a type of business
from the city.
In New York, the state legislature this
week received a bill which would prohibit
the construction of drive-ln theatres within
the city limits of cities with a population
of 250,000 or more.
TAXATION
In Irwin, Pa., the city council approved
a 10 per cent tax on admissions to finance
mandatory salary increases for school
employes.
16MM FILMS
The city council held that laws covering
fire hazards and sanitary regulations
are adequate to prevent showing of 16mm
motion pictures in dangerous buildings.
The decision was reached as a result of an
effort by union projectionists backed by
many exhibitors to restrict showings of
16mm films in bars, hotels and other
places not regulation theatres.
Ellis Arnall Wants to Bring
Industry Story to Capital
NEW YORK—To prevent "foreign strangulation"
of American films, Ellis Arnall, SIMPP
president, will invite all segments of the industry,
including labor, to arrange meetings
with President Truman, the secretary of
state and the secretary of commerce and tell
them about the "mortal blows being directed"
against American product.
Arnall said the situation is worsening rapidly
throughout the world, with one coimtry
after another going in for permits, licenses,
quotas and monetary regulations, and that
the independent producers are the hardest
hit. He wired Eric Johnston, MPAA president,
his invitation after a meeting of the
SIMPP distribution committee Thursday (2)
which approved the action.
Drive Giving Exhibitors
Chance to Meet Patrons
WASHINGTON—A. F. Myers, who is heading
the Industry's tax reduction drive, said
Friday (3) the campaign is now countrywide
and that exhibitors are reaping " a substantial
extra dividend" in the new comradeship
with their customers. Exhibitors would do
well, he said, if they remained in their lobbies
while the petitions are being signed "and
made friends with their customers."
10 BOXOFFICE :: February 4. 1950

Goldwyn Is No Final
Authority: Pinanski
NEW YORK—Samuel Pinanski, president
of the Theatre Owners of America, replying
ward Small Productions for the reissue rights
to seven features.
"Brewster's Millions," starring Dennis
O'Keefe and June Havoc, will be reissued
May 1, 1950. The deal covers 35min rights in
the U.S. and Canada and 16mm rights for the
entire world. The other six features are for
worldwide 16mm rights only. They are: "I
Cover the Waterfront," "Red Salute," "Palooka,"
"Transatlantic Merry-Go-Round,"
"Let 'Em Have It" and "The Melody Lingers
On."
Jacques Kopfstein. executive vice-president
of Astor, has sold the United Kingdom rights
to all seven features to Ariston Films, Ltd.,
London.
MR. SKOURAS SPEAKS OUT FOR HONEST ADVERTISING
20th -Fox Hikes Output;
36 to 40 Features in '5/
NEW YORK—More releases and a $6,000,-
000 studio enlargement program to lift the
1951 output to a total running between 36
and 40 features at a cost of $60,000,000 are
planned by 20th Century-Fox, according to
Spyros P. Skouras, president.
The 1950 schedule calls for between 30
and 36 top features at an estimated cost of
about $55,000,000.
Skouras made this announcement Friday
(27) on the third and closing day of the
merchandising conference arranged by
Charles Einfeld, vice-president in charge of
advertising, publicity and exploitation. It was
one of the highlights of the gathering which
was attended by 75 publicity and advertising
men and women and theatre executives from
to a charge of lax exhibitor promotion by
Samuel Goldwyn, said the producer is "hardly
justified in constituting himself the final
authority and critic on all phases of our
business." He also criticized the timing of
Goldwyn's attack as coming at a time when
good public relations are badly needed. He
said that, even if "soundly grounded," it is
a disservice to the industry "which has provided
theatres in which to play his product,
resulting in a handsome livelihood for him."
"The charge that exhibitors are remiss in
not properly promoting feature pictures discloses
an amazing lack of an intimate knowledge
of existing conditions in the industry,"
Pinanski said. "For nearly three years, exhibitors
have individually and collectively
gone all out to sell the public on the excellence
of motion pictures.
"TOA alone has spent many thousands of
dollars selling the motion picture as an in-
all parts of the country.
stitution and individual pictures because of
their individual quality. This effort has been
aimed at correcting many public impressions
FOR FRANKNESS AND HONESTY
In addition, Skouras declared emphatically
attributable not to exhibitors but to producers.
that his company Intends to go in for frank-
Generally, Hollywood producers have ness and honesty in the advertising of all
manifested an appreciation of the efforts of pictures.
exhibitors.
"I am a fervent believer in good advertising
"Goldwyn is hardly justified in constituting
for the benefit of our exhibitors
himself the final authority and critic through the tradepress," he said. "Charlie
on all phases of our business. In the present Einfeld's junior geniuses have created for
instance, the specific object of his ire seems their trade ads a little man with whom the
to be a circuit on the west coast (Fox West industry is now familiar. This little man
Coast Theatres) which has not seen fit apparently
greets the trade almost every day in some
to give him terms and conditions he new antic. He is a fine ambassador for us
requests in his negotiations with that circuit
in improving our relations with our cus-
for the sale of his product.
tomers.
"It is regrettable that Goldwyn should use "Now, I want to announce that I am offering
a prize to the man or woman in this
a dispute over business terms with one exhibitor
as a basis for a broadside attack on room who finds the best name for this little
exhibitors as a whole. The existence of such man. This prize may be a penny or a nickel
controversies tend to make his complaints or something else, but I am going to ask
somewhat less than objective."
you to appoint a committee to supervise this
Pinanski said exhibitors will weigh the contest. Meanwhile, let this nameless little
charges very carefully.
character, whose paternity is in doubt, be a
"It may appear to them as singular, however,"
cheerful reminder to you that 20th Centuryonly
he said, "that a producer responsible Fox is doing its utmost to stand pre-eminent
for an occasional picture should find by virtue of its product, its personnel in
grounds for acute discontent with his customers,
while those producers who provide enlightened policies in every one of its de-
home office and studio, and its up-to-date
product in such quantity as to keep theatre
doors open all year round seem to be quite
satisfied with their customer relationship."
partments."
NO BOMBASTIC MATERIAL
At this point Skouras became more serious
Astor Gets Reissue Rights
and said: "It is my purpose that he will
also be a symbol of truthful advertising.
To Edward Small Films
"Just as we intend to treat each individual
picture as a new and fresh adventure
NEW YORK—R. M. Savini, president of
Astor Pictures, has closed a deal with Ed-
in exploitation, we propose to report the
content of this picture to the public for
exactly what it is.
"It is going to be a policy of 20th Century-Fox
to advertise a war picture as a
war picture, a social drama as a social drama,
and so on, and not to try to gild the lily.
"We are going to refrain from bombastic
material in our ads. No matter what magnificent
pictures are produced by Mr. Zanuck,
ON THE COVER: A scene at
the merchandising
conference of lop advertising directors
called by 20th Century-Fox with Spyros
Skouras, the company president, addressing
the participants on Fox plans for new product
and advertising.
1950 BUSINESS
WILL BE GOO0
FORTHdSE
WHO MAKE IT
SrVKOS SKOURAS
". . . It is going to be the policy of 20th
Century-Fox to advertise a war picture
as a war picture, a social drama as a
social drama, and so 07i, and not to try
to gild the lily."
or Mr. DeMille, or Mr. Schary, or anyone else,
they will not get the patronage they deserve,
if the theatregoer and the world is
not informed about them honestly and forthrightly."
Skouras also made a plea for full support
of the Council of Motion Picture Organizations.
"In this new organization," he said, "we
have brought together all elements and adjuncts
of our profession for the first time
and we have served notice that we will no
longer allow ourselves to be maligned or unjustly
ridiculed.
"Through COMPO we have served notice
that we intend to fight for our industry and
defend ourselves at every crossroads of this
country, at the door of every theatre, and
all the way to the halls of Congress.
"We have resolved that no longer shall
careless critics attack the fine citizens and
great artists who are in the majority in Hollywood;
we intend to resist those who sneer
at the very name of this community.
"We have a far-flung fighting program.
You, my friends, are the people who are
going to take the brunt of this fight, with
the backing of the home offices, the producers'
association, the exhibitors' organizations,
and. in an important overall way,
from COMPO.
"These groups will give you every constructive
assistance in demonstrating that the
motion picture industry has come of age
and will not fail the trust of free America.
We shall rally the large and devoted motion
picture audience to our side in defence
of the best medium of entertainment and
information."
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950
11

fOM IMcfidlfif
IVIUMM lUNDlfi/ijy
M
2L"'- M«V MERRILL
f^oyceLandis. Joyce MacKe
"zie-Leif
Directed by
EricKson
CUUDEBINYON
Screen Play Oy CUUOE BimoN Fram Ihe Book •The Oocto,
Produced by FRED KOHLMAR
'""fee
Faces'- Hy I
MOTHER DIDN'T TELL I
20th Century-Fox selected "Mother Didn't Tell Me" for a $7500, sho\
manship contest because the exploitation and promotional possibi
. . and are rea
ties are limited only by the ingenuity of the showman .
ily adaptable to all sorts of situations, large, small and in-betwee
Store Promotions and Tie-up Ads Your local departme
store, drug, 5&10, notions and specialty shops are literally a gold mli
for tie-ups keyed to the theme "Mother Didn't Tell Me I'd look better
Lipstick."
ubiicity and contests
:
First arrange special scree
_igs for womei^^l5^8!!BH^8BBPB^ffolumnists, family counsel©)
feature writers. The picture is loaded with substantial material for o
page articles on marital relations, etiquette, human relations, mother-i
law problems, etc.
The Inquiring Reporter stunt is a cinch with such questions
"Should a Mother tell her daughter Everything?" Newspaper contet
can be promoted along the lines of "Most Embarrassing Experience
under the heading "What I wish My Mother Had Told Me"

2iid
Ill
PRIZE
$350
3rd PRIZES?
or two week all -expenses paid vacation for two
at Walter Jacob's Vacation Wonderland, The
Lord Tarleton Hotel, Pike, New Hampshire
fSEM^h^
Open to any theatre that plays "Mother Didn't
Tell Me" between February 25 and May 4, 1950.
I
I
IN THE BVBNT OP A TIB, DUPUCATB PRIZES VflU BB AWARDED
ii
i
i
^^^^_^^^^_^^^^_^^^^^^_^^^^_^^_^^^^^_^ Organizational and School promotion: any types of women's organizations are deeply
* concerned with the problems posed by the picture. FTA, discussion, literary and child guidance groups
can be approached. Hire a local child psychologist to speak before all such groups as well as high school
and college assemblies on the subject "Mother Didn't Tell Me". Such a speech can be a real public
service on the part of the theatre and should not be commercialized beyond the title of the speech,
"Mother Didn't Tell Me."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Doctors and nurses speak
_ le course of the day. Arrange
special advanced showings for key doctors and nurses.
Thcv will create wonderful word-of-mouth for you.
treet Ballvho Hire four teen-age boys. Paint
a black eye on each and have them parade around
town carrying the sign "MOTHER DIDN'T TELL
ME". We guarantee this one will cause plenty of
mirthful comment. The title lends itself for sniping
and stencilling. It'll be picked up by the local teen-
I
i
MEET YOUR JUDGES!
Mrs. RHEBA SCHWARTZ
Exhibitor, Capilol I'healre, Dover, Delaware
MR. TED R. GAMBLE
Member of the Executive Committee of Theatre Otvners of America
Mr. trueman rembusch
President, Associated Theatre Otvners of Indiana, Inc.
SEE NE)iJ PAGE
FOR OFFICIAL
CONTEST RULES

350
100
. .
OFFICIAL
RULES
BMlidiTllWIli
SHOWMANSHIP CONTEST
Sponsored by Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corporation
CONTEST OPEN TO;
Any manager and/or advertising manager of a theatre in
the United States or Canada who opens or plays the
Twentieth Century-Fox feature picture MOTHER
DIDN'T TELL ME, starring Dorothy McGuire and William
Lundigan, during the period of February 24, 1950 to
May 7, 1950 inclusive. Judges of this contest and members
of their families are excluded.
ENTRY DATE:
All entries must be postmarked on or before Midnight May
21, 1950.
THE JUDGING:
Judging will be based upon the best and most productive
advertising, exploitation and publicity campaigns for
MOTHER DIDN'T TELL ME.
In judging winners, consideration will be given to the nature
of the run, the class of house, its location and business produced,
in order to permit equal competition between small
town theatres, neighborhood houses and downtown deluxe
theatres.
A total of 134 prizes totalling $7500 will be given to winning
contestants.
First Prize
Second Prize .
Third Prize
Fourth Prize
Next ten prizes .
Next twenty prizes
$500 U. S. Savings Bond
U. S. Savings Bond
250 U. S. Savings Bond
150 U. S. Savings Bond
U. S. Savings Bonds each
75 U. S. Savings Bonds each
Next fifty prizes 50 U. S. Savings Bonds each
, Next fifty prizes 25 U. S. Savings Bonds each
*-
.V
HOW TO ENTER:
(1) Submit a written summary of the advertising, exploitation
and publicity campaign you stage for your engagement
of MOTHER DIDN'T TELL ME, documented with newspaper
tear sheets, photos and any other specimens.
This summary may be in any form you elect, whether letter,
memo, scrapbook, folder, etc., and may be of any length or
dimension. However judging will be done solely on the basis
of the factors outlined in these Rules. Elaborateness of
campaign books or of presentations will have no bearing
whatsoever on the decision of the judges.
(2) This summary must in all instances include the following
specific information, in addition to an outline of the
campaign activities themselves:
a. size of theatre (seats)
b. population and type of community
c. run given MOTHER DIDN'T TELL ME
d. percentage or normal business .
e. receipt for engagement (optional)
(3) Send your summary by first class mail to:
"MOTHER DIDN'T TELL ME" CAMPAIGN
COMMITTEE
Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corp.
444 West 56th Street
New York 19, N. Y.
JUDGING COMMITTEE:
The committee of judges will select the best entries. Their
decision will be final and the winners will be notified by telephone
or telegraph. Entrants agree that all summaries submitted
in the contest are the property of Twentieth Century-
Fox Film Corporation and that the same and/or material or
ideas therein contained may be freely copied or otherwise
used by or through said corporation.
In case of a tie, duplicate prizes will be awarded. This contest
is subject to federal, state and local regulations.

.
CRITIC IN P. R. JOB
CHICAGO—Sam Lesner, film critic ol
the Chicago Daily News, is one critic who
believes in boosting motion pictures—and
he has undertaken a voluntary public relations
project for the industry with a weekly
forum on "What's Right With the Movies."
Lesner started his series of forums last
week by speaking to more than 250 persons
in Oak Park, a suburb. His talk demonstrated
that film patrons are eager to discuss
their motion picture entertainment
and a forum which was originally scheduled
for an hour lasted more than twice
that long. Exhibitors cooperated with Lesner
by making passes available to those
who attended.
The critic discussed the best pictures
playing currently in Chicago and made
recommendations for various types of filmgoers.
He urged patrons to be as choosy
in picking their motion pictures as they do
their clothes, so that the pictures they do
see will be more likely to please and entertain
them. He also stressed the importance
of care in selecting film for children, so
that the industry will be encouraged in
making pictures which will be of special
interest to the younger fans.
Lesner plans to conduct his series of
voluntary talks throughout the city. In the
accompanying photograph he is shown
second from the right handing out passes
at the Oak Park meeting.
Warners Sell Five Ohio
Theatres to Chakeres
SPRINGFIELD, OHIO—Warner Bros. Pictures,
Inc., has sold five theatres and a piece
of real estate here to the Springfield Theatre
Co., headed by Phil Chakeres. The theatres
are the Regent. State, Majestic. Fairbanks
and Ohio. The Regent and Ohio have been
operated under lease from Gus Sun, head of
the Gus Sun Booking Co., Inc.
The Springfield Theatre Co. was founded
22 years ago. Michael H. Chakeres is a director.
The transfer had been under discussion for
some time.
Oklahoma City Now Leads
In Ned Depinet Drive
NEW YORK—The RKO Oklahoma City
branch, managed by R. B. Williams, took
the lead at the end of the fourth week in
the 1950 Ned Depinet drive. Charlotte, managed
by R. F. Branon, dropped to second
place, and Denver, managed by J. C. Emerson,
finished third. Memphis, managed by
R. V. Reagin, was fourth, displacing Chicago,
managed by Sam Gorellck, which dropped to
fifth.
BOXOFHCE :
Expect Warner, 20th-Fox
To Sign Decrees Soon
NEW YORK—When the three-judge statutory
court hands down its decree in the
antitrust case there may be only one theatre-owning
defendant—Loew's, Inc.
Warner Bros, and 20th Century-Fox are
continuing negotiations for consent decrees,
with an agreement in sight for the former.
It is expected that a Warner decree will be
signed in late February or early March.
Some progress has been made in negotiations
for a 20th Century-Fox consent decree,
but it has not been officially admitted
that these negotiations have taken place. In
fact, on two occasions 20th-Fox spokesmen
have insisted they were not seeking an agreement
outside of court. Of late, however,
James P. Byrnes, former secretary of state
and former Supreme Court justice, has been
spending most of his time on the case as
one of the 20th-Fox counsel.
Spyros P. Skouras, 20th-Fox president,
confirmed that talks were in progress when
he announced early in the week that he had
postponed a Far East trip scheduled to start
in mid-February so that he could take part
in discussions of the company's theatre divorcement
problems.
Judge Augustus Hand indicated at the last
court hearing that he and his associates
were disposed to hand down a separate decision
for the three non-theatre owning defendants—Universal,
United Artists and Columbia.
Because this decree would be confined
largely to trade practices it is possible
that it may be completed first. Few
controversial points are involved.
Exhibitors in a Protest
Over Reported Decree
LOS ANGELES—A roar of protest wa;;
forthcoming from the Independent Theatre:
Owners of Southern California and Arizona
when it took cognizance of reports emanating
from the east that the Department of
Justice had decided to approve a consent
decree on behalf of 20th Century-Fox under
terms of which Charles P. Skouras would b(!
permitted to remain in control of National
Theatres and its subsidiaries, while Spyros
Skouras would continue as 20th Century-
Fox's president.
In a telegram to Howard McGrath, U.S.
attorney-general, and Herbert Bergson, assistant
attorney-general in charge of the
anti-trust division, Fred A. Weller, the ITO';;
general counsel and executive secretary, informed
that the reported decision "is a severe
shock to independent theatre owners . . .
and if put into effect will go far toward-s
nullifying the beneficial effects of the great
and constructive court decisions in U.S. vs.
Paramount."
McGrath and Bergson were urged to give
the matter their "earnest reconsideration"
and conduct further investigations in territories
where NT subsidiaries operate.
"No theatre chain in the entire country,"
Weller's missive charged, "has been built and
operated on a more ruthless, predatory and
monopolistic basis."
The ITO executive added that it is difficult
to see how the Justice department can
"justify continuing control of Fox theatres
in the hands of those who participated in
flagrant violations of the antitrust laws and
who engineered what the U.S. Supreme Court
has so clearly condemned as a program of
monopoly and restraints of trade ."
.
Commenting upon the ITO action, Weller
contended it would be a "grim joke" upon
independent operators if the only "divorcement"
which results in the case of 20th
Century-Fox and the NT circuit is limited
to a change in corporate and stock structure.
He declared that NT's subsidiary in
this area, Fox West Coast, will "continue to
dominate exhibition ... in much the same
old way." and charged that the termination
of pools and partnerships "will not greatly
aid independent theatres in competing
against FWC ... Its buying power will still
be overwhelming and there is no reason to
believe that its practices and tactics will
change in such a way as to make existence
any easier for the small independent exhibitor."
FCC Delays Hearing
On Major Licenses
WASHINGTON—The Federal Communications
Commission announced this week the
postponement until April 24 of its hearing on
a uniform policy for the weighing of records
with regard to antitrust and other federal
laws in considering applications for broadcast
and TV licenses. Briefs are to be accepted
until April 10.
The delay was anticipated, since the original
announcement of the hearing came out
only a week ago. calling for briefs by next
Monday, with the actual hearing to get under
way a week later. More time was asked by
20th Century-Fox, Loew's and a number of
other interested parties.
The question of how much weight should
be given the Supreme's Court's ruling of May
1948 in the Paramount case when considering
applications by defendants in that case
among those to be settled by the outcome
is
of this proceeding. Thus the prospects for
development in home video or even theatre
video by major film distributors may be very
much at stake.
FCC Is Reported Read'y
To Allow Phonevision Test
WASHINGTON—The Federal Communications
Commission is reported ready to permit
a test of pay-as-you-look television. The
commission shortly will announce a reversal
of its decision of last year to turn down the
Zenith Radio Co. bid to test PhonevUion in
some 300 Chicago homes.
The system is advanced by Zenith as one
which will make it po.ssible for video programming
to include far more expensive presentations
than the present advertising-sponsored
programming. With the public in effect
paying admissions. Zenith forecasts, it would
be possible to present first run films in the
home, top dramatic and musical features.
: February 4, 1950 15

"
4 SSfoTWSSj^SE^
AND 20th LEAS
"^fksAaMjBjb tio ^

12 O'CLOCK HIGH
was not eligible
as it is a
1950 release.
IS WITH THE FIRST
2Q[ e**aifiji^ 4c /^/
CENTURY-FOX

"
MPAA Okays COMPO;
Clarifies Contributions
NEW YORK—The Motion Picture Ass'n of
America has become a charter member of
the Council of Motion Picture Organizations.
Action was taken unanimously at a meeting
of the board of directors Tuesday (31 ) . Ratification
followed the pattern of the formal
resolution provided all participating units
after the Washington meeting.
The matter of contributions to COMPO,
which has caused deferral of ratification by
the Theatre Owners of America and the
Society of Independent Motion Picture Producers,
was brought up by Ned E. Depinet,
RKO president, who is a strong supporter of
the new organization. At his suggestion the
directors inserted an additional paragraph
clarifying the method of matching an exhibitor's
voliuitary contribution, based on 10 cents
per $100 of film rental.
The December Washington meeting had
provided that "each such contribution of 10
cents per $100 of feature picture rentals actually
collected by distributors from exhibitors
is to be matched by an identical voluntary
contribution by the producer-distributor of
each feature picture included in the billings.
Ellis Arnall, president of SIMPP, had raised
the point that producers alone were not covered
and wanted to know what will be a producer's
share, if any, of the distributor's cost
of maintaining COMPO.
DECISION IS UNANIMOUS
On Depinet's recommendation, the MPAA
board voted unanimously that "in the event
an independent producer has a distribution
contract with a member of this association
for domestic distribution of a feature picture,
then the voluntary contribution by the producer-distributor,
upon agreement by the independent
producer, shall be deducted from
the total sum which is to be divided between
the producer and the distributor prior to
the division, so that the producer and distributor
shall each pay their pro rata share
of such voluntary contribution."
Asked after the meeting to comment, Depinet
said:
"It is very simple. If RKO has a contract
with an independent producer under the terms
of which 70 per cent of the rentals from the
picture go to the producer and 30 per cent
to the distributor, then the producer would
pay 7 cents and the distributor 3 cents of
every dime to match exhibitor contributions
to COMPO."
Arnall was not in New York at the time of
the meeting and could not be reached immediately
for comment.
"I am highly pleased but not surprised,"
Depinet said, "that my fellow members of
the MPAA board took this step unanimously
and wholeheartedly today, for in addition to
agreeing to match the exhibitors' voluntary
contribution, the vote meant that the member
companies of MPAA were willing to assist in
every practical way in making the Council
of Motion Picture Organizations a useful vehicle
for allout industry cooperation."
MPAA ratification of COMPO followed similar
action by the Metropolitan Motion Picture
Theatres Ass'n, the Motion Picture Industry
Council and the Pacific Coast Conference
of Independent Theatre Owners and
Five COMPO Objectives
Are Named by Depinet
NEW YORK—Five objectives of
COMPO were given by Ned E. Depinet,
RKO president, in his address at the
20th Century-Fox merchandising meeting.
He listed the following objectives:
1. To achieve better public relations.
2. To increase theatre patronage.
3. To improve our internal relations,
particularly among the more than 280,000
persons who are working in every division
of our industry.
4. To prevent unfair legislation and oppose
discriminatory taxation.
5. To obtain research guidance.
the tradepress publishers group. After the
meeting it was said that quick action by
ITOA and Variety International is expected.
The board of National Allied is scheduled to
meet in Washington in about a week. Special
meetings of TOA and SIMPP will be necessary
in view of their postponement of ratification
at recent meetings.
Board of Review Begins
Sale of New Magazine
NEW YORK—The National Board of
Review
began distribution during the week of
the first issue of its new monthly magazine,
Films in Review, a pocket-sized publication
selling for 35 cents. It is advertised as neither
a trade, fan nor aesthetes' magazine but one
which will stress the "problems and achievement
of film output in the U.S. and throughout
the world, both as entertainment and
education." John B. Turner, a member of the
board for ten years, is editor.
The first issue contained articles by William
Wyler, William Wellman and John Huston,
directors; the best films of 1949, film
production in India, progress in the French
film industry, a sketch of Preston Sturges,
director, and articles and book reviews by
Terry Ramsaye, Quincy Howe and others.
Ticket Sales Fluctuate;
Trend in '49 Is Down
NEW YORK—Theatre attendance during
December 1949 was about 11 per cent under
the December 1948 total, according to figures
compiled by Audience Research, Inc. The research
organization estimates a total sale
of 52,500,000 tickets for last December, compared
with 59,200,000 in December 1948.
The third quarter of 1949 was better than
the third quarter of 1948 by 400,000 tickets.
Tlie 1949 total was 66,800,000 and the 1948
total was 66,400,000.
According to the survey, attendance fluctuated
more in 1949 than in 1948. The first
quarter was 10 per cent below the same quarter
for 1948. The second quarter was 15 per
cent behind the same period for 1948.
Eagle Lion Looks Up;
Financing Is Easier
HOLLYWOOD—Financing for independent
production is becoming available from heretofore
uninterested banking sources, it was
revealed by William C. MacMillen jr., vicepresident
in charge of Eagle Lion operations,
who—along with William Heineman, EL
sales head, was in Hollywood to huddle with
filmmakers on current and upcoming product.
Meeting with the film capital tradepress,
MacMillen said that his company had been
successful in securing first money for production
from the Fidelity bank, Philadelphia,
and the First National bank of Detroit,
two ultraconservative financial institutions
neither of which, up to this time, had
ever made a loan to bankroll production.
The EIL executive saw in such situation the
possibility of independent producers opening
up a vast new source of financing and
a resultant mitigation of the financing woes
which have confronted them during the past
few seasons.
AN OPTIMISTIC PICTURE
Heineman and MacMillen painted an optimistic
picture of EL's current status and
its prospects for the future. The former
declared that the company's gross collections
for the first half of 1950 would be anywhere
from 20 to 50 per cent above the
same period of last year.
To expedite financing for independent producers
whose deals are approved. EL now
has a revolving fund of $1,000,000, which
was set up by eastern financiers and New
York brokerage houses. Filmmakers can
draw up to 60 per cent of their necessary
budgets from this pool, the EL toppers explained.
To obtain such backing, however, producers
seeking an EL release must obtain
company approval as concerns script, budget
and casting, MacMillen emphasized. The
packages are scrutinized by Heineman and
N. Peter Rathvon, whose Motion Picture
Capital Corp. is a major source of so-called
"second money" financial support for independents
distributing through EL.
69 FILMS FOR SEASON
MacMillen and Heineman informed that
EL's 1949-50 releasing slate will comprise
69 pictures, of which 12 will come from
J. Arthur Rank's British picturemaking unit.
Of the remainder, 30 will be supplied by
Producer Jack Schwarz and the rest by various
independent sources.
EL itself is supplying the first money, and
personnel of the company from executives
on down through secretarial help is contributing
the balance of the budget, for the
upcoming "The Jackie Robinson Story," film
biography of and starring the famed Negro
athlete, which will be produced by Mort
Briskin.
Jos. Schenck to Arbitrate
In Korda-Selznick Case
NEW YORK—Sir Alexander Korda has
withdrawn his suit against David O. Selznick
seeking to restrain the latter from distributing
Korda's "The Third Man" in the U.S.
and both parties have agreed to submit to
arbitration with Joseph M. Schenck, 20th
Century-Fox studio executive, acting as arbitrator.
18 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

Olii^*
I H^^^^^^Si J SETS Iff
Quits' te!'''''^*«App.
;"^*f!jl?BSs>Sv:,.
450* Exploitation-Wise Exhibitor!!
knowing that
Eagle Lion's
mmm
Charles
Bickford as CardJRal MinilszMty
one of the most widely-publicized
and easily-exploited
ctures in years, have booked it
pre-release in order to be
e FIRST to take advantage of the big campaign Eagle Lion
planning to get this picture off to a ROCKET START!
I to press time,
bre pouring in dally! edV« Seivietvc
begins with
The campaign
^ttAt^'J^^tern^
mim
Hi.

'
In the Ohio region, Stations
WLW, Cincinnati; WIBC,
Indianapolis; WHAS, Louisvil
WSPD, Toledo; WTAM, Cleveland,
and WCHS, Charleston, W.Va.,
are sponsoring an intensive
schedule of events designed to
keep the title GUILTY OF TREASON
before the millions who live,
trade and go to the movies in
"The Heart of the Nation/'
A STRONG RADIO CAMPAIGN-
Ar^o*-
CO"'
• • •
.i*^-*"
,1»»«>"
eot«
,,o-.o»''
^'SivH AV*oW°^' v*«-**
too'^'
The 27 stations of the Yankee
Network are sponsoring
similar programs for
industrial New England -and
eastern New York -providing
coverage of the most
thickly-populated region
in the nation!
full
"Success seems assured through advertising, exploiti
and publicity campaign, which has just gotten under(
'
by Eagle Lion . . ." -^Showmen's Trade Rci

INTINUES WITH POWERFUL NEWSPAPER SUPPORT
74 of the most influential
newspapers will keep
pounding the big news
via half and full-page
regional ads -stories,
^
v^
layouts, pictures!
BRIDGEPORT, Conn., Post Telegram, Sunday
Post
• HARTFORD, Conn., Courant,
Sunday Courant, Times • NEW HAVEN,
Conn., Journal Courier, Register, Sunday
Register • STAMFORD, Conn., Advocate
WATERBURY, Conn., Republican &
American, Republican & American (E &
Su) • INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Star & News,
News Star, Times, Sunday Times • LOUIS-
VILLE, Ky., Courier Journal Times, Sunday
Courier Journal • BOSTON, Mass., Christian
Science Monitor (Atlantic Edition),
Globe, Sunday Globe, Herald Traveler,
Sunday Herald, Post, Sunday Post, Record
American, Advertiser • BROCKTON, Mass.,
Enterprise & Times •LOWELL, Mass., Sun,
Sunday Sun, Telegram • LYNN, Mass.
Item, Telegram News, Sunday Telegram
News • NEW BEDFORD, Mass., Standard
Times, Sunday Standard Times -SPRING-
FIELD, Mass., Union News, Republican
WORCESTER, Mass., Telegram Gazette &
Post, Sunday Telegram • CONCORD, N. H.,
Monitor & New Hampshire Patriot
KEENE, N. H., Sentinel • MANCHESTER,
N. H., New Hampshire Union, Manchester
Leader, New Hampshire Sunday News
PORTSMOUTH, N. H., Portsmouth Herald
CINCINNATI, Ohio, Enquirer, Sunday Enquirer,
Post, Times Star • COLUMBUS,
Ohio, Citizen, Sunday Citizen, Dispatch,
Sunday Dispatch, Ohio State Journal,
Star • CLEVELAND, Ohio, News, Plain
Dealer, Sunday Plain Dealer, Press •DAY-
TON, Ohio, News Jourqal Herald, Sunday
News • TOLEDO, Ohio, Blade & Times,
Sunday Blade • PAWTUCKET, R.I., Pawtucket
Times, Journal Bulletin, Sunday
• Journal Bulletin BURLINGTON. Vt., Free
News, Sunday News • RUTLAND,
Press,
Herald •CHARLESTON, W.Va. Gazette,
Vt.,
the many foreign language newspapers — vitally
interested in the story behind "GUILTY OF TREASON"
— promise all-out co-operation publicity-wise! This
will
be backed with a PAID advertising campaign.
Mail, Sunday Mail.
."
\n outstanding box-office attraction . .
—Pete Harrison
"A great patronage response by a prinned public is indicated
... it is easy to figure on a wide-spread alerted
attendance . . ." — Film Daily

KEY CITIES WHICH
HAVE BOOKED
"GUILTY OF
TREASON"
TO DATE...
Space does not
permit full list of
locked bookings
up to press time!
Strand
Troy
ALBANY AREA
Albany
Pilgri
Mayfli
Esauir
BOSTON AREA
Sitand
Union Squa
Strand
Metropolito
Troy
Boston
Boston
Boston
Bangor
Lowell
w Bedford
Plttsfield
Portland
Providence
Scringfield
Art
Springfield
Warner Worcester
BUFFALO AREA
20th Century Buffo
Jefferson Aubu
Strand
Bingtiomt(
Regent
Elmi
Winter Cordon Jomestov
CINCINNATI AREA
Albee
Cincinno
Cincinnati
Chorleston
Columbus
Dayton
Lexington
Newark
Portsmouth
Springfield
CLEVELAND AREA
pre-release campaign is in ADDITION
to the intensive nation-wide drive Eagle Lion
is conducting through every conceivable
outlet to let the nation know that GUILTY OF
TREASON is BIG, IMPORTANT and — above
all — exciting and dramatic ENTERTAINMENT!
Out of its searing expose of sadistic brutality
and the humiliation of men and women . . .
comes another motion picture that you'll
remember for years!
INDIANAPOLIS AREA
Indiana Indionopolis
NEW HAVEN AREA
College
New Hover
A JACK WRATHER-ROBERT GOLDEN Production starring
PAUL KELLY • BONITA GRANVILLE • RICHARD DERR
and CHARLES BICKFORD as
Cardinal Mindszenty
Screenplay by Emmet Lavery . Directed by FELIX FEIST • An Eagle Lion Films Release

U Loss Is Decreased
For '49 Fiscal Year
NEW YORK—Universal Pictures Co., Inc.,
had a loss of $1,125,851 for the fiscal year
ending Oct 29. 1949. a considerable drop from
the loss of $3,162,812 for the preceding fiscal
year. Tlie latter figure was after a credit
to income in 1948 of $1,240,000 with respect
to an estimated reduction in prior years'
federal taxes on income under carry-back
provisions of the internal revenue code—net
of federal taxes on the 1948 income of certain
subsidiaries.
The income from operations for the 1949
fiscal year was $56,738,335. compared to $57.-
989.307 for the 1948 fiscal year. Amortization
of film costs and royalties for 1949 was
$39,547,382. compared to $42,739,166 for 1948.
The loss per share of common stock outstanding
at yearend after dividends on
preferred stock was $1.45. compared to $3.59
per share for 1948. The shares of common
stock outstanding at the yearend remained
at 960.498. the same as for 1948.
Current and working assets for 1949 were
$35,315,438. compared to $40,830,070 for 1948.
Current liabihties for 1949 were $10,078,846.
compared to $7,932,933 for 1948. Net working
capital for 1949 was $25,236,592 compared
to $32,897,077 for 1948. a decrease
which was due to bank loans paid, sinking
fund debentures and cumulative preferred
stock purchased and dividends declared during
the 1949 fiscal year.
The studio effected economies during 1949
which are reflected in the cost of films produced
and currently being produced, according
to N. J. Blumberg. president. The
films produced during the two years prior
to the 1949 fiscal year were of high negative
cost, the amortization of which continued
to be substantial during 1949. However,
the write-off of these expensive pictures
will have been completed by the end
of the first quarter of the 1950 fiscal year,
Blumberg said.
It is significant that the total of unremittable
funds at the end of the 1949 fiscal
year, translated into dollars at current rates
of exchange, would be approximately $3,000,-
000, Blumberg said. Under the Anglo-American
film agreement, the dollar value of a
substantial portion of Universal's United
Kingdom receipts was unremittable. However,
with the cooperation of the company's
British associates. Universal has been able
to realize on these unremittable funds, according
to Blumberg.
John Taintor Foote Dies
HOLLYWOOD—Death claimed John Taintor
Foote. 69. playwright and scenarist, who
had been in Hollywood since 1938. His last
chore was on "The Great Dan Patch." produced
for United Artists release by W. R.
Frank. Foote is survived by his wife and
two sons.
Among his screenplay credits were "The
Mark of Zorro." "Kentucky" and "The Story
of Seabiscuit."
Over 50 % Republic Lineup Ready
HOLLYWOOD—With the windup of "Hills
of Oklahoma." western starring Rex Allen,
Republic has completed more than half of its
1949-50 program. The slate calls for 57 pictures,
of which 29 have now been finished.
'Blonde Dynamite Opens
New Jim Mote Theatre
Adele Jergens displays, among other things, a fondness for ready cash in this
scene from "Blonde Dynamite," newest in Monogram's "Bowery Boys" series, which
will be premiered February 12 at the Friendship Theatre in Sterling, Okla. Miss
Jergens' %dmiring companions, left to right: David Goreey, Buddy Gorman, Billy
Benedict, Leo Goreey.
HOLLYWOOD—All of the glitter and
glamor that customarily surrounds a Hollywood
premiere will be in evidence when on
February 12 the long-delayed formal opening
of the Friendship Theatre in Sterling, Okla.,
will be staged with the premiere of "Blonde
Dynamite," newest entry in Monogram's
"Bowery Boys" series.
Members of the "Bowery Boys" troupe including
Leo Goreey, Huntz Hall and Billy
Benedict, will make personal appearances on
the stage of the new showcase, as will
Adele
Jergens, glamorous leading lady who has the
title role in the picture. Benedict will make
the junket as a replacement for Gabriel Dell,
who had been set for the personal appearance
but was forced to withdraw because of
a conflicting commitment. Producer Jan
Grippo. who makes the "Bowery Boys" series
fof Monogram, also plans to attend.
Thus will be recorded another chapter in
the lieart-warming saga of the Friendship
Theatre, operated by Jim Mote. The showcase
was constructed as a replacement for
Motes Gem Theatre when the latter house
went up in flames late in 1948. Mote had
carried no insurance and feared the holocaust
had put him permanently out of action.
Major Companies Reverse Position
And Will Back Academy Awards
NEW YORK—Resumption of financial
support of the "Oscar" awards of the Academy
of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was
voted by the presidents of member companies
of MPAA at a board of directors
meeting Tuesday (31). A statement afterwards
said that the decision was readied
"on recommendation of Hollywood studio
executives" and applied to "this year's"
awards. While no sum was mentioned. Hollywood
sources said it is $75,000. and that
is believed to be correct. The next Oscar
its plans for the 1949-50 presentations. Its
board of governors met January 27 in Hollywood
and heard Fred Metzler, its treasurer,
say he had asked MPAA to reverse its position.
Late last fall the academy said it
had accepted an offer to use free of charge
the large RKO Pantages Theatre for the
presentations. The year before, after withdrawal
of company financial support, it used
the limited seating capacity of the Academy
Awards Theatre.
The decision to renew support of Oscar
awards wasn't commented on officially by
presentations occur March 23.
The reversed stand of the companies ends MPAA, only a one-sentence statement being
a controversy started late in March 1949 issued after the meeting. Other sources said
when MGM. Paramount. RKO. 20th Century- that Hollywood pressure had been intense,
Fox and Warner Bros., in statements signed one argument being the great publicity value
by the presidents, said financial .support to the whole industry of the awards. On that
would not be continued in order to "remove basis alone, COMPO. when fully organized
any suspicion of company influence." They and operating under full steam, could have
said they would continue financial support gone into the matter.
of the "original functions" of the academy One company official said there had been
in technical fields, but "no longer provide abuses which he thought would now be corrected.
Among them was the switching of
for the ceremonies attending the annual
awards of Oscars by deficit contributions." playdates so pictures would be shown in Hollywood
theatres in time to qualify for nomi-
They also said they had notified Jean Hersholt,
academy president, of their decision nation for an award. The honesty of the
Dec. 16. 1948.
awards, this man said, has never been questioned.
The academy i.s now expected to announce
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 23

.
fHctt OKCC S(^^C«tt4'
Tax Campaign
JF THE film industry can put on campaigns
that admittedly sold more government
bonds than any other factor, if
it can be the prime stimulant for Red
Cross, March of Dimes and other important
national campaigns, there is every reason
to believe that it can convince theatre
patrons they are the victims of unjust discrimination
when they dish out 20 per cent
on every ticket they buy.
Down in Washington some congressmen
say they can't see any reason why moviegoers
should not pay these taxes. Governor
Dewey takes the same position in
Now York where he is making political
caiiital out of the situation. The governor
wants no taxes on fur coats, jewelry, luggage
and other items in the so-called luxury
classification. He makes no mention
of ticket taxes.
The prime purpose of the industry campaign
is to convince all these political
leaders, including Piesident Truman, that
a large proportion of the wartime excise
levies is coming out of the pockets of people
who can least afford to pay and that exhibition
is small business—very small in
a large proportion of theatres.
Tabulations of the present attitudes of
all senators and representatives are being
made by Abram F. Myers.
The demand for anti-tax petitions from
exhibitors is already enormous and another
printing is planned.
When the full impact of public sentiment
begins to make itself felt some politicians
who now think of the film business
as a source of enormous profits may stop
to ponder the fact that millions of their
constituents have become convinced they
are being imposed upon.
Drive-In Legal Problems
BIUL, introduced in
J^ the Kentucky senate
to impose a 20-cent annual tax per
seat on drive-in theatres poses a problem,
as the oldtime writers used to say. It may
be one of a number of legal complications
which can arise.
In the first place, how many seats are
there in a drive-in? The total changes
from hour to hour, unlike the fixed seats
in a closed theatre which are already taxed
in Kentucky. Even a count of cars won't
prove anything. An old two-seater might
have accommodations for four people and
a new one of the same might be called a
six-sea ter.
Drlve-in operators are prepared to fight
this tax on the ground that an automobile
owner pays a number of taxes before he
can enter a drive-in, including admission
taxes. This being the case, why. they ask,
should a drive-in be called to pay a tax
that it not applied to a parking lot? Both
have already paid license fees before they
open.
Another legal angle that has arisen in
several places is the question of liability
for car damage. If a man bumps another
car or scrapes a fender of another car on
-By JAMES M. JERAULD
drive-in property, who pays—the drive-in
operator or the car owner?
At first glance the problem seems trivial,
but collusion between two car owners in
the dark could cost a drive-in owner a
lot of money, if court precedents should
become fixed. Thus far, drive-in owners
have been able to convince car operators
that whatever damage they do to each
other is their problem.
Cooling System Problems
[TSE of city water in theatre cooling systems
is bringing on a series of restrictions
in scattered municipalities where
water shortages occur or where officials
claim sewers are being overloaded.
"Municipal water systems, from the
source to the sewage plants, are burdened
by air-conditioning installations," says a
bulletin of the American Municipal Ass'n.
"The most common way of regulating this
use of water is to restrict the discharge
into sewers."
The association did some research by
sending letters to city officials.
Some of its findings were: "In New
York, water must be metered if the minimum
rate of use exceeds one-half a gallon
per minute, and air-conditioning systems
must be equipped with a water-conservins
unit, such as a re-circulating device or a
water-cooling tower, if the water use exceeds
an annual average of five gallons per
minute. Elmira, N. Y., forbids the installation
of air-conditioning equipment unless
a means of water disposal other than discharge
into the city sewers is provided.
Other cities regulating water use for air
conditioning include Rochester, Richmond,
Reno, Sacramento, Oklahoma City, Davenport
and Colorado Springs."
There are a number of others not included
in this survey.
This is one of the theatre operating problems
that can be prepared for in advance.
Optimism Spotlighted
^WO news headlines on consecutive days,
Wednesday i25i and Thursday (26),
served to spotlight the spirit of optimism
now prevailing among distribution executives—a
direct contrast to the mood in
early 1949.
The first was a combination of the
statements of Spyros P. Skouras, Al Lichtman,
Andy W. Smith jr. and Charles Einfeld
at the 20th Sentury-Fox merchandising
conference in which they made
known that the company had achieved a
new sales peak. The second was the annual
financial statement of Loew's, Inc., which
showed a net profit for the fiscal year
ending Aug. 31, 1949, of $1,652,649 after all
charges. This topped the previous year by
$631,493.
Seidelman Back in N.Y.
NEW YORK—Sam Seidelman, general foreign
manager of Eagle Lion, has returned
to the home office, following a three-week
inspection trip to London, Paris and Switzerland
for the company.
Lawrence J. McGinley
To Film Classics Post
NEW YORK—Lawrence J. McGinley, recently
sales manager of Prestige Pictures,
Universal subsidiary
distributing J. Arthur
Rank product, has
been named supervisor
of Film Classics' newly
created department
of special films by B. G.
Kranze, vice-president
in charge of sales. Mc-
Ginley will have direct
supervision of a group
of films that will require
special outlets.
McGinley was associated
with Universal
L. J. McGinley
for 22 years and, prior to his Prestige post,
was branch manager of the Seattle and Indianapolis
exchanges. He had worked with
Kranze. who was at one time assistant general
sales manager of the J. Arthur Rank
product.
Fred Meyers Named
Alcorn Sales Head
NEW YORK—Fred Meyers, former eastern
division sales manager
for Universal-International,
has been
named as general
sales manager of R. W.
.'\lcorn Productions,
Inc., by Ronnie Alcorn.
head of the company.
Meyers was with
U-I for ten years and
before that was national
circuit film
buyer for RKO Theatres.
His first task
Fred Meyers will be selling "Johnny
Holiday" which will be released by United
Artists March 1.
RKO Postpones Tradeshow
NEW YORK—The RKO exhibitor tradeshowings
of "Stromboli," the Ingrid Bergman
starring film, have been postponed from
February 7 to February 14.
Theatre Burglars Take
8x10 Section of Screen
Paoli, Ind. — The Strand Theatre was
burglarized recently and the usual damage
was done. The loot apparently was
confined to a small amount of silver and
petty cash. But. the payoff came the following
evening when the curtain went up
for the regular performance to reveal that
an 8xlO-foot section was missing from the
screen.
After the showing of the newsreel, Joe
Brauer, manager, offered to refund admissions.
Most of the patrons remained
seated and the screen was repainted temporarily
with bed sheets. The show went
on. With the aid of long-distance service
and air express a new screen was installed
for the Thursday show. But the
$64 question was the whereabouts of the
stolen section of screen.
24 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

14,320 theatres have played M-G-M's Technicolor cartoon
'MAKE MINE FREEDOM ' and it's still going strong.
M-G-M's Technicolor cartoon ''MEET KING JOE" has barely
begun, but it has already played 8,115 theatres — and it's
headed for a record number of bookings!
NOW COMES M-G-M's TECHNICOLOR CARTOON
WHY PLAY LEAP FROG?
There's a sound reason why American theatre owners are booking
these unusual short subjects.
"WHY PLAY LEAP FROG?" packs
into one reel a lot of hearty laughs, to begin with, and that spells
entertainment. But more than that, it's the most wonderful kind of
tonic for Mr. and Mrs. Average Citizen and their kids because in
simplest way it
how all of us working together can make our democracy a finer
the
explains how our wages affect the prices we pay and
thing for all. Showmen tell us that patrons actually compliment
managers for showing these films. You'll be glad to include "WHY
PLAY LEAP FROG.'^" in your program because when all the laughs
are over the folks will say, "I'm glad I saw that picture!"
BROTHERHOOD FOR PEACE AND FREEDOM

—
: "Adventures
Industry's Teaching Films
Doing Public Relations Job
One of the MPAA's little-known projects is providing
shorts and excerpts from fine pictures to schools and
civic groups to help educate Americans, young and old
By ALAN HERBERT
WASHINGTON—Although it has received
little attention from the industry press in
recent years, one of the outstanding jobs in
public relations for the entire motion picture
industry is being done by Teaching Film Custodians.
No doubt, a good many readers are
wondering at this point who Teaching Film
Custodians are.
TFC is a non-profit operation affiliated
with the Motion Picture Ass'n of America
since it was foi-med 12 years ago. Its function
is to provide theatrical film in 16mm
versions for schools, civic groups and others
who are becoming increasingly aware of the
genuine educational value of much of what
issues from Hollywood in the form of entertainment
films.
The bulk of the library of some 400 titles
is composed of one or two-reel shorts put out
for programming in the nation's theatres. In
addition to these. TFC has prepared three
or four-reel excerpted versions of about four
dozen outstanding features, designed to point
up the historical, social or scientific interest
of the films.
Head of the operation since its organization
has been Roger Albright, formerly with
the board of education of the Methodist
church. Recently this correspondent quizzed
Albright in an effort to determine "What has
been the chief contribution of TFC in making
easier the job of the commercial exhibitor in
his community?"
"PHE night before. Albright pointed out, he
had addressed a Parent-Teacher Ass'n
meeting near Washington. "When we started
functioning a dozen years ago I used to have
to spend most of my time defending Hollywood
whenever I went before such a meeting,"
he recalled.
"I think the most dramatic indication of
what we have accomplished by our sincere
effort to help in the cause of education has
been the change of attitude of the entire
educational world. Last night was typical.
Instead of having to defend Hollywood
against a long list of charges that it was giving
young people false values, I listened to
several complaints against comic books and
television programs and was then permitted
to go into a constructive discussion of visual
education."
Educators today are genuinely interested
in each new Hollywood offering, Albright observed,
because they are now aware that a
tremendous portion of the commercial output
of Hollywood is of great classroom value. The
result is that they are beginning to feel a
community of interest and to look upon the
motion picture industry as an ally rather than
a corrupting enemy.
He recalled that when last year the National
Education Ass'n had prepared an overall
report on the effect of mass entertainment
media on youth, a prepublication draft of the
section dealing with films had been sent him
for study and comment. A dozen years ago,
he was sure, the report would have been
issued without having been studied by anyone
reading from a
film industry viewpoint,
and would
doubtless have lambasted
Hollywood. But
this time Albright
went over the copy and
made several suggestions
which both improved
the factual
value of the report
and resulted in kinder
Roger
Albright
His suggestions were accepted.
treatment of the film
industry.
TFC is self-supporting, and usually turns
in a small surplus. The surpluses are turned
over to various colleges and universities to
finance research projects in the visual education
field. Not a cent of its income is
from admissions, however.
The TFC reels are distributed through some
700 non-profit film libraries—usually public
school or university libraries. These libraries
pay $30 per reel for a three-year rental, or
$40 for ten years, and in turn collect small
fees from the schools or other groups that
screen the films. All renters are required to
pledge that no admission fee will be charged
and the proof that this pledge is observed is
seen in the fact that protests from exhibitors
are almost never received.
An important result of the TFC operation
has been the boxoffice aid to quality pictures
resulting from educational interest. Not only
has the degree of harassment by "crank"
complaints at the local level fallen off sharply
as a result of the new friendship between
educators and the industry, but there is a
growing emphasis in schools upon what Albright
refers to as "photoplay appreciation."
More and more, teachers are recommending
to their pupils that certain films should be
seen for the light they tlirow on a period in
history, an aspect of social relations, some
scientific subject, or music or literature.
Work is currently in progress on a condensed
version of "How Green Was My Valley"
for use by CIO unions. Other short versions
may be undertaken for union use, opening
up an entire new avenue for tile strengthening
of friendship to the industry.
The records are not sufficiently exact to
show how^ frequently these films are seen, but
TFC is able to point to thousands of screenings
annually for some of the titles. Among
the most popular are these: "Give Me Liberty"
(historical!; "A Criminal Is Born" (juvenile
delinquency): "What Is China?" (geogra-
tlTHILE it has been TFC practice not to release
in its 16mm versions any films still
enjoying commercial bookings in quantity,
steps are being taken now to increase the
teacher interest of films currently in the theatres.
In some cases, special supplementary phy •
teaching material and literature are sent out
to the schools for use with films which lead-
Principals
Recommend
Motion Picture Courses
PHILADELPHIA—The National Ass'n
of Secondary School F*rincipals has recommended
a motion picture appreciation
course in all the secondary schools of the
U.S. The recommendation came after a
committee reported to the organization
that "the motion picture is undoubtedly
one of the principal sources from which
the children of high school age draw their
heroes, beliefs, values, ambitions and social
standards.
"In an probability," the committee report
continued, "no other agency, except
the home, the school and the church, has
a greater responsibility to youth and to
society."
The film industry works under a code,
which, the educators said, is highly desirable.
They recommended that the industry
enforce full compliance with the
code in spirit as well as in letter.
Radio was warned that much of its er>
tertainment tends to be at a somewhat
puerile level, but it was commended for
having a large benevolent attitude toward
youth. Giveaway programs were criticized
as promoting dependence upon
luck rather than striving to improve individual
talents.
The committee included both private
and public school representatives.
ing educators have found to be valuable for
teaching purposes.
A teachers' journal in the field of history
and social studies has recently proposed that
it review and promote from the standpoint of
classroom value a feature each month, beginning
with "Prince of Foxes." Such reviewing
offers limitless possibilities for increasing
juvenile attendance and, indirectly, adult
attendance.
Selection of tiie film would be by the journal,
which is in line with TFC policy. Each
title of the entire list has been chosen by
recognized educational authorities, rather
than by Albright or some member of his staff.
In addition to school authorities, the TFC
offerings are available also to industrial firms,
labor unions and others interested in noncommercial
use of 16mm films in visual education.
The vast bulk of the bookings are iB
childhood education, but Standard Oil of
California now has 14 prints, for Instance,
of "Land of Liberty," a review of United
States history made up originally for the New
York and San Francisco World's Pairs. Its
employes see this film. DuPont also shows
this film to its employes.
of Huckleberry Finn" and
"Tale of Two Cities" (literature), and "The
Story of Dr. Carver" (sociological).
26 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

Don't Try to Outsmart Your Patrons
Best Advice to Small Town Exhibitor Is
to Become Part of the Community
By HARLAND RANKIN
•THERE'S been a lot of talk lately about the
public relations aspects of the small town
operation, but it all boils down to the premise
that the small town theatre has a definite
place in the community and to win the respect
of the community must become a part
of it.
When we opened our theatre in Tilbm-y. Ont.,
we soon found out something very basic : You
have to play ball with the townsfolk and don't
try to outsmart your patrons. It could not
be a case of "taking them today and gone
tomorrow." You have to live with them. They
are your neighbors as well as your customers.
Although we live in Chatham and had to
drive 17 miles to Tilbury, we made it a point
to contact the home folks and to learn their
likes and dislikes and their community as
well as personal interests.
A BENEFIT SHOW HELPS
It wasn't long after we opened the theatre
that a young chap fell off a barn and broke
an arm. We saw to it that there was a benefit
performance at the theatre, and enough
money was raised to pay the doctor bills.
This was an event that made us realize the
importance of the theatre as a point of service
in the small community.
Not long afterwards a farmer's house
burned to the ground and with it all his belongings.
He had a large family and we
thought it would be a nice gesture to have a
show for him. We got some of the people
from the church and community groups to
join us and we were able to put on quite a
performance and raise a substantial sum of
money.
We soon learned about the town's annual
field day, a big event in the community. We
let it be known that immediately following
the affair, every boy or girl who participated
would be a guest at the theatre. We opened
the doors at 4 p.m. and had a capacity house
until 6 o'clock. We had the principals of the
schools and the athletes on the stage and, all
in all, it was a gala affair. This won us a
lot of friends.
NEED TO CONSOLIDATE GAINS
Then, to consolidate the goodwill gained
through these events, we developed a good
many other community projects, for both
young and old. We organized a birthday club
and got a local merchant to sponsor it. Now,
the day before each child in the district has
a birthday, we send the youngster a pass to
the theatre. Of course, one can't rest on the
laurels of a single goodwill project. The
participation in community life must be constant.
Before the first Christmas in Tilbury,
we got in touch with one of the civic clubs
and cooperated in staging a canned goods
show. Then we helped fill the baskets the
club always sends to the needy on Christmas
day.
Each year we get the local merchants to
join in a beauty queen competition, to pick
the town beauty for competition in an event
held in a neighboring community. It is quite
an affair, this picking of Miss Tilbury. We
are always careful not to have any local
judges. We import them from neighboring
Harland Rankin (left). Ontario exhibitor,
who is author of the article on this
page, is an ardent boatsinan in addition
to his many other extracurricular activities.
He is shown here receiving the
Erieau Yacht Club trophy at a presentation
ceremony from the commodore of
the club.
towns, to eliminate any possibility that disappointment
on the part of losers or their
friends may be translated into resentment
toward the theatre management. You have
to watch that in small towns.
The theatre got behind the development of
a local band, and this writer took over the
directing when no other director was available.
Then, as an incentive, we had the band
play in front of the theatre followed by a
free show for the musicians.
The schools in any town offer a wonderful
opportunity to build goodwill. We found the
schools appreciate cooperation on the part of
theatre people. For example, we got in touch
with the principal of each school and asked
him to provide us with the name of the boy or
girl in each room who headed the class for
the month. We followed this by sending the
youngsters letters of congratulations, and inviting
them to attend the theatre as our guest.
We also organized a boys' junior police
squad, to help in directing traffic near the
schools, and the boys were our guests at the
theatre. We also organized a safety club and
conducted an essay contest in conjunction
with the club. We got the local newspaper
to judge the entries, and the three best compositions
were published. Then we made the
award presentations from the stage of the
theatre.
Presentations on the stage of the theatre
are very popular. A local girl who made the
headlines by saving a child's life at a summer
resort was presented with a medal from
our stage. We had persuaded the mayor to
make the award, after the theatre had bought
the medal.
On Mother's day, mothers receive a ro.se
as they enter the theatre, the gift of a local
florist. Special drawings are also made for
boxes of candy. Before and after the showing
of the films, we play special Mother's day
records over the public address .system. We
found these little additions so successful that
we took on Father's day and gave away
tobacco and cigarets in drawings from the
stage.
Came Halloween and we decided to do
.something about curtailing vandalism. We
got in touch with the Lions club and introduced
a costume party at the theatre. The
Lions shared expenses with the theatre and
both community and theatre benefited. It
has been a successful affair each year since.
It was our privilege to help organize Rotary
in Tilbury and on Charter Night all visiting
Rotarians who brought their wives were
guests at the theatre. Since then, the club
has sponsored what it calls "A Theatre
Night With Rotary." We book one of the best
pictures for the occasion. Rotarians go all
out to sell tickets and each year manage to
raise all funds necessary to carry on their
work with crippled children, without going to
the public directly for contributions. It has
been an easy way for them to raise money,
and has won us a lot of goodwill. Not only
have we assisted them in raising this fund,
but we have made an effort to get them
industry speakers for their luncheon meetings.
This they have appreciated very much,
and at the same time enabled us to get the
industry's story to the public.
L.-VBOR GROUPS COOPERATE
With labor becoming an important factor
in community life, we have on many occasions
tiu-ned the theatre over for Sunday
morning union meetings.
We also found out that it sometimes pays
to lose an immediate financial gain to win
the goodwill of the home folk. For : onie
time we ran midnight shows. The policy
gave us an opportunity to play off some of
the smaller pictures and consequently to get
A product earlier. Although this turned out
to be beneficial to us, it wasn't so good for
the community. It created extra nighttime
traffic becau.se people started racing their
cars after the shows, necessitated extra
policemen, and brought us a good many letters
of complaint. So we cut out the midnight
shows, feeling that this was the best way out
of the situation. We think the overall situation
has been better for us than if we had
continued the policy of the late performances.
At least those who had been losing
sleep becau.se of racing motorists were grateful.
AID TO LOCAL AFFAIRS
We run slides on local affair.5 on our screen,
but we charge for it now whereas it used to
be free. We found that some people abused
the privilege and we decided to make a charge
of $1 per slide. The hometown folks appreciate
the availability of the screen no less
and abuses are eliminated. However, when
it comes to civic events of general interest
we always plug them without cost.
This year we hope to cooperate with the
Board of Trade in spon.soring a Tilbury
Week, and making a major event out of it.
We hope to bring in a movie star and broadcast
from the stage of the theatre. This is
still in the form of a small town dream but
dreams do come true.
These are som.e of the goodwill-building
activities and experiences which we want to
pass on to other small town exhibitors.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 27

THIS IS
1
In
its
OUTLAW
more
picture relea

FEBRUARY TIES JANUARY LINEUP
WITH 38 PRODUCTIONS TO ROLL
HOLLYWOOD—Consistent, if not spectacular,
is the productional pace being established
as the film colony enters the second
month of 1950.
Blueprinted for camera work during February
were 38 subjects, exactly the same
number as were on the January docket, and
considerable of increase over the most dismal
tally chalked up during 1949, the 25-picture
total carded during December.
Of further encouragement was the consensus
opinion of studio representatives that
March may see a healthy upswing in picture-making
tempo, since camera activity in
February is being kept more or less under
wraps. This situation, a yearly development,
stems from a tax imposed on negative footage
by the state of California, the levy being
collected on all such footage within the state
boundaries as of March 1.
Of the 38-picture total listed for the month,
27 are newcomers to the lineup, the remaining
11 being carryovers from previously announced
starting dates. By studios, the record
looks like this:
Columbia
Equaling the pace projected for January,
this studio has five subjects poised and
awaiting the go signal for the current period,
three of them newcomers to the lineup, the
remaining pair carryovers from earlier starting
dates. Mickey Flooney will have the title
role and Terry Moore the feminine lead in
"Freddie the Great." a comedy on Producer
Rudolph Flothow's agenda, in which Rooney
portrays an amateur magician whose magic
acts get him into a series of complications.
Early in the month, however, no director had
been assigned. Likewise minus a director's
services were "Prowl Car." with which Hunt
Stromberg makes his bow as a Columbia
producer, and "Isle of Samoa." The Stromberg
entry, to star Larry Parks, is cops-androbbers
fare about a young radio patrol car
officer involved in breaking up a gang war.
"Samoa," which Wallace MacDonald will pro-
Scheduled for release through this company,
and going before the cameras late in
January, is "The Sun Sets at Dawn." being
co-produced by Paul Sloan and Helen Rathvon,
with Sloan doubling as director. The
melodrama revolves around a youth condemned
to the electric chair, with the action
all taking place within the span of an hour.
Monogram Starts Work
On 'Modern Marriage'
Although as concerns budget, star
names and other evidences of productional
opulence it cannot measure up to many
of the film ventures listed for camera
work during the month by other studios.
Monogram's "A Modern Marriage" rates
more than passing attention when the
significance attached to its story hne is
considered.
For it exemplifies the screen's constantly
increasing tendency to explore the
sociological and psychological facets of
modern life, as typified by such recent
entries as Film Classics' "Not Wanted"—
a story of unwed mothers—and Pilmakers'
upcoming project for RKO Radio,
"Nobody's Safe,", which deals with rape.
The Monogram feature, to be produced
by David Diamond, concerns itself with
the problems arising from a young wife's
frigidity in marriage. Based on a case history
in the files of the American Institute
of Family Relations, it will carry a foreword
by Dr. Paul Popenoe, director of the
institute, describing the girl in question
as one so possessed by her mother that
she cannot be possessed by her husband.
The cast includes Margaret Field, Robert
Clarke and Nana Bryant, and Paul
Landres will be the megaphonist.
Cast toppers are Sally Parr and Philip
Shawn, screen newcomers.
Independent
, duce as a Jon Hall starrer, has—as its title
indicates—a South Seas locale. In the holdover
category are "The Fuller Brush Girl"
and "Firefighters." The former co-stars Lucille
Ball and Eddie Albert. Lucille portraying
a door-to-door saleswoman. Eddie a
timid steamship company clerk who becomes
involved in a series of escapades with her.
The S. Sylvan Simon production will be
megged by Lloyd Bacon. "Firefighters." a
Milton Feldman production, was minus a director
and cast as the month began. It is a
character study of a group of men working
in a fire station, dealing with their conflicts
and problems.
Eagle Lion
Lippert
As his first starring vehicle since he recently
secured a release from his term contract
at MGM. "Van Heflin is the topliner
in "Cost of Living," a suspense drama being
readied under the banner of Horizon Pictures.
This company is headed by Sam
Spiegel and Director John Huston, but the
latter is not undertaking the megging chores
on the Heflin vehicle, which will be piloted
by Joseph Losey. Although Horizon has a
two-picture releasing commitment with Columbia
("We Were Strangers" was the first
to be delivered under that agreement) "Cost
of Living" is not earmarked for Columbia
distribution. The story concerns the illicit
romance of a young wife and an all-night
disk jockey, the murder of her husband, the
lovers' flight from the law and their ultimate
capture.
Although no cast had been set for any
of the vehicles as the month began,
this production-distribution firm planned
February starts for three subjects, a notch
higher than last month, when two films were
poised for the green light. With its story
line in the hush-hush category, "None Came
Back" was being readied by Producer-Director
Kurt Neumann: It is described as an
adventure-fantasy, but beyond that point no
information as to its plot content was available.
A musical with a film colony background.
"Hollywood Holiday." will be coproduced
by Murray Lerner and Jack Leewood,
the latter making his entry into the
ranks of production after more than two
years as the company's advertising-publicity
director. It will be megged by Paul Landres.
In the holdover classification is "Highway
Patrol." melodrama about the state highway
police, being prepared for production by Barney
Sarecky. with Sam Newfield directing.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
After a lengthy absence from screen activity,
Lana Turner was slated to step before
the cameras this month as the star of
"A Life of Her Own." one of two starting
subjects in the lair of Leo the Lion. To be
produced by Voldemar Vetluguin. and with
George Cukor at the megaphone, the Turner
tophner is adapted from a novel by
Rebecca West and will have Ann Dvorak and
Louis Calhern in other leading roles. Lana
is cast as a chorine who becomes the girl
friend of a business tycoon, a liaison which
results in a romantic triangle. Also on the
docket, and a holdover from a previously
announced starting date, is "To Please a
Lady," co-starring Clark Gable and Barbara
Stanwyck. Gable is cast as a daring race
driver who risks his life on the thundering
speedways: Miss Stanwyck is a newspaper
columnist whose barbed words precipitate
a feud that ends at the altar. Clarence Brown
has the dual chores of producer and director.
Monogram
Among a total of five subjects docketed
for starts during the period, one— "A Modern
Marriage"—looms, by reason of its subject
matter, as probably the most provocative
screen enterprise to be undertaken currently
by an studio. Consequently it is discussed
in detail in a box elsewhere on this
page. One other, an untitled western toplining
Whip Wilson, got under way in January's
closing days, but since it had not been
tabulated among January's starting subjects,
is reckoned as a part of the studio's February
output. It is being produced and directed
by Wallace W. Fox. The remaining
three entries are all of the "series" variety.
Latest in the "Joe Palooka" saga is "Humphrey
Takes a Chance." a Hal E. Chester
production toplining Joe Kirkwood. Leon
Errol and Robert Coogan. but to which no
director had been assigned as the month
began. Likewise sans megaphonist was "High
Stakes," newest in the "Bowery Boys" group,
featuring Leo Gorcey. Huntz Hall and Gabriel
Dell and to be produced by Jan Grippo. In
this one the "Bowery Boys" smash a gambling
racket. Third in the "Latham Family"
series will be "Henry Does It Again," with
Rayvnond Walburn repeating in the title role.
Peter Scully producing and Jean Yarbrough
at the directorial helm.
Paramount
FYom Independent Producer Hal Wallis will
30 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

come one of the two scheduled starting
vehicles on tlie Maratlion street lot, wliile
the studio itself sponsors the other. The
Wallis opus, "No Escape," will team Burt
Lancaster and Don DeFore. and has a bigtime
gambling theme backgrounded against
Chicago and Las Vegas, with Lancaster, as
the chief of operations, eventually being regenerated.
Early in the month a director
had not yet been selected. Also nearing the
sound stages, as a holdover from last month,
is "Montana Rides," Technicolor sagebrusher
adapted from the western novel by Max
Brand, with Alan Ladd in the starring role.
Mel Epstein produces and Leslie Fenton
directs the yarn, which has a background of
Texas and Mexico in the 1860s.
RKO Radio
Contributions from independent producers
will comprise two of the four features lined
up for camera work this month by the
Howard Hughes company. Both, incidentally,
are holdovers. Pilmakers, the unit headed
by Ida Lupino and Collier Yoimg, will
gun "Nobody's Safe." with Actress Lupino
assuming the megging chore. She will not,
however, be a member of the cast, which,
as the month began, had not been rounded
up. It is described as a semidocumentary
about the effects of rape, psychologically and
sociologically, upon a young girl. The other
independent contribution is "The Story of a
Divorce," a Jack Skirball-Bruce Manning
production, toplining Bette Davis, and to be
directed by Curtis Bernhardt. It is the story
of a wife who, realizing her marriage is
breaking up. reviews the past and discovers
her own weaknesses are responsible. Costarring
Victor Mature and William Bendlx,
"Alias Mike Fury" will roll under the productional
guidance of Warren Duff, with Ted
Tetzlaff directing. Bendix portrays a ruthless
gang leader and Mature an underworld
habitue who fails to appreciate the value of
American citizenship until faced with the
probability of losing it through deportation
because of his criminal record. In the copsand-robbers
vein is "Bunco Squad," uncast
early in the period, and slated for production,
by Lewis J. Rachmil. Herbert I. Leeds
will dil-ect the opus, which is concerned with
the activities of a big-city police department.
Republic
By all odds the busiest actor on this
valley lot is Allan "Rocky" Lane, who rode
thataway late in January in "Salt Lake
Raiders" and is scheduled to topline "Covered
Wagon Raid" some time this month as
the fourth and fifth, respectively, in a projected
series of eight Lane starrers for the
1949-50 season. Both are under the productional
guidance of Gordon Kay: "Salt
Lake Raiders" was being directed by Fred
Brannon, but a megaphonist had not. at
this writing, been assigned "Covered Wagon
Raid." A comedy-drama is "Dark Violence,"
initial production for the company by William
T. Lackey, to be directed by George
Blair but uncast early in the month. Its
central character is a small-town gal who
befriends a gangster on the lam and inherits
his fortune when he dies. Complications
ensue when the mobster's henchmen
and a small-town gang clash in trying to
lay their hands on the money. Another In
the women-in-prison cycle. "Prisoners in
Petticoats," is up for production by Lou
Brock, but it, too, lacked a cast.
WARNERS HONORED—For "fostering racial and religious goodwill," Harry M.
and Jack L. Warner, president and executive producer, respectively, for Warner
Bros., were presented the Judge Harry A. Hollzer Memorial award by 320 major
Jewish organizations in the Los Angeles area. Left to right: Mendel Silberberg,
who made the presentations; Jack L. Warner, Harry M. Warner, Judge Isaac Pacht.
20th Century-Fox
Already the creator of a lengthy list of
musicals in which the lives, loves and assorted
vagaries of those tunesmiths whose
native habitat is quaintly termed Tin Pan
Alley are traced, the Westwood studio will
put another one in the works with the
launching this month of "I'll Get By." It
will be in Technicolor—practically standard
equipment for such enterprises—with June
Haver. William Lundigan and Dennis Day
sharing the toplines. The William Perlberg
production will be directed by Richard Sale,
who also wrote the original and collaborated
on the screenplay with Mary Loos. Tentatively
slated for February starts are two
others—"Jackpot" and "Night Without
Sleep"—but. as the month got under way.
neither could boast cast. "Jackpot." a Sam
Engel production, is based on John Mc-
Nulty's New Yorker short story satirizing
the radio giveaway craze. A Robert Bassler
production, "Night Without Sleep" will be
megged by Edmund Goulding, with the action
taking place within a 24-hour span, showing
how the life of one man is affected
through his meeting with three different
women.
United Artists
Having secured a two-picture releasing
deal through this distribution company,
Gloria Films, the newly organized independent
headed by Writer-Producer I. G.
Goldsmith, will tee off with "Three Husbands."
a romantic comedy-drama for which
Emlyn Williams is being imported from
England to topline with Louise Erickson and
Vanessa Brown. As concerns both title and
subject matter, the offering appears to be
in the same general vein as was a 20th Century-Fox
release of last season, "A Letter
to Three Wives." In this instance a man
dies and leaves letters to three husbands,
intimating he has had an affair with each
of their wives. Irving Reis will direct.
Universal-International
Rolling along in fine style, this valley lot
is undertaking a four-picture starting schedule
for the month. The slate leads off with
"Louisa." a domestic comedy which Robert
Arthur produces and Al Hall directs, and
toplining Ronald Reagan. Ruth Hussey,
Spring Byington and Charles Coburn. It
concerns a young married couple and what
happens to their lives when the husband's
widowed mother becomes involved in a romantic
triangle. Also in comedy vein is
"Ma and Pa Kettle Back Home." third in
the "Kettle" series, with Marjorie Main and
Percy Kilbride again co-starring. Edward
Sedgwick will direct the Leonard Goldstein
production. Carryovers from previously announced
starting dates are "Winchester .73"
and "Panther's Moon." The former, co-starring
James Stewart and Shelley Winters, will
be directed for Producer Aaron Rosenberg
by Anthony Mann. It's a historical western
dealing with the important part played by
the historic Winchester repeating rifle in
pioneer days. "Panther's Moon." a postwar
story of international espionage laid in Italy
and Switzerland, co-stars Marta Toren and
Howard Duff, with George Sherman at the
megaphone and Ralph Dietrich producing.
Warner Bros.
stepping up its pace over January, when
two films were scheduled for camera work,
this Burbank film foundry lists three starting
subjects for the current period. A Technicolor
western. "Sugarfoot," will be megged
by Edwin L. Marin and produced by Saul
Elkins. with Randolph Scott. Patricia Neal
and Raymond Massey In the topKnes.
Adapted from a novel by Clarence Budington
Kelland, the yarn concerns a southern aristocrat
who, after the Civil War, heads west
and is humanized by the rigors of frontier
life. Ring Lardner's classic baseball comedy.
"Elmer the Great," is also on Elkins"
productional agenda as a remake of the
First National opus filmed in 1933 with
Joe E. Brown in the starring role. For the
new version, as the month got under way,
no cast had been chosen. Jack Carson, originally
set to star, having bowed out of his
contract with the studio. Richard Bare will
be the director. The other starter, a holdover,
is "Lightning Strikes Twice," first
American starring vehicle for Richard Todd,
the young Irish actor who rose to prominence
via "The Hasty Heart." King Vidor
megs the Henry Blanke production, in which
Todd portrays a man acquitted of the murder
of his wife, but who does not find complete
exoneration in the eyes of his friends
until he ferrets out the real slayer. Cast
in Todd's support are Mercedes McCambridge
and Ruth Roman.
BOXOFTICE : : February 4, 1950
31

BROTHERHOOD WEEK—Februory 19-26, Brotherhood—for Peoce ond Freedom. Beheve it! Live it! Support it!

'
The Same Paramount
Selling That Made
"Dear Ruth'a Sensation!
Intensive use of
radio at point-of-sale got
spectacular results with "Dear Ruth" and
will be repeated, p/its, for this new hit with
the same stars. Wonderful ad campaign, too!
Typical is 2 -color ad on opposite page now
in 11 magazines read by 18 million fans!
Be sure that yon play
Dear ^V^f e'
^
on the Washington's Birthday holiday, because,
as Boxoffice says, "It's one hundred
percent entertainment ... as good, if not
better than its predecessor, 'Dear Ruth'!"
— truer today than ever, with great dramas Hke Cecil B.
DeMille's Masterpiece, "Samson and Delilah,"
William Wyler's "The Heiress," Hal Wallis' "Thelma
Jordon"— and great comedies like "The Great Lover"
and now "Dear Wife"!

HEW SCREENING DATES!
RKO RADIO PICTURES, inc.
TRADE SHOWINGS OF
STROMBOLI
ALBANY, Fox Screening Room, 1052 Broadway,
Tues., February 14, 8:00 P.M.
ATLANTA, RKO Screening Room, 195 luckie Si.,
N.W., tues., February 14, 2:30 P.M.
BOSTON, RKO Screening Room, I 22-28 Arlington
St.. Tues., February 14, 10:30 A.M.
BUFFALO, Mo. Pic. Operators Screening Room,
498 Pearl St., Tues., February 14, 2:30 P.m!
CHARLOTTE, Fox Screening Room, 308 S. Church
St., Tues., February 14, 2:00 P.M.
CHICAGO, RKO Screening Room, 1300 So.
Wobosh Ave., Tues., February 14, 2:00 P.M.
CINCINNATI, RKO Screening Room, 12 East
6th St., Tues.. February 14, 8:00 P.M.
CLEVELAND, Fox Screening Room, 2219 Payne
Ave., Tues., February 14, 2:30 P.M.
DALLAS, Paramount Screening Room, 412 South
HorwootJ St., Tues., February 14, 1:30 P.M.
DENVER, Paramount Screening
St., Tues., February 14, 2:00 P.M.
Room, 2 100 Stout
OES MOINES, Fox Screening Room, 'l300 High
St., Tues., February 14, 1:00 P.M.
DETROIT, Blumenthol's Screening Room, 2310
Cass Ave., Tues., February 14, 2:30 P.M.
INDIANAPOLIS, Universal Screening Room, 517
N. Illinois St., Tues., February 14, hOo'p.M.
KANSAS CITY, Paramount Screening Room, 1800
Wyandotte St., Tues., Februory 14, 2:00 P.M.
LOS ANGELES, RKO Screening Room, 1980 So.
Vermont Ave., Tues., Februory 14, 2^30 P.M
MEMPHIS, Fox Screening Room, 151 Vance
Ave., Tues., February 14, 2.00 P.M.
MILW/AUKEE, Worner Screening Room, 212 W.
Wisconsin Ave., Tues., February 14,2.'00 P.M.
MINNEAPOLIS, Fox Screening Room, 1015 Currie
Ave., Tues., February 14, 2:30 P.M.
NEW HAVEN, Fox Screening Room, 40 Whiting
St., Tues., February 14, 2:00 P.M.
NEW ORLEANS, Fox Screening Room, 200 S.
Liberty St., Tues., February 14, 10:30 A.M.
NEW YORK, Normondie Theatre, 53rd St. &
Pork Ave., Tues., February 14, 10:30 A.M.
OKLAHOMA CITY, Fox Screening Room, 10
North lee St., Tues., February 14, 10:30 A.M.
OMAHA, Fox Screening Room, 1502 Dovenpoil
St., Tues., February 14, 1:00 P.M.
PHILADELPHIA, RKO Screening Room, 250 N.
13th St., Tues., Februory 14, 2:3o'p.M.
PITTSBURGH, RKO Screening Room, 1809-13
Blvd. of Allies, Tues., Februory 1 4, 1 :30 P.M.
PORTLAND, Stor Screening Room, 925 N.W
19th Ave., Tues., Februory 14, 2:30 P.M.
ST. LOUIS, RKO Screening Room, 3143 Olive
St., Tues., February 14, 1:00 P.M.
SALT LAKE CITY, Fox Screening Room, 216 E.
1st St. South, Tues., February 14, 1:30 P.M.
SAN FRANCISCO, RKO Screening Room, 251
Hyde St., Tues., Februory 14, 2:30 P.M.
SEATTLE, Jewel Box Screening Room, 2318
2nd Ave., Tues., February 14, 2:30 P.M.
SIOUX FALLS, Hollywood Theatre, 212 North
Philips Ave.. Tues., Februory 14, 10:00 A.M
WASHINGTON, Fox Screening Room, 932 New
Jersey Ave.. Tues., Februory 14, 10:30 A.M.
34
fi/a^Aut^toH'
^HE FACT THAT THE admissions tax yielded
ten million dollars less last year than in
1948 is important—but far more important in
terms of the battle to repeal the tax is that,
there are a thousand or more additional boxoffices
from which the collection was made.
The overall drop was from $385 to $375 million
for admissions, with motion picture admissions
accounting for from 70 to 80 per
cent of the total.
To the average congressman this doesn't
look too good, but neither does it appear to
support the complaints of exhibitors that
their business is suffering from the boxoffice
tax. A ten-million dollar difference is something
to think about—but it doesn't look like
catastrophe.
The picture is different, though, when it is
made clear that a drop of ten million dollars
in the tax means a drop of at least 50 millions
in business—and that while business is off
that much there are a thousand or more additional
ticket windows through which that
business passes.
In other words, not only is the pie a whole
lot smaller, but it's got to be cut into a whole
lot more pieces.
THE CAMPAIGN FOR REPEAL of the excise
taxes is in high gear, with the Council
of Motion Picture Organizations drive about
to get under way now. It is fortunate that
the COMPO plans were set before the presidential
tax message was issued, because it is
vital that not a day be lost now. By failing
to recommend reduction of the admissions
tax, President Truman has made it simpler
for members of Congress to turn their backs
on the industry battle.
It is encouraging that such key men as
Chairman Walter George of the senate finance
committee still think the admissions
tax should be reduced just as much as the
other excises. We are told by one extremely
friendly senator who has been buttonholing
members of the finance committee that the
support for the industry position on that
committee is surprisingly strong. But he
warns that it will weaken fast unless supported
by a powerful grassroots campaign.
And he adds that no matter how strong
the disposition to cut the admissions tax.
final determination is going to be made on
the strength of the nation's financial prospects.
In other words, no matter how much
sympathy there is toward the industry campaign,
the determining factor will ultimately
be the cash figures involved.
PLENTY OF INTEREST is manifested in
the campaign by Frank Boucher, manager of
the mushrooming Kogod-Burka circuit here,
for authorization to use National Screen
Service trailers to advertise the billings of
the KB houses on a nightly commercial television
program here. Thus far only UA has
okayed the move, with the other Washington
managers having refused to permit the airing
of their trailers.
Boucher says he will carry the battle to
New York once he is through with the various
tasks attendant upon the opening of the circuit's
latest new theatre—the 970-seat Flower,
^efiont
By ALAN HERBERT
U.S. Ticket Tax Take
For 1949 Below 1948
WASHINGTON — Treasury figures
released
this week show that the federal admissions
tax yielded about ten million
dollars less last year than in the 1948
calendar year. Totals were $375,768,505.
compared with $385,129,104. These figures
are 12-month totals based on business
done from December 1 of the previous
year through November 30.
The December collection was $33,513.-
950. compared with a December 1948 total
of $37,927,133. November 1949 collection
had been $34,306,573.
which is the last word in neighborhood theatres.
The Flower is the only local suburban
house with staggered seating, and only the
second with pushback seats—the other being
KB's Naylor. It will be managed by Howard
Hutton. an alumnus of the Schine chain.
If Boucher does work it out with the distributors
so that he can use their trailers,
patrons of the Flower may be able to see what
is being offered in the chain's other theatres.
The lounge will have a television set.
SPEAKING OF TELEVISION, both Loews
and 20th Century-Fox have asked a 60-day
delay in the hearings called by the Federal
Communications Commission to determine
whether it should take into account when
determining license qualifications such things
as previous antitrust law violations. At stake
is the right of the major film companies and
some circuits such as Schine to participate in
broadcasting and video, even though it Is certain
that whatever comes out of the hearings
the commission will seek to foUow a policy
of treating each application on its own merits.
The hearing was announced only last week.
with less than three weeks notice. It was set
to begin February 13. but a delay is likely.
Another War Documentary
To Be Filmed by MGM
HOLL'YWOOD—As a successor to its current
World War II release, "Battleground,"
which glorified the record of the 101st airborne
division at the Battle of the Bulge,
MGM is blueprinting "Go for Broke" as a
documentary storj' of the 442nd regimental
combat team, formed of all American-
Japanese except for a sprinkling of officers.
"Go for Broke" — popular Nisei slang for
"shoot the works"—will be authored and directed
by Robert Pirosh, who WTOte and was
associate producer on "Battleground." It is
scheduled for camera work next fall. Production
will have full U. S. army cooperation.
The 442nd. all volunteers, had an unexcelled
war record, winning eight unit citations,
one medal of honor, 3,660 Purple Hearts
and 3,915 individual awards in the bitterest
fighting from Anzio to the German surrender
in Italy.
BOXOFFICE :: February 4. 1950

Theatre
Construction,
Openings and Sales
CONSTRUCTION:
Cloy Center, Kas.—Five-acre tract on Route 24
purchased by Ken Ehret and Gordon Erickson for
construction of 325-car drive-in,
Demopolis, Ala.—Webb Bros, begcfn construction
of 300-car drive-in
Hazlehurst,
on
Ga.—Jeff
highway
Davis
80.
Thecftre opened by
Stein circuit,
Hugoton, Kas.—Ten-acre site purchased- by Russell
Harris for construction of drive-in.
Miami, Fla.—Work begun on 150-car drive-in at
Morthwest Seventh avenue and 87lh street for George
Wilby.
Mixineapolis, Minn.—900-seat Central to be built by
Donald Shanedling and associates.
Porterville, Calif.—Verne Sch-^in building 700-car,
$65,000 drive-in,
Portsmouth. N. H.—Permit granted E. M, Loew
and Larry Laskey to construct 864-car drive-in on
Route 1.
San Antonio, Tex.—John Carson, John Santikos,
Louis Santikos. Olmos Amusement Co., building newsuburban
theatre.
Son Antonio, Tex.—Lcmdsman-Richter Enterprises
plan to construct 800-car Rigsby Drive-In.
Tuscumbia. Ala.—Work resumed on $250,000, 950-
seat theatre ior Muscle Shoals Theatres.
OPENINGS:
Berwick, La.— St, Mary Drive-In, 350 cars, S40,00n,
opened by Southeastern Theatres.
Devine, Tex. — 300-car Medina Valley Drive-In
opened on Highw^cy 81.
Paul, Ida.— Mr- and Mrs. Arvis Edmondson opened
'100-seat ArVon.
Pelahaichie. Miss.—Rickey opened.
Premont, Tex.—R. N. Smith Theatres, Inc., opened
oOO-secrt Rig
Tampa, Fla.—Fun-Lan, 650 cars, opened by P. J.
Sones and S T. Wilson,
Tarrentum, Pa.—Manos Theatre reopened by Manos
circuit after $200,000 renovation job.
Winter Haven, Fla.—330-car drive-in opened by
Talgar circuit.
SALES:
Brawley, Calif.—J. R
Eureka from Ben Ameda
McDonough purchased
Brighton. Ala.—Fox to J. P Corbetl by Mr. and
Mrs I. Lewis Philips.
Colipotria. Calif.—Ben Ameda sold Calipatria to
I R. McDonough.
Chapmonville. W. Va.—Harold McCIoud purchased
Rex Irom C, D Hager.
Daly City, Calif.— Edward Albin purchased Crest
from Ray Knight.
Falfurrias, Tex.—Van Chamberlain purchased Star
Dri
Hawkins. Tex.—Roy DeVinney sold Hawk to B. B.
Spurlock.
Hueytown, Ala.—Howard A. Sadler bought Princess
Irom Harry Willoughby.
Now Boston, 111.—New Boston purchased by Harold
McMeen and Kenneth Bergren.
Kre'isler Picked to Help
Sell Foreign Films Here
NEW YORK—B. Bernard Kreisler, who ha.s
been a student of the European film industry
for several years, has
been made executive
director of the new
Motion Picture Ass'n
of America advisory
unit for foreign films
and will work with
John G. McCarthy.
MPAA vice - president
in charge of international
affairs.
The unit will provide
information for
B. Bernard Kreisler foreign - language producers
and distributors
on U.S. customs, taxation, state censorship,
importation and storage of prints under
bond and the production code. It will
supply free screening service, arrange for the
reception here of foreign producers and distributors
and supply them with lists of likely
outlets for their films, including analyses of
the potentialities of different markets.
A committee will be formed to consist of
the presidents of the U.S. international companies
and representatives from Italy, France.
Mexico. Argentina, Sweden and Spain. It is
expected that India and Germany will be
added later to the committee, but its services
will be made available immediately to
all foreign producers.
No special effort in behalf of Great Britain
is being made at the outset, McCarthy said
Tuesday (31), because that country has no
foreign-language difficulty here and because
it already has representation here through
Universal - International and Eagle Lion.
MPAA will pay the expenses of foreign producers'
representatives coming here for aid.
The first, who was unidentified, may arrive
in about two weeks.
Kreisler is well known in the industry. He
is a graduate of the Harvard School of Business
Administration and has been associated
Rank's Children's Films Go Over in
PHILADELPHIA—The J. Arthur Rank
pictures made especially for the juvenile
market caught on with Philadelphia
youngsters who saw them at the experimental
programs offered at the Hollywood
Theatre here. Local sponsors saw in them
an opportunity to develop a special type
of motion picture for the young filmgoer
which will be attractive to the yoimgsters
and acceptable to adult groups urging
better children's programs.
The program at the Hollywood Theatre,
owned by Melvin Fox, consisted of four
subjects. The first, "Bush Christmas,"
was a 69-minute film produced in Australia.
The stoi-y concerns the search for
horse thieves by a group of children, with
the culprits captured by the youngsters
with the aid of their parents. The second
subject was a seven-minute black and
white cartoon, "Robin A. Robins." Third
on the program was an 18-minute film,
produced in Canada, entitled "The Boy
Who Stopped Niagara," and the story
concerned the search for a boy who had
removed an important key and thereby
had turned off the power derived from
Niagara's power projects. The final subject
was a nine-minute scientific short,
made in England, entitled "Who, What
and Why?"
Mrs. Victor Frank, chairman of the
women's committee of the Philadelphia
Forum which sponsored the showing, said
adult groups throughout the country
should begin a movement to obtain this
type of film entertainment for American
children. "These pictures," she said, "are
entertaining and beneficial to youngsters.
The stories presented situations with
which the children could identify themselves.
The primary actors were children
and the action on the screen captured
their Imagination."
with the American Arbitration Ass'n, Trans-
Lux Theatres, Academy of Motion Picture
Arts and Sciences, the code board, Universal-
International and United Artists. He recently
completed a 20-month, 17-country survey of
foreign film conditions for Harvard.
McCarthy said that he and Eric Johnston,
MPAA president, had found foreign producers
unhappy over the U.S. market, believing
themselves excluded, and that because of an
identity of interest the fair and sensible
thing to do is to help them. He also saw
"larger economic i.ssues involved" such as the
great need of debtor nations for American
dollars. He said that they were not to be
guaranteed any increase in dollar earnings
here, as that would depend on the acceptability
of their product and their skill at marketing
it after having been supplied with
necessary information. A pamphlet in several
languages will be issued shortly. The State
department and foreign legations have informally
expressed enthusiasm.
The matter has been taken up informally
with the Society of Independent Motion Picture
Producers with the hope of getting the
support of that organization. No independent
distributors of foreign films here have protested,
McCarthy said, and MPAA expects
to work closely with them.
The free screening service will include
showings in the projection rooms of MPAA
distributor members with the expectation that
important executives of those companies will
sit in. McCarthy said he has already approached
the Ti-easury department regarding
possible adjustments in the 30 per cent
general import tax to ease the burden on
foreign films. When the new advisory unit
gets under real headway, a staff will be added
as needed.
Kreisler said he has severed all connection
with International Film Associates, which he
recently organized, and all other business
ties, and will devote his entire time to his
new job.
U. S. Debut
Mrs. Fiank said that special attention
was paid to reactions and behavior of the
children. Behavior, she said, was excellent.
"Tlie children did not wiggle or make
any noise. They did not even leave their
seats to go to the bathroom. Tliat's how
the pictures held their interest."
Jack Smith, manager of the Hollywood
Theatre, said "the reception demonstrates
that there is plenty of room for this type
of film. The youngsters seemed to love
the stuff, and since the product was appealing
to youngsters from the age group
four and up, exhibitors looking to build
children's audiences should welcome this
kind of product," he said.
A preview of the films was presented for
officials of women's clubs, recreational
leaders, principals and teachers from public
and private schools. The subjects were
released by the Rank organization
through the Philadelphia branch of U-I.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 35

1
"FRANCIS is one of the
most delightful comedies
I've ever seen. Only
two actors could've
played the part . . .
Francis and Jack Benny
...and I'm glad the one
with the talent got the
part."
FRED ALLEN
Radio and screen star
'Don't miss FRANCIS! It
has more laughs than a
dozen ordinary comedies."
EVE ARDEN
CBS and screen star
'FRANCIS is a riotous picture.
I was in happy
hysterics all the way
through."
LUCILLE BALL
CBS and scratn tiar
'We have never gotten
more laughs out of a
movie either collectively
or separately and we
have laughed a lot in
our time."
EDGAR BERGEN &
CHARLIE McCarthy
"For the first time in my
life I agree with Fred
Allen . . . FRANCIS is a
hysterically funny pic-
JACK BENNY
CBS star
laughter is our business
so take it from us . . .
FRANCIS is a comedy
that's really funny."
BURNS and ALLEN
CSS sfars
'FRANCIS will
probably
set a laugh record. I
haven't laughed so
much in years."
JOAN DAVIS
CBS and screen star
'FRANCIS is the funniest
character I've seen on
the screen."
JIMMY DURANTE
NBC star
'FRANCIS, the talking
mule, reminds me a lot
of blind dates I've had,
except he's a little better
looking and a lot more
entertaining."
ETHEL MERMAN
Broadway star
'FRANCIS is
I
one picture
recommend most
highly. Mules will
love
it. (And people, too.)"
GROUCHO MARX
CSS and screen star

OMEDY EXPERTS
WAN/MOUS
N LAUGHING THE
PRAISES OFfrancf8
'FRANCIS is so funny he
is giving the comedians
something to worry
about—lucky for me he
can't dance — or can
he?"
RAY BOLGER
Musr'co/ Comedy tta-
'FRANCIS, the talking
donkey, is full of laughs.
This is one donkey even
the Republicans will enjoy
seeing."
BOBBY CLARK
A

. . Gene
. . The
. . . With
^
By
. . Paramount
. . Spring
—
^olUfWWid ^eftont
From Two Studios
Since, by Hollywood custom, two projected
film ventures on the same topic
usually constitute the nucleus of a cycle,
there is evidence that such a cycle is in
the making and embracing the not-sogentle
art of bullfighting.
With Producer-Director Robert Rossen
scheduling an early start, on location in
Mexico, for "The Brave Bulls." which he
is making for Columbia release. MGM also
has become matador conscious. Leo has
acquired "Montes. the Matador." a short
story oy Frank Harris, and will film it in
Technicolor as a Jack Cummings production,
with Ricardo Montalban in the
title
role.
It will be a change of pace for Montalban.
currently portraying a pugilist in
the studio's "Right Cross." Filming is
scheduled to begin later this year.
IVAN SPEAR
for Autry for Columbia release . . .
"Island
in the Sky." novel about the air transport
command by Ernest K. Gann. was acquired
by Robert Stillman Productions, with Gann
booked to collaborate with Seton I. Miller
on the screenplay. It is based on an actual
wartime incident when a transport was
wrecked in uncharted Canadian wastes and
the survivors were rescued by the ATC.
King Vidor to Be Honored
At Venice Film Festival
When the 11th annual Venice Film Festival
gets under way in Italy next summer,
on hand as an interested
observer will be
Megaphonist King Vidor.
who has been no-
. . .
tified that three of his
films will be screened
MGM's Inside Straight'
because of their selection
as "among the
Deals With Gold Rush
most significant and
California's lusty gold rush days will be
valid from the artistic
given screen treatment by MGM in "Inside
viewpoint" to be made
Straight." being scripted by Guy Trosper and
in industry history.
to be produced by Richard Goldstone . . .
They are "The Crowd."
Hal Wallis booked Hal Walker to direct "My
which Vidor directed
Friend Irma Goes West." which he is making
for Paramount release . . . RKO Radio
in 1928: "Hallelujah," King Vidor
1930. and "Our Daily Bread." 193'4. Vidor. handed Stanley Rubin a new writer-producer
ticket, with "The Man He Found" as
currently directing "Lightning Strikes Twice"
Universal-International,
for Warners, will leave for Europe after completing
his first assignment
reactivating its production plans for
that opus and will remain there for
the festival.
"Song of Norway." signed Harry Tugend to
script and produce the Technicolor musical
Philip Yordan and Daniel Puchs
Six Story Sales for Week;
assigned to the screenplay. Samuel Goldwyn's
first 1950 production will be "Billion
Lippert, U-I Pair Each
With Lippert Productions and Universal- Dollar Baby" ticketed Leslie
.
International each accounting for two purchases,
the story market held to a steady "Montana Rides" ... Sol C. Siegel was handed
Fenton to pilot its Technicolor w-estern.
pace during the period, a total of six sales the production reins, and Rose Franken and
having been recorded. Into the Lippert vaults William Brown Meloney the scrivening chores,
went "Okinawa," an original by Jack Gold, on 20th Century-Fox's "No Wedding Ring."
who is also a member of the company's publicity
department, and a sagebrusher, "The
To Use Episodic Method
Bandit Queen." by Ken Bohn . U-1
purchases were "The Desert Hawk" and In 'Queen for a Day'
"Fiddle-Foot." The former, by Aubrey Wisberg
Employment of the episodic technique
and Jack Pollexfen. is an adventure
used in the past in such offerings as "If I
story set in the Arabian desert; the latter,
Had a Million" and. more recently, by the
by Harold Shumate, a comedy laid in the
J. Arthur Rank Organization in "Quartet."
old west . Autry Productions picked
will mark the manufacture of "Queen for a
up "The Mad Sheriff of Sanchez." a historical
story of early California by Jack
Day." to be produced by Robert Stillman for
United Artists release and based on the
Evans, and will film it as a starring subject
radio show of that name.
Stillman will incorporate four short stories
into the feature—the first to be acquired
being "High Diver." by John Ashworth. In
Two Bullfighting Films
addition to the four basic dramatic episodes.
"Queen for a Day" will present six or seven
vignettes based upon actual happenings at
the broadcasts.
Seton I. Miller, a Stillman partner, is doing
the screen treatment and will be the associate
producer.
Wendell Corey to Co-Star
In Lana Turner Feature
Wendell Corey has been borrowed from
Producer Hal Wallis by MGM to co-star with
Lana Turner in "A Life of Her Own" . . .
Scott-Brown Productions (Actor Randolph
Scott and Producer Harry Joe Brown) booked
Rod Cameron and Wayne Morris for the
toplines in "Lost Stage Valley." Technicolor
western which they will make for Columbia
release. It will be an acting holiday for
Scott, who won't appear in it . . . Raymond
Massey joined the cast of Warners' "Sugarfoot"
. . . Borrowed from Hal Roach for two
pictures, William Bendix will co-star first
Jane Russell to Enact
Self in RKO Subject
Capitalizing on her world renown as a
glamor gal and marking the first time
that any star has portrayed herself in
a motion picture based on her own
career. RKO Radio has scheduled "The
Jane Russell Story" as a forthcoming
celluloid entry in the vein first exploited
by Columbia with "The Jolson Story"
although in that one. of course. Jolson
appeared only as a voice and Larry Parks
essayed the role on the screen.
As managing director of production
Howard Hughes is planning to mount the
opus as "the biggest" yet to be undertaken
by RKO Radio since he assumed
control of the company.
Also added to the RKO lineup was
"Tlie Miami Story." to be written and
produced as a package by Jay Dratler.
industry veteran whose last affiliation
was with Warners. In the cops-and-robbers
category, it involves a girl who
thinks her husband has been framed on
a robbery charge by a detective who is
her former sweetheart; as its title indicates,
the action transpires largely in
Miami.
with Victor Mature in RKO Radio's "Alias
Mike Fury" .
Byington draws the
title role in "Louisa" at Universal-International.
Added to the roster of Columbia producers—and
one of the industry's few femme
filmmakers—was Joan Harrison, onetime
associate of Alfred Hitchcock.
Two MGM Films Concern
Indianapolis Speed-way
MGM is fast becoming a western affiliate
of the Indianapolis speedway. In addition
to its Clark Gable starrer. "To Please a
Lady." slated for camera work this month,
Leo has projected a second subject dealing
with the automobile racing dodge.
To be produced by Jack Cummings, the
new one is "Excuse My Dust," a romantic
comedy backgrounded in the early days of
speed and was written by George Wells.
Ah-eady in release, of course, is "The Big
Wheel." another saga of the speedways,
which was produced as a Mickey Rooney
starrer by Harry Popkin. Sam Stiefel and
Jack Dempsey. and which is being distributed
by United Artists.
Republic to Reactivate
'Hit Parade' Musical
It has been three years since Republic
turned out one of its "Hit Parade" musicals
—the last such offering having been manufactured
back in 1947. Now the series has
been reactivated with the assignment of John
H. Auer to produce and direct "Hit Parade
of 1950." tentatively geared for a March
camera start. Utilizing an original story by
Lawrence Kimble and Aubrey Wisberg, "Mike
Was a Lady," as the plot line, the tunefilm
is being scripted by Betty Reinhard.
The film will be Republic's fourth in the
"Hit Parade" niche—early entries having
been made in 1941, 1943 and, as noted above,
1947.
38
BOXOFFICE
:: February 4, 1950

CHESTER FRIEDMAN
EDITOR
HUGH E. FRAZE
Associate Editor
SECTION
PRACTICAL IDEAS FOR SELLING SEATS BY PRACTICAL SHOWMEN
J4Jf.J4.ouded
Recently we observed in this column
that a pessimist is an exhibitor
who looks at his theatre and says,
"It's half empty," while an optimist
would say, "It's half full." As
an observer and as a realist, we
would Uke to add, "Half empty or
half full, it's still only half."
There's a picture titled "12 O'Clock
High" that tells a story of the 918th
group of the Eighth air force. It also
delivers a wonderful gospel: give a
man good leadership, teach him
what to do and how to do it, give
him an organization he can be proud
of—and you provide him with the
incentive he needs to put his heart,
soul and back into his job.
There was a time when everyone
connected with the motion picture
industry, particularly theatremen,
felt exactly that way about their vocation.
It inspired everyone to a
24-hour-a-day effort. It gave everyone
assurance that here was the
greatest business, the greatest leadership,
the greatest opportunity and
the best organization of its kind in
the world. It was a privilege to be
associated with the industry. Working
a 16 or 18-hour a day schedule
with no day off, no vacation, had its
spiritual recompense.
After the '29 crash, regimentation
began to undermine the esprit de
corps of those earlier years. A rigid
budget frequently prevented a manager
from selling an attraction as
experience dictated. Standardized
methods of operation took a deadly
toll on the incentive which had inspired
managers to do things for the
sheer love of doing them.
It took a war to get team spirit
permeating this industry again.
Every bit of manpower was organized
into a unified effort. Victory
was important and everyone played
hard, for keeps. Selflessness, for a
time, was supreme.
With the end of the war, team
spirit again dissolved. Today there
are many "half houses." And despite
the many pleas for vigorous
showmanship, intercircuit "drives"
are becoming increasingly necessary
because inspirational incentive may
be lacking.
The "half houses" are neither by
I Continued on page 42)
Grand Movie Ball Tops
Busy Anniversary Week
The 19th anniversary celebration of the
opening of the Regal Cinema, Beckenham,
Kent, England, was made the occasion for a
special program and promotion by Manager
F. A. Barker. A schedule of events with appeal
to patrons of all tastes and ages was
set up by Barker, who received excellent cooperation
from the local press In bringing
each event to the attention of the public.
Barker contacted the Beckenham Choral
society and the Royce Academy of Music and
Dancing, and arranged for a stage presentation
of the Youth of Beckenham for one
night. A concert by the Beckenham orchestra
attracted additional patronage on another
night during the anniversary week. Units of
the Sea Cadet corps and the Girls Naval
Training corps also participated in the celebration.
Still another night was devoted to an exhibition
of champion players of the district
Table Tennis league. On the same evening,
Reginald New, a popular organist, presented
a concert for Regal patrons.
Each activity led up to the highlight of the
week, a Grand Film Star ball on the final
night. Five motion picture stars made personal
appearances through the intercession
of C. J. Latta, managing director of Associated
British Picture Corp.. and D. J. Goodlatte
of Associated British Cinemas. Ltd. At
the star ball, the guests were received by the
mayor and his wife of Beckenham on the
theatre stage, following a special birthday
dinner at the Regal restaurant.
Additional publicity was received by virtue
of the fact that Barker invited old people
from the SOS society's home in Beckenham
to an afternoon theatre performance and to
tea afterwards.
Special film shows were arranged for children,
and each event was covered by newspaper
stories and art in county and district
publications. Tlieatre promotion included a
display of streamers advertising the various
events, panels throughout the foyer, special
linen banners, the sale of anniversai-y programs
and film ball tickets, slides on the
screen and personal announcements from the
stage each night for a week in advance.
Window cards were placed in strategic location.s.
The outer theatre was decorated
with festooned colored lights promoted from
the electricity board at no charge. Bunting
and flags including large Union Jack stars
and stripes etc.. were borrowed from the local
council for additional flash out front. A
neighborhood florist decorated the vestibule,
restaurant and orchestra pit each day with
fresh cut flowers and plants in return for a
credit card.
A Beckenham caterer provided a huge anniversary
cake, topped by a confectionery display
of the theatre in miniature. Placed in
the lobby, a sign nearby announced that the
cake would be presented to the children's
ward of Beckenham hospital.
Cooperation from merchants was obtained
in publicizing the anniversary presentation,
and extra business resulted.
BOXOFFICE Showrmandiser Feb. 4, 1950 —33— 39

LL
lillliiPillilPB""'''''^^
FOR THE LOVE OF MIKi
i-t
A GREAT
BOOK BECOMES
A GREATER
^
PICTURE!
7/
'rt
in
DICK POWELL EVELYN KEYES
MRS. MIKE"with J. M. KERRIGAN -ANGELA CLARKE
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER SAMUEL BISCHOFF • PRODUCER EDWARD GROSS
DIRECTED BY LOUIS KING • Screenploy by Alfred Lewis Levitt and DeWitt Bodeen
Based on the novel by Benedict and Nancy Freedman
PRESENTED BY NASSOUR STUDIO IN ASSOCIATION WITH HUNTINGTON HARTFORD

^^)WHArBUSIMeSS!
^/ -^>. ^?
IN PITTSBURGH, BUFFALO ,
SAN FRANCISCO, BALTIMORE,
DAYTON, AKRON, SEATTLE -
WHEREVER THIS GREAT PIC-
TURE IS
PLAYING-OPENING
DAY BUSINESS EQUALS OR
TOPS ANYTHING UNITED
ARTISTS HAS RELEASED
IN YEARS!
.
-^...^....^^^^^^^^^^^^^
m
m^
In Vancouver, despite worst snowfall in
history, the picture established two house
records and in three other Canadian
engagements, doubled average grosses!
[Masterful -no other description can suffice!," says Boxoffice, and masterful, too, is the business thru UAl

IP
FOR THE LOVE OF MIKi
1^'^
A GREAT
BOOK BECOMES
A GREATER
PICTURE!
yi\'>
4
^^-
EVELYN KEYES
in"MRS. MIKE"with J. M. KERRIGAN • ANGELA CLARKE
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER SAMUEL BISCHOFF • PRODUCER EDWARD GROSS
DIRECTED BY LOUIS KING Screenplay by Alfred Lewis Levitt and DeWitt Bodeen
Based on the novel by Benedict and Nancy Freedman
PRESENTED BY NASSOUR STUDIO IN ASSOCIATION WITH HUNTINGTON HARTFORD
DICK POWELL
, -i)
-/'i

k^)WHMr eusiMessil
IN PITTSBURGH, BUFFALO .
SAN FRANCISCO. BALTIMORE,
SEATTLE -
DAYTON, AKRON ,
WHEREVER THIS GREAT PIC-
PLAYING-OPENING
TURE IS
DAY BUSINESS EQUALS OR
TOPS ANYTHING UNITED
ARTISTS HAS RELEASED
IN YEARS!
,
k^^M
In Vancouver, despite worst snowfall in
history, the picture established two house
records and in three other Canadian
engagements, doubled average grosses!
lasterful-no other description can suffice!," says Boxoffice, and masterful, too, is the business thru UA!

Studio Technicians
Put 'Woman Hiding'
In the Limelight
Theatre Collects Dolls
At Shrine-Aided Show
A special Christmas show at the Centui-y
Theatre. Hamilton, Ont., provided almost
1,000 underprivileged youngsters with dolls.
Mel JoUey, manager, persuaded the Shriners
to sponsor the show at which admission was
a doll. The dolls were turned over to the
Red Feather services for distribution.
JoUey put up ten theatre gift books as
prizes for the best dolls contributed. The
Shriners mailed notices to members urging
that they get behind the promotion. Many
did by inserting notices in their newspaper
ads. The newspapers and radio commentators
were generous with publicity.
Flash Lobby Display
John Payne Engineers
Hometown Publicity
At 'China' Premiere
Sheet ballyhoo for "Woman in Hiding" in
Buffalo had wroman riding transit lines with a
traveling bag, suitably lettered with theatre
copy.
Hollywood personalities who appear behind
the production scenes took part in an intensive
promotion developed for the world
premiere of "Woman in Hiding" at the
Lafayette Theatre in Buffalo. The campaign
was carried out by the publicity department
of Universal-International, with on-the-scene
assistance from Bill Brereton, ad-publicity
manager of the Lafayette.
The trio of Hollywood technicians—Bud
Westmore, makeup and hairdressing expert;
Joan St. Oegger, hair stylist, and Yvonne
Wood, fashion designer—were featured in a
fashion show at the Oppenheim Collins department
store two weeks prior to the opening
of "Woman in Hiding." The store used
large newspaper ads and displayed special
window cards playing up the appearance of
the experts from Hollywood. More than 500
women attended the fashion show, making
newspaper headlines the day before opening.
The trio appeared on several Buffalo radio
programs, and each was interviewed by the
newspapers. Station WEBR conducted a
"Woman in Hiding" mystery voice contest.
In this connection, the station used a transcription
of the voice of Peggy Dow who
makes her debut as a screen actress in the
picture. Guest tickets to the Lafayette were
awarded the contest winners.
Station WBEN tied in with the national
hookup via the Wildroot Cream Oil program
featuring Sam Spade and Howard Duff,
the latter co-starred in "Woman in Hiding."
The station supplied posters for distribution
in drug stores and barber shops
and at the theatre, tieing in the Sam Spade
program with the picture playdates.
For street ballyhoo, Brereton engaged a
girl to travel around the city on the surface
transit lines, carrying a suitcase lettered
with copy to the effect that she was the
"Woman in Hiding" and could be seen at
the Lafayette Theatre.
Costs Ten Shillings
At a cost of less than ten shillings, a novel
display piece created by K. P. Kelsall, manager
of the Palladium Cinema, Oldham, England,
did a fine selling job for "It's Magic."
A background was created against the entire
main wall from crepe paper. A large
music scale was reproduced from tubing. Cutouts
of various instruments, borrowed from a
shopkeeper, were displayed against the scale.
At both sides, large music notes were placed
in various positions. The notes were flittered
with metallics and had color heads of the
stars in the picture in the center. Across the
top, another music scale was fronted by cutout
letters in metallics spelling out the title.
A speaker concealed behind the center of
the display played records of song hits heard
in the film production and added considerable
attraction to the display. The leading
record shop exhibited posters and signs plugging
the dates and plugged nimabers from the
picture. Windows were also promoted via a
tieup with the distillers of a popular wine.
0^ '.^\iir^,isimu^^:.}^'',^.s^ssmim%

Top Schinemen Exploit
Local 7wo Jima Slants
Schine circuit theatremen pulled all stops
to exploit "Sands of Iwo Jima" in New York
upstate communities. At Little Falls, Nick
Kauffman, manager of the Rialto, injected
local interest in the campaign by tieups with
patriotic and civic groups, and engaged the
cooperation of local recruiting officers.
A former usher of the Rialto serving as
a reserve fighter pilot and two of his buddies
used part of their flying time to ballyhoo
the picture with combat maneuvers over
the town on Saturday before opening. Local
radio stations used the marine corps angle
to play up the flag-raising sequence depicted
in the film production, around a special program
of martial music including the marine
hymn.
PATRIOTIC POSTERS USEFUL
Patriotic organizations throughout the
community displayed posters with theatre
copy, and members and officers were contacted
via personal letters to inform them
of the pla.ydates. School authorities made
bulletin boards available for special art posters.
A coloring contest, with prizes promoted
from local merchants, was used to
stimulate kid interest, viath awards made
for the best entries on Saturday before
opening.
Marine personnel visited editors of the
local papers, both daily and weekly, providing
the basis for colorful stories published
along with full credits for the theatre playdates.
PTA groups, mothers clubs. Scout
organizations and the YMCA and YWCA
all tied in thiough personal contacts and
posters displayed at organization headquarters.
Window promotions ran the full gamut
from music to guns, all tied in with the
opening.
At the Paramount in Syracuse, Manager
Dick Feldman screened "Sands of Iwo Jima"
for all marines in the area, prospective
enlistees in the reserve, newspaper and radio
representatives and executives with the Veterans
administration. Marine corps A-boards
throughout the Syracuse area were sniped
with copy plugging the Paramount playdates.
The mayor of Syracuse issued a proclamation
on Marine month, and every local
radio station came through with allout plugs
for both the marine recruiting drive and the
picture, all gratis.
GUARD DELIVERS PRINT
The print of the picture was delivered to
the theatre on opening day by a color guard
with motorcycle escort. Newspaper photographers
were on hand to cover the fanfare.
Prominent store windows were given
over to displays of marine accoutrements.
The marine hymn was used as the basis
for obtaining window displays with music
shops and getting free plugs from disk jockeys
on all local radio stations. The marines
provided a display of medals for the theatre
lobby, a Red Cross mobile unit used by
the blood bank was parked in front of the
theatre opening day, and window cards were
distributed to all pubhc and branch libraries,
book shops and book counters of
department stores.
For street ballyhoo, two marine trucks were
converted into perambulating billboards. A
coloring contest was set up throughout the
school system. As a final touch to the campaign,
two Japanese flags captured on Iwo
Jima were placed above the marquee opening
day of the picture, and several marine
heroes of Iwo Jima and Tarawa were introduced
to the opening day audience on the
Paramount stage.
George Pugh, manager of the Rialto Theatre,
Glens Falls, conducted another effective
campaign which was launched at a luncheon
meeting with the ranking marine officer in
the area and Ed Frink of radio station
WGLN, a former marine. Through Prink,
an ABC network program featuring John
Wayne as guest star which was broadcast on
January 17 had live spot plugs for the Rialto
showing of "Sands of Iwo Jima" at the beginning
and end of the program. The following
day, three Marine heroes of Iwo Jima
were honor guests at a Kiwanis luncheon
for the purpose of making a special pitch
for the picture.
A photograph of the mayor of Glens Falls
signing an Iwo Jima day proclamation was
taken by newspaper photographers and run
in late editions of the paper. In connection
with the vaudeville show on January 20,
Major Button of the marine corps made a
personal appearance on the stage and provided
a strong plug for the picture to a
capacity audience.
MARINE WEAPONS DISPLAYED
Marine equipment was exhibited in front
of the theatre in advance and during the
current showing of the picture. On opening
night, holders of the Silver Cross, Gold Star
Mothers and disabled veterans of the marines
living in Glens Falls were introduced
from the stage. The theatre front was converted
into a sensational flash through an
unusual centerpiece. A real flag was mounted
into a cutout of four marines with arms
upstretched, while a concealed motor raised
it up and down. A coloring contest promoted
in cooperation with the local school
system also helped to focus attention on the
picture booking.
At Oneonta, N. Y., Norman Prager, manager
of the Oneonta Theatre, arranged a
lobby display of marine corps equipment, a
recruiting booth and a six-sheet cutout with
a real flag substituted for the illustration.
The flag was animated by an electric fan.
Before the trailer was screened, the show
was stopped while a recording of the marine
hymn was played over the public address
system. Opening day was proclaimed
as Iwo Jima day, and a full-page cooperative
ad was set as a salute to the marines, coincident
with the proclamation. All marine
recruiting programs on local radio stations
carried transcriptions of interview records
with marines who had served in the Iwo
Jima campaign.
A strategically located window in the shopping
section of town was promoted for a
display of Japanese souvenirs, and all business
firms in the downtown area displayed
window cards saluting the man of Oneonta
who had served at Iwo Jima.
His Week's Ad Budget
Used on 'Stable' With
Excellent Effect
To focus extra attention on "Come to the
Stable," Bob O'Regan, owner-manager of the
Twin Theatre, Waynesville, Ohio, devoted his
entire week's newspaper space to plugging
this one attraction. This unusual method of
presentation compensated for itself. Large
crowds were attracted to "Stable" booking,
and they learned of the other midweek bookings
by trailers and the usual lobby displays.
To further hypo interest, O'Regan mailed
post cards to all religious leaders and organizations
in the area.
O'Regan uses 2,500 monthly calendar cards
which are mailed to all rural areas. The cards
are consecutively numbered and each month
25 lucky-number holders are awarded passes.
O'Regan reports that when he took over the
Twin Theatre two years ago, a small plain
card listed the month's attractions. He decided
on using a larger card on the theory
that it was more of an eye-catcher and would
provide him with an opportunity to use mats
on top attractions. He also introduced on the
card advertising space for merchants which
not only defrays the entire cost but wins
goodwill because the businessmen find it effective.
The calendar cards have been used
by schools, the local ball club, etc., in addition
to merchants.
A recent innovation which is proving successful
in attracting extra business to the
theatre is a family weekly ticket. These tickets
must be purchased in advance, and for
$2.50 every member of the immediate family
is entitled to attend every show at the Twin
Theatre during the succeeding week.
$50 Stork Derby Prize
Promotes 'And Baby'
A Stork derby promoted by Ed Pyne, manager
of the RKO 105th Street Theatre^ Cleveland,
and sponsored by a neighborhood merchant,
stimulated wide publicity for "And
Baby Makes Three." The merchant provided
a prize of $50 to the first couple to become
the parents of triplets during the showing of
the picture at the 105th Street Theatre.
The announcements were advertised in newspapers,
at the theatre and on the sponsor's
premises for a week in advance.
With competition increasing from neighborhood
theatres which offer free parking
facilities to patrons, P>Tie recently consummated
a deal with a nearby parking lot tD
provide space for theatre patrons at reduced
rates. A ticket stub bearing the current
date is accepted by the lot as proper
evidence. In return for the courtesy, the
theatre announces the deal through a 40x60
display which serves as a co-op advertisement
for the parking lot.
Creates Boxoifice 'Rib'
Lou Puhrmann, manager of the Arcade in
Cambridge, Md., created an attractive display
on "Adam's Rib." Directly over the
boxoffice, large cutout heads of Katharine
Hepburn and Spencer Tracy were displayed,
with their hands holding a real part of pants
between them. Copy read, "Who wears the
pants in your family?"
44 -38— BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Feb. 4, 1950

1
wi
EVER W/»»! ^ k^
Remember
These Famous
"^d^-And The
Crowds Who
•oved Them!
mmm
mmm
mcoBB
'^"°l(^e UTILE RASC&t^.
rt$ TODAY/

Courtesy, Service, Enterfainment,
Key Wometco Drive for Business
Business may be off a trifle, according to
Col. Mitchell Wolfson, co-owner with Sidney
Meyer of the Wometco circuit in Florida,
but there is no reason for Wometco employes
not to provide patrons with the utmost
in service, courtesy and consideration.
Wolfson recently addressed managers of
the circuit through a letter explaining that
the Wometco enterprise was built on a foundation
of courtesy and cordiality. Courtesy,
service and entertainment will be the slogan
for rebuilding business and attracting new
patronage to the Miami theatres.
With Arthur Price, exploitation director for
the circuit's subsequent run theatres,
spearheading the drive, managers are busy
lining up extensive campaigns and promotions
aimed at building grosses.
Gene Race, manager of the Cameo Theatre,
Miami Beach, developed an idea that
created plenty of attention for his booking
of "Miss Grant Takes Richmond" and helped
to cement good relations with local high
school students.
Race had 3,000 cards imprinted with consecutive
numbers in sets for boys and girls.
These were distributed to students with instructions
for them to wear them and try
to find someone of the opposite sex with
the corresponding number. Couples who succeeded
in pairing the matching numbers
were treated to free eats at a hamburger
specialty shop and a free show at the Cameo.
The cards included complete details of the
tieup with mention of the picture playdates,
providing Race with 3,000 walking advertisements
for his show. The restaurant
shared the cost of the cards and supplied
Girl Mimics Jolson
A La Larry Parks
Harold Bignall, assistant manager of the
Sterling (III.) Theatre, carried out an idea
suggested by projectionist Earl Keiser, which
stimulated boxoffice receipts on "Jolson Sings
Again." Bignall had a young woman appear
on stage prior to the running of the "Jolson"
trailer, mimicking facial and body
movements in accompaniment to Jolson records.
The woman was made up in blackface,
her pantomime closely following the songs
as they were amplified over the house public
address system. Between songs, the playdates
were plugged over a microphone hookup.
The stunt was well received by the
audience.
Bignall also arranged a loudspeaker unit
on the marquee canopy so that people passing
the vicinity could hear records and spot
plugs of picture tunes and playdates.
Promotes 'Jima' Co-Op
Stanley Blackburn, manager of the Orpheum
Theatre, Omaha, promoted a fullpage
newspaper ad in the Omaha World
Herald on "Sands of Iwo Jima." Rank's, an
army-navy store, featured the ad in connection
with a special sale.
the food to W'inners as its share of the tieup.
P>rice completed a tieup for the Cameo
Theatre which resulted in the outright sale
of 1,000 tickets to the Pood Fair, a leading
market in the community. The store purchased
the tickets for a showing of "Christopher
Columbus" and distributed them to
children who accompanied their parents on
a shopping trip to the store. The youngsters
had to present a color sketch of a
scene from the picture which had been previously
distributed via a printed herald,
According to Price, the 1,000 kids were accompanied
by their parents accounting for
additional revenue.
Harvey Fleischman, district manager for
the Wometco suburban theatres, directed
managers under his supervision to use a
reminder stunt for "Pinky." Theatre doormen
distributed pieces of string as patrons
entered the lobby. A trailer was flashed
on the screen advising people in the audience
to tie the string around their fingers
to remind them of the "Pinky" playdates.
Fleischman conducts exploitation meetings
each week with managers taking over the
chairmanship on a rotation basis. At a recent
meeting called for the purpose of discussing
campaigns for "Prince of Foxes"
many suggestions were adopted.
Some of the ideas to be incorporated Into
the campaigns: albums with stills and captions
for lobby use, bookmarks for distribution
at schools and libraries; displays of
fencing weapons, etc., manager's personal
endorsement letters and street ballyhoos consisting
of mounted riders dressed in medieval
armor.
Newspaper Sponsors
Contest on 'Forsyte'
Builds 'Savage' Front
Fred Lentz, manager of the Athena Theatre
in Athens, Ohio, used an attractive atmospheric
front to exploit "I Married a Savage."
A banner was constructed across the front
featuring an art display and large cutout
title. Side pieces featured cutouts and stills.
Admiral Distributor
And WMPS Assist
'Port' at Memphis
The outstanding promotion arranged by
James McCarthy, manager of the Warner
Theatre in Memphis, in behalf of "Port of
New York," was a two-way tieup with radio
station WMPS and the local Admiral radio
distributor. The station conducted a twoweek
contest for the best answers to the
question, "What was your most exciting moment?"
with Admiral furnishing radios as
prizes. The contest resulted in dozens of
air plugs daily. Elaborate still displays and
credit cards were set with every Admiral outlet
in town.
Additional radio promotion included announcements
during the Sugar Bowl football
game, and plugs on every local station
for a full week prior to opening. Newspaper
cooperation was excellent, with special features
in addition to art and story breaks
on the amusement pages.
Two hundred cards were suitably spotted
around town, with copy :"The Port of Memphis
salutes 'Port of New York.' See, etc."
A fine window display in the local Braniff
Airlines office featured stills and a card
reading, "A Braniff ticket can speed you
to the 'Port of New York,' etc."
Over 5,000 "wanted" heralds were distributed
prior to opening, and a special front
was built for current use, with blowups of
action stills from the pictm-e, and the title
spread across an overhead panel.
Window Tieups in England C
Assist 'Fountainhead'
Two department store window displays in
Lewisham, England, exploited "The Fountainhead"
for A. A. Owen, manager of the Prince
of Wales Cinema. One of the windows tied
in with the Jane Powell dress shop, the other
was set with a doll's house. The latter was
an important tieup since the doll's house, a
hospital for toys, had figured in a press article
and had been photographed by Pathe
News. Curious persons who came to see the
shop had an opportunity to look over the display
plugging "The Fountainhead" at the
Pi'ince of Wales.
Owen tied up with Blindell's toy shop for
F. S. Falkenburg, manager of the Alabama
Theatre in Birmingham, and Emery Austin,
exploiteer for MGM, promoted a newspaper
contest on "That Forsyte Woman" which
received wide local publicity. The Birmingham
News sponsored the contest and publicized
it daily, both in advance and current. a display on games which helped "Any Number
Can Play."
The contest was open to persons who saw
"That Forsyte Woman" at the Alabama A front-page picture and story in the
Theatre. Contestants were required to write Lewisham Journal and Borough News commended
Owen recently for collecting toys for
a letter in 50 words or less, giving their opinion
of "That Forsyte Woman." A plane trip needy children prior to the holiday season.
to Hollywood was promoted for the winner, Owen's appeal to patrons of the theatre was
reservations at a Hollywood hotel, a visit to accompanied by a display of a Christmas
the MGM studios and a sight-seeing tour of tree in the theatre lobby as a collection
Hollywood.
point. The tree was presented to the children
at Lewisham hospital by the mayoress.
Lily May Caldwell, critic for the Birmingham
News, accompanied the winner to Hollywood,
covering the complete trip, which received
additional publicity in the columns of
Bookings on Page One
the newspaper.
Bill Shelton, manager of the Loulsburg
(N.C.) Theatre, has his entire week's attractions
listed on the front page of the Franklin
News, county weekly, through a cooperative
tieup with the publisher. Once each week
the publisher receives a pair of passes, in return
for which the theatre listings are published
every week under a special heading,
"On the Screen." Tlie paper has a circulation
of 2,000 and reaches most of the families
throughout the Louisburg district.
46 —40— BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Feb. 4, 1950

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Come to one of the world's greatest convention
cities! Enjoy the New Orleans
Carnival Spirit for four gala days! The
loco! committee is setting up a program
of entertainment that will top all previous
W^
conventions of the men who make up
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Newspaper Features
Twin Contest Which
Showman Set Up
A newspaper contest developed around a
human interest angle netted front-page publicity
and art spreads for three months in
the West Memphis News for Bruce Young,
manager of the Crittenden Theatre, West
Memphis, Ark.
Young decided that there must be quite a
number of twins in and around the community.
He contacted the editor of the West
Memphis News, sold him on the human interest
angle, obtained his full cooperation and
launched an enterprise to make the citizens
of the community aware of all the twins
in the area.
The local photographer agreed to take pictures
of all the twins who registered. From
the photographs, newspaper cuts were made
and each week the paper ran a large cut
of the Twins of the Week. At the same time,
Young used a short trailer picturing the
Twins of the Week. Interest in the contest
grew to a point where everyone in town
watched the paper, and entries poured in
from town and county. Local merchants
donated prizes so that every entrant received
a free gift.
As a final climax. Young and the newspaper
will have a party for all twins in the
area, at which time motion pictures will be
taken of the group for exhibition on the
Crittenden screen.
TV and Radio Broadcast
Ballyhoo 'Iwo Jima'
Local publicity developed around veterans
of the Iwo Jima campaign exploited "Sands
of Iwo Jima" for Warren Butler, manager
of the Lyric Theatre, Salt Lake City. Butler
invited 70 veterans of the campaign to be
guests on opening night with their wives.
They were seated in a reserved seat section.
The invitation was widely publicized by the
press and radio commentators.
A five-minute television broadcast was
promoted over KDYL-TV featuring two
brothers, both marines, who met on Iwo Jima
while looking for each other's grave marker.
The brothers were also starred on a 15-
mlnute radio show from the stage of the
Lyric on opening night.
An advance lobby display and special outside
front was created for the current showing.
Bus cards and bum.per strips on taxis
and privately owned vehicles also helped.
Street Broadcast Plugs
Midnight Spook Show
Elmer DeWitt, manager of the Valentine,
Defiance, Ohio, received help from the announcer
of the WONW Man on the Street
program in exploiting a midnight spook show.
During a special broadcast, the announcer
wore a Frankenstein mask which completely
covered his head and face. Persons were
interviewed in this fashion and a few passes
for interviewees squared the deal. The show
was mentioned several times during the
broadcast. An usher, bandaged from head
to foot like a mummy, stood by during the
broadcast with a sign plugging the dates.
Here's Easter Answer
For What's Cooking?
Theatre managers looking for a good
£aster promotion caji take a tip from a
tieup arranged by Warner Bros, with
the toy department of Macy's in New
York.
By special arrangement with the distributor,
the store will feature Bugs
Bunny in person from March 18 to April
15. Bugs will be impersonated by an
actor in a special bunny costume. Children
visiting the store prior to the
Easter holiday will be presented to Bugs
Bunny and have their photographs
taken with him, similar to the Santa
promotions around Christmas time.
Macy's is devoting a considerable
portion of its sales campaign on
Easter toys towards the promotion of
commercial products utilizing various
Warner Bros. ca

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The YEAR BOOK Contains:
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in 1949, together with credits, running time of the picture
with Film Daily review date . released since 1920 .
World-wide statistics of importance to the entire industry.
AND 1,001
OTHER IMPORTANT FEATURES
* * * *
1950
32nd E D I T I O N OF
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P R EPARATION
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Contractor saves penalty of $500
- by investing $3.84 in Air Express
Time clause in housing project paving contract stood good chance of being invoked
when equipment broke down at 5 p.m. So 10-lb. carton of replacement parts was
Air Jixpressed from 1200 miles away. Delivered in just 8 hours. The Air Express
charge was only S3.8 t~and contractor completed job on time
$3.84 Is small indeed, since it covers
door-to-door service. Anytime delivery,
7 days a week. Makes the world's fastest
shipping service the most convenient.
Air Express goes by Scheduled Airlines;
extra dependability, experienced handling.
Shipments keep moving. Regular
use keeps any business moving.
Only Air Express gives you all these advantages
World's fastest shipping service.
Special door-to-door service at no extra cost.
One-carrier responsibility all the way.
1150 cities served direct by air; air-rail to 22,000 oflF-airline offices.
Experienced Air Express has handled over 25 million shipments.
Because of these advantages, regular use of Air Express pays. It's your best air
shipping buy. For fastest shipping action, phone Air Express Division, Railway
l!-xpress Agency. (Many low commodity rates in eflFect. Investigate )
Baltimore Air Waves
Filled With Music
For 'On the Town'
Extensive radio promotion, local tleups and
ballyhoo were used for "On the Tovm" by
Jack Sidney, publicity manager for the Century
Theatre, Baltimore. Sidney connected
for free plugs via spots and contests on the
Musical Clock program. Afternoon Carousel,
Nocturne and the Friendly Neighbor programs,
all aired on WCAO. The station also
used the Ann Miller interview transcription
the day before opening and an interview
recording of Gene Kelly and Vera-Ellen on
opening day.
Station WITH provided gratis plugs on its
Wake Up, Baltimore and Hall of Hits shows.
The Morning in Maryland program over
WFBR used daily spots on a three-hour
morning show in advance and currently.
Station WBMD used spot announcements
and contests on the Mickey Fox show and
Happy Johnny show, with frequent mention
of the picture playdates.
The Baltimore Evening Sun, Sunday Sun,
Sunday American and News Post provided
advance and current art breaks to create
advance interest in the film dates. Readers
were also promoted in the Jewish Times, the
Art and the Home News.
A large electrically lighted cutout display
was used three weeks in advance in the theatre
lobby, and attractive display boards
covered the transoms over the outer doors
exiting from the Century Theatre.
Sidney tied up with the Baltimore News
Co. via the Screen Stories magazine
front cover of the January issue which pictures
the stars of "On the Town." Fifteen
trucks making daily deliveries in the city and
suburbs were bannered with signs tieing in
the magazine cover with the theatre playdates.
The news company also distributed
200 window cards at newsstands and railroad
and bus stations.
A special throwaway herald was imprinted
for distribution, the entire cost underwritten
by a merchant ad. Ten thousand of these
heralds were put out during the week prior
to opening. Two thousand table tents saturated
bars and restaurants in the downtown
area of Baltimore.
THE
MOST NOVING
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c
50
—44— BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Feb. 4, 1950

ik
Experts Exchange Ideas on Showmanship
20fh-Fox Parley on Film Selling Attended by Top Theatre Ad-Publicity Directors
Some of the country's top theatre advertising and publicity
directors attended the second merchandising conference
of its kind calle'd by 20th Century-Fox in New York
lost week. The experts heard 20th-Fox executives discuss
film selling problems. Executives of other distributor companies
and several exhibitor leaders also took part in the
discussions. Two Canadian circuits were represented.
Scenes at the meeting are reproduced on this page.
Left to right: Larry Graburn, Odeon Theatres, Canada; James R. Nairn,
Famous Players Canadian; Sam Glasier, 20th-Fox, Canada; J. Knox
Strachan, Warner Theatres, Ohio; Everett Callow, Warner Theatres,
Philadelphia. At right Norris Hadaway, Wilby-Kincey Theatres.
Greensboro, N. C, Emit Bernstecker, Paramount Wilby Theatres, Atlanta;
Emmett Rogers, Tivoli Theatre, Chattanooga.
E. E. Whilaker, Georgia Theatres, Atlanta, Harry Ballance, 20th-Fox,
Atlanta; Tommy Read, Lucas and Jenkins, Atlanta; Paul Wilson, 20th-
Fox, Atlanta; J. C, Hunter, Talbot Theatres, Tulsa. At right, Nick
Matsoukas, Skouras Theatres, New York; Edgar Goth, Fabian circuit,
HornsDurg, Pa. Walter Higgins, Prudential Theatres, New York; Paul
Levi, American Theatres, Boston; Horry Browning, New England
Theatres, Boston, Lou Brown, Loew's Theatres, New Haven; Phil Engel,
20th-Fox, Boston; Jonas Rosenfeld, 20th-Fox, New York.
lohn Mahon, Penn Paramount TheaL-es, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.; Roger Rice,
Video Theatres, Oklahoma City; Harry Mandel, RKO Theatres, New
York; Ernie Em.erling, Loew's Theatre, New York; Seymour Morri.

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1305-07 Vine St., Philadelphia 7, Pa.

'
Tom Thumb Wedding Stimulates
Theatre Goodwill and Revenue
Any off night can be converted into a
boxoffice bonanza and at the same time put
the theatre's participation in community affairs
in the limelight, according to Delmar
Sherrill. assistant manager of the Playhouse
Theatres, Statesville, N. C. He also
handles the advertising and publicity chores
for Statesville Theatre Corp., headed by
Fuller Sams.
There is no doubt that Sherrill's promotion
comes under the heading of public relations
since it engaged students from three
grade schools in the community, helped to
refurbish their library record fund and attracted
1,600 parents to the 1,000-seat Playhouse
via advance sale of tickets.
The stunt itself was a Tom Thumb stage
wedding. It was staged with all the pageantry,
dignity and decorum, of a real wedding,
with teachers serving as advisers. About
135 first and second grade pupils participated
in the elaborate proceedings. Boys
were dressed in tuxedos, the girls in formal
attire. A vested choir from the Avery Sherrill
school, more than 50 voices and two
soloists provided an appropriate music background.
The advance sale of tickets was handled
m^^
for an early, profitable
DRIVE-IN playdate!
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54 —48— BOXOFFICE Showmandiser Feb. 4, 1950

: February
TOA Group to
Meet
On COMPO, Taxes
NEW YORK—Further discussion of the
attitude of the Theatre Owners of America
toward COMPO will take place March
1 and 2 at a meeting of the executive
committee to be held at the Astor hotel.
Recently the committee delayed approval
pending further discussion of the method
on financing. There has been some objection
from regional units to the proposed
10-cent assessment on each $100 of
film rentals. The executive committee can
make recommendations to regional units.
A final draft of a suggested code of fair
trade practices also will be presented for
discussion.
Gael Sullivan, executive director, will
report upon his recent conferences in
Washington on hearings to be held before
the house ways and means committee.
TOA representatives will appear at these
hearings to present their arguments for
elimination of the 20 per cent ticket tax.
Two other topics scheduled for discussion
will be a budget for theatre television
headings before the FCC and the
selection of a city for the next TOA annual
convention.
Jersey Thealre Group
Joins Tax Campaign
NEW YORK—Every theatre in New Jersey
will show the antitax trailer and there will
be a committee in each of the 14 congressional
districts to contact congressmen for
the purpose of pointing out the discriminatory
nature of the ticket tax. This was decided
upon at a meeting of the Federation
of New Jersey Theatre Owners held Tuesday
(311 in Newark.
The federation was formed about two years
ago to weld ITOA, Allied of New Jersey. TOA
of New Jersey and unaffiliated theatres into
a statewide unit to combat adverse legislation.
All theatres will also show one-sheets
and will have petition cards and other material
to be furnished by COMPO.
The following chairmen have been appointed
for the various congressional districts:
First, Joe Varbalow and sam Frank; second.
Bill Hunt, Frank Waxman and A. Vani:
third, Pete Gage: fourth, Ed Saiderman and
Frank Hildinger: fifth, Ed Lachman and Pete
Gage: sixth, Irving DoUinger and Don Jacocks;
seventh, Frank Fowler and Joe Lefkowitz:
eighth. Maury Miller and Gary
Voorman: ninth, Maury Stahl and Tony Williams;
tenth. Harold Wiedenhorn and Walter
Jacobs, eleventh, Jerome Kridel and Murray
Scharf; tw^elfth, George Gold, Lito Hill and
Sam Engelman, thirteenth, Ed Batlan and
Jack Fields, and fourteenth, Al Margolies
and Jim Kolbeck.
Present at the Newark meeting were Maury
Miller, president of TOA of New Jersey:
George Gold, Allied of New Jersey: Morton
Sunshine, ITOA; Pete Gage, Walter Reade
Theatres: Frank Damis and Harry Goldberg,
Warner Bros, theatres; Harold Blumenthal.
Fabian Theatres, and William Phillip.s.
Loew's, Inc.
BOXOFTICE ;
MMPTA Pledges to Pass
Any Tax Cut to Patrons
NEW YORK—Owners of both Broadway
downtown theatres and neighborhood theatres
said Monday (30i that if the federal admissions
tax is repealed they will pass on the
saving to their patrons. They went on record
at a meeting of the Metropolitan Motion Picture
Theatres Ass'n, which completed plans
to use trailers calling attention to the unfairness
of the tax and asking patrons to write
their representatives in Congress pleas for
repeal, which, it was estimated, would save
New York patrons $37,200,000 annually.
Emanual Frisch. owner of theatres in
Brooklyn and Queens and chairman of the
MMPTA federal tax committee, said the entertainment
dollar of patrons is limited and
that the tax is "slowly pricing the necessity
of relaxation and entertainment out of the
lives of people of low income groups, the
majority of whom have always looked to
motion pictures as their main source of entertainment."
Among those attending the meeting were
Leo Brecher. Oscar A. Doob. Russell V. E>owning.
Harry Goldberg. Sol A. Schwartz. Harold
Klein. Morton Sunshine. Samuel Rcsen. Edward
Rugoff, Fred J, Schwartz. Leslie
Schwartz, Jack Mclnerney, Solomon M.
Strau.sberg, Louis M. Weber, Vernon Hammer,
Peter Fink, Walter Higgins and D. John
Phillips.
The photo shows, front row, left to right:
Leo Brecher, president of MMPTA and
Brecher Theatres: James Mclnerney. United
Paramount Theatres; Emanuel Frisch. Randforce
Theatres: Oscar A. Doob. Loew's Theatres;
Carl Rigrod. Donahue & Coe Advertising
Agency; Louis M. Weber. Skouras Theatres,
and Fred J. Schwartz. Centmy Theatres.
Rear: Peter Pink, City Entertainment
Corp.; D. John Phillips, executive director of
MMPTA; Harry Goldberg, Warner Theatres;
Sam Ro.sen, Fabian Theatres: Leslie Schwartz,
Century Theatres; Walter Higgins, Prudential
Theatres: Morton Sunshine, executive director
of ITOA; Harold Klein, J. J. Theatres; Ernest
Emerling, Loew's Theatres; Solomon M.
Strausberg. Interboro Theatres: O. R. Mc-
Mahon. RKO Theatres; Edw-ard N. Rugoff.
Rugoff and Becker, and James F. Gould
(partially hidden i. Radio City Music Hall.
Ned Depinet Makes Spirited Plea
For Support of COMPO Program
NEW YORK—Ned E.
Depinet. RKO president,
delivered a spirited plea for support
of the Council of Motion Picture Organizations
public relations program and its antitax
campaign at the closing session of the
20th Century-Fox merchandising conference.
He also defended the proposal to collect
one-tenth of one per cent on film rentals
from exhibitors and similar amounts from
distributors as a "painless" means of financing
the new movement.
"The new .spirit permeating our industry
today reminds me of the unity with which
we worked during the war." he said. "The
accomplishments of the War Activities Committee,
in which all of you ladies and gentlemen
played a conspicuous role, are a matter
of history; they are a great satisfaction
to us all, but there's no valid reason to wait
for a war or some other national calamity
to bring about a coalition of worthy purposes.
There's no rea,son why we can't do
it now, and all the time, and that's why all
elements are joining in COMPO."
Depinet said the industry is still faced with
many grave readjustments, legal and financial
problems.
"Not the least of these is public indifference
or open hostility to the motion picture
and its people." he said. "No one group
can be charged with responsibility, and no
one can escape the evil fruits of the situation.
All of us, distributors, exhibitors, advertisers
and publicists, suppliers, producers,
actors, writers, technicians and Investors,
live off the sale of little pieces of cardboard,
into which have been compre.s.sed all our
labors, hopes and ambitions, called theatre
tickets. When they fail to sell, we all suffer.
We all have a stake in progress and an
equal share in failure."
Depinet asserted that public relations are
the problem of every individual in the industry.
4. 1950 N 55

. . Richard
. . Robert
. . Mervyn
. . Sam
. . William
. . Hugh
. .
. . Cy
. . Bob
. .
. .
: February
BROADWAY
.
.
f^harles Skouras, president of Fox West
Coast Theatres, left for Los Angeles
S. H. Fabian, president of Fabian Theatres,
is vacationing in Florida P.
Rodgers, MGM vice-president and general
sales manager, will return Monday from a
.
holiday at Miami Beach Owen,
Paramount division manager, held sales
meetings at the Boston and New Haven
branches. Phil Isaacs, his assistant, returned
to New York following the Boston
meet.
William Thomas came in with a print of
the latest Pine-Thomas production, "The
Lawless," which he screened for A. W.
Schwalberg, sales head, and other Paramount
executives
. LeRoy, who
will direct "Quo Vadis" for MGM in Italy
in May, sailed for England where he will
confer with Ben Goetz, who is in charge
of tests for some of the leading characters.
Also to England went Virginia Mayo and
husband, Michael O'Shea; Mary Garden,
former opera star, who appeared in silent
films, and Zinka Milanov . . . Victor Saville,
another director for MGM, left for London
by airplane January 28.
to Florida for vacations. They were to return
in time for "The Guilty Bystander"
cocktail party Monday (6i ... WiUiam B.
Zoellner, head of the MGM reprint and
short subject sales, got back from a threeweek
tour of exchanges
. . . Joel Bezahler,
MGM home office sales executive, returned
from Chicago where he conferred with Burtus
Bishop jr., midwestern sales manager,
1950
James R. Grainger, Republic vice-president,
left for a visit to Boston
Kirby, Warner Bros, southern
. . .
division
John
sales
manager, went to Atlanta February 1 and
will proceed to Charlotte before returning
to New York . . . Lew Kerner, executive
talent director for Samuel Goldwyn, is in
Manhattan to cover theatres, night clubs
and vaudeville
program
in search of players for the
Sid Weiner,
of pictures . . .
formerly with Globe Films in charge of
sales, is now associated with Films International
of America.
Edward Schnitzer, eastern and Canadian
sales manager for United Artists, is on a
tour of exchanges that will take him to
Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Detroit, Washington
and Philadelphia
. Horowitz, Chicago
district manager for Motion Picture
Sales, is in New York for conferences with
Neil Agnew and Charles L. Casanave on
the forthcoming "Volcano."
Donald O'Connor, Yvonne DeCarlo, Patricia
Medina, Lois Andrews, Jackie Coogan
and the group of U-I e.xecuttves and newspaper
men who toured U.S. occupied Germany
for showings of "Francis," returned
on the special plane
Ethel Barrymore,
Francis
MGM star
Chariot . . .
who has been
showseeing in Manhattan for two weeks,
returned to the west coast (3).
Denise Darcel, who has been appearing
in various cities in connection with "Battleground,"
wound up her tour in Boston
and returned to New York . Hope
and wife were at the Waldorf-Astoria a
few days before leaving for Washington .
Ben Washer, film publicist, has opened a
.
.
New York office in the RKO building
Budd Rogers, vice-president of Realart, and
wife celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary
Margie Harte, secretary
January 27 . . . in the Eagle Lion print department,
has announced her engagement to Richard
V. Long Eichman, advertising and
publicity director of Astor Pictures, became
a daddy of an eight-pound baby boy.
.
Alfred Crown, foreign sales manager for
Samuel Goldwyn Productions, returned from Ferguson Given Luncheon
a two-week trip to England, France and Germany
.
Carlson, who has been By Fellow MGM Workers
filming "King Solomon's Mines" for MGM NEW YORK—William R. Ferguson, exploitation
head of MGM, was given a farewell
in Nairobi, South Africa, returned by plane
February 1, accompanied by Robert Surtees luncheon Monday (30) at the Astor hotel
of the production unit . . . Alfred Junge, following his retirement from the company
who will be art director on MGM's "Ivanhoe," after 30 years. Howard Dietz, MGM vicepresident,
flew to Hollywood after arriving from London
presided.
to confer with studio executives on the Guests were Joseph R. Vogel, Charles C.
British filming.
Moskowitz, J. Robert Rubin, Charles M. Reagan,
Sam Seidelman, Edward M. Saunders, Oscar A. Doob,
general foreign manager Ernest Emerling, Silas F. Seadler, John
for Eagle Lion, returned from London by Joseph, Herb Crooker, Tom Gerety, Mel Heymann.
plane
Lippert
L. Lippert, president of
H. M. Mike Simons and Dan
Richey,
Rex Carlton,
Terrell. The latter was named successor to
Productions, came in . . .
president of Laurel Films, left for Ber-
Ferguson recently.
muda and Joseph Lerner, vice-president, went
Richard Walsh to Serve
On Heart Committee
NEW YORK—Richard P. Walsh, international
president of lATSE, will serve as a
member of the national labor committee of
the 1950 campaign of the American Heart
Committee. The $6,000,000 fund-raising drive
will take place during the month of February.
To facilitate labor's support in this
drive, Secretary Maurice J. Tobin, chairman
of the national labor committee of the 1950
campaign, has designated Ralph Wright, assistant
secretary of labor, as his aide.
Edward Schnitzer, UA,
Heart Attack Victim
New York—Edward M. Schnitzer, eastern
and Canadian sales manager for
United Artists, died of a heart attack
Thursday as he boarded a train in Grand
Central station. He was about to leave
on a vacation trip with Vitalis L. Chalis,
a member of the UA board. Schnitzer
was a veteran of 30 years in the film
business and was widely known in the
industry. He was 56 years old.
Brotherhood Awards
Presented to Three
NEW YORK—Barney Balaban, president
of Paramount Pictures; George Murphy,
MGM actor and president of Screen Actors
Guild, and Maxwell Anderson, playwright,
were presented 1950 Brotherhood awards of
the National Conference of Christians and
Jews at a luncheon meeting at the Waldorf-
Astoria hotel February 2. The awards are
presented annually to individuals identified
with the motion picture industry and the
theatre who have helped the cause of building
goodwill and understanding among Protestants,
Catholics and Jews.
Louis Nizer. film attorney, presided at the
luncheon which was attended by 1,000 men
and women of the industry. Nizer first introduced
Madeleine Carroll, New York chairman
of Brotherhood Week who made the presentation
to Murphy, who said he accepted the
award for "all the people in show business."
J. Robert Rubin, vice-president of Loew's,
Inc., general chairman of the Amusement
division of the NCCJ, gave the award to
Anderson. Former Secretary of the Navy
John L. Sullivan, general chairman of Brotherhood
Week, presented the award to Balaban
and noted the latter's contribution to the success
of the Freedom Train.
Ted R. Gamble, national chairman of the
Brotherhood Week committee for the amusement
industry, also spoke.
Others on the dais included:
lack Ahcoate, Leon J Bamberger, Robert Benjamin
Leo Brecher, John Chapman, Dr. Everett R Clinchy
Robert W Coyne, Thomas R, Dash, Howard Dietz
Leopold Friedman, Ned E Depinet, WiUiam German
WiUiam Hawkins, Will H. Hays, Jhmes M. Jerauld
Karry M. Kalmine, Maurice Kann, Malcolm Kingsberg
lock Lawrence, Charles E. Lewis, Robert Mochrie
Charles C. Moskowitz, John J. O'Connor, Edmund
Reek, Herman Rcbbins. Abe Schneider, A. W. Schwalberg,
Fred Schwartz, C J. ScoUard. Sam Sham, Ben
Shiyen, George Skouras, Spyros P. Skouras, Nate B.
Spiiigold, Morion Sunshine, Joseph Vogel, Mo Wax,
Kurt Weil and Max E Youngstein.
Sears and Peskay Aiding
Heart Fund Campaign
NEW YORK—Gradwell L. Sears, president
of United Artists, and Edward J. Peskay, representative
of Harry M. Popkin, producer,
will be honorary chairmen of the Mark Hellinger
Memorial Night Sundays, February 8,
at the Mark Hellinger Theatre. Proceeds go
to the New York heart fund campaign, of
which Mrs. Arthur "Bugs" Baer is general
chairman for 1950.
Popkin's "Champagne for Caesar," co-starring
Ronald Colman and Celeste Holm, will
be the feature attraction for the affair. It
will be a special pre-release showing.
Ed Sullivan is chairman of the entertainment
division for the heart fund campaign.
'Barricade' Release Set
NEW YORK — "Barricade," Warner Bros,
feature starring Raymond Massey, Claude
Rains, Dane Clark, Robert Douglas and Ruth
Roman, is set for national distribution the
week of April 1,
National Board to Confer
NEW YORK—The National Board of Review
of Motion Pictures will hold its annual
conference March 23, 24 at the Hotel McAlpin.
It will mark the 41st anniversary of the
board.
56 BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1950

: February
More PCA Latitude,
Says Wayne Griffin
NEW YORK—Tlie Production Code administration,
lieaded by Josepli Breen. is getting
more cooperative with producers and
Z. WAYNE GRIFFIN
is keeping abreast of the times "by widening
its scope and giving us as much latitude
as possible," according to Z. Wayne
Griffin, director of "Key to the City" for
MGM release. Griffin mentioned his own
film and MGM's "Adam's Rib" and "I Was
a Male War Bride" for 20th Century-Fox
as three pictures containing scenes or dialog
which might have been cut out a few
years ago.
Griffin, who dii'ected his first film. "Family
Honeymoon." for Universal-International
only a year ago, made his second. "Key to
City." under a package deal with MGM.
He now has three properties ready for filming
and hopes to close a multiple-package
deal with some studio for their filming during
the next year. The stories are: "The
Big Moose," "Genius in the House" and "The
Iron Butterfly," all of which are owned by
Griffin Productions of which he is the sole
owner.
"Family Honeymoon" is expected to show
a $600,000 profit for U-I and himself, according
to Griffin. Previously. Griffin had
been a radio producer for 15 years and only
entered the picture business after several
producers had turned down "Family Honeymoon"
and he decided to produce it himself.
Griffin is in New York to attend the
opening of "Key to the City" at Loew's State
and to see new Broadway shows with Mrs.
Griffin. He will return to the coast February
9 to start preparations for filming
"The Big Moose."
Wayne Griifin Plays Host
To Gotham Area Mayors
NEW YORK—The unsung "locality mayors"
of New York City, headed by Vincent R.
Impellitteri. acting in the ab.sence of Mayor
O'Dwyer. were guests of Z. Wayne Griffin.
producer of "Key to the City" at an evening
performance of the picture at Loew's State
Theatre February 1.
Among those who attended were Louis
Zeltner. chief mayor; Sammy Fuchs, the
Bowery; David Katz, Coney Island; Abe Goldstein.
Broadway; Jack Sohn. Brownsville;
Daniel O'Rourke, Park Row; Stanley Sienicki.
Grand Street, and William Ray, Canarsie.
The idea to have an informal convention of
"locality mayors" was inspired by the mayor s
convention in the picture.
MPAA TV Committee Told
Appearance Notices Due
NEW YORK—Member companies of the
Motion Picture Ass'n of America must file
appearance notices with the Federal Communications
commission before February 27
u they want to participate in future commission
hearings on large-screen theatre television.
This was brought out at a meetin;?
of the MPAA television committee Tuesday
(311. which reviewed the history of events
leading up to the hearings. Edward Cheyfitz,
assistant to Eric Johnston, MPAA president,
presided.
Six-Day Vaudeville Bill
Starts at RKO Alhambra
NEW YORK—RKO brought
popular-price
vaudeville back to the Alhambra Theatre,
126 street on Seventh avenue. Friday (3) in
combination with a film. "The Gal Who TooP:
the West." The program will remain througli
February 11. Except for the RKO Palace iri
Times Square, which has been playing i,
weekly combination film and vaudeville program
since last spring, there are no othei'
full weeks of variety programs in New York.
If the Alhambra experiment is successful, thi;
city's vaudeville may be expanded, according
to RKO Theatres officials.
Lux Film Appoints Levine
NEW YORK—Philip Levine has been appointed
New York sales representative of the
Lux Film Distributing Corp. by Bernard Jacon.
vice-president. Levine formerly was
manager and operator of the Burke Theatre
in the Bronx and comes to Lux Film from
Warner Bros. New York exchange.
Films of Nations Moves
NEW YORK—Films of the Nations, Inc.,
has moved to new and larger quarters at 62
West 45th St.
NO PERFORATIONS: 20% More Light and Better Vision
CYCLWAMIC
Custom Screen
Plan New TV Antenna
On the Empire State
NEW YORK—A new, multiple-use television
tower will be built on top of the Empire
State Bldg., tallest building in the w^orld,
for the use of all New York television broadcasting
stations, stretching the skyline 199
feet farther into the sky. The building management
and the National Broadca.sting Co.,
which for 18 years has had exclusive rights
to use the structure for radio and television
broadcasting, closed the agreement January
23.
The American Broadcasting Co. is to begin
immediate removal of its WJZ-TV transmitter
from the Hotel Pierre to the Empire
State, using at the start a temporary antenna.
WPIX. Daily News outlet, and WABD, Du
Mont station, are expected to follow suit, resulting
in all New York television stations operating
from the same location. Engineers
said that will mean much clearer images will
go out, whether in black and white or color.
If approval is obtained from the Federal
Communications commission, the broadcasters
will increase their wattage to gain more
distance.
The Empire State will finance and build
the tower. Construction and installation are
expected to take a year. Dr. Frank G. Kear
of Washington will be the designer. He said
that transmission of multiple signals from
the same tower will be new in commercial
television but is practical. Two stations, each
with its own tower, now use the Chicago
Municipal Opera Bldg., and all Los Angeles
television transmitters are on Mount Wilson.
Kear said that in addition to signals of the
four television stations, there probably will
be FM signals from the Empire State tower
from NBC and ABC. The present height
of the building is 1,250 feet.
Grace Rosenfield Leaves
Roach After 18 Years
NEW YORK—Grace Rosenfield. eastern
sales representative for Hal Roach, has resigned
after an 18-year association w'ith the
company. She was the only woman sales
representative for a Hollywood producer in
the industry.
After a vacation she plans to start her own
company, representing independent producers
on a worldwide basis in both sales and
promotion. Before joining Roach, Miss Rosenfield
was with Henry Gin.sberg, vice-president
of Paramoiuit Pictures Corp.
FOR CAPACITY BUSINESS
HOSTESS
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METRO PREMIUM COMPANY
334 W. 44th St. COIumt)us 51-1952 New York
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630 Ninth A»e. Tiie.itre Enuiimiefit Specialists New York City
at
BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1950 57

Monogram Meetings
Held in Two Cities
NEW YORK—Morey Goldstein. Monogram
Allied Artists general sales manager, presided
at two regional meetings
for branch managers,
the first at the
Warwick hotel, New
York, January 28, 29.
and the second at the
Hotel Muehlebach,
Kansas City, February
4. 5. Steve Broidy, president,
and Harold
Mirisch. vice-president,
attended both meetings
to talk about current
and future production
Morey Goldstein plans.
Goldstein discussed the selling policy and
plans for "Blue Grass of Kentucky," current
Cinecolor release, and three other color
pictures which will follow. They are; "Young
Daniel Boone." "Hiawatha" and "County
Fair." "Blue Grass" has been set for a March
8 opening in the Cincinnati and Indianapolis
territories, with dates booked in Cincinnati,
Dayton, Columbus, Louisville and Indianapolis.
He also talked on current sales
and liquidation.
Others from the home office who attended
the New York meeting were:
Edward Morey, vice-president; L. E. "Nicky" Goldhammer,
easterri sales manager; Jimmy Prichard,
Complete Sound Systems
Mom6mauAUTy..yir
COSTS CiSS
No cquipmenl oflfers more in value for
such Inw cost. Complete .sound systems
are available for theatres of every
size, shape and seating capacity. They
consist of a two-way horn system, pair
of soundheads, and either single or
dual channel amplitiers.
STAR CINEMA SUPPLY COMPANY
441 West 50lh Street,
New York 19, New York
Complete Theatre Equipment & Supplies
southern sales manager; Lloyd Lind, John Dervin and
Harry Goldstein,
Branch managers present were:
Horry Berkson, Buffalo; Nate Dickmon, Albany; Abe
Werner, Pittsburgh; Jack Safer, Washington; Ben
Abrams, Boston; Harlan Starr, Detroit; Mill Gurian,
Cincinnati; Johnny Pavone. Nevir Haven; Nate Schultz
Cleveland; Maxv/ell Gillis, Philadelphia: Nate Furst,
New York; Jimmy Hobbs, Atlanta; Hal Jordan. Charlotte;
Bailey Prichard, Memphis, and Henry Glover
New Orleans
Bert Stearn. head of Cooperative Theatres
in Pittsburgh, was an invited guest speaker
at the New York meeting and stressed the
importance of the series of group pictiares
made by Monogram and how much aid they
were to "the so-called nervous A pictures.'
Goldstein elaborated on Broidy's recent statements
in the tradepress with regard to the
necessity for improving the prices generally
paid for second features. He pointed out that
increased rentals for such product would
react to the benefit of the exhibitor, in that
the increases would encourage Monogram to
continue to improve the quality of its cofeatures.
Broidy and Mirisch, en route to the coast,
stopped off for the Kansas City meeting. Harold
Wirthwein, western sales manager, also
attended the Kansas City meet and branch
men present were:
Ben Eisenberg, Chicago; Irving Mandel, Chicago;
Sol Francis, Omaha; George Tail, Des Moines- C J
Duer. Denver; Don Tibbs, Salt Lake City; W. K.
Embleton, Indianapolis; Irving Marks, Minneapolis-
Edmund Cruea, Portland; Ralph Abbett, Seattle-
M, I, E, McCarthy, Los Angeles; Jim Myers San
Francisco; C. W, Trampe and Oliver Trampe' Milwaukee;
Howard Stubbins, Los Angeles; Mel Hulling,
San Francisco; M. Schweitzer, St. Louis; T, r'
Thompson, Kansas City, and M. Lipsner, Oklahoma
City,
New York Critics Award
Scrolls to 1949 Winners
NEW YORK—The New York Film Critics
presented their 1949 awards to winners at a
reception Sunday 1 5 ) in the Rainbow room ol
the RCA building, Rockefeller Center. Broderick
Crawford, chosen as best actor for hii:
role in "All the King's Men" (Col), and Olivia
DeHavilland. chosen as best actress for her
portrayal of "The Heiress" tParai, her second
consecutive Film Critics award, accepted their
scrolls and Crawford also accepted one for
Robert Rossen, who wrote, directed and produced
"All the King's Men."
Neither Carol Reed, best director for "The
Fallen Idol," nor Vittorio de Sica. producerdirector
of "The Bicycle Thief," best foreignlanguage
film, were on hand to accept their
scrolls. Reed's will be forwarded to David O.
Selznick, who released "Idol," and Dr. Aldo
Mazio. Italian consul-general, accepted the
scroll for de Sica.
RCA Ups G. L. McKenna
CAMDEN, N. J.—George L. McKenna has
been appointed assistant to W. W. Watts,
vice-president in charge of the RCA engineering
products department. McKenna had
been manager of the industrial products section
prior to his promotion and was with
Booz, Allen & Hamilton before joining RCA.
He is also a parttime lecturer on industry
at the Wharton school of the University of
Pennsylvania.
To Direct 'Prowl Car'
Producer Hunt Stromberg has slated Gordon
Douglas to direct "Prowl Car" for Columbia.
Shea Managers End
Meeting at Lunch
NEW YORK—Managers of theatres of M.
A. Shea Theatrical Enterprises, usually known
as the Shea circuit, wound up a two-day convention
at the Hotel Astor Wednesday (1)
which was attended by sales executives of all
the major companies and many of the equipment
companies with home offices here.
E. C. GRAINGER TOASTMASTER
E. C. Grainger, president, was toastmaster.
In spite of the fact that the circuit takes in
towns in upstate New York, northern Massachusetts,
New Hampshire, western Pennsylvania
and 13 cities in Ohio, it is a closely
knit organization in which all the managers
know each other as well as the principal executives.
Grainger visits every house five or
six times a year and talks with each manager
two or three times a week. He mentioned
during the course of the lunch that all but
one of the managers have been with the
company since before M. A. Shea died.
Seated on the dais were : James R, Grainger,
executive vice-president of Republic: Morton
G. Thalhimer; George Goett, who books the
stage shows; Gerald J. Shea, purchasing
agent and secretary of the company; Edward
C. Raftery, director and treasurer;
Arthur Driscoll, and W. E. Barry, controller.
Goett recently celebrated his 25th anniversary
with the company and is about to
observe his 79th birthday. He said he entered
the business in 1904 and could remember
when there were no theatres north of
Fourteenth street.
LIST OF THOSE PRESENT
Problems dealing with the general operation of
theatres came in for •
thorough discussion at the
annual meeting which started Tuesday (31) and
continued through Thursday (2), with E. C. Grainger,
president and general manager, presiding. The New
York office was represented by G. J, Shea, R. E.
Smith, C, J. Lawler, W. E, Barry, George Goett A J
Grainger and W. E, Shea.
City managers attending were: Dan Gilhula Jamestown,
N. Y,; Vincent Choate, Bradford, Pa',; J. V.
Minton, Erie, Pa.; Armand Pepin, McKees Rocks, Pa.-
lohn D, Walsh, Pittsburgh; E, J. Fahey, Manchester,
N. H.; F. D. Scribner, Nashua. N. H.; Dale McCoy
Amherst, Mass.; B. L. Hickey, Greenfield, Mass.-
Jack Baumgardt, Westlield, Mass.; R, W. Rhodes
Akron, Ohio; Dale Tysinger. Ashtabula, Ohio; F. L.
Bowers, Cambridge, Ohio; Bob Cannon, Conneaut,
Ohio; Thomas Turley, Dover, Ohio; Bob Limbaugh,
Geneva, Ohio; Fred Lahrmer, Lancaster, Ohio- Durward
Duty, Marietta. Ohio; William Gillam, Newark,
Ohio; Harold Synder. New Philadelphia, Ohio; J. W.
Hynes, Youngstown, Ohio; J. W. Scanlan and E J
Hiehle, Zanesville, Ohio, Frank V. King, field representative,
also attended.
About 175 persons attended a
day at the (1) Hotel Astor
luncheon
following a
Wednes-
cocktail
party. Among them were E, C. Raftery, Arthur Driscoll,
M, J. Callahan, Charles M. Reagan, Andy W.
Smith jr., A, W. Schwalberg, E, K, OShea, Louis
Weinberg, Arthur Greenblatt, Bernard Krantz. James
Mulvey, Robert Mochrie. Nat Levy, Benjamin Kalmenson,
Maurice Goldstein, R. Grainger, J.
Scully, A. Heineman, William A J.
William
O'Keefe,
J.
Bert
Sanford jr., Bernard Scholtz, William F. Rodgers,
S, Dembow, Charles L, Casonove
C. Perkins, George
and Neil Agnew.
'Never Fear' Will Open
In Chicago February 10
NEW YORK—"Never Pear," Pilmakers
production for Eagle Lion release, will open
in Chicago at the United Artists Theatre
February 10, according to WiUiam J. Heineman,
vice-president in charge of distribution.
Leon Brandt, advertising-publicity- exploitation
director, has named Charles A.
Moses to head an exploitation team in the
area. Keefe Brasselle and Sally Forrest, the
stars, will make personal appearances.
58 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

.
. . Several
. . James
. . The
. . . Kathleen
. . Harry
'High' and Stage Bill
Pace N.Y. With 125
NEW YORK — Two new films, "Twelve
—
Two War Films Do Top
Philadelphia Gross
PHILADELPHIA—First run situations did
normal business with pictures with a war
slant enjoying top grosses. "Sands of Iwo
Jlma" opened at the Stanley with 210 per
cent while "Battleground" went into its second
week at the Boyd with 160. The musical.
"On the Town," went into its fourth and last
week at the Randolph.
Aldine—Malaya (MGM), 4lh wk S7
Boyd—Battleground (MGM). 2nd wk. 160
Earle-South Sea Sinner (U-I) 90
Fox-Whirlpool (;Olh-Fox) 85
Goldman—Thelma Jordon (Para). 2nd wk 110
Karllon—The Red Shoes (EL) 110
Maslbaurr.—The Hasty Heart (WB) 100
Randolph— On the Tovra (MGM), 4th wk 115
Stanley—Sands of Iwo lima (Rep) 210
Stanton—Davy Crockett, Indian Scout (UA); The
Great Dan Patch (UA) 50
'Dear Wife' Grosses 140
To Lead Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA—First run situations drew
only average business. This is the seasonal
situation in which grosses decline from the
first of the year. "Dear Wife" at the Goldman
paced newcomers with 140 per cent.
"Battleground" at the Boyd was steady in
its
third week with 130 per cent.
Aldine—BorderUne (U-I) 78
Boyd—Battleground (MGM), 3rd wk __ _ 130
Earle—Brule Force (U-I): KUIers (U-I) 80
Fox—Whirlpool i20-h Fox), 2nd wk 90
Goldman—Dear Wiie (Pora) 140
Karllon—The Red Shoes (EL), 2nd wk. of 2nd run.. 105
Mastbaum—The Hasty Heart (WB), 2nd wk 75
Randolph— East Side, West Side (MGM), 2nd wk...l0O
Stanley—Sands of Iwo lima (Rep), 2nd wk 110
Slanlon—Ambush (MGM) 105
PHILADELPHIA
nt an annual meeting of Allied Theatre
Owners of Eastern Pennsylvania, results
of a questionnaire circulated among 400
exhibitors in the Philadelphia area were
disclosed. The theatremen voted 20th-Fox
.
O'clock High" and "The Man on the Eiffel
Tower." had strong opening weeks while the
majority of longer-run pictures went along
to mild business along Broadway. The
product most valuable,
other
and Fox as the company
new film. "Backfire." was disappointing in
with the fairest sales policy. Columbia
its
first and only week at the Globe.
was voted "the most difficult company to
"Samson and Delilah," in its sixth week deal with" with Paramount a runnerup for
at the Rivoli, was among the few holdovers this "honor."
which continued to strong grosses although Bill Holland, winner of the 1949 500-mile
"Anibush." in its second week at the Capitol, Indianapolis Speedway race lost the first
and "Tight Little Island." in its fifth week round of his $250,000 damage suit against
at the tiny Trans-Lux Madison Avenue, did the producers of "The Big Wheel." Federal
moderately well. The final weeks of "All the Judge James P. McGranery refused to halt
King's Men," "East Side, West Side" and showings of the film until the case is decided.
"Thelma Jordon" were off considerably.
Holland contends that his reputation
The six American-made features out of a has been damaged by the defendants who
total of U films that opened during the week allegedly make it appear in the picture that
were "The Third Man," "Key to the City." Holland won the race because of the breakdown
of the car driven by the hero (Mickey
"Dear Wife." "Montana," "Port of New York"
and "Girls' School."
(Average Is 100)
Astor—Battleground (MGM), 12th wk 95
Rooney )
Everett Callow, southwest publicity executive,
has been appointed regional chair-
Bijou—The Red Shoes (EL), 67th wk. of two-a-day 90
Capilol—Ambush (MGM). plus stage show. 2nd
wk 105
man of publicity for local observance of
Criterion—The Man on the Eiffel Tower (RKO) 120 Brotherhood week . amateur contestants
turned over their awards to Bill
Globe—Backfire (WB) 95
Gotham—Monkey Business (Para). Horsefeathers
(Para), reissues, 6th wk 85 Kanefsky, manager of the Ambassador Theatre,
for the March of Dimes . Ford
Loews Stale—East Side. West Side (MGM). 6th
wk 60
Mayiair—Sands of Iwo ]h I (Rep), 5lh wk
Motor Co. previewed its new color documentary
film, "The Human Bridge," before
Paramount—Thelma Jordo (Parcr), plus stage
show, 2nd wk
Palace—Blue Grass of Kentucky (Mc 3), plu 175 civic and business leaders at the Warwick
hotel Wednesday (1) . . . William
"
vaudeville 100
Radio City Music Hall—My Foolish Heart (RKO),
plus stage show, 2nd wk Goldman Theatres, Inc., has leased a store
102
Rivoli—Somson and Delilah (Para). 6th wk 115 in the Karlton Theatre to Lloyd and Haig
Roxy—Twelve O'clock High (20th-Fox), plus stage
for a men's shoe store.
show 125
Strand—The Hasty Heart (WB), plus stage show.
2nd wk _ 100 "Prince of Foxes" opened in 18 situations
Trans-Lux Madison Avenue Tight little Islond Wednesday il). The theatres were the Band
(EL), 5th wk 105
Victoria-All the King's Men (Col), 12th wk
Box, Benson, Broadway. Carman. Pern Rock,
60
Girard, Glenside, Iris, Lane, Liberty, Logan,
Ogontz, Oxford, Roosevelt, Roxy, State, Sub-
. . . Harold
urban and Tower , Edwards, star
of "Home of the Brave," was a guest Wednesday
at an open house program in the Fellowship
Commission building
Saltz and Bill Doyle. U-I salesmen, have
traded territories, Saltz taking over Jersey
and Delaware while Doyle will handle upstate
Pennsylvania.
Capital Film Exchange now is releasing
a series of nine "Cisco Kid" pictures. Southwest
theatres have already booked the film
. . . Paramount Decorating Co. is remodeling
Max Goodman's Ellicott Theatre in Ellicott
City . . . Jack L. Goldman. BOXOFFICE
booker, was in Miami on vacation. Esther
Bass, stenographer, took over Goldman's
booking duties during his absence.
. . .
Screen
American Film Co. has obtained distributing
rights to "Wings of Glory"
Guild executives attended a screening of
"Baron of Arizona" in New York. Harry
Brillman, office manager: Arthur Hyman
Sherman, salesmen, and Jack Engel,
and Moe
branch manager, saw the film . . . William
J. Mansell, WB branch manager, was on
sick leave . . . Robert Smeltzer, WB division
manager, visited the local office . . .
WB is lining up bookings for its Bill Mansell
drive March 12-18.
Herb GiUis, former Monogram salesman,
has been appointed Paramount sales manager
... Sid Barbett resigned as UA salesman
... J. J. Berger, former Paramount
sales manager, has been appointed UA salesman
for the Scranton area . . . Bill Solomon
has resigned as salesman for Price Premiums
. . . Ro.se Shapiro. EL biller. will sing
on the Fame and Fortune television show
Thursday (9).
. . . The
.
The Star Theatre in Elmer. N. J., opened
The father of
its doors
Bessie
Saturday
Wittenberg.
(4i . . .
NSS clerk, died recently
O'Hara. NSS branch manager's
secretary, has become engaged
French film "Gigi" will be distributed
through Principal Films in the Philadelphia
area Berman. EL branch manager,
has returned to work following a recent
operation.
Jap Prison Camp Picture
To Open February 20
NEW YORK—"Three Came Home." 20th
Century-Fox Japanese prison camp semidocumentary,
will open February 20 at the
Astor Theatre. The house will be closed during
the day to prepare for the evening affair.
Parts of the film were shot in Borneo. It was
produced by Nunnally John.son. directed by
Jean Negulesco. stars Claudelte Colbert and
presents Patric Knowles. Florence Desmond
and Sessue Hayakawa as supporting players.
Noel Coward to Premiere
NEW YORK— Noel Coward will
attend the
world film premiere of his production. "Thi;
Astoni.shed Heart," February 13 at the Park
Avenue Theatre. The performance will be
a benefit for the Mary MacArthur memorial
fund for the National Foundation for Infantile
Paralysis and was arranged by Coward
with Helen Hayes, chairman of the memorial
fund.
FOMACK .
does
only ONE thing
and does it well
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. . Diane
. . Lew
. . Anthony
. . Ann
. . Mrs.
. . The
. . The
. . Jack
. . Pat
. . Irving
ALBANY
. . William
. . . Ray
Mate Dickman, Monogram manager, and Bob
Adler, head booker, attended a weekend
regional meeting in New York .
C. Smalley of Smalley Theatres. Cooperstown,
was vacationing in Miami . 20th-
Fox exchange has a new clock with blue
hands and figures on a white background,
exploiting "Twelve O'clock High"
Smith. Warner manager, is serving as secretary
of the area committee in the drive to
repeal the 20 per cent federal admission tax.
Theatre collections for the March of Dimes
campaign were taken January 25-31 at Benton's
Capitol in Ballston Spa . recent
$1,000,000 Brink's robbery in Boston
.
gives new interest to the Realart reissue of
"The Armored Car." The film was booked
with "The Ghost Catchers" for a Leland
date this week . . Dr. Sigmund Spaeth,
in a Schenectady broadcast, criticized the
barbershop singing scenes in "In the Good
Old Summertime." Spaeth said that four
male voices are all that belong in barbershopping,
while the producing company put
Judy Garland in front of the singers and
an orchestra behind them . Arthur
Newman, wife of the Republic manager, was
to enter Albany hospital for a gland operation.
Mark Freeland arranged exploitation for
United Artists' "Davy Crockett. Indian
Scout" at the Ritz. The picture had one of
the biggest openings at the Warner house
in recent months according to Oscar Perrin.
manager . Grofsik. assistant sales
manager for General Register Corp.. Long
Island City, was here to promote Automaticket
equipment for drive-ins. George
Hare, who had covered this territory, now is
traveling the southern section of the country.
Jack Kimball, new salesman for Redrum
Fabrics, visited Filmrow. He succeeded George
Redfield. who is now in the Boston offices
of the company . Minozzi. who
managed the Colonial ten years ago for the
Berinstein estate, renewed Filmrow acquaintances.
He now is in the monument business
here . Dobbs is new secretary at the
Monogram exchange . Bonana. secretary
to Jack McGrath of Albany Theatre
Supply Co.. was absent from her desk for a
week because of illness.
Milt Schosberg, former manager of Fabian's
Grand, wrote a local friend that
weather conditions had been favorable for
construction of his drive-in on the East
Lincoln highway at Coatesville. Pa., and that
he expected to open it early in April. Schosberg
worked for the Schine circuit in Ohio
and upstate New York and for Paramount-
FOR SALE
Simplex Mechanisms S750 per pcdr; Guaranteed
factory rebuilt. Prices f.o.b. Chicago or
New York factory.
Now installing new machines throughout large
circuit. Contact us today. Terms ii desired.
ALBANY THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
1046 Broadway 5-5055 Albany, N. Y.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE
"Men" and "Ladies" Rest Room Liohts $6.75 eath
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. kIII^,'c>Tm.
Publix before joining the Fabian organization
The Knickerbocker News printed
. . . a two-column picture of Colleen Bechard.
secretary to Alex Sayles. Palace manager,
viewing the annual prize-winning pictures in
a national snapshot contest. Tliey were on
display in the Palace lobby until January 29.
"The Red Danube" and "Johnny Eager,"
a reissue, did nice business during a nineday
engagement at the Grand, according to
Paul Wallen, manager .
Kaufman
was here working on "Guilty of Treason."
which will open at the Strand February 8.
Dr. Luther Grant plans to operate the
Mountain Drive-In at Loch Sheldrake in the
Catskill mountains for another year, it was
reported here. Earlier reports were that he
wanted to sell the property. The ozoner. built
at a cost of $170,000. was opened last June.
Dr. Grant is a lung specialist in Liberty . . .
The Ritz put two men on the street in pirate
attire to distribute keys for a "treasm-e box"
in the jewelry department of the Fern Furniture
Co.. as promotion for "The Pirates of
Capri." The men distributed 10.000 keys, six
of which opened the box and made the holders
eligible for wrist watches and other prizes
valued at $400. Manager Oscar Perrin and
Jerry Atkin. Warner exploiteer. arranged the
stunt.
Sandy Miller, manager of the Menands
Drive-In and son of Joe Miller, partner in
the ozoner and a Realart salesman, was vacationing
in Los Angeles . Patterson,
manager of the Leland. left to visit his
brother in Marietta, Ohio, where the latter
is dean of Marietta college. Larry Alexander,
assistant manager and son of Harry Alexander,
local Eagle Lion manager, was to have
charge during Patterson's absence.
. . .
Warners' Ritz ran "Devil in the Flesh"
February 1-7. its first foreign-language picture
Sam
since "Paisan" last spring Rosenblatt of the Grand and Strand. Watervliet.
visited Filmrow. Joe Riley of the Holly.
Watervliet. also was in town . Fried,
president of Tristate Automatic Candy Corp..
Buffalo, and his wife have been on a vacation
in South America.
.
. . . Sylvan
Sam Resnick, active lay member of the
Variety Club, will leave soon for South
America . . Dr. Irving Kaskel. another
Variety Club member, recently returned from
a vacation in Miami. He saw Neil Hellman
and Mrs. Hellman while there
Leff. who operates three theatres in Utica.
reported that business was from five to ten
per cent under the level of a year ago. The
employment picture has brightened in Utica.
but textile mills still are running considerably
below normal, Leff said.
Clark in MGM Story Post
NEW YORK—Olin H. Clark,
eastern story
editor of MGM for the past eight years, will
take charge of the eastern scenario department
following the recent resignation of Mrs.
Carol Brandt, to become effective July 15.
Clark will work with Kenneth MacKenna.
executive in charge of the story department
at the studio.
There is no time to lose! Act today on
repeal of the amusement tax!
BEST OF MONTH—E.
PhiUp Willcox
presents the Parents' Magazine award for
the best picture for the month to (Right)
Howard Dietz. MGM vice-president and
director of advertising, publicity and exploitation.
The picture was "Stars in My
Crown."
INCORPORATIONS
— ALBANY —
Mirsteel Films: To conduct business in New
York: capital stock, 200 shares, no par.
Rugoff & Becker Management Corp.:
Amusement for the public in Kings county;
$20,000, $100 par.
Gainsborough Associates: Radio, television
shows and motion pictures in New York;
200 shares, no par.
Hudson Valley Drive-In Enterprises: To
conduct business in Newbui'gh; 200 shares, no
par: Thomas Tulve, 24 Spring St.. and Adolph
Knaust, R. R. 1. Newburgh: Louis Brander,
120 Walsh Ave.. New Windsor.
Luna Park Drive-In Theatre: To operate m
Kings county: 600 shares. 500 preferred. $1
par and 100 conunon. no par.
Cisco Kid Pictures: Cincinnati, Ohio, recorded
papers that its New York offices are
at 120 Broadway: John L. Sinn, vice-president:
250 shares, no par.
Morton Productions: Motion pictures and
stage plays in New York; $5,000, $25 par.
Mergram Theatre Corp.: To do business in
New York: $20,000, $1 par; Hej'bert Schrank,
320 W. 90th St.; Susanne Foley. 114-20 203:-d
Ave.. St. Albans; Helen Cohen. 159-07 Hillside
Ave., Jamaica.
Main Amusement Corp.: Buffalo, dissolved.
50th Street Amusement Center: New York,
dissolved.
Saliiva Drive-In Theatre Corp.: Buffalo;
200 shares, no pai".
Adastra, Inc.: Records, motion pictures and
radio productions in New York; 100 shares,
no par.
Gladys Glad. Inc.: Motion picture business
in New York; 200 shares, no par.
Buffalo Amusement Operators Ass'n, Inc.,
dissolved.
The Republic picture formerly called
"Faces in the Sun" has been changed to "My
Sister's Destiny."
60 BOXOFFICE ;; February 4. 1950

IL.
. . Mrs.
. . The
. . The
. . Frances
. . The
. . Tying
"
Solons Consider Bill
torney associated with Harry Lamont in several
drive-ins, who said he believed that "it
behooves all drive-in operators to see to it
that this bill is not passed."
"They should use their influence and persuasive
powers to prevent enactment," Sumberg
said. "The bill sets a bad precedent."
Sumberg challenged the statement that
drive-ins create traffic hazards pointing out
that operators usually "clear their site with
the state traffic commission."
"The charge of contributing to juvenile delinquency
has no foundation in my opinion,"
he added. "About 80 per cent of our trade
is family. And the Lamont organization has
received letters of commendation from sheriffs
in counties where we operate."
Ellis Arnall to Recommend
SIMPP Approve COMPO
NEW YORK—EUis Arnall, SIMPP president
of the Society of Independent Motion
Picture Producers, will recommend to the 25
members of the organization that they ratify
COMPO. but he thinks that the financial
contributions expected of 21 of them who
have no distributing connections with MPAA
member companies, calls for further clarification.
He praised the clarifying paragraph
supplied by Ned E. Depinet, RKO president,
earlier in the week, but pointed out that
Depinet and the MPAA directors which accepted
it could speak only for MPAA. United
Artists, which handles independent product,
is not a member of MPAA, and there are
other distributors not affiliated with MPAA
handling independent product.
Arnall said the SIMPP executive committee
is being apprised of all developments, and
that the members will be polled for their
decision on COMPO. "It is my belief that
COMPO offers the industry unlimited possibilities
as an instrument to promote its welfare
and continued success," he said.
'Francis' Radio Plugs
Heard on 3 Programs
NEW YORK—"Francis," Universal-International
February release, received three network
radio plugs in one evening January 29
when Walter Winchell. Louella Parsons and
"Chance of a Lifetime" each called attention
to the film.
The ABC audience heard Winchell carry
Fred Allen's comment on his 272 stations
while Miss Parsons, who followed on the same
272 stations, told about the showing before
the U.S. forces in Germany. "Chance of a
Lifetime," heard on 203 ABC .stations, started
a six-week promotion on "Francis."
NEWARK
gernic Silverman, manager of the Branford.
ran an extensive campaign to exploit
Warners' "The Hasty Heart." Besides lobby
displays, sidewalk stencils were used. A
plane at the Newark airport publicized the
attraction. Throwaways and heralds helped,
as well as cards on taxicabs and posters in
local shop windows ... A. J. Rettig, owner
of the Ormont, East Orange, has been spending
weekends in Connecticut. The Ormont
To Outlaw Drive-ins
ALBANY—A bill to prohibit future erection
of drive-ins in cities of 250,000 population
or more was introduced in the New York
legislature Wednesday (1 ) by Assemblyman
Alfred A. Lama. Brooklyn. The measure
would affect New York. Buffalo and Rochester.
Lama was quoted as saying that drive-ins
cause traffic hazards, citing conditions before
and after performances in Long Island. will run "The Red Shoes."
He also charged that drive-ins contribute to
juvenile delinquency.
Introduction of the measure brought an
immediate reply from Lewis A. Sumberg. at-
Jo-seph Geller, manager of the Castle in
Irvington. tied in with the Irvington Herald
in sponsoring a coloring contest on chief
Big Tree in conjunction with "She Wore a
Yellow Ribbon." Schools were contacted.
The Major music store ran displays of sheet
music. EIntries were mailed or delivered to
the theatre, and 12 sets of passes were
awarded to winners . Castle ran a
special kiddy matinee co-featuring the two
Tarzan films which were produced in
Guatemala.
Michael Mulkerns, formerly connected with
the Empire Theatre, has been substituting
for Harry Hadfield, electrician at the Castle
and Sanford in Irvington, during the latter's
. illness Helen Borst is new Empire
relief cashier, replacing Eleanor DriscoU,
The Castle tied in with
who resigined . . .
the Irvington public library on "That Forsyte
Woman," using a book display . . . James
DiPalo, assistant at the Regent, arranged
lobby displays of stills on "Tokyo Joe."
"Prison Without Bars" and "City Without
Men."
H. Andrew Garofalo, manager of the Regent,
visited eight schools in his vicinity to
speak on "Coming Pictures at Theatres."
Garofalo has been using a musical number
at the end of each film. He finds these
intermissions have improved the candy
stand business . . . Robert Ostron, assistant
at the Hudson in Kearny, and his wife became
parents of a baby girl.
Bernie Edelstein, manager of the Hud.son
in Kearny, and Virginia Aaron. New Jersey
booker for MGM. were married recently.
Having returned from a southern trip, they
are making their home temporarily in New
York . Stanley and the Mayfair have
National Allied
Meeting
Of Board Set Feb. 9, 10,
WASHINGTON — Election of officers,
action on participation in COMPO and
discu.ssions of competitive bidding experience
and po.ssible commercial arbitration
of exhibitor-distributor disputes head
the list of some 30 matters on the agenda
for the meeting of the National Allied
board of directors here Thursday and Friday
of next week. In addition, there will
be special reports on video by Trueman
Rembu.sch and Sidney Samuel.son on outdoor
theatres.
Chairman A. P. Myers said it can freely
be predicted that a number of matters on
the agenda will have to be carried over to
the spring meeting, but he would not
specify which.
. . Thomas
arranged a Porky Pig wrist watch giveaway
for children to run in March .
Cantillo. manager of the Mayfair, and Orazio
Palmisano, his assistant, arranged a tiein
on "Song of Surrender," giving away four
Caruso record albums.
Hank Brenwasser, manager of the Regent
Theatre in Kearny, has been appointed
chairman for the March of Dimes campaign
Jack Barrett, manager of the
there . . .
Wellmont in Montclair, tied in w'ith local
music stores on "Song of Surrender." The
shops used displays of sheet music.
.
claii- . . .
.
.
The Regent in Kearny has discontinued
matinees Randall is new relief
manager at the Bellevue. Upper Mont-
The Grove in Irvington received
a good respon.se on "Triumph der Liebe,
German film with English subtitles, co-featured
with a Swiss production on Alpine
mountain climbing. The Grove has an excellent
lineup of German pictures, which are
continuing in popularity in with
the million-dollar robbery in Boston. William
Waldron. manager of the Franklin in
Nutley. co-featured George Raft in "I Stole
a Million" with "The Bank Dick" starring
W. C. Fields Franklin distributed
heralds on "The Heiress." The theatre is
planning an extensive campaign on "Hamlet,"
due in March.
'II Trovatore' to Open
At CineMet February 8
NEW YORK—"U Ti-ovatore." new Italian
film based on the Verdi opera and distributed
in the U.S. by Globe Films, will open at the
Little CineMet Theatre February 8. Enzo
Ma.scherini. who made his debut with the
Metropolitan Opera this .season, has the featured
role. The film has English titles and a
special commentary.
Another opera film. "Pagliacci," distributed
in the U. S. by Motion Picture Sales Corp..
will open at the Little Carnegie some time in
February following the run of the current
"The Titan. Story of Michelangelo." The
picture stars Tito Gobbi, who sings the dual
role of Tonio. the clown, and Silvio, the lover,
in Leoncavallo's opera.
Stars. Society Leaders
At 'Third Man' Opening
NEW YORK—Film stars and .society leaders
attended the American opening of Carol
Reed's "The Third Man" at the Victoria
Theatre February 1 for the benefit of the
Lighthouse of the New York Ass'n for the
Blind. The event was sold out several days
before the opening and many society dinners
preceded the opening.
'Port of New York' Day
Observed February 2
NEW YORK— February 2 was "Port of New
York" day by proclamation of Acting Mayor
Vincent R. Impellitteri. It also was the opening
day of Eagle Lion's "Port of New York"
at the Globe Theatre.
\Vhat have YOU done today to help secure
repeal of the unfair amusement tax?
BOXOFFICE :: February 4. 19.50 61

UN Advisory Council
Praises Hollywood
WASHINGTON—Resounding praise for the
adult level of Hollywood thinking and achievement
is penned by Librarian of Congress
Luther H. Evans in the current issue of the
National Council News. This is a newsletter
from the membership of the National Advisory
Council on American Participation in
UNESCO, the United Nations educational and
cultural organization.
Dr. Evans was a visitor in Hollywood in
December, traveling as a representative of
the council. As a result of his trip he suggested
that Hollywood be accorded increased
membership on the council roster.
He wrote that he found Hollywood's best
talent "surprisingly well oriented to the problems
which we wanted to discuss with them
and very receptive to concrete suggestions as
to ways in which the motion picture industry
could play a greater role in the work for
peace."
He spoke also of "the many instances in
which the motion picture industry had already
made a significant contribution to the
elimination of prejudices and misunderstandings
among nationality and other groups."
Evans suggested that in the interest of
world betterment "any feature film should be
considered before it is actually produced in
the light of whether the impact which it
would deliver upon the public of this country
and of other countries would be an impact
which left a result conducive to the strengthening
or to the weakening of the forces working
for a peaceful world."
He had high praise for the work of Myrna
Loy, who has served as a volunteer liaison
officer between the industry and the council.
Goldwyn-Disney Import
Request Up to Army
NEW YORK—The grant of individual Japanese
import licenses to Samuel Goldwyn and
Walt Disney rests with Gen. Douglas Mac-
Arthur's headquarters in Tokyo and top army
brass in Washington, which have the matter
under consideration.
No attempt will be made by the Motion
Picture Export Ass'n, which has a Japanese
distribution understanding with the army, to
influence the military men either for or
against the grant, MPEA members said during
the week, but Goldwyn and Disney may
have to break down a possible unwillingness
to open the door to the inconvenience of separate
import agreements.
If the two independent producers are successful
in their request, they will get a share
of the $1,600,000 convertibility fund allowed
by the U.S. government on a maximum of 104
films a year. Robert J. Rubin, SIMPP general
counsel, said he knew of no late developments.
John Jones in New Post
As WB Mexican Manager
NEW YORK—Wolfe Cohen, Warner Bros.
International president, has promoted John
Jones, Havana manager, to the post of manager
for Mexico, with headquarters in Mexico
City. He will be supervised by Armando Trucios.
Pacific division manager. Peter Colli,
Caribbean division manager, is filling in at
the Havana office pending a new appointment.
MPEA Reports Successful
Films Showing Abroad
NEW YORK—Top grossing films in Austria
during January are reported by the
Motion Picture Export Ass'n which, despite
the good business done in that country, has
started a 12-week sales drive. The leading
films in Vienna were "San Antonio" (WBi,
"Snake Pit," "Miracle on 34th Street," "That
Night in Rio" and "Western Union" (20th-
Fox), "Can't Help Sinning" (U-I) and "Panhandle"
iMono-AAi.
In Bulgaria, the state censor board has
approved "Song of Love" (MGM), and "The
Seventh Cross" (MGM), approved several
months ago, was scheduled to open in Sofia.
The three outstanding films in that city
in 1949 were "Life of Emile Zola" and "Adventures
of Mark Twain" (WB) and "Men
in Her Life" (Col).
In Poland all MPEA films currently in
first run releases are doing excellent business,
but "All Baba and the 40 Thieves"
(U-I) is doing better than any of them by
50 per cent, according to Jean Birkhahn,
supervisor of the MPEA-Film Polski contract,
now in New York. In Lodz the film
was rounding out its third consecutive month.
In Japan, the leaders in different cities
were "Paleface" (Para), "Tarzan's New
York Adventure" (MGM), "Notorious" (RKO)
and "Wistful Widow of Wagon Gap" (U-I).
The MPEA report was the first issued
since it ended operations in Germany and
Indonesia.
Westinghouse TV Output
To Expand 75 Per Cent
NEW YORK—Westinghouse Electric Corp.
television output for 1950 will exceed that of
1949 by 75 per cent through additional manufacturing
facilities at its Sunbury, Pa., plant,
according to F. M. Sloan, home radio division
manager. He forecast that the industry will
make more than 3,500,000 receivers during
the year, and that 24.000,000 families will be
served by 98 stations by the end of the year.
He said prices of sets have been reduced almost
50 per cent in the last five years, but
that such drastic reductions cannot be expected
in the future.
National Theatres Heads
To Meet in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES — Divisional presidents,
executives and district managers of National
Theatres will gather here February 14 through
17 for their first meeting of 1950, with President
Charles P. Skouras of NT and Fox
West Coast conducting the sessions.
To be reviewed are operations during 1949,
while plans for the current year will be discussed
and the product outlook evaluated.
Attending will be representatives of FWC.
Evergreen, Fox Intermountain and Fox Midwest.
MGM Radio Adds Outlets
NEW YORK—MGM Radio Attractions
added 36 stations to its subscriber list in
January, bringing the total in Canada and
the United States to over 150. Three of the
stations added to its radio transcription .service
are 50,000 watt outlets: WBAL, Baltimore,
Md.: KABC. San Antonio, Tex., and KRMG.
Tulsa, Okla.
MPIC 1950 Program
Likely This Week
HOLL^YWOOD—Final details of its
program were expected to be set at
1950
midweek
meeting of the Motion Picture Industry
Council after it received a unanimous vote tof
confidence for continuation through the year
by the nine guild, union and producer organizations
which make up its membership.
The MPIC, dedicated to improving the industry's
overall public relations, has been in
existence for ten months.
Approval of its 1949 accomplishments and
its plans for 1950 were forthcoming from the
Ass'n of Motion Picture Producers, Hollywood
AFL Film Council. Independent Motion
Picture Producers Ass'n, Independent Office
Workers, Screen Actors. Directors and Writers
guilds. Society of Independent Motion Picture
Producers and Society of Motion Picture Art
Directors.
Chairman Ronald Reagan presided over the
February 1 session. MPIC policies are expected
to include strong support of the Council
of Motion Picture Organizations and continued
building of intraindustry relations.
CBS Schedules Election
Coverage From Britain
NEW YORK—CBS will cover the national
elections in Britain on radio and television,
starting with the pre-election campaign Saturday
(4) and scheduling more than 70 broadcasts,
including the election returns on February
23. Wells Church, editor in chief of
CBS News, will head the staff being sent to
London. He will be assisted by Howard K.
Smith. Bill Downs. Winston Burdett, Paul
Niven and Edward R. Murrow. The preliminary
broadcasts will cover various sections
in England. Scotland and Wales and will
include campaign speeches by Churchill and
Atlee.
President of Indonesia
Sees Paramount Reel
NEW YORK—President Sukarno of Indonesia
viewed an air-shipped print of Paramount
British News on January 7 in Djkarta.
capital city, reporting on the recent ceremonies
transferring sovereignty in Holland.
The Paramount film was the first newsreel
on the transfer to reach Djkarta. The main
hall of the presidential palace was converted
into a projection room for the screening.
The president also saw Cecil B. DeMille's
"The Story of Dr. Wassell" at his special request.
He told Paramount representatives he
was deeply interested in Hollywood films and
hopes to have weekly screenings at the palace.
Paramount Opens Office
In U.S. of Indonesia
NEW YORK—Paramount Films of Indonesia,
Inc., has been established in Batavia
following the creation of the U. S. of Indonesia.
The new company, an arm of Paramount
International Films, will serve a territory
of 70,000,000 people. It will be under the
supervision of Paramount International's far
eastern division.
What have YOU done today to help secure
repeal of the unfair amusement tax?
'
62 BOXOFFICE February 4. 1950

NEWS AND VIEWS THE PRODUCTION CENTER
(Hollywood Office—Suite 219 at 6404 Hollywood Blvd.: Ivan Spear, Western Manager)
Few Filmdom Notables
Receive Tele Awards
were in
HOLLYWOOD—Film personalities
the minority as recipients of kudos when the
Academy of Television Arts and Sciences held
its second annual awards banquet.
Milton Berle, whose last appearance in a
theatrical film was Warners' "Always Leave
Them Laughing," was adjudged the top kinescope
personality and also won an award for
the best kinescope show, while Ed Wynn, not
active in films since the '30s, snagged top
honors as best live personality and best live
show.
Irving Brecher, radio, screen and TV
writer-producer, won the award for the best
video film show. "The Life of Riley." Brecher
made a theatrical film version of the program
for U-I last year.
The Academy also passed out awards for
the best children's show, "Time for Beany";
the best commercials, Lucky Strike; best public
service presentation, screening of "Crusade
in Europe" by the ABC network, and best
station achievement, Paramount's KTLA.
Formation of Pollock, Rogers and Raisbeck
Productions as a new TV unit has been completed
by Max Pollock, film and radio attorney;
Roger Rogers, stage producer, and Robert
Raisbeck, radio producer-director. The
new outfit has obtained TV rights to some
2,000 plays, stories and musicals and will
create and produce package deals for advertising
agencies and sponsors.
Francis Lederer. veteran stage and screen
star, will be in charge of the drama directorial
staff and a dramatic stock company
has been formed with Jane Darwell, Michael
Whalen, Helen Parrish, Lyle Talbot, Clifton
Young and Lederer as the nucleus.
Nassours Sue Don Crisp
For Cancelled Note
HOLLYWOOD—Declaratory relief is sought
in a superior court action filed by William
and Edward Nassour, independent producers
and owners of the Nassour studios, against
Donald Crisp, veteran actor and production
executive. The Nassours allege that early in
1949 Crisp entered into an agreement with
the studio corporation, under which he
advanced $150,000 in return for certain capital
stock. In October of last year, the plaintiffs
allege, another agreement was executed
under which the Nassours sold to Crisp a
20 per cent interest in their Abbott and Costello
comedy, "Africa Screams," in return
for a cancellation of the $150,000 loan and the
return of his stock in the studio.
Deferred Payment Ruling
Interpretations Differ
HOLLYWOOD—Some industry observers
viewed the conviction of two independent
filmmakers on the grounds they violated a
section of the California state labor code as
a blow to unaffiliated producers, since it
strikes at the rather general financial practice
of "deferred payment" agreements with
craftsmen employed in such picture-making
projects.
The ruling, handed down in Beverly Hills
justice court, was against Producer Seymour
Nebenzal and his son Harold in an action
brought against them by Milton Carter, an
assistant director. Judge Henry H. Draeger
found the Nebenzals guilty of violating section
204 of the state labor code, which provides
that all wages earned by any person
in any employment are due and payable
twice each calendar month.
The Nebenzals had been cited by the state
labor commission on Carter's complaint that
he was hired in March 1949 as an assistant
director at $350 weekly. He claimed that the
pact called for him to be paid $50 weekly in
cash for four and one-half weeks, with the
balance to be deferred until either June 1.
1949, or until the picture started, whichever
came first. When production began, he said,
all deferred portions of his salary were to be
paid in a lump sum and he was to begin
drawing his $350 a week. Carter charged,
however, that his deferred salary of $1,800
was never paid and that the Nebenzals offered
him only $164. The picture never
reached the cameras.
Tlie Nebenzals have been granted a 40-day
postponement, until March 8, before a sentence
and probation hearing is called. The
elder Nebenzal told the court that the "deferred
payment" technique is accepted procedure
among independents and contended
that without some such system it would have
been "impossible" to have made many pictures
now released. At the March 8 hearing
the Nebenzals promised to bring records from
other producers and studios to demonstrate
that the practice of deferring wages is wide-
.spread.
Some other sources close to the independent
production scene tended, however, to minimize
the effects of Judge Draeger's ruling
against the Nebenzals. These persons, in
places of authority but insisting that they
remain anonymous, contended that the whole
question of deferred payments hinged upon
minimum wage scales: that, provided such
minimum salaries were forthcoming in cash
at tlie intervals .specified in section 204, there
could be no question as to the legality of
deferring the balance of such wages in the
event an over-scale rate had been agreed
upon.
For example, a director whose minimum
wage might be $400 weekly and who might
be signed by an independent producer at a
salary of $1,500 weekly, could be paid the
$400 minimum, with the balance of $1,100
deferred.
"In effect," one observed said, "such employes—whether
directors, actors, writers or
what—have made an investment in the projest
on which they are working. It is an openand-shut
business deal."
This industry representative pointed out
further that, in his opinion, as concerns the
Nebenzal case it cannot be considered typical
since "few independent producers carry the
deferred payment technique down into the
ranks of a.ssistant directors and other craftsmen
whose wage scales are comparatively
low."
The heaviest deferments, he declared,
lie in the "multi-thousand-dollar brackets."
Hence, he added, the Nebenzal ruling "puts
nobody in jeopardy."
Carl Krueger Will Film
All-Star Football Game
HOLLYWOOD—Producer Carl Krueger has
set a deal with the Chicago Tribune, which
sponsors the event, wliereby Krueger will
film "All-Star Game." a picturization of the
yearly football tilt between professional and
college grid stars. The fracas is held annually
in the Windy city.
A screen treatment is being developed by
Dick Hyland, Los Angeles Times sports writer
and former college football star. No release
has been established.
Krueger's last film project, "The Golden
Gloves Story," has been set for Eagle Lion
distribution and will be given its world premiere
in Chicago March 16.
First U.S. Debut Slated
For British Picture
HOLLYWOOD—The world premiere of
"The Astonished Heart" at the Park Avenue
Theatre in New York February 13 will mark
the first time In Anglo-American film history
that a major British picture will be seen
in the U.S. before being shown In England.
BOXOFFICE
: : February 4, 1950 63

-
STUDIO PERSONNEUTIES
Barnstormers
Paramount
BOB HOPE was to emcee at both the testimonial
dinner given in honor of Vice-President and Mrs.
Alben Barkley and the annual White House correspondents'
dinner, which were to be held in
Washington February 3, 4, respectively. Prior to
his Washington stints Hope was to appear in Durham,
N. C, and New York.
Blurbers
Independent
Joining the Carl Post publicity office as an associate
and manager of the Hollywood office was OZZIE
GAINES, femme drumbeater from New York.
Lippert
The WILLIAM KESTER agency has been retained
to handle the national advertising campaign on
"The Baron of Arizona."
SRO
MILT WATT and BEN WESTLAND hove been added
to the flacking staff by Les Kaufman, recently appointed
publicity-advertising director.
Cleffers
Columbia
MISCHA BAKALEINIKOFF was assigned to compose
musical scores for four films: "David Harding,
Counterspy"; "Captive Girl"; "State
and "Beyond the Purple Hills."
Penitentiary,"
Metro
RUDOPH KOPP was assigned to prepare and direct
the musical score for the Pete Smith short, "Wrong
Son."
Paramount
Composing the scores for "September Affair" and
"The Furies," respectively, are VICTOR YOUNG and
FRANZ WAXMAN.
Set to write three songs for the Hal Wallis production,
"My Friend Irma Goes West," was the
team of JAY LIVINGSTON and RAY EVANS. TROY
SANDERS was assigned to serve as musical adviser
for the film.
REO Radio
Producer Samuel Goldwyn signed HUGO FRIED-
HOFER to write the score for "The Edge of Doom."
TROF wnll be the Jerry Wald production, "Storm
Warning."
DAVID BUTTOLPH was assigned to write the
musical score for "Pretty Baby."
Signed to do the musical score for "Bright Leaf"
was VICTOR YOUNG.
Loanouts
Metro
WENDELL COREY was loaned by Hal Wallis
Warners
=''"* 'or musical director
„J^^' DANIELE AMFITHEA-
Productions
to ploy the male lead in the Lana Turner
starrer, "A Life of Her Own."
RKO Radio
V/ILLIAM BENDIX was borrowed from Hal Roach
on a two-picture deal and was assigned the chief
heavy role in "Alias Mike Fury." Ted Tetzlaff directs
for Producer Warren Duff
Meggers
Metro
^''"^^"^ "R.S.V.P." was GOTTFRIED
ReInHARDt'"
Set to direct the Esther Williams vehicle, "Pagan
Love Song," was ROBERT ALTON.
Assigned to produce his own original story, "The
Teen-Age Version," was CAREY WILSON.
Paramount
Producer Hal Wallis signed HAL WALKER to meg
My Friend Irma Goes West."
In an assignment switch Producer JOSEPH SIS-
TROM was set for "Nor All for Tears" while RICH-
ARD MAIBAUM takes over the production chores lor
Dear Mom."
LESLIE FENTON has been signed to direct the
Alan Ladd topliner, "Montana," for Producer Mel
Epstein.
Republic
Director R. G. SPRINGSTEEN had his option lifted
for another year.
ALAN DWAN was handed the producer-director
assignment on "My Sister's Destiny."
Set to produce and direct "State Police Patrol"
were STEPHEN AUER and PHIL FORD, respectively.
Universal-International
JOSEPH PEVNEY's first directorial chore for the
studio will be "Yangtse Pirates," to be produced
by Ted Richmond.
Warners
Director EDWIN L. MARIN was inked to a contract
calling for two films annually and the right to do
one outside picture a year.
Options
Columbia
Inked to star in the Scott-Brown production, "Lost
Stage Valley," were ROD CAMERON and WAYNE
MORRIS.
Eagle Lion
Signed for "The Sun Sets at Dawn" was LOR-
RAINE LORRIMER.
Independent
LUDWIG DONATH was signed for Horizon Productions'
Van Heflin vehicle, "The Cost of Living," to
be directed by Joseph Losey for Producer Sam
Spiegel.
Metro
SALLY COOPER, daughter o! actress GLADYS
COOPER, will make her screen debut in the Lana
Turner vehicle, "A Life of Her Own," to be directed
by George Cukor for Producer Voldemar Vetluguin.
SPENCER TRACY was set to star in "Yankees in
Te.xas" for Producer Pandro S. Berman.
MAURICE IAEA, of the Padua Hills players, wan
slated for the Gary Grant vehicle, "Crisis." Richard
Brooks directs for Producer Arthur Freed.
Monogram
Castings for "Jiggs and Maggie Out West" indude
JIMMY AUBREY, PAT GOLDIN, TOM KENNEDY,
BOYD STOCKMAN, RILEY HILL, DICK RYAN and
SAILOR VINCENT. William Beaudine directs and
Barney Gerard produces the Joe Yule and Renin
Riano vehicle.
Cast in the Whip Wilson starrer, "Guns Roar in
Rockhill," were ANDY CLYDE, RENO BROWNE,
SARAH PADDEN, BILL KENNEDY, STEVE CLARK and
FRANK McCARROLL.
RKO Radio
Set for "Sons of the Musketeers" was DEAM
CETRULO. Also signed for the Cornel Wilde-Maureen
O'Hara starrer was FRED KOHLER JR.
Republic
Actor JOHN CARROLL was inked to a new nonexclusive
contract calling for three pictures plui
options for two more.
Inked for the femme lead in the Allan "Rocky"
Lane western, "Salt Lake Raiders," was MARTHA
HYER. Others signed for the film, which Fred
Brannon megs for Producer Gordon Kay, are
MYRON HEALEY, BYRON FOULGER, ROY BAR-
CROFT and CLIFTON YOUNG.
20th Century-Fox
Studio lifted its option on the services of actress
ANNE BAXTER.
Actress KATHLEEN HUGHES was reoptioned for
another year.
Studio exercised its option on the services of actor
WILLIAM LUNDIGAN for another year.
United Artists
Producer I. G. Goldsmith inked HOWARD DaSILVA
for "Three Husbands," to be directed by Irving Reis.
Universal-International
GEORGE MURPHY, University of Southern Calilornia
football star, was set for "Peggy." SHIRLEE
ALLARD, GERALDINE KNAPP, ANN ROBIN and
HELENE ANGUS also were signed. Frederick da
Cordova directs. Inked for a supporting role was
MARJORIE BENNETT.
SPRING BYINGTON was signed for the title role
in Producer Robert Arthur's "Louisa."
Warners
RANDOLPH SCOTT and PATRICIA NEAL were sel
for the topline roles in Producer Soul Elkins' "Sugar
foot," to be directed by Edwin L. Marin. Alsc
signed were HOPE LANDIN, ARTHUR HUNNICUTT
HUGH SANDERS and RAYMOND MASSEY. S Z
"CUDDLES" SAKALL was assigned to the film.
Assigned to a leading role with Richard Todd,
Ruth Roman and Mercedes McCombridge in "Lightning
Strikes Twice" was ZACHARY SCOTT. RHYS
WILLIAMS was inked for a character role. King
Vidor directs for Producer Henry Blanke.
Cast for "Pretty Baby" were HUGH CHARLES,
JOE REVLIN and ED CLARK.
STEVE COCHRAN was assigned to star with Gaby
Andre in the Bryan Foy productic
to be directed by Andrew Stone.
Scripters
Columbia
HAROLD GREENE has been assigned the scrivenin-i
chores on "Isle of Samoa," forthcoming Jon Hail
starrer, and "David Harding's Secret Mission,"
sequel to "David Harding, Counterspy," now in
production. Wallace MacDonald will produce both
subjects.
Metro
GUY TROSPER was assigned to script "Insid.j
Straight," to be produced by Richard Goldstone.
HOWARD EMMETT ROGERS was inked to collaborate
with GERALD FAIRLEE on the script of
"Calling Bulldog Drummond."
Paramount
Producer Hal Wallis assigned CY HOWARD to
screenplay "That's My Boy" as a Dean Martin and
Jorry Lewis vehicle.
RKO Radio
STANLEY RUBIN was inked to a new producerwriter
contract, with his first assignment under the
dual pact to be "The Man He Found."
PHILIP YORDAN and DANIEL FUCHS were inked
to screenplay the Dana Andrews, Farley Granger
and Joan Evans starrer, "Billion
for Producer Samuel Goldwyn.
Dollar Baby,"
Producer Samuel Goldwyn signed MILTON KRIMS
to screenplay "Christmas Present" from a novel by
Margaret Cousins.
20th Century-Fox
CHARLES O'NEAL was assigned to screenplay tho
Kenneth Roberts novel, "Lydia Bailey," for Producer
Sol Siegel.
Set to screenplay the Vera Caspary novel, "No
Wedding Ring," for Producer Sol C. Siegel were
ROSE FRANKEN and WILLIAM BROWN MELONEY.
Story Buys
Columbia
"The Nice Mrs. Cary," romantic-comedy by Mar"
McCarthy, was acquired and will be produced by
William Dozier.
Acquired by Gene Autry Productions was "The
Mad Sheriff of Sanchez," historical yarn by Jack
Evans.
Independent
Producer Joe Kaufman purchased the Frank Stock
Ion short story, "The Lady and the Tiger," from
Roy Del Ruth Productions.
Lippert
Purchased was "Okinawa," an original screenplay
by Jack Gold.
Metro
Purchased and assigned to William H. Wright for
production was "Darling, I'm Stuck," original comedy
by Ruth Brooks Flippen, who will
play.
do the screen-
Purchased was the Frank Harris short story,
"Monies, the Matador." Ricardo Montalban will
star in the bullfight film, which Jack Cummings
produce.
will
Placed on William H. Wright's production slate
was "The Loco Motive," original by mystery writers
Craig Rice and Stuart Palmer. William Bowers is
screenplaying the property.
RKO Radio
"No Place Called Home," original by William R.
Cox and William R. Lipman, was purchased and
scheduled as a John Wayne starring western.
United Artists
"Island in the Sky," a novel authored by Ernest
K, Gann about the air transport command, was purchased
by Robert Stillman Productions. Gann will
screenplay his novel in collaboratk)n with Seton I.
Miller.
Universal-International
Purchased were "The Desert Hawk," adventure
tale by Aubrey Wisberg and Jack PoUexfen, and
"Fiddle-Foot," comedy by Harold Shumate.
Technically
Columbia
VINCENT FARRAR was set as cameraman for the
Vera Vague two-reeler, "Nurses Versus Hearses."
HENRY BATISTA was set as film editor on "David
Harding, Counterspy."
Eagle Lion
JOE NADEL will serve both as associate producer
and production manager on Producer Mori Briskin's
"The Jackie Robinson Story."
Independent
Toy Gornett and Bert Friedlob signed former ski
(Continued on following page)
64
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

—
Studios Join Campaign
For U,S, Tax Repeal
HOLLYWOOD—Following the announcement
from New York that major producers
will contribute space in tradepapers and
other media in the industry's antitax campaign,
major studios here have joined the
fight with the disclosure that the studio publicity
directors' committee of the Ass'n of
Motion Picture Producers is drawing up plans
to assist in the drive.
The publicists' group will coordinate its
efforts with those of its New York counterpart,
the MPAA advertising and publicity
directors' committee, which last week organized
to channel vigorous antitax activities.
Locally, the publicists' radio-television subcommittee
will be enlisted and the major
studio publicity departments will use all
available channels to carry the campaign to
the public.
Filming Unit to Havana
To Shoot 'Visa' Scenes
HOLLYWOOD—A unit headed by Director
Joseph Lewis will leave for Havana next
month, following completion of shooting on
the picture at the MOM studios in Culver
City, for location work on the Sam Marx
production "Visa." The crew will headquarter
at the Noticario Nacional studios in the
Cuban city.
Accompanying Lewis will be Cinematographer
Paul Vogel, actor Steven Geray and
other crew members.
Personnelities
(Continued from preceding page)
champion STEVE STANFORD as technical adviser lor
"Torch in the Wind," a Thor production-
Metro
HAFES JEE, Indian actor-producer, will serve as
technical adviser for "Kim."
Monogram
Crev^ for "A Modern Marriage" includes: WES-
LEY BARRY, assistant; WILLIAM SICKNER, camera;
TOM LAMBERT, mixer, and PHIL KAHN, cutter.
Technicians assigned to "Guns Roar in Rockhill"
are HARRY O. JONES, assisldnt: HARRY NEUMANN,
camera; JOHN KEAN, mixer, and JOHN C. FULLER,
cutter.
Paramount
Assignments for the Hal Wallis production, "My
Friend Irma Goes West," include CHICO DAY, assistant
to Director Hal Walker; RICHARD BLAYDON,
unit production manager, and HENRY BUMSTEAD,
art director. Signed as director of photography was
LEE GARMES.
20th Century-Fox
EDWARD J. SNYDER'S option as head ol the
process department was lilted.
Warners
Assigned as director of photography for "Sugarfoot"
was WILFRED M. CLINE. Assigned as assistant
to Director Edwin L. Marin on the film was
DON PAGE.
Set as film editor on "Lightning Strikes Twice" was
THOMAS REILLY.
Title Changes
Eagle Lion
"Deadfall" (LeMay-Templelon) to HIGH LONE-
SOME.
Republic
"Faces in the Sun" to MY SISTER'S DESTINY.
Paramount
"The Lie" to NO MAN OF HER OWN.
llC ^^^ '" ^° remotely related a document
^^ '^'^^ President's
lit!
tax message to Congress
there is evidence that the motion
picture industry's public relations consistently
have two strikes against them and that
Cinemania and its denizens are always available
as handy whipping boys.
Mr. Ti'uman attacked certain commercial
practices which he indicted as devices to circumvent
existing income tax laws. Among
them was a comparatively new productional
modus operandi through which producers,
directors, stars, etc., incorporate companies
for the purpose of making just one picture
and, allegedly, with the .sole object of having
profits— if any—from such films fall into
the classification of capital gains rather than
earned income, which latter is subject to s.
much higher tax.
Whether or not that is the case—and il;
probably is in many setups—it is entirel3'
legal and understandable. What's more, thci
practice is not limited to the film business.
There are scores of other fields—even unto
the nation's great universities—where tho
same or comparable procedure is regularly
employed.
Yet, rare indeed was the radio commentatoi*
or newspaper reporter who, in analyzing Mr.
Truman's requests for revised taxation, did
not highlight that part of his message which
touched upon the aforementioned facet of
filmmaking. Which widespread emphasis,
with many a snide connotation of purposeful
tax evasion, certainly did nothing to improve
Hollywood's tattered public relations.
There's nothing much that can be done
about it. It's just another example of Hollywood's
over-fed publicity chickens coming
home to roost; just another demonstration
that those who live by the space-snatching
sword must be prepared occasionally to be
-slashed by the same weapon.
So long as filmdom's great and near-great,
and that avid gentry to which they entrust
their public relations, constantly scramble
for space and air time in which to beat
the drums about their romances, their marriages,
their parenthood, their foibles and
their vagaries, it is most natural that the
le.ss admirable phases of their personal and
business lives must be subjected to the same
widespread limelighting.
A case in kind was the recent press preview
of MGM's "Key to the City" at Hollywood's
Egyptian Theatre. In an obvious effort
to make capital of the avalanche of publicity
which attended Clark Gable's marriage.
Leo's studio publicity department broadcast
to the public, through every available news
and gossip outlet, that Gable and his wife
could be seen by those fans fortunate enough
to be at the Egyptian on the night that the
feature was scheduled for a preview. Resultantly.
the theatre and its contiguous territory
was a shambles: and to add to the
all-is-confusion atmosphere of tho event.
Publicity Chieftain Howard Strickling and
his rover boys endowed the occasion with
klieg lights, blaring bands, scantily-clad usherettes
and many of the other accouterments
of a hoopla premiere. Not overlooked were
the glamor boys and girls, the agents, the
relatives, stooges and other members of the
genuflecting, "me-too" fringe. In fact,
there were so many of them that the reviewers
had to battle to get desirable seats,
and resultantly some of them walked out on
the clambake without seeing the picture.
Possibly all of the excitement and tumult
could have been considered wise exploitation
on behalf of the picture had the event been
a premiere open to the public. But this was
announced to the film reviewers as a "press
preview." It wound up as anything else but.
In toto. the madhouse evening, regardless of
how it scored in the exploitation column,
came a woeful cropper as concerns Leo's press
relations.
Fortunately for Strickling and staff, the
Gable starrer is sufficiently excellent, entertainment-wise,
to transcend the disgruntlement
which their mismanagement engendered,
although it is entirely possible that
some of the irked celluloid appraisers will
not be as lavish in their praise of the offering
as they might have been had they not
been pushed around.
P. S. At press time, it had not been determined
whether or not any fan had seen
Gable and frau.
STOP-THE-PRESS DEPARTMENT
(Samuel Goldwyn Division)
Advises elegant Al Vaughan. "the photograph
of Farley Granger's mother that is
used in Samuel Goldwyn's 'The Edge of
Doom' is really Farley Granger's mother."
Came Thursday morning and Praise Pundit
Perry Lieber wished he was dead—or in
Stromboli. The picture by the same name,
which had been accorded an extraordinary
amount of doubtfully-valuable prerelease
publicit.v—because of Ingrid and her loves
had become a reviewing football. First, one
of the press associations caught the opus at
a sneak preview in Long Beach and syndicated
a coast-to-coast review—far from favorable—thereon.
Irked by such gun-jumping, a
Hollywood daily tradepaper, which happened
to have had a representative at the sneak,
violated tradepaper- producer agreements and
printed its review of the picture—again, far
from laudatory—long before RKO Radio was
even thinking about showing the feature at
a scheduled press preview.
What now, li'l Lieber?
All of Which happened to Praise Pundit
Perry just as he returned from a business
trip to Boston, in which city he was a visitor
at the time of the sensational $1,500,000
robbery. Lieber's alibi: He wouldn't have
needed a Halloween mask. And. besides.
Arch Reeve's opinion of himself as a gin
player makes him almost as soft a touch.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4. 1950 65

—
AoHcCoit ^c^kont
n FTER MANY MONTHS of negotiation the
Ass'n of Cine Technicians has served
notice on the producers that it will not be
included in a new wages agreement that the
British Film Producers Ass'n has been trying
to arrange. For months the producers'
representatives have been working out an
agreement which will remove many of the
present anomalies and which will obviate
By JOHN SULLIVAN
technical staff are likely to be overlooked
in wage discussions on craft grades and unskilled
labor.
There may be some truth in their reasoning.
It is a fact, though, that ACT has
always been difficult to include in any joint
trade body. As an organization it has always
been over -conscious of the fact that it is
the smallest of the unions working in the
industry but is, also, the key one since its
members might be described as the brains
of the industry rather than the hands—the
directors, cameramen, sound technicians, art
directors, etc. This argument may be a sound
the necessity of three separate agreements
with the three unions in the film industry
ACT, the National Ass'n of Theatrical and
Kine Employes (which looks after makeup,
wardrobe and craft grades) and the Electrical
Trades Union, which represents the one but the fact remains that ACT'S actions
electricians. To this end a body was formed in withdrawing from their joint wage agreement
called the Joint Industrial Council and on
cannot fail to have a bad effect on labor
this served the nominees of each union and relations.
of the producers. A draft agreement had
been prepared which covered all grades WITH THE BOXOFFICE just recovering
working in the industry, technicians, craftsmen
from the bad slump caused by last summer's
and electricians, but at the last moment hot weather, exhibitors are now facing an-
ACT called a general meeting of its members
other three bad weeks. Between now and
and a resolution was passed that the the end of February the country will be
technicians would refuse to be included in suffering from general election fever and
this agreement.
with political meetings taking place every
ACT'S members include what might be night in every district in Britain receipts
described as strictly film technicians, in will dive again. Some cinemas are making
other words men and women who could not arrangements to stay open until 2 a. m. on
find employment in the trade outside of the night of the poll to flash results.
the film industry. NATKE members, plasterers,
Among the prospective MPs are 22 men
carpenters, etc., could easily find em-
and women with some associations in the
ployment if every studio closed and the electricians
film industry, 18 of whom are standing as
of ETU could also be absorbed into Labor candidates and four as Conservatives.
other unions. ACT, therefore, claims that a Among the new candidates is Sidney Lewis,
joint agreement with the other two unions director of public relations with the Associated
will affect the professional status of the technician
British Cinemas circuit, who is stand-
and that the high wages paid to senior ing as Labor candidate for S. E. Leicester,
Film Directors Win
Pay Hike, Guild Shop
HOLLYWOOD — Culminating
many
months of negotiation, a new eight-year
bargaining agreement has been reached by
the Screen Directors Guild and major producers,
replacing a pact which expired in
May 1948. At a general meeting, SDG members
approved the new contract, which gives
the organization a 100 per cent guild shop,
an increase in minimum salaries of 21 per
cent, and better consideration in the matter
of advertising credits.
Minimum wages are boosted from $347.50
to $420 weekly on freelance, week-to-week or
contract deals, while a $500 weekly minimum
is established on single-picture contracts involving
a picture budgeted at $200,000 or more.
The new ticket, yet to be officially approved
by major producer representatives,
has provisions for arbitration and conciliation
of disputes and sets up option periods of three
months initially, and then not less than six
months thereafter.
Browning, Mont., Exhibitor
Asks Relief on Rentals
SALT LAKE CIT'Y—Relief on film rentals
is being sought by the exhibitor in Browning,
Mont., a small town near the Canadian border.
In a letter to one branch manager (Tom
McMahon, Republic) the theatreman enclosed
clippings of the desperate plight of the residents
of the town and asked what could be
done about adjustment in rentals. The operator
pointed out that many of the residents
are Indians and the desperate cold—50 below
on some days—has dealt a body blow to the
showhouse operations.
The operator pointed out that conditions
in general are "terrible" in the area. The
plight of the Indians especially has been
brought to the nation's attention in hearings
in Congress.
American in Butte, Mont.,
Is Destroyed by Fire
BUTTE, MONT.—The American Theatre
here, controlled by Fox Intermountain Theatres,
was destroyed by fire early Wednesday
morning (1). The fire was the second at a
Fox house here in the last three months, an
earlier one having destroyed the Park Theatre.
No loss of life or injuries were caused by
AT EQUIPMENT FIRM CONCLAVE—The current year, marking the company's
was
quarter-century of operations, will be a good one from the business standpoint, it
agreed by executives and branch managers of National Theatre Supply when they met
in Hollywood for their annual sales meeting January 23, 24 and 25. Among those on
hand to view the latest in theatre equipment distributed by the firm:
Top panel, left photo: Oscar Ciniquv. Seattle manager; Heaton Randall, San
Francisco; J. E. Currie (in background) of the home office. New York; Lloyd Owenby,
Los Angeles; J. J. Morgan and J. B. Stone, Denver. Right photo: Oscar Oldknow, vicepresident
and convention host; Arthur J, Palmer, Ampro Corp.; Herb Griffin, International
Projector Corp., and W. E. Green, NTS president.
Bottom panel: Glen Slipper, Omaha manager; Lloyd Owenby, Los Angeles; Ralph
Fries, Philadelphia. Right photo: William Stohl; Knute Williams; Glen SUpper,
Omaha; Lloyd Owenby, Los Angeles; Heaton Randall, San Francisco; J. J, Morgan,
Uenver.
West Coast Mono. Heads
To Kansas City Meeting
the fire Wednesday morning, according to
Bob Anderson, Fox Intermountain city manager
here.
LOS ANGELES—Howard Stubbins, Monogram
west coast franchise holder; M. J. E.
McCarthy, local manager, and Mel Hulling,
San Francisco supervisor, were among those
slated to attend the second of two regional
meetings of Monogram-Allied Artists branch
managers, February 4, 5 in Kansas City.
M. H. Goldstein, general sales manager, was
to preside.
First regional session was held in New York
January 28, 29 with President Steve Broidy
and Vice-President Harold Mirisch attending.
66
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

—
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operator's riding
dolly.
For complete money-saving details
write or wire today to
MODERN MFG. CO.
160 N. FAIR OAXS AVE. PASADENA I, CALIF.
BOXOFHCE WANT ADS PAY
7wo i'lmd Cards Hefty 170 Per Cent
Despite Rainy Los Angeles Weekend
LOS ANGELES—The marines have landed
and. so far as local first run revenues are
concerned, have the situation well in hand.
In its first general release engagement in
five showcases Republic's "Sands of Iw'o
Jima" hauled in a hefty 170 per cent, far
overshadowing its competition.
(Average Is 100)
Chinese, Los Angeles, Loyola, Uptown, Wilshire
Sands of Iwo Jimo (Rep), 2nd run. Belle ol
Old Mexico (Rep) 170
Culver, Ritz, Globe, Studio City, Vogue—Woman
in Hiding (U-I); The Rugged O'Riordana (U-I) 125
Downtown, Hollywood Paromounts-The Heiress
(Para); Hoedown (Col), 2nd wk 8C
Egyptian, Loews Slate—The Red Danube (MGM);
Tension (MGM) 100
Fine Arts—Spring in Park Lane (EL) 110
Four Star—My Foolish Heart (RKO), 6th wk 80
Globe, El Rey, Ins, Guild, Belmonl-Pirates ol
Copri (EC); The Flying Saucer (EC)
Music Halls, Forum— D. O. A. (UA); Bomba on
90
Ponlher Island (Mono), 2nd wk
Orpheum—The Wolf Hunters (Mono), 2nd run;
100
eight acts vaudeville SO
Pontages, Hillstreet-Deodly Is the Female
(Mono); Storm Over Wyoming (RKO) 80
Warners Hollywood, Downtown, Wiltern—Montana
(WB), 2nd wk 90
"Mrs. Mike' Leads Seattle
Trade With 120 Per Cent
SEATTLE—Although snow and cold continued
to cut heavily into grosses, theatregoers
seemed to be getting used to it.
Blue Mouse—The Inspector General (WB), Bomba
on Panther Island (Mono), 4lh d. t. wk
Coliseum— Thelma lordon (Para); Cowboy and
the Prizelighler (EL)
95
100
Filth Avenue—The Heiress (Para); The Blonde
Bandit (Rep), 2nd wk 95
Liberty-Roseanna McCoy (RKO); Hollywood
VarieHes (LP) 110
Music Box— All the King's Men (Col); Girls'
School (Col), 5th d. t. wk 85
Music Hall—Mrs. Mike (UA); Apache Chief (LP),
2nd wk 120
Orpheum—Montana (WB); Square Donee lubilee
(LP), 2nd wk 90
Paramount—Dancing in the Dark (20th-Fox);
Call of the Forest (LP) 80
"Battleground' Scores 200
In San Francisco Opening
SAN FRANCISCO—"Battleground" chalked
up a massive 200 per cent in its opening at
the Warfield here, setting the pace for newcomers.
"Samson and Delilah" registered 175
per cent at the St. Francis.
Esquire—All the King's Men (Col),, 4th d t. wk ...150
Fox—Montana (WB). The Blonde Bandit (Rep),
2nd wk 90
Golden Gate—Port ol New York (EL); Square
Dance lubilee (LP) 9U
Orpheum—South Sea Sinner (U-I); Undertow
(U-1) 135
Paramount—The Inspector General
Coronado (Rep)
(WB); Bells
o( 135
St Francis—Samson and Delilah (Para) 175
ilale—Thelma Jordon (Para); Cowboy and the
Prizefighter (EL), 2nd d. t. wk
United Artists—Mrs. Mike (UA), 2nd wk
85
140
United Nations—Prince of Foxes (20lh-Fox);
Hollywood Varities (LP), 4th d. t. .wk 80
Warlield—Battleground (MGM) 200
"Battleground' Grosses 195
To Pace Portland
PORTLAND — Heavy snows and cold
weather bit heavily into grosses for downtown
houses but helped steady neighborhoods.
Broadway—South Sea Sinner (U-I); Once Mote.
My Darling (U-I) - 12(1
Music Box— All the King's Men (Col); And Baby
Makes Three (Col), 2nd d, t. wk 145
Oriental—The Snake Pit (20th-Fox); A Letter to
Three Wives (2Qth-Fox), 2nd runs 85
Orpheum—Whirlpool (20lh-Fox): Bodyhold (Col). 105
Paramount—Tell It to the Judge (Col); This Was
a Woman (20lh-Fox) 95
Plavhouse—Thelma lordon (Para); Girls" School
(Col), 2nd d t. wk 100
United Artists— Battleground (MGM) 195
'Delilah' Packs Denham
At Denver at Upped Prices
DENVER—"Sam.son and Delilah," with
prices upped to 74 cents and $1.20, packed
the Denham to overflow most of the week.
Aladdin, Bluebird—Sands of Iwo lima (Rep);
Old Mexico (Rep), 5th d wk 130
Belle of I.
Broactway- Adam's Rib (MGM), filh wk 105
Denham—Samson and Delilah (Para) 300
Denver, Esquir^ . bb^-r— Dancing in the Dark
(20th-Fox); Treasure of Monte Cristo (LP) 150
Orpheum—Tension (MGM) 90
Pararnount—Whirlpool (20th-Fox); Hollywood
Varieties (LP)
Rialto—Montana (WB); There's a Girl in My
110
Heort (Mono), 4th d. t. wk
Tobor—Radar Secret Service (LP), and stage
125
..125
Vogue—The Quiet One (M-B); Francis the First
(M-B) .130
Complete Sound Systems
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DELUXE DRIVE-IN AT COMPTON
IS 15th IN CABALLERO CHAIN
Nearly Ready for Opening
Is 800-Seat New Crest
At Salt Lake City
COMPTON, CALIF. — The new $350,000
Compton Drive-In was opened here recently
with a Western Hall of Fame stage show in
which major Hollywood western stars participated.
The drive-in, owned and operated by
Pacific Drive-In Theatres, Inc.. headed by
Charles A. Caballero, is located at Rosecrans
boulevard between Long Beach and Atlantic.
It covers a 20-acre tract and boasts an allpaved
1,000-car parking space.
Mayor Harry T. Laugharn welcomed film
notables over the microphones of three local
radio stations. The program was built around
headliners from the newly organized Western
Hall of Fame, whose chairman Tim Spencer
acted as head man. Members of the Hall of
Fame presented special plaques to veteran
cowboy heroes Hoot Gibson and Col. Tim Mc-
Coy as part of the program.
Among stars appearing in the show were
Dale Evans, Carolina Cotton, Eddie bean,
Andy Parker, and the Plainsmen, the Sons
of the Pioneers, Doye O'Dell of television
fame, Russell Hayden, Andy Clyde. Don Barry.
Preston Foster. Rod Cameron. Andy Devine.
Monte Hale, Rex Allen, Reno Browne and
Richard Foote.
Free bubble gum was distributed to the
kids and an 8xl0-inch photo of the stars was
given to adults as souvenirs.
The Compton is the 15th in the Pacific
Drive-In chain, in which Caballero is associated
with G. A. Diamond, William Forman
and J. H. Tingle. The circuit opened its first
1 oRG^''
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drive-in in September 1934. Other houses are
located in Long Beach, Orange. El Monte,
Gardena. Burbank. Van Nuys, Reseda, Bell
Gardens, San Bernardino, San Pedro, Inglewood
and Los Angeles.
Feature of the new drive-in is its 85-foot
tower and a front mural which depicts a
fleet of Viking ships. The mural was painted
by Mexican artist Arnolda Rubio. The drivein
has a large concessions stand from which
a staff of 25 specially trained men and women
can serve 1,000 persons in less than 15 minutes.
There is a capacious playground for
children with merry-go-round, swings, slides
and sandboxes and where a supervisor is in
charge at all times.
Landscaping of the 20 acres was in charge
of Henry c. Soto Corp. Harry E. Olmstead
is manager of the new Compton. Olmstead
has a background of some 20 years in the
theatre industry. He spent 14 years with
Warners Theatres in New York before coming
to the west coast. Frank M. Diaz is supervisor
of the entire circuit of drive-ins.
Salt Lake Building Accelerated
SALT LAKE CITY—The pace of new theatre
openings in the Salt Lake City exchange
area continued at top speed, with the Crest
Theatre being the latest to schedule an
opening.
Owned and operated by Crest, Inc., the
showhouse is situated about five miles from
the center of Salt Lake's downtown section
in the rapidly expanding southeast residential
area. It has been built to accommodate 800
patrons, with parking space being provided
for several hundred cars.
New circular lines have been used in the
interior design of the two-story building of
brick and native flagstone.
The theatre will have a second run policy,
Manager Rex Christenseh said.
MR. THEATRE OWNER!
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waiting. List your theatre with us and we
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LOS ANGELES
por the part they played in the successful
Toys for Tots campaign, sponsored by the
marine corps reserve to provide playthings
for underprivileged children during the last
Christmas season, more than 300 southern
California theatres have been cited by the
reserve corps. Tribute was paid by Maj. Gen,
M. H. Silverthorn. reserve director, to Charles
P. Skouras, on behalf of Fox West Coast;
E. L. DePatie, representing the Warner circuit;
and Gus A. Metzger, board chairman,
Southern California Theatre Owners Ass'n
Blumberg of Principal Theatres
left for San Francisco on a business junket.
L. J. "Buckie" Williams, exploiteer for Lippert
Productions, and Frank Scheindler, local
exchange manager, planed to Phoenix to set
up the campaign for the late-February world
premiere there of Lippert's "The Baron of
Arizona" ... A visitor from the New York
office was Lou Astor. Columbia sales executive
. . . Bob Duningan. theatre operator in
Blythe. is building a 500-car drive-in and
recreation center on the outskirts of city.
Something of a precedent was set when the
Downtown and Hollywood Paramounts began
their day-date run of "Samson and Delilah."
Doors were opened at 9:45 a.m. instead of the
usual noon schedule . . . Mr. and Mrs. Dick
Lemucci have reopened their hewly renovated
Granada in Bakersfield . . . James Banducci's
River Theatre in Oildale and Arvin in Arvin
have been added to the client list by Earle
Johnson's booking service. Banducci is taking
time off for a fishing trip in Mexico.
A luncheon threesome included Al Foreman,
Seattle theatre owner, and Gus Diamond, executive
of Pacific Drive-Ins, with Al Taylor,
local manager for Paramount . Wolf
. . . Alex Cooperman. Eagle
of Panchon & Marco headed for Honolulu
for a vacation
Lion office manager, passed out the cigars
to celebrate the coming of Julie Ellen, a baby
daughter . Sinift has set Arthur Lang
as manager of his Del Mar Theatre.
Bill Roberts has been appointed manager
of FWC's Los Angeles, first run deluxer,
assuming the post vacated when Robert F.
Duke was killed by a hit-and-run driver.
Roberts switches from the Fox Wilshire in
Beverly Hills. Harry Marx transfers from the
Carthay Circle, temporarily closed, to the
Wilshire.
%0^
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68
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

. . Western
: February
. . Harry
. . Barney
. . Ken
SAN FRANCISCO Twelve FWC Theatres
T ife in Pleasanton" was shown on the
screen of the Roxy Theatre in Pleasanton.
The picture was made up of scenes taken
in the town by Robert Allen, representative
of Reelife Pi-oductions of Hollywood . . . Returning
home from the U-I convention in St.
Louis were B. Rose, district manager; Abe
Swerdlow, branch manager; Jerry Slutsky,
Tony Grabowy and Richard Colbert, salesmen,
and Eddie Smythe, office manager.
Betty Gamble, booker at U-I, is a partner
in the 988 club at Sutter and Hyde street . . .
Two Fox West Coast managers were shifted
to new posts. Herman Kersken will return
to San Francisco and Fay Reader will move
over to Oakland. It is also rumored that
PWC will acquire new Peninsula theatres.
Dave Cantor, RKO publicist, was in town
. . . Lou Singer, manager of the Fox Theatre,
was ill . . . "Samson and Delilah" is breaking
records at the St. Francis . Sarver,
Drive-In Theatre Mfg. Co.. was seen along
the Row . Theatrical Equipment
Co. has disposed of its Navion aircraft to
William David for use in his business as industrial
designer.
Charles Gubser, associated in the new
Showboat Drive-In, to be opened this spring
in Tracy, was on the Row introducing Manager
Fllice of the drive-in . . . S. F. Burns
of Modern Theatre Supply, Seattle, was here
for a few days . . . H. R. Maag, RCA western
manager, has been appointed to vice-presidency
of the company. Robert Schultz, RCA
local representative, returned from New York
and Philadelphia.
After a recent standout job on the Martha
Logan cooking cla.sses at the Orpheum, Graham
Kislingbury, publicist for North Coast
Theatres, followed with a campaign on "My
Foolish Heart" at the United Artists. He
selected five local secretaries and allowed
them to follow their slightest whim by making
it possible for them to do whatever they
wanted to. The four local papers covered the
activities fully.
BLOCKBUSTER
Under UA Banner
LOS ANGELES—Management and operation
of 12 Fox West Coast Theatres was
taken over Wednesday (1) by the United Artists
Theatre circuit under terms of the federal
court decree, according to Pat DeCicco. operating
head of the California division of
United Artists Theatres Circuit, Inc.
DeCicco listed these theatres: Four Star
and United Artists. Ix)s Angeles; United Artists,
Pasadena; Capitol and California, Glendale;
United Artists, Inglewood and Long
Beach; Long Beach, Long Beach; Mission,
San Jose; Varsity. Palo Alto; California,
Richmond, and United Artists, Berkeley.
He said the move is the last step in the
complete severance of the joint interests of
Fox West Coast and United Artists.
SALT LAKE CITY
"Cmak Smith jr. has been transferred from
salesman to office manager at Monogram-
Allied Artists. He succeeds Al Mabey who will
manage Film Classics affairs, succeeding the
late Dave McElhinney . Rose, new
district manager at U-I. conferred with the
local staff. He was accompanied by his predecessor,
Foster Blake, who has been promoted
to western division manager . Levy,
Kansas City, has been named new office manager
at U-I. He was in Kansas City this week
to bring his family to Salt Lake.
Vosco W. Call, Brigham City, theatre owner
and operator, has been elected president of
the Brigham City Chamber of Commerce.
He has been active in civic affairs for several
years . , . The UA office force has been realigned
since the death of Jo.seph Madsen,
office manager, Carroll Ti-owbridge, manager,
announced. Duties and responsibilities were
shifted in the realignment, Trowbridge said.
Vincent Gilhool, Bill Vaughan and the
Huish-Gilhool circuit staff have moved into
new offices at 140 South Second East street,
across the street from MGM offices, to put
them nearer Filmrow.
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BOXOFFICE :
4, 1950 69

. . . January
. .
. . Dick
. . Norman
SEATTLE
\]l7illiam H. Thedford, Evergreen vice-president,
celebrated his birthday January 27
23 is quite a day for the Jack
Hamaker family. Hamaker, manager of the
Fifth Avenue, was born on that date, so was
his 2-year-old son, and this January Mrs.
Hamaker gave birth to a daughter—on the
Helen Rucker is back home after
23 . . .
spending a short time in Providence hospital
Sam Siegel of Columbia flew to
. . . Denver for exploitation work.
Max Hadfield, who has been operating a
theatre in Pullman, Wash., has joined the
EL sales staff as salesman for eastern Washington
. . . Neal Walton came in from San
Francisco . . . Bill Shartin of FC and Fredi
Shartin marked their 28th wedding anniversary
January 22 . . E. R. Bechtel, on
.
Filmrow during the past 14 years with B. P.
Shearer, has been transferred to the San
Francisco branch. Joe Berringer of the
drapery department also has been shifted
there.
William H. Thedford, Carl Mahne, Frank
Christie, Vic Gauntlett. Lowell Parmentier
and Bob Haase, Evergreen executives, will
leave February 11 for Los Angeles to attend
the annual meeting of National Theatres ,
Clint Wineholt, manager of the Liberty
Theatre, in cooperation with Joe Longo of
RKO, posted every snowbank in downtown
Seattle with signs on "Roseanna McCoy"
for an effective ballyhoo stunt.
SPRING HAS SPRUNG,
THE GRASS HAS RE,
Things are booming
in the
DRIVE-IN BIZ /
The most advanced and newest
in equipment— designed especially
for Drive-in Theatre use, by
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337 GOLDEN GATE AVE. • HE 1-8302
SAN FRANCISCO 2, CALIF.
C. W. Motris, Pres. ; Wayne Mayhew, Vice-Pres.
So. California Ass'n
To Gather Tuesday
LOS ANGELES—Plans to formulate panels
to be set up for the discussion and interchange
of ideas for the mutual benefit of its
members will be discussed at a general membership
meeting of the Southern California
Theatre Owners Ass'n February 7 in the
Variety clubrooms of the Ambassador hotel.
G. A. Metzger, board chairman, will preside.
The proposed panels would explore various
exhibitor problems including business conditions,
operating -expenses, merchandising,
ways and means of "combating the apparent
apathy of theatregoers," and television and
its effect on grosses.
Additionally, Harry Vinnicof, chairman of
the labor committee, will report on negotiations
with projectionists lATSE Local 150 for
a new bargaining agreement, and Sherrill
Corwin, a vice-president of the Theatre Owners
of America, will discuss the TOA board
meeting which he attended in January in
New York.
North Bend City Council
Enacts Censorship Law
NORTH BEND, ORE. — The city
council
has adopted an ordinance providing for censoring
of motion pictures, theatrical productions
and other entertainment through a fiveman
board. The ordinance prohibits showing
"of anything obscene, indecent or immoral;
any gruesome, revolting or disgusting scene
or any subject which tends to disrupt public
morals."
Postponed Till Feb. 14
HOLLYWOOD — Because of a crowded
court calendar, another postponement, this
time to February 14, was ordered by Federal
Judge William C. Mathes for trial date of the
multimillion dollar damage suit filed by the
Conference of Studio Unions against the
major producers and the lATSE. The action,
originally brought in July 1947, alleges the
producers and lA conspired to deprive CSU
members of their studio jobs as an aftermath
of the 1946 studio strike, in which the
CSU was involved.
Valentine Rayburg Rites
LOS ANGELES—Funeral services were held
in the Wee Kirk o' the Heather for Valentine
Rayburg, 78, retired theatre owner who died
at his home here. Rayburg is survived by a
sister and his son Gerald.
THEATRE /ALE/
.ABAKELIAN>^^
PHONE PROSPECT S-71'^6
FOR CAPACITY BUSINESS
use
HOSTESS
A L U M I N U M W A R E
"The year's most outstanding premium deal"
METRO PREMIUM COMPANY
441 Eddy St. GRaystone 410S San Francisco, Calif.
DENVER
projectionists Local 230 re-elected J. W.
Dooley president: L. A. Barefield, vicepresident;
Dan M. Kelly, treasurer; R. E.
Waller, secretary, and Charles P. Weber, business
agent. The board of trustees includes
H. B. Banzhaf, Allen E. Wilson and G. E.
Campbell . . . Colosseum of Motion Picture
Salesmen has re-elected George Tawson,
20th-Fox, president; Al Brandon, vice-president,
and Bruce Marshall, Columbia, secretary-treasurer.
Among those from Denver attending the
opening of the Gila, Ed Ward's new theatre
in Silver City, N. M., were Fred ICnil, Ward
Pennington, Paul Almeyer and Dick Lutz
. . . William Keith, UA district manager,
conferred with Clarence Olson, local manager,
and together they called on major
accounts . . . William Prass, publicity director
for Metro, has returned from a lengthy
trip through Utah, Idaho and Montana in
the interests of "Battleground."
Dave Cockrill, managing director of the
Denham, is out of the hospital where he
went when he was threatened with pneumonia
. . . Foster Blake, U-I division manager,
and Barney Rose, district manager,
were here conducting a sales meeting at the
exchange . Probstein, owner of the
State, has returned from a six-week vacation
trip to New York • and Florida, and is
sporting a million-dollar tan.
Fox Intermountain Theatre notes: Frank
H. Ricketson, president, has been re-elected
chairman of the board of the Denver Community
Chest, and his aide Robert Selig
has been named a vice-president of the
chest. Selig has just returned from an extended
vacation in the southwest and to Old
Mexico . . . Hall Baetz, Denver city manager,
went to New York to attend the second
annual showmanship conference of 20th-
Fox . . . Jack McGee, Montana district
manager, will become a grandfather this
summer when his son Jack jr. becomes a
father . Conley, La Junta city manager,
is in a Denver hospital suffering from
ulcers . . . Harry Huffman, retired Denver
city manager, and Mrs. Huffman left for
Hawaii where they will spend several weeks
. . . Henry Westerfield, Las Cruces, N. M.,
city manager, is recovering nicely from an
operation in the Las Cruces hospital.
Betty Craig, drama editor and motion
picture critic of the Denver Post, recovered
from a serious illness in time to be able to
attend the world premiere of "The Sundowners"
at Amarillo, Tex. This is the first
world premiere she has attended outside of
Denver . . . Fihnrow visitors: Don Lewis,
Holyoke; Harry McDonald, Torrington, Wyo.;
Joseph LaConte, Fort Collins; Mrs. Marie
Goodhand, Kimball, Neb.
New Sound Installed
SOAP LAKE, WASH.—New Super Simplex
sound equipment has been installed at the
Lake Theatre here.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE
PRE-FABRICATED STEEL SCREEN TOWERS &
PATENTED PRE-FAB. STEEL SCREEN FACING
This Facing eliminates moisture bleeding through Screen or
warping. Rust-proofed. Grips paint as if it were fused on.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO.
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Kansas City. Mo.
70 BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950

ii
I
Tell Ciiy, Ind., House
Gets Facelifting
TELL CITY, IND.—A year-long rehabilitation
progi-am is nearing completion at the
Ohio Tlieatre, operated by the Settos circuit.
A few major changes remain to be done,
which will be annoimced, Tom Morris, manager,
said when they are started.
Renovation started with the front and has
gone through the entire building. Added
were a new boxoffice of plate gla.ss and glass
blocks, tile facing on the front wall, and an
apartment and office for the manager on the
second floor. Directly back of the boxoffice
a glass-block candy and popcorn stand was
installed where purchases may be made from
the outside or the lobby.
The walls and ceiling of the foyer are of
weldwood cut into squares and given a
checkerboard two-tone effect. New restrooms
have been built on the sides of the lobby in
space formerly occupied by barber and beauty
shops. The main auditorium also has the
checkerboard two-tone walls, and a Celotex
tile ceiling. The stage has been moved back
12 feet and reconstructed entirely of cement
blocks. Cove lighting was installed in the
interior.
The projection booth was modernized and
re-equipped. A Carrier air conditioning system
was installed.
Eden Theatre Firm Sues
For Ruling on Lease
ST. LOUTS—The Eden Theatre Co.,
lessee
of the 5,000^seat Fox Theatre, has filed suit
in circuit court seeking a ruling on a clause
in its lease on the big house. The suit names
the owner of the building. Fox-St. Louis Properties.
The clause provides for payment of
the rent on a percentage of the gross receipts
in addition to a flat rental of $104,000
a year.
The owner of the property claims an additional
$4,000 rent is due for the quarter ending
Sept. 30, 1949. The Eden company says
nothing is due because the Fox was closed
from July 1 to August 18.
The 15-year lease was entered into on June
17. 1936. The Eden Tlieatre Co. is a subsidiary
of Fanchon & Marco.
Rialto, Chicago, Resumes
Burlesque With Films
CHICAGO—The Rialto Theatre here, for
many years a burlesque house but operated
more recently under a straight film house,
resumed tabloid stage bills with screen attractions
January 27. Charles Harris, former
St. Louis showman, heads the Chicago Operating
Co., new operators of the theatre. The
house was closed for one week for remodeling
and redecorating. Four stage shows daily now
are being offered, with a Saturday midnight
performance.
Seek Civil Rights Action
ST. LOUIS—Sidney Redmond and the Rev.
Jasper C. Caston. Negro Republican, members
of the board of aldermen, had an unsuccessful
attempt to take the controversial civil
rights bill from the hands of the board's legislation
committee and bring it before the
entire aldermanic group, contending the
committee is trying to evade voting on the
bill. The vote was 22 to 4.
Empty Seats in Theatre
Not Always Film Fault
POPLAR BLUPP, MO. — The blame for
empty seats in many theatres should not always
be laid on Hollywood. Herb Bennin, St.
Louis MGM manager, declared in an address
at a regional meeting of the Motion Picture
Theatre Owners of St. Louis, Eastern Missouri
and Southern Illinois here last week (24).
"There are many pictures of merit that are
not top films, yet they are excellent entertainment
by any standard, good bread and
butter merchandise which the public will buy
if we find ways and means of letting it knowabout
them," Bennin said. "Here is where the
challenge to exhibitors becomes a real one.
Advertising always has been the life blood
of our business. Recently I saw a theatre ad
in a newspaper which incoi-porated the slogan:
'Happiness for sale!' It certainly had
great public appeal.
SIMILAR THEATRES. VARIED GROSSES
"In my position as manager of a film exchange,
I see the same sized theatres in comparable
drawing areas, and one exhibitor
grosses twice as much as the other with the
same picture. Only then do I realize that
showmanship is not dead. Slowly but surely
the man 'who thinks he can' replaces the
man 'who will not even try.'
"The public will turn out to see a worthwhile
picture in a comfortable theatre, providing
it has been properly advertised. We
have a great responsibility to the people of
our communities, so it is up to the exhibitor
to provide clean, comfortable surroundings
and a friendly atmosphere in his theatre.
"Make your theatre the focal point for
every civic function. Offer your theatre as
often as possible in cooperation with schools
and civic clubs, when you are active in your
community, many of the people who today
are not regular patrons will become motion
picture conscious and you will get their patronage."
President Tom Edwards of the Edwards &
Plumlee circuit, Farmington, Mo., presided
during the luncheon. At the head table also
were Mayor J. W. Robinson, Poplar Bluff;
Charles Weeks jr.. Dexter, and Bill Griffin,
Cairo, co-chairmen of arrangements, and
Myra Stroud, St. Louis, secretary.
REPORTS ON TOA SESSION
At the opening executive session, Edwards
gave a detailed report on the recent TOA
board meeting in Wa,shington, commenting
on such topics as television, repeal of the admission
tax. COMPO and other matters of
interest to the exhibitor.
Lou Ansell. chairman of the board, reviewed
activities of the St, Louis TOA group during
the last year. He mentioned the legislative
efforts in St. Louis. Jefferson City and elsewhere.
He praised the work of Myra Stroud,
secretary, and complimented her on her work
as editor of the new official bulletin.
Other speakers included Les Grand, St.
Louis district manager for the Confection
Cabinet Corp., who talked on "Leave a Sweet
Taste in Their Mouths."
Edwards said that a similar regional meeting
would be held in southern Illinois.
Among those registered for the meeting, all
from Mis.souri, were the following:
St. Loui.s—Mrs. Be.ss Schulter, Mrs. Mildred
LaTour, Arthur Kalbfell. Morty Gottlieb, William
Guinan, Paul Krueger. Tommy James,
Hugh Graham, Harry Haas, Harry Hoff, Arch
Hosier, Edward Arthur, Jack Harris, Tom
Canavan, Dave Arthur, A. L. Matreci, Gordon
Halloran, Gene Fitzgibbons. Bob Jones, Mary
Karches, Clarence Kaimann, Nat Steinberg.
Lutcsville—Truman Lewis.
Willow Springs—R. D. Fisher.
Morehouse—W. H. Dillon.
Sikeston—Pete Medley.
Charleston—Dick Logan.
Lebanon—P. L. Lowe and Ben Donaldson.
Doniphan—Willis Donald Dowdy and Thel
Chilton.
Perryville—Val Mercier. Donald Dunze.
Mrs. John Kiefner and Arnold Counts,
Fredericktown—L. A. Mercier.
Risco—H. Denziler.
Washington—R. A. Marchbank.
Houston—W. R. Elliott and Hugh Houston.
Union—Bill Williams.
Maiden—Helen Fergu.son.
Piedmont—Jeff Jefferis.
Festus—Harry Miller.
Poplar Bluff—The Rev. Daniel I. Daly and
Jack Bizzell.
Among those from Illinois were Ted Bloomer,
Belleville; J. H. Bizzel, Dongola, and W. M.
Griffin. Cairo.
Milwaukee Towne Case
Adds List of Objections
CHICAGO—Counsel for the film companies
in the Milwaukee Towne Theatre case have
filed objections to plaintiff's proposed findings
of fact in Judge John Barnes court. A
40-page booklet lists 34 objections. In answer
to the proposed conclusion that it is lawful
for the defendant film companies to license
films for successions of runs, selecting customers
for each and granting reasonable
clearance between runs, the film companies
contend the burden is on the Towne Theatre
to prove its claim of conspiracy upon which
its suit for damages rests.
Fox Lake Towne Theatre
Due to Open Next March
FOX LAKE, ILL.—The Towne Theatre, a
575-seater being constructed by Fox Lake
Enterprises, a corporation of local residents.
is expected to be completed around mid-
March, according to Robert Bartelt, an officer.
Steel girders have been put in place and
the construction crew has been working on
the walls and celling.
A minimum of wood is being used in the
building. Walls will be of reinforced concrete
and the roof of aluminum. Equipment will
include a television lounge.
Sikeston Interests Sold
SIKESTON, MO.—O. D. Clayton has sold
his interest in the 450-car drive-in to his
partner Sam Potashnick of
Cape Girardeau.
Clayton ha-s moved to Walnut Ridge. Ark.
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 19.50 71

. .
MILWAUKEE
garl J. Kelley. manager of St. Cloud's Tower
Theatre at 27th and State streets, was
the winner of a $50 U.S. savings bond in
20th-Fox's "Father Was a Fullback" exploitation
contest . . . "Mr. Roberts" played at the
Davidson Tlieatre without any censor trouble.
A deputy from the district attorney's
office and a police sergeant viewed the first
presentation and reported they did not notice
any suggestive lines in the play, and "had the
time of their lives."
"Sands of Iwo Jima," after two weeks at
the Warner, was in a third at Alhambra .
On Pilmrow was Bernard Sherman, who formerly
operated the Douglas Theatre at
Racine. Sherman has just returned from
Texas and is said to be looking for another
theatre to operate in Wisconsin . . . Edward
Weisfeldt was here briefly before taking over
in Detroit February 1 as general manager of
Saul Korman Theatres.
Don Schwarts has secured rights to Movie
Quiz, a theatre giveaway deal, in the Milwaukee
and Minneapolis territories . . . The
Regal building on west Walnut street in the
local Harlem section is reported to be for
sale. The theatre is being operated by Sid
Margoles. The estate of the building's owner
is being liquidated.
The Colos.seum of Motion Picture Salesmen
will join the industry fight to repeal the 20
per cent federal ticket tax, according to David
Beznor, Colosseum general counsel . . . R. C.
iSgg^tia
Cropper, formerly with Pathe in Milwaukee
and Chicago many years ago. died at Boston
from a heart attack. He was branch manager
for RKO in Boston since 1932.
Jack Heywood, operator of the Gem at
New Richmond, Wis., is rushing plans for
the construction of a 850-seat theatre there.
Heywood has operated the Gem 22 years
At the Tower, Oriental and Zenith theatres.
St. Cloud Amusement Co. neighborhood
houses, toy houses are being given away to
kiddies each Saturday. A collection of six
makes a miniature village . . .
"The Fallen
Idol" was in its fifth week at the Fox Downer
on the upper east side.
Weilert Theatre Stymied
By Steel Shipment Delay
ALEXANDRIA, IND. — Theatre construction
on the new theatre in the old Elks building
here is continuing rapidly, while work on
the new Alex Theatre, being built by Mr. and
Mrs. R. S. Weilert, is at a standstill due to a
delay in the shipment of steel beams.
Ike Turner of Decatur, 111., building superintendent
for the Alliance Theatre Corp. who
is in charge of construction, says the roof of
the circuit house has been completed and
cement exit ramps have been poured in the
rear of the auditorium. The new Alliance
house will be known as the Town Theatre.
Cement block sides have been completed
on the Alex, but construction of the brick
front has been halted until steel beams arrive.
The new Alex Theatre is located on
North Harrison street, while the Alliance
house is located on the corner of Harrison
and Church streets.
—
'Outlaw' Again Tops
Loop House Grosses
CHICAGO—The mercury zoomed to 64 degrees
for the warmest January weather in
years and brought thousands to the Loop,
but business at downtown theatres was not
so hot. Two newcomers bowed in above average,
"Ambush" at the United Artists and a
twin bill at the RKO Palace. "South Sea Sinner"
and "The Stagecoach Kid." "The Outlaw"
still was filling seats in a fourth week
at the RKO Grand, the Chicago had an average
second week with "Dancing in the Dark"
plus a stage show headed by Jules Munshin.
the Oriental hit par with a second week of
"Whirlpool" and a stage show headed by
Willie Shore. "The Inspector General"
bowed out of the Woods Theatre with an
average fourth week, while "Mrs. Mike" had
a fair second week at the Roosevelt.
(Average Is 100)
Chicagc Dancing in the Dark (2Cth-Fox), plu
stage sh
..ICO
ck—Tunisian Victory (MGM); Desert Victory
{20th-Fox), reissues 90
Gra-nd—The Outlaw (RKO), 4th wk '.."^''l20
Oriental—Whirlpool
Znd wk
(20th-Fox), plus stage show,
100
Palace South Sea Sinner
_
(U-I); The Stagecoach
Kid (RKO) 100
Roosevelt—Mrs. Mike (UA), 2nd wk.
Selwyn—The Red Shoes (EL), roadshow,
105
58th wk Fair
State-Lake—The Hasty Heart (WB), 2nd wk... 95
Studio Carnegie Hall (U-I). The Great Waltz
(MGM), reissues
go
United Artists—Ambush (MGM) HO
Woods—The Inspector General (WB), 4tli wk. . 100
World Playhouse—Fame Is the Spur (Oxiord);
95
Birth o( a Ballet (Brill). 5th wk. .
"Port' Plus Stage Show Grosses
220 at Indianapolis
INDIANAPOLIS—First run grosses showed
a vast improvement here. The Lyric, with a
stage attraction and "Port of New York,"
led the town at 220 per cent. "The Red
Shoes" at the Circle grossed 140.
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641 North 7th Street,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Complete Theatre Equipment & Supplies
72
Racine, Wis., Main Street
Sold to Ohio Showmen
RACINE, WIS.—The Main Street Theatre
here has been sold by Standard Theatres of
Milwaukee to Joseph J. Lee of Dayton and
Alvin Slutz of Cincinnati, who, it is reported,
expect to make a parttime vaudeville house
of it. The building is not included in the
purchase.
The new owners say they will retain the
name of the theatre, but will change the
policy to make it a family theatre, with films
suitable for the whole family. They will introduce
vaudeville programs twice a month.
The theatre will be redecorated and renovated
and the house made available on short
notice to civic organizations and others for
dramatic or musical entertainment.
Sells Her Second Novel
BLUFFTON, IND.—Peggy Goodin, former
Bluffton writer, has sold her second novel,
"Take Care of My Little Girl," to 20th-
Fox in Hollywood. Her first novel. "Clementine,"
was made into "Mickey." by Eagle Lion,
Miss Goodin now hves in Montreal.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE DIT-MCO DRAG BROOM
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DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO.
729 Baltimore
Kansas City, Mo.
Circle—The Red Shoes (EL)
Indiana—South Sea Sinner (U-I); Hollywood
140
Varieties (LP) 80
Keith s-Sands o( Iwo Jima (Rep), "2nd d. t. wk.''''l30
Loews—Ambush (MGM); Challenge to Lassie
(MGM) 120
Lyric—Port of New York (EL), plus Renfro
Valley Barn Dance on stage 220
Patricia Neal and Randolph Scott were set
for the topline roles in Warners' "Sugarfoot."
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BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 19.50

: February
. . . Opal
. . . Jane
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. . The
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. . Jack
Premiere of Gloves' INDIANAPOLIS
Planned in March
CHICAGO—Carl Krueger. who produced
"The Golden Gloves Story" here, says he's
not discouraged about making more pictures
in Chicago and will make at least one more
film here this year.
"In some cases." he .says, "we paid higher
labor rates in Chicago than if the picture
had been made in Hollywood, but 'Tlie Golden
Gloves Story' turned out so well it's definite
proof motion pictures can be made better at
the actual locale. When you see the world
premiere in March you'll note production on
a scale impossible at any price in Hollywood."
Krueger. now in Hollywood, reports he expects
to give the film a sneak preview there
in a few days. Cutters, editors and music
conductor Emil Newman have done a fine
job on the finished print, he asserts.
Cluster Circuit to Build
Drive-In at Salem, 111.
SALEM, ILL.—The Cluster circuit, which
operates the Globe, Lyric and Salem theatres
here and the Palace in Johnston City. 111.,
will start construction early in the spring of
a 500-car drive-in on Route 37 about a mile
and half south of Salem, says Loren Cluster.
The drive-in will have in-car speakers and
will cost upwards of $100,000.
The Cluster family has been in exhibition
for the last 42 years. The circuit was founded
by the late Robert C. Cluster, father of
Loren who operates the theatres here, and
Stewart Cluster, who is in charge of the house
at Johnston City.
The Cluster circuit has installed new sound
and projection equipment In the Globe Theatre.
A new Snow White RCA screen purchased
from the St. Louis Theatre Supply
Co., St. Louis, Mo., has been provided for the
Lyric in Salem, while the Salem Theatre will
have the first Excello Simplex heads in this
section of Illinois.
Easter Opening Planned
Of Fond du Lac Drive-In
POND DU LAC, WIS.—The Lake Park Outdoor,
Inc., has pushed forward the tentative
opening date for its new drive-in here from
the originally scheduled late April date to a
possible Eastertime opening. President Sam-
bers.
membership drive continues in full force. The
entertainment committee is planning some
big events for the coming months.
Named as Cameraman
Norbert Brodine has been named as cameraman
for Metro's "Right Cross."
Mat Levy, captain of the RKO Ned Depinet
arive. RKO. and Frank Drumm, assistant,
conducted a two-day meeting at the local
branch (19, 20). Morris Lefko. district manager,
al.so was present . Peterson.
National Theatre Supply manager, attended
the branch managers meeting in Los Angeles
Hughes, bookkeeper at National
Screen Service, was in St. Francis hospital
at Beech Grove following an appendectomy
Lyons, typist at RKO, and Durrell
Ferguson, were married.
Pauline Neese succeeded Suzanne Jones as
secretary to Gene Tunick at Eagle Lion. She
formerly was at Dezel Productions on the
booking desk . Warner branch has
been equipped with new booker's de.sk chairs
and other new office equipment . Van
Borssum of the West and Savoy theatres.
Terre Haute, made his annual visit to Filmrow
to buy and book.
Jules Goldman, Warner city salesman, became
father of a baby girl named Lynn Barbara
. Cohen, Film Classics home
office, conferred with local Manager Sam
Abrams . Dreeben has been added
at Film Classics to cover the southern Indiana
and the Kentucky area.
Exhibitors on Filmrow: Harry Van Noy,
Middletown: Walter Weil. Weil. Greenfield;
Silver Raley. Swiss, Tell City, and Nick Paikos,
Diana, Tipton . . . Affiliated Advertising Distributors
has licensed Lucky Name at the
Royal at Danville and the Idaho and Swan at
Terre Haute . . . Installation of several hundred
hundred- more parking meters in the
downtown area here is planned by city officials.
At least three hundred will be placed
in the mile square.
The Variety Club reported nine new mem-
Chief Barker Tom McCleaster said the
Webster Groves Ozark
Is Nearing Completion
WEBSTER GROVES. MO. — Tlie $56,000
renovation of the Ozark Theatre here is well
under way and should be completed next
month, according to J. A. Siepker. president
and managing director of the theatre. The
renovation includes. addition of air condition-
uel Costas said work had progressed more
rapidly than had been anticipated and that
ing,
if the present rate of construction could be
a new parking area, refacing the front of
continued the
the building to
earlier opening would be met.
a modern-colonial design, new
Construction has continued all winter, with
lounges, larger concessions stand and redecoration.
interruptions only during severe cold weather.
The foundation for the screen tower has been The house was air conditioned last summer
laid
at
and the concrete block building which
a cost of $31,000, Siepker said. A. C.
will house the booth and conce.ssions stand
Stauter, architect, is in charge of current
and restrooms is about complete. Tlie tower
improvements.
will measure 60x70 feet and the screen will be The Ozark was built originally in 1921 and
40x50 feet. The drive-in will include a playground
equipped with a $4,000 miniature
during the 29-year period the building has
been improved only on one other occasion,
train, swings, slides and other play apparatus
about 15 years ago. Siepker said.
for children.
An asbestos fence has been built around the
Renovate at Harvard, 111.
site and posts for the 500 in-car speakers
HARVARD, ILL.—The new Harvard Theatre,
formerly the Roxy, has been reopened
have been installed. Costas estimates the
cost of the project at about $150,000.
BOXOFFICE :
after extensive redecoration by Bill Johnson,
owner. New Bodiform seats have been installed
along with a Cycloramic screen. The
house has been air conditioned and has had
a complete interior decoration job.
Theatre Destroyed
In East Grand Forks
EAST GRAND PORKS, MINN.—The State
Theatre and four business buildings and one
apartment house were damaged in a fire
which swept through three-quarters of a
block here recently. The loss was estimated
at more than $100,000. The theatre and ballroom,
one of best known landmarks in thii.
area, went up in flames. There was no hint
at the cause of the fire, according to Ira
Haaven, the theatre owner, who suffered the
only injury, a burned hand. Haven said the
fire did not start in the furnace room.
Object to Oriental Plan
CHICAGO—Attorneys for Edwin Silverman,
president of the Essaness circuit, and
as.sociates now operating the Oriental Theatre
in the Loop, filed 74 pages of objection
to a master in chancery report turning management
of the 4,000-scat house over to the
BB Corp. and James Booth Theatre Management
Co.. subject to Judge Cornelius Harrington's
approval.
Road Case May 1
CHICAGO—The Road Tlieatre's $675,000
antitrust case against leading film companies
in Judge William Campbell's court has been
set for May 1.
GEBi^^BAR
thewEtre equipment
442 NORTH ILLINOIS STREET
INDIANAPOLIS
INDIANA
4, 1950 73

. . The
. . Director
. . . Dick
CHICAGO
The Variety Club of Illinois has vacated
quarters which it has occupied the last
three years in the Sheraton hotel. Jack
Kirsch. chief barker, said a new location in
downtown Chicago would be announced in a
few days ... At Monogram Irving Mandel.
head man, was married to Helen Reifman,
office secretary, and Edna Mae Reilly. Mandel's
secretary, announced her marriage to
James Worsham.
The head of one of the world's largest motion
picture equipment manufacturers and
a vice-president of the Federal Reserve bank
of Chicago shared honors as Chicago's outstanding
young men of the year. They are
Charles H. Percy. 30, president of Bell &
Howell, and John K. Langum, 36, the banker.
They were given the Junior Chamber of
Commerce's top awards at the group's annual
awards banquet at the Sherman hotel . . .
Bernie Howard, who created the Revere Camera
Co. Name the Movie TV show, has been
appointed sales chief for F^mack's TV production
division.
Ashton Stevens, Herald-American columnist,
turned over a check to Jack Kirsch for
Variety Club's heart fund. The check was
given to Stevens by Ernest Byfield, president
of Hotel Sherman, for an introduction that
he wrote and a recording that he made of the
"College Inn Story."
RKO hosted Franchot Tone at a cocktail
party in the Blackstone hotel. Tone was here
for the opening of "The Man on the Eiffel
Tower" at the Palace . . . Bill F>ine told press
$8,427 ERECTS THIS
NEW SCREEN TOWER
A FEW OUTSTANDING FEATURES
coverall size: 50 ft. x 40
-K Screen size: 44 ft. x 33
-^ All 4 sides covered
painted
M 2-Line 24 ft. Wajner
Attraction Board
¥. Band of Lights in
Front of Tower
M Ready for the Picture
Nothing else to buy
—
folk how he and Bill Thomas, also a Paramount
producer, looked over a moppet
brought to their office by agent Lou Irwin.
Both Bills agreed "the kid didn't have it"
and declined her for a role in their picture.
Her name? Margaret O'Brien. Pine is offering
a role in his "Tripoli" to the girl who will
be selected as Miss Photoflash of 1950 at the
press photographers annual dinner at the
Morrison hotel February 18.
Film Renters combination of "Tunisan
Victory" and "Desert Victory" has been
booked by Albert Dezel in the Garrick Theatre
in the Loop, with other B&K houses to
follow . . . SRO's "The Third Man" will open
on February 9 at the Selwyn Theatre following
"The Red Shoes." which has had a run
of 59 weeks. A reserved seat premiere will be
held for the Nathan Goldblatt memorial
cancer fund February 8 with subsequent
showing to be on a continuous basis at a
straight 98-cent admission.
Bill Hollander, B&K ad chief, and Norman
Kassel, Essaness publicity director, attended
the 20th-Fox showmanship meeting in New
York . Rialto embarked on its new
policy of glorified burlesque with "Barbary
F*irate" as the accompanying film attraction.
The show drew capacity crowds over the
weekend with four stage shows presented
daily from 10 a.m. to midnight daily. Every
week there will be an entirely new musical
stage production with stars and a chorus of
24 girls.
The "First Opera Film Festival," combining
four streamlined operas in film form is being
shown at the Essex Theatre: "William Tell,"
"Marriage of Figaro," "Don Pasquale" and
Leonard Utecht, manager of
"Carmen" . . .
the Lake Theatre in Oak Park, worked out
an agreement with the sponsors of his kiddy
shows, Robert Jacobs of Jacobs & Benson and
Harry Bronfield of Lyttons & Co., as a result
of which they buy tickets for all kiddies at
the local Hephzibah Children's Home in Oak
Park. The story was so good the Sunday
Tribune carried a picture showing Mrs. Binks,
public relations chairman for the home, accepting
the tickets from the two men as Len
looked on.
Herman Marks, Monogram country salesman,
was at Lutheran Deaconess hospital for
surgery . Mervyn LeRoy passed
through town en route to England to direct
MGM's long-delayed "Quo Vadis.", After a
few weeks of preliminary work in London,
LeRoy will return to Hollywood, then take
off for a seven-month stay in Rome, where
most of the picture will be filmed.
Emil Stern, one of the most beloved figures
in the theatrical world, has retired from
the Essaness circuit which he helped found
in 1929 with Edwin Silverman and the late
Sid Spiegel. Silverman became sole boss of
the chain in 1945, but Stern remained active
in the operation untU mid-January. He has
been in the show business since 1917 and
served as head of various circuits . . "The
.
Third Man," the second film on which Director
Carol Reed and writer Graham Greene
have collaborated (the first was "The Fallen
Idol"! will open at the Selwyn Theatre February
9 following a 60-week run of "The Red
Shoes."
"Samson and Delilah" was heralded with
an unusual and interesting display for exhibitors
and the press at the Blackstone Hotel
Condon and heads of Paramount
exchange held open house from 1 to 7 p. m.
. . . Pete Panagos, Alliance circuit promotion
manager, went to Arizona on business.
Precedent has been set by the stage and
screen bookers of the Chicago Theatre, which
is now booked 12 weeks in advance for the
first time in history: February 3-10, Janis
Paige in person with "Montana,"; 17-24, June
Havoc in person with "Chain Lightning";
March 3-10, Billy DeWolfe in person with "The
Heiress": then the Ink Spots, followed by
Carmen Miranda in her own stage revue for
Easter week; then a personal appearance of
Frankie Laine, opening April 14.
The Rialto Theatre is going back ^a
burlesque after three years of grind motion
pictures. Jack Hunt, manager, plans "something
new" in stage productions with an extra
midnight stage festival on Saturdays . . .
B&K's Ed Seguin shined up his golf clubs
and hopped the night plane to Miami Friday
(3) for his annual holiday. No matter what
golf scores he reports. Jack Garber says he
won't believe them.
Three films were available to WGN-TV
viewers last Sunday. "Son of Oklahoma," a
western film with Bob Steele, and "The Wife
of General Ling" were shown at 1 p. m. and
"When Thief Meets Thief" at 9:30 . . . Harry
Goldman, EL manager, reports numerous letters
are pouring in daily at the exchange
here requesting an early showing of "Guilty
of Treason." The letters are coming from
individuals rather than from church groups,
Goldman says, adding that the film based
on Cardinal Mindszenty trial has received
little publicity in local newspapers.
Eddie Solomon, 20th-Fox exploiteer, attended
home office meeting . . . Samuel
a
Goldwyn came in from Hollywood over the
weekend for a parley and to plan the open-
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74 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

ing of his "My Foolish Heart" , , . Comdr.
Irving Johnson previewed his latest film.
"Yankee Wander World." the chronicle of
one of his around-the-world cruises on his
sailing ship Yankee, January 31 at North
Park college . . . "Bicycle Thief." the Italian
film that has received a half dozen honors
as the best foreign picture of the year, will
open February 18 at the World Playhouse.
Abe Teitel says "Devil in the Flesh" also has
been booked for an early showing at the
theatre.
Three Paramount Pictures
To B&K Loop Theatres
CHICAGO — Paramount rejected all bids
made by Loop theatres for its first films offered
under its new bidding-zoning plan, but
sold "The Heiress." "Tlielma Jordon" and
"Captain China" to the Balaban & Katz Corp.
for its Loop theatres under negotiated terms.
"The Heiress" will open here March 3 with
a stage show headed by Billy DeWolfe.
"Thelma Jordon" will go into the Roosevelt
February 25, to be followed by "Captain
China," both for two-week runs.
Paramount, which was separated from
Balaban & Katz January 1 under the consent
decree ruling, is understood to have received
bids on the three films from BKO Theatres
and the Essaness circuit as well as Balaban
& Katz, but in each instance the bids have
been insufficient. On the other hand, bidding
for "The Great Lover." which initiated the
company's plan for outlying theatres, met
with considerable success with 13 situations
having won bookings.
Sparta, 111., Grand Opens
After Blue Law Banned
SPARTA. ILL.—The Grand Theatre, owned
by Sparta Theatre, Inc., C. H. Wells, manager,
opened Sunday (29) ending the 122-year ban
against commercial Sunday entertainment.
In a recent election residents of Sparta voted
overwhelmingly against the ancient blue law.
The repeal of the local ordinance left the
nearby town of Marisa as the only one in
southern Illinois still enforcing an ordinance
against Sunday motion picture shows.
The blue law was established by the Scotch
Presbyterians who founded the town, which
now has a population of 4,000. The first reaction
to the Sunday vote was an announcement
of the manager, C. H. Wells of the
420-seat Grand Theatre, that a new and
larger theatre soon will be built here. The
Grand is owned by Sparta Theatres, Inc.,
and books thi-ough the Turner-Farrar circuit
of Harrisburg.
Robber of Ken Theatre
Is Sought in St. Louis
NAMEOKI. ILL.—Madison county autliorities
have not yet apprehended the burglar
who stole the safe from the Ken Theatre,
owned by Sam Nieberg, The safe contained
about $200.
Motion Pictures' Best Age
Farley Granger, young discovery of Samuel
Goldwyn. thinks that this is the best age for
motion pictures because they are no longer
a novelty.
August Berkholtz of West Bend, Wis.,
Boasts Experience in Many Fields
WEST BEND, WIS.— August C. Berkholtz,
owner of two theatres in this city of 6,000
about 35 miles northwest of Milwaukee and
one in Two Rivers, boasts experiences in
many fields of employment.
Berkholtz. now 65, has been in the motion
picture business 38 years, but before that his
activities ranged from that of cook in a Wisconsin
lumber camp, a concrete contractor
to railroad brakemen, to mention a few.
Back in 1912 he tried his luck in the show
business by purchasing 112 camp chairs, a
projection machine and a player piano and
set them up in the post office building at Rio
in northern Wisconsin. About the same time
he married and his wife helped out at the
theatre as cashier. During the daytime, Berkholtz
worked in stores as a clerk to supplement
his income, since the profits from his
film house were insufficient.
Later he purchased the Opera House In Red
Granite, and operated a motion picture show,
roller skating rink and dance hall in the
same building, and in addition ran a drayage
line,
truck.
delivering freight first by horse then by
After decade or so of this quadruple-threat
business, Berkholtz bought the Mermac Theatre
in West Bend, which he still owns. In
1931 he took over operation of the West Bend
Theatre, and some time later the Rivoli in
Two Rivers. But he is not content with the
one line of business. He also owns and operates
at present the Mermac hotel in the former
Catholic school building.
Berkholtz relates he started making his own
living at the age of 11 because of the financial
necessity at home. After a lot of odd jobs he
handled as a youngster in his home town, he
left for the lumber camps and soon was a
cook at Catawba. By the time he was 15 he
was cooking and baking to the .satisfaction of
145 lumberjacks. Later years saw him trying
out employment in sawmills, veneer factories
and stave and planing mills.
Tiring of the lumber business, Berkholtz
switched to farming around Columbus, Wis.
Later he became a concrete contractor, laying
sidewalks, then tried out the tobacco
fields around Portage. This was too confining,
so he got a job as a brakeman on the
Milwaukee raili-oad. Railroading could not
hold him either, for soon he was working in
the peas and sugar beet factories in sea.son.
Still another change gave him experience as
a clerk in a general store operated by his
uncle. There he helped build up a creamery
business.
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August Berkholtz seen standing at the
desk of the Mermac hotel which he operates
along with three theatres.
Hi3 experiment with motion pictures in
1912 has proved permanent. He concludes he
will remain a theatreman, at least until he
turns his show houses over to his son Harold,
who was graduated from the University of
Wisconsin recently and now is helping operate
the three houses.
Berkholtz's hobby is fishing. He participates
in numerous civic activities and likes
to help the young folk.
John Sturm Is Speaker
At Effingham, 111., Club
EJFFINGHAM. ILL.—John Sturm, manager
of the Heart and Effingham theatres for the
FYisina circuit, .spoke recently at a luncheon
meeting of the Effingham Expander club on
the operations of the Frisina Amusement Co.,
which now owns or manages .some 65 motion
picture theatres. This circuit w'as started
back in 1910 by Dominic Frisina. Sturm also
touched on the circuit's plans for construction
of a 750-car drive-in in the Effingham
area. It will cost upwards of $100,000.
Doesn't See Herself in Pictures
Asked what she thought of herself in pictures
Margaret SuUavan answered that she
had not seen her.self in a film since her third
year.
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BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 75

Theatre Firebug Tells How He Did It Theatre at Baraboo
BEAVER DAM. WIS.—A 12-year-old boy
confessed to local police that he had started
about a dozen incendiary fires in this city,
including three at the Odeon Theatre. Here
is that part of the youngster's signed confession
which pertains to the fii'es started in the
theatre:
"On a Sunday afternoon I picked up some
papers on the lawn at the rear of St. Patrick's
cliurch, I went and took them by the exit
(of the theatre). This exit is in the back. I
went through like a little alley to get to this
door. I put these papers by the door on the
outside. Then I lit the papers with a wooden
match I got from home. After the papers
started to burn I walked out of this alley, went
down Center street, and then turned off left
on Front street. I then bought a ticket at
the boxoffice and I then went to the show
and sat down. I sat way down in front.
After I sat down I was waiting for them to
holler 'fire.' I stayed in my seat until intermission
time. I then went down to the restroom.
I stayed there until all the men went.
I then lit a wastepaper basket which was right
by the sink. There were a lot of paper towels
in the basket. I again used a wooden match
which I got from home. This was the second
one I had taken from home that Sunday.
After starting these papers on fire I went upstairs.
I then went and sat down where I was
sitting before. I then watched the show. I
did not tell anyone about setting these fires.
"On a weekday in the afternoon when
there were 25 cartoons showing I again went
down to the boiler room of the Odeon Theatre.
I went down there about the middle of
the show. I don't remember what day it was.
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This boiler fire was the first fire I set at the
Odeon. I went down in the basement and
there were some matches lying in the bathroom.
These matches were in a red book. I
picked up the matches and went to the boiler
room. I took the broom and put it by the furnace.
I put a rag by the broom and lit the
rag. The broom was up against the wall. I used
only one match. I saw that the rag was
burning, closed the door, and went upstairs
and sat down where I had been before. I
did not tell anyone about this fire."
The fire in the boiler room caused some
damage to boiler equipment, but the other two
blazes were extinguished without harm to
the theatre. Patrons were not aware of the
fires at the time they were set.
Two States Rule on Pay
For Striking Workers
ST. LOUIS—Organized labor has been hard
hit during the last several days by two decisions,
one in Illinois and the other in Missouri,
affecting picket lines in time of labor
disputes.
At Springfield, 111., the state supreme court
held that union members who were idle because
they refused to cross a picket line were
not entitled to unemployment compensation
benefits. Affected by that ruling were members
of the APL union employed by the
American Brake Shoe Co., Chicago. The AFL
members refused to go through a picket line
set up by a CIO organization In connection
with a jurisdictional fight in other plants of
the company. The high court held that AFL
members had no interest in the labor dispute
and no reason to fear violence if they crossed
the picket line.
In Jefferson City, unemployment compensation
was denied to striking employes of the
Producers Creamery Co. of Springfield, Mo.,
who had accepted pay from their union for
serving in the picket line. The Missouri division
of employment security ruled that the
paid pickets were economically able to engage
in picketing as their chief activity and
therefore were not unemployed. Twenty of
the 56 strikers were affected by the ruling,
which probably will be appealed to the circuit
court.
Deeds Three Theatres
To County to Pay Debt
EMINENCE, MO. — 'Wright S. Brawley,
owner of the 200-seat Pap's Theatre in Eminence,
Pap's in Birch Tree and Pap's in
Winona, has deeded the three theatres and
other property, including his home here, four
rental houses and two business buildings in
Eminence to Shannon county in settlement
of a civil suit brought some time ago by the
county to recover an alleged shortage of
$48,000 in his accounts as county treasurer.
Tlie civil suit against Brawley was dismissed
following his agreement to turn over
the theatres, his home and the other property.
County officials expressed the belief that the
properties would net enough to cover the
amount due the county.
Believes in Her Business
Jane Russell who has a strong faith in
Christianity believes that the business which
she is in is the one in which she can give the
most service.
In Ringling Lawsuit
BARABOO, WIS.—Henry Ringling of the
family of circus fame has started court action
against the Rockland Oil Co. for partition of
interests in the Al Ringling Theatre here,
including the equipment, furnishings and
otlier assets. A store building adjoining the
theatre also is specified in the action, as
well as a warehouse here and a quarter interest
in the Julair Theatre. Ringling now owns
three-fourths of the Al Ringling Theatre,
one-fourth of which he is said to have
acquired from Mrs. Charles Ringling and
another fourth from Mrs. Richard Ringling
some time ago.
The estate of John Ringling is being
liquidated in Florida, and recently one-foiirth
of the interest in the Al Ringling Theatre
here is said to have been transferred to
Ringling Enterprises, Inc., which later transferred
it to the Rockland Oil Co. The suit is
to come up in the Sauk county court.
The Ringling Bros. Circus was started in
Baraboo many years ago.
George Wittich to Build
St. Louis Airport Ozoner
ST. LOUIS—A drive-in to accommodate
500 or more automobiles will be built on the
south side of Natural Bridge road across from
Lambert-St. Louis municipal airport. The
permit was issued by county authorities to
George H. Wittich, who gave his address as
the law firm of Flynn & Parker, 317 North
11th street.
The county authorities laid down rules that
speakers must be of the in-car type, a plan
must be submitted to the county zoning enforcement
officer for handling traffic and a
strip of land must be used for the right-ofway
to Ashby road to relieve congestion on
Natural Bridge road. This strip must be 50
feet wide for 1,500 feet and 60 feet wide for
an additional 1.300 feet. The theatre operator
must also provide for the surfacing of parking
areas to elimiiiate dust.
The civil aeronautical authority advised
the county that the CAA had no objection to
erection of a 60-foot screen tower for the
drive-in. The CAA letter suggested, however,
that in the interest of aeronautical safety
the top of the screen be provided with obstruction
lights, which should be operated
during all periods of limited visibility and
diu^ing periods of darkness when pictures are
not being shown.
The theatre will be of single-package type
with an Abilene. Tex., contractor handling
erection.
A St. Louis building permit has been issued
to George Graff to reconvert his building
at 3627 Grandel Square into a theatre.
Plans call for new concrete floors, theatre
seating, air conditioning and lighting and
the estimated cost is $20,000. This building
is occupied by the Four Hundred club, a
night club.
Another building permit has been issued
to the Arnold Amusement Co. for remodeling
of the Carver, which caters to the Negro
trade. The contract has been awarded to
John Kalicak Building Construction Co. here.
Plans were prepared by Jack H. Shawcross,
architect. Remodeling of the theatre will
include installation of a modern front, new
doors and windows and a new canopy. The
permit estimated the cost at $8,000.
76 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

. . Gordon
. . Plans
. . Raising
ST. LOUIS
puis Shafton, former MGM salesman here
and later operator of the Lexington and
Palm theatres, plans to open a string of
drive-in theatres in South Africa. From
Johannesburg he wrote Morty Gottlieb, head
of the St. Louis branch of Joe Hornstein,
Inc.. for drive-in plans. Shafton said he was
on vacation, combining business and pleasure.
He added that he might decide to open a
drive-in or several drive-ins.
The Wehrenberg circuit has purchased new
Alexander Smith rugs for its Michigan and
Studio theatres from National Theatre Supply.
It also has bought the latest type of
Manley popcorn machine for the Michigan
from Pi-ank Morris, St. Louis representative
for Manley.
Clarence Turley. manager of the Ambassador
and Missouri buildings and interested
in the Uptown Theatre, will participate in
a two-day seminar on real estate at Dallas
February 24, 25 .
Halloran. 20th-
Fox manager, says his branch hopes to book
250 to 300 dates for "Mother Didn't Tell Me"
in the two-week period beginning March 3.
Halloran and his wife gave a cocktail party
at their home for 17 U-I salesmen from
Omaha, Des Moines and Minneapolis, Kenny
Adams, who works for U-I in the Dakotas,
came from a 44-degree below zero temperature
with a heavy overcoat and overshoes only
to find the temperature here a balmy 62
above.
A number of theatremen from southern
Illinois plan to attend the convention of the
INTERNATIONAL
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but
LOCAL in SERVICE
See
FRANK MORRIS
lor
MANLEY MACHINES
and
SUPPLIES
3138 Olive Street
United Theatre Owners of Illinois at the
Abraham Lincoln hotel in Springfield February
9, 10.
Eddie Cantor sent a $25 gift certificate from
the Famous-Barr department store to Arthur
B Baer. president of the competmg Stix.
Baer and Fuller Co. . . There is a double
.
note of finality in a .sign in front of the old
New Grand Central Theatre, first local de
luxe theati-e. A sign above the marquee
names the wreckers of the building and jusc
below another sign says; "last performance."
R. Forder Bucldey, president of the local
bar association, has been named chairman
for the program committee for the 47th annual
observance here of Brotherhood week
Wendell Corey, star of
February 19-26 . . .
"Thelma Jordon," met exhibitors at a cocktail
party in the Hotel Chase.
Exhibitors in town included Tom Edwards
and Frank Plumlee of Farmington: Mr. and
Mrs. Harry Miller, Festus; Keith Coleman,
Mount Carmel, 111.; H. O. Bates, Cape Drivein,
lUmo; Tommy Tobin, East St. Louis, and
Izzy Weinsheink, district manager, Publix
Great States, Alton.
. . . Joe Small, Warner Bros,
.
.
Reports from Blue Mounds. 111., are that
the deal for the Fix Theatre has been consummated
and the new owners will take
over at once
auditor, having completed his work here
went to Cincinnati for remodeling
the headquarters of the Wehrenberg
circuit in the Cinderella Theatre building
are under consideration of the
American flag on Iwo Jima was re-enacted
on the stage of the Fox Theatre by marines
from the St. Louis area in connection
w-th the showing of "Sands of Iwo
Jima."
Drive-In at Clinton, 111.,
Will Be Started April 1
CLINTON, ILL. — Frank Stewart of the
Family Amusement Co. in Danville reports
construction will be started on a drive-in here
alxiut April 1. The 450-car theatre will be
erected on one of two sites on which the
company holds options, one east and the
other south of the city. Tom Griffing of Dallas
has been chosen general contractor.
C. H. Weeks Plans Drive-In
DEXTER. MO.— Charles H. Weeks jr., who
operates the Gem and Weeks theatres here,
contemplates construction of a drive-in on
Highway 25 about one mile .south of Dexter.
fc^^^
cosrs uss
Uiie

Producers Arm to Fight
Antisweets Campaign
From Western Edition
HOLLYWOOD — Exhibitors, as well as
candy, soft drink and confectionery interests,
may well become somewhat unhappy if the
campaign is successful. Therefore the studio
publicity directors' committee of the Ass'n of
Motion Picture Producers has apprised studio
drumbeaters of the tactics being employed
by southland dentists participating in an
American Dental Ass'n drive to "educate"
children against consuming candy and pop
on the grounds they are injurious to the
teeth.
Arch Reeve, who heads the AMPP's publicity
directors' committee, disclosed that
dentists in this area have approached their
film star clients with requests to make recordings
and to participate in a west coast
broadcast, slated for early in February, to
urge children to pass up candy.
Accordingly, film publicists have been
alerted and advised to take whatever action,
if any, they deem necessary if the ADA campaign
is to be combated. An AMPP memo
to studio publicity directors cautions that
filmdom "should avoid putting itself in the
position of undermining other great industries,"
cautioning that theatre profits from
the sale of such confections are high, and
warning that "there may be repercussions
from theatres on stars participating."
Jeff Corey Joins Cast
Jeff Corey has joined the cast of "Rawhide,"
the Tyrone Power western to be released
to 20th-Fox.
Unidentified Man Pays
Admission for 30 Kids
From Western Edition
BXJTTE, MONT. — The well-dressed
man who walked along Park street and
paused before the American Theatre here
recently didn't look like Santa Claus, but
to a swarm of 30 youngsters waiting for
the boxoffice to open he soon became a
glorified Kris Kringle.
The man started counting noses, but the
boys and girls paid no attention. Cashier
Margaret Bennett entered the booth and
began setting up her change and tickets.
The stranger edged through the kids,
dumped a quantity of change on the glass
top and said: "Thirty children's please."
Miss Bennett admitted the 30 as the man
walked off.
Majestic at Columbus
Being Razed for Store
From Mideast Edition
COLUMBUS—Once the only de luxe house
in Columbus, the Majestic closed its doors
December 31. The building will be torn down
to make way for a new store to be built by
the H. L. Green Co. In recent years the
High street house, which would have observed
its 36th anniversary January 12, has
been operated by the Libson-White interests
of Cincinnati. C. O. Littler has been manager
for the last several months.
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: February
Showmanship Beats
Zero in Minnesota
MINNEAPOLIS— In the face of the coldest
weather of the winter, theatre business is
holding up well in this territory, with showmanship
and quality of product credited for
keeping business from going to the dogs. In
some parts of the territory, the temperature
dropped as low as 50 below zero, and there
Services for H. B. Johnson
Held at Rush City, Minn.
OMAHA — Funeral services were held in
Rush City, Minn., for H. B. Johnson, 57, U-I
manager here, who died recently of a heart
attack in a local hospital.
Johnson had been manager here eight years
and prior to that was in the film business
in the Minneapolis area for many years. He
was well-known as a public speaker and was
extremely active in sports in his younger
years.
Survivors include his wife Kata and a son
H. B. jr., of Minneapolis.
KMTA Drive-In Meeting
Is Slated for Feb. 22
KANSAS CITY—Operators of open air
theatres in all parts of the Kansas City exchange
area are being invited to attend a special
drive-in meeting which the Kansas-Mis-
have been near-blizzards, heavy snowfalls
and ley streets, pavements and roads. Nevertheless,
souri Tlieatre Ass'n will sponsor February 22
grosses in most spots have been com-
at the Philhps hotel here. The session will
paring favorably with those for the same period
convene at 10 a.m.
a year ago when weather conditions were An invitation to attend the meeting has
much more favorable.
been sent to Gael Sullivan, TOA executive
"It all goes to prove what showmanship director. Leading drive-in operators in Kansas,
can accomplish," pointed out Harry B. French.
Missouri and Arkansas will be present,
Minnesota Amusement Co. president. "It also and many of them are expected to talk on
demonstrates that good product, capably sold, their experiences in building and operating
apparently can overcome the worst handicaps.ielson,
Russell, Kas., KMTA president.
open ail- situations, according to Dale Dan-
French announced at the year's start that Among the drive-in operators who have
all his house managers would be called upon been invited to .speak, and their subjects:
to exert every ounce of showmanship to keep Glen Cooper, Dodge City and Garden City,
things in high gear. Advertising appropriations
Kas., "What We Do to Preserve Surfacing."
have been upped and all managerial William Flynn, Great Bend and Emporia,
ingenuity as regards to tieups, stunts and Kas., "Lighting Problems I Have Experienced
publicity and exploitation is being tapped in Drive-In Operation."
throughout the circuit, with the result that Sol Frank, Pratt, Kas., "Program Planning,
the bad weather is being licked. In Minneapolis,
Changes and General Film Policies."
for example, there were two successive Jay Wooten, Hutchinson and Liberal, Kas.,
days of 23 below zero temperatures and this
week the temperature was down to 15 below.
Substantial grosses, however, are being
chalked up by such attractions as "Battleground,"
"All the King's Men" and "The
Heiress."
"Indoor Theatre Advertising Stunts I Can
Use Outdoors."
Beverly Miller, Leavenworth, and Jefferson
City, Mo., "Concession Tips and Management."
Claude Parrish, Topeka, Kas., "Traffic Control
Hints."
Pinton Jones. Kansas City. "Insurance
Nece.s.sary for Drive-Ins and Means of Obtaining
Lower Rates."
Jack Braunagel, Kansas City. "Drive-In
Staff Organization and Operating Problems."
Carl Burton, Port Smith. Ark., "Winter
Drive-In Operation."
A representative of the Socony-Vacuum Oil
Co., Kansas City, "Dust Control and Rockless
Surfacing."
An attendance of from 60 to 75 theatremen
from the various parts of the Kansas City
exchange area is expected at the meeting,
The KMTA drive-in
according to Danielson.
committee includes C. E. Cook, Maryville, Mo.,
chairman; Elmer Bills, Sali-sbury. Mo.; Frank
G. Weary. Richmond. Mo.; Homer P. Strowig.
Abilene, Kas., and Don Burnett, Larned, Kas.
Kansas-Missouri Allied
Board to Meet Feb. 14
KANSAS CITY—Directors of the Kansas-
Missouri Allied unit will meet February 14 at
offices of the two-state organization here.
Among subjects to be discus.sed during the
session will be plans for an annual spring
convention to be held here May 9, 10, and for
a meeting of drive-in owners and operators
here not later than March 1. O. P. Sullivan,
Wichita, unit president, will attend the national
Allied board meeting February 9, 10
at Washington, and he will make a report of
proceedings there at the session February 14.
I. M. Weiner Promoted
NEW YORK—Isadore M. Weiner, salesman
for Universal in Omaha for the last !1
years, has been promoted to manager there
by W. A. Scully, vice-president and general
sales manager. Weiner succeeds the late H.
B. Johnson, who died January 19.
LUNCHEON GUESTS IN KANSAS CITY—Exhibitors in the Kansas City area
were guests of Paramount at a luncheon recently at the Muehlebach hotel when
Wendell Corey, star in "Thelma Jordon." was a visitor. Harry R. Hamburg, branch
manager, was host. Shown left to right in the upper photograph are Jack Braunagel.
Commonwealth Theatres; Stan Durwood (standing), Durwood Theatres; Corey; Elmer
C. Rhoden jr.. Commonwealth Theatres, and Ralph .-Vdams. Fox Midwest Theatres.
Lower picture: C. M. Parkhurst, Kansas-Missouri Allied; Fred Meyn. Park, Kansas
City, Kas.; George Baker (standing), A. F. Baker Enterprises; Corey, and Jay Means,
Oak Park, Kansas City, Mo.
BOXOFFICE :
4, 1950 MW 79

. . Prank
KANSAS CITY
LJarold Lloyd, film comedian who recently
was elevated to imperial potentate of the
Shrine, was here to visit Araret temple of
the organization . . . Elmer C. Rhoden, Fox
Midwest Theatres head, was preparing to
leave for the west coast to attend a National
Theatres Corp. meeting. Various other circuit
officials were to leave later to be present
at the four-day parley . L.
Bowen. United Film Service, Inc., was seriously
ill at the Ambassador hotel following
a recent operation at St. Luke's hospital.
Arthur DeStefano, National Theatre Supply
branch manager, returned from a company
sales meeting in Los Angeles . . . Eddie
HYBRID

—
'Battleground' at 200
Leads Kansas City
KANSAS CITY—Trade at first run houses
here in general continued at a brisk pace despite
near-zero temperatures. "Battleground"
at the Midland registered 200 per cent to give
the house its best gross in recent weeks and
set the pace for newcomers. A stage bill featuring
Dick Contino at the RKO Missouri,
with "The Traveling Saleswoman" on the
screen, chalked up 195 per cent. "The Fallen
Idol" rounded out a five-week run at the
midtown Kimo.
(Average Is 100)
Esquire, Apollo— Christopher Columbus (U-I) 95
Kimo—The Fallen Idol (SRO), 5th wk 115
Midland—Baltleground (MGM)
2C0
Paramounl—Thelma Jordon (Para) 95
RKO Missouri—The Traveling Saleswoman (Col),
plus stage show 195
Roxy—Ambush (MGM); HoUday Aiioir (RKO), 2nd
95
To Uptown, Fairway—South Sea Sinner (U-I);
Joe Palooka in the Counterpunch (Mono) (Tower
only) 85
'General' Collects 135 Despite
Cold at Minneapolis
MINNEAPOLIS—Extreme cold again was a
bad boxoffice influence the past week, but
"The Inspector General." among the newcomers,
came through nicely. Holdovers predominated.
It was the fourth week downtown
for "Prince of Foxes," the third for
"The Heiress" and the second for "Samson
and Delilah," "All the King's Men" and "Battleground,"
all of them winners.
Aster-Red Desert (LP); Arctic Fury (RKO) SO
Century—Samson and Delilah (Para), 2nd wk 140
Gopher—The Golden StalUon (Rep); Block
Busters (Mono), reissue 90
Lyceum— Passpoil to Pimlico (EL), 2nd wk 85
Lyric—The Heiress (Para), 3rd d. t. wk 90
Pl-c- Prince ol Foxes (20th-rox), 4lh d. wk 90
I
Radio City—Battleground (MGM), 2nd wk 120
RKO Orpheum—The Inspector General (WB) 135
RKO Pan—All the Kings Men (Col), 2nd d. t. wk. 100
Stale—The Big Wheel (UA) 95
World—Imitation of Ufe (SR), reissue 95
Warms Omaha
'Battleground'
In 16 Below Zero Weather
OMAHA—Temperatures that dropped to 16
degrees below zero cooled the warm run of
1950 pictures here. Business was pretty good
in several spots, however, particularly at the
State where "Battleground" grossed 150 per
cent.
Omaha—Sands oi Iwo Jima (Rep), 2nd d. t. wk;
The Streets of Son Francisco (Rep)
Orpheum—The Inspector General (WB); One
100
Last Fling (WB) 125
Paramount—That Forsyte Woman (MGM) 110
RKO Brandeis—The Story of Seabiscuit (V/B);
Mary Ryan, Detective (Col) _ 100
Stale—Battleground (MGM) 150
lown Leave It to Henry (Mono); Aima Lucasta
(Col), 2nd runs; Twilight on the Rio Grande
(Col), spill with Mars Fighting the World
(U-I); The Denver Kid (Rep) lUO
United in Kansas City
Slates Playdate Drive
KANSAS CITY—A three-month playdate
drive will be launched March 1 by the United
Film Exchange here, owned and operated by
Walt Lambader. who recently returned from
New York after a series of conferences on
new product to be handled by him in the
Kansas City territory. One of the new productions
being distributed by United here is
"Stallion Canyon," an Astor picture in Trucolor
and starring Ken Curtis.
"The Desert Hawk." an adventure tale by
Aubrey Wisberg and Jack Pollexfen, has been
purchased for Universal release.
Adding of 7 Drive-Ins This Year
To Make Commonwealth Total 14
Farris at Richmond, Mo„
Remodeled, Reopened
RICHMOND, MO.—The Farris Theatre has
been reopened here after six months of renovation
and remodeling. Architects for the
renovation were Boiler & Lusk of Kansas City.
Among improvements at the house were a
new buff and green marquee with a red neon
sign and a new concession stand of buff tile
to match the leatherette on the walls.
The floor covering on the lobby is a mingled
red linoleum. The ticket box has a gold
velvet cm'tain while the foyer sports new
deep wine velvet drapes to separate it from
the auditorium. The ladies lounge has been
repainted buff and blue. The theatre has
been rewired and new Incandescent light fixtures
installed in the ceiling. The heating
system has been revamped. The theatre is
owned by Frank G. Weary.
Robert L. Lippert to Visit
Kansas City February 10
KANSAS CITY—Robert L. Lippert. head
of Lippert Productions. San Fi-ancisco, will
visit here next Fi-iday (10). He will be accompanied
by Arthur Greenblatt. Lippert general
sales manager. In connection with his visit,
exhibitors in the Kansas City area will be
guests at a luncheon at the Muehlebach hotel.
"Baron of Arizona." new Lippert production,
will be shown at 2:30 p.m. at the Paramount
screening room. Harry Gaffney is manager
of the Lippert branch here.
Redecorate at Moberly
MOBERLY, MO.—The State Theatre,
formerly
the Sosna, has been reopened here after
a brief closing for installation of new equipment
and redecoration. Western Electric
Voice of the Theatre sound was installed,
projection equipment was overhauled, the
theatre was cleaned and painted and other
major repairs were made. Kensil Elkins is
manager for Dubinsky Brothers.
Award to W. C. Silver
CAMERON, MO.—W. C. Silver, operator
of the Silver Theatre here, received notice
this week that he had been chosen by 20th-
Fox as the winner of a $25 bond for the exploitation
campaign he devi.sed for "Father
Was a Fullback" when he ran the film last
fall.
Robert Brown to Wed
WICHITA, KAS.—The engagement of Jo
Marie Grob to Robert Brown, assistant manager
of the Orpheum Theatre here, was
among those disclosed by the society pages
of local newspapers. The wedding will be in
the summer.
Dexter, Mo., Drive-In Plaimed
DEXTER, MO.—A new drive-in is to be
built on Highway 25 one mile south of Dexter.
The ozoner will be named Weeks' Modern
Drive-In.
KANSAS CITY—With the seven drive-ins
constructed during the last two years in Kansas,
Missouri and Arkansas ready for a spring
reopening, and .seven more being built. Commonwealth
Theatres will round out an expansion
program which will double its open air
facilities in 1950. according to Robert Shelton.
vice-president and general manager.
The initial drive-in to be operated by the
Commonwealth circuit was opened in April
1948 near Joplin. Mo. The next open air theatres
opened by the circuit were the Crest
and the Riverside in suburban Kansas City
Others were added later at Lawrence, Kas.;
Columbia and Sedalia. Mo., and Fayetteville.
Ark. All Commonwealth drive-ins are now
operated under the supervision of Jack
Braunagel.
A 250-car drive-in being built by Nichols &
Hinze near Harri.son, Ark., has been purchased
by Commonwealth. Erection of the
open air theatre is expected to be completed
in April.
Construction of additional drive-ins near
Goodland. Kas.; Clinton. Fulton and Joplin.
Mo.; Batesville and Searcy, Ark., and Creston,
Iowa, is in progress. The project at Goodland
is expected to be ready for opening early
in April. All others are expected to be ready
by July 15.
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OMAHA
J^ale Goldie, owner of the American at
Cherokee. Iowa, is putting a lot of energy
into a school bond campaign. He is a member
of the city council . . . Dick Kehrberg,
Sheldon, Iowa, exhibitor, is equally busy attending
meetings of the board, which will
direct the new hospital there.
Iz Weiner, U-I manager, spent four days
in St. Louis at a district meeting. Omaha
now is in the Chicago district with Manny
Gottheb in charge. Foster Blake moves up
from district to western sales manager .
The Omaha Colosseum was to meet at noon
Saturday . Club is readying a
new activities program to include children's
I
I
Memo TO:
Smart Buyers
THE PRICELESS
INGREDIENT
In the city of Bagdad lived Hakeem
the wise one, and many people went to
him for counsel, which he gave freely
to all asking nothing in return.
There came to him a young man who
had spent much but got little and said:
"Tell me. Wise One, what shall I do
"But what is the Priceless Ingredient?"
asked the young man.
Spoke then the Wise One: "My Son,
the Priceless Ingredient of every product
in the market place is the Honor and
Integrity of him who makes it. Consider
his name before you buy."
Those "In The Know"
Buy EMBRO
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matinees as one way of raising money .
Leon Mendelson, Warner Bros, salesman, had
to leave his car in northern Iowa, due to
ice, and take the train home.
Jack Devaney, advance publicity man for
Sammy Kaye, was in town ... So was Joe
Shea, who holds a similar job for the stage
show, "Detective Story" . Dudgeon's
small daughter Bernadette has been ill. He
is Tri-States drive-in expert here . . . Rich
Wilson, MGM salesman, has entered the
hospital for a checkup.
to receive the most for that which I
spend?"
Hakeem answered: "A thing that is
bought or sold has no value unless it
contains that which cannot be bought
or sold. Look for The Priceless Ingredient."
Dorothy Schuetze, Paramount booking
stenographer, was married recently to George
Goodrich. She will continue to work . . .
Richard Hildreth, 20th-Fox home office representative,
is in the city . . . Mr. and Mrs.
W. A. Johannsen, owners of the Wonderland
at Paullina, Iowa, have been visiting their
son Bill in California.
Frank HoUingsworth, Beatrice exhibitor,
underwent an operation at a local hospital.
He is back home, but will have to return for
more surgery . . . Bill Gaddoni, MGM manager,
is awaiting the arrival of a new Oldsmobile
. McCauliff, United Artists
secretary to Sid McArdle, was ill . . .
Vivian Thompson, MGM biller, was given a
necklace and earrings by co-workers on her
birthday.
The late Harold B. Johnson, U-I manager,
was one of the best sources of information
for this column. But aside from this,
a visit with him was always refreshing in
many ways. He loved to turn a phrase, to
philosophize, to talk hunting, fishing, sports
and dogs. He was a man of wide interests
and many friends.
ton, S. D., after a week here.
An allday snow Monday and zero weather
failed to keep the following off Filmrow:
George March, Vermillion. S. D.; Arnold
Meierdierks. Pender; Arnold Johnson, Onawa,
Iowa; Donald Campbell, Central City;
Ralph Martin, Moorehead. Iowa; Oliver
Schneider, Osceola, and Harry Hummel.
Scribner.
Julie Wilson, Omaha actress, put in a good
plug for motion pictures on her arrival here.
She said: "I'm dying to see some movies.
I just never have time while I'm working,
and I love them." Julie, appearing in Chicago
in the road version of "Kiss Me Kate,"
visited her parents here. Julie also confessed
she is continuing her study of voice, ballet
and dramatic and hopes her efforts also may
eventually land her the right kind of film
role on of these days.
Tri-State Heads Hold
District Meeting
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA—Tri-States
Theatres held an Omaha district powwow in
the Chieftain hotel here.
Everyone had an opportunity to inspect the
new Council Bluffs Drive-In location and to
offir suggestions to make this the superduper
drive-in of the circuit. There also
was a general meeting on product and sales.
G. Ralph Branton, general manager;
booker. Dale McFarland; Herb Loeffler of
the maintenance department, and ad expert
Russell Fraser were here from Des Moines.
Sioux City was represented by City Manager
A. Don Allen, Manager Sol Shulkin of
the State Theatre, Manager Marvin Graybeal
of the Capitol, Manager Vernon Carr
of the drive-in, and Manager Dale Russell
of the Hollywood.
City Manager Wally Kemp and Maynard
Lif of the Grand came from Grand Island;
City Manager Jimmy Pickett and Strand
Manager John Spencer from Hastings; Ira
Crane from the Bonham at Fairbury; City
Manager Bruce Shelton and William Wenz
of the Oil City from Falls City.
District Manager William Miskell also had
his Omaha managerial staff on hand.
After the meeting Branton, Miskell, Treasurer
L. McKechneay of Des Moines and Loeffler
went to Hastings and Grand Island for
an inspection.
Plans for the "perfect drive-in" to be built
here were discussed. It was disclosed that
the drive-in would accommodate about 900
cars, to make it the largest in this area.
Weather permitting, the proposed structure
on the south Omaha bridge road near
Eleventh street will be ready for opening
May 15. The drive-in will be built on a 15-
acre tract.
"The Council Bluffs drive-in will incorporate
the best elements of the 18 drive-ins
we already operate," Branton said. The com-
Mrs. Marie Kelley has replaced Gladys
Waldrep as inspector at MGM. Mrs. Kelley
had been pinch-hitting at 20th-Fox . . . Tri-
States Theatres had Mayor Cunningham at
a screening of "Samson and
pany owns 52 theatres in
Delilah"
Iowa, Nebraska and
. . .
Illinois.
Jack Kelly, MGM reprint department, was
in town from New
About 35 circuit executives
York . . . Donald Shane,
attended the
Paramount Theatre
meeting here.
manager,
Subsequent Tri-States
is the father
meetings
of a second
were held at the
child, a daughter . . . Ray,
Savery hotel in Des
the
brother of MGM salesman
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Fred
Kermit Carr and at Davenport by
Fejfar, his
wife and
H.
son
D. Groves.
left for their home in Yank-
Branton and the department
heads attended all three meetings.
Hugo Friedhofer has been signed by Producer
Samuel Goldwyn to write the score for
the RKO film, "The Edge of Doom."
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82 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

Video Projeclion Unil
At Mediapolis Swan
MEDIAPOLIS, IOWA—What is believed to
be the first television projection unit to be
installed in an Iowa theatre is in operation
on an experimental basis at the Swan here.
The unit shows a picture six by eight feet.
I. R. Glesne of the Swan has been working
on the project for the last year.
Members of the Mediapolis Lions club were
guests at the initial showing. They viewed
a program from WCC TV in Davenport.
Plans are being made for using screen television
at the Swan. Glesne said. However,
he added, when regular programs are shown
there will be no rise in admission cost to
patrons. It probably will be used first for
entertainment prior to the regular show time
and. also, for special events broadcasts whenever
they are available.
The equipment installed here was assembled
in the radio-television department
at Iowa State penitentiary in Fort Madison.
Warden Percy Lainson cooperated witTi
Inmates at the prison
Glesne on the project.
have been working on it since May 1949.
DES MOINES
Spread on 'Battleground'
MINNEAPOLIS—MGM here is tossing a
bouquet to Roy Vonderhaar. Border Theatre.
International Falls, Minn., for his selling job
on "Battleground." He dug up a former technical
sergeant from the 101st airborne regiment
whose courage at the Battle of the
Bulge forms the film's basis. Local merchants
took a double page spread in the daily newspaper
as a tribute to the technical sergeant.
who was introduced from the theatre's stage
the opening day. Despite the fact that the
temperature registered 25 below zero the day
the picture opened, it broke the house record
and the managemnt was compelled to hold
it over.
Charter Eddy Theatres
INDIANOLA. IOWA—Articles of incorporation
have been filed here for the Eddy
Theatres Corp. Authorized capital stock in
the amount of 150,000 shares has been provided.
Officers are listed as Will H. Eddy,
president: Warren W. Eddy, treasurer, and
John H. Eddy, secretary.
Son to Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Tonar
SPEARVILLE, KAS.—Mr. and Mrs. Henry
A. Tonar, owners and operators of the DeLuxe
Theatre here, recently became the parents of
a son who has been named Larry Gene.
i
COMPLETELY NEW

. . "Stromboli"
MINNEAPOLIS
consequence of their T^any members of the local film industry
H^JNNERWARE TO CARS|
were among the record-breaking crowd
fine performances
the Old Log civic theatre productions.
in
Seibel
of 18.025 who attended the Minnesota-Ohio himself left Northwestern hospital after a
State basketball game here last Saturday two-week stay will open at
night. This turnout and the more than 7,000
.
the Orpheum February 15.
who attended the Minneapolis Lakers-Washington
professional game Sunday night in the Mrs. Ralph Maw, wife of the MGM district
face of 15-below-zero weather, indicates a manager, left the hospital, recovered from
sizable portion of the public still has money her recent illness . . . RKO exchange here
for entertainment they want.
was seventh nationally in the Ned Depinet
drive
. . . Bill Mussman. Paramount sales
Chester Morris played a lead role in "Destory"
manager here, is pinch-hitting as manager
at the Lyceum. Beatrice Lillie will ap-
while Ben Blotcky and his wife vacation in
pear at the same theatre all next week Mexico for a month.
in the musical comedy. "Inside U.S.A.," whili;
Carmen Miranda makes her first Minneapolis
appearance
Estelle Sloan, dancing star of "Night and
Day," appeared in the St. Paul winter carnival
at Club Carnival . . . Bennie
Berger, North Central Allied president and
stage show, "Carnival Funatics."
theatre circuit owner, was telling everybody
about the wonderful time he and his wife
had in Cahfornia. He and Stanley Kane. Curtis. Neb„ Star Opens
North Central Allied executive director, will
CURTIS,
leave for Washington next week
NEB.—Fay Gardner has
to attend
opened
the new Star,
the national
replacing
Allied board
the old
meeting.
Star.
Berger
The
new theatre
is a candidate
has 425
for
Ideal seats,
president of the
bought
national
from
Ted Knox,
body.
as was other equipment. Projection
and sound was moved from the old Star,
The talented children of Ev Seibel,
the
Minnesota
Amusement Co. advertising and new
equipment being practically new. The
exploitation
theatre cost about $60,000. features a
head, won more theatrical fame in
cry room, hearing aids and a Cycloramic
screen.
BOX OFFICE 5TinULAT0RS Daughter to Pat Halloran
OMAHA—
NO COST TQJHEATRE
A third child and first daughter
Stephanie Jo was born to Mrs. Pat Halloran
in St. Catherine's hospital here.
^WAY EVERYTHING-
20th-Fox salesman.
Dad is a
INTERSTATE
THEATRE SERVICE
Rebuilding Plans Indefinite
GRAND FORKS. N. D.—No plans for reconstruction
of the recently destroyed State
Theatre have been made according to Manager
Ira L. Haaven. Damage to the theatre,
leveled by a flash fire resulting from a carload
of coal stored in the basement, is estimated
at $100,000.
Passing of Tax Saving
Is Urged by S. D. Kane
MINNEAPOLIS—A warning that any saving
which may be effected by repeal of the
federal admis.sion tax should be passed on
by exhibitors to then- patrons was included
in an issue of a buUetin sent by S. D. Kane,
executive director of North Central Allied,
to all members of the unit.
"If this tax is eliminated or reduced," Kane
urged, "we think it is highly important that
no exhibitor take advantage of it by failing
to pass the saving on to his customers. While
It is true that this office believes that motion
picture entertainment is the world's
greatest bargain at current admission prices,
and that if anything these prices are too
low. there is a psychology in this matter that
demands that any saving made by tax reduction
or elimination should be passed on to
our patrons.
"Should exhibitors fail to do this, we would
have lost our best and finest argument so far
as the state legislature and city and village
councils are concerned. This problem is not
an immediate one, but we urge you to include
in your letters to senators and representatives
a pledge that any tax saving
brought about by congressional action will be
passed on to the public."
Sees Robbery Attempt
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — Ralph Paris,
theatre employe, and an unidentified woman
recently witnessed an attempted hold-up of
the Palace Theatre. The burglar entered
through a fire escape about 2:55 a.m. but was
frightened off by Paris. The woman witness
took the license number of the car in which
the man fled.
Community Theatre Planned
STRATFORD, IOWA—Plans are being
made here for construction of a community
motion picture theatre—the first in this
town. Stock is being sold at $50 a share.
It is hoped to raise a total of $10,000 before
further plans are put into effect.
Your Best Buy is Griggs' New 30-line Chair!
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Capitol Theatre Remodeled
PARKER, S. D.—The Capitol Theatre has
installed a beaded screen, new projection
lenses and sound equipment. Charles Lee is
manager of the house.
A brand new chair for finer theatres.
Well constructed, comfortable, good
looking, reasonably priced. This chair
is equipped with automatic self-rising
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New Screen at Postville, Iowa
POSTVILLE, IOWA — A new screen has
been installed at the Isis Theatre here by
Manager Lloyd Palmer.
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84
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

Kansas City All -Industry Association
Formed With E,
KANSAS CITY—E. C. Rhoden, circuit executive,
became president of the newly founded
Motion Picture Ass'n of Greater Kansas
City at a meeting held Thursday (2) in the
Muehlebach hotel. A board of 15 directors
was named, with Arthur Cole as chairman,
and the first meeting of the board will be
held next week (7) to proceed with other
organizational plans.
Named to the board were Stanley Durwood,
Arthur Cole. M. D. Cohn, Senn Lawler,
Sam Abend, George Baker, R. R. Biechele,
Ben Shlyen, Jim Lewis, Robert Shelton, Louis
Patz, Jay Means, A. J. Becker and Felix Snow,
The association will serve as the industry's
unified front organization in the Kansas
City area, and membership will include all
those affiliated with the industry, including
equipment and vending people and those
members of the press and radio associated
with motion pictures.
The program will be to promote public
relations projects, to participate in civic programs,
undertake such charitable work as is
required and to provide assistance to those
within the industry who require special help.
The association also intends to have a special
committee to handle intraindustry matters
in an effort to keep industry squabbles
out of the courts.
Within the next week the association will
apply for a state charter, draft a constitution
and bylaws and get down to the actual
job of projecting the program. The work
of tlie organization will be divided among
five committees—public relations, legislative,
charitable activities, finance and membership
and industry relations.
Free Coffee and Doughnuts
To Early-Bird Patrons
OMAHA—Manager Larry Caplain offered
an early-bird opening for "All the Kings
Men" at the RKO-Brandeis. Coffee and
doughnuts were free to all the 10 a. m. Saturday
arrivals.
C. Rhoden as Head
Radio City Will Be First
To Offer Screen Video
MINNEAPOLIS—Harry B. French, president
of the Minnesota Amusement Co,, has
revealed that the Radio City Theatre here
will be one of the first four theatres in the
countrywide Paramount circuit to offer largescreen
television. Equipment, costing some
$25,000, has been ordered for the Radio City,
French said. Facilities will be in.stalled in
United Paramount Theatres in Detroit, Boston
and San Francisco, French said.
He said dates for installation of equipment
and its initial use have not been set, but that
TV, at first, will be a supplementary service,
screening special events and news.
Fire Threatens Theatre
MASON CITY, IOWA — Fire gutted the
Forest Theatre building here recently destroying
nearly a half block of the business section.
The Forest, recently remodeled, was not
damaged.
Eddie Albert will star with Lucille Ball in
the Columbia picture, "The Fuller Brush
Girl."
RESEARCH BUREAU
for
MODERN THEATRE' PLANNERS
ENROLLMENT FORM FOR FREE INFORMATION
The MODERN THEATRE
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825 Van Brunt Blvd.
Kansas City 1, Mo.
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to receive inlormalion regularly, as released, on
the following subjects for Theatre Planning:
n Acoustics D Lighting Fixtures
D Air Conditioning Q Plumbing Fixtures
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Service
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n "Black" Lighting m r. • .• t „
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n Projection Lcmps
n Building Material
n Sealing
n Carpets
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Coin Machines
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D Complete RemodelingD Sound Equipment
D Decorating
Television
D Drink Dispensers D Theatre Fronts
D Drive-In Equipment Q .Vending Equipment
D Other
Subjects
New Equipment Installed
ELLENDALE, N. D.—New equipment has
been installed in the Lyric Theatre. W. S.
Boon, member of the owning firm, said equipment
purchased includes a bigger rotary converter,
plastic silvered .screen, coated projection
lenses and sound speaker.
F. L. Norton Heads C. of C.
CALDWELL. KAS. — F. L. Norton, owner
and operator of the Ritz Theatre here, recently
was elected president of the Caldwell
Chamber of Commerce.
COSTS less
is tli.m .my comp.irahIe
M, thcTtres the worW over
use ,TncI accUiim ihcsc units as outstanHinK
l»>r (itiatily of i)crformancc
and troulile-free ser\icc. Before you
buy. compare Royal Soundmaster with
any unit. \'ou'II apree it's your best
buy ... for less.
Norm
Maintenance Co.
1017 E. Franklin St.
Minneapolis, Minn.
Complete Theatre Equivment & Supplies
Theatre
Seating
Address
City
State
Capacity
Signed
Postoge-paid reply cords tor your further convenience
in obtaining informotion are provided in The MODERN
THEATRE Section, published with the first issue of
each month.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4. 1950 85

NY TIME is a GOOD TIME
to read and use the busy
BOXOFFICE
CLASSIFIED WANT ADS
•
Use these speedy little
business builders to get
quick results at slight cost
Buyers meet sellers
Employers locate good help
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BOXOFFICE Clearing House
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lOc Per Word Per Issue: 4 Insertions for the Price of 3
86 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

Fight Is Threatened
Over Uniontown Tax
UNIONTOWN, PA.—A threatened legal tilt
in the county court stemmed from two tax
revenue amendments given first reading last
week by Uniontown council. Representing
the Pennstate Amusement Co. and the Manos
Amusement Co. in their fight against the
city's mercantile tax, Attorney J. K. Spurgeon
told city fathers: "I'll be seeing you in court."
The city's amusement tax was changed
from 4 mills to 10 mills and the mercantile
gross retail receipts levy was changed from
2 to 1'l- mills, the latter in accordance with
state-mandated action.
Spurgeon listened to the amendments and
announced that the city was wrong because
the changes propose making the total tax on
the theatres 11 'i per cent, 1^= per cent over
the city taxing power under state Act 431.
The city solicitor retaliated with the statement
that the amusement tax is not on the
theatres, but is passed on directly to thearegoers.
He explained also that the mercantile
tax is not considered as being In the same
category and simply represents a fixed percentage
of the amount of business done by
the theatre, as with other enterprises in the
city of Uniontown.
Spurgeon countered that the mercantile tax
on the theatres is also wrong because the
theatres are not selling merchandise. Second
and final readings for the proposed amendments
will be held February 7, according to
schedule. Under the tax ordinances, it was
revealed that pool rooms and bowling alley.s
are not being taxed under the amusement
levy.
Mrs. Homer Cox Is Credited
With Averting Fire Panic
QUINCY, MICH.— Mi-s. Homer Cox is credited
with averting a serious panic in the Our
Theatre here recently. Mrs. Cox is the wife
of the theatre owner. Mrs. Cox asked the
audience of 100 persons to file out of the theatre
shortly after the blaze was discovered in
the projection room. Her husband released a
fire extinguisher and other devices which
quenched the fire before firefighters arrived.
Damage was estimated at $1,000.
Clark Service Adds Four
DETROIT—Clark Theatre Service,
headed
by William Clark, is adding four houses to
the string of theatres for which it handles
buying and booking. The houses are the
Fowler, Fowlerville, operated by the Wilson
Theatre Co.: the Roxy, Howard City, operated
by Ralph Reichle: and two new houses,
the new 900-seat Gold Front being built at
Cheboygan by John C. McLelland and the
Harlem. Negro house at Battle Creek, under
construction for Fred C. Weyman.
Six Huntington Theatres
Challenge City Tax Act
CHARLESTON, W. VA.—The right of West
Virginia cities to impose a levy on amusements
as a "privilege tax" has been challenged
as unconstitutional in the state supreme
court.
The question brought by six Huntington
theatre owners is this: Is the tax of two
cents per admission imposed on Huntington
theatres by municipal ordinance last summer
a licen.se tax or a consumers sales tax?
The city of Huntington contended the tariff
was a license tax which, it added, it was
authorized by its charter and subsequent
legislative action to levy. Theatre owners
argued in hearings here that it was a consumers
sales tax which the city had no right
to impose. Furthermore, they contended, if
the tax is construed as a license tax it produces
double taxation and is unconstitutional
on those grounds. The theatres, they told
the court, already pay a license tax and a
gross sales tax to the city.
The levy is not being collected because
the Cabell circuit court agreed with the theatre
owners and issued a temporary injunction
against the city. In passing this ruling
to the judges for decision, the circuit
court also asked the state supreme court to
decide whether the city council acted in
accordance with its own rules in passing the
tax ordinance. The theatre owners argued
that they are but the collecting agency and
the ticket buying public is the taxpayer.
"One must conclude." they stated, "that the
ordinance's self-styled designation as being
one creating a privilege tax does not make
it so."
Huntington passed the levy last July 28
and it was to have been effective last August
1. The theatre owners already pay
two $160 privilege taxes to the federal and
state governments, also city license and gross
sales taxes, and privilege levies. The theatres
pointed out "many cities in the state
of West Virginia have levied an amusement
tax much broader in scope than the Huntington
tax," including Charleston and Clarksburg.
The argument was that it could not
be considered a consumers sales tax since
there was no provision for adding the tax
to the cost of services charged the public.
The action was brought by the Beverly
Amu.sement Co., West-Moreland Amusement
Co.. Palace Amusement Co.. Tliird Avenue
Theatre Co., the Greater Huntington Theatre
Corp., and the A&M Corp.
Builder of Prefab Houses
To Construct Drive-In
OIL CITY, PA.—An outdoor theatre will
be constructed and opened early in the spring
on Route 8 six miles out of Oil City on the
road to Titusville for A. V. Kunes of Butler.
Fourteen acres of land was acquired as the
site for the unnamed drive-in. A concrete
block screen tower will be constructed which
will "back" to the highway and automobile
capacity will be 750. Kunes is a prefab hou.se
builder in the Butler area.
Film Course at College
DETROIT—A new course, "Advanced History
and Appreciation of the Motion Picture,"
deahng principally with foreign films, will be
offered during the spring semester by the
speech department of Wayne university.
Course is offered on either a credit basis or
noncredit basis and will meet every Tuesday
from 7 to 9 p.m. Instructors will be Leonard
Leone and John McCabe.
Many Book Cassidy Series
DETROIT—Albert Dezel Productions, Inc.,
has been booking the Hopalong Cassidy series
of 12 into many of the important circuit
houses in Chicago and adjoining territories
as a result of the terrific amount of publicity
that Bill Boyd has received in connection with
the televising of Hopalong Cassidy subjects.
Exhibitors are playing these subjects one
every week for 12 weeks.
BOXOFFICE :; February 4, 1950
KENTUCKY MANAGERS—These Chakeres Theatres. Inc., managers were present
for the screo.-jinK of the MGM picture "Baltlefirround " at the Capital Theatre in Frankrort
Ky Left to right, seated: Eric Hammel of the Shelby and Burley. Shelby ville;
lorn Maxedon of the Trail. Morehcad; Gene Lutz, of the Capital, Frankfort, and also
Kentucky district manager, and Art Wahl of the Grand at Frankfort. Standing: Wayne
Krazee of the Leeds. Winchester: Bob Dod.son. Grant, Williamstown; Omer Goodpasture.
Mills. Morehead, and .lack Carouthers. Harrod. Harrodsburg.
ME
87

BOWLING
the
DETROIT—Allied retained the lead in
Film Bowling league with Theatrical. S&G
and Monogram in a three-way tie for second
place. High three team for the week:
Theatrical 2738. Co-Op 2574 and S&G 2545,
High one team: UA 927. S&G 886. UA 924
and Co-Op 886. High three individual score:
L. Metzger 635. J. Pavella 614 and J. Crane
610. High one individual: D. Fill 254. D.
Kaplan 243 and A. Koskie 241.
In the 200 club: D. Fill 254, F. Harr 215.
J. Pavella 213, J. Crane 209-201, R. Buermele
208, J. Belinsky 201, W. Goryl 200 and .J
Susami 200. Team standings are:
Team Won Lost Team Won Lost
Allied 6 2 Co-Op 4 4
Theatrical
SSG .
5
5
3
3
UA
RepubUc
4
2
4
6
Monogram 5 3 REO 1 7
DETROIT—Secretary Akins of the Nightingale
Club Bowling league here was to talk
with Tom Fitzgerald in Cleveland immediately
about the forthcoming match games
of the two leagues. The first will take place
here March 7. In the local league play National
Carbon Co. retains the lead with Ernie
Forbes Theatre Supply staying in second
place. 200 games were rolled by Roy Thompson
209, William Fouchey 209 and Jack Colwell
200. B. Douville, M. Scheuer and Frieda
Cox were tops among the girl keglers.
Team standings are:
Team
Won Lost
30 38
30 33
28 40
team, with a total of 2,992 points, rolled the
Motion Picture Operators Bowling league's
highest team score of the season. The team
also rolled a 1044 for a single team again.st
the National Theatre Supply.
Gordon Bullock chalked up the highest
score of 211-595, while Earl Gehringer finished
with 224-587 and Paul Collins rolled 195-
553. Tom Smart, league president, had 225-
552 and Jack Shafer had 187-539. Secretary
Tom. Fitzgerald just got under the wire with
- 44 Supply.-
a 201 score.
Team standings are:
Team Won Team
Auto Voice 4B RCA
National GoTwin
_....42 Mobiltone
tJnion
Anchor
Federated
Inn 39 OUver Supply .
Wo
37
Grand Rapids Art Sold
DETROIT — The Art Theatre at Grand
Rapids, formerly operated as the Fox by Milton
Jacobson, owner of the Stone here, is being
taken over by Albert May, newcomer in
show business who has hitherto operated a
grocery in Detroit. The house is reopening with
a subsequent run policy of action pictures
after being closed for sometime. Booking
will be handled by Clark Theatre Service of
Detroit.
CLEVELAND — The Anchor Inn bowling

. .
. . Clark
at
. . Wellsburg
. . The
LOUISVILLE
•The application for a twin diive-in permit
on Crittenden drive at Dakota, made by
the American Drive-In Theatre Co., has been
approved by the planning and zoning commission.
According to present plans, the theatre
will accommodate approximately 1,6C0
cars with 900 on one side of a double screen
and 700 on the other. The American Drive-In
Co. also operates the Skyway Drive-In near
Buechel.
possible for each student and teacher to see
actual operation of projection and sound
equipment, explaining the features in each.
The film, "Carbon Arc Projection," put out
by the National Carbon Co., was run with
several other short subjects.
J. E. Elliott jr., manager of the Cardinal.
Hodgenville, was here to visit the Row and
take in the "Holiday on Ice" show at the
Jefferson County armory here.
Gus Ansbach jr. has replaced Donald Jos-
$8,427 ERECTS THIS
NEW SCREEN TOWER
A FEW OUTSTANDING FEATURES
.tiOverall size: 50 ft. x 40
ft.
Screen size: 44 ft. x 33
^ All 4 sides
painted
* 2- Line 24 It. Wagner
Attraction Board
^ Band of Ligiits in
Front of Tower
Ready for the Picture
Notliing else to buy
Thehtre EquipmEiiT [o.
—
.
key as operator at the Kenwood Drive-In
here Bennett, co-owner of the
Valley, Taylorsville, is planning a trip to
Exhibitors seen
California and Hawaii . . .
on the Row recently included Oscar Hopper.
Arista, Lebanon; C. O. Humston, Lyric, Lawrenceburg:
Homer Wirth. Crane. Crane, Ind.-
Hugh Kessler, Pal, Palmyra. Ind.: Tex Richards,
State, Crothersville, Ind.; R. L. Ga.itrost.
Victory, Vine Grove; E. L. Ornstein.
Rialto. Marengo, Ind.; Bob Enoch, State.
Elizabeth town: George Lindsay, Lindsay,
Brownsville, and Denzil Herberschoff, Shepherd,
Shepherdsville.
The Kentucky Ass'n of Theatre Owners
made an urgent appeal to its members to
help in every way to assist the March of
Dimes in its campaign against polio ... In
a recent KATO-GRAM the Kentucky Ass'n
of Theatre Owners welcomed the following
new members to its rolls: Jack Story, Mary
Agnes, Jamestown; John S. Hollan and Crawford
Adkins, Jaxon. Jackson; Tom E. Hill.
Florence Drive-In, Florence: M. H. Ferriss,
Bonn. Bonnieville; Allen & Allen, Mary Jane,
Caneyville. and Harry Whitefield, Union,
Uniontown.
Bills introduced in the general assembly at
Frankfort included senate bill 67 by H. Stanley
Blake of Nicholas, to establish a division
of film censorship under supervision of the
department of business regulations. Senate
bill 68 was introduced also by Blake to provide
tor censorship of all motion picture films
shown publicly in the state.
"Pinky," selected as one of the ten best pictures
of the year, finally opened at the
Rialto. Other new programs included "Montana."
which opened as a singleton at the
Mary Anderson. The Strand, in with a dou-
I)1p bill, featured "Square Dance Jubilee" and
Call of the Forest," while Loew's advertised
Mrs. Mike" and "Girls' School." The Brown
took over "The Heiress" after a previous week
at the Rialto, while the Scoop featured reissues
in "Hor.se Feathers" and "Monkey
Business."
WfST VIRGINIA
Tex Beneke orchestra was a stage attraction
at tlte Warner in Morgantown January 30,
and at the Ritz in Clarksburg January 31 . . .
Donn Wermuth. former Warner circuit house
manager who has operated at Wermuth
Travel Service at Fairmont for several years,
now is a member of the air traffic conference
and the International Air Transport Ass'n,
thus being eligible to handle any type of air
traffic anywhere in the world.
Ira B. Dyer, owner of the Clinton, Albany,
has sold his drive-in at Ocala, Fla., and plans Floyd Morrow, executive director of tlie "President Truman's failure to include in
to return to his native state. Kentucky East and Dixie drive-ins here, has returned his list of tax reductions that directly affect
.
In an effort to promote goodwill among from his annual Florida vacation and is the public, the present 20 per cent amusement
townspeople, Eddie L. Ornstein, owner of preparing for the reopening of his drive-ins tax. is an injustice," writes Bill DeMuth of
tiie
Rialto, Marengo, Ind., staged a special program
to acquaint students and teachers w'ith and manager of the Eminence. Eminence, age family to go to a movie, there is a giant
for the coming season . . . A. N. Miles, owner the Wheeling News-Register. "For the aver-
the operation and management of a theatre.
after holding out many years finally has contribution in taxes which the public deserves
to have chopped. A reduction would
On hand for tlie affair were some 233 students
and their teachers. Eddie took the
broken down and has consented to the installation
of a popcorn machine in conjunction
with other concessions.
family because half of the tax would go into
help to heighten a night at the theatre for a
group on a tour of his theatre, explaining
after-show treat or into other business channels.
If the luggage and cosmetics industrie;
the equipment, its operation, etc., and even
took them behind the scenes to explain the
buying and booking of pictures, pickup and
can be so favored, (and much of the latter
is pure luxury), whereas theatre entertainment
is es.sential to the welfare of the people,
delivery service and concessions. In explaining
operation of the booth, Eddie made it
then other avenues of tax should get a break."
'Kings's Men' Scores 140
As Cincinnati Leader
CINCINNATI—"All the King's Men" at the
Palace registered a lusty 140 per cent to .set
the pace for new attractions on downtown
screens. "The Inspector General" at the
Albee was close behind with a rating of 130
per cent. A second week of "Sands of Iwo
"
Jima the Lyi-ic topped holdovers.
Albee— The Inspector General (WB) 130
CcI^llol— Intruder in the Dust (MGM) 80
Grana—Brimstone i;ie;j, 80
Kei:hs—The Pirates of Copri (FC) 105
Lyric-Sards ol Iwo lima (Rep). 2nd d. t. wk 120
Palace— All the King's Men (Col) 140
.Av...-. - The Great Lover (Para). 2nd d. t. wit IOC
Prepares California Short
A Technicolor short, "The Miracle of the
West,' depicting the hi.story of California.
will be produced by Gordon Hollingshead for
Warner release.
Wheeling Mayor Carl Bachmann got himself
in the Punxsutawney, Pa., mixup in the
"When Willie Comes Marching Home" exploitation,
stating that Wheeling will become
Punxsutawney for one day. February 6. and
that he has named Colleen Townsend mayor
for a day . has a new municipal
recreation area five blocks long, a portion of
which will be available for playground use
next summer . Virginia at Parker-sburg
featured a stage show January 24 with Cherokee
Sue and her Hill Folks, including the
Gospel Singers, Little John, Dot and Smokey.
Good News for the Small Town Exhibitor
"Protect Your Investment"
Investigate the possibilities oi starling a PORT-
ABLE 16mm ROUTE OF STORE ROOM THEATRES
in your nearby communities.
ALSO INVESTIGATE the possibilities ol building a
300 car 16mm DRIVE-IN THEATRE, complete with
30x40 loot screen lor SS, 000.00.
We rent or sell all makes ol lomm "arc" oi
"bulb" projection eqpt. We have the world'g
largest libraries from coast to coast. 100% availability
on all 16mm sound lilm product on (he
market, such as "Fox. Universal-International. Columbia,
etc." Rental rates lor lull length leatures
with three shorts and serial. S7.50 & SIO.OO etc.
For complete details and a copy of our latest 30th
anniversary catalogue, write to the lollowing
address:
IDEAL PICTURES CO.
A. I. St. Cloir, Rep. Box 310 Beckley, W. Va.

. . Colosseum
. .
. .
. . John
. . The
. . Max
. . Filmrow
. . Outdoor
. . Mr.
. . The
PITTSBURGH
pianist,
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. Kanfas^ci'ty^yo' Harris Newsreel, has recovered following an
XZZilliam H. Thompson, fourth district secretary
under way with the expectation that the new
and business agent of lATSE outdoor theatre will be ready for opening
Local 171, Pittsburgh, installed the newly early in the spring. Kunes, who has been
elected officers of New Kensington-Tarentum building houses in Butler for direct sale to
Local 444. Ralph Milberger of the home local home buyers for several years, will withdraw
was in charge of an excellent buffet luncheon from that business.
served following the meeting. His aides were
Charles Wolfe and Harry G. Hogg.
Students at the Pennsylvania State college
at State College, Pa., are learning the
The Lou Hannas are expected to return fundamentals of making motion pictures in
from their Florida vacation this weekend. Lou a new course in education introduced this
was to depart immediately for Chicago where semester. John H. Tyo, who teaches the new
he will join George F. Callahan jr., in sessions course, explains a knowledge of making motion
pictures can be helpful for men conducting
of the National Film Carriers Ass'n . . . Tito
Gobbi in "Musica Probita" was exhibited for
research work and also for educators in-
five days this week at the Metropolitan in
them
terested in making simple films to aid
Centre on Centre in their teaching. The first production made
the Bloomfield district . . .
avenue is showing one foreign film by the students runs seven minutes, is in
having inaugurated the new policy February color and describes the proper way to make a
each week,
1 and 2 with "Passionnelle" and "Torment." French omelet.
Delp's six-floor warehouse in congested A Barn Dance Jamboree was a stage attraction
Soho (uptown Fifth avenue) was destroyed
at Shea's in
New
Bradford January
was
27
by fire Friday evening last week with a $125,-
000 loss. Theatre Candy Co., on the first floor,
. . . Richard Farrell, Zealand
presented at the Arcadia in Windber by the
lost $50,000. according to Alex Showe .
Community Concert Ass'n . . . Exploiting
Star Distributing Agency moved from Van "The Red Shoes," the Evening Standard at
Braam street to the second floor rear at 1705 Uniontown pictiu-ed Joe Bugala, manager of
Blvd. of the Allies. Vincent J. Corso is manager
the Manos, and assistant Frances Staboulis
. of Motion Picture Sales-
receiving the print from AU-American Air-
men Loge 31 is publishing a program in connection
Nittany at State College exhibited
ways . . .
with its Lincoln birthday dinner "The Mad Monk," story of Rasputin . . .
dance February 12 at the William Perm hotel. Charles R. Blatt, circuit exhibitor, quitting
cigarets, has been tapering off by smoking
M. S. "Mort" England, veteran of Filmrow
who maintains an office here but who spends
a pipe.
most of his time in Miami where he is associated
Rex Kantner, Route 22 drive-in projectionist,
with his brother Art in the small loan
from a California vacation, mak-
returned
business, has been ill but now is much improved
ing a short stop en route home at Las Vegas.
and is recuperating at his Florida The short stop was too long, he discovered
home . . . Ike Browarsky, city area exhibitor, too late . . . Capitol at Butler offered the
reduced while vacationing in New York .
WWVA Wheeling Jamboree on stage January
Sympathy to Walter Mackin. Railway Express
26 . . . Blatt circuit has been presenting Chief
agent for Filmrow, whose father died Cherokee Bill in his gun, knife and whip act
21.
January
. . Prospective tenants for the old theatre
auditorium at Evans City insist that it will
The drive-in which Arthur Kunes will construct
between Titusville and Oil City is lo-
be remodeled and reopened. They brand as
false
cated on part of the old Dorsey Marsh farm
any reports that the property cannot
be put in order.
on Route 8 in Cherrytree township, Venango
county. It includes 12 acres, much of it level
and at an altitude of 1,580 feet, nearly 400
State police are holding two men who have
admitted that they robbed the home of Pete
feet higher than the city. Topsoil has been Profili. retired exhibitor at Vestaburg. Profili's
stripped from the plot and construction is 500-pound safe, carried out of his residence
while he was away, has been recovered, and
most of its contents was found.
SAM FINEBERG Bernard Buchheit, assistant to Mike Manos,
circuit exhibitor, has returned from a business
TOM McCLEARY trip to New York . . . Loew's Penn was an
hour late in opening the other morning because
1705 Blvd. of the Allies^
of a blazing drape on the mezzanine
floor which filled the auditorium with smoke.
PITTSBURGH 19, PA. ~
Stagehands and theatre engineers doused the
fire of undetermined origin, which caused a
Phone EXpresB 0777
\
$1,000 damage . H. Oakes, Cochranton
John Deere dealer, staged a free show for
FOR SALE
farmers and their families January 26 at the
Simplex Mechanisms $750 per pair; Guaranteed
Iris in Cochranton. "Roots in the Soil" and
factory rebuilt. Prices f.o.b. Chicago or
New York
other features were exhibited .
Council
of Orthodox Churches of Greater Johns-
laciory.
Now installing new machines throughout large
circuit. Contact us today. Terms il desired.
ALBANY THEATRE SUPPLY CO.
town sponsored the show^ing of "The Mozart
Story" at the Park there.
1046 Broadway 5-5055 Albany. N. Y.
The Pennsylvania Ass'n of County Fairs, at
its 38th annual convention in Bedford (25-27)
DRIVE-IN THEATRE CENTER AISLE LIGHTS
With numbered Panels for Ramps with Opaque Panels
again took up the battle to legalize parimutuel
horse race betting in the Keystone
John O. Hooley. manager of the
for Driveway Illumination
state . . .
Charles Laughton
operation performed . . .
will review the classics at an appearance February
21 in Syria Mosque.
Bud Hahn, Harris circuit short film booker,
has returned home from Mercy hospital after
undergoing an operation . Theatre
Co. stockholders met Monday evening at the
Village Inn, Jeannette .
Employes
Union F-11 installed Al Lostetter as president
again at the annual dinner party last Saturday
evening in the Roosevelt hotel . . . Mr.
and Mrs. Nate Lazier of Berlo Vending Co.
were January 27 hosts at the Variety Club'.s
family night party.
Paul Krumenacker, Warner exchange executive,
is a grandpop. His daughter Mrs.
Anita Algier became the mother of a son . . .
Harry Thomas, Eagle Lion executive, and
Morry Goldstein, Monogram sales executive,
Marcia Cohen, EL
were Filmrow visitors . . .
booker, underwent a sinus operation in
W. C. Riester, manager
Montefiore hospital . . .
of the Columbia at Sharon, endorsed
"Hasty Heart" in newspaper advertising . . .
Ed Shaffer, Slippery Rock exhibitor and Allied
director, has been suffering with pleurisy
. . . David Green, proprietor of the Beacon
in Squirrel Hill, is recuperating at home
after being hospitalized. A son Ralph manages
the theatre.
. . .
The Starllte Drive-In near Uniontown is
the only outdoor theatre open north of the
Mason and Dixon line. Ted Laskey decided
long ago not to close it and he has had a
grand break in the weather .
and Mrs.
Michael Manos and Louis Manos are vacationing
The
in Florida for four weeks Kayton at Franklin staged a square dance
January 26 in conjunction with the opening
of "Roseanna McCoy."
Earl and Geraldine Beckwith are parents
of a son named James Robert, born January
24 at Spangler. Earl is film buyer for the
Blatt circuit . . . Barry, with a new downtown
policy, got off to a very good start with "The
Red Shoes" . . . Kathryn Nist, operator of
Warner circuit's poster department, and
Charles Mason of the booking department,
engaged for more than a year, honeymooned
in Washington following their marriage January
21.
Francis Seubert is no longer a member of
the Co-op booking department . M. A.
Rosenbergs forwarded a post card from the
Raleigh hotel at Miami Beach, where they are
enjoying a vacation for several weeks . . .
RKO's "The Outlaw" was being hurried into
the Stanley Cohen, Film Classics
.
executive and at one time Universal branch
manager here, was in town to confer with
Leo Gottlieb.
James Comiskey of Dormont is the new
student booker at the RKO exchange . . .
Henry Friedman of the Penn at Ambridge was
here from his home and headquarters at
Philadelphia. His brother-in-law, Harry Norman
Ball, trustee for the Penn, is continuing
his antitrust action in federal court against
the major film distributors . . . Robert O'Malley,
Warners' New Oakland manager, and
Shirley Interthal were to be married February
4.
Dr. Harry C. Winslow, MeadvUle surgeon,
theatre and radio station owner, is among
northwestern Pennsylvania leaders who are
urging Ray F. Smock, state highways secretary,
to announce his candidacy for governor.
90
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

. . Guy
. . The
. , New
. .
. . Two
. . The
. . Joe
. .
NewboIdKeesling
Theatres Are Sued
BLUEFIELD. W. VA.—J. C. Newbold and
E. L. Keesling. both of Bramwell. and companies
through which they allegedly control
or manage 20 theatres, 18 of which are in
West Virginia, were named defendants in
civil suits brought here last week by seven
major film distributors who claim boxoffice
reports from these theatres were incorrect.
Columbia. Loew's. Paramount. RKO. United
Artists. Universal and Warners asked the
court to determine how much is allegedly
owed them and to grant judgments plus
damages of unspecified amounts. The film
companies in individual complaints claim the
Newbold-Keesling circuit over the past ten
years has reported gross admissions lower
than they actually were. Attorneys for the
exhibitors have moved for dismissal of all
seven actions.
PENDING NEARLY TWO YEARS
Theatres named as defendants are at Bramwell,
the Bramwell: Charleston, the Lyric,
Hinton, Masonic and Ritz; laeger. the laeger:
McComas. the McComas; Northfork, the
Freeman; Oak Hill. May fair and Oak Hill;
Omar, the Omar; Ronceverte. Grand; Sophia,
the Sophia; Soeiicer. Robey and Wood; Mount
Hope, Royal; Holden. Pioneer; War, Grand
and War; Pocahontas, Va., Palace, and Stone.
Stone. Ky.. Stone.
Tlie civil actions are similar to 15 others
which have been pending in federal court
here nearly two years. Eight of the old
actions are against Lloyd E. Rogers, mayor
of Welch, and companies allegedly controlled
by him. He operates theatres at Welch, Man,
Davy and Elbert. Seven suits are against
Mannie Shore of War, former operator of
theatres at War and Holden. The Rogers and
Shore suits have been consolidated for trial
Complainants against Rogers are Columbia,
Loew's. RKO. Paramount, 20th-Fox, United
Artists. Universal and Warners. All except
United Artists also brought suit against Shore.
RECORD INSPECTION APPROVED
Rogers and Shore denied all allegations
and asserted the purpose of the 15 suits was
to "acquire valuable confidential information
pertaining to the busine.ss of the defendants."
particularly information on revenue from
films produced by companies other than the
plaintiffs. Rogers and Shore also charged the
licensing agreements under which they exhibited
films were illegal because they contained
price-fixing arrangements "pursuant
to a general price-fixing con.spiracy" by the
distributors.
Judge Ben Moore denied a defense motion
for a separate trial on the issue of the legality
Bellview Theatre Dark
GLASSMERE, PA. — The Bellview has
closed and is out of business.
CINCINNATI
phe Guild Theatre, which played a series of
seven operatic pictures January 29-February
4, set aside February 1 for a benefit
performance for the Variety Club Welfare
fund. The screen attraction was "Lucia di
Lammermoor," with seats selling at $2.4-0. tax
included.
Mrs. Louise Needham, wife of Jack Needham.
Columbus, died recently at age of 40.
Needham formerly was associated with the
local 20th-Fox exchange for many years as
salesman and now has a booking and buying
agency. Needham recently acquired interest
in the Delyn Tlieatre. New Straitsville. Besides
her husband. Mrs. Needham is survived
by a son John.
Messrs. Banks and Shor, Williamson, W. Va..
have acquired the drive-in at Goodie. Ky..
across the river from Williamson. The theatre
will be operated by the Pikeville-Williamson
Amusement Co. . . . Al Thalheimer. Logan.
W. Va., and his wife are vacationing in Florida
. . . Many theatres in Kentucky and West
Virginia are opening and closing due to unsettled
conditions in the coal fields . . . Louis
Wiethe, chcuit exhibitor who was laid up
with a broken ankle, is back on the active list.
Nat Levy, eastern division manager for
RKO. his assistant Prank Drumm and Morris
Lefko. eastern central district manager.
Cleveland, conducted the first drive meeting
here in connection with the current Ned
Depinet drive. Salesmen present included
Jack Furrer. West Virginia; Dave Litto. Kentucky;
Lloyd Krause. Columbus; Lee Heidingsfeld.
Dayton, and Jack Frisch, Cincinnati.
Keesling and Newbold's new house in Logan,
W. Va., now under construction. Is expected
to be opened about March 15. It will
have 1,000 seats, and will be named the
Guyan. It will show first run product .
In about 30 days Warner salesmen will receive
new Ford cars to be operated under
the company policy. Joe Small. Warner auditor,
is working in the Cincinnati branch.
Tom Hill, Ernst Realty Co.. Covington,
Ky.. which operates the Liberty. Madison and
Broadway theatres and a drive-in there, is
in Florida with his wife . drive-ins
are under construction in Vevay. Ind.. and
CarroUton. Ky. . Greathouse, Audora,
Ind., plans to join his wife .soon in
Florida where she has been vacationing . . .
M. G. Thomas, division manager, Altec Service,
left for Los Angeles to attend the annual
convention of the company. Thomas
just returned from a three-week trip through
the south.
of licensing agreements. He granted plaintiffs'
motions for inspection of theatre records.
He
John Kelley, manager. National Theatre
also overruled motions for dismissal
Supply, left for a convention of the company
of the suits on gi-ounds that less than $3,000
in Los Angeles . husband of Ruth
is involved in each action and that the federal
court thus lacks jurisdiction.
Kohls, bookkeeper. MGM. underwent an appendectomy.
ITie couple was married last
A claim that le.ss than $3,000 is involved
in each case also is listed among
November . . . William Poppe, booker, UA,
the grounds
on which Newbold
was re-elected president of Local F-37. Tony
and Keesling seek dismissal
of the actions. Neither set of cases is
KnoUman was renamed business agent.
expected to come to trial at the current term
Other officers are Jim Christian. U-I. vicepresident;
Peggy Hornschmeyer, secretary,
of court.
and Florence Herman, treasurer.
BOXOmCE :
Cooperative Theatres Service has taken over
booking and buying for the Strand and Abigail
theatres. Prestonburg, Ky. The Strand
is owned by John Allen and the Abigail by
. H. T. Allen, no relation father of
Margaret Mergenthal, inspector for States
Film Service, died recently . . . Visitors on
Pilmrow included Hughes and Carnahan of
Beattyville and Manchester. Ky.; John Gregory.
Dayton; Bob Harrell. Cleves; Mrs.
Charles Bowles. Russellville. Ky.; R. A. Emrick,
Germantown. and Nat Wolf and Ted
Minsky of Warners. Cleveland. The Shea
Ohio managers also made their monthly visit
to the exchanges accompanied by Carroll
Lawler of New York.
New officers of Local B-37 are Laura Finney,
head inspector. 20th-Fox. president;
Pete Linnett. National Screen, vice-president;
John Dressen. National Screen, business
agent; Dave Schreiber, U-I, financial secretary
and treasurer, and Velma Sebree, RKO,
secretary.
Clyde and Therese Kimbrell, 20th-Fox,
celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary
and treated co-workers with one of Therese's
famous concoctions—pumpkin delight . . .
Irene Sagel, office manager, 20th-Fox, left
by automobile for a vacation in Florida .
Charles Freiman. home office representative,
was a visitor at Paramount.
Dick Condon of Hollywood. Paramount Pictures
Co., brought an exhibit of material
used in "Sam.son and Delilah " to the Terrace
Plaza hotel here for press, radio and
Joyce Wilneer,
television representatives . . .
clerk, U-I, and Jack Lauman plan to be
Clarence Littler, former
married April 29 . . .
manager of the Majestic. Columbus, one
of the Midstate Theatres circuit, has assumed
managership of the chain's Madison
Theatre in Cincinnati. The Majestic is being
dismantled.
Tenthree Society had a dessert-card party
at the Variety Clubrooms. On February 11,
barkers will give an appreciation dinner to
the women of Tenthree Society for their
work in aid of the Variety charitable work
. . . Jules Ziegler resigned as West Virginia
.salesman for Columbia ... At the first
meeting of the new directors of the Variety
Club means of raising funds for welfare were
discus.sed.
for a honeymoon in New York. The girls
of the UA office gave a shower for Mary
at the Patio . new employes at
Realart are Sybil Burstein. billing clerk, and
Lois Hicks, stenographer . Bohn.
manager of Realart. Indianapolis, was here
for a conference with Lee Goldberg ... In
the :ity from the Realart office in New York,
was Carroll Puciato, controller.
Whitesburg House Opens
Mary Canaratta, office manager's secretary,
UA, was married to Frank Wettenkamp
at St. Augustus church and the couple left
WHITESBURG. KY.—The 800-seat Alene
Theatre was to be opened here immediately
by the Cumberland Amusement Co.. according
to J. E. Isaac, president and general manager.
The new theatre features a modernistic
lobby and foyer, a cry room and air conditioning.
Cumberland Amusement also operates
the Kentucky here.
What have YOU done today to help secure
repeal of the unfair amusement tax?
: February 4, 1950 91

. . Milton
. . Edward
. . Steve
. . Scott
: February
Lower Parking Rates
Set in Cleveland
CLEVELAND — The complaints of downtown
theatre owners against inadequate parl£ing
facilities and what they claim to be excessive
downtown parking lot rates, has been
at least half solved. Parking lot owners in
the theatre area have agreed to lower their
rates from 75 cents and $1 for a 2V-!-hour
period to 35 cents and 50 cents.
While this does not provide nearly enough
parking space, it at least brings the rates to
a level not prohibitive to prospective theatre
patrons. Exhibitors, in their complaint to
Mayor Thomas A. Burke, states that their
business was jeopardized by the dual hazard
of space and price.
DELUXE
THEATRE EQUIPMENT
* BRENKERT PROJECTORS
* RCA SOUND SYSTEMS
*RCA RECTIFIERS
ORCA SOUND SCREENS
* BRENKERT LAMPS
"INTERNATIONAL CHAIRS
* MOHAWK CARPET
HORSTMAN MARQUEES
"ADLER
LETTERS
* CENTURY GENERATORS
*KOLDRINK BARS
•"STAR POPCORN MACHINES
*NEUMADE PRODUCTS
•COINOMETER CHANGERS
* STAGE EQUIPMENT
DRIVE-IN THEATRES OUR
SPECIALTY
ERNIE FORBES
THEATRE SUPPLY
Film Bldg., Detroit 1, Mich.
Days
WO 1-1122
WO 1-1123
Nights
VE 7-1227
DETROIT
. . .
. . . Nick
Cam Sanders, projectionist at the Allen Park
Theatre, returned from a brief trip to Kentucky
to visit his brother. Roy C. Thompson
of the Wayne Drive-In pinch-hitted
Clarence Symons is readying the new Fort
Drive-In for an early opening . Mc-
Namara, bookkeeper at the Allen Park, doubles
at the Michigan Drive-In
George, circuit operator, left with his cousin
Stoyan Cristowe for a trip to Fort Wayne
and St. Louis, planning to visit a number
of theatres en route.
Walter Aller, who was with the DeLodder
circuit many years, has decided to remain
out of show business . . . T. J. Kirby of the
Fox is slated to return from a Florida vacation
soon . R. Combs of the Atlas
Chair and Equipment Co. returned from a
business trip to Cincinnati . . . Mr. and Mrs.
Floyd H. Akins officially represented Detroit
at the dedication of the new lATSE Local
160 hall at Cleveland.
Maurice Beers and Welber Haartge will be
defending champions at the Michigan Federation
of Labor tournament this year. The
Nightingales will enter four two-man teams
in the event . J. Weisfeldt, who
has been general manager of Associated Theatres
several years, will resign. Maxie Gealer,
who has been with the circuit in an executive
capacity, will assume added duties . . . Chuck
Killinger, former relief manager for Associated,
now is on the night shift at the Loop,
with Jack Buckley going back to the "in between"
shift.
. . .
Edgar Douville, chairman of the banquet
committee, is planning the 25th anniversary
Sam
celebration of the Nightingales
Arnold, former independent booker, was ailing
with a possible heart condition . . . Edward
A. Long is the new president of the
Michigan Sign Contractors Ass'n. . . Fred
.
DeLodder. circuit chief, returned from a business
trip to the west coast . . . Sam Greisman
is taking a short vacation before disclosing
his future plans after leaving the Korman
circuit . . Arthur Weisberg has been transferred
.
from the Columbia, which he recently
reopened for Korman, to the Senate to replace
Phil Zeller, who has gone to Chicago.
Prank Bollacker moved from the Atlas to take
the Columbia helm, and Mrs. Marie Jeffress,
formerly of the Lancaster and Majestic,
moved to the Atlas.
. . . Hal
Edith Talcott of the Korman staff was back
from five weeks in Florida . Kowalczyk.
formerly of the Rex, returned from
Buffalo to manage the Columbia
Leroy is managing the President for the
William Schulte, independent
Affiliated circuit . . .
circuit owner, left for Arizona to
recuperate from injuries received in an accident
Christmas day. Headquarters of the
circuit are being moved downtown to the Fox
Theatre building, under the supervision of
Tony Cici.
William Flemion, Lippert Pictures local
manager, will introduce Robert L. Lippert,
president, to the local trade February 6 . . .
C. W. Clark reports rapid progress on his new
drive-in at Etearborn, with an April opening
Gene Autry offered his
now probable . . .
services without charge for a repeat show at
Flint recently with reduced prices for youngsters
... An opening date for Bill Schulte's
new Ryan has not been disclosed.
—
'Jolson' Earns Big 200
In Pittsburgh Harris
PITTSBURGH—The J. P. Harris had a
winner in "Jolson Sings Again," which doubled
average and won an automatic holdover.
"Mrs, Mike" at Loew's Penn hit average and
"Sands of Iwo Jima" was strong in its third
and final week at the FMlton.
(Average !s 100)
Fulton—Sands of Iwo lima (Rep). 2nd wk 100
Harris-Jolson Sings Again (Col) 200
Penn—Mrs. Mike (UA) 100
Stanley—Thelma lordon 70
_ (Para)
Warner—The Hasty Heart (WB). 2nd d t. wk 90
'Samson' Leads First Runs
In Detroit With 200
DETROIT—Strong promotion for
"Samson
and Delilah" and "Battleground" proved that
the combination of a good picture and salesmanship
is bound to pay off at the boxoffice.
Adams—Battleground (MGM), plus stage bill 125
Cinema Germany Year Zero (Supertilm Dist.
Corp ) ^ 80
Downtown—Malaya (MGM), Riders in the SIcy
(Rep) _ 85
Tox—Dakota Lil (20th-Fox) 90
Madison—Samson and Delilah (Para) 200
Michigan—The Heiress (Para) _...120
Pclms-Stats^-Sands of Iwo Jima (Rep), 4th wk 100
Paradis^-Barbory Pirate (Col), plus stage show.-..130
United Artists—Thelma Jordon (Para); Rusty
Saves a Life (Col) ...100
"Foolish Heart' Scores 280
At Opening in Cleveland
CLEVELAND—Boxoffice grosses here were
off, with "My Foolish Heart" the only newcomer
to attract much attention. The picture
opened big at the Esquire, where it is booked
for an extended run, and hit 280 per cent.
"Tell It to the Judge" at the Allen chalked
up 105 per cent. "East Side, West Side," in
a moveover week at the Ohio, just made par.
"Battleground" held exceedingly strong in its
5th week at the Stillman.
Allen—Tell It to the ludge (Col) 105
Esquire—My Foolish Heart (RKO) .280
Hippodrome—The Hasty Heart (WB) _ _... 90
Lower Mall—The Fallen Idol (SRO), 5lh wk — . 60
Ohio—East Side. West Side (MGM), 2nd d. t. wk 100
Palace—The Killers (RKO); Brute Force (RKO)__ 65
S-ate—Mrs. Mike (UA) _. 80
Stillman—Battleground (MGM), 5th wk IIU
'Shoes' in Regular Run
CLEVELAND — "The Red Shoes," which
established an alltime 18-week record run at
the Esquire at $2.40 top under a reserved seat
policy, is booked into the same theatre for a
return engagement at popular prices following
the run of "My Foolish Heart," now playing
its third week.
For Heavy Role in 'Renegades'
Robert House Peters jr. will portray a
heavy in the Monogram western, "Border
Renegades."
MANAGER
10 Years Experience. Desires change.
Michigan preferred. Best of references.
Writ* Box 3747, BOXOFFICE,
825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City, Mo.
DRIVE-IN
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Combination Ramp IdHitification and Driveway
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DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. Kwafcity^M?.
92 BOXOFFICE :
4, 1950

SPRINGFIELD
ILfidwest premiere of Eagle Lion's "Guilty of
Treason" has been set up for the Regent-
State Corp. in Springfield and the Chakeres
circuit throughout southern Ohio and Kentucky.
Al Glaubinger of Cincinnati, Eagle
Lion manager, was here to arrange final details
. . . "Monsieur Vincent" has been booked
for a two-day run at the Majestic, says Manager
Woodrow Owens. He says a tiein has
been made with the Catholic Women's league
whereby the organization will sell tickets.
Manager Johnny Huffman of the Regent
got the film "Sands of Iwo Jima" off to a
good start when he arranged for the Springfield
high school marching band to perform
in front of the theatre opening night. Local
veterans of the marine corps also were featured
in the festivities . . . Woodrow Owens,
manager of the Majestic, promoted the film
"Abandoned" by placing a large bassinet.
complete with a life-sized doll, in the center
of his lobby prior to the opening date of the
picture. Printed on a sign on the display
was: "This baby was abandoned. Is it yours?"
Owens also placed newsboys on downtown
corners selling fake newspapers carrying the
banner "Baby Abandoned. For details see the
Majestic Theatre." In another promotion
stunt. Owens signed a group of Iroquois Indians
to appear on his stage for the showing
of "Geronimo."
Special miniature reviews were mailed to
residents in the city to help advertise "The
Red Shoes" at the Regent. The film was
shown at popular prices. This was the first
time it had appeared in the city . . . James
Dunn and his "Harvey" cast were well received
here at a one-night showing on the
stage of the Fairbanks.
Frank Collins, general manager of Chakeres
Theatres, announced that Wayne Frazee,
manager of the Chakeres Leeds at Winchester,
Ky.. received a $50 savings bond as
the prize for selling out his theatre for the
special New Year's eve show ... In a
Chakeres lobby display contest, three managers
tied for first place and each received
a $25 savings bond. They are Jim Hibbert
Theatfp Sign and Marquee Maintenance
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. . Ness
. . . Elmer
. . Jack
. . Mrs.
. .
CLEVELAND
jyjr. and Mrs. M. Belloni, who have turned
the management of their Brewster Theatre.
Brewster, over to their son Don. will
sail February 15 on a pilgrimage to Rome.
They will be abroad two months during
which they will travel extensively in Italy.
Switzerland. France. England and Ireland . . .
Harry Henderson is back in the territory.
The former Lorain-Fulton Theatre manager,
v>'ho managed a drive-in in Baltimore
last summer, has been appointed manager
of the Belmont, Youngstown. This Is one
of five Wellman houses recently acquired by
Associated circuit.
"Samson and Delilah" had a terrific opening
day at the Stillman. Advanced prices of
$1.19 top failed to keep patrons away from
the well advertised and exploited DeMille
epic . . . Although it was warmer in Cleveland
at 73 degrees than it was in Florida,
several local film moguls shifted to southern
resorts. The Sam Steckers left for Miami,
while the Myer Fines, all of Associated circuit,
were to depart soon.
J. S. Jossey, vice-president of Hallmark
Productions, has postponed his vacation trip
to Arizona for a week in order to clean up
some outstanding business . Auth.
manager of the Union Square Theatre, and
his wife are parents of a third daughter,
Linda, born at People's hospital. Akron.
Charlie Albert was here from San Antonio
where he owns a drive-in. Charlie, nephew
of Nat Wolf, was onetime Warner Theatres
booker here. He spent part of his vacation
MID-WEST THEATRE SUPPLY CO., Inc.
"EVERYTHING FOR THE THEATRE"
DRIVE-IN THEATRES OUR
SPECIALTY
1638 Central Parkway, Cincinnati 10, Ohio
trip in New York, where he visited Marty
Friedman, former WB booker. Marty now is
head of the Paramount playdate department
and lives in New York . Rachel
Spiegle. mother of Justin Spiegle. Lippert
Productions manager, died recently. Mrs.
Spiegle was 84.
Visitors on Filmrow included George Manos,
circuit owner from Toronto; Frank Slavik.
Mount Gilead and Wellington, and Ernie
Walters of North Baltimore and Sylvania .
"Jolson Sings Again." which recently closed
a successful 12-week run at the Esquire,
starts its way into the neighborhoods February
8 at Keith's East 105th Street and
breaks in the city February 26.
J. Knox Strachan, Warner Theatres publicity
director, was among those Invited to
attend the 20th-Fox showmanship meeting
in New York
Screen Service manager, and Irving Marcus,
salesmen, attended the three-day NSS convention
held at the Traymore hotel, Atlantic
City.
Word was received that Ray Wild, RKO
salesman, had- an automobile accident near
Salem while on his way home and is confined
in the Salem hospital, where the extent
of his injuries still is undetermined.
Art Goldsmith, another salesman, is laid
up with a bad ankle whicla has given him
trouble ever since he sprained it last summer
Dewitt, manager of Peter Mailers'
Strand and Valentine theatres in Defiance,
sold his home and is now building a new one.
Mr. and Mrs. Dave Shia of the Old Trail,
St. Clairsville. returned from a month's vacation
Don Young, son of
in Texas . . . Rufus Young of the Maumee. Maumee. and
his wife are studying plans for a ranch-type
house they will build in Perysburg . . . Mrs.
Nazera Zegiob. Lorain theatre owner, is recovered
sufficiently from a long illness to
give her theatres parttime attention. Her
son Elias is in charge of the circuit.
. . . Stuart Cangney of Independent
was in town
Poster Rental Co. reports that his
new organization has started servicing theatres.
A trip out in the territory proved
successful. Cangney reports. While in the
Toledo territory, he went to Port Clinton
to visit his mother.
Floyd Akins, president of the Detroit
Operators' Bowling league, was in Cleveland
to attend the dedication of the new Local
160 building on East 25th street . . Frank
.
DeNoU. Telenews projectionist, is back on
the job having recovered from a recent illness
Joe Lehman. Lower Mall projectionist,
. . . is another former hospital patient.
He also is back in the booth on fulltime
operation.
E. J. Stutz and Robert Snyder have received
phenomenal attendance figures for
the premiere engagement of their Grand
Opera week at Warners' 900-seat subsequent
run Columbia in Erie, Pa. Although the
house regularly plays late runs and is the
smallest of the downtown theatres. Grand
Opera Movie week played to an average of
over 2,000 patrons daily. Erie has a total
population of 100.000.
Kroger Babb, Hallmark president, now
pounds out effective publicity on a goldplated
typewriter, a Christmas present from
his Hallmark associates.
Al Sunshine has a new idea in Advanads
coming attraction displays, using fluorescent
paint and black light most effectively. It's
on display in his Film building offices.
Order your taxation trailers today I
Get your audience signing petitions now!
WE INVITE YOU
—
to look over both the Indoor artd Drive-In
theatres we currently have under construction.
VOGEL BUILDING COMPANY
Liberty Theatre Building
Wellsville, Ohio. Phone 74
7
GLO-ART
CHerry
7725
STANDARD and SPECIAL
ACCESSORIES ON ALL BOOKINGSA
INDEPENDENT POSTER RENTAL CO.
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METRO PREMIUM COMPANY
1705 E. 21 St. Film Bldg
CHerry 6138 Cleveland,
Variety Club held the first of a series of
Cabaret nights February 2. Entertainment
committee is scheduling them on a twoa-month
basis . O'Connell was the
busiest man in Toledo, putting on a tenround
exhibition fight in the arena in cooperation
with the Police Athletic league for
the benefit of underprivileged children. Abe
Ludacer. manager of the Valentine, also was
a prime mover in the event.
Rube Perlman, special representative for
SRO product released through Eagle Lion,
THOS. F.
WALSTON
Architect
THEATRES
AUDITORIUMS
— Phone 57 —
Gunnell Bldg., Catlettsburg, Ky.
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No rustle, no crackle, no pop.
1/2 lb. size @ $2.75 per 1,000,
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11/2 lb. size @ $3.90 per 1,000,
now available. Prices are in case lots
of 4,000. Smaller lots 20c per 1,000 more.
KERNEL PRUNTY SAYS:
Ask for my latest pricelist of Rush Hour.
Silver HuUess and Golden HuUess Popcorn.
Also list of 7 kinds popcorn cartons
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Food Serving Equipment.
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94
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

.^ Poll-All
: February
Iwo Jima' Hits 185
In Boston Opening
BOSTON — "Sands of Iwo Jima" at the Paiamoiint
and Fenway grossed the best total
of the week and set a new mark for the two
houses. "Wom«n in Hiding" at the Pilgrim
also was strong. Following three weeks of
personal appearances by Jane Russell, the
Boston returned to a straight picture policy.
Other spots were average or below.
(Average Is lOQ)
= stor—Prince of Foxes (20th-Fox), 5th wk. 85
Reacon Hill—Devil in Ihe Flesh (AFE). 4th wk. Sb
Soston—They Live by Nighl (RKO), The Threat
iRKO)
S5
i xeter Sl'eot— Tight Little Island (U-I); The Golden
Madonna (Mono), 5th wk 110
Memorial—Whirlpool (20thTox) 90
Metropolitan—Thelma Jordon (Para): Zamba (EL) 100
Paramount and Fenway-Sands of Iwo lima (Rep);
185
Belle oi Old Mexico (Rep)
Pilgrim—Woman in Hiding (U-I).- WoU Hunters
(Mono) 125
State and- Orpheum—Malaya (MGM); Prison
Warden (Col), 2nd wk 95
'Battleground' Still' Leads
New Haven Theatre Trade
NEW HAVEN—Trade at downtown first
runs was fairly brisk, "Battleground," showing
at the College in a second stanza, drew
standout business over the weekend and
chalked up 125 per cent, "All the King's Men"
registered slightly over average at the Loew
Poll and rated a moveover to the College
for a second round,
?i
,
J— Gypsy Wildcat (Realart); Salome, Where
:
She Danced (Reaiart), reissues 100
., ,-- Battleground (MGM), 2nd 125
: wk
L: the King's Men (Col): Girls'
School (Col) 100
Paramount—Abandoned (U-I), Free for All (U-I). .. 70
Roger Sherman—The Hasty Heart (WB); The Girl
in the Painting (U-I) 62
"Iwo Jima' Leads Hartford
Theatre Trade With 140
HARTFORD — Holdovers included "The
Hasty Heart" and "Ambush." The best grosser
was "Sands of Iwo Jima" at the Allyn.
.Mlyn—Sands of Iwo Jima (Rep), Belle of Old
Mexico (Rep)
140
E M Loew—The Nevadan (Col); Blondie'
Hero (Col)
Palace—Ambush (MGM); Challenge to Lassie
(MGM), 2nd wk
Poll—Whirlpool (ZOth-Fox); Fame Is the Spur
(Oxford)
Regal-The Hasty Heart (WB); Bomba on Panther
Island (Mono), 2nd wk
Strand—Montana (WB); Project X ((FC)
Drive-In License Probe
Asked by Councilmen
BOSTON—An investigation by Francis S,
Kelley, state attorney general, of circumstances
relating to the granting of drive-in
construction permits in West Roxbury and
Dorchester has been requested by two members
of the city council, both of whom declared
that the proposed theatres would create
serious traffic hazards. City officials
were informed in a recent ruling by William
Baxter, state corporation counsel, that they
have no legal authority to revoke or suspend
permits i.ssued by James M. Curley, former
mayor, on the last day of his administration
unless there is evidence to show that any
sucIt licenses have been improperly used.
Two Censorship Plans
Fought by Film Men
ATC Circuit Enters
Drive-In Operation
BOSTON—American Theatres Corp. has
leased four drive-ins, located in Saugus,
Weymouth. Shrewsbury and West Springfield,
from Drive-In Tlieatres Corp., oper-
by Bernard M. Lally of Dorchester but were
tabled for discussion by the succeeding session.
ated by Thomas Demarra and James Guarino,
Sam Pinanski, president, said American
Theatres would renovate and re-equip the
four airers, the first ATC outdoor situations,
for April 1 openings.
$60,000 Remodeling Job
Started at Providence
BOSTON—Ray Feeley, busine.ss manager
of Independent Exhibitors, Inc, of New England,
and Francis Lydon of Allied Theatres
appeared at the state house here to voice opposition
to two bills relating to censorship
which were under consideration by the committee
on state administration. The two
measures were introduced about a year ago
Bill 296 would provide for a censorship
commission to be compo.sed of the commissioner
of public safety, the police commissioner,
a priest, a rabbi and a Protestant minister,
the latter three to be appointed by the
governor. All members would serve terms of
three years each and without compensation
except for any necessary expenses. Comic
books and other publications offered for sale
PROVIDENCE—Tlie Liberty Theatre on
to minors, and motion pictures to which they
Broad street, one of the most popular neighborhood
houses in this area, is undergoing
would be admitted, would be covered by the
bill. The penalty for exhibition of a film not
a complete facelifting.
approved by the group would be a fine of
Thomas A. Cooper, manager, says $60,000
$5,000.
is being spent in the modernization program.
Under the terms of bill 297, the governor
Eight hundred and fifty maroon velveteen
would appoint a board of five motion picture
seats have been ordered from the Heywoodsupervisors,
each of whom would serve four
Wakefield Co,. Gardner, Mass. These are all
years without compensation except the chairman,
who would receive an annual salary of
for the orchestra floor. There is no mezzanine
or balcony in the Liberty.
$5,000, Should any group of five or more
The wooden front doors are being replaced
citizens make complaint relating to the exhibition
of a film deemed injurious to the
by chrome and the marquee is being repainted.
Interior decorations, which will include
elaborate murals on each side of the
public morals in any way, the supervisors
would be empowered to prohibit further .showings.
A fine of $5,000 or a sentence of not
stage and screen, are being handled by
Michael Carrier, Providence, Rugs will replace
linoleum on the lobby floors,
more than two years would be penalties for
violation.
Topps Electricians have replaced all oldfashioned
lights with fluorescent lighting.
Cooper expects the work to be completed by
the middle of February. The Liberty is owned
by Samuel Bomes, who also owns the Hollywood
in East Providence,
STRATFORD—The Man of the Year award
Man of Year Award Slated
by the Raymond T. Goldbach post Veterans
of Foreign Wars, Stratford, will be presented
Silent Screen Star Signed
Producer Sol Siegel has handed silent
screen star Mae Marsh a featured role in
the 20th-Fox picture, "My Blue Heaven."
to Albert M, Pickus, regional vice-president
of TOA and owner of the Stratford Theatre
on February 21.
Son to Rudy Frank
HARTFORD—Rudy Frank, formerly publicity
director of the State here, and now
promotion manager of station WELI, New
Haven, is father of a baby boy.
BOXOFFICE :
4, 1950
BOSTON' DELFG.ATION—DcleRation from the Boston exchange who attended the
U-I sales "sessions in New York, seated, l«ft to right: John J. Scully, district manager-
E M Feltman. branch manager; Henry Wolper, office manager; Judson Parker,
salesman. Standing: Robert Rand. Fred Shohet, Kenneth Mayer and Thomas Donaldson,
salesmen,
NE
35

. . Teresa
. . Harry
. .
BOSTON
pjarold Young, who operates a buying and
booking agency, drove to Lincoln. Me., to
meet with directors of the Lincoln Theatre,
for which he buys and books. He spent a day
with Frank LePage at Millinocket discussing
trade problems regarding his new Marilyn
Theatre at Van Buren . Cantlin
and her sister of the Concord Theatre. Concord.
N. H.. were in town booking . . . Aho
in town were George Vallee and his daughter
Alice. Strand Theatre. Winooski, Vt.. who
visited Al Fecke at Eagle Lion on their way
to Fall River to visit George Vallee. a merchant
there.
Four new independent theatre owners have
Affiliated Theatres Corp. now is buying and
booking for the Midway Theatre. Oakland
Beach, R. I., owned by Joe CaroUo . . .
John
Dervin. former XJA branch manager and now
connected with the Stratford Pictures Corp..
BANKNIGHT
FOR DRIVE-IN THEATRES
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We have a banknight plan worked out especially
for drive-in theatres.
This plan has proven to be tremendously
successful throughout the middle west.
Let us explain to you how it works and you will immediately
recognize its tremendous advertising possibilities.
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GOODWILL ADVERTISING CO.
22 CHURCH STREET BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS
Tel. Liberty 2-9305
spent two days here working on the Englishmade
film "Bond Street," now ready for release
in this area.
applied for membership in Independent Exhibitors
of New England, according to Ray RCA copper oxide rectifiers at the Plaza and
Capitol Theatre Supply recently installed
Feeley. business manager. They are Nathan Embassy theatres. Fall River; Union Square,
Trager. who is building a drive-in at the Pittsfield, and the Lynn Open Air, Lynn. New
Brockton Airport; Mrs. Ida lannotti. Columbia
Theatre, Providence; Joseph Santagata, stalled at the New Englan* Telephone &
stage draperies and equipment have been in-
Rainbow Theatre. Cranston. R. I., and Mrs. Telegraph assembly hall; New England Mutual
Life Insurance Co. hall; Bourne High
Helen Irwin. Palace Theatre. Penacook, N. H.
Their applications will be voted on at the school; New England Conservatory of Music
next monthly meeting.
Hall; Unitarian church. Wellesley; Dover
Women's club; Belmont High school; Wales
Grange. Sabittis. Me.; Abbot Academy. Andover;
Braintree High school, and South
Shore Catholic High school. Spotlights have
been added at the Victory. New London, Conn.,
and the Olympia, Woonsocket, R. I.; Brenkert
lamps at the Strand. Haverhill, and the
Taunton hospital; RCA sound equipment at
the Bijou, Springfield, and the Taunton hospital;
Mohawk carpets at the Bijou, Woonsocket,
R. I., and Brenkert projectors at the
Taunton hospital.
George S. Ryan, Boston lawyer, has gone to
Charlotte, N. C, to take depositions in the
action of Fred S. Curdt and his partners
against Greenville Enterprises, Inc., Wilby-
Kincey Service Corp. and the major distributors.
The majors are Paramount, Loew's,
20th-Fox, Warners RKO, United Artists, Universal
and Columbia. The action is based
upon an alleged conspiracy of all the defendants
and an alleged monopoly by Greenville
Enterprises and Wilby-Kincey. It is expected
that the work will be completed in about one
month. The action was brought in the U.S.
district court at Greenville, S. C.
Mrs. Katherine Avery, Anchor Theatre,
Kennebunk, Me., and the Gull Theatre, Winthrop.
Me., represented AtfiUated Theatres
at the preview of "Guilty of Treason" recently
at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City.
Mrs. Avery flew to the dinner and screening
and she was greatly impressed by the important
persons who attended the event .
Visitors in town included Mrs. Bill Sullivan.
Enfield Theatre, Enfield, N. H.. booking at
MGM; Lester Hughes, Nordica, Freeport.
Me.; Ray Kairn, MGM salesman from Albany;
Henry Sperling. Central Theatre. Manville.
R. I., and Irving Dunn, Granite Square,
Manchester, N. H.
The engagement of Shirley McMillan of
Newton, secretary to Marion Coles of New
England Theatres, to Robert J. Hodgson of
Buffalo, has been disclosed . . Lloyd Coen.
.
Maine salesman for Eagle Lion, experienced
engine trouble with his company-owned car
while selling in Houlton and had to fly back
to his Brighton home for the weekend. He
flew back to Houlton later to pick up the repaired
Tom Duane. local Selznick
car . . . manager, is happy these days due to the
returns from "The Fallen Idol" now playing
in small towns and suburban engagements in
the New England area.
Mrs. Jack Champlain, wife of the owner
of the Playhouse. Randolph. Vt.. has been
ill the last eight weeks. An operation may
be necessary .
Lamere of the Paramount.
Ludlow. Vt.. notified exchanges that
he will close the house Tuesdays and possibly
Wednesdays and Thursdays, due to the shutting
down of various small mills in Ludlow
and vicinity. Two mills at SangerviUe and
Dexter. Me., have been closed, without pros-
I Continued on next news page)
96
BOXOFFICE
:: February 4, 1950

'
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.
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FOR YOUR DRIVE-IN
THEATRE CONCESSION!
We really don't expect you to sell it ... no more
than you'd sell a gold mine. That's just what a
drive-in concession can be when you know how
to get the long-green out of the high pockets.
We operate a chain of our own drive-in theatre concessions.
We know how to extract the most profit
from every penny invested. We also sell a full line
of refreshment equipment and supplies to drive-ins
all over the country.
From all this experience . . . we've devised this plan
that's a tried and fool-proof honey for making money!
THE THEATRE CANDY "Driveteria" PLAN
uses less personnel!
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• Popcorn Machines • Popcorn Warmers • Snow Cone Machines 'Carmel Corn
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INC.
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BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 97

. . . Arthur
; February
BOSTON
(Continued from preceding news page)
pects of immediate reopenings. This will affect
business at the Community, Guilford, recently
taken over by Joe Cronan . . . Lillian
Couture, who has leased the Gem and the
Strand at Fitchburg to the Saxon circuit,
visited friends at the exchanges.
Harold Mason, house manager at the Beacon
Hill, resigned and was succeeded by
Stephen McConnolly. George Kraska, managing
director, said McConnolly had been
his assistant at the Kenmore and later had
managed several houses for the Richmond
Stern circuit. Kraska is working on a campaign
for "The Bicycle Thief," which will
-
open at the Beacon Hill February 17 following
a 12-week run of "Devil in the Flesh."
"Tlie Bicycle Thief" was screened at the
RKO screening room for the Italian consulgeneral
and prominent members of Italian-
American organizations here, all of whom
viewed the film with an eye to a huge benefit
premiere to be held on the evening of
February 16 to help needy families in Italy.
Jane Hutchins is the new secretary to
Ken Prickett, MGM publicist. One of her
first assignments was the arrangements for
the press luncheon at the Copley-Plaza hotel
for the French star, Denise Darcel, who is
featured in "Battleground." Mile. Darcel's
appearance featured the $100-a-plate dinner
for the March of Dimes at the Hotel Somerset.
A large group of exhibitors were at the
FRCE!! FReC!!
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and
POPCORN BOXES
IVfffi
your theatre name imprinted FREE
you order your corn and supplies from us.
.
. . wlien
Full line of specialty CANDY for DRIVE-IN
THEATRES, also
syrups.
drink machines, cups and
We supply free layouts for modern, fast-moving
service refreshment stands.
Call— write — or wire
CONCESSION ENTERPRISES, Inc.
96 Broadway
Boston, Mass. Tel. HAnock 6-2300
RKO screening room to view the first
showing
of Movie Quiz which Joseph Levine is
distributing in this area. The new contest
plan is owned jointly by J. J. Unger and Budd
Rogers of Realart Pictures. Unger, former
assistant general sales manager for Paramount
and later general sales manager for
United Artists, was present at the screening
to explain the workings of the game.
Two New Drive-ins Planned
For South Windsor, Conn.
HARTFORD—A Hartford suburb, theatreless
at present, will have two drive-ins in
operation by July. Plans have been revealed
by Richard C. Edwall, Agawam, Mass., for a
620-car drive-in on Route 5 in South Windsor.
Construction will start March 1.
Plans for another drive-in, also on Route
5, were announced by Philip C. Cahill of
Portland, Conn., who filed an application with
the state police commissioner.
Applications for rezoning part of the land
involved for each drive-in have been filed
with the South Windsor zoning board. At
present, the business zone extends back 200
feet from the highway at both locations.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Joan Frances Lynch of the Rialto staff in
Lancaster will wed Donald H. Peterson, also
of Lancaster, who is serving in the army
medical corps at Ft. Sam Houston in Texas
Rothafel has resigned as executive
program sales co-ordinator of CBS-TV
to become vice-president and general manager
of radio station WLNH in Laconia. His
father was the famous Roxy in New York
theatrical circles a generation ago . . . Ansel
Sanborn, owner of a Carroll county film
circuit and prominent legislator, observed a
birthday at his home in Wakefield.
Two recent labor reports caught the eyes
of the exhibitors, who watch the effects of
such trends on boxoffice receipts. The state
unemployment compensation office in Concord
reported that its reserve fund dropped
from $27,846,019 to $21,949,982 during the
past year, while in Manchester there was the
brighter news that industrial and other
employment showed a sharp increase during
the final quarter of 1949. The upswing was
nearly 16 per cent in the many plants occupying
the so-called Amoskeag Mill yards.
A special preview of "The Hasty Heart'
was staged at the Strand in Manchester on
the night of January 24 only at a top admission
of 65 cents. It was announced the
film would not be shown until later in Manchester.
Bill Crossett, a member of the contracting
firm which built Henry Gaudet's drivein
at the Weirs last summer, was one of the
first Laconians to receive his GI dividend
check . . . Carmen Urcouioli, manager of the
Scenic in Rochester, returned from a week's
vacation in Stroughton, Mass.
The Carter Community center in Lebanon,
one of the civic projects financed through
the regular local film shows, which have
been operated for years by a nonprofit corporation,
has elected Forrest B. Cole to serve
his 14th year as president. It was reported
that 40,000 persons used the building during
the past year.
98 BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1950

Man^SCOnES AGAIN!
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DRIVE-IN
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Manley introduces the perfect answer to the Popcorn
Machine requirements of Drive-In Theatres. Here is
a big capacity machine which can produce as much as
30 bushels of popped corn per hour. Every facility
for speedy, efficient operation has been combined in
this one big, beautiful unit. Here are some of the
features that will interest you. Heavy duty—high
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Warming oven to increase storage of hot, jresh, delicious
corn. Automatic seasoning well and pump.
Colored tubular illumination to give corn that freshly
buttered look. And, you'll want to know all the additional
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Write for the complete facts. Use the coupon below.
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merchond s ng counsel from one source.
SAM HORENSTEIN
MANLEY, inc.
Office and Showrooms
45 CHURCH STREET
BOSTON. MASS.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 99

. . . Bernie
. . The
. . The
. . Toni
. . The
. . George
FILMACK . . •
makes only^ thmj
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PROJECTION EQUIPMENT SERVICE CO.
11 Winchester St. Boston
FOR CAPACITY BUSINESS
use
HOSTESS
ALUMINUMWARE
"The year's most outstanding premium deal"
METRO PREMIUM COMPANY
47 Church St. Liberty 4088 Boston, Mass.
SERVICINQ THEATRES JRIVE INS
CANDY POP CORN -DRINKS
COMPLETE CONCESSION SUPPLIES
.
HARTFORD
IJl Schuman. general manager of Hartford
Theatres, and his wife returned from a
Mrs. Peter
Central American cruise . . .
Perakos. wife of the Perakos circuit head,
has been a patient at New Haven hospital
Levy and Lou Ginsburg of
Amalgamated Buying and Booking Service.
New Haven, were Hartford visitors . . Bernie
.
Menschell, partner in the Community Amusement
Corp., was a New York visitor . . .
Dimitri Petrou, formerly a partner in the
Community circuit, was said to be planning
to return to the theatre business in New
York soon.
The Darien Theatre Co. filed a certificate
of final dissolution with the secretary of
state in Hartford . Strand Amusement
Co.. downstate theatre circuit, has taken over
the Colonial in Bridgeport from Sam Hadelman.
lessee.
A hearing on the application of James A.
Holmes of Southington for authority to operate
a drive-in at Southington was held by
State Police Commissioner Edward J. Hickey
here last week.
The AUyn conducted two Monday afternoon
Angela Corver, State
cooking schools . . . cashier, is engaged to Ray Hamilton. Tlie
two were guests at a party given by State
.service staffers. The party also celebrated
the 27th wedding anniversary of Mrs. Frances
Gene Autry is
Hansen, State cashier . . .
booked into the State for two performances
Tlmrsday, February 16.
.'Viina Castonguay is the new cashier at the
An application was filed
Star Theatre . . .
with the state police commissioner for authority
to build a drive-in on Route 8 near Torrington
by Theodore Zoli of Torrlngton . . .
Dorothy
Nellie Valente is the new cashier at the
Webb Playhouse in Wethersfield, replacing
Helene Nowicki who resigned . . .
Webster . . .
Grillo is the new cashier at the
The Capitol in Waterbury has a new dish
deal.
Irene Moquin, former cashier at the Colonial,
AUyn and Princess, has been a patient
at St. Francis hospital. A WAVE during the
war, she was seriously injured while on duty
and was treated for paralysis during a long
hospital siege.
.
.
Ben Lamo, ailing theatreman, was a recent
John Mancini, Strand
Strand visitor . . .
chief of service, will be married February
15 to Irene Champ . Strand candy
stand staff is wearing new maroon and gold
uniforms Sapanaro is the new
Strand candy girl. She replaces Dorothy
Brignatti, who resigned Brooks,
Crown assistant manager, celebrated his seventh
wedding anniversary.
Frank Dazito is the new doorman at the
Crown . Crown interior has been redecorated
and new carpeting is to be installed
Suler Lane, retired Strand projectionist,
. . . wrote to local booth men from
Tampa, Fla.. reporting he had recently visited
Walter B. Lloyd, former Allyn manager
now city manager there for Florida State
Theatres.
SOCKO PARADE OZONERS CONTINUE n
* EFFICIENT DESIGN
Partial list of recent irtstallations
Milford
Milford,
Drive-ln
"Doubletalk" To Us, Yes!
But That's Your Business.
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Drive-In Theatre Concession Stands
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Connecticut
Mount Vernon Drive-ln
Alexandria, Virginia
Governor Ritchie Drive-ln
Glenburnie, Md.
Portland Drive-ln
Scarboro, Mc.
Lynn Open Air Theatre
Lynn, Mass.
and many others
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MORRIS GORDON &l SON. INC.
112 SUDBURY St. CAPITOL 7-5450 BOSTON, MASS.
Designers and Manufacturers of Food Service Equipment
100 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

: February
. . Vernon
J. L. Shanahan Promoted
To Loew's Home Office
BOSTON—James L. Shanahan of Brook-
1 ne, advertising and publicity director for
Loew's Theatres in this
area since September
1948, has been promoted
to the home office
advertising department
in New York,
according to Charles E.
Kurtzman, northeastern
division manager.
He will work under
Ernest E m e r 1 i n g .
A ^^m Loew's advertising and
...^riV 1v ^JKKm publicity director.
A graduate of North-
James L. Shanahan eastern university.
Shanahan began his career in the advertising
department of the Boston Globe and later
was with the Lawrence Advertising agency
He joined Loew's in 1947 as assistant to the
late Joe DiPesa and was promoted when the
latter died in August 1948. He will be succeeded
here by James M. Sullivan of Cambridge,
a Harvard graduate and formerly with
the Jordan March Co. advertising department.
Buy Parking Lot Site
HARTFORD—Peter Perakos, head of the
Eastwood Theatre Corp.. signed a lease on
property for an Eastwood Theatre parking
lot. He said work on the area would start
immediately at an estimated cost of $5,000.
with barriers, lights and an amesite surface
to be installed with space for 300 cars.
LYNN
flttondants at the Warner Theatre candy
counter were grateful one night recently
to a smiling girl who appeared to assist in
the sale of candy bars and other confections.
The girl was Beverly Beckman, IB, daughter
of Royce Beckman, manager. She has filled
in as cashier from time to time, and she
also has helped to sell refreshments.
Stanley and Arnold Levy, twin 11-year-old
sons of Samuel Levy, attracted the attention
of Gene Autry, cowboy film star, at a recent
rodeo in Boston. After learning that
the two youths were Boy Scouts. Autry po.sed
with them for photographs and gave them
autographs . Smythe, a local boy,
was a member of an honor guard shown
with Gen. Douglas MacArthur in a March
of Dimes short shown at the Capitol. Ed
Meyerson, manager, located the youth and
invited him and members of his family to
be guests at the theatre.
DRIVE-INS AND THEATRES
FOR SALE OR LEASE!
If Vo'j Want to Buy or Sell See Me first!
LEW BREYER
246 Sluarl St.. Boston HANcock 6-6424
DRIVE-IN
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SIGN MANUFACTURERS 7
BOXOFTICE :
4, 1950 101

. . Ralph
. .
. . Wilham
. . The
. . . Recent
. . Recent
NEW HAVEN
merly a three-change-a-week house, began a
first run seven-day policy February 2. Admission
will be slightly higher .
College
Theatre here is to have a new marquee
The 368-seat Princess at Rockville. which
on the Chapel street side.
Irving Conn, new manager at the Strand,
burned to the ground last September 8,
has been rebuilt by William Bassett and Dr. J. B. Fishman, head of the Fishman Portland, screened "Guilty of Treason" for
circuit,
Mary Elizabeth Knight and will be reopened
was recuperating from an operation
clergy and civic authorities at the Cinema.
soon . Civitello, former operator of
at New Haven hospital. Zelig Fishman, The
senior
picture will open February 8 at the Strand
the Devon Theatre, is manager of the Avon member of the firm, also was a patient
goodwill shows in Portland Included
a showing at the Strand for more
.
here and will be in charge of complete renovation
of the White Way. when that house convalescing after a seven-week than illness
Lou Phillips of the theatre supply house was
200 children from St. Elizabeth's school,
. . .
closes about May 1 for several months Bernard Scholz of RCA was here St.
.
from Louis New
Home for Boys. Opportunity farm
Raymond Joyce, one of the earliest exhibitors York
. Hutchins, manager and
of
the Maine Home for Boys. Transportation
in the state, notified the exchanges that he National Theatre Supply here, returned from
was provided and a bicycle awarded.
has sold the 460-seat Eno Memorial in Simsbury.
Joyce is principal of the Morse Busi-
Loew's Poll publicity chief, was in New York Co. carrier boys were guests at a showing of
a west coast sales meeting . . . Lou Brown, At the State, 400 Guy Gannett Publishing
ness college in Hartford and treasurer of the for a 20th-Fox conference.
"My Friend Irma." National Kids day was
Frozen Food Corp. in Simsbury.
Walt Silverman, Columbia branch manager,
observed with a show for 2.000 needy children,
project of the Portland Kiwanis club
Henry Tobin of New
moved into his
Bedford, operator
new home at Short
Beach
. . . Bill
with Louis Jeffe of the Empire in New London,
and booker for the house, has entered
Vuono of Vuono Theatres, cooperating with Manager Ralph TuUy and
Stamford, will go to Miami February 10 to staff. Other promotions, in addition to midnight
shows, included lucky tickets for tur-
join his
television production in Boston . . . The
mother and
ne^v
brother who are vacationing
there . . .
Niantic Theatre may be opened before March
Jack Shields, manager of keys, conducted successfully by Manager Lawrence
Capillo at the Maine and the 20th Cen-
the Capitol in
1 . . . Warners' Circle in Manchester,
Ansonia.
for-
was improving after
a long ilness . . . Jerry Massimino. former tury market.
shipper at Metro, now is operating a West
Haven spa.
The State has had its marquee completely
redone and has inaugurated a new weekly
The Rialto, South Norwalk, and the Capitol.
Danbury, have started new china give-
Komedy hour at 10 a. m. Saturday . . . The
feature for children, the Kiddies Kartoon and
away deals . . . "The Red Shoes" opened at
regular prices January 25 at the Palace, Norwich,
and February 1 at the Regal. Hartford.
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It was to open February 8 at the Roger Sherman
here, February 14 at the Empress in
South Norwalk, February 15 at the Merritt
and Warner in Bridgeport, and February 25
at the State in Waterbury.
SPRINGFIELD
lyjarked by a preshowing: campaign featuring
everything from a flash of sand from
Iwo Jima to a marine honor guard for Mayor
Daniel B. Brunton. "Sands of Iwo Jima"
opened here on a high tide of enthusiasm
and virtually SRO business. Donor of the
sand was chief warrant officer Alphonse
W. Gallo. then attached to the Eighth naval
construction battalion, and who served on
Iwo Jima for eight months. The sand, collected
from all parts of the island, was
placed in a specially designed flask and given
to Paramount Manager Edward A.
Smith by
Gallo. Smith in turn presented sand to Capt.
Herbert E. Ing of the Springfield marine
reserve, who was wounded in the Iwo Jima
campaign. Nearly 100 members of the Springfield
marine reserve marched down Main
street behind a bagpipe band, to be reviewed
by the mayor and police officials, before attending
a showing of the picture.
An advance sale of virtually unprecedented
proportions is paving the way for the
appearance of Gene Autry and his company
of radio and screen performers at the Auditorium
here, matinee and evening, February
17. The Auditorium was chosen because the
3.000-seat house is the only one available
here equipped to handle the expected crowds.
William Landen, executive secretary of the
Playgoers of Springfield, is sponsoring the
appearance.
MAINE
Civic Theatre has a new lobby with glass door
entrance on Preble street. It premiered
"Sands of Iwo Jima." with Sgt. Terrell B.
Yancey and Sgt. Willard B. Bush, veterans
of Iwo Jima attached to the local recruiting
station, as guests of honor.
John Divney, manager of the Star, Westbrook,
entertained 82 sisters and priests from
Westbrook and Portland at the picture, "Come
to the Stable." Martha Logan, home economist
for Swift & Co.. conducted cooking
schools at the Star in December.
Ralph E. Snider, president and treasurer
of the Maine Theatre Corp. and operator of
the Strand. Empire. Cinema and Cape theatres
in greater Portland, has been elected to
the board of directors of the Variety Club of
New England . stars visiting Maine
included Mark Stevens, who visited the Veterans
Administration center at Togus, and
Eddie Cantor, who performed at the University
of Maine, with proceeds going to the
Goodwill chest drive, a campus campaign.
The Portland Drive-In, Scarborough, plans
to open in April ... A new theatre is planned
at Old Town, Me., with a minimum seating
capacity of 1.200, according to Sidney Epstein,
Bangor, Graphic Theatre, circuit. The steel
and brick construction will be air conditioned,
have a fire sprinkler system and ample parking
lot.
Local 182 to Celebrate
Its 40th Anniversary
BOSTON—In commemoration of the Ruby
Jubilee, projectionists Local 182 will hold a
huge banquet in the Grand ballroom of the
Copley-Plaza hotel April 24. The union was
chartered 40 years ago, April 20. 1910. Pi-esident
Joseph Nuzzolo has named Joseph Cifre
general chairman with Walter Diehl and himself
as co-chairmen. A large committee of 40
members has been selected to work on the
Big word-of-mouth support is expected for
"Guilty of Treason." as the result of a preview
at the Warner Capitol hosted by Manager
affair.
Chairmen include Leon Narbut, program;
Ande Sette. Doctors, lawyers. Mayor Harold Katz. reception; Joseph Caplan, tick-
Brunton, police officials and clergy of all ets; Bernard Lynch, reservations and decorations;
faiths were on hand for the picture which
Harold Armistead, hotels, and Morris
has as its true-life parallel the trial of Cardinal
Goldman and Harold Armistead, lighting and
Mindszenty.
journal.
102 BOXOFFICE ;: February 4, 1950

Theatre Bids Asked
By Foster & Son
FORT WORTH — Bids will be opened
Wednesday (8) for construction of the new
Westcliff Theatre, slated for erection in the
new Westcliff addition here by the section's
developers, J. E. Foster & Son. The theatre,
costing about $250,000 with equipment, will
be built of marble, stone and face brick. It
will be of stadium type and will seat 1.000
persons.
The theatre, facing south, will be located on
the north end of the Westcliff Shopping center
block. There will be retail stores on
either side of the theatre. The house, to be
completed this summer, will be operated by
Bill Boren, TCU graduate who recently sold
his theatre in Longview.
Features of the Westcliff will be a cry
room, indirect lighting, mirrored lobby walls
and lobby seats for waiting patrons. Joseph
H. Gaylord is architect for the house.
Olmos at San Antonio
To Open February 15
SAN ANTONIO—The new Olmos Theatre,
built at 4205 San Pedro Ave. here by John C.
Carson and Louis Santikos, will be opened
February 15, according to the owners. The
new $150,000 house will seat 800 persons and
parking facilities will be provided for several
hundred automobiles.
Rebuilding Plans Complete
FOREST CITY, TEX.—Plans for rebuilding
of the fire -destroyed Forest Theatre have
been completed by co-owners Mrs. Nettie
Brown and the Central States Theatre Corp.
A contractor has been selected and the three
remaining walls will be torn down immediately
so that rebuilding may be started.
Build Pampa Drive-In
PAMPA. TEX.—Paul West, manager of the
Pampa theatres, said recently that this city
soon will get its second drive-in. a 400-car
operation. Construction began in January.
Blaze in Yandell Booth
EX PASO. TEX.—Fire occurred in the projection
booth of the Yandell Theatre here
recently, causing an unestimated amount of
damage.
Shopping Center Under Way
HOUSTON, TEX.—The first units of the
shopping center to be located at Sheldon
and Market Street road are now under construction.
The center, to include ten stores,
two apartments and a theatre, will cost approximately
$400,000. The initial buildings
are scheduled to be completed by March 1,
at which time work will begin on the theatre,
apartment houses and six store spaces.
Paris, Tex., Ozoner Closed
PARIS. TEX —The 271 Drive-In has closed
for the season for major repairs and renovation.
It is expected to reopen late In
February or early March. Owners Henry,
Elmer and Wesley Bell opened the drive-in
for the 1949 season on February 24. Major
work to be done Is reconditioning of in-car
speakers.
Bruce Royal Will Manage
New Marlin, Tex„ Ozoner
MARLIN, TEX.—Bruce Royal, a partner
in the firm which is building the new drivein
here and manager of the Interstate circuit
Majestic in Abilene for the last seven
years, will manage the new drive-in here
upon its opening the first week of March.
The drive-in, of 350-car capacity, is being
built by E. L. Williamson & Associates of
Abilene.
Gala opening ceremonies are planned and
will include a huge fireworks display. Royal
will arrive here February 12 to take up permanent
residence.
Tower, booth, concessions stand and
lounges at the drive-in, which will be named
the Royal, have been completed. Construction
of ramps and installation of equipment
will be carried out soon. The grounds will
be landscaped. Contractor for the drive-in
is Tom Griffin.
Three Managerial Shifts
Made by Williams Chain
BROKEN BOW, OKLA.—Three new managerial
changes have been made by K. Lee
Williams Theatres.
L. R. Junell. former manager of the Arrow
and Tower theatres here, was appointed manager
of Sevier and Queen, the circuit's De-
Queen. Ark., theatres.
Succeeding Junell as manager of the Arrow
and Tower is Reeves Addington, recently
manager of the Williams Theatre in
Ashdown, Ark.
Addington will be replaced by George
Frazier. who previously managed the Hooks,
Tex., theatre.
Burglars Unsuccessful
In Breaking Open Safe
VICTORIA, TEX.—Burglars gained entrance
to the Goliad Theatre here recently
and tried to crack a safe in the office, but
were unsuccessful, according to theatre
owner Rubin Fieis. The burglars gained entrance
by jerking open an insecure front
door. Unable to get the safe open after
smashing off the knob, the burglars then
pried open a rear door and took a cutting
torch from an adjacent garage. They
were never able to get the torch in operation
and the job finally was given up as a failure.
P. A. Warner a Colonel
DALLAS—P. A. "Bob" Warner of Manley,
Inc.. has been appointed a colonel on the
staff of James E. Berry, governor of Oklahoma.
A 14xl8-inch certificate bearing the
state seal of Oklahoma, in a gold frame, has
been hung in Warner's office here.
Winton Davis to Waelder
WAELDEIR, TEX.—Winton Davis, formerly
of the Lynn Theatre in Gonzales, has taken
over management of the Wael-Tex Theatre
here. Lynn Smith jr.. former manager, has
returned to Gonzales.
Have yon ordered your taxation trailer and
petition cards from National Screen Service?
Do it today.
Jack Farr Seeks Cut
In A&M Admissions
BRYAN, TEX.—Jack A. Farr, manager and
owner of the Skyway Drive-In near the campus
of Texas A&M college, recently ran a
two-column, 12-inch ad in the A&M campus
publication urging removal of the commercial
angle in motion picture showings at Guion
Hall on the A&M campus. The ad, headed
"An open letter to students and others concerned
in the operation of Guion Hall as a
movie theatre," caused much comment among
theatremen who are concerned over the operation
of motion picture theatres on the
campuses of state-supported colleges and universities.
Farr's ad emphasized that Guion Hall was
located on the campus to furnish relaxation
and entertainment to the students.
"Under the present operating conditions of
this theatre, it is operated on a commercial
basis with a regular picture policy and admission
prices.
"This theatre," he continued, "has a low
operating cost, utilities, building, maintenance,
etc., furnished by the state of Texas.
Only the manager's salary, operator's salary
and a few incidentals come out of the profit
from the theatre operation and concession
business.
"Most of the films for the theatre are
bought on a percentage basis, ranging from
25 to 35 per cent. A few little pictures are
bought through a rental of $12.50 to $50. Short
subjects cost $2 to $5. These prices are for
the number of days the picture runs—one,
two or three.
"There is no reason why the theatre could
not operate for students for a low admission
of 10 cents, and at the end of every week
show a profit of more money than under the
present policy of operation, and at the same
time afford every student a great saving in
his theatre admission, and afford more students
this type of entertainment than now
are attending the shows on account of the
high admission price.
"The film companies would continue to
serve Guion Hall under the same terms they
now are serving them, and the students would
continue to see the .same type of films they
now are seeing. At the same time, they
would be eliminating the commercial angle
under which Guion Hall now is operating."
J. D. Lynch New Manager
Of Capitol at Angleton
ANGLETON. TEX.— J. D. Lynch, formerly
of Longview and Memphis, has taken over
management of the Capitol Theatre at West
Columbia. Lynch succeeds G. Montgomery
who has been transferred to Carrlso Springs
to take over the Long Theatre management
there.
Enlarge Star Theatre
ORANGE GROVE. TEX.—Enlargement of
the Star Theatre here has been completed
by T. L. Harville, owner. The building was
lengthened 30 feet to enable addition of about
66 seats and for installation of three fiveton
air conditioning units. A new .screen
and projection equipment also were installed.
Ernest K. Gann and Seton I. MUler will
screenplay the former's novel, "Island in the
Sky." for United Artists' release.
BOXOFnCE : : February 4, 1950 sw ia3

. . Frank
. . The
DALLAS
JJn Harrington and associates will construct
a drive-in in the North Port Worth area.
Jack Corgan, Dallas, architect, will have
charge of the project . . . Jimmie AUard,
manager of the Palace, and his staff received
a prize from 20th-Pox for publicity
on "Father Was a Fullback" .
Starz
of Interstate was still confined to his home
with a heart ailment.
Jack Bryant reports that the Variety Club's
building project at Boys Ranch is almost
complete. The gymnasium building will be
George Bannon,
completed about March 1 . . .
Warner publicity man, returned after
a month in the northwest states . , . Seen
at the Variety Club: Mr. and Mrs. George
Likens of Abeline, G. H. Dewitt of Houston,
Johnny Long of the Long circuit, Mark Leveridge
of Victoria and P. V. Williams of
Munday.
Elton Houck, manager of the Joy Houck
Theatres in Dallas, reported he has purchased
a ten-ton cooling unit for the Strand
Theatre. A new cooling plant was installed
in the Leo, another Houck theatre. The
Strand originally was named the Hippo-
Westerns-Features-Serials
Tower Pictures Co.
HAHOLD SCHWARZ
302 S. Harwood SI. Dallas 1, Texaa
Phones C-7357 and B-3998
drome. The Leo, the old Queen, was opened
in 1910.
Seen on Filmrow: Mr. and Mrs. R. T. Hall.
Ballinger; Hiram Parks, Lubbock; Harold
Schwarz, Tower Pictures, lunching with exhibitor
friends in Filmrow cafe: Truman
Hendrix, for many years with Paramount,
now sales manager for Tower Pictures; Lou
Wade, booker for Republic, rushing to the
bowling alley for a workout; Lloyd Rust,
who disposed of his theatre interests in Oak
Cliff.
Seven Interstate suburban houses celebrated
Hopalong Cassidy day last Saturday
(281 with programs which included features
starring the popular western character, comedies
and cartoons . . . Showings of "Dona
Barbara." Spanish film starring Maria Felix,
were sponsored by the Civic Federation two
nights at Scott hall . . . "Vautrin the Thief"
and "The Wicked Duchess," two French films,
will open February 21 for a three-day run
at the Coronet Theatre.
A 450-car drive-in will be built by Hans
Smith and W. P. Gandy on a six-acre tract
one mile north of Irving on Route 183. Smith,
who is mayor of Irving, will be in charge of
The famous Sadler's Wells
the project . . .
ballet of London has been booked for appearances
here next October
King's Men," winner
. . . "All the
of the New York film
critics award as the best picture of the year,
was playing at the Palace Theatre.
"Contra La Ley de Dios" and "Pecadora,"
Mexican films, were being shown at the
Panamericano Theatre . Dallas Little
Theatre production of "Rain" was to open
"Knky" was the attraction
February 9 . . .
at the Majestic . . . "Battleground" went
into a second week at the Melba . . The
.
downtown Palace featured a Saturday kiddy
show produced with the cooperation of radio
station WRR.
Skinnay Ennis and his orchestra, formerly
featured with Bob Hope in his weekly radio
program, played a one-night
engagement at
the Showland club . . . Return showings of
"Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" were
being sponsored by the Junior Chamber of
Commerce at the Fair Park auditorium . . .
Two W. C. Fields reissues. "Poppy" and
"Million Dollar Legs," were on the screen at
the Dallas Theatre.
Hiram Parks is in his new office at 323
Lubbock National Bank building in Lubbock
. . . W. W. Spruce, office manager for
MGM for ten years who has been confined
to his home for the last year, is back on
the job . . . R. T. Hall and wife of the
Horseshoe Drive-In, Ballinger, were on the
Row.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Darden returned from
a combination business and pleasure trip to
Beaumont.
Third Anniversary Show
GEORGE WEST, TEX.—The West Theatre
here held a special free show in celebration
of its third anniversary. Features
of the show included a cowboy trio, a tenpiece
teen-age orchestra and local talent,
along with a film and comedy.
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104 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

. . After
. . An
"
. .
Film Advisory Board
Marks Anniversary
SAN ANTONIO—The Motion Picture Advisory
and Reviewing board observed its first
anniversary with a luncheon at the St. Anthony
hotel here. Mrs. Harold Gee. president
of the board, reported on the accomplishments
of the organization.
Sole purposes of the board, said Mrs. Gee,
are to study the motion picture with an
eye to its best use for social, ethical and
cultural values and to recommend outstanding
productions. She stressed that the board
is not a censorship organization, but "vi'hoUy
and truly a cooperative advisory group."
Among its achievements for the year. Mrs.
Gee said, is a special junior rate for young
people for suitable pictures at a number of
theatres. She also reported that a survey
showed 90 per cent of the members of parent-teacher
organizations favor special Saturday
afternoon matinees for children.
HOUSTON
pat O'Brien will be king of the St. Thomas
university Mardi Gras ball and Ann Blyth
will be queen of the affair February 17 in
Sam Houston coliseum . a strong
second-week holdover "Sands of Iwo Jima"
faced the prospects of going into a third
stanza at the Kirby ... St. Michael's Episcopal
mission is holding services at the Garden
Oaks Theatre.
A series of films, borrowed from the Museum
of Modern Art film library in New York,
will be shown at the Houston Contemporary
Art museum. 302 Dallas street, beginning
February 27. Opening the series will be
"What Is Modern Art?" and "Potemkin" .
River Oaks is showing a pair of oldies, "Back
Street" and "Scarlet Street."
.
"The Atom Strikes" W'as the top attraction
at a recent meeting of marine corps reserve
training unit 17 . . . Eddie Bracken and Dorothy
Bracken entertained at the Shamrock
hotel two days . . . Holt's sporting goods store
has opened a special darkened alcove for
16mm film projection usher at the
Majestic, after seeing "Sands of Iwo Jima.
quit his job and enlisted in the marine corps.
The Uptown Theatre presented a five-act
vaudeville .show and "Hold That Ghost" . . .
The Joy uncorked a sensational double feature
last Saturday midnight. "Probation" and
"Girls of the Underworld" ... "A Song to
Remember" put in its first return .showing at
the Delman ... At the Majestic "Pinky" is
doing healthy business . . . "Hellfire" and
"Brimstone" are playing the suburbans.
The Southwestern Theatre Equipment Co.
has let a $74,866 contract for the construction
of a two-story building at Pease and
Austin streets here. The 50xlOO-foot structure
will be of reinforced concrete frame construction
with brick, tile and stone exterior
walls. Earl R. Gilbert is the architect.
Signed for Scrivening Chores
Harold Greene has been inked for the
scrivening chores on Columbia's "Isle of
Samoa" and "David Harding's Secret Mission."
May Opening Is Planned
FREDERICK, OKLA,— Calvin Council, local
manager for Video 'Independent Theatres,
Inc., says the new drive-in being built north
of the city will be ready for opening about
May 1. Fabrication of the screen shelter has
been completed and the sheet iron covering
now is in finishing stages. Video also has
a drive-in under construction at Blackwell.
Horses in Stage Show
HARLINGEN. TEX. — Ed Staib's Miracle
Hor.ses played a three-night stand at the
Valley Drive-In between shows.
RALPH WARNER
17 North Shartel St.
OKLAHOMA CITY . . . OKL
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BOXOFFICE :: February 4. 1950 105

AT TEXAS CELEBRATION—John Carroll, film star, and J. G. Long, Long circuit
executive, and Glen McCarthy, oil man and owner of the Shamrock hotel in
Houston, were special guests at the recent Border Centennial exposition at Eagle
Pass, Tex. In the accompanying picture, Francis Davis, representing the Eagle Pass
Chamber of Commerce, is shown tying a "'49er" necktie on McCarthy.
Fire at El Paso Yandell
EL PASO—Fire in the projection room of
the Yandell Theatre recently destroyed a
quantity of films, according to C. M. Garrett,
theatre manager. Patrons left the theatre
quietly when the fire was discovered. Flames
were caused by defective wiring in an electric
heater.
To Install New Speakers
COLEMAN, TEX.—The Oak Drive-In here
has been closed for about five weeks for
installation of a new 350-car in-car speaker
system, according to Manager Roland Duns.
Grounds of the theatre are being extended
and new ramps are being built. The drivein
first opened in May 1948.
Building
Continues
Despite Bad Weather
HONEY GROVE, TEX.—Work is
That always
Good Imperial (The
King of all Hybrid) pop-
progressing
rapidly on the new State Theatre building
under construction here, despite adverse
weather conditions which have prevailed
almost since the start of work. Concrete
foundations have been laid and brick walls
are going up.
The theatre building wiU measure 50x100
feet and will have a plate glass front. It will
have a seating capacity of 641 in the auditorium
and 150 in the balcony. James L.
Chance of Maud, Tex., is contractor on the
Job.
Apprehend Waco Youths
After Looting Candy Bar
WACO, TEX.—Two boys, 12 and 13 years
old. was apprehended by detectives here after
they fled from the Circle Drive-In where
an employe surprised them in the act of looting
the concessions stand of candy, cigarets
and cigars. The detectives found the youths
hiding in a pump house a mile and a half
from the theatre. They had run across the
fields, but were seen by passersby who told
the officers where to find the youths. Most
of the loot was recovered.
Mexican-Film Exhibitors
Visit San Antonio Row
SAN ANTONIO—There was many out-oftown
visitors here last week to book Mexican
product. Among those who called at Clasa-
Mohme and Azteca exchanges were Pedro
Carrasco, Big Wells; Tom Parker, Tent Show,
Saspanco: Mr. Pince, Lyric. Ansco; Eddie
Reyna, Uptown, Victoria, who was with Mr.
Garza, manager of the drive-in there; Tobe
Howze, Rio, Brownfield; C. J. White, Princess,
Sanderson; John Flache, Alameda, Lamesa,
and Senor Ramirin, the radio comedian
on KIWW here who also is showing 16mm
films at Kerrville.
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Build Alvin Theatre
ALVIN, TEX.—Roy Lambden and M. A.
Matlock are building the Tex Theatre here.
They expect the 500-seat theatre to be ready
for an April opening.
Showman Aids High School
BORGER, TEX.—Johnny Fagan, manager
of the Bunavista Drive-In, is helping the high
school raise money by giving 25 per cent of
proceeds from theatre ticket book sales.
J. T. BOUTWELL INSTALLATION COMPANY
Contractor ol Theatre, School
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For information, write
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SPEAKER RE-CONEING
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4" 1.25 4x6" 1.35
5" 1.35 6x9" 1.40
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729 Baltinere
Kansu City, B*.
106 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

: February
. . The
. .
. . . "The
. . Benito
Marines at San Antonio
Attend 'Jima' Showing
SAN ANTONIO—Maj. William Wood, marine
corps hero who commanded the troops
which raised the American flag on Mt. Suribachi
came to San Antonio recently and was
reunited with seven other veterans of the
Two Jima campaign at the Majestic Theatre.
They took part in the ceremonies in
connection with the showing of "Sands of
Iwo Jima."
Approximately 150 members of the marine
reserve unit here and their families were
guests at the showing of the picture. Reserve
unit commander Ralph Garza was
master of ceremonies.
Oelman Robbed of $250
HOUSTON, TEX. — The Delman Theatre
was robbed of $250 recently when a man
wallced up to the ticket window about 8:40
demanding the cashier in the ticket booth
give him the money drawer. The cashier,
Katherine Trippe, first believed it to be a
practical joke as the man held his hand in
the pocket of his jacket. Police captured the
bandit several days later.
Interstate Gives $15,000
EL PASO, TEX.—Interstate Theatres,
operator of six local theatres, has contributed
an additional $5,000 to the building fund of
Providence Memorial hospital. Sam D. Young,
vice-president of the board, said this makes
a total of $15,000 pledged by Interstate for
the institution.
Poll on Matinee Shows
ROSCOE TEX.—Dewey Wilson, owner of
the Joy, is conducting a poll of his patrons
to decide whether to continue Saturday matinees.
Install Air Conditioning
MINEOLA. TEX.—A 50-ton General Electric
refrigerating unit is being installed in
the Select Theatre here. It will be the only
theatre in Wood county to be cooled by refrigeration.
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"
RESEARCH BUREAU
for
MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS
ENROLLMENT FORM FOR THE INFORMATION
The MODERN THEATRE
PLANNING INSTITUTE
825 Van Brunt Blvd.
Kansas City 1, Mo.
Gentlemen:
Please enroll us in your RESEARCH BUREAU
to receive information regularly, as released, on
the following subjects for Theatre Planning:
n Acoustics
Lighting Fixtures
D Air Conditioning
,-, piu^ibing Fixtures
n Architectural Service „ _ .
ij Projectors
D "Black" Lighting
D Building Material
°
Projection Lan.ps
D Carpets
° 2^°*'"^
D Coin Machines ^ Signs and Marquees
D Complete Remodeling Sound Equipment
n Decorating H Television
n Drink Dispensers D Theatre Fronts
D Drive-In Equipment Vending Equipment
n Other Subjects
Drama Critic Glad to See
Continuance of Shorts
From Nev/ England Edition
HARTFORD—"The filmmakers, It's
good to
see, have come to the conclusion that it isn't
wise to cut down on short subjects after all,"
Charles Niles, drama critic, Hartford Times,
notes in a column. "A year or so ago, it was
announced that the httle films which rounded
out the usual program at the theatre would
be sharply curtailed."
"But, according to the latest news, television
has made people short-subject conscious
and they're looking for them at their
favorite movie theatre. With the double featui-e
bills that the majority of moviegoers
force the theatres to run, there isn't much
room for a short film in the day's screening.
"Nevertheless, we still maintain the hope
that some day. the theatres will simultaneously
take up the single feature bill, with
room for a couple of good short subjects.
The managers would seize the idea immediately,
if they thought the moviegoers would
stay with them.
"Another of our fond dreams is that the
moviemakers some day will quit trying to
stretch a 30-minute story into an hour-long
picture. There's nothing wrong with keeping
a short story short, and maybe putting another
short story with it. The idea has been
carried out successfully in 'Quartet.'
Hal Roach Sr. Produces
TV Subject in Color
From Weslem Edition
H0LL"5rW00D—Hal Roach sr., who some
time ago abandoned his theatrical film producing
activities in favor of video and commercial
film production, has turned out a 40-
minute subject in Anscocolor for the Union
Oil Co., which that firm will utilize as part
of an entertainment package celebrating its
60th anniversary. Produced for Roach by
Sidney Van Keuren and directed by Harve
Foster, the film will be presented, in conjunction
with a stage revue, for the edification
of union personnel in 33 cities, including Los
Angeles, San Fi'ancisco, Seattle and Phoenix,
beginning February 25.
DAV Short Is Screened
HAMLIN. TEX.—Patrons of the Ferguson
Theatre here were given a free showing of the
Disabled American Veterans short, "How
Much Do You Owe?"
'Your Keniucky' Short
Bows at Frankfort
From Mideast Edition
FRANKFORT, KY.—A new short film,
"Your Kentucky," made under the sponsorship
of the Kentucky Ass'n of Theatre Owners
to promote the state, made its first official
bow at the Capitol Theatre here recently
before state officials.
The film, wnicn was produced by Cascade
Film Corp. of Hollywood at a cost of $30,000,
will be shown at all possible theatres throughout
the state, after which it will run in other
states, then be made available in 16mm for
presentation before civic groups, clubs, schools
and others interested in the film.
The film fits in with the statewide plans
for the Kentucky Homecoming of 1950 movement,
an effort to bring native Kentuckians
back to the state to observe its progress in the
last few years. Covered in the film are
scenes from Churchill Downs, home of the
Kentucky Derby, Keeneland and Dade Park,
Mammoth cave. Old Fort Harrod, memorials
to Jefferson Davis and Abraham Lincoln,
the state's rivers, mountains, lakes, bluegrass
homes, stock farms and industries.
On hand for the official debut of the film
were Gov. Earle C. Clements, Lieut.-Gov.
Lawrence Wetherby, the governor's cabinet
members, heads of state departments, members
of the house of representatives, members
of the senate, Guthrie F. Crowe, president
of the KATO, members of the organization
and other exhibitors and members of the
press.
The picture was well received and widely
applauded. The KATO sponsored a reception
in the Bluegrass room of the Capitol
hotel following the showing.
The picture ran an additional five days at
the Capitol along with the regularly scheduled
features. The Capitol is owned by
Chakeres Theatres, Springfield, Ohio, and is
managed by Gene Lutes.
Order Curfew Enforced
From Central Edition
BRIDGEPORT, ILL.—Police Chief Claude
Gray has ordered strict enforcement of a
9:30 p. m. curfew, at which time all yoimgsters
of 16 years and mider must be off the
streets imless accompanied by parents or
guardians. He is invoking the curfew to
combat juvenile crime which has increased
markedly in recent weeks.
Theatre
Seating Capacity.
Address
City
State
Signed. ,.
Postage-paid reply cards for your further convenience
in obtaining information ore provided in The MODERN
THEATRE RED KEY SECTION (Nov. 19, 1949).
mOTIOnPICTORE SERVICE Co.
'ilSWYDE ST.
^ GERAIDI.KARSKI
AMERICAN DESK
MANUFACTURING CDMPANY
Manufacturers of Theatre Seating
Mr. W. H. Mattingly. 2011 1/2 lackson St.
Dallas. Texas Ph., Prospect 71398
Cuero Drive-In to Open
CUERO. TEX.—The new Cuero Drive-In,
built here at a cost of $35,000 by Video Independent
Theatres. Inc., was slated for immediate
opening by Manager John Monroe.
The drive-in is located on Yoakum highway
and construction was completed recently.
Interstate Books 'Kid'
SAN ANTONIO—Interstate circuit has
booked "The Kid From Texas" for showing
here February 9.
Big Spring Drive-In Closes
BIG SPRING. TEX—The Terrace Drive-
In has closed for the winter, according to
J. C. West, owner-operator.
108
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

: February
. .
. . Judy
Georgia Theatres Assist
Highway Safety Drive
From Southeast
Edition
HAWKINSVILLE, GA.—A highway safety
drive, developed by the Motion Picture Theatre
Owners and Operators of Georgia, was
launched here recently at the Martin &
Thompson theatre before an audience of state
and local police, Safety council officials, state
and city representatives and School Safety
patrol members from nine counties.
HOW ACCIDENTS OCCUR
The occasion was the premiere of 15 trailers
on driving safety produced by the MPTOO
of Georgia through the cooperation of the
National Safety council. Four other similar
premieres were on schedule at the following
tentative places: Tifton, Thomaston, Rome
and Gainesville.
The 15 trailers will be flashed on the screens
of practically every theatre in Georgia, according
to J. H. Thompson, president of the
MPTOO of Georgia and head of the Martin-
Thompson circuit.
The films, each of which runs two minutes,
outline the do's and don'ts of driving and explain
how and why the majority of traffic
accidents occur.
Gov. Herman Talmadge is supporting the
drive wholeheartedly and it has been named
the Governor's Highway Safety drive. The
first series of trailers have started the round
of Georgia theatres. This initial short carries
a header showing the governor seated in his
office and addressing the theatre audience
on highway safety. In Ms talk, Talmadge
gives credit to the exhibitors' organization
for its valuable public service.
The campaign, Thompson reported, has
been integrated with the new educational division
of the Georgia Highway patrol, which
has organized safety "roadeos" in cities all
over the state. The roadeos consist of safe
driving contests. School Safety patrol exhibitions,
etc., and have directed public attention
to the subject in inescap>able manner.
TOO MANY DIE
At the local premiere of the trailers figures
were placed on the stage and in the lobby
portraying persons killed or injured in auto
smashups. Sgt. Maj. R. L. Crawford, the
principal speaker, is assistant supervisor of
safety education in the department of public
safety. He said "too many lives are being
nipped in the bud by traffic accidents ... In
the hands of a careless, irresponsible driver,
a car is a dangerous weapon."
Thompson spoke in behalf of the organization
which he heads. Trooper J. M. Moore,
Mayor W. F. Daniel, representatives of the
two local papers, the school superintendent,
Rotary club and Chamber of Comjnerce heads,
the chief of police and others also spoke.
The statewide drive is bringing widespread
attention to motion picture exhibitors of the
state as a public service organization. The
Macon Telegraph in an editorial paid credit
to the MPTOO and asserted the trailers
"teach us as members of the audience without
being conscious that we are learning .
The films are brief and will hardly bore
even the most excitable persons. None of the
reality of persons being mangled in car
crashes was omitted. The Telegraph commends
these directors of the cinema for their
fine program, a contribution to making Georgia
a safe state."
What have YOU done today to help secure
repeal of the unfair amusement tax?
BOXOFFICE :
OKLAHOMA CITY
^he Cooper Foundation's Vogue Theatre,
which is presenting a stock company
nightly, is paying off. Tlie Piper Players
opened with "Claudia" to a good hou.se and
played to a good turn-out at each performance.
After the first week run, all concerned
were reportedly "very pleased" with
the reception. Several city and state dignitaries
attended
Ayer of
the opening as did Ralph
Starting Tuesday (31),
Lincoln . . .
the Pipers switched to "Boy Meets Girl.'"
The players are booked into the Vogue until
May 1.
The Criterion offered vaudeville and a
screen bill last week. So did the Home .
H. O. Stark jr., formerly with Griffith Theatres
which is now known as Video Theatres,
left the hospital where he was treated
for pneumonia. Stark retired a few years
ago.
The Majestic celebrated its 36th anniversary.
This is the only business in Oklahoma
that has done continuous business
under the management of the same family
for so long a time, and at the same old
stand. The theatre was the first construction
in Oklahoma City to be put on a 24-
hour building basis. Tlie ground was broken
and the building erected in two weeks, according
to the current owner, Morris Loewenstein,
TOO president. The latter inherited
the business from his dad.
C. F. Motley, Video official, was pictured
in the daily press, presenting safety achievement
plaques to two editors for their cooperation
in promoting the statewide safety
program. Motley is a member of the safety
council board . Canova and a troupe
of entertainers are slated to perform at the
Municipal auditorium February 18 at popular
prices. Joe E. Brown is booked into .same
place on February 10 . . . The Warner offered
the Dick Contino show, starting Friday
(3) ... The Home stopped its screen policy
for a one-night performance by Lauritz
Melchior. The house was filled for the concert.
Inked to Producer-Writer Contract
With his first assignment to be RKO's "The
Man He Found," Stanley Rubin was inked to
a new producer-writer contract.
Hermleigh Ken opened
HERMLEIGH, TEX.—The new Ken Theatre,
owned by J. H. Hutcheson, was to be
opened immediately. Hutcheson will offer
first run films in the new theatre which
seats 254 on the main floor and 25 in the
balcony.
New Matinee Schedule
LULING. TEX.—The Stanley "nieatre has
inaugurated a .schedule of daily matinees
which arc proving popular. The boxoffice
now opens Monday through Friday at 2
o'clock and on Saturday, Sunday and holidays
at 1 o'clock.
"You'll Always
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4, 1950 109
ROLL

Cancer's Danger Signals
1. Any sore throat that does not heal
2. A lump or thickening in the breast or elsewhere
3. Unusual bleeding or discharge
4. Any change in a wart or mole
5. Persistent indigestion or diiticulty in swallowing
6. Persistent hoarseness or cough
7. Any change in normal bowel habits
can be your safety signals
Cancer is curable if discovered early and treated properly
li
any of these symptoms appear, see you doctor at once
Write for the booklet about cancer.
Just address your request to "CANCER"
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, INC
47 Beaver St.. New York 4. N. Y.
110 BOXOFHCE :: February 4, 1950

: February
:
Drive-In Ads Continue
During Renovation
MIAMI — "Out of sight is out of mind." is
the reason given by E. Y. Stafford, manager
of the Miami Drive-In, for continuing advertising
in the daily papers during the interval
in which the theatre is closed for renovation.
Stafford has been taking the same ad space
and using the same format for his ads, changing
only the wording. "It was my idea," says
Stafford, "to keep the theatre before the public
even though we were closed to remodel. I
reasoned that, having been in this community
for nearly 13 years, it would be very wrong
to go out of the papers during the remodeling
program."
The drive-in's ads are actually a "continued
story" of the progress the theatre is making.
Copy is changed every few days. "All the
while," says Stafford, "it continues to sell the
Miami Drive-In to the public."
Copy began by telling the public that a
face-lifting program had been started. It
later listed some of the improvements, such
as drive-over ramps and in-car speakers. To
patrons of the drive-in, the ads offer encouragement
from time to time, saying that "it
won't be long now."
For many years, the Miami Drive-In was
the only theatre of its type in the greater
Miami area. With the advent of new and
more modern drive-in ideas and equipment,
this house decided to offer its patrons "every
modern innovation." Stafford says that as
soon as the opening date becomes final he
intends to stress this point in his ads, giving
the public the date as far in advance as possible.
As some of his ads says, "Everything
will be new but the name."
Insurance Company Sues
For Recovery of Fire Loss
LITTLE ROCK—A suit to recover $7,268.92
paid by the Franklin Fire Insurance Co. on
a policy covering a theatre operated in
Magnolia, has been filed in district court
here by the Home Fire Insurance Co. Defendants
are the Magnolia Amusement Co.
and Lee Holland. The suit charges that negligence
in use of an acetylene torch while
installing air conditioning equipment in the
Magnolia-operated theatre resulted in a fire
which destroyed the property Mar. 3, 1948.
The claim was paid to Mrs. Mary Mitchell
and Mrs. Charline Martin, owners of the
building. The Franklin insurance firm later
merged with the Home Fire In.surance Co.
Darwin Hull Is Manager
At Tarpon Springs, Fla.
TARPON SPRINGS. FLA.—Darwin L. Hull
has been named manager of the two motion
picture houses here. He came to Florida from
Tulsa, Okla., where he was in the theatre
business. As soon as a home can be found,
he will be joined by his wife and daughters.
Window Cards to Merchants '
ATHENS. ALA.—Manager Robert Cannon
of the Ritz here won some goodwill from
merchants recently. He distributed signs for
merchants to post in their stores calling attention
to Thui'sday afternoon business
closings.
Birmingham Police Chief
Bans 'Pinky as Obscene
John Payne Is
Poison
To Parents' Theatre
MEMPHIS — John Payne made three
personal appearances at Strand Theatre
where his picture, "Captain China."
opened. Payne told reporters how he was
boxoffice poison recently at the Park
Theatre, which his family owns at Roanoke,
Va. The reason was that he and
his new Paramount picture, "Captain
China" were busy being boxoffice nectar
at the neighboring American Theatre in
Roanoke. His own family's Park Theatre
couldn't book the picture and was half
empty while he packed them in down the
street.
However, except for this bit of irony, he
enjoyed a fine visit with his mother, his
aunt and a lot of people he went to school
with.
Payne spoke to the Better Film Council,
the Exchange club, was entertained
at Variety Club and crowned the queen
of Memphis State college (above photo>.
A. A. Higginbotham Dies;
Dixie Theatres Head
NEW ORLEANS Arthur A. "Slim"
Higginbotham, president and general manager
of Dixie Theatres Corp., died at the
Hotel Dieu hospital here recently. Higginbotham
was a resident of Slidell, La., for
the last three years and was the stepfather
of Don Stafford, also of Dixie Theatres.
The circuit which Higginbotham controlled
owned some 17 theatres in Louisiana. Fxmeral
.services were conducted from St. James Episcopal
church in Baton Rouge.
Olin Lawson Transferred
To Andalusia Theatre
BREMEN, GA.— Olin Lawson. manager of
the Bremen Theatre here, has been transferred
to the Martin Theatre in Andalusia,
Ala. Lawson started with the Bremen in
1938. spent three years in the army and returned
here in 1945. J. H. Smith of the
Tifton Theatre, Tifton, Ga., succeeded
Lawson.
BIRMINGHAM—"Pinky" has been banned
in Birmingham by Police Chief Floyd Eddins.
Francis S. Falkenburg, manager of
the Paramount-operated Alabama Theatre,
said no protest will be made by the management.
The 20th-Fox film had been booked
to open February 9.
Chief Eddins notified Falkenburg that the
picture was being banned, under Section
1213 of the city code, because it is "indecent"
and "tends to create race hatred
among our people."
BANS ON SEVERAL POINTS
Copies of Eddins' letter were sent to R. B.
Wilby, Emil Bernstecker, district manager
for Paramount, and J. H. Harrison, circuit
booker. Section 1213 of the city code bans
exhibition of "any indecent, ob.scene, lewd,
filthy, vulgar or immoral act, scene, posture
or matter."
Chief Eddins wrote
"Under this section, I am banning it because
of the fact that it is indecent. Because,
after previewing this picture, it is my
conviction that: first, it is not decent; second,
it is unbecoming; third, it is morally
offensive and unfit to be seen.
"It is obscene because of the fact that
it is offensive to modesty and decency. It
also tends to corrupt the mind and to subvert
the respect for decency and morality in
regards to the white and Negro races, because
it pictures a white medical doctor and
a Negro trained nurse who have fallen in
love. It also pictures the doctor embracing
her and begging her to marry him, regardless
of her being a Negro, which certainly
is morally offensive to the races, and tends
to create a breach of the peace between the
white and Negro races. In addition thereto,
under the laws of this state, intermarriage
between the white and Negro races is prohibited
by statute.
'CREATES RACE HATRED'
"Also there are court .scenes depicted
showing the attitude of the white race and
the attitude of the black race with respect
to each other that tends to create race
hatred among our people, both white and
colored.
"Therefore, this will serve as your official
notice that I have banned this picture
from showing in the city of Birmingham,
and trust that it will meet with your
approval."
Manager Falkenburg said: "Our position
is this: We are under contract with the
studios to show their pictures, and, in accordance
with that contract, booked 'Pinky.'
Chief Eddins has banned the picture. And
a ban is a ban. From now on this is the
producer's problem, and if anything is done
it will be done by 20th Century-Fox.
Two Stricken With Mumps
ST. PETERSBURG—Mumps recently invaded
the theatre management ranks here.
Walter Tremor, manager of the Pheil has
recovered and is back on the job. So is
Charles Kirkconnell, LaPlaza manager, who
suffered the same ailment.
BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1950 SE 111

Complete Sound Systems
COSTS LBSS
N.

. . "Battleground"
: February
. . Jay
. .
. . The
A
'
MIAMI
•Phe FCC has been asked to approve the
transfer of the license of radio station
WMIE to the Sun Coast Broadcasting Co..
headed by Arthur B. McBride and Daniel
Sherby of a Cleveland cab business, from the
Lincoln Operating Co. Ownership of the
Lincoln company is listed as 46 per cent with
Mitchell Wolfson Theatre Enterprises and 27
per cent each with Sidney Meyer and Meyer
Wolfson . was in its sixth
week at Brandt's new Roosevelt. Over 50,000
people have viewed it so far . . , L. W. Davee,
sales manager for the Century Projector Corp.
of New York, dropped into Brandt's Roosevelt
to look over new projection room equipment
his company installed.
One hundred fifty Variety barkers and their
wives attended an installation dinner in the
club rooms of Variety Tent 33. The party was
in honor of George Hoover, general manager
for Paramount here and retiring chief
barker. He had officiated since the establishment
of the tent three years ago. Paul M.
Bruun was installed in the head place, others
of the crew including Mitchell Wolfson, assistant
chief barker; Arthur Schwartz, Hal
Kopplin, Sonny Shepherd. Dan Fitch, Jack
Bell, Al Weiss, Bill Dock, Jack Miller, Al
Wilkie and Hoover, who is a crew member
for five years.
"All the King's Men," opening at the Miami,
Lincoln and Miracle. Wometco houses, had
an eight-column review spread in the Sunday
Miami Daily News . Perlmutter, Miami
Beach realtor, has received a letter from Russell
Holman, eastern production chief for
Paramount, advising him that Paramount
contemplates assignment of writers to work
on his plot concerning a mercy killing. The
plot was submitted three years ago. Lately,
because of recent front-page mercy killings,
every major studio seems to be contemplating
films on this theme.
Emory Austin, MGM drum beater, was in
town heralding advance of what he calls
MGM Month in Miami, five big shows being
scheduled within the next 30 days. They include
"On the Town," "Ambush," "East Side,
West Side," "Malaya" and "Battleground" .
Allan Jones, film personality, was star of a
recent Variety Club show.
Al Jolson's goddaughter Joan Goldman celebrates
her fourth birthday on the Chinese
New Year eve, which will be celebrated at
her father's Miami Beach restaurant Fu
Manchu. Jolson plans to fly here for the
celebration.
With the Miami showing as a popularity
guide, 20th-Fox is getting ready a sequel to
"When Willie Comes Marching Home."
"Willie Wears More Medals" is the title . . .
Buddy Allen, talent agent and well known
in show business circles here, has been named
entertainment director of Miami Beach's 35th
LORRAINE
CARBONS
JIMMY WILSON
"A Friendly Service "
WILSON-MOORE ENT., INC.
P. O. Box 2034 Atlanto
BOXOFTICE :
anniversary celebration set for the week of
March 22.
Wometco's advertising for "Dancing in the
Dark," opening at the Miami, Lincoln and
Miracle, read: "F^ee $10 dance certificate
from Arthur Murray to all adults after 6 p. m."
. . . Harvey Fleischman is learning hog calls.
As promotion for a western to be shown at
the Capitol soon, a livestock auction will be
staged . . . Harry Foster has picked the Sherry-
Prontenac's two-level cabana club and pool
as the site for a Bill Stern short.
Three of Minsliy's dancers, now appearing
here, have produced a short film with their
own money. They plan to do others here
later ... It looks as though "The Red Shoes"
at popular prices may last out its second season
at the Flamingo on Miami Beach.
Lee Rigney and Richard Owen, whose experimental
one-act plays have been shown by
the drama department of the University of
Miami, will preview their musical "Rodeo"
here. Among guests will be producers Larry
Schwab. Sidney Kingsley, Oscar Hammerstein,
Ed Kahn and Joe Kipness. "Rodeo" is
a story of south Florida, particularly Clewiston
and Palm Beach.
Dan Fitch and Albert Hirsch of Variety
say that the club is heading into the stretch
with the Widener Handicap fund sale for the
benefit of the children's hospital . . . "Cinderella"
may be world premiered when it
comes to Claughton's Embassy and Variety
in February.
Mr. and Mrs. Michael St. Angel, better
loiown to film fans as Marjorie Halliday and
Stephen Flagg, are vacationing here. Mrs.
St. Angel is a former Miamian . silver
wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Edward
N. Claughton was the surprise occasion for
a luncheon for 32 guests at the Surf club
recently.
Florida Exhibitors
Will Meet in April
MIAMI — Bolivar F. Hyde of Lakeland,
president, announced the Motion Picture Exhibitors
of Florida will hold its annual convention
here in April. Election of officers will
be held and problems of the industry will be
discussed.
A banquet, to be the final affair of the convention,
now is being planned by Mitchell
Wolfson, TOA representative and chairman
of the entertainment committee. Hyde .said
he hoped exhibitors from Georgia and Alabama
would also attend the meeting.
Many exhibitors, Hyde said, seemed to be
under the impression that the organization
had been dormant since L. A. Stein of Jacksonville
became ill last September. However,
Hyde said, since that time the organization
has taken an active part in the battle
on admissions taxes in Florida.
Milton Dorriety a Chairman
GEORGIANA. ALA.—Milton Dorriety.
manager of the Ga-Ana Theatre, served as
March of Dimes campaign chairman of the
Georgiana district of Butler county.
Record Trade Gain
Wins Drive and Car
JACKSONVILLE—The 35th annual drive
recently sponsored by Florida State Theatres,
observing the 35
years spent in show
business by Jesse L.
Clark, its general manager,
proved one of the
most successful projects
of its kind ever
undertaken by the circ
u i t . platinum
watch set with diamonds
was given to
Clark at a dinner
which marked the
completion of the
seven-week campaign.
Richard Stafford
Richard Stafford, manager of the Lyric
Theatre at Gainesville, was awarded first
prize, a four-door sedan, for having increased
business at his house more than 2,000
per cent. Stafford is one of the youngest
managers employed by the circuit.
Al Weis jr., manager of the Olympic in
Miami, won the second prize, also a fourdoor
sedan. Donald Holcomb, manager of
the Seminole in Tampa, was awarded the
third prize, a television set. Fourth prize, a
gold watch, went to Lee Murphy, State, Plant
City. Will Brown of the Cameo, St. Petersburg,
won a living room suite offered as fifth
prize. The sixth prize, a deep freeze unit,
went to Bill Small, who manages the Victoria
at New Smyrna Beach. Rodgers Morgan
of the Florida at Tampa won the seventh
prize, an electric refrigerator.
Television sets were awarded to A. L. Cartwright,
northern division manager, and Howard
Joudon, southern division manager. Assistant
managers who won prizes included Joseph
Charles, Jacksonville; David Brown,
Tampa; Carleton Bowden, Lakeland; George
Krevo, Daytona, and Frank Frem, Palm
Beach. All won three-day all-expense trips
to Cuba.
Students See 'Garden'
BROOKSVILLE, FLA.—Local students were
given a chance to see "The Secret Garden
at the Dixie Theatre here recently during
school hours. The school and theatre have
an agreement that students will be excused
from classes to see the shows if they are
sponsored by some organization connected
with the school. Some classes sponsor the
shows as a means of making money. The
Dixie recently installed a new screen.
FILMACK
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and does it well
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4, 1950 113

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For comolete information write:
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P. 0. Box 630 HICKORY, N. C.
SELL YOUR THEATRE PRIVATELY
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ARTHUR LEAK Theatre Specialists
3422 Kinmore Dallas 10, Texas
Phone T3-2026
CONFIDENTIAL CORRESPONDENCE
NEW ORLEANS
T G. Broggi now is representing P. G. Mtirphy.
owner of the Carview Drive-In, Pascagoula,
Miss. ... A decline in grosses has
been reported by many local managers during
the last month due to the large attendance
at balls presented by the carnival organizations
in preparation for Mardi Gras.
Political rallies and elections, held for the
mayor of New Orleans, also affected business.
Mrs. Eileen Clay, former contract clerk for
Columbia, is mother of a baby girl ... J.
Shaefer, manager of Shaefer & Kemp Film
Delivery Service, has been ill for several days
highway boasts two new theatres,
both opened this week. The Woolner
Bros, began operation with "The Fighting
Man of the Plains" in their Air-Line Drive-
In, while Bill Sendy opened with "Seabiscuit"
in the Patio, which will replace the
Kenner Theatre, recently destroyed by fire.
Larry and Barney Woolner, owners of Drive-
In Movies, Inc., Memphis, Tenn., also operate
the Jefferson Drive-In here.
C. E. Lewis, Variety Clubs International
convention and publicity director, arrived
here for a luncheon and business meeting
in the Roosevelt hotel to discuss preparations
for the annual convention to be held here
April 26-29. Committees were appointed
among managers of local exchanges and
managers of theatre equipment and supply
houses. New Orleans has no Variety Club.
Crowds have been attracted to the Joy
by the 35-foot "Jolson" sign atop the marquee
of this Canal street theatre. Jolson's
arms are outspread and his body is outlined
in neon lighting. Throughout the run on
"Jolson Sings Again," which is being presented
for the first time here at popular
prices, recordings by Jolson will be amplified
outside the theatre. MacKenna, publicity director,
reported that the construction was a
product of the Pelican Sign Co. of New
Orleans.
Saenger Theatre had a sneak preview of
"Riding High" during the run of "The
Heiress" . floodlights outside Loew's
Theatre announced "Battleground," while
the RKO Orpheum opened "All the King's
Men" , Jones and His City Slickers
were presented at the Municipal auditorium
Paramount Auditor Henry
January 30 . . .
Goldberg returned to the local exchange.
This is his first visit since last year's audit
Neely of National Theatre Supply
is home after a California convention.
Joy N. Houck, president of Joy Theatres
in Louisiana, Mississippi. Arkansas and
Texas, returned with his wife after an extensive
tour of England, France and Germany
. . . Visiting exhibitors include Tom
McElroy, McElroy circuit, Shreveport; Pic
Mosely, Ritz, Picayune; C. D. Storie, Gulf.
Pensacola, Fla.; Leo Bounds, Bounds &
Houck, Texarkana, Tex.; E. I. Hawkins,
Hawkins circuit, Newellton, Miss.; Locke
Bolen, Bolen circuit, Jackson, Ala.; William
Sendy, Kenner; Reuben Talley, Lake, Catahoula
Lake; Milton Guidry, Guidry circuit.
Breaux Bridge; Ernest Delahaye. Gwen.
Maringouin, and E. Carollo, Arcade, Slidell.
Boca Raton Club Featured
In Two Short Subjects
BOCA RATON, FLA.—The Boca Raton club
will be featured in the filming of two separate
Warner shorts. One will be a resort
fashion story and the second will cover
Florida winter sports.
The fashion release will be made at the
Cabana club, occupying a mile-land strip of
ocean front, where 39 cabanas form a semicircle
on the beach floor oval, and an upper
deck, housing some 90 cabanas, is fringed
by a wide semicircular promenade.
Norman DuPaulr fashion editor for Warner
Pathe News, is here for the filming, and
several New York models will participate.
Norman H. Moray will supervise the shooting.
The production staff includes Jack
LeVein, producer-director, and Clifford Poland,
cameraman.
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WIL-KIN THEATRE SUPPLY,
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Charlotte, North Carolina
"Everything for the theatre except film"
INC.
Sack Atlanta Exchange
Sold to Howard Wallace
ATLANTA—Howard Wallace, manager of
the Sack Amusement Enterprises here since
1938. has taken over the local branch from
the Sack home office in Dallas and will rename
it the Wallace Film exchange. The deal
was effective February 1.
Wallace will handle all product formerly
released by Sack here, with other product to
be added.
Installs New Cycloramic Screen
PAHOKEE, FLA.—A new Cycloramic
screen has been installed in the Prince Theatre
by Joe Hornstein. Inc.. of Miami.
AMERICAN DESK
MANUFACTURING COMPANY
Manufacturers of Theatre Seating
Mr. W. A. Prewitt. Jr.. 223 South Liberty St.
'
Orleans. La. Ph: TULane 1101
114 BOXOFFICE :: Februarj' 4. 1950

. . . Ditto
. . Mrs.
: February
. . Mr.
ATLANTA
T ocal friends of Ted Beils, now manager
of the Rosetta Theatre in a suburb of
Miami, hear he has become father of a baby
boy . John Lakeman, Princess and
Dixie Theatres in Haleyville, was a visitor
T. E. Orr and H. Greene of
Emma Gracer is a
Albertsville, Ala. . . . Mrs.
new employe at the Cameo Theatre.
Paul Kies and Albert Massey of National
Carbon were here briefly . . . J. H. Thompson.
Hawkinsville; P. L. Taylor and A. L.
Bishop, Columbus; O. C. Lam and son
Thomas. Rome, and W. Welch, Dallas, Ga.,
were in booking ... A. P. Rhodes, general
manager of Dixie Drive-Ins, inspected the
new drive-in at Savannah . and Mrs.
Fred Weis of the Roxy at Savannah were
on Filmrow.
John Payne, accompanied by Paramount
. . Film
publicist Leonard Allen, appeared at the local
opening of his "Captain China" .
Classics moved this week to the office space
formerly occupied by the Strickland exchange.
Manager Ralph McCoy held open
house . . Joe Fink, manager of the Rhodes
.
Theatre, and Sam George, Paramount manager,
were on the Row.
Smiley Burnette, cowboy comedian, gave
away a pony during his appearance here
... On the Row: R. M. Kennedy, Birmingham;
Ernest Ingraham, Ashland and Lineville,
Ala.: Curtis Ware, former Georgia theatre
owner; Charles Clark, known as "Jackpot";
C. J. Carter. Jacksonville, Fla.; Nat
Hancock, Jefferson, Ga.; Mrs. Wallace Smith,
Barnesville, Ga.; John Carter and wife. Brookhaven,
Ga.; Mack Jackson, Alexander City,
Ala.; Mr. and Mrs. Shingler, Buena Vista.
Ga.
Have you written to your congressmen and
senators about repeal of the unfair amusement
tax?
WALLACE FILM
EXCHANGE
announces
the purchase of
Sack Amusement
Enterprises
Atlanta Branch
Handling Negro Features and
Shorts,
The Pick of Art pictures.
Westerns and Action Dramas
140 Havana Theatres Ask and Get
Latest Films for Booming Business
MIAMI—Intense rivalry between Cubans
and Americans is evidenced in show business,
according to a survey by Herb Rau. "Whatever
you can do we can do better," is how
one Havana impresario put it.
Despite union difficulties locally, and with
U.S. musicians' official Petrillo on reciprocal
agreements, Havana show business today is
bigger than ever. American films with Spanish
titles are the biggest entertainment attraction.
There are 140 motion picture theatres in
the Havana area and the people demand, and
obtain, latest Hollywood releases. "The
Heiress," an Academy award contender which
has just opened in Miami at Paramount's
Beach, Sheridan and Paramount, already
has played' the America Theatre. "Battleground,"
which premiered a month ago at
Brandt's Roosevelt, Miami Beach, and is still
playing there, opens soon.
Musical films are dead as far as Cuban
patronage is concerned. They want comedy
and light drama. However, give them anything
with Esther Williams, says Rau, and
they'll tear the house down battling for seats.
She's their favorite.
The average Cuban, the guy who regularly
buys a block of film tickets for his large
family, will support motion pictures but won't
take live theatre talent too seriously. This is
being proved now by the rapidly flopping
La Blanquita Theatre, reputedly the world's
largest with its 6,700 seats. La Blanquita,
built by a millionaire Cuban senator as a
memorial for his deceased wife, opened December
30 with a musical revue staged by
Lou Walters and E. M. Loew, both well-known
on the Miami amusement scene. They flew
in a cast of 80 performers for a three-week
production. But customers are sitting on
their wallets. Little promotion and exploitation
marked the opening and, besides, the
theatre is located some distance from the
heart of Havana. It cannot, to date, be described
as a successful operation.
"I think the only way we'll save it is by
throwing in a film," said Loew. Others in
the industry believe that not even a motion
picture will help and that the edifice will
eventually revert to government operation.
Rudolph Kopp has been signed to prepare
and direct the musical score for the Metro
short, "Wrong Son."
Two Theatre Sales
MEMPHIS—Two theatres were sold this
week. Forace Kennedy bought Quitman Theatre,
Quitman, Ark., and will book and buy
in Memphis. Henry Pickens, who owns theatres
in Carlisle and DuValls Bluff, Ark.,
bought the Semo Theatre, Steele, Mo., from
C. A. Gilliland.
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ATLANTA, GEORGIA
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714 N E First Avenue Miami, Florida
at
BOXOFFICE
;
4, 1950 115

'
By HARRY HART
T> A. GETFORD, owner, and Randolph Ward,
manager, were preparing to open the
Carver at Leesburg, Fla., when I called. Seating
300 and of cinder
block and steel construction,
it has RCA
and Simplex equipment.
Getford told me
that two more house.s
will be added soon to
the Carver circuit. The
theatre has a concession
stand and a tree
parking lot. It is the
only house in the
county for Negro patronage.
Harry Hart xhe Movie Garden
outdoor theatre at Eustis. Fla., is a beauty
and belongs to the Golden Triangle interests.
J. R. Dickson, manager, formerly was
a salesman for Warner Bros. The drive-in
handles 440 cars, and it will be surrounded
by orange groves when the five acres to the
rear are planted this spring. Tlie tower is
of concrete and steel construction. Extensive
landscaping has just been completed.
An associate company has started a drive-in
at Leesburg.
At De Land, Fla., R. E. Hawker and H. W.
Alexander were putting the final touches on
theii- 300-car drive-in for a February 3 opening.
It is located on the Daytona Beach road
Model 4570 Hi- Intensity
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No mechanical changes required for
the transition from 45 to Til amperes.
Rugged, efficient, easy to operate.
Charlotte Theatre Supply
11 G Poplar St.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Complete Theatre Equipment & Supplies
about three miles from De Land.
H. B. Reddick of the State Theatre in
Eustis says people are shopping for pictures
as they do for groceries. "Adam's Rib" hit
the spot like a glass of ice water on a hot
day.
At the Dreka in De Land. I found Bill
Tison, manager, jubilant over "Henry V" and
conducting a campaign for "Hamlet" which
he played one day, January 31.
At the Athens there, Joe Fleishel, manager,
was planning remodeling which will be started
soon at this landmark. The house will be
reseated, and a new marquee and front will
be installed. It recently was air conditioned.
The theatre will be closed about six weeks.
J. B. Hem-iksen was supervising the painting
of the screen at the Daytona Beach
Drive-In. At the Empire in Daytona Beach,
W. S. Nearing, manager, was working on a
campaign for "Battleground."
W. S. Baskin, manager of the Florida at
Daytona Beach, has purchased a home with
GI aid.
George Krevo, manager, and M. A. Dupree,
city manager, were in the art department at
the Daytona Theatre and showed me blowups
of material taken from ads in BOXOFFICE
on "That Forsyte Woman," as paper was
lacking. Tliey both stressed the importance
of BOXOFFICE when they are short of
material. Krevo is publicity chairman for tlie
local Red Cross chapter and aided in the
March of Dimes campaign. He was looking
forward to the Cuban trip he won in the 35th
anniversary drive sponsored by the circuit.
Louis Moskovits of the Star Theatre at New
Smyrna Beach was not in, but I talked with
brother Sidney.
At Sanford. Fla., I waited for C. B. Schirard
to arrive and open the drive-in which is
running double features Tuesday and Wednesday
nights each week. He gives away six
cowboy suits each Saturday night to lucky
boys and girls. Plans are being made to place
neon tubing on the tower, which contains the
office.
The Prairie Lake Drive-In at Altamont
Springs, Fla., was lighted like a camp meeting
and I dodged many cars to reach the
office and see J. R. Parklow and L. H. Andrews,
who also operate the Khul Avenue
Drive-In at Orlando. It is a 450-car situation
with walk-in seats for 500. They were running
"On the Town" at the Prairie Lake and
"The Doctor and the Girl" at the other airers.
Both men were emphatic in saying that they
will not run a show they vi'ould not want
their children to see. Their concession stand
serves meals at popular prices and a fried
chicken dinner for 85 cents.
The Prairie Lake has a 43x57-foot screen
and extensive landscaping now is in progress
"The Red Shoes" was to open a five-day
run February 5. the first time that the film
has played at an open air theatre to my
knowledge.
J. A. Lipson. manager of the Winter Park
Drive-in was supervising a cleanup squad.
At the Ri-Mar Drive-In, Orlando, Mr. and
Mrs. G. A. Martin were painting the screen
and changing the lens on the projector. A
lighted fountain in front of the drive-in
makes a pretty sight at night. Mrs. Martin
showed me some of the fine game cocks she
raises as a hobby.
C. M. Biggers. owner of the Starlight Drive-
In and the Winter Theatre at Winter Garden,
Fla., was busy with booking. The Starlight,
a 250-car situation, was opened last
August 31. The screen tower is semicircular
to protect the audience from winds and blowing
sand, and is constructed of steel and
concrete. Biggers has had many years of
experience in show business. He likes to take
time out to fish, especially when he can get
a film salesman to accompany him.
Harry Gordon, operator of the Carver at
Orlando, which was opened last October, was
conferring with John M. Spearing, lATSE
business agent from Jacksonville. The 600-
seat house for Negro patronage has a modern
concession bar and a foyer with real eye
appeal.
Vernon Hunter, city manager for Florida
State Theatres in Orlando, was telling me
about how important it is to tie in with business
firms. He has found that the tieup is a
50-50 deal for merchants and theatres, and
that merchants often call him to secure
tieups.
Bill Wilson, manager of the Beacham Theatre
in Orlando, was trying a novel stunt to
increase business at the candy bar. Samples
of the various candy bars were passed to all
patrons entering the theatre by a girl stationed
at the entrance. Wilson said the stunt
increased sales.
William Spooner, Florida state exploiteer
in Orlando, is mighty proud of his new
daughter Norma Lee Ann.
A. F. Horton, manager of the Orlando
Drive-In, was looking over his list of pictures
for the next few days. Horton came to the
drive-in recently from Lawrenceville, Va. He
has worked for circuits in Virginia and the
Martin circuit in Georgia, but says he likes
Florida best.
At Ocala, Fla., I stayed with Claude H.
Long, 76-year-old showman who is known as
"The Kid" among his friends. He and his
wife operate a tourist home. At the Ocala
Drive-In, Carl C. Howell, new owner, and
Ray Rogers, manager, had just finished playing
"Mom and Dad" for a three-day run
which broke all records at the drive-in. Extensive
improvements have been made in the
lighting. One ramp is reserved for Negro
patrons, and there are walk-in seats for about
125 persons. James A. Howell, brother of the
owner, has charge of the concession stand,
and Mrs. Carl Howard is ticket seller. Howell
gave 2 cents of every "Mom and Dad" admission
to the March of Dimes campaign. He
purchased the drive-in from Ira Dyer, who
will devote his time to his theatre interests
in Kentucky.
C. Ted Chapin of the Marion Theatre at
Ocala won a radio in the 35th anniversary
drive sponsored by Florida Theatres.
Bill Cumbaa of the M&M circuit said that
the 315-car drive-in being erected at Leesburg,
to be known as the Crest, will be completed
about March 1. The lobby of the Palace
in Leesburg is being repainted.
Repainting of the front and the lobby of
the Bushnell will be started soon,
A parking lot has been opened for patrons
of the Lake at Tavares. Fla.
A cry room is one of the features of the
new Martin Theatre opened recently at Wildwood.
Fla.
Robert Heekin. manager of the Florida The-
116 BOXOFFICE :
: February 4, 1950

atre in Jacksonville, showed me the nursery
where a registered nurse is in charge from 6
to 10:30 p.m. each week day and from 2:30
on Sundays. It has a capacity for about 40
babies and is kept spotless. Although never
advertised it is always used to capacity.
Clint Ezell, who manages the Empress and
Imperial theatres, located side by side, says
home is not the .same since he won a television
set in a recent contest for theatre managers.
He complains his wife has moved the
supper hour up a notch because the house
up with neighborhood children when the
fills
cowboy rides his trusty steed across the
screen.
Ray Yockey jr., manager of the Casino,
offers a lunch hour bargain matinee. Unless
the excise taxes are repealed soon exhibitors
will soon be working for the government entirely,
he contends.
D. R. Bagby, manager of Dixie's Atlantic,
360-car drive-in on Beach road, was busy with
maintenance problems. He is expecting the
birth of a third child soon.
C. L. Clyatt jr., manager of the Capitol, a
neighborhood theatre, which is featuring a
bicycle giveaway and Saturday morning
show, was very happy over a combination PM
and TV set he won recently in a managers'
contest.
F. C. Tarpley, a newcomer to the show business
from North Carolina, is managing the
Lake Shore Theatre for owner M. C. Moore,
who is well-known in the show business. Since
purchasing the Lake Shore he has renovated
it thoroughly and added air conditioning,
making of it a modern and beautiful house
of 400 seats,
Cecil Phillip Cohen, owner of the Murray
Hill, a 700-seater in the Murray Hill section
of Jacksonville, went to sleep while driving
down Kings avenue the other night. 'When
he awoke the automobile was a complete
wreck near a fruit stand where it came to
rest on its top. Cohen was unhurt, but he
wouldn't tell me what kind of a luck charm
he carries.
CHARLOTTE
Pverett Olseon, Paramount ad-man, left here
recently with actor John Payne for Memphis.
They are touring the southland and
planned to stop in several North and South
Carolina towns before getting to Tennessee.
In Memphis, Olseon met actor Wendell Corey
and took him to New Orleans for appearances
Cy Dillon, Republic manager, returned
there . . .
to his office after a tour of several
Carolina cities.
Walter Griffith, manager of the Charlotte
The crew of the
Theatre, has been ill . . .
Charlotte Variety Club, held a meeting this
week . . . T. A. Little has returned to his
office in the Consolidated Theatres building
after a brief illness.
Three veterans of the Battle of the Bulge
are visiting Carolina cities in connection witli
the showing of "Battleground." The trio, all
veterans of the 101st airborne division, now
are members of the 82nd division at Pt.
Bragg. Two of the men were among the 21
soldiers who actually had a part in the film,
while one of them Cpl. Shelby Charles doubles
for Marshall Thompson, a principal actor
in the picture.
Three Shermans to Build Drive-In
At Charlotte; Other Construction
CHARLOTTE—Plans for the construction
of a new $100,000, 700-seat theatre have been
revealed here by the Sherman Enterprises.
The theatre will be built on the Rozzelle
Ferry road near the Belvedere Hosiery mill,
and will be called the Belvedere.
Herb, Hal and Art Sherman are owners of
the new enterpri.se. Tliey now live in Jacksonville,
N. C, and have operated theatres
in the northwest and on the Pacific coast.
They plan to move here immediately. Construction
will get under way at once and the
theatre is slated to be completed within 90
days.
The theatre will be of modern design and
will feature a marble and stucco front with
aluminum and glass blocks. A two-tone color
scheme of brown marble will be used. The
auditorium will be acoustically treated and
the floors will be sloped. A large, well-lighted
parking space also will be provided.
J. Fred Brown to Rebuild
Berryville, Ark., Ozark
BERRYVILLE, ARK.—Johnny Long, manager
of the Ozark Theatre which was destroyed
by flames recently, says that J. Fred
Brown of Memphis, owner of the theatre,
will start rebuilding the house immediately.
Brown plans to construct an entirely new
house and has not decided whether to rebuild
in the former location or to build on
a new site.
The theatre was a complete loss, amounting
to about $30,000, in the fire. It had
been remodeled only recently at a cost of
$10,000. Before deciding to remodel the
house. Brown had considered building a new
local theatre, but ran into land title difficulties
and settled for the renovation of the
Ozark. The theatre building was built about
1910 and the first theatre was opened by
N. G. Brown, It has been operated continuously
as a theatre under owners Tiff
Watkins, H. E. Tabor, Hugh 'Wall, H. E.
Ruh, who sold the house to Brown about
three years ago.
Father and Three Sons to
Build at Prattville, Ala.
PRATT'VILLE, ALA.—A father-son partnership
is building a drive-in two miles south
of here on Highway 31. The cost is estimated
at $70,000 to $75,000. The partnership
is composed of G. C. Coburn and his
three sons. The sons are Grover R. Coburn,
who will manage the theatre; J. T. Coburn
and H. D. Coburn.
This "family partnership" is nothing new
for the Coburns, who live in the 'White City
community in Autauga county. They pooled
their resources back in 1926 to sell farm
produce from door to door. They increased
their business and now are big suppliers of
produce to chain stores.
The new theatre, expected to be completed
around the middle of April, incorporates
many of the features of the Clanton, Ala.,
Drive-In Theatre, operated by J. A. Jackson.
Motiograph equipment is being supplied by
Wil-Kin Theatre Supply, Atlanta.
Scenic Theatre Reopens
On Four-Day Week Basis
LAKE WALES, FLA—The Scenic Theatre
has reopened for the winter on a four-day-aweek
basis. Pictures will be shown on Friday,
Saturday, Sunday and Monday with
matinees on Saturday and Sunday. State
Theatre Manager Leslie Pendleton said Betty
Brinkworth would be in charge of the Scenic.
The Scenic will play a western and a serial
each Friday and Saturday and a double feature
on Sunday and Monday. The State
schedule will remain unchanged except for
transfer of the western and serial to the
Scenic.
Gem at Bryson City, N. C,
Opened by Gomer Martin
BRYSON CITY. N. C—The new Gem Theatre
has been opened here by Gomer Martin,
owner, and J. E. Massie of Waynesville,
lessee. Ernest Smiley, manager of the other
local theatre, said showings in that house
ceased prior to the opening of the Gem.
The new tlieatre was constructed after a
new city ordinance was put into effect which
would have closed the old house. Construction
on the Gem started last August.
Martin Theatres Announce
Brewion, Ala., Drive-In Plans
BRE'WTON, ALA.—Construction will be
started in February or March by Martin
Theatres on a 400-car drive-in in East Brewton.
Howard Schad. manager of Martin's
Ritz here, said that the theatre will be built
on a nine or ten-acre plot near the intersection
of the Milton and Andalusia highways.
The theatre also will have seats for
walk-in patrons.
Cost of the venture was not made public.
Mo-Kan Drive-Ins to Build
Berryville, Ark., Airer
BERRYVILLE, ARK.—A 200-car drive-in
will be built near here by the Mo-Kan
Drive-In, Inc.. according to Chet Borg. a
member of the firm. Borg was here recently
seeking to contract for bulldozer work
on the site, which is located between here
and Green Forest on U.S. Highway 62.
The 200-car situation is expected to be
ready for operation this spring.
Drive-In Company
Chartered at Mobile
MOBILE. ALA.—Incorporation papers
have been filed in probate court here by the
Do-Drive-In Theatre Co. to construct and
operate drive-in theatres. Authorized capital
is $10,000. Estelle P. Suess is president
and Thomas G. Greaves jr. is secretarytreasurer.
Officers said they were not prepared
to announce construction plans.
Remodel Montgomery Empire
MONTGOMERY—Bickey Covey, manager
and part-owner with R. M. Kennedy of the
Empire here, is doing some remodeling. First
two steps on the program were the installation
of new seat bottoms and the improvement
in the women's restrooms.
There is no time to lose! Act today on
repeal of the amusement tax!
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 117

. .
. . From
. . Irene
. .
MEMPHIS
pd WiUiamson, manager for Warner Bros,
who is serving his second term as chief
barker of Variety Tent 20, was elected a director
of Cynthia milk fund of the Press-Scimitar
which distributes around $15,000 worth of
free milk to needy Memphis children annually.
Williamson is the first representative
of the motion picture industry to be elected
to the board. The action followed the joint
sponsorship of School Days revue, a stage
show, by the Variety and Cynthia milk fund
last year which raised around $5,000 for the
Cynthia and Variety charities. School Days
revue will become an annual affair. Ben
Bluestein, active chairman of Variety's entertainment
committee, produces the show.
M. A. Liffhtman sr., president of Malco
Theatres. Inc.. and his wife won the weekly
duplicate bridge game at Hotel Chisca .
John Payne, actor who came here to make
personal appearances at the opening of "Captain
China" at the Strand, spoke at the Exchange
club. He said Hollywood was a 9 to 6
town where 90 per cent of the people lived
an ordinary, normal life. "For every citizen
of Hollywood you read about in headlines. I
know five quite responsible people who live
normal lives and raise their children and are
just happy."
Dixie Theatre, Potts Camp, Miss., has been
purchased by F. C. Seymour and its name
1^^^
costs less^
TTiat's riplit ! . . . costs less than any
comparaMc equipment. Built like a
battleship. Heavy steel plate base and
welded steel frame gives over INK)
pounds of rock-ribbed riRidity for perfect
support to projection cfiuipmcnt.
Available for immediate delivery.
Rhodes Sound & Projection
Service
218 East 56th Street
Savannah, Georgia
Complete Theatre Equipment & Supplies
changed to Potts Camp Theatre. Seymour
will book and buy in Memphis. A. A. Tipton
has closed the Tipton. Caraway, Ark,
temporarily for repairs.
Onie Ellis and Amelia Ellis, Mason, Mason,
Tenn., were Filmrow visitors. W. F. Ruffin
sr., Covington, Tenn., was in town . . . R. R.
Clemmons, Missouri, Palmer, and Jimmie
Seay, Grand at Cardwell, were exhibitors here
from Missouri.
From Mississippi came A. N. Rossi, Roxy,
Clarksdale; J. C. Bonds, Von, Hernando: T.
E. Williams, Tyson, Clarksdale; Mart
Mounger, Mart, Calhoun City; G. C. Pratt,
Dixie, Fulton; J. R. Adams. Jeran, Booneville;
J. A. Owen. Amory. Amory; Jack Watson,
Palace. Tunica, and C. N. Eudy. Ackerman
at Ackerman and Houston at Houston.
Mrs. Edith Jensen, head inspector at 20th-
Fox. is recuperating at home after a major
operation and expects to be back at her
post in another week . . . Shirley Uth, former
assistant cashier at 20th-Fox, who now
is a senior at University of Mississippi, was
a visitor on Filmrow . Arkansas
came Fi-ed and Zell Jaynes, Maxie at Trumann
and Joy at West Memphis; Don Landers.
Radio. Harrisburg; Mr. and Mrs. J._R.
Keller. Joiner, Joiner; Jeff Singleton, TyTO,
Tyronza; Gene Higginbotham, Melody, Leachville.
and Moses Sliman, Lux at Luxora and
Murr at Osceola.
Orris Collins, Capitol and Majestic, Paragould;
Alvin Tipton. Caraway, Monette and
Manila; Burris Smith, Imperial, Pocahontas;
W. H. Pickens. Ritz at DuValls Bluff, Lyle
at Carlisle and Semo at Steele. Mo.; Louis
Haven jr.. Imperial and Haven, Forrest City;
W. L. Moxley, Savoy. Blytheville; K. H. Kinney.
Hays. Hughes; Gordon Hutchins, State.
Corning, and W. L. Landers. Landers. Batesville,
were among other Arkansas exhibitors
seen on Filmrow.
Leonard Hirsh, New York, sales department;
Rudolph Berger, southern sales manager,
and John S. Allen, assistant to the
southern sales manager, were at MGM on
business . . . Ben Cammack, RKO southeast
district manager, Dallas, was in town .
R. N. Wilkinson, U-I manager, and salesmen
Richard Settoon and Floyd Harvey attended
a sales meeting in St. Louis . Owen,
stenographer, and Ruby Herren. ledger clerk,
resigned at Universal, and Mildred Boyd, who
formerly worked there, returned to the company.
BIRMINGHAM
f^harlie Walker, manager of the Gary In
Fairfield, selected Miss Fairfield Steel
of 1950 in a contest on the stage of the
theatre. Her identity was announced at a
benefit March of Dimes ball at Fairfield
city hall. Walker was in charge of the
program for the dance. The winner, Mary
Frances Gilstrap, received a gold watch, and
the runnerup, Virginia Sandlin, received a
piece of luggage. Both were given all-expense
plane trips to Atlanta, where they
appeared at the Roosevelt ball.
Exhibitors in town included H. W. Fulwider
of the soon-to-open Anniston Drivein;
H. P. Whatley. Arabian, Arab; G. H.
Rollins, Varsity, Tuscaloosa; H. J. Cleveland.
Sky-line. Tuscaloosa; Earl Kretzschmar,
Hanceville, Hanceville, and Mr. and
Mrs. H. G. Lawrence, formerly of the Fox,
.
Blountsville, and now of the Princess,
Gadsden . . Bert Smith, assistant manager
of the Alabama, and wife became parents
of a daughter named Margaret Lacy . . .
Sara Parrish. secretary in the office of
Queen Feature Service, is back at her desk
after a long absence.
Jimmy Hobbs, Monogram manager, was a
visitor, as was Bob Tarwater. EL manager.
Also seen in town were Walter Walker and
Jack Flood. Columbia salesmen . . . James
Willard of Strong Electric Corp. and O. G.
Taylor of Altec were here on business . . .
Manager Jimmy Bellows of the Strand is
bringing "The Red Shoes" back at popular
prices for a run starting February 16. The
film first played at the Newmar with a
$1.20 top ... A near capacity crowd attended
a preview of "Sands of Iwo Jima"
at the Empire on Sunday (29) . . John
.
W. Douglas, assistant general manager of
Acme Theatres, and Marvin Kelly, Empire
manager, were hosts to marine veterans, the
press and other special guests. The film
opened a day and date showing at the
Empire and Melba the following Wednesday.
New Ritz, Crenshaw, Miss.
Is Opened by J. C. Moore
MEMPHIS—A new 525-seat Ritz Theatre
has been opened at Crenshaw. Miss., by J. C
Moore, owner. It replaces the theatre he ha.-'
been operating in a store building.
K^nL^cni^Mo.
Get your audience signing petitions now! IVianCI^er f UUl lYLlZe IS 111
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO.
manager, says the Strand is participating in
DELRAY BEACH. FLA.—Paul Mize. manager
of the Delray Theatre, is confined to his
home because of illness. During his absence,
DRIVE-IN THEATRE
E. Kimbrell has taken over the management.
PORT HOLE BLOWER
Aids March of Dimes Drive
Eliminates Dust. Bugs and Rain From Coming in Port
Hole — Also eliminates use of Optical Glass, Therefori
VICKSBURG. MISS.—Mrs. Maywood Lyon,
giving clearer and cleaner projection.
the March of Dimes polio fund campaign.
Mrs. Lyon has been active in all such movements
since coming to Vicksburg last June.
Southern Avenue Firm Disbands
SHREVEPORT. LA.—Southern Avenue
Amusement Co.. Inc., has been granted dissolution
of incorporation.
Phyllis Kirk has been set for a role in the
Lana Turner vehicle. "A Life of Her Own," a
Metro film.
118 BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

John J. Chisholm Heads
New Producers Group
TORONTO—John J. Chisholm who recently
was elected chairman of the newly organized
Ass'n of Motion Picture Producers and Lab-
JOHN J. CHISHOLM
oratories of Canada is Ontario manager for
Associated Screen News. He had years of
experience in theatrical and nontheatrical
film production, starting as an actor and stunt
rider. He then went into the many phases
of motion picture production in Hollywood
before returning to Canada, where he entered
the industrial film production field.
Continued development and improvement
of Canada's motion picture industry will be
sought by the new organization. Elected
vice-chairman was Hans Tiesler, Audio Pictures.
Graeme Fraser, Crawley Films, was
named secretary-treasurer, and Larry Cromein.
Canadian Motion Picture F^-oductions;
Rene Germain, Quebec Productions: Pierre
Harwood. Phoenix studio, and Leon Shelly,
Shelly Films, were chosen directors.
Lobby Display Framed;
Has Attractive Look
HALIFAX—Leo P. Charlton, manager of
the Oxford Theatre, created a novel lobby
display in connection with his first run showing
of "Mr. Perrin and Mr. Traill." Charlton
took a litho illustration of the stars, pasted
them against a background, and from beaverboard
fashioneS a practical frame around the
display. Across the bottom, star names, title
and playdates gave the display unusual distinction.
Still Seek a Site
From New England Edition
HARTFORD—A proposal
by Frank Lloyd
Wright, the architect, that officials of the
Travelers Insurance Co. of Hartford turn over
land on Albany avenue to interests seeking
to construct a legitimate theatre, designed
by Wright, received a flat "no" from the
insurance concern. Meantime, an advisory
committee, consisting of prominent Hartfordites,
is aiding Paton Price, one of the theatre
backers, in a search for an appropriate location
in the city.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE COMBINATION ENTRANCE
and ENTRANCE DRIVEWAY FLOODLIGHT
Also available with Exit Panels
Arrows may be either right or left.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. K'/nfas'ci'Ji'MS.
No Temperament, No Berets in His
Production Unit, Says Alcorn
NEW YORK—Ronald W. (Ronny) Alcorn,
who has just produced his first picture.
"Johnny Holiday," now in release by United
Art:sts, is refreshingly different.
"Johnny Holiday," opened at the Lake Theatre,
Indianapolis, 17 years to the day after
Alcorn had been sent to the Indiana Boys
School at Plainfield, Ind., after a judge had
told him he would never amount to anything.
The governor and a few other important Indiana
personages were at the opening. The
locale of the picture is that boys' school.
"Don't get me wrong," says Alcorn; "the
picture is no sociological study; it's entertainment."
Alcorn was introduced at a luncheon at the
Stork Club. He arose, said "hello" and sat
down.
Somebody inquired: "Can I quote you?"
Tlien he answered questions.
There's no temperament in his production
unit, he says.
"Nobody wears a beret," he explained, "and
the production manager helps out on the exploitation
between pictures."
Alcorn says with the utmost frankness that
he had never slept in a clean bed before he
was sent to the boys' home and had never had
NFB Distribution
Halted in Quebec
MONTREAL—Distribution of National Film
Board productions in the Montreal area by
the Quebec government publicity bureau was
halted January 27, but officials declined comment
pending further instructions.
In Quebec City, the newspaper L'Evenement-Journal
said in a front page story that
Cine-Photographie, the provincial film bureau,
had suspended distribution of NFB
films and that the latter might be discussed
at Pi-emier Maurice Duplessis' press conference
in the provincial capital.
The newspaper said it had learned that the
provincial bureau was refusing all orders for
films produced by the federal service, and
added that the decision was made by the
executive council, which has jurisdiction over
the provincial bureau. It quoted Alphonse
Proulx, chief of distribution for the provincial
bureau, as stating that the National Film
Board in Ottawa had not been advised of the
Quebec government decision.
Gilbert Fournier, head of the Montreal office
of the bureau, declined comment. Joseph
Beauregard, assistant regional directoi
of the National Film Board for the province,
told the Star that the NFB office here had
received no official notice to suspend distribution
of NFB pictures. He was, therefore,
unable to comment on the Quebec story.
The Quebec newspaper said the reason for
the suspension of NFB films was not known
but that it was believed that the provincial
government was acting as a result of events
during the last .session of the house of commons.
National Film Board officials in Ottawa
said that they had had no word on any
banning of distribution of NFB films by the
Quebec film bureau.
three meals a day.
"Ten thousand boys a year are sent to reformatories,"
he added, "who are simply misunderstood
and they wind up later in penitentiaries.
Alcorn is said to have made his first million
before he was 28 in some big flour deals with
the government of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Some
say he has made another million or two since
then, but he shrugs that off when It is mentioned.
He was born in 1919.
Apparently he doesn't worry about financing
pictures.
"No participation deals," he says. "If some
studio wants to come along and make a cutin
at, say—seven, e ght or ten per cent, perhaps
we can talk."
He wants to make two and one-third pictures
a year. The first year he turned out
one, but it didn't disturb him.
"We wait until we get a story," he says,
"and then we take our time on it."
He now has a story in work about Oklahoma
during the Civil War called "Under
Two Flags." He is looking for an Important
male star. It will be in color. "Timber" and
"Wichita" also are included in his plans, with
one in Technicolor.
Complete Sound Systems
ll-
COSTS USS
No c

. . Don't
. . . Manager
. . Out
. . The
. . James
:
—
—
Theatreman Helps U. S.
Treasury
Debunk 'Financial' Superstitions
NEW YORK—Nick John Matsoukas, who
organized the Committee of 13 Against
Superstition Aug. 13, 1946, which has me:
each Friday, the 13th since that time, now
has the U.S. Treasury department interested
in liis superstition-cracking efforts. Phi'ip
M. Light, director of the New York Savmg.s
Bond Office for the Treasurj' department,
has sent out a letter offering to debimk common
superstitions about money, savings, and
making a living.
It begins: "Be wise . be superstitious
about your money." Then it continues:
"After exhaustive study we herewith
present 13 of the most popular misconceptions,
superstitioiLS and prejudices relating
chiefly to money and savings."
HIS 13 SUPERSTITIONS
The 13 points listed are:
1. Two Dollar Bills Are Unlucky. Seventyfive
two-dollar bills will buy one $200 U.S.
savings bond, and if that is bad luck, let's
have more of it.
2. Money Can't Buy Happiness. It can, if
you use it correctly. It is true, with all the
money he can use, a man can be imhappy.
But his money will make it a lot easier for
him to be happy if he knows how to be.
3. A Four-Leaf Clover Brings You Luck.
It is bad judgment for anyone to trust in
four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, or rabbit feet
to bring fortune or protect him from harm.
Far better to trust to U.S. savings bonds.
4. The World Owes You a Living. Fortunately,
this belief is possessed by very few
men. Otherwise, there wouldn't be any living.
Actually, there is no man who does not
owe everything to the world, to his parents,
to the resources of the land, and to those
with whom he works and does business. There
are also some things man owes to himself.
For example, he owes it to himself to buy
savings bonds regularly.
5. You Can Beat the Races If You Know
How. Anyone who plays the ponies for a
long period has to yield to the averages and
percentages. The odds are against him. With
savings bonds, odds are with you. The mere
you buy, the more you gain.
CAN COUNT ON 70 YEARS
6. Drink and Be Merry, for Tomorrow You
Die. Be as merry as you like, you aren't going
to die tomorrow. At maturity the average
person may coimt on living beyond the
age of 70 years. So you can count on a long
future, and you can figure that you can
provide for the futiu-e with savings bonds.
7. Roosters Crow Every Hour on the Hour.
There isn't a rooster on earth that will give
you the time of day. A man who buys savings
bonds at regular intervals, however, will
have something to crow about regularly in
the future.
8. Man Is by Nature Improvident. It is as
If man was
natural to be thrifty as to spend.
not by nature able to regulate his behavior,
he would not be able to live. The natural
capacity to save has been demonstrated by
the ability of Americans to buy and keep
more than 56 billion dollars in U.S. savings
bonds since 1935.
9. If a Bee Stings You, It Dies. A bee
does not die from stinging tmless you kiU it.
otherwise, it will Lve and grow a new stinger
to sting you again, if you invite it. If you
want to be sure not to get stung, buy U.b.
savings bonds.
10. There's a Pot of Gold at the End of
the Rainbow. The only pot of gold you'll be
likely to find is the money you earn and
save by your own determination.
11. An Ostrich Hides Its Head in the Sand
at the Approach of Danger. Even an ostrich
has more sense than this. About the only
living creatures who close their eyes to danger
or trouble are hiunan beings who neglect
to provide for the future.
12. Words Will Never Hurt Me. If you
don't pay attention to the words in a lease
or any other business docimient you sign,
you may be hurt in the pocketbook.
13. If You Want Security, You Must Sacrifice
Freedom. The truth is the most worthwhile
security is the kind that gives the
individual increased freedom. Each of us
can add to his owti security by buying U.S.
savings bonds.
OTTAWA
'The Ottawa Theatre Managers Ass'n, at its
general luncheon meeting at the Copacanda
club, received the resignation of Jack
Gibson as secretary. He explained his reason
was pressure of duties in managing the Glebe.
Casey Swedlove. owner of the Linden, was in
the chair . at the Glebe. "Tight Little
Island" was held for a sixth week . . . Donn
B. Stapleton. proprietor of the Centre, and
Terry Lewis, who has the Eastview in suburban
Eastview, attended the special meeting
in Toronto of the Independent Motion Picture
Exhibitors Ass'n of Ontario. Stapleton
spent several days there to check with the
film companies on bookings.
Mrs. Betsy Mosbaugh Mackay, who recently
resigned from the National Film Board, now
is public relations manager for Crawley Films
Ernie Warren of the Elgm
offered a Sunday screening for invited guests
of "All the King's Men" . P. McGuire,
projectionist at the Capitol, was re-elected
president of lATSE Local 257. Others named
William Hartnett of the Regent, business
manager; A. B. Zumar, Capitol, secretarytreasurer:
Sam Ventura, Elgin, sergeant at
arms, and trustees Ed Fields and Lome
Simpson, both of the National Film Board,
and C. Dagenais of the Regent.
Manager Gordon Beavis of the Odeon has
arranged an interesting exhibition of pictures,
books, models and equipment in the art gallery
on the mezzanine floor, which demonstrates
how the children ol Great Britain
work and play. The articles were ilown from
London . Strand, which wa.s opened
here last summer, has been closed for several
weeks but will be reopened after alterations
have been completed . . . Norah McFarlane,
16-year-old daughter of Leslie McFarlane of
the National Film Board, won the S500 first
prize in a story contest conducted by the
magazine Seventeen.
Gene Autry Productions has acquired for
Columbia "The Mad Sheriff of Sanchez."
and Snow Freeze
Trade at Vancouver
VANCOUVER — Another cold week with
heavy snows and transportation delays handicapped
the theatre business. Exhibitors complained
boxoffices took a 40 per Cent dip.
Sophie Tucker at the Cave Supper Club and
"Ice-Cycles" at the Forum both left town
saying, "It shouldn't happen to a dog." "Jolson
Sings Again." at the Orpheum, and "The
Inspector General" at Capitol made the best
showing.
Cap::ol—The Inspector General (WB)
Cmema^Mr. Soft Touch (Col); The Lone
Good
WoU
and His lady (Col) Fair
Orcheum—Jolson Sings Again (Col). 2nd wk....,Good
Paradise—Zamba (EL), Black Shadows (EL) Fair
Plaza and Fraser—Mrs. Milte (UA), 2nd wk Fair
Strand—The Lady Takes a Sailor (WB) Fair
Stale Road House (20th-Fox). plus stage show....Fair
Studic^Lost Boundaries (IFD), 5th wk Good
Vogue Quailel (EL) Fair
Seven Toronto Holdovers
Are Headed by "Delilah'
TORONTO—There were no less than seven
holdovers at the main theatres, headed by a
fifth week of "Samson and Delilah" at the
Victoria. At the Hyland, where an adult film
policy prevails. "The Chiltern Hundreds" also
was good for a fifth week. "Jolson Sings
Again" equaled par in its second week at the
University and Eglinton while "Mrs. Mike"
did likewise at Loew's. The week's principal
opposition was "The Ice Folhes" at the Gardens.
(Average Is 100)
Biltmore—Hudson's Boy (20th-Fox); The Spider
(20th-Fox). reissues 95
H, land—The Chiltern Hundreds (EL), 5th wk 85
Imperial—The Lady Takes a Sailor (WB) 125
Loew's-Mrs. Mike (UA), 2nd wk 100
Oieon and Fairlawn—HoUday Aifoir (RKO) 105
Shecs, Capitol and Nortov/n The Man on the
Eillel Tower (RKO) „ _ 110
Tivoli—The Inspector General (WB), The Reckless
Moment (Col), 2nd wk 90
University and Eglinton—Jolson Sings Again (Col),
2nd wk 100
Uptown Sands of Iwo Jima (Rep), 2nd wk 95
Victoria-Samson and Delilah (Para), 5th wk 100
'Mrs. Mike/ Love Story
Of Mountie, to Debut
NEW YORK—"Mrs. Mike," picturization of
the best-selling novel, with Dick Powell and
Evelyn Keyes in the starring roles, will be
premiered at the Capitol Theatre February 8,
it has been announced by United Artists
which is releasing the film.
A love story of a gentle Boston girl who
married a Canadian Mountie and shares his
life of hardship in the wild northwest, "Mrs.
Mike" will bring to life on the screen the
heartwarming saga of a woman's devotion,
already admired by the 50,000,000 readers of
the Benedict and Nancy Freedman work.
Evelyn Keyes has the most important film
role of her career as the flirtatious citybred
girl whose devjtion and love mold her
into a figure of pioneering courage. Powell
plays the stalwart and resourceful Sergeant
Mike of the Mounted Police, which, in addition
to "getting their man," carved a civilization
out of Canada's northwest wilderness.
"Mrs. Mike" was produced by Samuel Bischoff
and Edward Gross and directed by Louis
King from a screenplay by Alfred Lewis
Levitt and DeWitt Bodeen.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE IN-A-CAR SPEAKERS
and Junction Boxes. For new jobs or replacements
causetJ from theft or vandalism
DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. K^nLMt^Mo'
120
BOXOFFICE :: February 4, 1950

. . . Some
: February
. . Theatre
. . The
. . Jack
VANCOUVER
/^ecil Cameron, who resigned as manager of
the Edison at New Westminster to live in
California, is now assistant manager of the
Studio Theatre in Hollywood .
Mc-
Nicol. manager of the Regent here, has licked
The Sylvia Theatre in Newcastle. Alta.,
owned by Norris Shaw was ruined by fire. It
located in the Drumheller coal mining district
is
The new Famous Players house being
. . .
built at Prince Rupert will be named the
Totem, instead of the Paramount, to honor
native Indians .
giveaways of dinnerware
and silverware in Calgary are not
affected by the law which prevents stores
from giving premiums with purchases. Recent
infringements of the law brought the
matter to official attention.
Ivan Ackery, manager of the Orpheum. was
a winner in 20th-Fox's publicity campaign on
"Father Was a Fullback." covering U.S. and
Canada. Ackery won a $500 savings bond.
This makes the fourth national publicity
prize won by Ackery . 240-seat Wakaw
Theatre at Wakaw. Sask.. was sold by George
Berzowsky to Steve Sryniuck of that town
local showmen believe that producers
are overdoing the making of westerns.
Boxoffice results here show that patrons are
getting tired of the outdoor pictures, big or
little. Theatremen say the public wants more
variety in entertainment.
The Orpheum will offer a stageshow each
Wednesday night for the next eight weeks.
Roy Gordon's Search for Talent show is sponsored
by a local automobile company. The
winner of the contest will receive a Hollywood
trip. The contest has been playing the
Hastings here for the last two years.
Ice
Cream Craze Hits
Australian
Theatres
SYDNEY—The chocolate-coated ice
cream craze has hit Australia with dire
consequences to exhibitors. Theatre furnishings
and the clothing of patrons
have been daubed a sticky brown. Sydney
exhibitors have banned the stuff by
flashing special slides on the screen and
making lobby announcements, saying it
isn't any more welcome than fish, chips
and peanuts. The rest of Australia is following
suit. Efforts of candy stores to
sell the stuff in ordinary paper bags for
purposes of concealment are being foiled.
The National Theatre Supply Co.,
through Al Graham, has come up with a
product said to remove the stain without
leaving a trace, but exhibitors are going
to the root of the trouble. They think
that chewing gum, which can be secreted
successfully behind the bridgework until
its owner wearies of it, is enough to contend
with.
St. John Strand Sale
Is Expected Soon
ST. JOHN—Local trade circles were hoping
for an early settlement of negotiations between
Abe Garson and Odeon circuit and
Fred Gordon and Gerald Spencer and FPC.
for the sale of the Strand Tlieatre here to
Gar?on and Odeon. Garson and his wife
his housing problem. He bought a farm in
the Fraser valley and commutes to Vancouver
daily . . . Max Sheine. the newly appointed
plan to head for Miami Beach soon and the
manager of Eagle Lion, arrived here from tlie
deal is expected to be consummated before
east after a hectic automobile trip through
their departure.
winter weather 3.000 miles from Toronto. He Both Garson and Fred Spencer were in
arrived here in the midst of the worst blizzard
in 50 years.
sales price, to be settled, ranged between
Toronto recently. Trade talk has it that the
$200,000 and $225,000, with Garson shouldering
the financing rather than Odeon.
The sale of the Strand, when completed,
will eliminate construction of a new theatre
BOXOFFICE :
4, 1950
as projected by Garson earlier for a site
about 100 yards east of the Strand.
Theatre Swindler Uses
Simple Trick in Florida
From Southeast Edition
PORT LAUDERDALE, FLA.—A man In a,
powder blue suit employed an amazingly
simple way to steal money at the Sunset
Theatre. The man just asked for $100, got
it in 10 and 20-dollar bills from the 17-
year-old cashier, Beverly Branohaud, on the
pretense that he was taking it upstairs to
the manager, and disappeared.
The unique robbery took place about 8:45
p. m. when the man walked into the theatre
and asked Miss Branchaud where the manager's
office was. He returned once to ask
for more specific directions, and finally located
Manager Roy Williams in his second
floor office. He talked with WilUams for
some 15 minutes, claiming that he was trying
to get a theatre job for his brother-inlaw
who was flying here to join him.
Williams told him no jobs were available.
Then the man walked downstairs to the
cashier's booth. "The manager wants $100,"
he told Miss Branchaud.
The girl counted out the money, three
20s and four 10s and handed it to the thief,
who started back upstairs. Then he turned,
left the theatre and got into a car driven
by an accomplice, to disappear down Las
Olas boulevard.
Miss Branchaud said she didn't realize
anything was wrong until the man got into
the car. The other man, at the wheel, said,
"Let's get out of here," and the cashier
called the manager who summoned policetoo
late.
Williams described the man to police as
about 35 years old, sandy-haired, 5 feet 10
inches, 170 pounds, and wearing a powder
blue suit with brown shoes.
His accomplice was "tall and dark," Miss
Branchaud said, and the cashier described
the car as 1947 or 1948 light brown Plymouth
sedan.
Williams said the "job hunter" was an easy
conversationalist, who mentioned connections
with Universal pictures and described
his present employment with an electrical
contractor here. The thief claimed he lived
in a duplex in the northwest section, where
he would be joined by his brother-in-law.
Miss Branchaud, cashier for only three
weeks, could only say, "It won't happen
again."
RESEARCH BUREAU
for
MODERN THEATRE. PLANNERS
ENROLLMENT FORM FOR FREE INFORMATION
The MODERN THEATRE
PLANNING INSTITUTE
825 Van Brunt Blvd.
Kansas City 1, Mo.
Gentlemen:
2-4-50
Please enroll us in your RESEARCH BUREAU
lo receive inlormation regularly, as released, on
Ihe lollowing subjects for Theatre Planning:
n
Acoustics O Lighting Fixtures
Air Conditioning Q Plumbing Fixtures
D Architectural Service j-j pjojeclors
'Black- Lighting
g pfojeclion Lamps
Building Material
Sealing
Carpels
n Sians and Marquees
Coin Machines
^
Complete Remodelingn S°"nd Equipment
Decorating
Television
Drink Dispensers Theatre Fronts
Drive-in Equipment Vending Equipment
Other
Theatre
Subjects
Seating Capacity
Address
City .
State
Signed
Postoge-poid reply cards for your further convenience
in obtaining information are provided in The MODERN
THEATRE Section, published with the first issue of
each month.
121

. . Rrst
. . The
. . . Mickey
. . . "Jock"
ST.
JOHN
Cneak previews are being presented at the
Capitol in Halifax, largest of the maritime
theatres, with only current day's notice.
They begin after the regular show, about
11:05 p. m. . to introduce bank
nights in St. John is not a theatre, but
the Pythian Castle ballroom, which advertises
one bank night weekly . use of
the Strand here was donated for a second
Sunday afternoon rally of Alcoholics Anonymous,
by Fred Spencer, a total abstainer.
When advance representatives of "The Ice
Cycles" skating revue interviewed Marian
Moran of Kentville. a dentist's office staffer,
she needed no pull to get a tryout date.
She will appear when the show plays the
Halifax Forum in February.
Dime-operated shoeshine machines are to
be installed in restrooms and lobbies of
some maritime theatres. It is a legal question
if the St. John ban on venders would
affect such machines. Indications are that
about 25 maritime theatres are planning the
installations in the next several months.
The shine takes 90 seconds.
Plans to install coin-operated beverage
machines in Halifax theatre lobbies have
been checked temporarily, at least, by a
protest from the Halifax Tobacco Wholesalers
Ass'n. Officers of this organization
went before the finance committee to object
to the proposed rescinding of a city
PD-56
OUAl
CHANNEL
council ban on operation of vending machines
in the city. They claimed that lifting
the ban to cover the drink machines
would be the opening wedge to allow operation
of cigaret and candy venders. The protest
has been referred to the city solicitor.
The city council legislated against the venders
about eight year ago after store operators
objected to venders in theatres.
. . Albert Button
A complete redecorating of the local Regent
is planned next spring and summer by
Manager Herman Kerwin, who will be working
boss on the job. He was a painter before
entering theatre work .
was getting settled in a seat at the local
Strand when a shoe hit something on the
floor. He retrieved a wallet containing $400
and turned it over to the police who located
the owner, an out-of-towner. It was one of
the heaviest cash finds in St. John theatres
in years. Not long ago a boy found
$50 on a seat in the Mayfair.
Wallie Humby, a projectionist at the Mayfair,
and Joe Wedge of the Regent, sister
house, have been working together in their
nonbooth time on electric wiring and fixture
installing jobs . . . Increased num.bers
of hockey games in the Cape Breton and
APC leagues have reacted on the theatre
boxoffices. Schedules for this season call
for more games than ever before. In the
Cape Breton league there is a game every
weeknight. Some of the maritime rinks are
fire traps, but the fire marshals and department
heads ignore this and little or
no enforcement is made of safety regulations,
including smoking. Yet a very close
watch is kept on theatres.
Joe Lieberman and Sam Babb, St. John,
have been negotiating with Rabbi Israel
Frankel, now of Brooklyn, formerly of Dublin,
Ireland, in behalf of Shaarei Zedek synagogue.
Rabbi Frankel talks English with a
brogue and has a command of Gaelic.
Legal action against the Canadian National
railways may develop from loss of films in a
truck fire. At Model Farm, about 15 miles
east of here, a CN truck en route to Moncton
skidded on an icy road, turned over and
caught fire. Negligence is chai-ged because of
failure to ship the films by rail, and there is
said to be a clause in the shipping agreement
necessitating use of rail only. The insurance
on each film is limited to $50. The prints
were en route to theatres in eastern New
Brunswick. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward
Island.
MONTREAL
TTnited Amusement Corp. soon will start adding
another floor to its main office building
on Monkland avenue, it is reported by
Mel Johnson, head of the publicity department.
The ground floor will be entirely devoted
to the advertising department and sign
shop. On the top floor will be offices, a
large screening room and offices of the Confederation
Amusements, which now are on
the ground floor. The intermediate floor will
be occupied by offices to accommodate an increased
staff.
The office of 20th -Fox has been renovated
in pastel colors, apple green and ivory white.
There are two new cubicles for bookers.
Gerry Chernoff, manager, has his own office,
remodeled with glass, as are the bookers'
cubicles. Lou Gillman, Chernoff's secretary,
also is in charge of the PBX system. Jim.
Pearson, salesman, has his office on the
ground floor. Fluorescent lighting was installed
throughout.
George Altman, distributor of "Mom and
Dad" which has completed a nine weeks' run
at the System, said that 95,000 people saw
the show there. The picture moved to the
Kent for an extended run . . . Romeo Goudreau.
Paramount salesman, returned from a
selling trip in the Gatineau valley. Harry
Decker and Johnny Bastien, RKO salesmen,
returned from the north country ... A new
RKO student salesman is Kenneth Snelgrove.
formerly with General Films 16mm in
St. John.
Edgar Hamel, manager of Foto night, was
in St. John on business . . . H. Harnick, general
sales manager for Columbia, Toronto,
spent a week's holiday in the Laurentians
Isman, Montreal manager of Empire-Universal,
attended the company sales
meeting in the Warwick hotel. New York City,
and then proceeded to Toronto on business
Demarbois, manager for Arrow
Films. Toronto, was in Montreal conferring
with Roy Filion, local manager.
Marcel Haran, former manager at the Seville,
now is co-manager with Thomas Orville
Harrigan, at the Strand on St. Catherine
Molly Foreman, manager of
street . . . SARO, is holidaying in Bermuda . . . Stella
Larocque, Empire-Universal stenographer,
will undergo an appendectomy at the Herbert
Reddy hospital.
COSTS USS^
HANDY
. , . cost less than any comparable
ampliiiers. Vet. theatres the world o\ier
use and acclaim these units as out*
standinE tor quality of performanct
and trouble-free service. Before you
buy, compare Royal Soundmaster 'with
any unit. You'll agree it's your best
buy . . . for less.
J. M. Rice & Company
202 Canada Building
Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada
Complete Theatre Equipment & Supplies

^^peration
FEBRUARY A. 1950

VAo
.^erP'^^s^eenV
.aV.on«'>^^*
op
P.^'^-';sS^'^''
For more complete details
—see your independent RCA
Theatre Supply Dealer.
THEATRE EQUIRMEMT
RADIO CORPORATION of AMERICA
EMOINEERING PRODUCTS DERARTMEMT. CAMOEM.M.J.
In Canada: RCA VICTOR Company Limited, Montreal

: February
I
I I
Utility lamp;
|
I I
Strong
]
Strong
I
Mighty
1
Strong
j
Mogul
STRONG MIGHTY 90
75 to 130 Ampere Reflector Arc Lamp with Exclusive Lightronic Automatic Focus Control
Forced air cooled feed mechanism.
Low operating temperatures.
Bi-Metal Lightronic Tube controls
both carbon feed motors. Simple feed
rate adjustment.
Big 16V^-inch reflector matches
high speed f 1.9 lens.
Air stream stabilization of arc.
Unit construction permits instant
removal of major components.
Rugged burner mechanism.
Complete combustion of black soot.
White deposit on reflector prevented.
THE STRONG ELECTRIC CORPORATION
1 1 City Park Avenue TOLEDO 2, OHIO
1 I
I |
Arc Spotlomps;
|
would like o demonstrolion of the Strong Mighty "90" in my theatre,
without cost or obligation.
Pleote tend free literature on the "90"; Lamp;
Rectifiers;
Reflectors.
Name
Cily and Slol*
BOXOFFICE :
4, 1950

SEE THIS
TCOIOR
EFREEI
,H6 B"'""^ ewes
A"
Tḣhis fifteen - minute 35 mm color
movie, "Carbon Arc Projection", took
two years to produce . . . cost S80,000
. . . and has been called the finest thing
of its kind ever made. Tells you the
inside story of the what, why and how
of the "National" High Intensity Carbon
Arc. Shows you why this type of
carbon arc gives finer screen visibility,
better color balance, and keeps patrons
coming back to your theatre. A
vivid, fast moving show. Every theatre
manager and his staff should see it.
For bookings, write to NATIONAL CARBON
DIVISION, Union Carbide and Carbon Corporation,
P. O. Box 6087, Cleveland, Ohio.
The ttrm "National" is a registered trade-mart of
NATIONAL CARBON DIVISION
UNION CARBIDE AND CARBON CORPORATION
[!H3
30 East 42od Street, New York 17. N. Y.
District Sales Offices: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas,
Kansas City, New York, Pittsburgh, San Francisco
,t,v-NOl YOB
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: February
SELLING
COMPARE AND YOU'LL SEE WHY
ARE BY FAR THE MOST POPULAR • MANY EXCLUSIVE FEATURES MAKE IT SO-
WAGNER PLASTIC LETTERS. More colorful. Shock-proof. The only letters that are odjustable
from easy slide to hurricane-proof. The only plastic letters that can be stacked without
warping. 5 colors: Red, green, blue, amber and black. 5 sizes: 4", 6", 8", 10", 17".
WAGNER ALUMINUM LETTERS. The world's largest range of sizes, styles and colors. Potented
slotted method of mounting prevents freezing to sign.
WAGNER FRAMES. Stronger, single panels can be built in larger sizes than others. Vitally
important with drive-ins. More economical to service. Lamps, neon and glass replaced in any section
without disturbing other portions and WITHOUT REMOVING FRAMES — a Wagner exclusive.
Wagner Letters and Frames at the world's
second largest drive-in.
USE COUPON
to request catalog on
EFFECTIVE
SHOW-SELLING
EQUIPMENT
WAGNER SIGN SERVICE, INC.
218 S. Hoync Avenue, Chicago 12, III.
Name
Please send BIG free catalog on Wagner theatre dii
play equipment, the largest line in the world.
Theatre «
Street ,
City
& State..
BOXOFFICE
:
4. 1950

.^^Jne^ DRIVE-IN THEATRE EQUIPMENT
M^^ of PROVEN WORLD-WIDE ACCEPTANCE
DIT-MCO In-Car
SPEAKERS
The SENIOR: Most advanced
electronic and mechanical design.
The only speaker made
using "L" pad volume control,
especiolly manufactured for the
line transformer in this set. The
only transformer with 10 taps
to match any line impedance
needed, plus secondary windings
so the other speaker is
With handle (a
vn) at slight extra cost
not affected should one foil.
Guaranteed waterproof.
The JUNIOR: For the small
drive-in theatre desiring a less
expensive speaker. Unexcelled
at similar price. No sacrifice
in quality or fidelity of tone,
hlousing, workmanship and materials
all comparable to
"Senior."
STANDEE: For coverage of your playground and
walk-in patrons' seating, for rear romps, for trucks
and for over-flow crowds. Cast aluminum housing,
6" X 9", waterproof speaker, withstands weather
and abuse. Brass-Shaft wire wound "L" pad volume
control. Con be pre-set to any desired volume,
tomper-proof. The ideol speaker for the purpose.
All Models Fit 1 V2" or 2" Pipe
DIT-MCO Pre-Fabricated Steel SCREEN TOWERS
Four Types: Girder, Truss, Beam and Rigid Frame
The Rigid Frame Type provides housing facilities in the base which con
be used for offices, storage, living quarters or concessions. All DIT-MCO
towers designed and built in strict conformance to American Institute of
Steel Construction specifications, will resist winds of 30 lb. per sq. ft., equal
to a 90 mph gale. Get prices and particulars on DIT-MCO towers before
you buy — for maximum beauty, strength, permanence and utility!
Patented Rust-Proofed Pre-Fab Steel SCREEN FACING
Bolts together ond bolts to screen tower frame. Big sovings in time and
lobor . . . and maintenance! Specially treated to grip paint. Permanent freedom
from cracks, open seams, warpage, dark areas and moisture streaks.
COMBINATION RAMP IDENTIFICATION
and DRIVEWAY FLOODLIGHT
Answers your ramp lighting problems! Double- "
strength glass panels in heavy cost aluminum case.
Romp numbers and "FULL" letters are fused on
glass in ceramic enamel; won't fade or peel. Lower
section contains floodlight, spreading a beam
groundward to light romp entrance avoiding confusion
and accidents.
ENTRANCE

FEBRUARY 4, 1950
Vol. XVII No. 2
o n t n t
Promoting Profits With Playgrounds H. f. Reves 8
Unwrapping a Drive-ln 11
Surface Savings for Drive-Ins Jo/>n h. Donaldson 12
Dining Lounge Featured at Jacksonville Twins Harry Hart 14
Prospects of a Projectionist in a Drive-in Booth Groy Barker 20
Popcorn Problems and Profits at the Drive-in H. F. Reves 27
Cost Studies Prove the Economy of Paper Cups 35
The International Picture 38
Brilliant Decor in Texas Theatre 40
The Grand Touch in Texas 42
Announce New Simplex Projector Mechanism 46
DEPARTMENTS
Refreshment Service 27 Literature
Readers' Service Bureau 51
New Equipment and
Developments
65
About People and Product 66
59 Advertising Index 52
ON THE COVER
A new concept of the ultra-smart drive-in theatre came into
being with the last operating season. Added services and increased
luxury of design and appointment of refreshment
service booths, play areas and screen towers became the order
of the day.
One of the most luxurious of the seaso7i's new theatres is the
beautiful Cedar Volley Drive-In built by the Lam Amusement
Co. near Rome, Ga.
The cover photo shows the Cedar Valley screen tower at night
with the tasteful floodlighting and neon name sign reflected
in one of two ornamental lakes which flank entrance drives to
the theatre.
w,
'ITH the advent of the drivein
theatre a few short years ago, a
large percentage of those hardy promoters
who launched such ventures
succeeded because of the novelty of
the medium, if for no other reason.
As competition increased, progressive
operators learned the "whys" and
"wherefores" of successful drive-in theatre
operation through extensive trial
and error.
As we enter the 1950 operating season
terrific strides are evident. The experiments
of two seasons back are the
established practice of today.
With the creation of improved operating
plans, the entrance of a newcomer
to the field becomes proportionately
hazardous unless he has the benefit
of techniques developed by the industry's
pioneers. Keeping in mind the
newcomer, and the exhibitor who even
now is considering the establishment
of a drive-in, this issue of the Modern
Theatre seeks to present the latest developments
in several fields of drive-in
operation.
Admittedly, several of these plans
are still in the testing stage. After all,
it is only within the past two operating
seasons that the great majority of open
air theatres were built, and much remains
to be learned.
As far as the saturation point for
new construction is concerned, experts
come up with several figures but all
agree the time is more than a season or
two away.
As competition becomes keener,
techniques will be improved by the aggressive
exhibitors to assure getting
their share of the business.
Already a number of progressive exhibitors
have come forth with solid
manifestations of showmanship of an
old-fashioned kind in promoting their
drive-ins. In the long run this is the
most solid base upon which any entertainment
venture can be built.
KENNETH HUDNALL. Managing Editor HERBERT ROUSH. Sales Manager
Published 'he nrst Saturday o: each month by Associated Pubhcations and includec as a
section editions oi BOXOFFICE Editorial or general business correspondence relating
to The MODERN TKEAlRf. in all
section should be addressed to the Publisher. 625 i/ar.
Brunt Blvd , Kansas City 1. Mo. Eastern Representatives: A I. Stocker and Ralph F.
Plaza. New York 20, N Y. Central Represenlcrlives: Ewing Hutchison
Scholbe 9 Rockefeller
and E. E. Yeck, Room 1478 Pure Oil Bldg.. 35 E. Wacker Dr., Chicago. 111. Western
Represenlalive Bob Wettstein. 672 So Lafayette Park Place. Los Angeles. Calil

now
PROMOTING
PROFITS
PLAYGROUNDS
^B'
X HE STARTLING GROWTH Of driVe-ln
theatres has not been accomplished without
keen rivali^y from competitive entertainment
attractions, and early in the game
drive-in operators wisely turned to the
younger generation as the important people
to attract to their theatres. They turned
to the very youngest generation, in fact,
with the installation of many special gimmicks
to make each visit to the drive-in a
memorable one. Rides and amusement devices
of various sorts have been developed
for drive-ins clear across the counti-y as an
additional inducement to make youngsters
want to come back.
The psychology of such a program is
sound, for, although diive-ins are necessarily
dependent upon adult patronage, attendance
may be substantially increased if
the younger members of the family can be
made eager "patrons."
The ability of the drive-in to provide for
the children is an outstanding reason for
its ability to compete with regular theatres.
Since the small fry can be brought
to the drive-in in the family jalopy or
limousine at little added cost, the need for
a babysitter is eliminated.
If the youngsters' visit to the drive-in can
be made happy and pleasant, they become
excellent advertising agents whose parents
are prone to indulge a request which costs
so little and. at the same time, provides
an evening's adult entertainment also. It
has been proved that it is during this
period of a child's life that he exerts the
greatest influence on family spending.
A great appeal of the drive-in to adults
This play area is located immediately in front of the screen tower of Walter Reade's Woodbridge
Drive-In at Woodbridge, N. J. Not only the children are cared for with ponies, slides and swings,
but their elders are also invited to enjoy the concrete dance floor, shuffleboard and horseshoe
pits. Benches are provided so that parents may keep an eye on children at play.
is that it relieves them of the immediate
responsibility of caring for the youngsters
during a part of the show, at least. For
this reason they are likely to come early
in order to let the children play before it
really gets dark so the "little patrons" will
be tired out and ready to rest peacefully
while their elders watch the show.
editor's
note
With this orticles H. F. Reves, Modern Theatre
correspondent in Detroit, begins o twopart
series of articles on the exploitation of
playgrounds at drive-in theatres. In this article
he deals exclusively with the selection, use ar^d
promotion of playground equipment for children.
In the second article, which will appear in the
March issue of the Modern Theatre, Reves will
cover the so-called "rides" or motorized entertainment
features for drive-in use.
Reves' information was gained through the
assistance of several of the country's outstanding
equipment manufacturers.
Of course children can continue playing
through the show if proper layout of the
recreation center is provided. Here the
family can look forward to a pleasant evening
without restless children to detract
from the motion picture.
The ride devices used by drive-in operators
to help make their operations attractive
to children are usually placed near
the front of the theatre, sometimes outside
the screen tower where they help draw
attention and interest from passing motorists.
As a rule playgrounds are placed
within the point of admission so that use
can be restricted to patrons. Wliile the
drive-in theatre cannot attempt to compete
with public parks in affording playgrounds,
a few simple playground-type devices
available to passing motorists might
induce an occasional non-patron to tarry
long enough to become a customer.
A study of actual drive-in practice shows
two sharply divergent lines of planning and
operation between recreation or playground-type
equipment and the more elaborate
"rides" as amusement park operatore
understand them. Because they are
certainly more spectacular and require a
larger investment with greater operating
attention, the latter have attracted greater
attention.
Drive-In Kiddylands, however, began
with simple playground installations a few
years ago and have blossomed out to include
complete miniature children's amusement
parks in some cases.
From available information, it appears
that the first of these installations were at
drive-ins in the southwest. One authority
in the industry credits Underwood and Ezell
Claude Ezell and Associates i with in-
8 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

stalling the first such playground at a
drive-in theatre in Texas nine years ago.
In tire eastern part of tlie counti-y credit
for priority appears to belong to the West
Side Drive-In in Detroit, where a pullaway
meri-y-go-round was installed in 1943. This
policy of building patronage by providing
added inducement for the youngsters was
well started before the drive-in construction
boom got under way.
The first year's experiment in Detroit
proved successful and the following season
an area 100 feet square was laid out to include
swings, seesaws, slides, mountain
climbers and other devices. In addition,
similar equipment was installed in nine
other theatres around the country which
were operated by the same owners.
Installation and maintenance costs are
low for playground equipment compared
with full-scale ride installations. There is
no question of charging for the use of these
devices which are free for the enjoyment of
the young patrons. There can be no question
but that they provide a sound reason
for the average youngster to want to come
to the show and to ask daddy to "Take me
to the drive-in!"
HEAVY DUTY EQUIP.MENT BEST
A strong word of caution is due the exhibitor
who may choose inexpensive playground
equipment because it represents a
smaller investment. It will help to bring
the youngsters in at first, but it may prove
an expensive choice before long!
The familiar lower-cost backyard play
equipment is not adequate for the constant
heavy wear of daily drive-in use. The standards
of construction differ, even though
both may be made by the same reliable
company. Backyard equipment is designed
for use by the few youngsters in a family
and their little friends in the neighborhood.
Public or drive-in playground equipment is
necessarily of much sturdier construction to
meet the requirements of constantly changing
patronage including youngsters who
may be careless of someone else's property.
This equipment must be strong enough to
take the abuse of a large crowd of lively
youngsters.
Selection of equipment by experienced
playground purchasing agents in municipal
or school offices is good recommendation of
the quality of any device. Certainly the
drive-in operator should not follow loo
closely the pattern of playground equipment
in his local municipal parks, but they
can certainly be a guide.
In selecting playground equipment for
the drive-in, it is wise to strike a balance
between devices installed in local city parks
and new equipment. The exhibitor can
capitalize on a child's familiarity with some
items to gain his confidence, but there
should also be new equipment, unique to
the drive-in playground, which will bring
can be a guide.
WIDE SELECTION AVAILABLE
A wide selection of equipment is available
to the exhibitor and his choice of individual
devices will depend largely upon the
scale of the installation he is planning.
The playground site must be carefully
chosen with reference to the rest of the
elements on the drive-in grounds. Usually
there is plenty of space available and this
is not a problem. An area of 10,000 square
feet is ample space for the typical playground
for a city drive-in of 750 to 1,000-
car capacity. The playground should be so
located that children can be protected from
the hazards of ordinary drive-in operation.
Parents must be able to feel that their children
are safe while playing, for there is
no
pleasure in keeping one eye on the children
while ti-ying to enjoy the show with the
other. Fencing or close hedging which can
keep the children from darting into traffic
is desirable. Often this can be worked into
the landscaping of the grounds or the
structures themselves. Regular exits should
be carefully guarded.
In some drive-ins the children's playground
is just in front of the screen with
ample space for chairs to accommodate
parents who want to watch the show and
still keep close to the children. There will
always be cases where older people can be
reassured only by keeping an eye on their
young charges. This seating makes it un-
—Game-Time Recreational Equipment photo
Included in a list of basic playground equipment
for the drive-in, slides always provide
youngsters with a thrill and are an example of
a type of equipment for which children wilt
stand in
line.
necessary for them to be unhappy in their
cars wondering how the children are faring.
Because of the prevalence of in-car
speakers, such a location has less disadvantages
than would be expected. The
noise of children at play is not likely to disturb
patrons beyond the first ramp, since
will tend to be dissipated in the open air
it
and overcome by the location of speakers
in cars. However, there is a possibility that
(Continued on next pagei
Swings, also standard equipment for a playground, are universal favorites
with children. The "smaller fry" love nothing better than the novelty of sliding
down an elephant's trunk.
—Hill
Playground Equipment photo
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950

.^
r^^. ^ ..;"^
^ m
-.. : i ;- J ;;me-Time Recrealional Equipment photo
This pullaway merry-go-round at the West Side Driye-ln Theatre in Detroit, is always crowded.
Of course, one big advantage of such equipment is its ability to accommodate a large number of
young customers at one time. A uniformed attendant, as pictured at the right, is wise insurance
for the drive-in operator. This merry-qoround, in operation since 1943, is believed to be part of the
first playground installation at any drive-in in the east.
the playground can be so unfortunately
positioned that the screen may serve as a
sort of echo chamber to carry the children's
voices back into the ramp area. A little
acoustical planning can usually eliminate
this possibility.
The playgrounds, in contrast to the location
of power rides, are often placed
within the theatre area and are not usually
visible from the highway. There is some
loss of eye-appeal in this arrangement,
since the sight of the youngsters playing
would naturally attract the attention of
other children in passing cars and would
suggest to the parents the desirability of
patronizing this theatre for the sake of
their children. However, the playground is
normally restricted to the use of children
whose families have already purchased
tickets and would not want them playing
outside the theatre. Perhaps a future design
will allow the playground to be visible
from the road while the screen itself is
duly protected from "free patrons."
Locating the playground either near or
outside the entrance also makes it possible
for the exhibitor to offer the grounds for
the free use of youngsters of the community
during the day in the hours before showtime.
This helps build good will at vei-y
little cost, but must be carefully watched
so that there is no resentment when the
grounds are closed to the non-paying guests
at showtime,
VARIETY ESSENTIAL
A variety of attractions is essential to
playground success, for experience indicates
that one or two types of devices are inadequate
to keep the children amused during a
four-hour show period, and inadequate to
accommodate the normal number of youngsters
at the theatre, not to mention the
diversity of interest among children of
various ages. Regardless of how favored a
particular item may be, children demand a
periodic change. This is an outstanding
advantage the playground has over the
more expensive power ride installations.
Devices that can provide active enjoyment
for a sizeable number of children at
the same time are basic choices. These include
the pullaway meri-y-go-round and
similar group rides which will take care of
the crowds the exhibitor hopes will result
from a playground installation.
Having taken care of "group" playground
equipment, be sui-e to select some devices
for individual enjoyment. Seesaws, slides
and swings are said to be the basic choices
in this field, with a long list of alternatives
for variety, A number of manufacturers
offer attractively illustrated catalogs which
provide ample choice for the theatre owner.
An objection to individual-use rides, such
as swings, is that only a limited number of
children can be accommodated. This means
that enough of these units must be installed
to take care of a reasonable number of
youngsters. However, with a variety of devices
to intrigue their interest, unusually
heavy demand for swings can usually be
diverted to some other device without too
great difficulty. Youngsters will line up
for turns on the popular limited-capacity
units. Novelty devices with a juvenile motif
have a definite place in planning the drivein
playground, A train with cars designed
to resemble stoi-ybook characters can be
quite popular. Of outstanding popularity
in one manufacturer's line is a slide designed
in the shape of an elephant.
Playground devices which afford plenty
of healthful exercise tend to have a quieting
effect on children who will be ready to rest
or sleep in cars without disturbing the rest
of the family.
The average youngster is familiar with
the general types of equipment that he will
find in the theatre playground. This, of
course, means that he knows how to use
them and reduces the possibility of accidents
arising from efforts to get acquainted.
This does not mean that only familiar types
of equipment should be installed.
The age of the children who will use the
playground is an important factor in the
selection of equipment. Since the exhibitor
will usually have children of all ages, a balanced
installation to provide for youngsters
from nursery to teen-age is the usual goal.
However, it should be noted that the teenagers
are less desirable patrons of the playground
since they are usually old enough to
sit and watch the picture. Their presence
in a group with the little tots creates additional
supervisory problems. After all, the
primai-y aim of the drive-in is to care for
the smaller children as a service to their
elders.
Minimum units for a small playground
include six pieces of equipment: a small
slide, men-y-go-round, hobby horse or kindergarten
swing set, standard six swing
set and seesaw unit. Although many
changes, additions and substitutions can
be made to fit local conditions, the variety
should be no less extensive. One manufacturer
reports that the average drive-in investment
for playground equipment is $530.
In selecting equipment it is wise to choose
ball-bearing swing hangers and stainless
steel slides of protected joint design and
welded construction to prevent injury to
children. A study of playgrounds in operation
will bring out the importance of these
specifications.
SEGREGATE SMALLER CHILDREN
A separate section of the playground
should be reserved for the smaller tots. All
playground experience indicates that widely
separated age groups on the grounds
cause problems.
While most of these problems
can be solved by reasonable supervision,
some special protection is required for
the smallest patrons who are probably the
most important in planning the theatre
playground. A typical report is that older
boys seem to take delight in teasing the
smaller youngsters, especially the little girls,
by tilting or upsetting chair swings. This
can be eliminated by bolting swings into a
solid concrete base. Such a precaution
should be observed wherever recommended
by the manufacturer of any device, as protection
against the possibility of accidental
tipping due to overloading.
The little children get along better by
themselves, as anyone familiar with children
has observed. Devices which are designed
for their use should be kept away
from equipment used by older children.
This practice also serves to keep younger
children off slides or other devices that are
too big for them.
Some operators feel that a fuUtime supervisor
for a playground of this type is unnecessary.
Even in such instances the manager
or a responsible assistant should be
detailed to keep a close eye upon the section.
There is always the possibility of
minor injui-y and juvenile "show-offs" who
may make things miserable for the younger
children if not watched. Little disputes will
naturally arise between the youngsters, and
(Continued on page 16)
10
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: February
1
UNWRAPPING
A DRIVE-IN
The Experience of One Midwest
Exhibitor in Opening for Spring
'T.HE EASE AND SPEED With whiCh
a drive-in theatre can be opened in the
spring depends, to a large extent, on the
method in which it was winterized the preceding
fall and upon the preventive maintenance
that is followed during the closed
season," says Jack Braunagel, head of drivein
theatres for Commonwealth Amusement
Co. Glancing out of his Kansas City
office window at a scene of ice and snow
recently he remarked that, if it were necessary,
the firm's nearby Riverside Drive-In
could be open for business that evening.
To explain the chain's system of winter
maintenance and spring opening, Phil
Blakey, manager of the Riverside, produced
a legal-sized mimeographed report sheet
which must be submitted each week of the
closed season to the district office by the
manager of each of Commonwealth's drivein
theatres.
CHECK SHEET COVERS DETAILS
"Before instituting the check sheet,"
Blakey explained, "it was the natural thing
for the manager to make his weekly trip
to the theatre, drive through and in one
quick glance decide that everything looked
all right. With the check sheet, he must
actually inspect certain spots known to be
danger points," Blakey pointed out, adding
that minor repairs made when small damage
is discovered have proved a great economy
over major overhauling in the spring.
The check sheet used by Commonwealth
managers includes 15 points which cover
* Any irregularities of the past week.
* Condition of tubes in neon signs
* Damage which may have been done to
entrance roads and the extent of repairs
which have been ordered
• Condition of the landscaping
•
Condition of drainage ditches around
field and whether or not it was necessary
to clear them
• Presence of any erosion around fence
posts or bases
•
Rust or deterioration of speakers
*
Possible accumulation of standing
water in ramp areas
BOXOFFICE :
4. 1950
* Condition of screen tower and date
of the manager's last inspection of
the top of the tower
* Deterioration of paint on screen area
* Presence of rodents in booths or restrooms
and general condition of buildings,
both inside and out
* Condition of concession stand
* Inspection of the office building and
its roof
* Listing of any extra duties assigned
the watchman during the week
A final point allows room for any comments
the manager may care to make.
By following this regular procedure during
winter months, the task of preparing
theatres for spring opening need start only
three weeks before opening night, Blakey
says.
One of the first problems to be met
when managers report for duty three weeks
before opening, is to recruit adequate personnel
for the season. As in the case of
most chains, key employes of the Commonwealth
drive-ins are either kept on the
pay roll during closed season in some other
capacity or return regularly in the spring
to resume their regular duties. Between 20
and 35 employes are usually needed at the
beginning of the season depending on the
theatre's size, Blakey says, with increases
to as much as 50 or 55 at the height of
warm weather in the larger drive-ins.
Prior to opening night, which is usually
about April 1 through the middle west,
every feature of the theatre is inspected
and rendered bright and shining.
PAINT SCREEN IN JUNE
Although the screen area itself is included
in this inspection, it is not painted
until after the first of June unless the
surface is so badly cracked as to render
projection decidedly inferior. This policy
is followed, Blakey says, in order to avoid
painting the area during the rainy spring
season when the tower may still contain
moisture and when severe rain storms are
quite likely to drench the freshly painted
area. So far screens have always been in
good enough condition to allow tliis delay.
Concession stands are scrubbed from top
to bottom and painted in order to have
them spotless and shining on opening
night. Restrooms are inspected, painted
and scrubbed and all plumbing fixtures,
connections and septic tanks are carefully
checked.
In the projection booth, little actually
needs to be done as is evidenced by
Braunagel's statement that the theatre
could operate on very short notice.
BOOTH EQUIPMENT LEFT IN PLACE
In the early days of the drive-in, all
equipment was removed from the booth
and stored for the winter. After a season
or two. Commonwealth executives began
to wonder whether they might not be risking
more damage in the annual transfer
than they would by leaving the equipment
on location and so pioneered the plan of
leaving projectors and amplifiers in place.
Booths are carefully boarded up, machines
are thoroughly greased and shrouded, and
electric heaters are kept in the booth during
winter months. In some cases only
the bulbs from heat lamps are used to
raise temperatures in booths during winter.
Experience has proved these bulbs are
good for 1.000 hours, or approximately one
month, of constant service. All that is
necessary to start projectors rolling in the
spring is to uncover them, remove the winter
oil film and lubricate them for operation.
A week before opening, all speakers are
checked and repaired as necessary. Last
winter the speakers at all the chain's theatres
were hooded and left on the posts.
Finding the only appreciable damage to
be from rust and moisture condensation
under the hoods, the speakers were left on
the posts completely exposed this season.
So far no damage has been detected. If
experience in the spring proves this technique
acceptable, a lot of time and expense
has been saved. This practice is fol-
( Continued on page 17

SURFACE SAVINGS
FOR DRIVE-INS
New Treatment Affords Inexpensive
Coating for Natural Soil Surface
w ITH THE ESTABLISHMENT Of COUntless
military bases in the southwest part of
the counti-y during the war, many large
areas of sagebrush and other scrub growth
were leveled and graded. Within a short
time these surfaces produced clouds of dust,
excessive maintenance costs and considerable
nuisance in both their dry and muddy
state.
To combat this curse, technical research
produced a liquid treatment intended
originally to do no moi-e than settle
dust. In postwar application the product
has proved also to offer waterproofing,
drainage and erosion protection to all sorts
by JOHN A. DONALDSON"
of raw earth surfaces.
The advantage of such a product to the
drive-in owner is apparent. Not only can
he completely surface an outdoor theatre
in a day or two at a substantial saving
over ordinary methods, but he can also
stabilize an area through a season or two
of use so that if he later wishes to add
asphaltic surfacing, this cost is greatly
reduced by application to a well-compacted,
erosion-free earthen base.
Differing in principle from previous surfacing
methods, the application of Dustrol
creates a flexible bond for particles of dirt
that resists wind and washing and yet never
forms a brittle crust to be broken up by
traffic and use.
Dustrol, a controlled product of one
Kansas refinei-y of the Socony Vacuum Oil
Co., functions by penetrating the soil and
then "curing" to a heavy, effective base.
This base coats soil particles to keep them
from becoming dust and at the same time
binds them to a loose consistency which
resists eroding action of both wind and
water. Because of properties peculiar to
Dustrol, the surface will not become muddy
nor will it adhere to shoes or clothing after
thorough curing.
Dustrol does not require unusual equipment
for the treatment of drive-in theatres,
nor does it require long periods of
time for proper construction. Under satisfactory
weather conditions the treatment
may be made in not more than two or
three days, the time of course, depending
on the size area to be treated. It can
usually be used 24 hours after the treatment
is completed.
Since the surface remains flexible, traffic
does not cut through to poorly compacted
spots in the base as it will through
a rigid surface. Tlie type of wear, traffic
intensity, drainage and soil characteristics
determine the quantity of Dustrol needed.
As the first step, the entire area to be
treated is brought to grade. Proper drainage
is essential to the success of any treatment.
Experience in servicing three driveins
in Oklahoma and Texas in the late summer
of last year indicate a minimum grade
of 1 per cent is almost necessary for proper
run-off. The area is rolled thoroughly to
consolidate the soil.
The second step consists of dragging the
area with a section of link fencing to level
out small depressions and to break up the
larger clods. In the case of loose surface
soil or graded areas where dirt is not well
compacted, it is wise to water the surface
and consolidate it with the base by rolling
before the Dustrol is applied.
Application of Dustrol is simple. The most
economical and satisfactory method of
applying Dustrol for drive-in treatments
is to use a regular highway-type pressure
distributor. Skilled operators can apply the
Dustrol quite close to the line of speaker
posts reducing the amount of localized hand
treating necessary to completely cover the
entire area. This latter is necessai-y to prevent
infiltration of surface water into the
base.
In order to give additional surface
strength to the area at the rear of each
ramp where wheels are normally spun in
starting up, and to supply deeper penetration
along ramp valleys where most
water drainage will occur, a strip 12 to
14 feet wide should receive three-fourths
of a gallon per square yard where the
balance of the ramp area will need only
a half gallon per square yard. All entrance
and exit roadways should receive the
heavier treatment.
Since temperatures of both ground and
liquid affect the speed and depth of penetration,
Dustrol should be applied at a
temperature of 160 to 170 degrees F in
outdoor conditions not much less than 75
degrees. Penetration is complete from
within three or four minutes to an hour
'Service Engineer, Socony Vacuum Oil Co.
'Continued on page 18
12
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

!
SPEAKERS defy woist weather!
Peak economy and low maintenance
for Drive-in
Theatres!
GENERAL ELECTRIC zinc- finish,
in-car speakers are
treated to withstand extremes
of heat and humidity that rust
and corrode most speakers in
a matter of hours
When you replace, specify
General Electric speakersdesigned
to give superior performance
in rain, summer heat,
frost and sleet!
HERE'S WHERE QUALITY TELLS! You are
looking at the toughest test to which loudspeakers
can be subjected!
On the rack you
see a G-E Drive-in Speaker and 4 new speakers
of other makes. In the closed vapor chamber,
continuous salt fog is sprayed on all the
speakers. Why salt? Because it accelerates
metal corrosion faster than any other chemical
agent. At the completion of this grueling test,
the famous G-E Aluminum Voice Coil was in
perfect condition! Protected by a zincplate
and chromate coating, the General Electric
Speaker resists corrosion, or even tarnish,
long past the point at which metal usually
begins to rust and peel!
GENERAL^ELECTRIC
Full details on General
Electric speakers are yours for
the asking. Mail the coupon
below for complete information
and your free G-E Voice
Coil in Humidity Test Package'
THE HEART OF THE SPEAKER!
The base of this coil is made of treated aluminum.
No paper, no cork, no fabric to rot
or warp. Extremes of temperature do not affect
its operation. All G-E Speakers have
this aluminum base coil— an important consideration
for drive-in theatre operators.
fRBB G-E VOICE COIL!
- T
General Electric Company, Section 3620 I
Electronics Park
Syracuse, New York
I
Send me my free G-E Voice Coil in Humidity Test package.
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY STATE |
BOXOFFICE
: : February 4. 1950
13

y
Dining
Lounge Featured
At Jacksonville
Twins'
-Dby
HARRY HART
Exhibitor Adds Hospitalify to Showmanship
In
Exploiting Florida Twin-Screen Drive-In
X HE Normandy twins in Jacksonville.
Fla., are not children but a twin
drive-in theatre with two identical screens
and identical programs. One show starts 20
minutes after the other since one screen
faces west and the other east . . . Siamese,
I might say, as one tower serves both theatres.
The tower is 651/2 feet high with
screen surfaces 42x54 feet. The outdoor
twins are located on Post street and Normandy
boulevard in an area known to
most Jacksonians as Murray Hill.
The huge operation was shown to me in
pictures and then I was escorted around
it by those two able .showmen. C. H. Deaver,
manager, and J. M. Millsap, assistant manager,
until I was tired. The situation handles
1.200 cars with ramps 34 feet apart.
Driveways are paved and the ramps sodded
with Bermuda and St. Augustine grasses.
ing of each theatre at the rear of the ramp
area. Each dining room will accommodate
2i20 patrons, either from cars or walk- in.
This added seating increases the theatre's
capacity to 1,640 patrons.
The stairways leading to the Din-A-Peek
are kept spotlessly clean and the restrooms
are shining and spotless, a joy to behold.
The neatness of the theatre catches the
eye from the time you enter the boxoffice
entrance where towering palm fronds wave
a welcome and the impression is furthered
as you drive by the office where the traffic
lanes divide to the west or east theatre
under the guidance of an experienced
director of traffic.
To the rear of the concession stand is
the children's playground equipped with
ponies, burros, several rides, swings, slides
and a miniature streamliner train that carries
48 children around a half-mile track.
The rides are free but tickets, free ones
too, must be obtained at the concession
stand thereby permitting junior a chance
to see the huge display of popcorn and
candy as well as the family-sized soft drink
containers with four straws that hold 20
ounces of your favorite beverage. What
child could resist? What parent could refuse?
The impression of size is further emphasized
. the high wings running out
from the screen tower. The lawn in front
of the office is well kept and provides a
contrast of green against the red walled
wings. A somewhat unusual feature is that
there is no fence around the situation.
Of interest to feminine patrons is the
The drive-in is located on a 35-acre site
with a four-lane entrance and four separate
exit lanes spilling traffic onto side
streets to avoid emptying traffic directly
onto main thoroughfares.
A palm tree containing a green light
stands majestically at the end of each ramp
and gives a moonglow effect that adds to
the impression of the hugeness of the
theatre.
A unique attraction is the Din-A-Peek
service where, on collapsible table-chairs,
patrons may enjoy anything from a short
snack to a full meal while watching the
program. Enclosed by jalousies, the Din-A-
Peek is located atop the refreshment build-
Located atop the refreshment buildings of each dri
mandy patrons may sit at table-chairs and enjoy c
e-in are the Din-A-Peek lounges where Norsnack
or a full dinner.
14
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

maid in attendance in the ladies' lounge
at all times. Mirrors form a V shape all
around the lounge. Concession attendants
will warm the baby's bottle and perform
other courtesies which you would not expect
in the average drive-in.
Double features are the rule and not the
exception on the so-called slow nights of
the week. To help fill the theatre early,
patrons are given bargain rates during the
first hour after the boxoffice opens and
are entertained by music and announcements
of forthcoming shows and concession
commercials which have been recorded on
wire during the day.
The theatre features a kiddy matinee on
weekends consisting of a 30-minute cartoon
which precedes the regular feature
and is not repeated. This also helps to
fill the house early on Friday, Saturday
and Sunday. Also on weekends a hillbilly
band performs before show time in front
of the concession stands.
No concession solicitation is permitted
among the cars at any time. When the
theatre was first
opened, concession
carts pulled by the
burros were tried and
discontinued.
The screen tower is
braced with beams of
steel and is held b'y
cables to withstand a
sustained wind velocity
of 100 miles per
hour. An extra stress
cable which can be
installed in a few
minutes is provided
Towering palms at the
end of each ramp support
soft qreen lights
whch shed n "moonlight"
effect on the entire
ramp area but du
not distract from the
picture on the screen.
at each end and in
the center of the
tower to withstand
gusts to 150 miles an
hour if the need
arises. The tower
construction is concrete
block and steel Within the twin
towers are the offices and art shop as well
as storage rooms.
In the children's playground is included a track
lor both ponies and Mexican burros. Originally
the theatre employed the burros in pjlling
Din-A-Corts among the ramps to carry refreshments
to the patrons. This has been discontinued.
This aerial view of the Normandy twin drive-in shows the entire 35-acre tract on which the
theatre is built and gives a very clear picture of the traffic advantages of the design. All patrons
enter through a four-lane entrance where they are routed to one theatre area or the other. In
is leaving, traffic dispatched through four separate drives to avoid congest on. It is also
interesting to note that the Normandy built in a fairly well-populated area rather than along
is
a highway completely outside the metropolitan area.
. __ ^ '

1
TELESEAL
efficient
low-cost
UNDERGROUND
CABLE
for
DRIVE-INS
Not only is TELESEAL low in cost,
but it enables you to make substantial
installation savings, because
TELESEAL may be burled directly in
the ground without conduits or
other protection. TELESEAL is built
like a miniature submarine cable
and is protected with a tire-tread
type neoprene jacket that will last
for years. Whitney Blake's exclusive
Teleplate* process provides lasting
adhesion of the inside rubber
insulation to the conductor.
FOR LOW-COST, LONG-LIFE
UNDERGROUND SOUND
TRANSMISSION USE
TELESEAL
For further information, see /T^^S^i
your theatre supply house or I
'vK
your local Graybar warehouse. V^ V9
Promoting Profits
With Playground
I
Continued from page 10
some casual adult watchfulness may be in
order although it is usually better to let
youngsters work things out themselves.
SUPERVISORS IMPORTANT
Here is where the value of well-trained
supervision is recognized. Someone who
knows how to work with children in such
groups is ideal for this type of work. Playground
workers from the schools or park
departments of nearby cities often welcome
this type of work, which can be arranged
to avoid any conflict with their regular
employment. Since the drive-in operates
after school hours, teachers can be employed
without upsetting their regular
schedules. During the summer months
when schools are regularly closed, many
teachers are looking for short term employment.
Employment of a teacher or
park supervisor who is popular with youngsters
adds to the popularity of a playground.
The pony ride, with real live steeds, is
one type of entertainment that comes between
the power rides and playground
equipment and finds a universal acceptance
among youngsters. Since evei-y child seems
to like the ponies and wants to ride them,
they have become a familiar part of child
entertainment operations. A pony ride is
frequently operated on vacant city lots as
a profit-making business which draws
steady juvenile followers all by itself. The
average park operator considers the pony
track a "nuisance ride" yet cannot do without
it. This very fact proves its attraction
value for the drive-in.
The cost of the pony and problems of
care, feeding and sanitation complicate the
operation of this type of attraction. It is
necessary to employ attendants to care for
the ponies, as well as to help the youngsters
on and off. This can prove expensive if
rides are offered without charge.
Drive-in theatres with playground installations
have almost universally found that
they can profitably open the boxoffice well
before showtime. People will come a couple
of hours early just to give their children a
chance to play before the show starts.
When the playground is properly supervised
and lighted there is no objection to
the children using it after dark. Younger
children can still get their best hours of
play in before the sun goes down.
With an earlier opening hour, the attendance
at the first show increases and ramp
spaces are normally cleared out in time to
make them available for the late show patrons.
In this way an evening's attendance
can be increased. More efficient use of the
house capacity and a steadier total business
can be built. Families who bring youngsters
in early are usually anxious to get home as
early as they can, and won't stay to see
one of the features a second time.
After installing a playground, sales in
the concession department show a noticeable
pickup. Youngsters want popcorn,
candy, peanuts, hot dogs, soft drinks and
perhaps milk. Playing makes them hungry
—and they want something to eat even if
they had supper just before coming. The
concession stand should be designed so as
to be readily available to the playground.
In some cases a separate stand is necessary.
Portable service units to supply the recreation
center may also be utilized. The increase
in concession sales may well offset
the added cost of operating the playground.
Finally, the drive-in operator who has
installed recreation etjuipment should be
sure that the public knows about it. Regular
theatre promotion should mention this
service. Signs, cards, 24-sheets, throwaways,
newspaper and radio copy, and perhaps
trailers on the screens of affiliated indoor
theatres should carry news of this service.
(To be concluded next month)
DRIVE-INS
OUR MANY SATISFIED CUSTOMERS
ARE PROOF OF THE ALL-AROUND
DEPENDABILITY OF THEATRECRAFT'S
THREE OUTSTANDING ACHIEVE-
MENTS IN THE DRIVE-IN FIELD.
-> SAFE
• DURABLE
• ECONOMICAL
APPROVED BY
UNDtRWRITERS' LABORATORItS
•Swl
\anufaetured and fully Guaranteed by
THEATRECRAFT 7^=°
CLEVELAND M.OHIO
16 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

; February
(fuCUicC /4^a6Hi^
I
panel is altered evei-y day or two during
Unwrapping a Drive-In
this pre-season period so that motorists'
Riverview at 2nd Street Kansas City 18, Kansas •
Continued from page 11)
interest may be aroused in passing. The
campaign is climaxed by the announcement
lowed only at theatres where the chain of the opening attraction and the date it
maintains regular night watchmen during will play when final plans are complete.
the winter.
In preparation for opening, all ramps
This constitutes but one branch of promotion
used by Commonwealth managers,
and drives are scraped by a blade mounted however, Blakey explained. In addition,
on a jeep to detect soft spots and to level advertising copy is inserted in local newspapers
up any holes. In this regard Braunagel
and on radio stations. Direct mail
says loose gravel, which soon packs into copy is also sent to rural route boxholders
a solid road bed, is preferable to black within a 20-mile radius of the theatre.
top or concrete which requires expensive
annual maintenance.
USE SPECIAL APPEAL
In the refreshment department, individual
General advertising plugs such appeals
managers
as the fact
must know in advance
that attending a drive-in eliminates
the
what merchandise and
need for a babysitter,
supplies they
that
will
you
need to open for business. Staple items
can come dressed as you please and that
such as popcorn, salt and seasoning are
children are admitted free, tied in, of
ordered by the manager through the central
course, with the fact that the Riverside
purchasing office. Items like wieners, buns,
will soon be open again for the season.
ice cream and bottled soft drinks are
In the direct mail copy, postal cards are
bought locally by each manager.
used to describe such advantages as the
romance of far-away places afforded by the
REMOVE BULBS IN FALL
drive-in's screen fare and the family attendance
angle.
In closing for tlie fall, all display light
bulbs and fixtures have been removed, except
those used for emergency lighting on
Onan Standby Plant. In case of power failure the
You are protected against power interruption or
As a special attraction these cards often restrictions on your use of electricity with an
carry the offer of a free admission for one
the grounds during the winter. Regular
Onan Plant takes over the entire power load
person if the card is presented at the drivein
boxoffice during the opening week.
within seconds automatically, and the show goes
quart oil cans are upended over bare
on. When power use is curtailed, just switch to
sockets for protection. Bulbs and fixtures
your Onan Plant for all the current you need.
Another copy appeal is tied in with the Low in cost, simple to install. Ruggedly built
must all be replaced in the spring.
promotional use of giant spotlights used
and dependable. 1,000 to 35,000 watts A.C.
Since most of the landscaping work is
as display at the drive-ins. On opening
night, and on into the season, these
D. W. ONAN & SONS INC.
done during the fall, little is needed here
except raking and trimming to see that
spotlights point probing fingers into the
evei-ything looks its best on opening night.
sky above the theatre. Advertising copy in
TOtUc^ 'Poldex
With the thorough refurbishing of physical
equipment, the reopening job is still
newspapers and on the radio suggests that
patrons "follow the light in the sky." After
not complete even though many drive-in
opening, the chain's popcorn boxes continue
the promotion. On their sides are pic-
operators may think so, Manager Blakey
DRIVE-IN THEATRES
asserts.
"4 "must" for the kiddies
tures of the searchlight and the theatre
"A theatre may be in tip-top shape, with
and the same admonition, "Follow the light
film and food on hand, but without customers
to watch the film and eat the re-
in the sky."
freshments, the theatre's not ready to
open."
The problem of detennining which
As a special part of opening preparation,
brand of popcorn to use in his refreshment
attendance promotion at the River-
service stand never bothers E. E. Wade, of
side starts some three weeks before opening
Wade Enterprises, who operates the the-
when copy on the attraction boards is atre in Belmont, N. C. On his 400-acre
changed to some type of teaser material fann outside Morgantown, Wade raises a
announcing that "spring is just around the popcorn crop that yields 50 bushels to the
corner and so is the opening of the Riverside
acre. He's also proud of the fact that he
Drive-In."
Information on the changeable copy
is the first man in those parts to strip-farm
mountain land.
We Specialize in
SPEAKER STANDS
for Outdoor Theatres
Request photos of our line of swings,
merry-go-rounds & slides.
HILL'S
Fabricated to Specification in Our Own
PLAYGROUND EQUIP'T.
Plant
Grand Proir e, Texas, or
CO.
WIL-KIN THEATRE SUPPLY, INC
IMMEDIATE DELIVERY • ANY QUANTITY
Atlanta, Go. Charlotte, N.
Don't Delay! Wire, Write or Phone! Telephone L. D. 1024 or THatcher 9243
For full information by mail, use the postage-paid cards at
Page 51 and write in the Key Number of this od, 17 A.
€

I
. ij^ c^s^a^ ^^^"^
BALLANTYNES SENSATIONAL NEW i
MX40 SERIES IN-A-CAR SPEAKER
S'^ When you hear the amazing tonal quality.
. . . drive a car over it . . . soak it in
'•\^, the clear, sharp reproduction of the MX- water. It is designed and built to outlast
&t 40 . . . when you see its rugged, sturdy many speakers costing even twice as
construction, you would expect to pay far much. Available with or without built-in
more than the low cost of this .speaker. downlight in the junction box; with
After installation. 2. 3. or 4 years, you will straight or coiled cords. For new driveins,
or for replacement of obsolete speak-
find your maintenance cost at an ab.solute
minimum. The case is heavy gauge, ers, there is nothing comparable in qualitv
at anywhere near the price. Any Bal-
.
formed high quality steel, bonderized and
baked-paintcd in a beautiful hammer finish.
You can't hurt it: Drop it on concrete the MX-40 for You.
lantvne Dealer Will Gladly Demonstrate
«iigi«pm^^^^^^^^S^
Available in the new delu.xe
junction box with
tinted plexi-plass ramp
marking light (right).
BALLANTYNE
AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM
The Only System Designed Exclusively
For Drive-in Theatre Operation!
The Ballantyne Amplification System is not
converted theatre equipment. It was especially
designed for drive-in theatres. In
power, quality of reproduction, and smooth
trouble-free performance it is years ahead
of the industry. Over 300 drive-in operators
using Ballantyne amplification testify to its
superiority. It is available for either single
or dual channel operation, and for any size
drive-in. Whatever your needs. Ballantyne
Amplification will give you maximum efficiency
at low cost;
The New Ballantyne
EQUIPMENT "PACKAGE"
Buy your complete drive-in equipment
in a "package" . . . "package
priced" at tremendous savings. You
have your choice of any combination
of speakers, amplifiers, projectors,
arc lamps, soundheads, bases, and
miscellaneous accessories.
M
m
SOUNDMASTER IN-A-CAR SPEAKERS
1949's Top Value NOW IMPROVED
^— The speaker tliat over 280 drive-ins
bought in 1949 offers several new
improvements including rubberoid
covered speaker hangers, extended
louvres, and double strength back.
Yet because of mass production these
speakers are now available at a reduced
price! 'Illuminated volume
control knob with self-activating light
source also available on request, at
no extra cost. A novel idea for calling
patrons attention to speaker at
show break so they will replace it on
speaker post.
There's a Ballantyne "Turn-
Key" Drive-in being constructed
near you. Write for location
and see how this completely
built, completely equipped
plan saves time, trouble and
expense.
THE BALLANTYNE CO., 1707 DAVENPORT ST.. OMAHA, NEB.
18
Surface Savings
For Drive-Ins
'Continued from page 12)
depending on the type of soil, temperature
and other conditions.
Within 24 hours the treated area should
be ready for use. Within a week under normal
weather conditions the Dustrol should
have cured completely. By this time it will
not "track" or adhere to shoes or clothing.
an important factor to families with children
W'ho delight in piaying about the
car during the show.
Another advantage of the Dustrol treatment
is that, except in rare cases, it is
not necessary to import any special types
of soil as supplement for existing surfaces.
In cases of extremely sandy soil it might
be necessary to add some type of binder
soil. Otherwise it is necessary only to increase
the quantity of Dustrol used.
When surfaces are still somewhat loose
after treating, it is well to use pneumatic
rollers on the surface after curing.
In figuring the economy of original application,
an average cost slightly in excess
of 11 cents per square yard has been
established for drive-in theatres surfaced
in the middle western area. Although these
applications have been quite inexpensive,
it is only fair to place costs within a range
of 10 to 20 cents per square yard depending
upon freight rates, contractor's fee
and condition of the ground to be treated
The cost of treating these drive-ins aveiaged
slightly in excess of $6.25 a car with
a natural cost advantage to the larger
drive-in where the usually smaller road
area cost is divided over more cars.
In addition to the original cost advantages
of using the Dustrol treatment,
maintenance and subsequent advantages
are of great interest to the drive-in
operator. In the event that a location
proves only moderately profitable a Dustrol
treatment at the opening will provide an
adequate weather surface which can be
brought to first-class condition with only
spot application the second year. If, on
the other hand, a Dustrol surface is kept
in good condition through two or three
years and the owner wishes to add a more
expensive type of hard surface, application
will be less expensive because of the completely
stable base on which this surface
may be laid.
Announce RCA Promotions
Harry J. Mayer, former manager of
technical products service of the RCA
Service Co. in the Chicago district, has assumed
new duties as New York district
manager of the firm's technical products
service division, according to W. L. Jones,
vice-president in charge of the division.
Fred W. Wentker, formerly of the company's
home office, takes over the post
vacated by Mayer in Cliicago. William F.
Hardman, former New York district manager,
has been made a special representative
of the company in Washington, D. C.
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

WatsonviUe
Super Station
Added To Drive- In
Don't Close Down Because It's Cold!
National
pji^
^t^
i"
In-Car
Heaters
Increase
Business
A combination drive-in theatre and super
service station is being planned for Corpus
Christi, Tex., by Spillman & Spillman, architects,
for the Gonzales Theatre Co.
The service station will occupy an 80x
150-foot space on the corner of the site,
with the screen tower for a background.
In addition to the 475 in-car speakers,
there will be 300 seats for walk-in patrons.
The seats will be located directly behind
the lawn at the foot of the tower. Restrooms,
the manager's office and storage
space will be housed in the tower, A second
set of restrooms will be in the snack bar.
The facings of the service station and the
screen tower will be of enamel iron in colors
designed to harmonize with the surroundings
and the landscape.
Estimated cost of the project is between
$100,000 and $150,000.
First Ramp 'Dug-out'
For Walk-In Patrons
Arden A. Richards, owner of the Craigsville
Drive-In Theatre at Craigsville, W.
Va., noticed recently that he was occasionally
getting as many as 150 to 200
walk-in customers. Figuring that probably
a fourth of them were overflow patronage
from automobiles, Richards decided
the additional walk-in trade might
bear a little cultivation.
With this in mind, he decided to design
a 200-seat ramp house which would be
partly dug out of his first ramp and partly
above ground. Although this eliminated
16 cars, Richards felt the service worth
the space.
Winter arrived before completion of the
ramp house or the arrival of in-car heaters
which Richards had ordered, but he is
still operating part of each week with only
a roof over the "indoor" portion of his
outdoor theatre.
Richards mentions that although children
under 12 are admitted to the drivein
free, he does charge a reduced admission
fee if they occupy seats in the ramp
house.
Chemical Controls Weeds
By Soil Sterilization
Another instance where modern chemicals
do a job more easily, quickly and better
than the old-time, hand methods is the
use of arsenic trioxide to kill weeds and
sterilize the soil so no plant growth occurs
for a year or two. It has been found that
this chemical method is cheaper than hand
hoeing and gives more thorough, longerlasting
weed control.
Many outdoor theatres and other organizations
are now using arsenic trioxide
for controlling weeds as this reduces fire
hazards and lowers fire protection costs.
Ajrsenic trioxide is non-inflammable and
weeds treated with it have a fire resistant
value.
It does not rust iron or steel.
Arsenic trioxide can be used to clear off
weeds and prevent regrowth on dirt and
gravel roads, driveways and ramp areas
of drive-in theatres.
Arsenic trioxide is highly toxic to vegetation
and when applied to the soil in the
proper dosage, retains weed-killing power
for a long time. It can be applied at any
time of the year but the best weed control
is obtained when it is applied at the
start of the rainy season when weeds and
grasses are starting. An application at
this time kills the young weeds and the
weed seeds not yet genninated and also
sterilizes the soil. Then, "spot" treatments
can be made seasonally or annually
to prolong weed control indefinitely.
For application, low pressure (100 to 150
Ibs.^ power equipment is recommended,
although sprinkling carts may be used or,
for small areas, a sprinkling can may be
used.
One caution to bear in mind when using
this arsenical weed killer! Since it sterilizes
the soil, it should not be applied
within the "drip" areas and root-feeding
areas of trees, shrubs, vines and other
valuable plants, nor where there is any
danger of animals eating weeds that have
been sprayed, as it is an arsenical poison.
COMMENTS FROM
"SUMMER -IZED" Drive-In Theatres
ATLANTA, Georgia (Starlight Drive-In)
"National InCar Heaters operating in worst
winter season have been a tremendous help
in keeping business to a profitable level. Unit
compact and well built. An absolute MUST
for Drive-Ins.
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico (66 Drive-in)
"Your heaters good drawing card. Patrons
and box office satisfactory."
ABILENE, Texas (Park Drive-In)
"Box office and patrons satisfactory — operating
profitably."
BARSTOW, Calif. (Bar-Len Drive-In)
"At 15 degrees National In-Car Heaters definitely
maintained business."
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (Terrace Drive-in)
"Well received by Patrons and box office.
Most patrons expect to pay for extra service."
CRAIGSVILLE, W. Va. (Craigsville Drive-In)
"At zero temperature we are operating at a
profit— ordering additional units."
CLEVELAND, Tenn. (Cleveland Drive-In)
"Worst winter in three years — operating to
capacity. More than pleased with results of
the heaters."
MERCED, Calif. (Merced Drive-In)
"Many complimentary comments from patrons
— Box office confirms."
PLACERVILLE, Calif. (Rancho Drive-In)
"National In-Car Heaters brought up attendance
87%—snow and zero weather—competit'on
closed because of cold. Thanks a
million for your heaters."
RIVERSIDE, Calif. (Roubidoux Drive-In)
"We have Til heaters— they ore responsible
for healthy box office and patron activity."
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (Moonlight Drivc-ln)
"Large part of our winter business can be attributed
to the installation of your heaters.
Complimentary comments from patrons."
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Starlight Drive-In)
"On cold nights all available heaters used—
everybody happy."
SANTA MARIA, Calif. (Park-Aire Drive-In)
"Extremely cold — business good. Wouldn't
do without your heaters."
The following Drive-In Thecxires are being
"SUMMER-IZED" with National In-Car Heaters:
ATLANTIC CITY, N. I., Waller Reade circuit
(under construction).
ALAMEDA, Calif., United Theatres, Inc., (under
con-^truction).
EATONTOWN, N. J., Walter Reade Circuit.
LEDGWOOD, N. J., Ledgwood Drive-In.
SAN FBUNCISCO, Calii., Mission Drive-In.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., Sunset Drive-In.
TAYLORSVILLE. N. C. Taylorsville Drlve-In.
WATSONVILLE. Calif ,
Drive-In.
•
Would You Operate a Conventional
Theatre Without a Heating System?
See Your Local Supply House or Write to
NATIONAL HEATERS, Inc.
1647 Victory Blvd. Glendale 1, Calif.
BOXOFTICE
: : February 4, 1950 19

The
Theatres are no longer
limited b\ the "throw" of the projection lens.
The new Super Luxars give greatly increased
screen brilliance at distances never before possible.
They provide the theatre designer increased
flexibilit)^ in theatre layouts.
For outdoor theatres, the projection booth may
now be located for maximum attendance and
convenience.
Super Luxar Lenses all have an aperture ratio
of f :2.0 with range of focal lengths from 6 to
1 2 V'2 "nd fit moit standard projection equipment.
For maximum screen illumination for extra
long "throws", in both outdoor and indoor
theatres, get the complete information and
prices of Super Luxar Lenses by writing.
PRODUCTS CORP.
Optical Engineers for IS yeors
926 N. CITRUS AVENUE
HOLLYWOOD 38, CALIF.
BURKE-BUILT 'IS^ZSi
BURKE
DCSIGH
DRIVE-IN
PLAY
AREAS
'BURKE CLIMB-AROUND
increase attendance & profits!
Playground Equipment has a double
advantage in a Drive-In:
PARENTS bring their children,
and CHILDREN bring their parents.
BURKE-BUILT Playground
Equipment is safe and strong and
inexpensive to maintain.
BURKE-BUILT Equipment includes:
Climb-A. Rounds, Swings,
Slides, See-Saws, Meiry-Go-
Rounds. Turning Bars, Horizontal
Ladders and other playground
apparatus. Write Dept. S.
Let Burke Engineers
help you plan a playground
for your Drivein.
Burlte-Built
* * *
Equipment
is approved by park
and playground officials
from coast to coast
PROSPECTS OF A PROJECTIONIST
IN A DRIVE-IN BOOTH
by GRAY BARKER
X*I.THOUGH THE SNOW IS STILL FLYING
in many localities, drive-in theatre owners
who are busy vacationing on sunny
Florida beaches are already beginning to
contemplate the return of spring to the
northern climes and another outdoor
cinema season.
Some of the hardier souls already are
locked in mortal combat with film salesmen
and branch managers, haggling over
celluloid masterpieces which some of you
may have the pleasure of herding through
a movie machine if you are lucky enough.
or unfortunate enough, to land in a drivein
"pill box" come April.
The drive-in projectionist's job is not all
a bed of roses nor is it all drudgery. Similar
to most occupations, it offers both
advantages and disadvantages.
MANY NEW DRIVE-INS EXPECTED
With a profoimd leer into the crystal
ball, we can see hundreds of drive-ins
budding in the spring. Since larger cities
already have the majority of such operations,
many of the new outdoor theatres
will pop up near smaller towns, even those
that ordinarily support only one three
hundred-seat indoor house. Some of these,
unhappily, will use some sort of 16rnm
arc jobs, but let's concern ourselves with
the outdoor houses using "34>2nun" prints
(allowing for three-year shrinkage).
Since many of these new drive-ins will
accommodate only about 200 cars and will
draw from limited areas, their projectionist's
pay cannot duplicate the relatively
high scale enjoyed by those cousins in the
big drive-ins. The new situations will see
their share of operators who have "just
picked it up and had lots of experience
with 16mm in the army. " majority
of these jobs, however, will be held by
you folks who, besides representing some
of the most faithful readers of this publication
and some of the finest projectionists
in the land, nevertheless may pull
down only about thirty bucks a week at a
small town indoor theatre.
The drive-in should pay a higher wage
scale, since employment is seasonal and
may require that you break off relations
with your regular boss, although he may
The Outstanding Speaker Buy for '50!
The AUTOCRAT CHAMPION
"Voice of the Car" Sets only
Challenges comparison on every point with 1 Z 1
1st
higher priced in-a-car speakers • Clean,
Pressed Steel
cases
modern design cases . . . finely f:nished . .
exceptionally rugged • Finest workmanship
(f 1 il Q *!
throughout insures clear cut results on voice \] 4 Ust
and music • Fully guaranteed. ""^jj.^
j,^^J"
AUTOCRAT, INC. srtL^J
2227 Hepburn Ave. Dayton 6, Ohio jun"io" B«.
own the local drive-in or may be liberal
enough to let you off for the summer.
Creation of these new jobs will contribute
to an operator shortage so it will
not be easy to get a night off. In fact,
a majority of drive-in projectionists we
know pilot their machines seven nights a
week with possibly one midnight show on
Saturday.
Even so, there is something fascinating
about an outdoor job in itself, maybe in
part because the large screens present
problems that can be pleasurable to lick.
A yell out the door usually brings hot
dogs, coffee or soft drinks from the refreshment
center adjacent to the booth.
Then there are the accounts of certain
outdoor projectionists' versatility which
run the gamut from child psychologist
to parking boy or guide for lost patrons
and youngsters.
The length of programs varies with theatre
policy, though as a general rule, programs
during the longer-day months and
on weekends particularly, are shortened to
less than two hours when possible. When
it darkens earlier. owTiers may schedule
"Twilight shows" and book double features
when colder nights lessen patrons' enthusiasm.
Five hours' work a night should come
near hitting an average for a typical show,
including intermissions to empty the theatre
under floodlights, and to encourage
visits to "our modem, beautiful and sanitary
Snack Center, located at center field."
TRAILERS SELL REFRESHMENTS
Irving Mack, Filmack Trailer head, has
undoubtedly been tarred and feathered
mentally many times by projectionists who
are required to stay in the booth during
these hot dog sessions and nan clock reels
showing how much time is left for refreshments
before the show begins. Tactics
such as this, however, are potent businessgetters
and speak well for the strides
ti-ailer producers and drive-in managers
have made.
As a drive-in projectionist you may find
yourself master of ceremonies and sound
engineer for trained dog acts or contortionists
atop your booth, for many enter-

prising managers have found this location
an ideal stage, relatively close to the audience.
Microphone cable is strung down
through the roof and plugged into your
regular sound channel.
A majority of these new theatres, though
small, will feature in-car speakers, for the
less-expensive blast systems are definitely
on the way out. Theatres have reported
improvements of 50 per cent or more in
grosses after switching to individual
speakers.
So many electronic units exposed to the
public and the elements naturally predispose
a great deal of maintenance work
which falls to the projectionist in most
cases, since he is the only individual who
knows anything of the private lives of the
electrons.
SPEAKER WIRING SIMPLE
In-car speakers are wired quite simply,
the wires being introduced upward through
the supporting pipe, stripped of insulator
inside the junction box and connected thus
without any cut. From this connection the
wires go back down the pipe and on to
the next one. The two lead wires to each
speaker terminate in "pinch clips" which
are attached to terminals inside the junction
boxes. These clips are used so that
if a patron absent mindedly drives off
without replacing the speaker, the wires
will pull out of the clips instead of damaging
the wire, the speaker, or breaking
what would be an irate customer's window.
When patrons accidentally pull out speakers,
they usually return them to the boxoffice
or replace them on the posts.
It usually falls upon the projectionist to
make repairs, either after the show or before
the one on the following evening.
This can be accomplished quickly, since
clips are provided by the management.
The volume of in-car speaker maintenance
will depend upon the quality of the
equipment used, weather and other conditions.
Replacement parts most frequently
used are speaker cones, complete speaker
units (excluding case), and volume controls.
Only a few other parts need be
stocked. Some speaker models feature
lighting and refreshment signal circuits,
which add to maintenance problems.
REPAIRMAN VALUABLE
Some small theatres, though effecting
false economy, feel they cannot afford the
services of a professional sei-vice man and
depend uiK)n the projectionist to know all
the answers when something goes wrong
with the equipment. Since most drive-in
equipment is new, little trouble is experienced
the first two or three seasons.
Most drive-ins play film after all nearby
indoor runs, and some, perhaps, even behind
television so that the condition of
prints is a problem often calling for major
overhaul. Inspection time is consequently
lengthened. When messenger service is
available, inspection usually must be made
before show time, necessitating your earlier
arrival. The drive-in projectionist should
actually expect to spend at least six hours
a day on the job.
THE NEW Shadow Box
"MIRACLE-VUE"
DRIVE-IN SCREEN TOWER
all-steel construction . . . costs no more
SHARPER • CLEARER
than the ordinary screen tower
ERECTED ON YOUR SITE
OR SOLD F.O.B. OUR PLANT
• BETTER VISION
with "Miracle-Vue," the latest engineered advancement
in Drive-In Screen construction.
'ENGINEERED TILT' Screen reduces screen distortion
to minimum. For the first time 'Keystone'
effect is no longer a Drive-ln projection
problem.
New SUPER-BRIGHT screen surface is achieved
through our own special process.
Permanent ALL-STEEL construction is guaranteed
to withstand all weather conditions in any
type of climate.
WILL ERECT ANY SCREEN TOWER IMME-
DIATELY REGARDLESS OF WEATHER ... Be
prepared for the spring . . . order your tower now
and don't get caught in the late winter and
early spring rush . . . be sure you open on time!
LOW PRICES
Shodow Box "MIRACLE-VUE," STANDARD or ECONOMY
Drive-ln Screen Towers are the best priced screen towers
available and fully guaranteed. Our prices defy comparison.
Write or Wire for Price and Construction Data . . . Today!
DRIVE-IN
475 Fifth Avenue
"MIRACLE-VUE" IN 3 SIZES
Tower 50' High x 52'—P cture
48' wide X 35'.
Tower 62' High x 64'—Picture
58' wide X 42'.
Tower 74' High x 76'—Picture
68' wide x 49'.
"STANDARD" Tilted Steel
Screen Tower in 3 sizes.
Tower 50' High x 50'— Picture
48' wide X 35'.
Tower 62' High x 61'—Picture
58' wide x 42'.
Tower 74' High x 73' —Picture
68' wide x 49'.
"ECONOMY" New, Inexpensive
Steel Screen Tower in 2 sizes.
Tower 48' High x 48'—Picture
48' wide X 35'.
Tower 59' High x 58'—Picture
58' wide x 42'.
Any Tower completely enclosed
if desired . . . maintenance
platforms and steel ladders
available for all models.
All Towers erected on your lot
or sold F.O.B. our plant. Complete
erection and foundation
plans furnished with all F.O.B.
orders. Average erection time
4 days.
CONSTRUCTORS. INC.
New York, N. Y.
Builders of Screen Towers and Complete Drive-Ins Architectural Plans Also Available.
iDRIVE-
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950

RCA Announces Drive-In
Package Sales Plan
A comprehensive "packaged" drive-in
sales plan designed to take the planning
and construction headaches out of launching
a drive-in theatre has been announced
by the Theatre Equipment Sales Division
of the Radio Corp. of America.
Drive-ln Marquees
Attract Attention
Organized to help the motion picture exhibitor
"buy in" quickly on the profitable
and fast-growing drive-in business, according
to RCA's announcement, the program
offers the prospective drive-in exhibitor
economies and freedom from multiple-contract
worries by grouping all requirements
except the site and the operating personnel.
PATENTED
CREATION
THAT
IS
SWEEPING
THE
COUNTRY
A sturdily constructed
Unit that can be
used at entrances or
exits with letters iired
into the glass, such
as "ENTRANCE,"
"EXIT," "LADIES,"
"GENTS." "GAS."
"AIR." etc
Luminoire houses 6
instant-start lluorescent
lamps that give
oif a rich glow ol
light. Con be mounted
on 2" to 5" O.D.
pipe or on hexagonal
standard as shown.
Wall type and
"Clamp Around"
types also available
for ornamentation.
AREA LIGHTS TO FIT EVERY
PURSE and PURPOSE
Wrapped up and delivered in a single
package, under the new plan, are design,
construction, equipment, and servicing.
Specifically, the RCA drive-in "package"
will include:
1. Planned layout specifications adapted
to topographical requirements of the site.
2. Construction, including drainage, grading,
ramping, screen tower, projection
booth, ticket booth, concession stand, entrance,
parking area, entrance and exit
roadways, electrical installations, underground
wiring, display sign, and many
other items which enter into the erection
of a modern drive-in theatre.
3. Equipment of the theatre with the latest
RCA drive-in projection and sound
equipment, tailor-made for individual
needs.
4. An RCA drive-in service plan providing
for periodic inspection, maintenance,
and emergency service for sound and projection
equipment.
5. AiTangement of financing plans adjusted
to individual requirements.
Shown at the top is the changeable copy display
installation recently made for the Parkway
Theatre of Louisville, Ky., by W. J. Rueff
Signs,
Inc.
The Wagner three-row Master Multiple No.
41 frame has an opening which measures
44"xl 5'6". Wagner colored plastic letters in
4, 8 and 10-inch sizes, form the copy.
In the lower photo is the display installation of
the Kenwood Drive-ln, Louisville, Ky. Wagner
10-inch plastic letters in various colors and 4-
inch black plastic letters are used.
MORE MONEY FOR
Build
DRIVE-INS!
Up Your WALK-IN
Patronage and Profits
No. 3017
Area Light in
Porcelain
for 300 to 1000
Watt Lamps.
No. 3033
Area Light Alar
Porcolcin
for 200 Watt Lamps.
SEND THE COUPON
REVERE ELECTRIC MFG. CO.
e022 Broadway, Chicago 40. HI.
SEND ME PYLON-UTE INFORMATION.
NAME _ _
COMPANY
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
_
SEATING COMFORT
DOES IT!
Install Griggs No. 10S Outdoor chair for
Drive-Ins.
Just ask a Representative to Coll!
EQUIPMENT COMPANY.CC.. BELTONTEx
OFFICES: DALLAS. 2003 Jackson — MEMPHIS — 410 S. Second —
SHREVEPORT, Box 213 Cedar Grove — OKLAHOMA CITY — 708 W.
Grand — NEW YORK CITY. 1560 Broadway.
22 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: February
—
New England Sees Drive-In
Construction Boom
New England has decided that the cold
weather problem for drive-ins is whipped.
Two years ago Vermont was without a
single outdoor theatre, Maine had one as
did Rhode Island. A few enterprising exhibitors
took a chance in Massachusetts
and motorized patrons in the Bay State
were able to see outdoor movies in a half
dozen areas.
In 1950 the drive-in stoi-y in New England
will be one of unprecedented development—for
an area as far north as the
cluster of six New England states. An estimated
113 of the outdoor theatres will be
in operation, including 16 now under constiTiction
and scheduled to be ready for
spring opening. Rhode Island will have
three drive-ins operating in 1950 and
Massachusetts will have between 60 and
65 by summertime, of which about a dozen
are now being built.
Michael Redstone, whose difficulties in
obtaining permission to build drive-in theatres
in Boston made the daily press headlines,
will add three outdoor theatres in
Massachusetts this spring. He already has
two there and two others in New York.
Redstone is doing a public relations job
by making his drive-in theatres available
to civic authorities for public functions
and for community Easter services. The
Boston circuit operator, Phil Smith, who
has 15 drive-ins in the midwest and currently
is putting one in at Natwick, Mass.,
also offers his theatres for public functions.
The upsurge in outdoor theatres in the
area is suiiirising to many veteran exhibitors
who have remained out of the field.
With cold weather settling over the New
England area early in the fall and sticking
until late spring, the drive-in had been
given little chance of surviving in the
sector. Apparently, hardy New Englanders
aided by in-car heaters and other accompanying
cold weather conveniences
provided by the outdoor exhibitors, can
take it. And business is good enough during
the seven or eight months of operation
that the drive-ins can operate on an
acceptable margin of profit.
Import Foreign Carbons
Once More
It has just been announced that after
the absence of several years, BIO cinema
carbons are again available to the American
motion picture industry.
Helios Carbons, Inc., of Newark, N. J.,
has recently completed arrangements for
sole American distribution with the German
manufacturer under the approval of
the European Recovery Administration and
U. S. State Department.
The firm is now appointing distributors
for the United States. Helios Carbons. Inc.,
has already imported and maintains in the
New Jersey warehouse, a large stock of
these BIO cinema carbons in all sizes and
types, for any size projection lamp and any
size theatre including drive-ins.
G. E. DESIGNS NEW
DRIVE-IN SPEAKER
Placed on the market as this issue went
to press were two new models of a General
Electric speaker designed for drive-in use,
specifically built to avoid failures and imperfect
sound caused by excessive humidity.
The problems of buzz, hum or complete
failure sometimes attributed to paper base
speaker coils are said to be largely eliminated
through the use of the G.E. aluminum
foil base voice coil which is virtually
impervious to moisture. Selection of such
a moisture-resistant cone material helps
greatly in solving problems of wai-page or
mislocation of the spider.
A specially-designed cork gasket insures
correctness of the speaker position within
the housing since the non-absorptive cork
does not expand under moisture.
The new speaker i§ made in both a four
and a five-and-a-half-inch model. Both
have a 1.3 ounce Alnico 5 magnet, a 3.2-
ohm voice coil impedance and 4 watts
power handling capacity.
FROM PICKING THE SITE
TO OPENING NIGHT...
WE ARE EQUIPPED TO ASSIST IN
OR ALL OF THESE FUNCTIONS:
ANY
ic site selection
if construction supervision
^ preliminary plans if operations planning
if design research
if concession arrangements
buildings, drainage,
traffic control
if training personnel
if choice of equipinent if advance publicity
if sale or purchase of locations and theatres
You can save time and money in planning your
Drive-In Theatre by utilizing the broad experience
of this organization. It is headed by men
who pioneered in developing America's first
Drive-In and who have engineered over 350
theatres.
You will find these services can reduce your
original investment and produce a more profitable
operation. For example, our grading plans,
requiring a minimum of earth moving, can
reduce your investment substantially.
Preliminary and confidential inquiries are invited concerning any phase of our complete drive-in theatre services. No obligation.
DRIVE-IN THEATRE SERVICE CO.
W. W. SMITH, V. C. SMITH, Partners, 840 Cooper Street, Camden, N. J.
BOXOFFICE :
associated uith
TAYLOR ENGINEERING ASSOCIATES, S.
HERBERT T.WLOR. Professional Engineer
4. 1950 23

Many Uses for Drive-Ins
Outside of Showtime
£\ FEW YEARS BACK there were numerous
jokes concerning the packing industry
and the many by-products which were
developed to use more and more of the animals
which were slaughtered . . . until some
jokester finally declared they had used all
of the pig but his squeal.
Much earlier in the history of drive-in
theatres, enterprising owners and managers
began to cast about for uses to which
the outdoor theatres could be put when
they were not being used for the presentation
of motion pictures.
In Vails Mills, N. Y., for instance, Harry
Lament's drive-in theatre was recently used
as a toxoid clinic where children were
brought to be immunized against diphtheria.
Use of the theatre was donated by
Lament as a public service. Concession
stands and the projection booth were employed
as clinics.
The use of drive-in theatres was suggested
to Lament by a Mayfield, N. Y.,
physician who was unable to find a suitable
place in the rural Mohawk valley for
the clinic.
Plans for operation of his Overlook
Drive-In Theatre near Poughkeepsie next
year include installation of picnic areas
and a bathing beach for daytime use. With
a weather eye out for a good promotion.
Lamont admits the possibility of an allday
combination price or the use of beach
and picnic facilities and the show in the
evening.
The Pike Drive-In at Newington, Conn.,
is planning to present the Hartford Symphony
orchestra in a Sunday afternoon
concert next spring. Receipts will be turned
over to the orchestra.
In Austin, Tex., a local drive-in theatre
has already been used for a concert by the
Austin Symphony orchestra.
According to one authority, drive-in theatres
doubled as schoolrooms in Long
Beach, Calif., during a recent shortage of
educational facilities.
In Denver, Colo., and at several other
points in the middle west, drive-in theatres
have been used on Sunday mornings
for church services.
Plan New Drive-In
For Luna Park Site
On the charred site of Luna Park, one
of Coney Island's most glittering amusement
sections, may soon rise a new entertainment
area built around a drive-in
theatre.
Completely abandoned as a major entertainment
area since the last of three fires
reduced its rides, fun houses and swimming
pool to blackened ruins more than
three years ago, the new owners have announced
that the 13 acres will contain concessions,
a pool and shops in addition to
the outdoor theatre.
In-Car Heaters Extend
Drive-In Season
The pioneer in the field of in-car heaters
is David Sandler, president of Theatrecraft
Manufacturing Coitj. of Cleveland,
and it is this development of drivein
theatre equipment which has enabled
many outdoor theatres to open earlier and
close later. Actually, Sandler reports, there
are theatres equipped with his "Little Inferno"
in-car heater which now operate on
a year-aroimd basis in St. Clair, Pa.; Carbondale,
111.; and in a number of areas
in the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama and
Tennessee.
Sandler claims that his Mobiltone combination
unit was the first speaker-heater
unit offered on the market and the "Little
Inferno" is the first in-car heater unit
adaptable to present in-car speakers.
Many drive-in exhibitors are introducing
the heaters this year in order to take
advantage of an earlier opening, he said.
One expert advises that in creating a new
refreshment stand the counter should be
constructed in four-foot portable sections.
If a new piece of equipment is installed, a
complete section cannot only be easily removed,
but has a high resale value, he says.
One of the important features to remember
is that you carmot have too many cash
drawers and they should be conveniently
placed in order to cut down waste motion.
Screen Towers As You Want Them
Low Cost... Sturdy... Durable
P.O. Box 3782C,
Please send inlormat.on on. U
^^^^^^ ^^^^^^ Tower
^^.^^^ „p j^.^n Tower
Build your drive-in theatre around a Timber Structures screen tower, and
you get a low cost installation that will give you long time service with a
minimum of maintenance.
PRICED AT $2,067 UPWARD
The A-frame screen tower, illustrated here, is made in three sizes: 30-ft. x 40-ft.;
37V'2-ft- X 50-ft.; and 45-ft. x 60-ft. Prices include all necessary hardware.
Made of structural quality Douglas fir timbers, the A-frame screen tower is
designed to withstand wind velocities up to 100 miles per hour. To save erection
time and labor, face of the tower is made of '/4-in. exterior grade waterproof plywood,
with all sides and edges primed and sealed against moisture. Surface is
curved to assure freedom from keystoning.
SIMPLE ERECTION
The A-frame screen tower may be completed on the ground and swung into
position, or it may be erected in place. Glare curtains, ladder and walkway optional.
For further information on the A-frame or Swing-Up screen towers, see your
nearest Timber Structures office, or fill in and mail the coupon.
Timber Structures, Inc.
P.O. BOX 3782C, PORTLAND 8, OREGON
Offices in Boise, Idaho; Eugene, Oregon; Lowrenceville, N.J.;
Chicago; Dollas; Kansas City; New Yoric; Seattle; Spokane
TIMBER STRUCTURES, INC. OF CALIFORNIA. Ookland and Socromento
Local representatives coast to coast
24 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

ANY DEALER
IN THE COUNTRY. ST. LOUIS TERRITORY EXCEPTED,
CAN SUPPLY YOUJVITH THIS Superior Speaker FOR
per set complete with
transformer, wires
V^^^^.^^^^^
\»^
0\>'"'
Vo ,u»*
Co" et^
c\Mt
if%i^n
TRNO CRR NUMBtR
FINEST
QUALITY
SPEAKER SET
EVER PRODUCED AND
AT HALF THE^
PRICE
V
BUYS THE CARSIDE
OR STANDEE SPEAKER
COMPLETE WITH
TRANSFORMER AND
"L" PAD CONTROL.
BUY DIRECT FROM US
OR YOUR DEALER ^ff/
/ THE "COOP" HAS A DIECAST HOUSING "L" PAD
^
VOLUME CONTROL AND TAPPED TRANSFORMER
f PERMITTING A LINE IMPEDANCE MATCH FROM
V 1.000 TO 10.000 OHMS.
\ PHONE OLIVE 060S ''h^S!^^'
3142 Olive Street ^«HK St. J.oul6 3, I No.

, Man.
Man&^SCOKS AGAIN! J
m^^BJ ENGINEERED AND yi^n» AN AMAZING fl
DESIGNED FOR
BIGGER PROFITS
DRIVE-IN
THEATRE
OPERATION
(^
POPCORN MACHINE
Manley introduces the perfect answer to the Popcorn
Machine requirements of Drive-In Theatres. Here is
a big capacity machine which can produce as much as
30 bushels of popped corn per hour. Every facility
for speedy, efficient operation has been combined in
this one big, beautiful unit. Here are some of the
features that will interest you. Heavy duty— high
capacity kettle. Large unobstructed warming pan.
Warming oven to increase storage of ho(, fresh, delicious
corn. Automatic seasoning well and pump.
Colored tubular illumination to give corn that freshly
buttered look. And, you'll want to know all the additional
important features of this great new Manley.
Write for the complete facts. Use the coupon below.
UltCH MrO. CO.
•
ONLY manley/^eliverI^^P
the Cor omplete Package. Le^^^^
MAIL COUPON TODAY
needT ,
Manleyw fill your every
Machine, Corn, Seasoning, Salt
2°-2-4-50
MANLEY, INC. Dept.
and nationally advertised bags
1920 Wyandotte St., Kansas City 8, Mo.
and Boxes.
OINMAl OFriCISl
1920 Wyondott* StrMt, Kontoi City •, NUlieiiH
• iOGEST NAMl IN POPCORN" PhlW.lphi., P..
RmkoIk, Va.
Gl. Cincinnati, Ohio Dt> Mointi, U. MInntapolll, Minn. Si. Louit, Mo.
,
CItvcland, Ohio Indianaaolis, Ind. Naw Orlaani, La. SaaHia, Wath.
Y. Dallas, taxai Kanui City, Mo. Naw Ywk, N. Y. Toronio, Ontario
I. C. Danvar, Colo. Loi Angalat, CalK. Oklahoma City, Okla. Vanceiivai, B. C
Dtlioll, Mich. Mamphli, Tann. Omaha, Nabf. Waitiington, D, C.
Please send me complete information on

: February
by HAVILAND F. REVES
eMM^
POPCORN PROBLEMS -AND PROFITS
--AT THE DRIVE-IN
JTjIltkough the profitable nature
of a general concession operation at any
drive-in has become pretty well established
in the minds of exhibitors, popcorn sometimes
seems to be a separate department by
itself. To the casual observer it might even
seem as though the popcorn section of a
large concession operation could profitably
be broken away from the rest of the business
and run independently.
Like many visions of wealth, however,
theories regarding drive-in refreshment
service need careful examination in the
light of conditions surrounding each operation.
Indoor theatre experience is not necessarily
a guide to outdoor operation in any
department, and especially when it comes
to concessions.
While owners of indoor theatres customarily
hold candy and popcorn concessions
in one package with theatre operation, and
very often operate the units themselves,
there seems to be a division of opinion in
drive-in operation.
CONCESSIONAIRES IN EAST
According to one experienced drive-in
operator, approximately 60 per cent of the
drive-in theatres east of Chicago employ a
concession specialist to manage their refreshment
service units as an independent
concession. West of Chicago, this authority
estimated that 90 per cent of the operators
figured refreshment vending as an integral
part of drive-in profits and managed the
operations themselves.
Of course, there are arguments for either
practice. Popcorn sold by a concessionaire
who knows his business thoroughly and
must give efficient and satisfactoi? service
to make a profit from this relatively small
operation may be the correct solution to
this end of the business.
How is corn to be bought, for instance?
An exhibitor might decide that price is the
controlling factor and pay inadequate attention
to quality. On the other hand, even
though he tried, would the exhibitor be in
a position to judge com quality as the specialist
must leam to be?
In the Detroit area last season the L & L
Concessions Co,, headed by Ben Lefkowitz,
installed a Cretors popcorn tester, a miniature
and relatively expensive popper with
a capacity of only one cupful of raw corn.
Evei-y shipment of corn received by the
firm is tested on arrival for size of popped
kernels, general quality and number of unpopped
kernels. Certain high standards of
quality must be met or the shipment is
returned to its source.
QUALITY MEANS PROFIT
Adherence to these high standards by a
concession specialist means a raw popcorn
cost that may run as much as $2.00 a bag
above the lowest price, but the added care
and cost pay off. Quality of the final product
is assured by methods which make
operation of a popcorn stand a fulltime
business. Greater profits are assured
through scientific selection of corn which
pops to larger volume and hence requires
less corn to fill standard size packages,
and both the concessionaire and the exhibitor
benefit through pleased customers.
Having considered the advantages of employing
an independent concessionaire for
refreshment operations, the matter of efficiently
utilizing personnel offers an excellent
argument for keeping popcorn sales
under the same management as the rest of
the refreshment service. For instance, on
cool nights the concessionaire may find
popcorn sales lagging and hot dogs, at the
other end of the counter, getting a heavy
play from the customers. If the two operations
are united he can easily transfer help
where it may be needed to meet the demands
of business.
However sold, the drive-in theatre is
generally recognized as an ideal location
for volume sales of popcorn. Where there
may be minority objection to popcorn at
indoor theatres because of its odor, noise
nuisance or maintenance problems, the
drive-in has an answer for each objection.
Although the fragrance of popping com
is considered pleasant by most customers,
those who object need not be irritated at a
drive-in where the odor is quickly dissipated
outside the refreshment booth where
it is popped and sold. With each patron
eating the corn within his own car the
nuisance of crunching sacks, or exploding
bags is also removed.
At the concession counter, however, and
fi-om the vender moving among the crowd,
the aroma of the freshly popped corn suggests
sales casually but quite effectively.
The true popcorn fragrance can be employed
most effectively in the process of
popping corn which can also be dramatized
by proper sight and sound display in the
concession booth. With this in mind, modern
corn popping devices are designed to
make the corn popping operation clearly
visible to prospective customers.
A few years ago a plastic-enclosed, coinoperated
popper was placed on the market
which failed to sell, probably because people
could not see the corn popping in the machine.
The sight of fluffy white com popping
has eye appeal and seems to give definite
assurance that the product will be
fresh when purchased.
OPEN POPPERS SELL CORN
In order to capitalize on this display feature,
often overlooked by the enclosed type
of popper sometimes used in conventional
theatres, drive-in operators prefer the large
open-faced poppers such as the Cretors
Giant. This type of machine, of course, is
installed close to the point of sale where the
moving and handling required to store and
package the corn is reduced to a minimum.
Prepopping of corn, of course, makes the
installation of popping equipment unnecessary.
Indoor theatres, with their smaller
volume of sales, are divided upon the question
of where to pop the corn, and so are
drive-in refreshment service operators.
( Continued on following page i 27
BOXOFFICE
:
4, 1950

. . SINCE
POPPING
50-lb. pails and drums
< CORH
38-lb. pails and drums
MADE BY ONE OF
AMERICA'S LARGEST
REFINERS
Popcorn Profits
I
Continued from preceding page^
In some parts of the country there is said
to be a minor trend toward the use of prepopped
com in order to eUminate some
of the problems of handling and processing
raw corn. Although this has not attained
the proportions of a trend as yet, it does
indicate the divided mind of the industry.
For a summary of some of the salient advantages
of prepopping from the exhibitors'
point of view, Anthony A. Szwarga of the
Nu-Way Popcorn Sales in Detroit suggests
such points as:
1. The lower investment for the theatre,
since the cost of popping machinery
is
eliminated.
2. Pleduction of labor and supply cost as
it is necessary to have employes only
to stock and sell the corn.
3. Availability of ample quantities of
popped com with which to meet peak
demands during rush periods.
4. Uniformity of product which is made
possible by factory popping of the
com where temperature and humidity
can be controlled exactly.
According to Szwarga, moisture-proof
sacks are now available which makes it possible
to control humidity of the com even
after it is sacked and stored at the drive-in.
On a test of corn packaged in this manner,
the product was reported to be in excellent
condition three months after popping.
HUMIDITY CREATES PROBLEMS
Humidity creates problems for the popcorn
man, particularly because of the frequent
dampness and fog at drive-in locations
which are often in low spots. Com
is often stored at the drive-in inside concrete
buildings with floors below ground
level where moisture condenses easily. Popcorn
is an excellent absorption agent and
deteriorates rapidly when wet. If com is
stored, whether raw or popped, adequate
provision should be made to keep it dry.
Frequency of com dehveries is an important
factor in deciding between using
prepopped com or installing poppers.
Although opinions differ with various
climates and localities, the consensus of
opinions seems to be that prepopping requires
daily service.
The fact that prepopped corn is stored
at the drive-in only in boxed or sacked
form places a limitation on the amount
which can be stored. Since space within
the refreshment unit of the drive-in is
usually at a premium, there is need of
more frequent delivery.
The average concession operation is
serviced by candy routemeh one or two
times weekly, and supply companies are
usually geared to provide service for cornpopping
operations on this basis. Obviously
a fresh product must be given to the
customer and some popcorn men assert
that corn stored overnight is not genuinely
fresh the next day. This appears to be
true of com popped at the drive-in but it
is possible that proper packaging can keep
it fresh for a longer period.
Weevils present another popcorn hazard
ONE WEEK STORAGE SAFE
About a week's supply of raw corn can
be safely stored at almost any drive-in, according
to authorities, under proper conditions.
The storeroom should be kept dry
—and properly ventilated. Temperature
should be cool—but not frigid.
in warm weather or under artificial heat.
Containers for the raw stock are now
being lined with treated paper to protect
corn against excess humidity, although it
is frankly admitted that this sacking does
not furnish complete protection. Furthermore,
since any container is being constantly
opened and closed, a well-sealed
type of container which would be safe
might prove so inconvenient as to be unsatisfactory
in actual use.
Unsold popped com which has been
boxed should not be saved, according to
men in the business, because it will absorb
moisture and be tough the next day.
Experience in indoor theatres where the
leftover corn is usually placed in air-tight
containers overnight is deceptive, for
there is very little moisture in the average
indoor theatre.
One disadvantage of popping on location
is that there is no com ready for the early
crowd. At the Wayne, Mich., drive-in,
girls come about 20 minutes early in order
to get the popping started. This, of course,
means extra labor cost.
James Missel, who provides popcorn
ser\ice to theatres, has devised his own
method combining both practices. A popper
at his shop prepares the first of the
night's supply which is taken out to the
theatre by the concession operator when
he goes on the job. By the time this sup-
I Continued on page 30)
The BEST FOODS, mc.
1 East 43rd Street
New York 17, New York
for the
DRIVE-IN!
CONCESSION PORTABLE POPCORN STAND
With this new mobile popcorn outfit you vend popcorn
right from the "aisle" in the drive-in theatre. Has
storage space for boxes, seasoning, popped and unpopped
com. Available with either Coleman gasoline
or electric heating unit. Outfit is completely portable
on rubber tired v/heels. Includes 12 qt. capacity allaluminum
Saratoga kettle popper. Stainless steel and
aluminum construction. Size: 36 x 18 x 36. Complete
S16S.S0; without legs and wheels $154.50.. Write today
for full information on this and other Concession nuMiey-
BETTER CONCESSION EQUIPMENT .
1905
CONCESSION SUPPLY COMPANY
Dept. D. 3916 SECOR ROAD TOLEDO 13, OHIO
28 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

SALES OF ICE CREAM NOVELTIES & POPS
DOUBLE
and
WHEREVER
ICECREAMOLATOR
GOES IN!
Theatres Everywhere Collect
New Big Profits Because
SEEING IS
SELLING!
If you now are selling popslcles, cups or other
ice cream novelties in your theatre, ICECREAM-
OLATOR will double your sales or better!* If you
are not, ICECREAMOLATOR will open the door
to a completely new and very substantial source
of profit.
ICECREAMOLATOR displays instead of hides
pops and novelties. ICECREAMOLATOR uses the
showmanship of LIGHTS! . . . COLOR! . . .
MOTION! ... to sell merchandise, not just
store it. And the result . . . sales doubled and
tripled consistently.
ICECREAMOLATOR is compact, self-contained
—holds 1 20 pops in the low temperature Lucite
display case, 30 dozen in reserve— all automatically
maintained at proper temperature. Needs
no attention.
Operates for a few cents a day. Easy to installjust
connect to electricity. Ask your Ice Cream
supplier about ICECREAMOLATOR— or see this
sensational sales-making merchandiser at your
nearest National Theatre Supply branch or send
coupon for full details.
•k We haye the proof in our files— prore
it yourself with a test installation.
Distributors:
ATIONAL
THEATRE
of
SUPPLY
Na%i«a«l « S>mi>le> •Bfu^w«nK,)«<
ICECREAMOLATOR, 342 Madison Ave., New York 17, N. Y.
Send at once full details of how ICECREAMOLATOR definife/y must
increase sales of ice cream pops and novelties.
SILVER -STAHL CORPORATION
219-23 Natoma St. San Francisco 3, Colit.
PARAMOUNT REFRIGERATION
1511 W. Pico Blvd. Los Angeles 6, Calif.

MAKE MORE
REFRESHMENT SALES IN
COOL WEATHER!
DRIVE-INS
Illuminated
Signs!
Insert shoM ows A
sturdy, rubber hber T The HOT-BOX
tired dollyoptional
equipment
corn, peanuts, hot sandwiches, etc., warm indefinitely.
V— '
Attractive, well-insulated cabinet keeps boxed pop-
— for easy portability Quickly pre-heated by built-in electrical unit. Foods
WALKY-KOFFEE
Plug in to electric current
to pre-heat. Keeps SO cups
of coffee piping hot. and
keeps cold drinks icy cold.
held in 3 removable chrome plated dispensing baskets.
S side display sijns. large illuminated sign at top.
Easily placed at point of greatest traffic flow for
maximum sales.
WALKY-TERIA
• HOT DOGS
• CHILI
• HOT
TAMALES
• HOT SOUPS
• BEANS
• HOT PEANUTS
• BEER AND POP
• FRUIT JUICES
• DAIRY
PRODUCTS
• HAMBURGERS
Similar to Walky-Koffee unit shown at left
The WALKY-TERIA is a WALKY SERV-
ICE UNIT developed to vend hot or cold
foods and packaged liquids. Electrical
built-in elements pre-heat the inside of
this unit within a matter of minutes.
The BUFFETERIA
Easily Handled! Amazingly Low Priced!
Takes the whole concession right to the cars.
People hesitate to leave cars on chilly nights.
Hot ond cold compartments for large stock of
ice cream, cold drinks, hot dogs, hot popcorn,
is chili, nuts, etc. When a Walky-Koffee mounted
on top of it you boost sales of all items.
'^^P&-
WALKY-SERVICE COMPANY ''i,tiS^l"Al!S''-
30
SOUNDPROOF POPCORN BAG
SILENCES THE COUNTRY!
Rex Soundproof Popcorn Bags
are quieting the clamor of theatre
managers everywhere for less
theatre noise and substantial
economies in Popcorn packaging.
Share in these advantages yourself.
*
WON'T CRACKLE . . .
WON'T
EXPLODE!
LESS THAN V2
COST OF BOXES
Write for Free Samples Now!
/^ez Paper Products Company
95-109 Onderdonk Avenue Brooklyn 6, New York
anufacturers of: Glossine, parchmenf, tam\rn
ipec\aU\es. Plain and multi-

parent volume can be prepared from the
same amount of raw stock." Most customers
like the big-looking kernels.
Bottled gas is the ideal heating source
for drive-ins, often located beyond the city
gas supply mains. Cooking gas is the simplest
to use as a fuel, of course, and to be
preferred where available. Electricity is
usually available at any drive-in as the
source of power for projection, but its heating
characteristics do not furnish as good
a result in popping popcorn as the intense
flame of gas. Hence, bottled gas is preferred
in planning an installation, even
though electricity may be used for other
cooking purposes in the concession.
3. Choice of right containers. The family
size popcorn container goes over best
in drive-ins. The nickel package is not so
popular here as at indoor theatres which
reflects one important characteristic of
drive-in trade. At drive-ins the whole family
comes in the car and buys popcorn for
the entire group.
A 10 or 15-cent box seems to be the
favorite and a choice is offered patrons by
many successful operators. Some theatres
have reported a sufficient demand to justify
the big 25-cent packages.
4. Eliminating the minor nuisance of
youngsters blowing up empty bags and exploding
them can be achieved by gangpunching
a small hole well down in the
sack. The sack just won't hold air, but the
hole isn't large enough to spill the contents.
For Greater Popping Profits
Today, due to good supply throughout the
corn producing area, top grade popcorn will
expand 32 to 34 times after popping. If a
merchant wishes to save 50 cents or $1 on
100 pounds of raw popcorn with an expansion
of 28 times, he may have a loss in
finished product of 12i to 15 per cent compared
to the use of top grade corn. A 12
or 15 per cent loss in popped product may
mean an actual loss of $15 to $25 per 100-
pound bag of popcorn.
Therefore, when the popcorn merchant
buys raw popcorn, quality and expansion
volume should be paramount and price,
secondary. Any large popcorn dealer will
certainly stand back of his product and a
good source of top quality popcorn is a
great help to any popcorn merchant.
msEnnnnnn
iOllY
TIME
Tolly time corn
Many increase profits lO^o to 20%
with this big popping, "Volumized"
corn. Try it. Guaranteed to please.
COMPLETE SUPPLIES
for money -ma king operation. Marvelous
new seasoning, salt, sacks,
cartons, oil. Write today for low
prices. No obligations.
AMBItlCAN POP CORN CO
SIOUX CITY, IOWA
POPCORN
^^SS'HO MESS
^^
POPSIT PLUS is always liquid at
indoor temperatures ... no
pre-heating, no scooping, no
splattering . . . just pour into
the measuring cup and pop
the sellin'est corn you've
ever tasted!
Simonin of Philadelphia
POPPING OIL SPECIALISTS TO THE NATION
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 31

,
BTJlVE
SOFT ICE CREAM
-FROZEN CUSTARD
B/g Vo/wDe—Icao Profits.'
Downstairs Refreshment Lounge
Pleases Kansas City Patrons
Install a Sweden Speed Fountain Freezer
in your refreshment area and cash in on
the nationwide popularity of these delicious
specialties. Easy to operate and keep
sanitary, Sweden is fully automatic . . .
completely versatile. Enables you to serve
at high speed, low food and labor costs.
A model for every indoor and drive-in
theatre need. Sizes start at 12" x I9V2"
X IBVa"- For low cost—big returns, it's
SWEDEN!
For further information
write to
Sweden Freezer Mfg. Co.
DEPT. F-13-P • SEATTLE 99, WASH.
Your Assurance of the Finest
POPCORN MACHINES
• Quality
• Integrity
• Experience
X HE Orpheum Theatre in Kansas
City, recently acquired by the Fox Midwest
circuit, was built some years ago as
one of the city's outstanding legitimate
theatres. As such it was equipped with a
comfortable downstairs lounge, complete
with fireplace. Through several years of
being closed, and more recently of operation
as a motion picture theatre, the lounge
had been closed off and used as storage
space for display materials, broken seats,
rubber matting and all the assorted brica-brac
which must be put somewhere.
In appraising the new property, Frank
Bamford, concession director for the circuit,
realized the possibilities of the unused
space and started crews with brush
and broom.
The result, something quite outside the
ordinary in modern first run theatres, is
a tastefully decorated refreshment lounge.
The only promotion given the lounge is
an edge-lighted plastic panel at one end
of the foyer which reads "Refreshment
Lounge Downstairs."
With carpeting and walls in a restful
beige gray, the lounge is vividly accented
with green and red modem upholstered
chairs and love seats. Colorful prints adorn
the walls.
Focal point of the lounge is the impressive
fireplace, which has been restored to
its original beauty in keeping with the
tasteful treatment given the entire house.
The stand is managed by J. W. Stuessi,
assistant manager of the Orpheum.
With 65 years experience in the manufacture
of corn-popping machines, the
CRETORS name-plate is your assuronce of
quality workmanship, trouble-free performance
and maximum earning power. Buy
Cretors and you buy the best!
Distributors in all principal cities.
C. Cretors 6l Co.
604 W. Ccrmok Rd. Chicago 16
MOBE PER HUNOtED
IN PROFITS 'IM/Tr*; PROCESSED OPO/V ODDER
TOPAY ro/f UMPir J I AND SHIPPED D/RECT TV YOUR
IN THEATER ^
INDIANA POP CORN CO.^
iPHOWe 9T6 2 • MUNCIE • INPIANA.
The booth at the Orpheum is equipped with two Drincolators, each serving Coca-Cola and root beer.
An Icecreamolatot in the background contains ice cream sandwiches. A built-in display case in the
center of the counter is kept filled with a wide vor/ety of popular candy bars of both five and tencent
types. In order to minimize damage to carpeting and upholstery, the booth does not sell chewing
gum of any kind. According to Stuessi, candy is the best-selling refreshment handled.
32 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: February
—
\ \
2^snt Let "'Nameless'' Syrups
Dry Up Your Cup-Machine Sales -^
CANADA DRY SYRUPS TO
DISPENSE GREATER PROFITS!
^liliwsi^p
m rm
i
I
IM
'>
Put a world-famous name to work
for you. Canada Dry has kept up con-
sistent, sales-pulling advertisingfor over
26 years.This pulling power works wonders
for cup-machines. Customers know
that Canada Dry stands for quality. And
repeat customers won't stand for anything
hut quality.
Canada Dry supplies you with the most popular flavor syrups.
CANADA=1)RY —
Spur
SYRUPS
and many other sparkling, delicious, world-famous flavors.
CANADA DRY GINGER ALE INCORPORATED, 100 EAST 42ND STREET, NEW YORK 17, N.Y.
BOXOFTICE
:
4, 1950 33

. .
Employe Builds Effective Counter Display
Free Popcorn Pays
For Popper
Somewhat reminiscent of the good old
days when razor blade manufacturers gave
away razors with a large enough purchase
of blades is an offer in the refreshment
service field of motion picture theatre
operation.
Announced quite recently in a two-color
mailing piece is the offer of enough free
popcorn, salt, popping oil and pnnted bags
to produce cash sales equivalent to the
purchase price of the Cretors popcorn machine
of your choice. The offer is made
by Charles E. Darden & Co.. Dallas distributors
of Cretors equipment.
As a specific example. Darden's offer
includes 600 pounds of hybrid com, 150
pounds of seasoning. 24 pounds of salt and
7,500 printed dime bags as the product
needed to produce cash sales required to
pay for the Cretors Hollywood model.
A firm believer in recognizing his own workers is Charles M. Pincus, manager of the Utah Theatre
in Salt Lake City. The theatre's refreshment stand, above, decorated for the holidays proves
his theory. The entire display, including the small houses at the front, was arranged by James
Devereaux, who arranges all candy counter displays and even mixes different types of malt drinks.
Gold Watches To
Veteran Employes
Four Chicago employes of C. Cretors &
Co. recently received solid gold watches
in honor of their 50 years' service with
the firm.
The presentation was made by C. J.
Cretors. third generation president of the
65-year-old company, to C. E. Ortlepp,
E. A. Oudin, B. J. Sexauer and H. Wang
at a private dirmer given in their honor
at Mr. Cretors' home.
Ovef 75 tfe euv5
famous ,
. . r [utlonaliu!
f
All over the country more and more theatre refrshment bars ore
turning to Hires because it has accumulated great consumer drawing
power due to over 75 years of consistent national advertising
and because Hires Fountain Syrup produces more drinks per gallon.
More people have bought Hires than
any other root beer because it is
made with real Roots, Barks and
Herbs, not from artificial flavors or
fl(^ with preservatives generally used in
others.
^o\i are 'way ahead with Hires
greater sales and profits
Hires Modern Dispensers, coast to coast reminders
to refresh nature's wholesome way,
have established a reputation for greater
sales . . . efficient trouble free service .
economical operation astoundingly lower than
other dispensing equipment.
THE CHARLES E.
HIRES CO.
206 So. 24th Street Philadelphia 3, Pa.
WRITE FOR DETAIL
Hires Fountain Syrup
Dispensing Equipment
Hires in Bottles
Advertising
34 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

COST STUDIES
PROVE THE
ECONOMY OF PAPER CUPS
Reprinted from Paper Sales, August 1949.
l^IUDiES OF fountain operations in
six cities have revealed that it is cheaper
to use paper cups for water, soft drinks,
sodas, shakes and sundaes than it is to
serve them in utensils that have to be
washed. Time and motion study experts of
the Business Research Corp. of Chicago,
who performed the experiment, discovered
that some fountains saved as much as $40
a week after paying for the paper cups.
The results of these tests are of interest
not only to food-serving establishments of
all types, but also to realistic public health
advisers who hesitate to prescribe sanitary
measures for eating places that may add
to the owner's cost of operation.
In making the comparison, industrial engineers
assigned to the project assumed
that the preparation of soda fountain
drinks and dishes was in fact a high-speed
manufacturing enterprise. They set out to
analyze evei-y cost incident to the type of
utensil used, no matter how trifling it
seemed.
Six typical fountains were selected for
intensive study: a medium-sized fountain
making 6,438 weekly services suitable for
paper cups in New York; a variety store
operation serving 14.424 a week in Chicago;
a large drug store fountain serving 15,277
a week in Philadelphia; a small independent
fountain serving 2,136 a week in Raleigh,
N. C; and a dairy bar serving 3,143 a week
in Boston. When the tests began, all were
using glasses.
The engineers spent a week at each place
making stopwatch studies of the time it
took to make each type of serving. The
movements made by fountain personnel
were analyzed into getting the glass; preparing
the contents; serving it at counter
or table; bussing or removing the soiled
dish, reconditioning the glasses for further
service, including scraping, sorting, racking,
pre-rinsing, washing, rinsing, toweling,
and replacing in storage. Labor costs for
each operation were figured on the basis
of local wage scales. Unit costs of washing
supplies were calculated, including
water, heating water, detergents, bnishes,
and chlorine. The cost of the glass itself
was determined by dividing its purchase
price by its expected sei-vice life calculated
on the breakage experience of the operation
for each item studied. Water temperatures
were checked for compliance with
local dishwashing ordinances. Fixed overhead
costs, such as rent and depreciation
on dishwashing machineiy was disregarded,
and no attempt was made to measure
costs which would be identical whether
a glass or a paper cup was used.
After the cost of operation with glass
had been figured, each fountain was
equipped with the appropriate sizes and
types of paper cups, and the fountain personnel
was given a week's time to get
used to the new routine. The time and
cost studies were then repeated under this
setup. Weekly summaries comparing total
costs showed a saving in favor of paper
cups in every case, although the amount
of saving varied widely with the location.
put « P[||5
'" your
PHOflJ
picture
LAWN
GRASS SEED
and
PLANT FOODS
Rush Hour Popcorn
Automatic Cartons
and other supplies.
P R U N T Y
SEED &> GRAIN CO.
620 North 2nd St., St. Louis 2, Mo.
— In our 76th year —
in your theatre 7-
in your lobby—
*' THIS HANDSOME CONFECTION DEPARTMENT EASILY AND
ECONOMICALLY CREATED WITH COLUMBUS SALES-MASTER CASES.
The main attraction starts in your lobby . . . with these beautiful
Columbus Coses. Each case is on individuol unit ... yet blends perfectly
with all others to give a tailored, custom-built oppearonce. Wide display
areas and adjustable glass shelves hold a volume of merchandise . . . while
the beauty of the finest cabinet woods, the brilliance of instant-starting
fluorescent lighting and the polished elegance of architectural bronze frames
create the eye-catching impact that stimulates impulse soles.
Il/usfrotio
£-700 pr
sho
i 3 It. X 3 It. Colun 3US E-700A pr ed at $2SS.OO ond 6 It.
t $198.00. Prices f C
r
B. Cohjr-.bus.
THE COLUMBUS SHOW CASE COMPANY
888 W. Fifth Ave., Columbus 12, Ohio
Please send me information on Theofre Displays
con convert o small spoce into larger profits.
BOXOFTICE : : February 4, 1950 35

I
New SMPE Name
Includes Television
The name of the Society of Motion Picture
Engineers was officially changed to
the Society of Motion Picture and Television
Engineers on Jan. 1, 1950, it was
announced by Earl I. Sponable, president
of the society.
Among the reasons for the change is the
increasing interest of society members in
television and the development of new television
techniques.
In commenting on the change, Sponable
extended an invitation to all television engineers
to join the society. "I am confident,"
he said, "that the art of motion pictures
and the art of television can reap benefits
from one another and jointly contribute to
the perpetuation and improvement of existing
standards in the pictorial rendition
of action."
The society was founded in 1916 as a
technical organization for the advancement
of the practice of motion picture engineering
and since then has pioneered in the
standardization of motion picture equipment,
mechanisms and practices.
A by-product of theatre refreshment
service is reported from Detroit where
pheasants swarm over drive-in theatre locations
of a morning to breakfast on the
popcorn and peanuts spilled the night before.
OHer Preiab Shadow
Box Screen Towers
Although the shadow box type screen
tower has been used by some of the oldest
drive-ins in the country and has long been
considered superior to the conventional
screen tower, engineering problems and
the extremely high cost of its construction
have restricted its use.
The "Miracle-Vue" screen tower, produced
by Drive-In Constructions, Inc., is
a combination of proven ideas, modem design,
permanent all steel construction and
a new special process screen surface. Sharper
vision is obtained by shielding the tilted
screen surface from surrounding glare and
by protecting the surface from the elements.
Fast erection and pennanence are
both obtained by the use of a new steel
screen panel with a highly reflective, flat
white coating bonded onto a chemically
prepared surface.
AH three sizes of the "Miracle-Vue"
shadow box screens are furnished from a
single plant either F.O.B. factory or erected,
complete with reinforced concrete
foundations, by the company's crews. A
series of designs are available for covering
the back of the tower when it is used as
flash on the roadside.
For your convenience in securing additional data
on items described, postage-paid reply cards
have been prov ded on poge 51.
Carpet Industry Boosts
Prices 5 to 8 Per Cent
In an effort to overcome profit losses
caused by rises in wool prices and a general
slump in sales, carpet manufacturers welcomed
the new year in with announcements
of price increases averaging 5 to 8
per cent.
The overall move was announced individually
by a dozen leading carpet companies
during the last two months of 1949.
Typical of the announcements was that
made by A&M Karagheusian, Inc., who
raised an average of 5 per cent on Gulistan
carpets due to a sharp rise in costs of raw
materials and the devaluation of the pound
sterling and the Argentine peso.
Last June when Karagheusian reduced
prices "to meet competition and re-establish
buying confidence in retailers and consumers,"
it was anticipated that the slight
downward trend in wool costs would continue.
When this did not happen and when
cotton prices rose also, the company decided
a price increase was indicated. The
devaluation of the pound sterling and the
peso also affected the industry. Instead
of the expected relief from the devaluation,
raw wool prices declined only 3.4 per cent
as compared to a 24.1 per cent rise in costs
from the time of the reduction of prices to
the announcement of the 5 per cent increase.
CARBONATORS AND
DRINK DISPENSERS
FOR THEATRES
^or oDrive ^n J and
^nealre

PROVIDENCE PIONEER BUILDS
W

The
International
Picture
Around the
Globe, Modern Design and
American Equipment Highlight
the World's Newest
Motion Picture
Houses
PARIS,
FRANCE
An unusual treatment of the theatre's
name is achieved in the outstanding exterior
design of the new Paramount Theatre
in Paris, France. The two attraction
boards employ Adler 16 and 10-inch letters
in Adler frames.
SAUDI
ARABIA
Residents of Ras Tanura, refinery headquarters
for the Arabian American Oil Co.
in Saudi Arabia, see their films in a thetre
which seats 400, embodies the most
modern equipment, including a perforated
plastic screen. The air conditioned auditorium
has blue-gray plastered walls, rustcolored
ceiling and turquoise velvet, flameproofed
stage drapes. A motored dimmer
controls the indirect lights in the acoustical
ceiling.
Projection from a fireproof booth is
through optical glass ports. A sudden rise
in temperature inside the booth will release
heavy steel port covers and flood booth arc
projectors with carbon dioxide gas.
Jutting, plastered pylons, Egyptian style,
mark the entrance to the theatre. Gray,
concrete walls blend with the coloring of
neighboring buildings. An open air bowl
for outdoor movies is built into the west
facade.
The theatre was designed by Spackman
and Peterson, San Francisco, architects,
and erected by Aramco with the aid
of Arab contractors and craftsmen.
38 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO
At the right, on this page and the one
facing, are illustrations of Mexico's newest
theatrical enterprise, the Estadio Theatre,
which had a gala premiere early in
December in Mexico City.
The theatre's ultra-smart front with
both vertical and horizontal name signs
was decked with floodlights in the best
Hollywood manner on opening night's performance
of Disney's "So Dear to My
Heart."
On this page are two illustrations of the
theatre's tastefully appointed auditorium
and foyer-lounge. The unusual dado and
proscenium arch treatment at the front
of the auditorium concentrates attention
on the screen area. The house accommodates
4,000 persons on a single floor.
The lower photo shows the expansive and
exquisite foyer-lounge area with indirect
lighting released from irregularly shaped
ceiling coves.
^
O a
IN THE BOOTH
Projection booths in two outstanding
new foreign theatres reveal that the very
latest in technical perfection is available
for the screening of American films in
almost any corner of the earth.
The upper illustration at the left is
of the booth in the recently remodeled
Teatro Imperio in Valparaiso, Chile, owned
by Eni'ique Scliappacasse. The booth is
equipped with Simplex E-7 projectors,
Simplex B-60 sound system. Peerless Magnarc
lamps, C&C six-phase rectifiers,
Snaplite lenses and a Walker screen. The
architect for the remodeling was Arnaldo
Barison.
The projection room of the Estadio Theatre
in Mexico City is equipped with the
most modem of DeVry "12000" series projectors,
DeVry "12000" series 120 watt
channel amplifiers, DeVry "Brilliante"
projection lenses. Strong Mogul lamps,
Strong rectifiers. Neumade cabinets and
GoldE automatic rewinders. Altec Lansing
loud speakers complete the sound installation.
Equipment was furnished through
Casa Ehlers, DeVi-y distributors throughout
Mexico.
Additional photographs of the exterior,
auditorium and foyer are above.
39

One of several decoratiye accents located
at strategic points throughout
the Alameda, this panel is done on
Plexiglas, heavily framed and dramatically
picked out with hidden light.
BRILLIANT
IN
DECOR
TEXAS THEATRE
by HANNS R. TEICHERT*
B,• RILLIANT IS THE WORD for the
Alameda Theatre. The doors of this largest
of Mexican motion picture houses in the
country opened not quite a year ago in
San Antonio, Tex.
Perhaps one of the most important factors
was its location as an integral part
of the Casa de Mexico International building,
where are also located such important
offices as those of the Mexican Consul
Qeneral, the Mexican Chamber of Commerce
and many others. The location of
the building itself is a most interesting
part of the whole purposeful program developed
by the Zaragoza Amusement Co.,
of which G. A. Lucchese is president.
The theme of the Alameda Theatre sets
the. spirit of the whole property, a brilliant
blending of the best of the ancient Mexican
culture with the best of the new, as
represented by modern Texas. Motifs ranging
back all the way to the Aztecs can be
traced in this fascinating interior, as well
as Mayan Indian influences with graceful
intei"weavings of other native Mexican
characteristics right up to the most modern
being shown in Mexico City today.
The various influences of Texas can similarly
be traced from the most primitive
pioneer cultures to the best and newest of
what bustling and prosperous Texas represents
today. It all offers such a wealth
of detail that anyone who visits the theatre
can find some portion representing his
which was one of the
own heritage . . .
intents of the whole scheme. With the ac-
complishment of this goal, the house becomes
a true goodwill builder.
Brilliant is literally the word for the
theatre's grand foyer. Against a magnificent
expanse of mirror that doubles the
size and effect of richness, is centered a
most ornamental fountain. The polished
aluminum figures representing The Dance
are illuminated to bring out their dynamic
qualities. These were especially designed by
the talented young San Antonio artist,
Pedro Teran, in association with our studio.
The base of this fountain holds a profusion
of tropical greenery, and is constructed
of colorful tiles which are used
extensively throughout the interior in the
Spanish tradition.
This focal point of all incoming eyes is
flanked by the two entrances to the auditorium
which are characterized by severe
geometric molding treatment. The doors
themselves dissolve into a framework of
The carved Plexiglas balustrade which surrounds the mezzanine of the Alameda ties in closely
with the living plants in the tiny garden at the left of this illustration. The floral theme is
further carried out along the background wall in hand-painted composition.
'Hanns R. Teichert Decorating Co.
40 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

A point of great interest in the Alameda auditorium
is the graceful waterfall curtain which
encases the stage and proscenium. The ornate
dado of irregular pattern divides the curtain
from dramatic black light murals.
softening curves. This latter feeling is
carried still further in the massive molding
outlining the rhythmic opening in the
ceiling up to the mezzanine. Here the
curves are dramatized by a Plexiglas balustrade
lavishly curved with tropical floral
motifs. This feature carries the brilliance
of the great mirror up and around the
mezzanine while its exciting carvings glow
and glitter as they catch the light from
various sources.
Cai-peting in allied tropical floral pattern
and in tones that blend with the native
coloring of the titles completes this most
dramatic foyer, as far as its effect on the
the first floor.
On the mezzanine foyer the impression
is one of unity with the floor below but
in a completely different expression. The
feature of the carved Plexiglas balustrade
can here be studied in greater detail, and
it will be appreciated how gracefully it
swings into the planting area at the extreme
left where the motifs of the Plexiglas
are practically duplicated in this most
charming indoor garden. Expert lighting
accents the feature to the best advantage.
A further correlation of the tropical plant
motif is to be seen in the composition hand
painted along the far wall. Here fantastic
orchids and other heroic-sized plant forms
are inteiTVOven in a blend of colors of
Mexican flavor to delight the eye.
Lest this, along with the previously noted
floral carpeting, include too many patterned
surfaces, the severely plain tile supporting
the Plexiglas balustrade and the
great solid ceiling area overhead acting as
a reflecting surface for the noteworthy
chandelier, are adequate counterbalance.
The wall opposite the floral composition
is broken by doors to the auditorium and
such necessities as drinking fountain
niches, decoratively and practically set into
tile. The patterns of this special tile are
largely taken from fine old Talavera
theriies, a proud tradition of Mexican art.
Interspersed throughout the theatre and
serving as a contrast for the floral effects
are decorative accents in the ultramodern
style with illuminated Plexiglas compositions
suggesting the glories of the Lone
Star State or similar symbolic themes. The
styling here is of major interest, and the
refreshing note of contrast it provides.
It is in the auditorium that the brilliance
of the Alameda reaches its climax.
A few issues previous to this, in our article
on "black light murals," we discussed in
detail the spectacular compositions on the
auditorium side walls designed by Pedro
Teran and executed by Prank Lackner of
this studio. One of these murals is shown
in our illustration above so it can be seen
in relationship to the rest of the area.
Perhaps first we had better start with
the vast expanse of lavishly draped waterfall
curtains that encase the stage and
proscenium. These are of richest gold color,
indirectly lighted from the top, and are
some of the most extensive ever hung in
this manner. Their size alone makes a
magnificent foil for the tremendously
scaled three-dimensional molding that
marks off the area for the side walls and
weaves along the solid surface ceiling.
This feeling for marking off areas in
rhythmic sweeps is further carried out
along the top of the dado where smaller
scaled three-dimensional molding undulates
to the rear of the auditorium where it
forms an ornate arch. Loosely confined between
these boundaries are the murals.
These are executed in fluorescent colors,
mainly Mexican blues, greens and roses,
and are activated with "black light" so that
they glow richly.
The composition on one side depicts
the history of Mexico from the days of the
Aztec and Mayan Indians through the conquest
by Cortez up to the present glories of
modern Mexico City. The other side shows
the history of Texas from the time of the
arrival of the first pioneers, through its
early colonial days and up to its present
state of advanced agricultural and industrial
development. These two murals extend
along the walls both below and above
the balcony, the larger portion being above
and extending to the back walls in interesting
undulations of color.
When this theatre was first conceived by
Lucchese and the late great architect, N.
Straus Nayfach, it was hoped that it would
fulfill many needs and purposes. Now, completed
by Clarence Rinard, Bernard Mc-
Mahon and Russell White, the plan can
be said to have succeeded splendidly.
A final element of the Alameda's success
is a report that real estate in the surrounding
few blocks has risen several times in
value, and that many nearby business men
are renovating their own structures.
In the grand foyer, tloor-to-ceiling mirroring
on either side of (/le drinking fountain adds
depth. Polished aluminum figures, dramatically
lighted, top the fountain column.
BOXOFFICE
: : Februarj- 4, 1950 41

The recent inouguration of Phil
Isley's de luxe Capitan Theatre in
Pasadena, Tex., contrasts sharply
with his f rst theatre, the Airdrome
in Corpus Christi, which opened in
1908 with a Motiograph gas picture
machine which occasionally
exploded and ruined the clothing
of nearby patrons.
Isley's theatrical career has, indeed, been varied
from the days he trouped with a one-man roadshow
making one and two-day stands. Later he operated
theatres in Iowa, Oklahoma and Missouri.
In 1926 and 1927 he joined W. P. Moron in develop
ing a circuit of 22 theatres through Missouri, Kansas
and Oklahoma. A childhood ambition to own a circus
flared briefly into reality for one season in 1934.
The partnership with Moran was dissolved in 1940
when the circuit was sold to the Griffith circuit, and
Isley once more storted out to develop his present
circuit, building nine Texas theatres in eight months
before war restrictions froze further expansion.
Not the least of Isley's promotional interests is the
acting career of h s daughter, known to movie fans as
Jennifer Jones.
THE GRAND TOUCH IN TEXAS
A SHORT SIXTEEN MILES from the
world famous Shamrock hotel in downtown
Houston, Tex., Phil Isley recently opened
the latest addition to his circuit of Texas
and California theatres with all the combined
showmanship characteristic of Hollywood
and the Isley touch.
The attractive front is finished in glazed
buff brick with a generous use of neon
tubing and a colorful mural over the V-
shaped marquee. The mural features a
pirate and a galleon which stands out
sharply against a red background.
The theatre's spacious inner-lobby is covered
with sea-green carpeting figured by
light orange sea shells and rope. The impressive
concession counter is designed
along the lines of a ship and is finished
with cushioned yellow leatherette.
Seating was supplied by American Desk
Mfg. Co. and Ki-oehler Mfg. Co. The indirect
neon lighting inside the house as
well as on the marquee was designed and
built by Texas Neon Sign Co. of Houston.
The interior walls are painted with nautical
designs in gold leaf on a dark background.
Ed Carleton, who has been with the Isley
organization for seven years, is manager
of the 1,621-seat Capitan.
CREDITS
Architect: Raymond F. Smith
Contractor: Corrigan Construction Co.
Decorator: Nat Smythe
Carpeting: Alexander Smith
Lamps: Peerless Mognarc
Lens: Bousch & Lomb
Projector: Simplex E-7
Screen: Walker plastic
Sound: Simplex 4-Star
Popcorn Popper: Manley
This view of the foyer shows the stairway in the background and the modern Coves running the length of the auditorium contain indirect lighting. The
refreshment stand in the center. The massive beamed effect of ceiling panes brilliance of wall murals and the bold touch in dado treatment at the front
provides on interesting lighting treatment for the area. of the house are points of interest.
42 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

NEW FOR 1950
the NEW
Jam-packed with great new features,
the new Simplex In-a-Car
Speaker puts you way ahead in
patron satisfaction—at amazingly
low cost.
y/m/J 9^* *^^ "®^ tonal fidelity —
^ '^" with new type volume control
that provides complete range from
full-off to full-on.
Yti/J 9®' "*^ design —
^^" simplicity that assures substantially
longer life at lowest basic maintenance
expense.
wiUm
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waterproof speaker unit, waterproof
speaker mounting and vacuum impregnated
waterproof internal transformer.
wfiuM
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light — which means new convenience
for your patrons and new protection
of your equipment.
wfm
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of the die-cast alloy casings.
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new tamper-proof effi-
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You can pay more money — but
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BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 "Everything for the Drive-In Theatre"
43

,
II
1
11
Evaporative Condensers
Ease Water Shortage
Next summer should see a decided upswing
in the number of evajwrative condensers
used with packaged air conditioning
units, according to James F. Dailey,
president of the Typhoon Air Conditioning
Co., Inc. The problem of supplying water
for water-cooled condensers became acute
to theatre owners during last summer's
hot dry spell. With many cities restricting
the use of city water for air conditioning
as a precaution against low water supply,
the evaporative condensers are answering
the problem, Dailey said.
1 1 1
1 1 II
J 1 1 II
nil
mil
Twenty-Foot Limit tor
Black Light Throw
A guide for determining the effectiveness
of black light over various areas has been
set up by Switzer Bros., Inc.
At five feet they say that 250-watt black
light units will cover a 16-foot area with a
differential of ten to one between the center
and the outside. At ten feet the spread
is 20 feet with a six to one differential, and
at 15 feet the spread is 20 also with a three
to one differential.
A 100-watt flood will black light a fluorescent
area four feet in diameter at a
distance of four feet; six feet in diameter
six feet away.
. . . i4.i ummwm^mm i^^^ms^mm i mm^mm
1 1 1 i
^ 1^
III
^1 I
11 1 a
SB
TRAFFIC
8 1
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jMiiJIlimiiMiMi^^ I a s a
J M^aMW^IPV^^^WT^^^Va i
E Z Y - R U G
COLORED RUBBER LINK
T T I N G
Corrugated ridges in the Unks scrape the dirt from the ieet, trap it
in the openings. Bolls up for easy removal ol dirt.
Prevents slipping
trip beveled edge*
Beautiiies
any entrance.
t iloors. Redu
liability oi law suits. Non-
Made in any width up to 8 ieet — any length
choice of pattern, embl noxne lettering.
BE DIRT WISE — BUY MAT WISE!
AMERICAN MAT CORPORATION
"America's Largest Matting Specialists"
Name
-A«W
1719 Adams Street
Toledo. Ohio
Please send free folder, "A Mat for Every Purpose."
D Please send prices on Elzy-Kug Matting.
Please send information and prices on D .\merlcan Counter-Tred Malting
for candy counters and popcorn machines; D
Traffic-Tred Matting;
n Do-Ail All-Purpose Rubber and Cord .Matting; D Evcr-Tred
Vinyl Plastic Link Matting.
Street
Theatre City & State
IN CANADA OFFICES: American Mat Corporation. Ltd.
Canada Trust Building, Windsor. Ontario
FACTORY: West Lome, Ontario
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ea 8 a a
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NTS Begins
Year
With Sales Meet
Amid optimistic predictions that 1950
will be a good year, not only for its organization
but for the industry as a whole.
National Theatre Supply staged a threeday
convention of its executives and branch
managers in Hollywood January 23-25,
marking the beginning of the company's
25th year of operations. Those in attendance
viewed the latest developments in
projection and sound equipment, theatre
seats, power conversion equipment, marquee
letters, display frames, television units
suitable for installation in theatre lobbies,
and other equipment and supply items.
Host at the conclave was Oscar Oldknow,
NTS vice-president headquartering in Los
Angeles. He and President Walter E. Green
conducted the business sessions.
NTS headliners for the year are the new
Simplex X-L projector mechanism and
sound systems, which were exhaustively
demonstrated for company officials and
sales personnel. Also on display were such
items as the new National lamphouse and
power conversion equipment, a new National
converter, the new American de luxe loge
seat, a new Simplex drive-in speaker, and
General Precision Television's 27x36-inch
screen video unit for theatre lobbies.
President Green, in a keynote speech,
told the conventioneers that NTS is "going
stronger than ever" and looks to a future
"filled with even greater progress."
Oldknow infoiTOed the delegates that
1950 has been formally dubbed "Walter E.
Green Year" in honor of the company's top
executive.
Next managers' meeting will be held in
Chicago early in 1951, it was announced.
Following tlie close of business sessions
January 25, the remainder of the week was
devoted to social activities and recreation
for delegates and their wives, including
sigiitseeing tours, visits to studios and
radio stations, and other events.
In addition to Green and Oldknow, NTS
executives attending included W. J. Turnbull,
A. F. Baldwin, J. E. Currie, A. J. Lindsley
and J. W. Servies, of the company's
general office in New York. Branch managers
on hand included:
Lloyd C. Owenby. Los Angeles; Osccrr L. Ciniquy,
Seattle; R. P. Rosser jr., Chicago; C. Williamson,
Detroit; B- N. Peterson, Indianapolis; H. McKinney,
I.
Boston; V. G. Sondlord, Buffalo; W. J. Hutchins, New
Haven and Albany; A. G. Smith, New York; R. W.
Pries, Philadelphia; A. C. Schuyler, Des Moines;
A. I. Larsen, Milwaukee; A. T. Crcfwmer, Minneapolis;
G. K. Slipper, Omaha; W. C. Earle, St.
Louis; W. G. Boling, Charlotte; I. C. Brown, Atlanta;
R. L. Bostick, Memphis and Dallas; T. W. Neely,
New Orleans; I. I. Watkins, Oklahoma City; J. J.
Morgan, Denver; J. B. Stone, Denver; Arthur de
Steiano, Kansas City; H. Kelley, Cincinnati; N. F.
I.
Williams. Pittsburgh; F. I. Masek. Cleveland; Heaton
Randall, San Francisco, and Harry D. Epting, Dallas.
Representing the General Precision Equipment
Corp., NTS' parent company, were President Hermann
G. Place and Earle G, Hines, chairman ol
Ihe board. On hand for the International Projector
Corp., a GPE subsidiary, were President R. B.
Tompkins, Herb Griliin, Arthur E. Meyer and Barry
Passman. Also in attendance were;
Arthur I. Palmer, Ampro Corp.; C. A. Hahn, J. E.
McAuley Corp.; J. H. Ewing and H. P. Niemann,
Herlner Electric Co.; H. F. Robinson, Dick Vami
and "Red" Zimmerman, American Seating Co., and
A. J. Hatch, Strong Electric Co.
44 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: February
VlMae£oovs32e^^
5i>Vl
or the combination
of high-quality and high-value
this Irwin "Comet" Chair establishes
a new standard — invites
comparison. It's smartly styled
and replete with structural superiorities.
For instance: The smooth
steel seat bucket completely seals
working parts — no bolts or screws
to snag clothing; a silent automatic
seat lifting mechanism lifts
seats to identical three-quarter
fold; backs are adjustable for
varying pitch; there's a compensating
feature for radius and inaccuracies
in floor; closed steel,
full depth panel center standards; full length back panel to protect seat cushion,
with curled edge in back to protect upholstering; and it is, by long odds, the easiest
chair on the market to reupholster. Compare it for style, for construction and price.
It represents an outstanding value in theatre seating. Deliveries are made with
reasonable promptness.
GRAND
BOXOFFICE :
4. 1950
R
Write, NOW, for complete details.
rwin Seat In
ff^
M N
M

ANNOUNCE NEW SIMPLEX
PROJECTOR MECHANISM
New Model Includes Many
Projection Design 'Firsts'
JJate in January the International
Projector Corp. invited members of the
press to a factory preview of their new
Simplex XL projector mechanism, the result
of five years of research, design, tooling
and field testing in the projection
booths of several large theatre circuits.
According to Simplex engineers, the new
mechanism incorporates several radical
departures in design and operation from
previous Simplex models or other existing
projectors.
On the operating side of the projector
head there is a large glass panel which,
together with the illuminated film compartment,
enables the projectionist to
watch the entire mechanism while it is
running. The vital aperture area is also
exposed to view by means of an enlarged
sightbox having eye-protective glass which
precludes the need for stooping or squinting
in an awkward position.
With high-speed lenses the order of today
and tomorrow, the Simplex X-L is equipped
with a new lens mount which can accommodate
any projection lens up to and including
four inches in diameter and having
a speed of f:1.6. Many theatres, and
particularly drive-ins, have been severely
handicapped in the past by the absence of
such a large lens mount. This Simplex X-L
mount meets all existing requirements.
Quick, precise focusing of the lens is
simplified enormously by means of the
unique Screenscope device, an innovation
in projection practice.
The film compartment is of gleaming
white enamel, and all corners are rounded
so as to collect a minimum of dust and
dirt and to render removal quick and easy.
The built-in changeover unit is of the instant-acting,
zipper type which is designed
to give unfailing, trouble-free service.
Reld tests under actual theatre operating
conditions for more than a year indicate
that the Simplex X-L lubrication system,
termed Spray-O-Matic, is one of the most
efficient ever devised for so precise a
mechanism as a motion picture projector.
The entire area of this sealed-drive compartment
is sprayed continually by a fine
film of oil which reaches every drive unit
down to the last gear tooth. Still, because
of the seal, no oil can reach the film.
The oil-feed unit is simplicity itself, comprising
a high-speed pump, a filter and a
pipe. An oil gauge, with a petcock for
drainage, indicates the oil level at a glance.
Simplex engineers tell how the projectionist
in one of the theatres which tested the
X-L mechanism for more than a year
stated that the petcock was of little use,
since he hadn't changed the oil for 16
months and it was still so clean that he
could "almost drink it."
This single-unit, built-in rear shutter increases
light transmission without even a suggestion of
travel ghost. Angled plate between baffle assembly
and cooling plate is the changeover
dowser.
One of the most radical departures from
conventional projection practice is the
conical shutter used in the Simplex X-L.
This single-unit, built-in rear shutter is
so positioned as to intercept the light beam
at its narrowest point, only I's inch from
the aperture. The purpose of this new design
is to effect the maximum transmission
and the most sharply defined cutoff
of light possible, with fewer parts, less
gearing, and quieter operation.
The extremely close positioning of this
simplified shutter to the aperture enables
it to serve another important purpose,
since it caiTies on its film side a series of
small vanes which effectively spray cooling
air over both aperture and film.
Adjustment of this conical shutter is
easily accomplished on the Simplex X-L
by merely turning a knurled knob atop the
projector housing. The need for changing
the relationship of driven gear to the
driving gear is eliminated with the added
advantage of equal wear on the contacting
parts.
Another innovation on the Simplex X-L
projector is that both upper and lower
sprockets have 24 teeth, and they operate
at only 240 rpm. This design provides
8 more teeth than the conventional type
sprocket and a reduction in speed of 33 Mj
per cent over ordinaiy sprockets.
This increase in the number of sprocket
teeth has two obvious advantages: (1) the
greater radivis enables a wider bend, a tjetter
wrap of the film and minimizes the
danger of weak patches coming apart and
eases the transit of damaged film, and (2)
the reduction in speed should effect a
substantial decrease in sprocket, gear and
bearing wear.
Both sprocket assemblies are unit-constructed
as an aid to improved perfonnance
and easier maintenance.
The main gear drive assembly of the
Simplex X-L, a single vertical unit, is extremely
simplified, operating in sealed ball
bearings. According to Simplex engineers
this effects a reduction in mechanical load
over conventional practice of 80 per cent
at the start and of 66% per cent while
the mechanism is loinning.
Since the great majority of projector
breakdowns are caused by excessive mechanical
load in both starting and running
the mechanism, the Simplex X-L gear assembly
should practically eliminate gear
stripping and effect a radical decrease in
Micromatic Screenscope, a projection "first," is
a built-in unit which utilizes an 8-power lens
with prism to eliminate guesswork and insure
swift, precise focusing with every type of film
print.
46 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

unning wear and in operating costs.
The entire gear train turns on sealed
ball bearings, sleeve bearings having been
eliminated. Friction is completely suppressed,
thus reducing the mechanical
load over all. The gears in this assembly
are of case-hardened, polished steel
meshed with a phenolic fabric made especially
for gears.
Contributing to long gear life in the
Simplex X-L is the fact that during the
necessary frequent framing operation all
gear teeth always mesh with the same
mated gear, thus effecting an even distribution
of wear for all teeth.
The micromatic Screenscope, mentioned
previously, is a projection "first. This
built-in unit utilizes an 8-power lens with
prism to insure swift, precise focusing of
every type of film print. Guesswork is
eliminated, as the projectionist need only
sight through the Screenscope while he
manipulates the focusing knob nearby.
Simplified gear train of the Simplex X-L, a single vertical assembly, effects a reduction of
mechanical load over conventional projectors of 80 per cent at the start and of 66 2/3 per cent
while the mechanism is running.
The Simplex X-L intermittent movement, of
completely new design, has the flywheel mounted
directly on the cam, eliminating intermediate
gearing and resulting in less wear, quieter operation,
and sharply reduced maintenance costs.
The Simplex X-L intei-mittent movement
is of completely new design. The
flywheel is mounted directly on the cam,
which enables the elimination of intermediate
gearing and results in less wear,
quieter operation and sharply reduced
maintenance costs. A film of filtered oil
flows over all working surfaces and carries
away even the most minute particle
of every foreign substance, without permitting
any oil to .reach the film.
One of the best operating aids yet developed
and another projection "first" is the
frame lock indicator. Heretofore no projector
provided a sure means for determining
whether the star and cam of the
intermittent movement were in a true
locked position, a requisite for correct
framing of the image.
The distinct white lines and pointer on
the knob at the fore end of the intermittent
movement give instant visible evidence
of this lock.
The extra-long tension shoes of the film
gate exert an equally exact tension on both
edges of the film. These tension shoes are
practically self-adjustable laterally to accommodate
varying film width.
The knob marked "Increase" operates a
five-step control which locks at each position
and applies the correct tension for
all types of film prints—new and green,
old and shrunken, thicker or thinner.
The film trap has a curved plate which
enables proper positioning of the film between
the guide rollers and insures a true,
Reverse side of upper magazine has observation
window and film footage markings, in addition
to light switch for illuminating interior.
direct path to the guide rails. Just above
the film aperture is a framing aperture
which, illuminated when the housing door
is opened, affords precise, quick framing.
Ample "finger room" makes threading a
fast, easy operation. Both the film gate
and trap are removable.
Simplex X-L magazines are Vi inch
deeper on each side of the reel, thus preventing
reel contact with the side walls
and allowing the projectionist more
working space. The upper magazine has a
large observation window with illuminated
film footage markings for either four or
five-inch reel hubs, and even the small
two-inch reel hub is visible at an appreciable
distance. Improved fire valves and
rollers are easily cleaned.
On the rear side of the upper magazine
is another observation window with film
footage markings. A light switch is provided
for illuminating the interior. The
reel spindle has a backlash-free friction
device, and holdback tension is easily adjustable
in steps. There is no end thrust
with the self-lubricating Oilite bearings.
The lower magazine also has an observation
window. The reel spindle is fulcrummounted
and will accommodate any size
reel hub and maintain positive even tension.
The Uni-Tension takeup assembly utilizes
an all ball-bearing cone drive which
eliminates friction and provides for a selfadjusting,
uniform tension. Provision is
made for smooth operation over a wide
latitude, since reel hubs of from two to five
inches may be used. The takeup assembly
is available with either round or V belt.
BOXOFFICE : : Februarj' 4, 1950 47

ircular murol, viewed first in .
'
'
light and then in "black" light, ilk
the outstanding effects obtainabi
GLOCRAFT Black Light products.
GLOCRAFT Fluorescent Paints and Theatrical Black
Light equipment are available from
siiin[ii
Byiii[iis.iH.
4732 St. Clair Avenue • Cleveland 3, Ohio
"The First Name in Fluorescence"
THIS COIN OPERATED
SHOE SHINER . . EARNS
Bell 6f Howell Present
New Lens Series
Four of a new series of seven lenses for
lemm motion picture cameras are now
ready for delivery by the Bell & Howell Co.
The new optics are said to be the most
highly corrected lenses of comparable focal
lengths and apertures ever developed for
lemm film, and are claimed to be the first
offering a constant degree of magnification
from one lens in the series to another.
Fox and RCA Join
In TV Research
The signing of a new contract for cooperative
research in the advancement of
large-screen television in the motion picture
industry was annoimced recently by
the 20th Century-Fox Film Corp. and the
Radio Corp. of America.
Representing expansion as well as continuation
of the cooperative program carried
on by these two organizations for the
past two years, the new agreement calls
for delivery of several new RCA television
units, including one of the early commercial-type
instantaneous theatre TV systems
and the first production model of
RCA's new intennediate-film TV system.
The two corporations, whose cooperative
research to date has contributed heavily to
the development of commercial theatre
television equipment, will continue individual
development work. Earl I. Sponable,
technical director of the film corporation
and a pioneer in theatre television development,
will continue to direct his company's
research in this field imder the new contract.
The contract is the outgrowth of
negotiations between Sponable and Barton
Kreuzer, manager of Theatre and Film Recording
Activities of the RCA engineering
products department.
Build Personality Into
Your Boxoffice
"What's playing today?" is a question
which may be asked by telephone of a
theatre cashier hundreds of times a week.
When answering she must remember that
her voice is the only link between prospective
theatregoers and actual ticket sales at
the boxoffice.
At the Eastwood Theatre, 1,000-seat subsequent
run house in suburban Hartford,
Conn., telephone calls are treated with serious
respect. For example, whenever a caller
requests information on a motion picture
playing at another theatre, that information
is given cheerfully. "After all," says
Manager Thomas G. Grace, "we're all in
the same business, and if a person happens
to call the wrong number and ask about
a film, he should be given courteous attention."
Sales appeal can be added to the boxoffice
through a tieup with a local florist.
For a number of years, the Eastwood boxoffice
has always displayed a bouquet of
flowers donated by an East Hartford florist.
In return for this courtesy, the theatre
displays a 2x6-inch card bearing the florist's
name and the line, "These flowers
through courtesy of . . ." It's a unique attraction
at the theatre and receives many
favorable comments.
Carpet Plans Go
'Down a Manhole'
Decoration of the Orpheum Theatre in
Whitefish, Mont., suffered quite a setback
recently when plans Tor laying new carpet
went down a manhole!
The contractor who was to have laid
new rugs on the main floor is in a Seattle.
Wash., hospital after laying his feet into
an open manhole.
Wenzel's New 1950
COMPLETE PROJECTOR
EQUIPMENT
TREMENDOUS PROFITS ON
SMALL INVESTMENT.
For information WHITE TODAY!
FALCON COMPANY
67G— 12th Detroit 8. Mich.
-_ ,
: {
.
ITT
I
MANUFACTURERS OF ^
Ww^-^^ffV
Projectors, Sound Heads,
Bases, Magazines, Sound
Systems, Replacement ::':;::;::;:::::;:::::::
Parts, Accessories, etc. ::;:;::;:":::: ::::::
*»
Send ,t
,
^m^'^^K.-\
scriptive circulars, giv- fttSfl.^?^'*^"?'
ing full details of the
many advantages of this
new WENZEL product.
WATCH FOR IT!
The Morch Air Conditioning Issue, out March 4,
treats the subject of year-round temperature control
for the health and comfort of theotre patrons;
with emphasis on its boxoffice odvantages.
WX-46
Amplifier
WENZEL PROJECTOR CO. \
2505-19 S. State St., Chicago 16, III.
)
48
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

. NEW
!
sN^'
SUCCESSFUL
ERVICE
EARS AHEAD
FRAWIES
ADLER s.

Hundreds of Theatre Owners Have
a Single Summer
Discovered that in
CHRYSLER AIRTEMP
PAYS FOR ITSELF!
Banish "Box Office Slump" this summer. Cool, dry, refreshing air conditioning
will play to S.R.O. when you install Chrysler Airtemp—the original "packaged"
air conditioning—in your theatre.
Chrysler Airtemp "Packaged" Air Conditioners are factory-tested, factoryassembled—the
finest value in air conditioning. More of these units have been
sold than any other make. Each unit has the famous Sealed Radial Compressor,
protected against dust, dirt and moisture, and backed by 13 years of proved
performance. Equipment to fit every need—Single or Multiple "Packaged"
Units or Central Systems. Chrysler Airtemp Air Conditioning cools—dehumidifies—
ventilates—circulates . . . Rates top billing in any theatre . . . And pays
its own way in increased patronage. Get all the facts. Mail the coupon or call
your local Airtemp dealer today. (See Yellow Pages of Phone Book.) Easy
Installment Terms if desired.
MAIL THIS
COUPON TODAY
AIRTEMP DIVISION OF CHRYSLER CORPORATION
DAYTON 1, OHIO
Send Air Conditioning information to:
City _2one Sfate_
50 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

.
'
For MORE INFORMATION on any Product Advertised
in this issue or mentioned in the New Equipment and
news poges or for copies of Monufacturers' Literature
listed herein — Use Postcards Below.
REAiiEiis'
mm
NEW EQUIPMENT and DEVELOPMENTS
Briefed from fhe full descriptions starting on page 59 Nun.l«r
U PEAKER INTERCOM SYSTEM
A°«
' ""^ '''"•P 7° '=?il.^^'','lf^;;; VnViJ1^^
.../f^
A s,mpi* low OS InUrcommunlcaUon system which plu^s "dole Products Co. has released a hot drink unit which can
into st.rdard electric outlets is offered by Super ^Ug. Corp. be added to their present three-drlnl; models during cold
weather The regular unit may be replaced In summer.
Tho iinii cnmcs with two stations. -
.
GREATER BRILLIANCE WITH NEW LENS. .,...,• ..;P-353 OFFER FREE BOOK MATCHES TO ""AILERS. •
.P-365
Free book mutches are being offered retailers of Old Nek
'
and Bit-0-Honey candy bars as an aid to customer goodwill.
i \,n, desl,:ned lor two and lour-scrcen drive-in theatres
I'nnico oil uic vovers is ..
'••'";"-"
ADD TWO TRANSFORMER MODELS.
P-366
~
' added l«0 models to Its line
has been announced by
be released for sale soon
OFFER CHOICE OF SPEAKER CASE
Eiilier a pressed steel or die-cast aluminum speaker case
,3 a ble in he 1950 drl.e-in speaker line of Autocrat.
"r netds ri.e"""d -hard
Inc Many extras are available at additional cost,
•icVVream-iend'er -are both
con'i,;."d in three freezer models by Mills Industries. Inc.^^
"?''e"caMlght''slandVrS"encl-osed -In a -riVbed- giass-.casing
can be leiiered to car.y Entrance or EMt message at dr.ve-ins.
Cap llcht coiers close-in urea. „_
vend «iih a portable soda fountain which weighs less than
40 pounds and mamlains 3.5 carborjation.
ELECTRIC GRILli FOR FRANKFURTERS .......P-367
llevolv lig stainless sieei ruueia tu..i... b - -^- -
of a lnrmatti,rof Plastic woven on ritst resisting steel
wire One surface is corruRated to prevent slipping.
^'S^^l^^:\^*^"-bin;d-io-produceynew^1^
fabric for theatre drapery which is declared to be fire-
the manufacturer.
resistant. Knoll Associates
EFFECTIVE COUNTER
is
OR WALL SIGN „•
A p astic cur>ed-lace Panel illuminated by a
.
fluorescent
new
tube provides brilliant display In pastel colors In the
Ernco I'roducts sign. „.
PROTECTIVE RUBBER MATS ; ;«' 7 „/„
A new all-purpose rubber matting designed to afford p o-
either plastic or tile
*''i/r?,^nL;° ,re^^ree?n.l^^e';:!dded•t•o thi-il e^
^- -'^ tecllon to the most expensive carpeting is announced by the
rbt^uiiii^niirsv^-"-
finishes are of beaiiiiiuuy-graini^ "uu" „„ „. .i-rlf- d ?fin United States Rubber KuUDer Co. «.». -
Waterproof adhesive "« «"bber r p ast c^^p-3^
.
^J'^^'',^,,,,^ washroom accessory. .,, ...... ... .p-372
A Discarded cigars ai
rubber setting. use ol,
new adhesive with
Prompt
waterproof qu.illiies '«
cemen ed surfaces is claimed ty„n'"''L''"'-"-
„ .jg,
balla'ts pfoduced by the Sola Electric Co. eliminates starter
switches, is small and lightweight.
r,se Co A choice of finishes is available,
Sit 13 avaUable also in twln-taced screen.
How to Use These
I READERS' BUREAU COUPONS
accessory for men's washrooms, known as the Buttray
SIMPLEX PROJECTOR MECHANISM (See pane 46)..N-373
"a new pro"etor mechanism produced by ^ nternatlonal
Projector Corp. has recently been previewed in the east.
Many innovations for improved operation are reported.
DRIVE-IN EQUIPMENT PACKAGE (See paje 56) . . .N-374
.
The Bailantyne Co., pioneers in drive-in package plans, now
offe a single-order deal for equipment only, in cases where
the evhibltor wishes to handle his o«n construe Ion.
LOW COST DRIVE-IN SURFACING (See pane 12)....N-375
The use of a new penetrating liquid for the surfacing of raw
earth at drive-ins Is described as affording a low cost tre»tment
tor ramps and driveways.
AMNdUNCE NEW DRIVE-IN SPEAKER (See page 23) .
.N-376
S^Sverrt^rdXertrii^r^r^aiS
from excess humidity. ,--
RCA JOINS DRIVE-IN PACKAGERS (See page 22)....N-377
lUe Kadio Coipo.at.on ol '7'-'''" '''"'j,,"?;'
{"rone coui-
LITERATURE ,.,
Briefed from the descriptions on po^e 6i NumDet
PACKAGED AIR CONDITIONERS
• .•'•^''^*
euudiiouum units and many accompanying pieces of
Air
eumir such Ii bluv>ers. grille registers and unit heater,
Ui.
a?" Hnbed 111 iiteiature of the Uaslhigs Air Loiiduloii..*
*'
A io"dT
'
"mb'ini ibe' 'eifJcu'viiuVs' ii ' the" El'eclroaue in
geneiaiii.g ozone lu remove oduis Itom Llie a.r Is onered by
tlettloalie Sales, inc.
USE OF FLUORESCENT PAINTS
,
...L-1U16
,«uil.,
Ihe diuvrjliees ui pho^plioiesellig fiuoresc.ug and
how they should be
.
" applied, what they "» ^"x, "''
theatre owner and how Ibey can best be used Is oflered by
Inc.
Limter Chemicals,
COOLER AND FOUNTAIN LINE. ......••...-•.•• -^-iUI'
offered by the
n,„ »aier couleis and druiking fountains
Vhn, MU Co are illuslraled and desciibed Ui a series Ol
fiugle-she'l buliethis. The Urm also produces the Oasis air
drier unit, which b desetibed.
AIR-BORNE GERM KILLERS I.'", d„i
Two booklets describe baiiiiaire and Uygeaire units ol banitron
liic The units -re designed for theatre wash.ooms aiid
lounges where they are said to destroy a large percentage
of air-borne germs.
•
PORTABLE BLOWER UNIT
A portable electric blower which makes It possible to d.ect
.W ,r^^,
a stream of forced air where you want it is described In
two-color brochure of the Breuer Electric Co.
L-lO^ilO
SCREEN TOWER BLUEPRINT
A partially p. elabiieated screen tower Is Illustrated hi a
four- page btochure of Unit Structures, Inc. Featured s he
wTn screen model, complete with blueprinU and UislaU.tioa
progress piiuiu>. .
.„,,
'"ril':':.' pr'o^^il^^oatiii^- •to;-.-eU.: •cVn-c;eU-£.o«.
is described m the tour-page folder ottered by the WUbnr k
Williams Co.
Write here the key number jk I I
of the item that interests you ^ | |
I, Fill out completely a leporote coupon
for eoch New Equipment item.
State..
Street No
City
News orticle or Literature reference
The MODERN THEATRE Sect.on of BOXOFFICE (Feb. 1950)
(obove) which interests you. Likewise
Write here the key number ^j
for each Advertised Product (reverie
of the item thot interests you W \
<
tide of this sheet) obout which you
want more information. Put only one
O Nome
Theatre or Circuit..
key number in each square.
.2 >
Street No —
State..
Write fcere the kev "'""'>" 41 City
//L I
ol tke ilem Iko' io'e'«'« I'" T 1 ' T^ '
JOHNQDOB
w
^„.„c,„:;,
ouBEN.
-.-.-
SJH and MAtM . » —
%^.^.AiS
N£WB£RN.......
m
rb« MODE«N THEATRE S«tlonolBOXOFFICE
Name
Theatre or Circuit..
2. Use the outer card to request one
to four items, both cards if requesting
five to eight.
J, When you have filled out the coupons
for each request, detoch the
postcords ond mail. No postoge
needed in the U5. (Affix stamp in
Canada.)

READERS' BUREAU
A
For literature on products advertised or mentioned in this issue, see other
side of this sheet and read how to use the postcard coupons below.
PRODUCTS ADVERTISED IN THIS ISSUE
ADMISSION SIGNS
. . . Lamolite Products (Edjar Bowman) .64-8
AIR CONDITIONING
Chrysler Corp., Airtemp Division 50-A
National Entineering & Mfg. Co 54-B
Co., Inc., Marley The 66-A
ATTRACTION BOARDS AND LETTERS
Ad.tr Silhouette Letter Co 49-A
Wagner Sign Seririce, Inc 5-A
Poblocki & Sons 56-A & 57 -A
BLACK LIGHT
Swiber Brothers, Inc 48-A
CANDY DISPLAY CASES
Co. Columbus Showcase 35-B
CARBONS
See Projector Carbons
CARPETS
Alexander Smith & Masland 53-A
CONCESSION CONTRACTORS
Stortservice, Inc 20-C
CONCESSION EQUIPMENT, ORIVE-IN
Concession Supply Co 28-B
Poblocki & Sons 57-A
Service Walky Co 30-A
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS, DRIVE-IN
Ballantyne Co 18-A
Drive- In Constructors, Inc 21-A
RCA Theatre Equipment Division 2-A
COOLING TOWERS for AIR CONDITIONING
Co., Inc.. Marley The 66-A
DECORATIVE SERVICE
Novelty Scenic Studios, Inc 58-B
DISPLAY CASES, POSTER
56A
Poblocki & Sons
Uni.ersal Corporation 60-B
DRINK DISPENSERS, MANUAL
Anderson & Wagner, Inc 36-A
DRINKS. FOUNTAIN SYRUPS
Ale, Canada Dry Ginger Inc 33-A
E. The Charles H.res Co 34-A
DRIVE-IN THEATRE CONSULTANTS
Drive-in Tlieatre Service Co 23-A
EMERGENCY LIGHTING SYSTEMS
D. W. Onan & Sons, Inc 17-B
FOUNTAINS, SODA
See Drink Dispensers, Manual
FRANKFURTER GRILL
Alton Electronics 37-B
GRASS SEED & FERTILIZER for DRIVE-INS
Prunty Seed & Grain Co 35-A
HAND DRYERS, ELECTRIC
Chicago Hardware Foundry Co 54-
Electric-Aire Engineering Corp 60-A
HEATERS, IN-CAR for DRIVE-INS
National Heaters. Inc 19-A
Theatrecraft Mfg. Corp 16-3

Strand Theatre, AVit' York City
Tele Neijus Theatre, Cleveland, Ohio
For better business in 1950...
put your best foot forward now!
Business is on tlie carpet and carpet is our business
Central Theatre, Passaic, N. J.
Now, more than ever, you need an attractive lobby
to build your box office. Handsome, soundless
carpeting is the most important, single element in
good lobby decoration.
See the new weaves, textures, colors and patterns in
theater carpet by Alexander Smith and Masland.
Find out how little it will cost to make your lobby
really inviting. Phone your local Alexander
Smith-Masland contract carpet specialist today,
or write to Alexander Smith-Masland Contract
Department, 29.5 Fifth Avenue, New York Cit^
BOXOmCE :
Alexander Smith
and
C.H. Masland
CONTRACT CARPETS
295 Fifth A'veniu, Ne^v York 16, Neiv York
: February 4, 1950 53

I
j
GIVES YOU CLEANER,
MORE SANITARY WASHROOMS
Compare present day towel costs with modern
Soni-Dri electric hand dryers. You'll discover
amazing savings over towels . . . and the time
and trouble of servicing empty towel cabinets
and waste containers is eliminated completely!
New, foster-drying Sani-Dri provides automatic
24-hour hand or face drying service with a stream
of hot air . . . the most sanitary method known!
New heating element and faster-flow nozzle drys
hands or face faster than ever before!
Eiseman Is Architect
For Massachusetts Houses
William Riseman Associates have been
named architects for a 1,000-seat theatre
being built in Swampscott. Mass. The theatre
is to be located on Fisherman's beach
facing the water.
In addition to the new theatre, Riseman
also is working on remodeling of several
Massachusetts theatres including the Coolidge
Corner Theatre at Brookline which is
receiving a new front and lobby. The
Colonial, Brockton Interstate house, is getting
a new lobby and complete repainting,
and E. M. Loew's Strand in New Bedford is
being equipped with a new candy stand,
new carpets and new seats.
Paramount in Des Moines
Is Completely Remodeled
Extensive remodeling of the Paramount
Theatre in Des Moines, Iowa, has recently
been completed without the interruption
of a single show. Major structural changes
in the interior included a new foyer. A
new front and a 55-foot neon sign were
also added. Indirect lighting and a new
air distribution system with outlets in the
ceilings were included in the program.
Hanns Teichert handled the interior decorations
which include a wall mural in the
foyer which was awarded a first prize at
the World Art Exhibit in New York. The
lobby is faced with a solid front of heavy
all-glass doors and the powder room was
given a large mirror wall.
AIR-RITE
Film Supply Head and
Actor Honored
The United States
Junior Chamber of
Commerce, representing
1,800 local chambers,
recently announced
the selection
of Charles H. Percy,
30. president of the
Bell & Howell Co., as
one of the ten outstanding
young men
Charles H. Percy of the nation during
1949.
Percy was the only businessman chosen
this year to receive the award. He was
presented with the distinguished service
award key and scroll of honor by Paul G.
Hoffman, ECA administrator, at an award
banquet held in Peoria, 111.
The award is presented annually to ten
men between the ages of 21 and 36 who
have "won outstanding success in their
fields and have advanced the welfare of
the people on a national level." Percy was
the joint nominee of the Junior Chambers
of Commerce of both Evanston, 111., and
Chicago.
Harold Russell, motion picture actor,
author, lecturer, and national president
of Amvets, was another of the ten.
For your convenience in securing additional data
on items described or advertised, postage-paid
reply cords have been provided on page 51.
INCREASES YOUR
THEATRE TRAFFIC AND PROFITS
SAVES 85% OF WASHROOM COSTS
Sani-Dri quickly pays for itself out of savings!
No buying or stocking of towels. No unsonitory
litter to clean up ... no paper-clogged pipes
... no fire hazard ... no servicing of towel
cabinets. Soni-Dri has carried the Underwriter's
Seal of Approval for 18 years. It is the on/y e/ecirtc
dryer that has proven its dependability in
over 22 years'
use!
Distributors in Principal Cities
THE CHICAGO HARDWARE FOUNDRY CO.
"Dependable Since 1897"
2920 Commonwealth Avenue
NORTH CHICAGO ILLINOIS
BEFORE YOU MODERNIZE OR MAKE NEW
INSTALLATIONS
GET THE FACTS ON
Sa4tl-2>^
The Chicaqo Hardware Foundry Co
2920 Commonwealth Avenue
North Chicocto, Illinois
GENTLEMEN, Pleose send llleroiure on \h,
082 fosl drying Sani-Dn
For NEW Construction
and Remodeling . . .
AIR-RITE is the result of 12 years
of rich experience in manufacturing,
engineering, and the installation of Theatre
Air Conditioning Equipment.
Write today for literature on our Blowers 10,000 to 60,000
CFM., Washers, Hydraulic Variable Speed Drives, Motors,
Double Deflection Grills.
We Furnish FREE Engineering Service. Write for name of nearest dealer.
NATIONAL ENGINEERING & MANUFACTURING COMPANY
523 Wyandotte • Kansas City, Mo.
54
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

J
Your Doorman Must Be
A Hali-Minute Host
Over the years, whether the theatre executive
reahzes it or not, the theatre doorman
affects boxoffice grosses. He is the
first person to greet a patron who has just
paid his admission charge. He is tlie person
who can say, "Thank you," in a pleasant
tone and put that patron in a better
frame of mind. The doorman who just
takes the ticket and hands the patron liis
stub may be doing his duty but he's missing
an opportunity to improve tlie theatre's
public relations. Paying customers—be
they in the downtown A house or outlying
neighborhood location—appreciate courtesy
and respect and enjoy a cheerful
"Thank you!" from the doorman. By
grasping the ticket firmly and rapidly
handing back the stub a doorman tells the
customer the theatre appreciates his patronage
and wants him to come again.
What are the basic qualifications for a
doorman? Should he be energetic, enthusiastic,
with a ready smile, or should he be
more reserved? The best bet would be a
cross-section of both types. The ideal
doorman should be schooled in the art (and
it is an art) of meeting the public and
making them feel at home within a halfminute
to a minute.
Because the doorman is in the public
spotlight it is advisable to have him neatly
groomed and perhaps more impressively
dressed than other staff members. An elderly
man often makes the best candidate
for the doorman's position. His age will
many times command more respect from
the public. Teen-age customers, for example,
will think twice before getting out
of hand when faced with an elderly man
on duty at the door.
Prior to a doorman's employment, he
should be told by the theatre manager that
he represents the theatre management and
should act accordingly.
It is also a good idea to have a daily nmning
time-schedule posted conspicuously for
the doorman's reference in order that he
may answer the oft-repeated request for
show time.
The newest projectors can take
larger lenses. Here is the lens designed
specifically to achieve top performance with these
modem projectors — the sensational four inch diameter Super
Snaplite. Speed of f/1.9 from 5 through 7 inch focal lengths, in
V4
inch steps.
MORE LIGHT... the four inch diameter
Super Snaplite gives you an
1/1.9 lens in focal lengths as long as
7 inches!
LONG LIFE. ..one piece mount,
specially sealed lens elements, anodized
finish that can t flake off - all
spell longer, top-notch periormcmce
for the four inch diameter Super
Snaplite!
SHARPER PICTURES. ..a
true
anastigmat lens for longer throws —
the four inch diameter Super SnopUte
produces pictures wire-sharp right to
the very corners!
HIGHER CONTRAST. ..amireflection
coatings further enhance
the brilliant, crisp, sparkling pictures
projected by the four inch diameter
Super Snaplite!
Four inch diameter Super Snaplites are available, to order, in local lengths
irom iive up through seven inches, in quarter inch steps. In oil these focal
lengths the true ettective speed oi i/1.9 is maintained. Four inch diameter
Super Snaplites are also available, to special order, in focal lengths longer
than seven inches, at somewhat slower speeds.
Get the full iacfs oi this superlative new lens
now—write for your copy of Bulletin No. 209 today!
1 Franklin Avenue
Brooklyn 11, New York OKPOKilTIOK
SAVE TIME SAVE MONEY
Get your equipment and supplies from this "onestop"
in
store specializing Drive-In Equipment
and Supplies.
Compfete 35mni Dual
DRIVE-IN OUTFIT
$1595 up.
I.
Available on TO^E—
pay out oi income.
Also iull line speakers,
cable. floodlights,
signs, screens,
etc.
New illustrated Drive-In Catalog now m
preparation — Reserve your free copy.
S. 0. S. CINEMA SUPPLY CORP.
Dept. Cd. 602 West 52nd St., N. Y. 19
BOXOFTICE : : February- 4, 1950
SAVE MORE ON CARBONS
Patents Pending
CALI CARBON COUPLERS
Let You Burn All the Carbon
"They're Expendible"
So inexpensive you can run them right through the
arc end burn them up with the carbon. Order Now!
Mention size: 6, 7 or 8MM. At your Independent
supply house or send $2 for a year's supply of 100
couplers of any one size (add sales tax for your state)
Most economical carbon saver you ever used!
CALI Products Company
3719 Marjorie Woy Sacramento 17, Calif.
Full Refund
If not 100%
Satisfied
For full information use the postagepaid
card on page 51. Write in th!s
ad's key number—55-C.
55

BALLANTYNE NOW OFFERS
EQUIPMENT PACKAGE PLAN
DRIVE-IN
In addition to their "Turn-Key" ->.•-•
plan for building and equipping a complete
drive-in theatre as a packaged deal, the
Ballantyne Co. is now prepared to offer
a drive-in theatre equipment package independently
of any construction.
Under the packaged equipment plan, the
drive-in owner can place a single order for
projectors, soundheads, bases, amplifiers,
in-a-car speakers, and all booth accessories,
even including film cement and an initial
supply of carbons, in one packaged unit.
Contained in the package are several new
or improved items of equipment including
two models of arc lamps, two models of
in-a-car speakers, a new amplifier system
and a new Ballantyne projector.
The new high intensity arc lamp for
large theatres and drive-ins Is manufactured
for the Ballantyne Co. by C. S. Ashcraft.
Known as the Hydro-Arc, it will be
available in two models, one which will use
7mm negative and 8mm positive carbons
for operation at 74 amperes, and another
which will use 5/ 16mm negative and 9mm
positive carbons for operation at 85 amperes.
Both lamps have water cooled
mechanisms and ISVi-inch high speed reflectors.
Both lamps have full ball and
roller bearing mechanisms, resulting in
perfectly uniform light output.
Both lamps have a horizontal trim with
no rotating carbons, thus eliminating any
mechanical difficulty from these sources.
They may be operated either from a motor
generator or with the new Lightmaster 90-
ampere rectifier. Ballantyne claims that
their Hydro-Arc 9 operating at 85 amperes
will provide 20,000 lumens at the screen.
Patterned after last year's Sound Master
model, the new MX-40 is priced at $12.50
for a set of two speakers and one junction
box complete and ready for installation.
The only change from the 1949 Sound
Master is in the case, which in place of
being cast aluminum is a smooth, lightweight,
heavy gauge pressed steel with a
high gloss baked-on enamel finish. As an
alternative, Ballantyne offers the speaker
in a fluorescent paint finish at a slight
additional cost.
The two halves of the speaker case are
jointed so that only two patented screws
need to be removed to service the speaker.
The internal speaker cone is fully waterproofed
and the voice coil fully enclosed.
The post transformers are impregnated and
water-proofed with a simplified terminal
strip for attachment of speakers.
While the Sound Master speaker has been
improved in its 1950 model, quantity manufacture
has resulted in its price being considerably
reduced.
i^€m(xelZi.A?ft?so?rs
^^
Among the new improvements in the
speaker are a heavier speaker cone and
voice coil with heavier magnet, extended
louvers on the speaker face, and a i-ubberoid
covered speaker hanger that will not mar
or scratch automobiles when hung in them.
As an added feature, the Ballantyne speakers
are now available with wire baskets at
a small additional cost.
In the MX-30 speaker line. Ballantyne
has also a new de luxe junction box which
in addition to having the usual downlight,
also has a ramp and car position lighted
plate so that patrons can locate their car
after leaving it to visit the concession stand.
The new tailored drive-in amplification
system has an output of 400 watts, using
both power amplifiers, or 200 watts from
only one amplifier as emergency standby.
The system is sold complete with wiring
channel for ease in installation.
The new improved Model "BW" projector,
manufactured in conjunction with the
Wenzel Projector Co., is completely
equipped with oilite bearings which require
vei-y little lubrication.
The main drive shaft has been replaced
by a stationary stud and the main drive
gear turns this stud. The "BW" projector
has a lens mount and adjustments on the
front of the projector case, a new framing
light, a full size door on the operation side,
modem rear shutter and provisions for
use of the new 4-inch lens mount.
56 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

: February
Added Service Helps
'Seir a Theatre
The ingenuity of the true showman appears
regularly in the merchandising of
his theatre and the methods he uses to
build repeat business.
The wise exhibitor can find many ways
of making patrons remember some small
convenience and of choosing his house
when they seek comfortable entertainment.
A theatreman in Canada, for instance.
has placed a reading rack in the rest rooms,
filled with the latest film fan magazines.
Such publications as Modern Screen and
Photoplay are made available for patrons
wishing to while away a few moments
while awaiting the finish of the photoplay.
This same theatre now has an interesting
and highly convenient "schedule clock"
which not only gives the correct time but
l.*sts the item on the screen at the time,
such as news, cartoon, main feature, second
feature, trailers. As the clock moves,
so does the schedule so that rest room
occupants know exactly what is playing
at any and all given moments of the day
or night.
One theatre in Floi-ida encourages wouldbe
artists through special wall displays of
paintings, murals and sculpture, all created
by community citizens. Paperhanger, delicatessen
owner, high school student, all
may lend their works of art to the theatre
management.
Every fortnight a bi-and new group of
art specimens is placed on exhibition on
the theatre rest room walls and on specially
constructed show tables. The theatre
has had many comments, nearly all on the
favorable side.
Remodeling Includes
Simplex Projector
POINT THE WAYA
Make patrons' first
impression of your
drive-in a good one
with handsome signs,
specifically designed
to attract more business.
Poblocki offers
a choice of 20 signs,
singk or double face,
V-type, with a variety
of flasher systems. They range
from a modest no-glass economical
model for small driveins
to exciting large signs for
larger theatres. All can be
erected with local labor. Necessary
blue prints for lower construction
are furnished with
each sign. Write today for
lavish catalog.
PROFIT ON WHEELS
Tae SNACK-KAR Poblocki now
offers Drive-in exhibitors the ideal
portable refreshment bar—made
to order to cash in on profit-rich
food vending.
Now your vending
stand can move from car to car,
carrying a $150.00 pay load and
returning a profit of S95.00 for
each trip. Hot dogs and popcorn
warm— yet ice cream and drinks
stay cold. Investigate today.
Shown above is an installation of Simplex sound
and projection equipment in the TEI Ben Bolt,
Chillicothe, Mo. The volume control amplifier
of the sound system is mounted on the side of
the projector instead of the wall as is usually
the case. The speaker control panel at the
right, in addition to controlling all the usual
functions, also operates an illuminated display
on each side of the proscenium opening.
Poblocki & Sons
2159 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Milwaukee 7, Wis.
send us complece info
"INNER SERVICE'
Complete Eronis Postci _
Snack-Kar Q Drive-In Signs D
Olher Products
(Indicate)
OTHER POBLOCKI PRODUCTS
Complete Porcelain and Sfainleil Steel
Theatre Fronts • Marquees • Signs
• Box OHices • Poster Cases,
Aluminum and Stainless Steel • Easel
Poster Cases • Stainless Steel Doors

New Front Increases Theatre's Boxoffice
Creators of
Distinctive
Uniforms
for Every
Purpose
Write for full
information
Samples and
illustrations
v/ill follow.
AhhCiM^^Uim>PHC.
Our 80th Year.
Harold J. D'Ancona, Pres.
Dept. B, 625 S. State St., Chicago 5, 111.
MAKE YOUR THEATRE A
Smw^mce
AND KEEP YOUR
BOXOFFICE BUSIER
Send your rough sketches or plans
for free estimate & color rendering
Bu

: Februarj-
EQUIPMENT Sr
DEVELOPMENTS
'ntercom System Plugs P-352
Into Electrical Outlet
The simple and low cost loud speaker
telephone inter-communication system
shown here is offered by Super Mfg. Corp.
It is said to operate efficiently over distances
as much as 1.000 feet, re-creating
the speaker's voice in strong, clear and
natural tones.
Marketed under the trade name "Superfone,"
the equipment is specially designed
for easy operation and simple installation.
The basic equipment comes with two stations
already connected with 50 feet of
three-wire cable, and equipped with attachment
cord and plug. No batteries are
required. To place Superfone in operation,
it is only necessary to plug into any
110-volt electric outlet, place the stations
where desired, and start talking.
PAR Projection Lens P-353
Uses New Principle
A new lens for motion picture projection
has been placed on the market by PAR
Products Corp. Originally designed for use
in the new two and four-screen drive-ins
where two screens are sei-ved by one set of
projectors using a beam-splitting device,
the new lens affords added screen brilliance
at new long ranges. Resolving power of the
lenses carries critical sharpness to all four
comers of the screen.
All glass-air surfaces are coated with
high-efficiency anti-reflection films and
lens elements are connected with heatresisting
cement and are sealed into their
mounts to prevent contamination.
The new lens has been designed to fit
standard projection equipment without
costly modification, and is available in
focal lengths from 6 inches to 12 V2 inches,
all having an aperture ratio of f:2.0.
Announces New P-354
Carbon Holder
Edward H. Wolk announces a new carbon
holder for the large Chicago cinema spotlamp
for delivery in the near future.
BOXOFFICE :
FOR MORE
INFORMATION
USE Readers'
Bureau Coupons^ page 51
Steel or Aluminum Cases P-355
For In-a-Car Speakers
Autocrat, Inc., announces two new in-acar
speaker models for 1950, one with
pressed steel speaker case and a de luxe
model of die-cast aluminum.
In addition to the straight cords, a pair
of speakers and the junction box, coiled
cords, post downlight, concession signal
system, basket cradle for speakers and a
baked Hammer finish may be purchased
for slight additional charges.
Freezer Units for Hard
Or Soft Ice Cream
P-356
Three new types of freezers produced by
Mills Industries, Inc., afford the refreshment
operator tailor-made soft ice cream
and custard facilities.
The All-in-one continuous freezer produces
a steady flow of custard, soft ice
cream and other soft desserts, and at the
same time produces batch ice cream.
A conventional freezer is available for
those who do not need the continuous custard
feature. The All-in-one model also
comes with a refrigerated side cabinet holding
two 10-gallon cans of mix.
Directional Lights
Please Patrons
P-357
Many outdoor theatre
managers have
found that attractive
lighting of entrances
and exits has helped
to increase patronage.
To meet this need.
Revere Electric Mfg.
Co. offers a vertical,
lighted standard
which contains six instant
start fluorescent
lamps enclosed within
a ribbed glass luminaire.
These standards
throw off a rich
glow of light and are
capped with an area
lighter which throws
light downward while
the fluorescent lamps
throw a horizontal
beam.
Mounting can be on standard octagonal
steel base, or the luminaire can mount on
a 2-inch pipe. Mounting heights depend
upon the locality and installation. One of
the features of this luminaire is the ease
of getting at the lamps and ballasts. The
hinged door encasing the ribbed glass
makes lamping or servicing an easy matter.
Opaque words can be fired into the glass
such as Entrance, Exit, Gas, Oil or Ladies.
Overall height of standard with octagonal
base as shown in illustration, is 9 feet, 10
inches. If a top area lighter is used, the
light center comes at 10 feet, 5 inches.
Height of luminaire is 4 feet, 10 inches.
Transportable Dispenser P-358
For Soft Drinks
The BakPak introduced by the Produx
Co. is a transportable soda fountain, carried
by attendants dispensing carbonated soft
drinks at drive-in theatres.
The BakPak carries 50 six-ounce drinks.
It is filled at 34 degrees and the drinks are
dispensed at a temperature not exceeding
36 degrees even after three or four hours.
The unit provides a carbonation of 3.5.
The Pak weighs less than 40 pounds full.
The harness stays on attendants at all
times and distributes the weight evenly.
In a recent test, hot drinks were also
dispensed by the Bakpak, which handles
coffee, bouillon and hot chocolate in addition
to any crushed fruit or carbonated
drink. The entire BakPak can be filled in
three or four minutes, and dispenses a
six-ounce cup in three sefconds.
4, 1950 59

H
New Display Case for P-362
Theatre Candy Sales
A new display case
ideal for selling
candy in theatres, announced
by the Columbus
Show Case
Co., includes features
which heretofore have
been confined only to
higher-priced models.
The new case is
40 inches high with
a 28-inch-high display
section, is 30
inches long and 22 inches deep.
Frame front and sides are extruded architectural
bronze. The interior is illuminated
by fluorescent light in a full-length
bronze reflector. Finishes are available in
either natural prima vera or fairtone oak.
Combine Screen Tower P-363
And Housing Unit
A combination rigid frame drive-in
screen tower with either housing facilities.
office space or refreshment stand in the
base is offered by Drive-In Theatre Manufacturing
Co. as a prefabricated unit.
THE MAGIC SCREEN OF THE FUTURE HOW!
A PERFECT PICTURE FROM ANY ANGLE
No more eyestrain and irritation for patrons in extreme front
and side seats,
No more annoyance in showing a favorite star
with a head that comes to a point ... the CYCLORAMIC
CUSTOM SCREE.\ has fixed that ! Written testimony from
hundreds of happy theatre owners and thousands of pleased
picture patrons declares the CYCLORAMIC CUSTOM
SCREEN solves the front and side seat problem by presenting
a perfect PICTURE FROM ANY ANGLE.
BETTER SOUND TRANSMISSION!
The package is available in either doublefaced
or single-faced screen tower in sizes
affording screen surfaces from 36x48 feet
to 48x60 feet. The building in the base
varies in size from 20x48 feet to 26x64 feet,
is 10 feet high at the eaves and 18 feet high
at the apex. The unit is delivered ready
to bolt together.
Perfect Sound Transmission with more even acoustical distribution.
Complete elimination of backstage reverberation.
Invisible seams. Flameproof . . . White clear through . . .
and stays white. Even Light Distribution. Third dimensional
effect. Vivid realism to Color Projection . . . Greater Depth
and Clarity to Black and White.
Add Hot Drink Unit P-364
To Colespa Dispenser
A new hot chocolate assembly for use
with its 3-flavor cold drink beverage cup
dispenser was announced recently by the
Cole Products Co. It is designed as a
separate unit, replacing one of the cold
drink units during the winter months, and
is sold for $125 f.o.b. point of shipment.
The new hot chocolate unit can be installed
in all Colespa dispensers now on
location, and when hot weather starts it
can then be replaced with the regular icy
cold unit it displaced.
CYCLORAMIC
Cusfom Screen
NO
PERFORATIONS
More light without reflection glare.
Olsfrlbufed ffirough rdeolre Supply Oea/arl In All Him C»
B. F. SHEARER COMPANY
Innipef, Re«ln«, Calfoi
J J»hn, VoAM»T*r
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950
61

—
-^^~^ PRECISION MADE
m^- PROJECTOR PARTS
Once you've used them^ you'll agree that the built-in precision
and trouble free performance of La Vezzi parts do much to
hasten repair jobs and help you to
deUghts patrons.
the better projection that
Specify La Vezzi SUPER-SERVICE Parts for
all your replacements! Your Theatre Supply Dealer has them.
LaVezzi Machine Works
A Clean Theatre
At Lower Cost
IDEAL
TANK TYPE
CLEANER
Now you can have a thoroughly
clean theatre from
top to bottom — with less
cleaning time and cost than
for ordinary "once-over"
methods. In one pass, supersuction
of 1-1/3 HP motor
picks up dust and litter
even water and embedded
dirt. Keeps large carpeted
Schutter Offers Free Book P-365
Matches to Retailers
Distributors of candy in every section of
the counti-y are now offering retailers of
candy bars 150 books of matches free with
the purchase of four boxes of Schutter
Candy Co.'s candy bars, Old Nick and
Bit-O-Honey.
This offer is especially attractive to retailers
because they receive the 150 book
matches free and because the matches help
sell candy bars. Each match cover gives
their customers the opportunity to order
a $1.25 paring knife set from Schutter
for only 50 cents and two Old Nick or
Bit-O-Honey wrappers.
Feature Sturdy Design P-366
In New Powerstat
The Superior Electric Co. announces the
new design of Powerstat variable transformers
type 116 and 216.
The new design incorporates features
which make the entire unit more rugged,
protecting it against the abuses of constant
use and rough shipping treatment. A new
diecast aluminum terminal box on the
cord-plug models adds strength and lengthens
service. On all models, the new, extra
heavy and rugged terminal board of
phenolic plastic prevents breakage. Solderscrew
tei-minals are arranged for better
spacing and for quicker and more positive
connections.
All improvements have been made within
the old standard mounting dimensions
to conform to existing panel layouts.
Stainless Steel Rollers
Grill Frankfurters
P-367
areas spic and span. Easy to
\"se—rolls on big, 5-in.
'
wheels. Empties in a jiffy.
^ Built to last for years!
A compact, eye-catching frankfurter
grill of stainless steel rollers is now offered
by Alton Electronics. The new unit
can be operated at either indoor or outdoor
theatre refreshment counters by
merely plugging into a regular electric
outlet, and requires no vents, exhaust fans
or canopies.
The rollers, which contain electric heating
elements, revolve slowly, turning and
cooking the frankfurters without grease.
Because of the relatively low, even heat
the grill requires little attention, yet will
cook up to 300 frankfurters an hour. According
to the manufacturer, frankfurters
cooked on the grill will not shrivel or burst.
Made in three different sizes, the roller
grill is said to do a complete merchandising
job.
Motiograph Model "AA"
Double Shutter Projectors are
designed and built to operate
longer without costly repairs
and replacements and consequently
have the lowest possible
ultimate cost. They assure
maximum screen illumination
without flicker. Smooth, quiet,
cool operation. Buy Motiograph;buyproven
satisfaction.
Order from your Motiograph dealer or write
MOTIOGRAPH, INC.
4431 W. Lake St., Chicago 24, III.
Export Division (Except Canada)
Frozar & Hansen, Ltd., 301 Clay St.
San Francisco 11,Californio
The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

Announce Plastic Link-Type P-368
Floor Matting
A new type plastic floor mat has just
been announced by the American Mat
Corp.
To be marketed under the tradename
of Evertred, this new mat. constructed of
vinyl plastic links woven on a rust-resisting
spring steel wire network, has many
applications.
Evertred affords safety underfoot
through the special design of the links.
One side of each link is slightly corrugated
to effect a non-slip surface.
The other side of the links is ridged
to afford dirt removal. According to
manufacturers, the mat will not absorb
soil, discolor with use or age, nor lose
any of its color brilliancy.
Available in green, red, brown, white
and black, an Evertred mat can be had
in any desired pattern in any width up to
five feet and in any desired length.
Fire Resistant Drapery P-369
From Wool and Gloss
A new, inlierently fire-resistant drapery
fabric, woven of Fiberglas and wool yarns,
has been developed by the textile division
of Knoll Associates for use in theatres.
With its tweed-hke texture and handloomed
appearance, the Fiberglas and wool
faric is said to drape as softly as a handloomed
material. Manufacturers claim it
meets rigid fire-safety requirements for use
in theatres and institutions. Sunlight,
gases in the atmosphere and mildew do
not affect the fabric, nor do changes in
temperature and humidity.
Since the fabric is highly resistant to
moisture absorption, dust tends to remain
on the surface. The material, therefore, responds
readily to surface cleaning. Dry
cleaning is required only at long intervals.
This, together with the long-wearing qualities
of the fabric, tends to reduce maintenance
costs. Dry cleaning does not affect
the inherent fire-resistant property.
Available in four two-tone tweed effects
—green, blue, red or black in combination
with natural, and in natural—the fabric
is sold through the contract drapei-y departments
of leading department stores and
through other contract decorators. Width
of the fabric is 46 inches. Retail price is
$7.50 a yard.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950
POWERSTAT
LIGHT DIMMING
EQUIPMENT
Whether your auditorium is in a theatre, a school, a church or a
hotel, POWERSTAT Light Dimming Equipment "custom tailors"
your lighting — gives you the right light for the right occasion —
simply and economically.
With POWERSTAT Dimmers in your lighting circuits, you can
dim, brighten and blend lights to get the proper effects — to
create atmospheres appropriate to the event taking place.
And POWERSTAT Dimmers — motor-driven for remote control
by "raise-lower" switches or positioner devices — give you
added convenience. The dimmer unit, installed in an out-of-theway
place, can be controlled from
FOR DETAILS, WRITE
2020 DEMERS AVENUE
BRISTOL, CONNECTICUT
one or several locations. You get
silent,
efficient dimming, brightening
and blending of light — plus
the convenience of flexible control
location.
mrfmiilrJj'llll
POWERSTAT Dimmers are
ofFered in a v/ide range of
ratings — for manual or motor-
Write today for
driven control.
descriptive booklet — then consult
your architect or electrical
engineer.
fOWERSIAT VARIABLE TRANSFORMERS • VOLTBOX AC POWER SUPPLIES • STABILL
E REGULATORS
For full intormotion use the postage-pa d card on page 51. Write in this ad's key number—63-A.
63

GOLDE TICKET
DISPENSER .^
FAST ... 1
ECONOMICAi:
Simple and sturdy. Quick
. . . dispensing easy reading.
Magazine load. Add-
A-Magazine feature. Rubproof
satin chrome top
plate. Write for Bulletin
No. 467. * At beHer theatre supply dealers.
®
GOLDE MANUFACTURING CO.
1220-A W. Madison St.. Cliicaflo 7. U.S.A.
To respond to this advertisement, use postagepaid
ccrd at page 5 1 , using this ad's Key
Number—64-A.
LIVMOIITE
ILLUMINATED PRICE ADMISSION SIGNS
Our enlarged plant foclities assure
OVERNIGHT service from coast to coast.
Plastic Signs Engraved ior the Entire Theatre
Send for Folder •Pcit pend
Edgar S.
Bowman
124 W. 21st St., New York 11, N. Y.
Panel Sign Offers P-370
Effective Display
The new Curv-O-Syn announced by
Ernco Products Co. incorporates a 15 or 20
watt fluorescent bulb with bright pastel
colors to give an extremely brilliant counter
sign. The frame is stamped from 20-gauge
steel and comes in brown wrinkle finish or
hammered silver.
imPflRT REAL SPARKLE
to your presentations with
this more brilliant spot
THE STRONG TROUPER
HIGH INTENSITY SPOTLIGHT
A portable A.C. Carbon ore that produces a steady, sharp, uniformly
illuminated snow-white spot. Silvered glass reflector and twoelement
variable focal length lens system. Draws only 10 amperes from IlO-volt A.C. convenience outlet.
Adjustable, self-regulating transformer in base. Automatic arc control. Carbon trim burns 80
minutes. Horizontal masking control. Can be angled at 45 degrees in each direction. Color boomerang.
Six slides. Ultra-violet filter holder. Mounted on costers. Easily disassembled for shipping.
Listed by Underwriters Laboratories
SEE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING DEALERS OR USE COUPON FOR OBTAINING LITERATURE
ALBANY
Nafl Theatre Sup. Co.
Albany Theatre Supply
ATLANTA
Nat' I Theatre Sup. Co.
ATLANTIC CITY
Boardwalk Film Enterprises
BALTIMORE
J. F. Dusman Co.
Nat'l Theatre Sup. Co.
BOSTON
J. Cifri Inc.
Nat'l Theatre Sup. Co.
BUFFALO
Dion Products
Nat'l Theatre Sup. Co.
CHARLOTTE
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
CHICAGO
Abbott Theatre Equip. Co.
Gardner Jansen Inc.
Hollywood Stage Lighting Co.
Midwest Stage Lighting Co.
Midwest Theatre Service & Eqi
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
CINCINNATI
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
CLEVELAND
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
DALLAS
Hardin Theatre Sup. Co.
Modern Theatre Equip. Co.
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
DENVER
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
Graham Brothers
DES MOINES
Nat'l. Theatre Sup. Co.
THE
STRONG
ELECTRIC CORP.
DETROIT
Nat'l. Theatre Suo. Co.
FORTY FORT
V. M. Tate Theatre Supplies
GREENSBORO
Standard Theatre Sup. Co.
HOUSTON
Southwestern Theatre Equip. Co.
INDIANAPOLIS
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
KANSAS CITY
Shreve Theatre Supply
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
LOS ANGELES
J. M. Boyd
C. J. Hotzmueller
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
Projection Equip. & Main. Co.
LOUISVILLE
Falls City Theatre Equip. Co.
MEMPHIS
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
MILWAUKEE
Nafl Theatre Sup. Co.
R. Smith Co.
MINNEAPOLIS
Minneapolis Theatre Supply
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
NEW HAVEN
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
NEW ORLEANS
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
NEW YORK CITY
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
NORFOLK
Nafl. Theatre Sup. C«.
OKLAHOMA CITY
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
Olclahoma Theatre Sup. Co.
PHILADELPHIA
Blumberg Bros.
Nafl. Theatre Sup. Co.
PITTSBURGH
Atlas Theatre Supply
Nafl Theatre Sup. Co.
SALT LAKE CITY
Inter-Mountain Theatre Sup. Co.
SAN FRANCISCO
C. J. Holzmueller
Nafl Theatre Sup. Co.
W. G. Preddey Theatre Sup.
SEATTLE
B. F. Shearer Co.
Nafl Theatre Sup. Co.
SIOUX FALLS
American Theatre Sup. Co.
ST. LOUIS
City Electric Co.
Nafl Theatre Sup. Co.
TOLEDO
Theatre Equip. Co.
WESTERLY
G. H. Payne Motion Picture Servic
CANADA
Dominion Sound Equip. Ltd.
Montreal. Quebec
General Theatre Sup. Co.
Montreal, Quebec
Perkins Elec. Co. Ltd.
Montreal,
Quebec
Perkins Electric Co. Ltd.
Toronto.
Ontario
General Theatre Sup. Co.
Winnipeg
Please send free literature, orices and name of the nearest dealer in Strong Spotlights.
The message face is of cui-ved. non-breakable
plastic and panels are available in all
colors. An unusually even light over entire
message panel is obtained by having the
panel mounted close to the bulb. Installation
of message panel is quick, easy, and
additional panels with various messages
can be ordered.
Curv-O-Syn can be either hung or placed
flat on any level surface. Overall length is
24 inches and face width 5 inches.
Decorative Rubber Mats P-371
Protect Expensive Rugs
Development of a new all-purpose, decorative
rubber floor matting for use in
theatres was announced recently by United
States Rubber Co,
The new matting has a distinctive wafflelike
design. It is produced in black, maroon,
red or green, in 3/16 inch thickness
and 36, 48 and 52 inch widths.
The matting is especially designed for
areas where regular corrugated matting is
too light or unattractive and perforated
mats are too heavy for such service. The
new matting can be laid over expensive
carpeting during inclement weather to pre-
\'ent tracking mud and dirt into attractive
interiors. Its design also makes it easy to
clean.
Economy and Convenience
In Washroom Accessory
P-372
Plumbing difficulties caused by cigar and
cigaret butts, matches, and chewing gum
dropped into urinals of men's washrooms
can now be virtually eliminated by the use
of a sand-filled receptacle marketed under
the name "Buttray." Located on the washroom
wall a wedge type tail plate on the
back of the tray fits into a slotted wall
bracket making the tray easily removable
for cleaning. The "Buttray" is constructed
of 16-gauge steel.
64 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

—
—
The following concerns have recently
filed copies of interesting descriptive literature
with the Modern Theatre Information
Bureau. Readers who loish copies may
obtain them promptly by using the Readers'
Bureau post card in this isstie of The Modern
Theatre.
L-1014 Hastings Air Conditioning Co.
has released literature on several types of
small packaged air conditioning units, a
complete line of blowers, grille registers and
unit heaters. Information given includes
statistics and descriptive material. Diagrams
and photos are included also.
L-1015 Electroaire Sales, Inc. has a
folder available on two Electroaire models
which are said to generate ozone to eliminate
all disagreeable odors. The folder includes
descriptive information and photos,
L-1016 An attractive eight-page brochure
issued by Lawter Chemicals, Inc.,
contains important data on properties and
uses of phosphorescent and luminescent
paints in theatre decoration. Suggestions
for application methods and precautions
are included.
L-1017
Several single sheets have been
released by the Ebco Mfg. Co. with information
on various types of water coolers
and fountains. Information is available
also on the Oasis air drier unit.
L-1018—Two booklets of Sanitron, Inc.,
describes their Sanitaire and Hygeaire
units for killing air-borne germs and bacteria.
Recommended for installation in
washrooms and lounges, the units are said
to become "silent salesmen" for the theatres
in which they are used. The booklets
illustrate various models and give applications,
specifications and prices.
L-1019 — A Tornado portable electric
blower which makes it possible to carry
your forced air stream to the point where
it is needed is amply illustrated and
described in a two-color, four-page brochure
released by the Breuer Electric Co.
The blower's low operating cost and efficient
performance in saving on machinery
repair is thoi'oughly explained.
L-1020 An issue of Unitecture. published
by Unit Structures, Inc., is devoted
to their semi-prefabricated drive-in theatre
screen tower. Illustrated on the cover of
this booklet is a double-faced tower for use
in twin theatre locations. Detailed specifications
of the tower are shown inside, while
the back cover illustrates the erection of
one of the firm's units.
L-1021—A FOUR-PAGE folder on chemical
resistant coatings is available from the
Wilbur & Williams Co. It contains valuable
information on applications for maximum
chemical, moistui'e and rust resistance in
varied industries for all metal, concrete
and wood.
For any projection lamp,
any size theatre or drive-in
More efficient!
Burns longer, steadier!
Most economical!
15% more light with
same amperage!
Less pitting of mirrors!
'I
Minimum ash
deposit!
This is ilie
The last word in carbons! Helios BIO
carbons achieve a "new high" in
PROJECTOR MECHANISM
increased brilliant-white screen illumination—guaranteeing
at least
15% more light with same amperage.
For any size screen including
drive-ins. Countless tests under
various actual projection conditions
prove Helios BIO carbons produce
a more brilliant, more consistent,
steadier, and more evenly distributed
light over the entire area
of the screen. The slower burning
consumption rate definitely makes
Helios BIO carbons the most economical
on the market.
WRITt fOR DiTAIlS
You^ve been Mcaitinq for it,.,
NOW READ ABOUT IT IN THIS ISSUE!
HELIOS CeRBOflS.
9 West Park Street Newark 2, N. J.
^-
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1960 65

about people/ """ PRODUCT
Barle Vande Poel
The American Seating
Co. has announced
the promotion
of Earle Vande
Peel to the position
of manager of installation
and sales service.
A native of Holland,
Mich., Vande Poel is
a graduate of Hope
College, and became
affiliated with the
firm's traffic department in 1937.
^cun^ ^r^^ff^^ ^^tU^'P^'^''*"^^
CINCINNATI GARDENS
SAVED $979.72 A MONTH
ON THEIR WATER BILL
Actual figures over a 6 months period ... 3
months BEFORE and 3 months AFTER installation
of a Marley Vairflo Cooling Tower at the
Cincinnati Gardens, beautiful Sports Palace in
Cincinnati, Ohio . . . show WATER SAVINGS
ALONE OF 92%.
"The difference," says one of the Garden's
directors, "is unbelievable!"
"We should put a fence around our Marley
Vairflo and guard it like a mint," says Alex
Sinclair, superintendent.
Certainly in these days of higher operating
costs and lower profits, any piece of equipment
that pays for itself in 6 months . . . and reduces
operating costs as this Marley Cooling
Tower did, deserve management's most careful
considerotion.
This outstanding saving, accomplished with a
435 gpm tower for a comparatively small water
user, COULD BE EVEN GREATER FOR YOU!
Depending, naturally, upon your water consumption
ond your water costs.
Why worry about high water bills, water
shortages or low water pressure during the
critical summer months? Marley can help you
solve your water cooling problem. Write, wire
or call
today.
To respond to this advertisement, use postagepaid
card at page 51, using this ad's Key Number
- 66-A.
THE MARLEY CO.,
INC.
KANSAS CITY 15, KANSAS
C. Mason Gerhart. who has been assistant
to the conmiercial sales manager of
the York Coitj. in Houston, Tex., has been
transferred to the home office of the air
conditioning and refrigeration firm at
York, Pa., as a sales engineer, according to
John R. Hertzler. vice-president and general
sales manager.
Changes have been made in the sales organization
of Alexander Smith & Sons Carpet
Co., which is also sole selling agent for
C. H. Masland & Sons, according to Wilbert
C, Hammel, vice-president, James S. Webster,
former district manager for Los Angeles,
has become west coast contract sales
representative, John T, Hargus, salesman
in Los Angeles, succeeds him. John M.
Condon has been transferred from Kansas
City to become St. Louis manager.
Wilbert Hammel jr., former New York
contract salesman, has become assistant
manager of the contract division. Henry
W. Benack of the New York office is now
manager of lining operations, reporting to
Joseph Fiala, sales manager for Smith
products.
The board of directors of Bausch & Lomb
Optical Co. recently announced the election
of M. Herbert Eisenhart as chairman of
the board. He has been president of Bausch
& Lomb since 1935.
Joseph F. Taylor, vice-president and
treasurer, was elected to succeed Eisenhart
as president.
William W, McQuilkin, who joined the
company as counsel in 1938, and has been
assistant treasurer since 1947. succeeds
Taylor as treasurer.
Appointment of M. Wren Gabel as assistant
to Albert K. Chapman, vice-president
and general manager of Eastman
Kodak Co,, was announced recently.
At a recent meeting of officers and managers
of the Dixie Drive-In Theatre Co.
H. T. Posey, controller; Harris Robinson,
president; R, A, Edmondson jr,, vice-president:
and H, P, Rhodes, general manager,
posed for the camera from left to right.
The firm's first drive-in was built during
pioneering days of drive-ins at Savannah.
Ga., in 1939, During the past year alone
the chain has opened five new outdoor
theatres in the North Carolina, Georgia
and Florida area in which they operate.
DOWN
Balance $10 Monthly
PENNY
FORTUNE
SCALE
No Springs
WRITE FOR PRICES
LARGE CASH BOX HOLDS
$85,00 IN PENNIES
Invented ond Made Only by
WATLING
Manufacturing
Company
4650 W, Fulton St. Chicago 44, III.
Est. 1889 — Telephone COIumbus 1-2772
Cable Address: WATLINGITE, Chicago
66 The MODERN THEATRE SECTION

John O. Young jr. has just been appointed
sales manager, fountain department,
of the Orange-Crush Co., it was announced
here by R. M. Horsey, executive
vice-president and general manager of the
firm. Young will have general supervision
of all fountain sales activities for the
Orange-Crush Co.
The American Seating Co. received the
1949 national first award from the Direct
Mail Advertising Ass'n for their preprints
of the first two full-color page ads of Bodifonn
chairs appearing in the theatre tradepapers
earlier this year.
In San Francisco the nine-year-old Mission
Popcorn Co. reports top location for
its automatic popcorn vender to be motion
picture theatres with bowling alleys, small
soft drink parlors and lunchrooms, following
in that order.
'There's a Lot More
Than Meets the Eye"
Yes, it's the "in-built" quality of
ADC EQUIPMENT
that accounts for its longer life . . .
superior performance . . . and its preference
over all others.
light • medium • heavy duty
• CURTAIN TRACKS
• CURTAIN MACHINES
• MOTOR GENERATORS
Automatic Devices Co.
116 N. 8th St. Allentown, Pa.
ENC®RE
THUTRE CHAIRS
HEYWOOD-
WAKEFIELD^ Menominee
Michigan
At the annual stockliolders meeting of
York Corporation, manufacturers of air
conditioning and refrigeration equipment,
Elmer A. Kleinschmidt, Philip H. Glatfelter,
William S. Shipley and Stewart L.
Lauer were re-elected to the board of directors
for a three-year term, it was announced
recently. All officers of the corporation
were re-elected.
Distributor-dealer-industrial sales shows
of the York Corp. are now appearing in
nine cities across the counti-y.
Executives from the home office will conduct
the showings and participate in the
program which will be staged on the pattern
of a trade fair.
Write for this
NEW
Catalogue
DeVry Corp. announced that its 1950
model in-car speakers and junction boxes,
now in production, would sell at a sharp
reduction from previous price quotations.
The low prices are the result of volume
orders already on the books, improved production
line facilities and a highly optimistic
sales outlook for the 1950 drive-in
season, DeVi-y executives say, who also announce
price reductions on power amplifiers.
In line with the expansion program of
Theatre Equipment Co. of Toledo, necessitated
by the increased volume of business,
Al Boudouris, president, announced
the appointment of V. W. Sheplin as the
sales manager of the drive-in theatre department.
Sheplin has been active in selling
construction of towers and drive-in
theatres for several years.
Model AVI 189WP
Moderate-priced lightweight
model is convertible
to wet pickup at small ex-
Modern maintenance requires modern methods!
In buildings of all sorts, General Electric Heavyduty
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All models and sizes, including furnace cleaner,
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We'll gladly arrange for a survey of your building's
cleaning requirements and recommend proper
cleaning equipment without obligation. Use the
coupon for convenience.
Commercial Cleaners
GENERAL(^ ELECTRIC
Two NEW distributors and two new dealers
have been added to the Lorraine Carbons
organization. The R & S Theatre Supply
Co. of Washington, D. C, and the Eastem
Theatre Supply Co. of Buffalo, N. Y.,
are the new distributors.
The Des Moines Theatre Supply Co. in
Des Moines and the Perdue Theatre Supply
Co. of Roanoke, Va., are the new Lorraine
dealers.
Mail this
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GFNIRAI. electric: CO., Depi 22-3018
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NAME
FIRM
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950 67

i
Thomas B. Hunger-
FORD of Chicago, former
associate director
of the National Automatic
Merchandising
Ass'n.has been named
merchandising director
of National Vendors.
Inc., in St. Louis.
The announcement
came recently from
Ben W. Fry, president
r. B. Hungerford
of National Vendors,
one of the country's largest coin-operated
vending machine manufacturers.
Hungerford became associated with the
vending machine industry in 1945, when
he was made director of public relations
for the National Automatic Merchandising
Ass'n in Chicago. Last year he became associate
director of the association, a position
he resigned last fall.
all the time
Bo**^
W«'Yioo \t»Xo«
VlC^
—with the RCA Sound Parts Plan
NOW, for a few pennies a week per car
station, you can be sure that all RCA
in-car equipment in your Drive- In will
operate at peak efficiency all the time.
Under this Plan, RCA Service Engineers
check your installation reguleirly.
They restore every speaker or junction
box that fails during normal operation.
They replace faulty speaker mechanisms
and components with brand-new RCA
units. If a speaker must be returned to
an RCA Service Center for repairs, RCA
furnishes the shipping container—and
pays the transportation charges both
ways. Repairs to spare speakers are included
at no extra charge.
Available to every drive-in theatre
equipped with RCA In-Car speakers and
junction boxes, the RCA Sound Parts
Progressive Chains and Independents have
found that Lintex Paper Collars and Fronts
are convenient and economical.
These collars and fronts are made from
specially processed paper with a linen finish.
When soiled they are thrown away. No
laundry problems with Lintex.
Plan takes the worry, work, and unexpected
expenses out of in-car equipment
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68
J. A. ScHALLENBERG, assistant controller
of the Worthington Pump & Machinery
Corp. died December 16, after a long illness.
Schallenberg joined the firm in 1918 and
served in the treasury and accounting departments,
both in the United States and
abroad.
Prom 1930 to 1937 he acted as special
representative of the treasury and accounting
departments, with headquarters in
Paris, France. He was made assistant controller
in 1937.
The Ballantyne Co. has effected a
further expansion of its plant in Omaha.
This step has been taken despite the proposal
to be voted on this spring for a new
city auditorium that would take the Ballantyne
land and check the westward expansion
of the city's Filmrow.
Wylie S. Robson, Eastman Kodak Co.
sales executive, has been transferred to the
company's San Francisco branch where he
will supervise the sales activity in that area,
James E. McGhee, vice-president and general
sales manager, announced recently.
t/-
With the introduction
of their new 1950
line of counter ice
cream freezers, Mills
Industries, Inc., an-
-f^^^^ nounces the return of
"""^S^^^^ ^- ^- Wilson as freezliyl^^^^l
er division sales man-
^^^^^H ager.
^ll^^^^B
Mills is now enterw-.JUtKKU
ing the new season
with a line of counter
A. f. Wi/son
jgg cream freezers
containing features not previously offered.
The leading model produces a continuous
flow of frozen custard and other soft products
as well as conventional ice cream.
The design has been simplified with the
mix supply from refrigerated cabinet, holding
two 10-gallon cans, attached to freezer
or from overhead tank holding four gallons
for locations where floor space is not available.
The MODEBN THEATRE SECTION

R>XOFFICE BABOMETER • EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
•FEATURE CHART • REVIEW DIGEST • SHORTS CHART
SHORTS REVIEWS •FEATURE REVIEWS • EXPLOITIPS
BOXOFFICE
FIRST RUN REPORTS
This chart shows the records made by
pictures in five or more o< the 21 key cities
checked. As new runs are reported, ratings
aje added and averages revised.
BookinGuid
BAROMETER
TOP HIT OF THE WEEK
(Not an oreroge)
Sands of Iwo Jima—
Philadelphia 210
Computed in terms of percentage in
relation to normal grosses. With 100
per cent as "normal," the figures
show the percentage above or below
that mark.

EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY
—
ABOUT
PICTURES
Just as the Barometer page shows first run reports on current pictures this
department w devoted for the most part to reports on subsequent runs made
by exhibitors themselves. A one-star contributor is new, two stars means 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
AU exhibitors welcome. Blue Ribbon pictures are marked thus O
COLUMBIA
Blondje's Big Deal (Col) — Arthur Lake,
Penny Singleton, Larry Simms. I thought it
the best of the series. Running it Christmas
eve, I couldn't tell from the take—but anyway,
it pleased the handful of faithful and was
short. Played Pri., Sat. Weather: Snow.—
Bob Walker, Uintah Theatre, FYuita, Colo.
Rural patronage.
• • •
Man From Colorado, The (Col) — Glenn
Ford, William Holden, Ellen Drew. Glenn
Ford is the meanest white man in this that I
can remember seeing. Your audience will hate
him fervently, but the show is good.—Frank
Sabin, Majestic Theatre, Eureka, Mont. SmaU
town patronage. • • •
Mr. Soft Touch ((3ol)—Glenn Ford, Evelyn
Keyes, John Ireland. This has a good story,
good cast, and good acting. My customers
seem to be aUergic to that Columbia label.
What is it? Do they miss the boat on preselllng?
Business was sub-par. Played Tues.,
Wed., Thurs. Weather: Fair and cold.—Jerry
Silver, Carmon Theatre, Cannon Falls, Minn.
Rural and small town patronage.
•
EAGLE LION
Northwest Stampede (EL)—James Craig,
Joan Leslie, Jack Oakie. This is just right.
It's nice to see a good-looker hke Joan LesUe
in a big western, and to welcome back Jack
Oakie. My only kick on this is poor print and
the Cinecolor, which was sometimes good,
sometimes terrible. It was almost impossible
to keep in focus. Played Thurs., Pri., Sat.—
W. O. Woody, Stockton Theatre, Stockton,
Mo. Small town patronage. • • •
Red Stallion in the Rockies (EL)—Arthur
Franz, Jean Heather, Wallace Ford. This was
our New Year's eve picture. With such a wellknown
star as the Red Stallion, the picture
had to be a hit. The human players were unknown
here but that really made no difference.
An excellent preview helped to sell this.
Played Sat. (preview). Sun. Weather: Fair.—
L. D. Montgomery, Melba Theatre, Oakwood,
Tex. Small to%Ti and rural patronage. • •
Tulsa (EL)—Susan Hayward, Robert Preston,
Pedro Armendariz. We gave this top running
time the first three days of the week.
The fire scene near the end was really somethin'
and raised the temperature in the house
—not that the auditorium was filled, as the
rain and snow kept them home. Business was
below average, but it is worth saving for better
attendance, best playing time, and better
weather.-Paul D. RatUff, Daytona Theatre,
Dayton, Ore. Small town and rural patronage.
•
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER
Any Number Can Play (MGM) — Clark
Maybe
We
Gable, Alexis Smith, Wendell Corey.
I'm wrong but I thought it was very good.
had more favorable comments on this than
on any Gable picture for a long time—and
almost average business, which Is easy to
take in this day of the declining boxoffice.
Played Sun., Mon.—W. O. Woody, Stockton
Theatre, Stockton, Mo. Small town patronage.
• • •
Big Jack (MGM)—Wallace Beery, Marjorie
Main, Richard Conte. When Wallace Beery
doesn't bring them in, business is bad, and
that's what happened here. The picture is
very so-so but should still do business—but it
didn't. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Snow.—
Bob Walker, Uintah Theatre, Fruita, Ck)lo.
Rural patronage. • • •
Neptune's Daughter (MGM)—Red Skelton,
Esther Williams, Keenan Wynn. This is one
of Metro's best. Skelton and Betty Garrett
make it click. "Baby, It's Cold Outside" should
have been, "Baby, It's Wet Outside." Sac
river was all over the country and cut off
about 25 per cent of my rural patrons.—W. O.
They Knew How to Sell
'That Midnight Kiss'
Xlt/E were pleased to have Fred and
3Iary Lind drop in on us Monday (23)
on their way to Florida for a vacation
trip. The Linds have the Ute Theatre at
Rifle, Colo., are readers of this department,
so felt they wanted to make a report
on "That Midnight Kiss" (MGM)
to fellow small town exhibitors.
"Mary and I had talked it over at the
breakfast table," said Fred. "We felt
this was such a good picture that it would
be a shame for certain people in our community
to miss it. So she suggested we
send out personal invitations to them
otherwise they might not notice it was
showing."
This the Linds did, and had double
their average business because of their
efforts. Now they are spreading the good
tidings to their fellow showmen that
when you have a good picture that attracts
a class audience, go after that attendance.
They think every small town
has potential patrons never reached by
routine B pictures and horse operas, but
who will respond when something really
good comes along.
Fred ought to know abont pictures. He's
been in the business since 1919, starting
as a booker for Paramount, and worked
also in Salt Lake City and Seattle, part
of the time with RKO Radio. The Linds
have had their present theatre for two
years. A daughter and her husband are
in charge while the parents take this trip.
War Pictures Back:
Aid to GI Fathers
EAGLE SQUADRON (FC)—Reissue.
Robert Stack, Diana Barrymore. Tliis
went over big here last Fri., Sat., Sun.
.Although we're the only drive-in opera

—
—
Uintah Theatre, Frulta, Colo. Rural patronage.
• • •
Panhandle (Mono)—Rod Cameron, Cathy
Downs, Reed Hadley. This is our first Monogram
plctui'e and we were well pleased with
it. It is a very good western action film and
drew about 125 per cent business. Played Fri.,
Sat. Weather: Pair. — Mrs. Pat Murphy.
Queen Theatre, Holliday, Tex. Oil field patronage.
• • •
PARAMOUNT
El Paso (Para)—John Payne, Gail Russell,
George "Gabby" Hayes. The title intrigues
'em, and when they arrived, they liked the
show. That's all we ask.—Frank Sabin, Majestic
Theatre, Eureka, Mont. Small town
patronage. • • •
El Paso (Para)—John Payne, GaU Russell,
George "Gabby" Hayes. Gabby furnishes the
right brand of comedy to make this glorified
sagebrusher a howling success in the small
town. Why in the devil didn't they put more
than one fleeting shot of him in the trailer?
Because of this and the fact that Payne is not
well enough known, business was nothing to
brag about. The story is okay, but at times
I thought some operator had mixed in a colored
reel of the Cisco Kid. It's worth playing,
if the price is right, but this is no super-western.
Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Perfect.
Bob Walker, Uintah Theatre, Fruita, Colo.
Rural patronage. • * •
Great Gatsby, The (Para) — Alan Ladd,
Betty Field, Macdonald Carey. When an exhibitor
knows better and wastes a Sun., Mon.
change, following the dictates of a producer,
that is one thing. How Alan and/or Paramount
got a large yacht off the Great Lakes
onto the Seven Seas, that's another thing.
Anyway, to make a sad situation short, we
took in $16.81 less than film guarantee.
Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Cold.—W. O.
Great To Be in Lobby
At the 'Spill/ He Says
ROMANCE ON THE HIGH SEAS—
Jack Carson, Jants Paige, Don DeFore.
This is a happy, gay, colorful musical
comedy that made a hit for Christmas.
Business was the best I had all month,
which didn't mean much in the worst
December I've ever had. My town ordinarily
doesn't go for this type, but they
sure went overboard for this one. It was
great to stand in the lobby at the "spill,"
for everyone praised it. Played Sun.,
Mon., Tues. Weather: Fair.—Bob Walker,
Unitah Theatre, Fruita, Colo. Rural
patronage. • • •
Sandberg, Castle Theatre, Huntington, Utah.
Small town patronage.
•
Great Gatsby, The (Para) — Alan Ladd,
Betty Field, Macdonald Carey. I have been
reading so many bad reports on this frorfi
fellow exhibitors, but had to play It anyhow,
liavmg bought it. It did not draw, but personally,
I liked it—and the few who saw it had
no complaints. Played Tues., Wed. Weather:
Cold.—Marcella Smith, Vinton Theatre, Mc-
Arthur, Ohio. Small town patronage. • •
Stampede (Mono) — Rod Cameron, Gale
Storm, Don Castle. Rod Cameron has been
very popular with east Texas fans since his
appearance in "Strike It Rich." Johnny Mack
Brown had a good sheriff role in the picture.
The highlight of the film was a knockdown,
dragout fight between Rod Cameron and two so hard they had stomach-aches. Played Sat.,
scoundrels, in which everything but the Mon. Weather: Cold.—S. N. Holmberg, Regal
kitchen sink was used or thrown. John Theatre, Sturgis, Sask. Small town patronage.
Wayne, Randolph Scott and several other
• • •
topnotchers could not have been better In
Sorrowful Jones (Para)—Bob Hope, Lucille
this scene. Rod Cameron of course emerged
Ball, Mary Jane Saunders. We gave this a
victorious after this bitter struggle—and just
three-day run; Sun., Mon., Tues. Our take was
in time, too. Some of my patrons were blue
lower on this one than on the previous Hope
in the face from holding their breath so long.
pictures, but honestly, was it Hope or the little
Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair.—L. D. Montgomery,
Melba Theatre, Oakwood, Tex. Small
miss? Who should get the credit for the few
who came? Should any exhibitor, fair to all
town and riu'al patronage. • •
concerned, state that Hope is slipping at the
Isn't It Romantic? (Para)—Veronica Lake,
Mona Freeman, Mary Hatcher. This is our
surprise picture of the year. Everyone came
out for it and loved it. Play it, brother. It is
worth playing. Some of the people laughed
Jerry Silver Returns
With Recent Reports
COMETIMES we do not hear from one
of our contributors for a long time and
then he will bob up in a new location
or in the same one but with a determination
to share again in sending reports
for fellow exhibitors. So we welcome
Jerry Silver back to these pages. Jerry
has the Cannon Theatre at Cannon Falls,
Minn., and writes:
'Tm writing again to repay the helpful
information I've been gleaning from
your magazine and those grand exhibitors
all over the nation."
Any other readers of these pages who
feel a little "guilty" about not contributing
to them?
boxoffice? We do feel It here. Weather:
Good. — Paul D. Ratliff, Daytona Theatre,
Dayton, Ore. Small town and rural patronage.
•
Trail of the Lonesome Pine, The (Para) —
Reissue. Fred MacMurray, Sylvia Sidney,
Henry Fonda. Everything was against us, the
weather, missout on the first night, but it
stiU gave us the best weekend in months. One
of tlie alltime great hits and it is just what
the doctor ordered for ailing boxoffice. Played
Thurs., Fri., Sat. — Ken Christianson, Roxy
Theatre, Washburn, N. D. Small town patronage.
• •
RKO RADIO
sJBest Years of Our Lives, The (RKO)—
Myma Loy, Predric March, Dana Andrews.
I finally quit resisting and played it. RKO
didn't get much but I went in the hole. If
they're as dissatisfied as I am, here is where
we part company. Played Tues., Wed., Thurs.
Weather: Cold and snow. — Bob Walker,
Uintah Theatre, Fruita, Colo. Rural patronage.
• • •
Gunga Din (RKO)—Reissue. Sam Jaffe,
Cary Grant, Douglas Fairbanks Jr. Business
was below average. The picture is too gruesome
for the status of the pubhc mind today.
It seems there are periods or cycles when people
can't get enough blood and thunder, but
A High Class Musical
It That's Your Meat
THAT MIDNIGHT KISS (MGM)—
Kathryn Grayson, Jose Iturbi, Ethel Barrymore.
Beautifully done, rich color and
full of music—no exhibitor needs a report
on this as he should know exactly
what to expect from previous offerings
of this type. If you can use high class
musicals, this is your meat. Played Sun.
through Tues. Weather: Fair.—Von Gulker,
Wilshire Theatre, FuUerton, Calif.
General patronage. *
now the trend is the other way. Slaughter by
the wholesale in this one, but the redeeming
fact on this reissue was the low price. Played
Sun., Mon. Weather: Fair and cold.—Jerry
Silver, Cannon Theatre, Cannon Falls, Minn.
Rural and small town patronage. •
ulchabod and Mr. Toad (RKO)—This Disney
cartoon feature did average business and
pleased all who came, who were mostly kids.
It is well worth playing. Played Sun., Mon.
Weather: Good. — E. M. Freiburger, Dewey
Theatre, Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage.
• • •
uPride of the Yankees (RKO) — Reissue.
Gary Cooper, Teresa Wright. This is still the
best baseball picture ever filmed, in my opinion,
and it did satisfactory midweek business.
Played Wed.. Thurs. Weather: Cold.—Mrs.
Pat Murphy, Queen Theatre, Holliday, Tejc
Oil field patronage. • • •
REPUBUC
Far Frontier, The (Rep)—Roy Rogers, Andy
Devine, Clayton Moore. This is a story of the
Mexican border and the patrol that is exciting
and entertaining. They said so when coming
out. — Frank Sabin, Majestic Theatre,
Eureka, Mont. Small town patronage. • • •
Grand Canyon Trail (Rep)—Roy Rogers,
Andy Devine, Poy Willing and Riders of the
Purple Sage. No, no! And now a murder In
a Roy Rogers film, complete with blood dripping
from a hanging corpse? Our juveniles
had a big let down. Has Roy given up making
clean, wholesome pictures? Roy, the kids
worship you. Keep your stories up where they
belong. Played Fri., Sat. Weather: Sleet.—
Jerry Silver, Carmon Theatre, Cannon Falls,
Minn. Rural and small town patronage. •
Kid From Cleveland, The (Rep)—George
Brent, Lynn Bari, Rusty Tamblyn. This is a
fair picture—not as good as I thought it would
be. It is slow and draggy. We had a few
walkouts and business was below average.
Played Wed., Thurs.—O. Fomby, Paula Theatre,
Homer, La. Small town patronage. * * *
Nighttime in Nevada (Rep)—Roy Rogers,
Andy Devine, Adele Mara. This picture didn't
have a chance to do business as on Friday
night the official opening of a $140,000 skating
rink cleaned out our crowd for two days.
We had a tiein with Quaker Oats company
on this one and gave away free autographed
photos of Roy and Trigger, but we could not
take them away from the rink. Played Thurs.,
Fri., Sat. Weather: Fah.—H. J. McFall, Lyric
Theatre, Russell, Man. SmaU town and rural
patronage.
• • •
Plunderers, The (Rep)—Rod Cameron,
Ilona Massey, Adrian Booth. This did average
business and should go over well in any
action house. It has good color and I had
(Continued on page 4)
BOXOFFICE BooldnGuJde : : February 4, 1950

Exhibitor Has His Say
(Continued from page 3)
a good print, so have no complaint. Played
Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Cold.—H. J. Mc-
Fall, Lyric Theatre, Russell, Man. Small town
and rural patronage. • * *
Sheriff of Cimarron (Rep)—Sunset Carson,
Linda Stirling, Riley Hill. I didn't think
Sunset Carson could make a good western.
This is the first that even rated fair and
the acting was done by amateurs. Business
was average, though, due to the co-feature.
Played Frl., Sat. Weather: Fair.—Ralph
Raspa, State Theatre, RivesviUe, W. Va.
Rural patronage. * * *
20th CENTURY-FOX
Belle Starr (20th-Fox)—Reissue, Randolph
Scott, Gene Tierney, Dana Andrews. We had
excellent business and our patrons were well
pleased. We can usually depend upon good
business with a reissued superwestern. This
picture has plenty of action and a good story.
Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. Weather: Fair.—E. A.
London, State Theatre, Olivet, Mich. Small
town and rural patronage. * *
Chicken Every Sunday (20th-Fox)—Dan
Dailey, Celeste Holm, Alan Young. This was
nothing to rave about. It fell down badly
the second and third nights—had no wordof-mouth
drawing power. Fox has slipped
badly in '49 but In '48 their product did top
business for me, which is hard to understand.
Played Mon., Tues., Wed. Weather:
Cold.—H. J. McFall, Lyric Theatre, Russell,
Man. Small town and rural patronage. * * *
Chicken Every Sunday (20th-Fox)—Dan
Dailey, Celeste Holm, Alan Young. I thought
the title of this one would be good for Christmas
day. It is a wonderful show and I
beamed all over the place with my thankful
radiance. The gross was low due to Christmas,
but my second day was almost as good
as my first. It is a picture I am proud I
played. Shown Sun., Mon. Weather: Fair.—
Fred G. Weppler, Colonial Theatre, Colfax,
111. Small town and rural patronage. * *
Deep Waters (20th-Fox) — Dana Andrews,
Jean Peters, Cesar Romero. I didn't notice
the copyright date on this one and can't find
it listed, but it turned out to be a wholesome
story of a boy who loved boats and water,
and it pleased our patrons. It is an excellent
family picture. Played midweek.—C. E. Bennewitz.
Royal Theatre, Royalton, Minn. Rural
*
patronage.
Everybody Does It (20th-Fox)—Paul Douglas,
Linda Darnell, Celeste Holm. This is a
good entertaining comedy with some high
class music which failed to draw average business.
The picture is well worth playing and
will please if you can get them to come. The
operatic singing may keep some away. Wc
broke even. Played Sun., Mon. Weather:
Crawiord More Appeal
Than Younger Stars
FLAMINGO ROAD (\VB)—Joan Crawford,
Sydney Greenstrect, Zachary Scott.
This is the best Crawford picture in
years. Don't be afraid to tell them so.
They'll agree with you. Crawford still
has more appeal (also boxoffice appeal)
than most of the young things around.
Played Sun., Mon.—W. O. Woody, Stockton
Theatre, Stockton, Mo. Small town
patronage. • • •
Good. — E. M. Preiburger, Dewey Theatre,
Dewey, Okla. Small town patronage. • • *
Announced 'Scary' Witch
But Toddlers Are Skeptics
OWIZARD OF OZ (MGM)—Reissue.
Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr. Aw,
the business you get when you run a free
show! This was my Christmas treat to
my patrons and it packed them in. Probably
I could have made some dough with
this one, but if you're going to give something
away, I feel you should give the
best and this is it. Every time the witch
came into the picture, I had to go down
and sit with some of the toddlers. I announced
before each show that the
witch would be "scary" but that she
wouldn't get off the screen, or wouldn't
hurt Dorothy—but I had a lot of skeptics
at every show. Ran it Wed., Thurs. during
the Christmas holidays. Weather:
Fair. — Bob Walker, Uintah Theatre,
Fruita, Colo. Rural patronage. • • •
and a half times as much business the second
night as we did the first. Played Wed., Thurs.
Weather: Fair. — L. D. Montgomery, Melba
Theatre, Oakwood, Tex. Small town and rural
patronage. • *
UNITED ARTISTS
Christmas Eve (UA) — George Raft, Joan
Blondell, Randolph Scott. With a different
title this picture should have done more business.
Some of the regulars would not come
to see it—they could not seem to understand
how a picture could be good or have any of
the action they like so well if it had a title
like this. Randolph Scott as one of the
adopted sons who was home for Christmas
Eve had a comedy role which was appreciated
by our slightly below average attendance.
Played Sat. (preview), Sun. Weather: Cold.
—L. D. Montgomery, Melba Theatre, Oakwood,
Tex. Small town and rural patronage. • *
Red River (UA)—John Wayne, Montgomery
Clift, Walter Brennan. This is the best superwestern
to play in our theatre for many
months. It has a fascinating story and plenty
of action, with preferred playing time at reasonable
flat rental. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat.
Weather: Fair.-E. A. London, State Theatre,
Olivet, Mich. Small town and rural patronage.
* •
Red River (UA)—John Wayne, Montgomery
Clift, Walter Brennan. This Is a big picture
with plenty of cattle, it is well produced, and
Picture Packs Wallop
And Business Good
HOME OF THE BRAVE (UA)—Douglas
Dick, Steve Brodle, Jeff Corey. This
picture should be played in every theatre
in the country. It packs a wallop
and should help America's No. 1 problem
today: Better understanding between
races. Business was good. Played
Tues., Wed. Weather: Fair.—E. A. London,
State Theatre, Olivet, Mich. Small
town and rural patronage. * *
Mr. Belvedere Goes to College (20th-Pox)—
Clifton Webb, Shirley Temple, Tom Drake.
"Belvedere" is a screen genius and also at the
boxoffice, as this picture gave above average
boxoffice for this time of the year. If we had
rrlore Belvedere pictures, more small town
theatres could make a go of It. Played Sun.,
Mon.—Ken Christianson, Roxy Theatre,
Washburn, N. D. Small town patronage. * *
My Gal Sal (20th-Fox)—Reissue. Rita Hayworth,
Victor Mature, John Sutton. Victor
Mature mugged all the way through this
black-and-white reissue of a Technicolor
is really a super-western. We didn't sell out
musical. The audience liked his particular
with it but did do extra business. Played
kind of mugging, though. Rita Hayworth?
Thurs., Fri. Weather: Rain and wind.—Harland
Rankin, Plaza Theatre, Tilbury, Ont.
Well, a wolf call is the only proper way to
express one's feelings about her. She was good
Small town patronage. * * *
even though she was not a good dancer at
the time the picture was made. This musical
has enough story with it to suit small town
patrons if you can get them in. We did two
UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL
Take One False Step (U-D—William Powell,
Shelley Winters, Marsha Himt. This is a
problem picture for us—above average entertainment,
but nothing to bring the patrons
in. It is a loss at the boxoffice. Played Thurs.,
Prl„ Sat. Weather: Cold.—Ken Christianson,
Roxy Theatre, Washburn, N. D. Small town
patronage.
Yon Gotta Stay Happy (U-D—Joan Fontaine,
James Stewart, Roland Young. And
those who will take a chance on it will be
happy—but in Fruita there were darned few
of these. It's a sweetheart of a comedy with
a hand-picked cast. Played Wed., Thurs.
Weather: Fair.-Bob Walker, Uintah Theatre,
Fruita, Colo. Rural patronage. • • •
WARNER BROS.
Big Punch, The (WB)—Wayne Morris, Lois
Maxwell, Gordon MacRae. Here's a dandy
little story of a young "holy Joe" who's handy
with his mitts. If you tell them personally
that the trailer is poor and that It is actually
the story of a small town minister, you'll get
more In to see it. Business was lousy, but I
used it the week before Christmas, when
nothing pulls. It was doubled with "Quick
on the Trigger" for Fri., Sat. Weather: Snow.
—Bob Walker, Uintah Theatre, Fruita, Colo.
Rural patronage. * * *
It's a Great Feeling (WB)—Dennis Morgan,
Doris Day, Jack Carson. Comments on
this varied a great deal, from "silly" to
"swell." The guest stars were handled very
well, with lots of comedy. I'm still wondering
where the Apache Dance scenes came from,
and why. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Bad.
—W. O. Woody, Stockton Theatre, Stockton,
Mo. Small town patronage. • * •
Story of Seabiscuit, The (WB) — Shirley
Temple, Barry Fitzgerald, Lon McCallister. A
nice story and clean race horse picture that
had more enthusiastic comment from the
handful of people who braved a howling
blizzard to see it, than any picture shown recently.
Played Sun., Mon.—Jerry Silver, Cannon
Theatre, Cannon Falls, Minn. Rural and
•
small town patronage.
MISCELLANEOUS
False Colors (SR)—Reissue. William Boyd,
Robert Mitchum. This old western starring
Hopalong Cassidy and Bob Mitchum brought
me no business. They should make new
trailers for these reissues. The western was
really a fair picture. Played Fri., Sat.
Weather: Cold.—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre,
RivesviUe, W. Va. Rural patronage. • • *
BOXOFnCE BookinGuide :: February 4, 1950

Alpbabetkal Picture Guide Index and REVIEW DICES

t+ Very Good; + Good: * Fair nr;

H Very Good; + Good; * Fcdr; '
-

I
FEATURE CHART
May
7
May
14
May
21
May
28
Jun
4
Jun
11
Jun
18
Jun
25
Jul
2
Jul
9
Jul
16
Jul
23
Jul
30
Aug
6
Aug
13
Aug
20
Aug
27
Sep
3
Sep
10
Sep
17
Sep
24
Oct
1
Oct
8
Feature productions, liBted 07 cempony. in order of release. Number in square ia notion
release date. Production number is at right. Number in parentheses is rxinning time,
iurnished by home oiiice oi distributor; checkup with local exchange is recommende
R—is review date. PG—is Picture Guide page number. Symbol U indicates BOXOFFIC
Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Symbol O indicates color photography.
COLUMBIA EAGLE LION FILM CLASSICS LIPPERT M-G-M MONOGRAM PARAMOUNT
(106) Aclv-Dr 14
WE WERE STRANGERS
Jennifer Jooes-J. Qarddd
Pedro
Armendarlz
R— May 7— PG-1033
(1201 Com-Dr 919
QUARTET
II Baddeley-C. Parker
Dick Bogarde-Mervyn Jolmi
R—Apr. 2— l'O-1023-A
(70) Outd'r-Mus 183
RIDERS OF THE
WHISTLING PINES
Gene Autry-JImroy Lloyd
R—June 4— HG-1041
^ (79) Musical 101
Make Belleie Ballroom
Jerome Courlland
Ruth Warrlck-F. Lain*
R— May 21— PG-103T
B (81) Mystery 109
CRIME DOCTOR'S DIARY
Warner Bajter
Dunne-Lois Maxwell
S.
R-Wune 11— PO-1043
(90) HLsl-Dr
LUST FOR GOLD
Ida Luplno-Clcnn Ford
Gig Young-W. Prince
R— May 28— PG-1039
(81) Drama 14
JOHNNY ALLEGRO
George Raft-Nlna Foch
George Macready-W. Geer
R—June 25— PO- 1047
SS (76) Melodrama 103
The Secret of St. Ua
Richard Ney-V. Brown
Henry Danlell
R—July a— PO-1049
IS (56) Western 182
THE BLAZING TRAIL
Charles Biarrelt-Fred Sean
Smiley Burnette-M. Stapp
II— Aug. 13— PG-lOei
63 (65) Drama 102
KAZAN
Stephen Dunne-Joe Sawyer
Lola Maxwell-Zoro
R—July 2— PG-1049
gH (66) Drama 119
Law of tha Barbary Coast
Gloria Henry-S. Dunne
Adele Jergeoi
R—July 16—PO-l()54
(90) Weslern-Dr 147
of The Doolins Oklahoma
Randolph Scott-J. Ireland
(70) West-Dr 186
RIM OF THE CANYON
186) Drama 148
ANNA LUCASTA
P. Goddnrd-B. Crawford
John Ireland-W, Bl.ihop
R—July 16— PO- 1064
(71) Com-Melo 930
SHAMROCK HILL
Peggy Ryan-Ray ftlcDonald
Trudy Marshall
R— .May 14— PO-103B
(131) Drama 990
DUEL IN THE SUN
(95) Mys-M'drama 922
Sleeping Car to Trieste
Jean Kent-Albert Lleven
(117) Drama 09
THE PARADINE CASE
(72) Drama 93
ALIMONY
Martha VIckers-John Beal
149 (96) Comedy 992
MR. 6LAN0INGS BUILDS
HIS DREAM HOUSE
(93) Com-Dr 968
A CANTERBURY TALE
(901 Cum-Fantaay 939
Don't Take It to Heart
Richard Greene-A. Drayton
Patricia Medina- R. Dlrd
R—Jan. 29— PO- 1007
(91) Drama 924
Mr. Perrin and Mr. Traill
Darld Farrar-Greta Gynt
Marlus Goring- R. Huntley
R— Dee. 25—PO-997
(96) Melodrama 964
MY BROTHERS KEEPER
Jack Warner-Jane Uyltoo
George Cole-Bill Owen
R—Mar. 9— PG-1018
(90) Drama 99
PORTRAIT OF JENHIE
Jennifer Jonet-J. Cotten
Barrymore
Ethel
R—Jin 1— PO-999
(62) Documentary 944
BLACK SHADOWS
Filmed In African
Congo Jungles
R—Oct. 8— PG-1077
(S (93) Drama 961
WOMAN IN THE HALL
Ursula Jeans-Cecil Parker
(95) Drama
DEOEE
Ji] 160) Drama 133 O (77) Drama 940
WATERLOO ROAD
Lone Wolf and Hli Lady
Ron Vincent
Randell-June (72) Comedy 009
Mowbray
DOWN MEMORY LANE
Alan
R—July 30— PO-1058 Ring Crosby-W. C. Fields
m (54) Western 184 g3 (941 Comedy
EASY MONEY
South of Death Valley
Charles Rtarrett-Qall Dails Grela Gynt
Smiley Burnelte
13— PO-1061
Dennis Price
R— Mar. 12—PO-1017
-
Aug.
9 (61) Drama 120 (89) Drama 001
AIR HOSTESS
THE BLACK BOOK
Rnhcrt Oimmlngs-A. rinss Ford-ninrla Henry
Tlahl
tVllllam Wright
R—July 23— PO-1055
Richard
R— May
Baseharl-J. Barker
21— PO-1038
(93) Drama 148
MR. SOFT TOUCH
filenn Ford-Evehu Keyea
R—Sept. 10— PO-10e9
(70) Wettern 184
The Cowboy and the Indian)
Gene Aulry-Shella Ryan
Frank RIchards-Ctiamploo
R— Dec. 17— PO- 1099
H (69) Mystery 110
The Devil's Henchmtn
Warner Bailer
Mary Beth Hughes
R—Sept. 10— PG- 1069
g (66) Western 183
Horsemen of the Sierras
Charles Slarrett
Smiley Burnette-Lols Ball
R—Sept. 10— PG- 1069
(87) Comedy 222
Miss Grant Takes Richmond
Lucille Ball-Wllllam Holden
Janis Carter-James QleasoD
R—Oct. 1— PG1076
[il (66) Comedy 203
Blondie Hits the Jackoot
Penny SIngleton-A. Lake
Urry SImma-M Kent
I R—Oct. 15— P(3-10a0
(94) Drama n(!t
A PLACE OF ONE'S OWN
James Mason-M. Lockwoud
(75) Drama 004
ZAMBA
(95) Drama 969
AGAINST THE WIND
Jack Wamer-8. SIgnoret
Robert Bcatty-0. Jackson
R—June 4— PG-1042
(87) Drama 942
ONCE UPON A DREAM
0. WIthera-O MIddleion
Orlfflib Jones-Betty Lynne
R—July 9— PG-10 91
(85) Drama 914
THE WEAKER SEX
Cecil Parker-Ursula Jeans
Joan Hopkins- Derek Bond
R—July 18— PO- 1053
(78) Drama 007
TRAPPED
Lloyd Br1dge?-John Hoyt
Barbara
R—Oot.
Payton-James Todd
1— PG-1076
sg (91) Drama
NOT WANTED
3ally Forrest-K. Brasselle
Leo Penn-Oorolhy Adams
R—June 25— PO-1048
(g (97) Dociim-nrama
LOST BOUNDARIES
Beatrice Pearson-M. Ferret
Su.ian Douglas- R Hylton
R—July 2— PG-1050
§3 (60) Melodrama 481S
ARSON. INC.
R Lowery-Anne Gwyniid
Marcla Mae Jones
R—May 21— PG-1037
[9] (64) Drama 4826
THERE IS NO ESCAPE
Carol Tburstoo-D. BJcki
M (62) Drama 48
RINGSIDE
Don Barry-Shella Ryan
Tom Brown-.M. Dean
R—July 23—PO- 1096
@ (60) Drama 48
SKY LINER
Richard Travls-P. Blake
Rochelle Hudson
R— Aug. 6— PQ-1099
g (78) Western 4822
GRAND CANYON
Rlrhard Arlen
Mary Beth Hughes
R— Sept. 3— PG-lOeS
H (110) Musical 926
UQBarkleys of Broadway
Fred Astalre-Glnger Rogerfl
•scar Lecant-Blllle Burke
R—Apr. 18—PQ-1028
E3 (112) Drama 826
EDWARD, MY SON
8. Tracy-Deborah Kerr
Ian nunter-U McOrath
n—Apr. 3(>— Pa-1031
S (93) Mus-Com 927
©NEPTUNE'S DAUGHTER
Red Skelton-B. Wllllama
R. Montalban-K. Wynn
R—May 21— PG- 1038
[B (64) Mystery 4824
SKY DRAGON
Roland Wlnters-Keye Luk«
Tim Rym-Noel Nelll
R—July 23— PG-10B6
m (92) Cost-nr 48U
BRIDE OF VENGEANCE
P. Goddard-Jotin Lund
M. Carcy-AIbert Dekker
R—Apr. 2— PG-1023-A
E9 (5S) Western 4863
Across the Rio Grande
Jimmy Wakely
Cannonball Taylor
Reno Browne
a (68) Mu3-M'drama 4810 m (92) Super-West 481!
MISSISSIPPI RHYTHM ©STREETS OF LAREDO
JImmIe Davis-Lee White William Holden-W. BendU
Sue England-V. A. Borg M. Carey-Mona Freeman
R—Feb. 12—PO-IOia
3) (58) Western 4854
WEST OF ELDORADO
Johnny Mack Brown
Mai Terhune
01 (57) Comedy 4827
LEAVE IT TO HENRY
Raymond Walburn
Waller Catlett-Gary Gray
R_May 28—PO-1040
H (64) Comedy 481T
HOLD THAT BABY
Leo Oorcey
Bowery Boyi
(S (106) Drams 929 SI (102) Drama AA13
OTHE STRATTON STORY By Brother Jonathan
James Stewart
Michael Deniseo-D. Gray
June AUysoD
R—May 7—PO-1034
EH (1021 Drama 930
ANY NUMBER CAN PLAY
Clark Oable-Alexts Smith
W. Corey-Audrey Totter
R—June 4— P0-104a
e (102) Miis-Con 939
©IN THE GOOD OLD
SUMMERTIME
Judy Garland-Van Johnson
R—June 25— PO-1048
[D (1101 Drama 923
THE GREAT SINNER
Gregory Peck-Ava Gardner
Walter Huston
R—July 2— PO-1050
962 BD (114) Drama 93
MADAME BOVARY
Jennifer Jones-J. Mason
S! (90) Drama
(Swedish)
FRUSTRATION
Holger Lowenadler
R—Oct 1— Pfl-IOTB
Louis Jourdan-V. Hefllo
R—July 30— PG- 1098
5| (94) Mystery 033
SCENE OF THE CRIME
Van Johnson-Arlene Dahl
Gloria Defla»en-Tom Drake
R—June 25— PO-1048
(96) MuJical 1
ID
©THAT MIDNIGHT KISS
Ka(hr)*n Grayson-M. Lanss
Elhel Barrtmore-J. Iturbl
R— Aug. 27— PO-1066
E) (92) Drama
THE SECRET GARDEN
Margaret O'Brien
n. Marshall- D. Stockwell
R— Apr. 30— PO-1031
gS (98) Comedy
The Doctor and the Girl
Glenn Ford-Janet Leigh
Charles Coburn
R—Sept. 10—PO-IOTO
83 (66) Western 4864
BRAND OF FEAR
Jimmy Wakely
Cannonball Taylor
93 (64) Drama 4813
FORGOTTEN WOMEN
(78) West-Drama AA9
MASSACRE RIVER
Guy Madlson-Rory Calhoun
a (69) Western 4842
SHADOWS OF THE WEST
Whip Wilson
Andy Clyde
511 (67) Western 4820
TRAIL OF THE YUKON
KIrby Grant-8. Dalbert
R—Aug. 6—PO-1059
(7] (67) Western 4866
RANGE JUSTICE
Johnny Mack Brown
Mai Terbune
53 (71) Drama 4808
Joe Palooka the Counter
in
Punch
Leon Errol-Joe Rlrkwood
H (78) Western AA14
STAMPEDE
Rod Cameron-Gale Stonn
Johnny Mack Brown
R— Apr. 30— PO-1031
H (60) Western 4843
HAUNTED TRAILS
Whip Wilson
Andy Clyde
0) (67) Comedy 4812
JIGGS AND MAGGIE IN
JACKPOT JITTERS
Rente Biaoo-Joe Yule
EH (66) Western 4866
ROARING WESTWARD
Jimmy Wakely
Cannonball Taylor
O (63) Comedy 4818
ANGELS IN DISGUISE
Leo Oorcey
Bowsry Boyi
(66) tutd'r-Act 480S
BLACK MIDNIGHT
Roddy McDovall
Damlan O'I'lyno
El (96) Mystery 4811
MANHANDLED
D. Lamour-Slerling Haydai
Dan Duryea- Irene Herrej
R—Apr. 16—PG-1027
a (88) Com-Drsma 481J
SORROWFUL JONES
Bob Hope-Lucille Ball
W. Demarest-B, Cabot
R—Apr. 16—PG-1027
g (70) Drama 481
SPECIAL AGENT
William Eytbe-G. HeetM
Laura ElUot-P. Valentine
R—Apr. SO—PG-1032
W (91) Drama 4821
THE GREAT GATSBY
Alan Ladd-Betty Field
Macdonald Carey
R— Apr. 30— PO-1032
(D (98) Musical 4901
TOP 0' THE MORNING
BIng Crosby-Ann Blyth
Barry
Fitzgerald
R— Aug. 6— PG-1060
S (105) Drama 4902
ROPE OF SAND
Burt Lancaster-C. CalTet
Paul Henreld-P. Lorre
R—July 2—PO-1060

'
MAKE
I«||
rr
RKO
RADIO
(01) Western 823
USTLERS
Im Hull Itlcbard Martin
arths Uycr-Steve Brodle
—Mar. 26— I'ai0:i2
g (73) ThrlllM 826
HE WINDOW
obby Driscull-B. Bale
. Kcnwdy-ltiitb Roman
—May 14— PO-1035
g (911 ComUr 924
HE JUDGE STEPS OUT
\tiD 8uliitm-A. Knox
leorge Toblaa
t—May 14— PO-103B
ai (88) West-Dr 926
ROUGHSHOD
B. Bicrllnj-a. Orahame
K—May 21—PG-103T
Blebird Martin
B— Aug. 27— Pn-1086
B 189) Drama 091
flOSEANNA McCOY
Raymond Masacy
Charles Blrkford-F. (Iringer
R— Aug. 20—PO1063
GD 177) Drama 003
EASY LIVING
Victor Malure-Ludlle Ball
Uiabetb Scott-Sonny Tu(U
B— Aug. 13— PO-1062
B 1601 Traiclog 004
OSAVAGE SPLENDOR
Afrlcu Traielog
B—July
30—PQ-IOBT
B (60) Wnitcrn 013
MASKED RAIDERS
Tim Ilolt-Rlcbard Martin
Marjorle Lord-Uar; Oraj
B—Oct. 1— P(]-1076
SH (681 Drama 01*
STRANGE BARGAIR
Marlba Scotl-Jeflrey Lynn
Si 1611 Drama Oil
ARCTIC FURY
IE (68) Cartoon 093 iU (60) Western 869
Olcbabod and Mr. Toad SAN ANTONE AMBUSH
Narration by
Monte Hale-Roy Barcrofl
Bing Oosby-Badi Rathbooe
R—Sept. 3— PO-1067
Bette Danlela-Paul
H—Oct
Uurst
15— PO-1079
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
REPUBLIC
a (6U) Western 8
Frontier Investigator
.^llan Lane-Eddy Waller
Hoy Barcroft
1!—.May 21—PG-1038
a I6U) Western 852
Law of the Golden West
Monte Hale
Paul Hurst
m (60) Western 863
Outcasts the Trail
of
M.uite
Jiff
Paul
Hale
Donnell
Hurst
§11 (90) Outd'r-Dr 811
©HELLFIRE
WllUam Elllott-Jtm Darts
Marie WUidsor
R—June 11—PO-1043
Waller Brennar
R— Aug 20— Pn-1064
5% 1601 Weslirn 867
BANDIT KING OF TEXAS
Allan "Rocky" Lane
Eddy Waller-Jim Nolan
R—Oct. 8— PO-1078
(D (89) Drama 4001
The Kid From Cleveland
Gi-orge Brent-LyfiD Barl
Cleveland
lndl;ins
10— PO-1070
R—Sept.
^ (CO) Miludrn 819
Post Office Investigator
m (67) Oijtdr-Mus 8
©DOWN DAKOTA WAY
Ruy Rogers- Dale Gvans
a (60) Drama 8;
FLAME OF YOUTH
Barbra Fuller-D. Nolan
Ray McDonald-M. Carr
R—Oct. 8— PO-1078
[g (100) Drama 4802
The Fighting Kentuckian
John Wayne-Vera Ralstoa
Philip Dorn-Ollver Ha/dj
R— Sept IT— P0.1071
20TH-FOX
(831 fi.mecly 913
MR. BELVEDERE
GOES TO COLLEGE
Clifton Wcbti-Shirky temple
It—\|jr. 9- l'U-1020
(79) Cost-Ur
THE FAN
Jeanne Craln-M. CarroU
G. Sanders- Richard Gree
R— Apr 9— l'O-1026
Itl4i Drama
TUCSON
Jimmy Lydon
Penny Edwards
R—June 4— PG-1041
814
(91) Drama 004
THE FORBIDDEN STREET
D Andrevvs-.M. U'llara
D. 8 Tborndlke-D. Hart
R— May 7— i'U-1034
(77) Cuuiedy 016
©BEAUTIFUL BLONDE
FROM BASHFUL 6EN0
Betty Grable-Cesar Rumero
R— .May 28— l'G-1040
(89) Comedy 9
Happens Every Spring
It
Ray .Mllland-Jean I'elers
Paul Douglas-Alan Hale
R— .May 14— l'Q-1036
(77) Outd'r-Dr 918
©SAND
.Mark Sleteni-Coleen Gray
Rory Calhoun- Bob Patten
R—Apr. 30— l'a-1031
(94) Drama 922
UCome to the Stable
Lnrella Young-C. Ilulm
Hugh .Marluue-T. Gomel
R—June 25— l'G-1047
UNITED ARTISTS
m (02) Drama GO
OUTPOST IN MOROCCO
George Ra(l-M. Windsor
Akim Taujiruff-Jobn LItel
II— Apr 2— PO-1024-A
a (02) Western 6
THE GAY AMIGO
Duncan Renaldu-Armlda
Leo Carrlllo-Joe "Sawyer
II— May 28— PG-1040
SS (KOI Drama 608
CHAMPION
Kirk Douglas-M. Maxvell
A. Kennedy- Ruth Roman
R— Mar 19— PG-1019
S3 179) Adv. Cum 610
AFRICA SCREAMS
Rud Abboii-Uiu Costello
Clyde Uealty-Krank Buck
II— May 7— PO-1033
m (86) Drama 612
HOME OF THE BRAVE
J, Edwards- Douglas Dick
Lloyd Bridges-Sieve Brudle
R— Apr 30— I'O-IOSl
ES (01) Western
DARING CABALLERO
I tuncan Itenoldo
Leo
Carrlllo
R— Aug. 6— PG-1059
OS (89) Melodrama 60l
TOO LATE FOR TEARS
LIzabcth 8cott-D Duryca
D. DeFore-A. Kennedy
R— Apr. 16— PG- 1028
(109) Comedy
Ul Was I Male War Bride
Cary Grant-Ann Sheridan
.Marlon ilarshall-R Stuart
II— Aug 13— PG-10e2
(941 Drama 92
THIEVES' HIGHWAY
Richard Conte-Jtck Oakte
V. Cortese-Lce J. Cobb
R—Sfol 10—PO-1070
AkIm Tamlroff-P, l.allmore
R— Aug 27— PG- 1 006
UNIV.-INT'L
B (91) Drama 6
City Across the River
8. iMcNally-Sue England
P. Fernandez-T. Hitler
R— Mar. 5— PO-IOIS
(09) Drama 696 (84) Drama 822
ARCTIC MANHUNT
SS
NIGHT UNTO NIGHT
II. Reagan-V. Llndforl
.Mlkcl Conrud-C. Thurston
Hally
B Crawfurd-R. DeCamp
Cassell
II— Sept. 17— PO-1071 II— Apr 10— PG-1028
(99) Drama 683
THE LADY GAMBLES
B. 8tari»yck-8. .\k^ally
li. Preston-Edllh Barrett
R— Mav 14— PG- 1 036
[S (841 Drama 688
OiiU'r-Dr 8!
ILLEGAL ENTRY
lluuard Du(f-Marta
El (94)
COLORADO TERRITORY
Mayo
Toren Joel .Me«a-Vlri;lnla
George Brent-Giir Moore Henry Mull-D. Malone
R—June 18— PG-104e
(86) Mn
11— May 21— PQ-1038
087
ONE WOMAN'S STORY
Ann T(idd-Claude Rains
Trevor Howard
R—June 4— rG-1042
(94) Myslery 691
TAKE ONE FALSE STEP
William Puwell-M. Hunt
8. Wtnlers-James Gteuon
R—June 4— l'G-1041
(89) Wesl-Dr 680
©CALAMITY JANE AND
SAM BASS
Yvonne DeCarlo-R. Duff
R—June 11— PO- 1044
(09) Comedy 701
WOMAN HATER
Stewart Granger-R. Sqtllre
Bdwige FeuUlere
R—«opL 3— PG-1067
(79) tlelodrama 700
JOHNNY STOOL PIGEON
Dan Duryea-lluward Duff
ShrHey WInlerl
R—Julv 23— l'O-1055
[D (1051 Romance 704
©THE BLUE LAGOON
Jean 81mmons-N. Purcell
Donald Houston
R— Aug 0— PO-1060
(92) Dri
Once More. My Darling
R, Mnntcnmerv-A, BIyth
Jane CowlR WInleri
R— July 30— PG-1097
703
(81) Musleal 705
©Yes, Sir, Tliat'i My Baby
Donald O'Connor
Charles CuliurnO, DcHaven
R— Aug 20— PO- 1064
(84) Drama 61(| (84) West-Drama 7116
BS
REO LIGHT ©Gal Who Took the West
LWge R^t-VlrglnlB May* Vvonne DeCarlo-Myrna Dell
Gene Loekhart-B MacLaiie
11— Aug. 20— PG 1063
Diarlw CuUum-Scoll Brady
R—Sept. 24— l'O-1074
T] I on I Western 620
SATAN'S CRADLE
Duncan Renaldo-Ann Savage
Leo Carrlllo-D. Fowley
R— Nov 19— PO- 1091
WARNER BROS.
S (77) Drama 023
©The Younger Brothers
Wayne Murrls-Janls Ptlge
B Rennell-G. Brooks
R—.May 7—PG-1U33
m (113) Drama 827
THE FOUNTAINHEAD
Gary Cooiwr-Patrlda Neal
Raymond Mossey-K. Smith
R—June 25—PQ-1048
El (78) Dnmi 828
Girl Frsm Jones Btach
Virginia Mayo-B. Bracken
Ronald Reagan- Dera Drake
R^lune 2(^— PC-1047
a (106) Musical
UOLOOK FOR THE
828
SILVER LININ6
June llarer-Ray (tol«r
R—July a— PO-I048
T| (64) Comedy BSt
ONE LAST FLING
Alexis 8mltb-Z.
B—July
gcott
8— PO-1061
(S4) Cnm-Dr 702 51 (85) Comedy 83
©It's a Great Feeling
Abbott and Coslello Meet
Dennis Morgan- Doris Day
the Killer.
n— Aug.
Boris KarlofI
13- PG-1061 Jack Carson-nill Goodwin
R—.Inly 30— PG-1058
(100) Act Ion- Dr 709
SWORD IN THE DESERT
Andreivs-Marta Toren
Stephen .McNally II French
R—Sept. 3—PG 1068
(79) Drama
ABANDONED
Dennis O'Keefe-M.
Rambeau
Oale Slorm-Jeff Chandler
R—fict ]$—Pn- 108(1
m (IH) Con-Myi 901
WHITE HEAT
James Cagfley-V. Mtyo
Edmond U llrlcn
R— Aug 27- PO-1069
m 169) Dri 802
the Street
House Across
Wayne Murrts
Janls Paige- Rruce Bennett
R— Aug 20— PG-I0U3
& (1161 War Oraot 803
©TASK FORCE
Gary Cooper-Jane Wyatt
Wayne tlorrla-W. Brennan
R—Sept. 3— PG-I068
a (117) Drama 804
©UNDER CAPRICORN
Ingrld Bergman-J. OUea
MIehael Wlldlni-C. Parker
R—Rent 17— Pfl-lrt71
FEATURE CHART
<
MISCELLANEOUS

FEATURE CHART
CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES
Endini)

«rr

'
I
L8.6
.
SHORTS CHART
Short subjects, listed by company, in order oi release. Running time {ollows
title. First date is national release, second the date of review in BOXOFFICE.
Symbol between dates is rating from the BOXOFFICE review: 4+ Very Good.
+ Good. — Fair. — Poor. = Very Poor. O Indicates color photography.
Prod.
No.
Columbia
Title
el.
Oati Rating Rtv'd
ASSORTED COMEDIES
1435 Flunj by a Fling (16) . 5-12 + 10. 1
1426 Microspook (16) 6-9
1436 Clunked in the Clink (16) 7-13 + U-19
1949'S0 SEASON
the Lurch
2411 V/ailing in
(IS'/j) 9-8 4- 11-15
2421Suoer W(>l( (16) 1013 +f 1-21
2422 Wha' Happen? (leVi) . .11-10 + 2- i
2412 Let Covin Your Aerial
(17) U-17
2423 French Fried Frolic
(16'/,) 12- 8
2413 His Bailing Beauty (18) 1-12
2424 Hold That Monkey (. .).. 2-16
CAVALCADE OF BROADWAY
2651 Caff Society (11) 11-17 * 1-21
2652 Blue Angel (.) 1-26
COLOR FAVORITES
(Technicolor Reissues)
1608 Two Laiy Crows (7) 7-13
1949-50 SEASON
2601 The Foxy Pup (7) 9- 1
(7'/i) . 2602 Window Shopping
2603 Happy Toll (7) 11-3 10- 6
+ 1-21
2604 Hollywood Sweepstakis
(8) 12-1
2S05 Poor Elmer (8) 12-29
2606 Ye Olde Swap Shoope (8) 1-19
2607 Kangaroo Kid (71/2) 2- 2
COLOR RHAPSODIES
1504 Grape Nutly (6) 4-14 1505 Cat-Tastrochy (6) 6-30 +
COMEDY FAVORITES
(Reissues)
1445 A Rookie's Cookie (17).. 5-19
1446 Crazy Like a Fox (18'/,) 6-16 ±
1949-50 SEASON
2431 Three Blonde Mice (16).. 9-29 +
2432 The Spook Speaks (18). 10-20 (+
2433 Love in Gloom (19) ... 12-15
2436 Calling All Curtains (16) 2-9
COMMUNITY SINGS
16S6 No. 6 My Blue Hea«en
(91/j) 7-7
FaM NOVELTIES
1902 America's Heritage ol Hospitality
(10'/2) 8-25 + 12. 3
2901 Yukon Canada (10) 12-22
JOLLY FROLICS
2501 Ractime Bear (7) 9-29 + 1. 7
2502 Punchy De Leon (S'/z) 112
ONE-REEL SPECIAL
1553 No. 3 Candid Microphone
(10) 8-19
1949-50 SEASON
2551 No. 1 Candid Mierophoni
(9) 10-27
2552 No. 2 Candid Microphone
(11) 12-29
2750 The Sound Man (10) 1-19 -H- 12-24
2553 Candid Microphone (..).. 2-23
SCREEN SNAPSHOTS
1859 Hollywood's Hapoy Homes
(9'/2) 6-16
1860 Howdy Podner (9i/j) .... 7-20
1949-50 SEASON
2851 Spin That Platter (11).. 9-lS
2852 Motion Picture Mothers, Inc.
(9) 10-13
2853 Hollywood Rodeo (91/2) . .11-17
2854D.se Jockeys U.S.A. (10). 12-15
2855 The Great Showman (10) 1-2S
10-
11-19
1- 7
H 9-17
± 1-7
STOOGE COMEDIES
1408Feulin' Around (16) 7- 7 -f 9-3
1407 Hokus Pokus (16) 8-13 ± 8-13
1949-50 SEASON
2401 Malice In the Palace (16) 9- 1 * 12- 3
2402 Vagabond Loafers (16). 10- 6 + 1-7
2403 Dunked in Ihe Deep (17) 11-3
2404 Punchy Cowpunchers (17) 1-5
240SHugs and Mugs (16) 2-2
THRaLS OF MUSIC
1952 MIguelito Valdes & Orch.

20th Century-Fox
Prod. No. Title Rel. Dalt RatiiiQ B«»'il
DRIBBLE PUSS PARADE
9901 Satisfied Saurians (9).... Mar. + 3-12
FEMININE WORLD
9601 Talented Beauties (Vyvyan
Doniier) (11) J""'
9602 Fashions of Yesteryear
(Ilka Chase) (8) Nov.
MARCH OF TIME
Vol. 15, No. 2 Asia's New Voice
(IS)
f«l>-
Vol. 15, No. 3 Wish You Were Here
(18) M»r-
Vol. 15, No. 4 Report on the Atom
(20) *P'-
Vol 15, No. 5 Sweden Looks Ahead
(IS)
Ma>
Vol. 15, No. 6 It's in the Groove
(19) J""
Vol. 15, No. 7 Stop— Heavy TraUicI
(18) J"!'
Vol. 15, No. 8 Farminij Pays Off
(18) *"«•
Vol. 15, No. 9 Policeman's Holiday
(18) Sept.
Vol 15, No. 10 The Fioht for Belter
Schools (20) Oct.
Vol. 15. No. 11 MacArthur's Japan
(18) NO'-
Vol. 15, No. 12 A Chance to Live
(18)
+

—
SHORTS REVIEWS
Opinions on tlie Current Short Sub'iects-
Wha' Happen?
Columbia (AU-SUr Comedy) 16H Mlns.
Jewel of the Baltic I xL^
20th-Fox (Movietone Adventure) 8 Mins. Ill f f f i? IVCVr^fCdd
A/pwcrPp/c
Good. Vera Vague Is convinced by her doctor
that she is a kleptomaniac during fits ol holm, capital of Sweden, one of the cleanest Good. Tlie Teclinlcolor camera visits Stock-
Movietone News, No. 8:
amnesia. She reads of a stolen necklace and and most beautiful cities of Europe. Scenes
mistakenly thinks the one her husband tries of the old town are contrasted with the new
to surprise her with is it. There is a mix-up and some e.xcellent shots are given of the
when she tries to return the wrong necklace, House of Parliament and the famed housing
a jealous wife thinking she is hubby's gal developments. The spectator also sees some
friend. Complications ensue when she is highlights of the royal family's activities.
caught taking a shower In the wrong house,
building to a slam-bang finish.
Paint Pot Symphony
20th-Fox (Terrytoon) 7 Mlns.
Very good.
Crashing the Movies
A delightful and different Paramount News, No. 45:
Finland's presidential election;
Technicolor cartoon. A trio of wacky house
MGM (Pete Smllh Specialty) 8 Mlns.
painters, a dog, a cat and a bird, perform
Good. This presents a number of wacky an involuntary ballet on a high scaffold a.s
stunts by means of which nuts have crashed they clumsily attempt to decorate a very tall
the movies. It Is entertaining and the commentary
skyscraper. Their antics are unfolded to the
Universal News, No. 320:
is good, but it consists largely of music of Strauss waltzes and Zampa's over-
clips from films and lacks the usual Pete ture. The finale is a paint-splashing bit
Smith Imaginative treatment. Among the which is really colorful—to say the least.
stunts are those performed by a human cannonball,
a man who jumps from a speeding
auto and a motorcyclist who drives through
a sheet of glass.
Freddie Slack and
Orchestra
snow plow for Italy ;
UnlT.-Int'l (Name Band Musical) 15 Mlns.
Good. Produced with careful attention to
Little Quacker
background detail and
Movietone News, No. 9:
sufficient variety of
MGM (Tom and Jerry Cartoon) 7 Mins.
camera angles to highlight the personalities
Good. Tom, the cat, swipes a duckling egg.
as well as the music. Teen-agers, as weU as
It hatches and he has visions of roast duckling,
but Jerry intervenes. After a series of
adults who like lively music, ought to go for
it. The number will fit into the better type
wild chases, Tom corners the duckling and
program for A houses and should merit mention
in the newspaper ads and lobby displays.
Jerry, but the duckling's father, built like a
prizefighter, shows up in time. It is well
News of the Day, No. 243 :
If there is room on the marquee, it would be
drawn and has some good gags. In Technicolor.
worthwhile to give it space as an added draw.
Songs of the Range
Saturday Evening Puss
(Sing and Be Happy Series)
MGM (Tom and Jerry Cartoon) 7 Mins. Univ.-Int'l
10 Mlns.
Good. The sleep of Jerry, the mouse, is disturbed
by a wild cat party, so he
Fair. Patrons who like to sing or hum
team; monkey shines to Jerry
popular tunes wlU enjoy these western melodies.
The King's Men, a popular quartet,
tries to
break it up. He Inflicts various kinds of punishment
on the celebrators, such as slamming Chisholm Trail," "Red River Valley" and
sing along with the moviegoers for "The Old
the piano hd down on the player's fingers, "Sweetly Sings the Donkey." The words nations meet; crazy fashions;
but finally gets run out. Jerry then phones are accompanied by himiorous cartoons. Portuguese doctor gets Nobel prize;
the mistress to come home. As he is settling
signs; golden gloves; women wrestling.
down for sleep, she puts on a noisy jazz
record, m
South of Santa Fe
Warner Pathe News, No. 48:
Technicolor.
Unlv.-lnt'l (Musical Western) 29 Mlns.
Very Good. Another in the Tex Williams
A Wee Bit of Scotland series with "Smokey" Rogers, "Deuce" Spriggens
and Donna Martell with music, romance
MGM (FltzPatrick Travel(alk) 10 Mins.
and plenty of the shootin', tootin' western
Good. Some remarkably beautiful outdoor
type action. Buck Williams (WiUlam Tannen)
organizes a band of free rangers to cap-
scenery features this Technicolor film—scenes
ture an outlaw and his gang. He is about to
be hanged when he escapes. Three songs,
"When the Job's Well Done," "Green Fields
Far Away" and "So Long, Pal," are included.
This Is the United Nations
UN Film Distribution
Flying Cups and Saucers
(Screen Magazine No. 1)
15 Mlns.
20th-Foz (Terrytoon) 7 Mins.
Good. E^veryone interested in the story behmd
the newspaper headlines of today's
Good. An amu.sing Technicolor cartoon
which deals with the recent headlines about events should find this a first-rate and informative
short. The subjects covered are hams beats Jimmy Bratton.
buked;
flying saucers. A dozing dog hears a radio
bulletin about this strange manifestation and "General Assembly Acts to Make Jerusalem
runs out of the house Just as a large cup an International Area," "Twenty-Five Weatherships
Promote Safety at Sea," "The Na-
and saucer lands on a lake near the house.
Two cats emerge and announce that they tions Fight Tuberculosis" and "East and
are from the moon and are looking for mice. West Unite in Vote Aid to Underdeveloped
The dog helps the cats find the mice while Countries." The UN Film Distribution unit
the desperate ftnimau scurry
of water, hills and blooming heather. The
cities of Berth and Inverness are shown, the
famous Loch Ness without its much publicized
monster and the Saint Andrews golf club
course. Every golfer will want to see the
course.
is
at 1500 Broadway, New York City.
Hiss found guilty
of perjury; midwest hit by floods; Cypress
votes to join Greece; plane rides piggy back;
warrior fete in Swaziland; science—sun spots;
sports—sled dog racing, speed skating.
News of the Day, No. 242: Hiss convicted
of perjury In spy trial; science reveals rain
of fire on sun; Free Indonesia hails president;
Truman turns cartoonist; Barkley
pleads cause of Israel; Canada's ski paradise;
prize pooches.
Reds rejected in
the Uttle animal
corner; Alger Hiss found guilty of
perjury; ski doings; Indonesia hails its president.
U.S. and Canada
hit by freak weather; Indonesia celebrates
independence; Hiss found guilty; flying
mockup; sports—dog show in Miami, ski
meet.
Warner Pathe News, No. 47: Hiss trial;
sun explosions; animals
snow dogs in Switzerland, twin foals born
in California, dog show in Miami; diaper
fashions; ski meets.
•
Greece asks return
of 1,000 children kidnapped by Reds; helicopter
corrals raiding elk herds in Washington;
Paul Mantz flies over U.S. in five hours;
buffoonery reigns as carnival time begins;
Europe—women's tennis, novel planes and
novel blowballs.
Midwinter spring
in New York and Washington; carnival time
overseas; "Mighty Mo" still stuck; Hapsburg
duke weds a princess; Roman animals
blessed; DiMaggio signs for $100,000; curling
de lu.xe; hair hunting.
Paramount News, No. 46: Celebration in
Algeria; brotlierhood tlarough Stalin; new
(Lewis); baseball—sign
(ings) of spring; exclusive—first
time in a newsreel—X-ray motion pictures.
Universal News, No. 321: Commonwealth
rabbit raising;
DiMaggio
Court news
Carol Paight-, Judith Coplon, Alger Hiss;
Punch and Judy show; sports—DiMaggio,
Jackie Robinson, 3-year-old skater, Czech
,
skater; great American city—New Orleans.
All American News, No. 380: New youth
center opened in Topeka, Kas.; native of
West Africa is student at Brooklyn college;
Carver memorial hospital in Chattanooga,
Tenn., adds needed nurses; new wrestling fad
called "ring baU" is demonstrated in Chicago;
Mrs. Fehce Schwartz receives award
from Mademoiselle magazine; delegation
asks Truman for rights law.
Telenews Digest, No. 4A: Alger Hiss convicted;
Indonesia—wild welcome for Soekarno;
Korea—Jessup inspects Red border;
Finland—presidential election; Bulgaria re-
Cartoonist Truman; sports—Ike Wil-
Telenews Digest, No. 4B: Detroit—Chrysler
strike; Ward reports on China; Yugoslavia
Russians on trial; Judith Coplon trial; Paris
—French gangsters; fire in Mexico City;
Dutch soldiers return from Indonesia; canasta
experts compete in New York; DiMaggio
signs with Yankees; ice bathers in Olso,
Norway.
14 BOXOFFICE BookinGuido : : February 4, 1950

Opinions on Current Productions; Expioitips for Selling to the Public
FEATURE REVIEWS
(FOR STORY SYNOPSIS ON EACH PICTURE, SEE REVERSE SIDE)
Key to the City
F
'"""'
MGM (18) 101 Minutes Rel. Feb. 24, 'SO
To begin with, there was a refreshingly original, laughladen
screenplay—as full of nev^ twists as a pretzel factory
and with as many switches as a railroad yard. To translate
i!, selected was a hand-picked star-encrusted cast, the marquee
drawing power of which would be enough to assure
the film's success, even if it appeared in a less meritorious
photoplay. And to make sure that the limitless possibilities
of yuch combination of literary and thespian opulence were
completely drained, they were entrusted to the expert direction
of George Sidney. Only one result was possible: a
screamingly funny, fast-moving funfest which exhausts the
gamut of comedy, from the slightly naughty sophisticated
to the rough-and-iumble slapstick. Further to make sure that
ceiling grosses are the picture's lot, there are its numerous
exploitation angles, principally its title, made to order for
tieups, and its cast.
Clark Gable, Loretta Young, Marilyn Maxwell, Frank Morgan,
James Gleason, Lewis Stone, Raymond Walburn.
Nancy Goes to Rio
F '=°r,:.i::,:r''
MGM (19) 99 Minutes Rel. Mar. 10, 'SO
Jane Powell's youthful charm and golden voice lend to this
handsomely accoutred entry the same widespread appeal
tnat made her preceding starring subjects ("Three Daring
Daughters" and "A Date With Judy") such outstanding successes
as concerns both critical acclaim and profits. It's a
praiseworthy job of picturemaking on all counts, with emphasis
on a deft writing job, skilled direction by Robert Z.
Leonard, masterful productional handling by Joe Pasternak,
glowing Technicolor photography and a topflight supporting
cast. These ingredients are served up with a garnish of
Spanish sauce, as indicated by the title, and earmark the
feature as one which should attract audiences of all ages
in abundant quantity, and send them away thoroughly satisfied
v,-ith the wholesome entertainment it supplies. There are
nine skillfully interpolated song numbers, several of which
look to be of hit parade caliber.
lane Powell, Ann Sothern, Barry Sullivan, Carmen Miranda,
Louis Calhem, Scotty Beckett, Fortunio Bononova.
Mule Train F ^"'""
Columbia (248) 70 Minutes Rel. Feb. 22, '50
Using another popular song for title and theme. Gene
Autry's selection for this picture allows for considerable
action and drama. His rendition of the growing jukebox classic
is typical and stirring and fits into the story in fairly plausible
fashion. Poi Buttram is a comedy foil, something new in
Gene's pictures; should but be pleasing who want
to fans
to keep Gene playing his own role straight. The woman
i.n the case. Sheila Fiyan, looks like a romantic angle at first
but ends up with handcuffs, so you can hardly call her a
love interest. With action a-plenty, it should not be hard for
.he exhibitor to fill his house if a following has been built
up and exploitation angles are used. Clippity-clop routines
leave plenty for Champion to do, desert scenes are sharp
and convincing, fights and gunplay conform to accepted
screen patterns. An assembly-line job cut to the trade's
measure. John English directed.
Gene Autry, Pat Buttram, Sheila Ryan. Robert Livingston,
Frcnk Jaquet, Vince Bamett, Syd Saylor.
Joe Palooka Meets Humphrey F Comedy
Monogram (4911) 65 Minutes Rel. Ian. 28, 'SO
Herein a sharp about-face is made in the series stemming
from Ham Fisher's comic strip about the fabulous purveyor
of legalized mayhem. Where heretofore Palooka pictures
were on the semiserious, dramatic side—with only a garnishment
of comedy—this one goes all-out lor laughs and resorts
to a wide range of devices in its long reach for humor. The
principal pass for guffaws is the introduction of a new character,
"Humphrey," who in looks and actions adheres rather
closely to the cartoon original. Despite which accent, it is
Leon Errol who commits grand larceny for the film's only
funny sequences, and he does it by recreating his well-known
British lord routine. Juvenile audiences will go for the picture
in a big way but adults who enjoyed former Palooka
entries for their action may be disappointed. Directed by
Jean Yarbrough.
Leon Errol, loo Eirkwood, Robert Coogan, Jerome Cowan,
Joe Besser, Don McGuire. Pamela Bloke.
1114 bo:
°-M
Mother Didn't Tell Me
20th-Fox (006) 88 Minutes
p
Comedy
Rel. March 'SO
A rollicking domestic comedy based on the domestic interruptions
suffered by a doctors spirited wife who thinks
she can share his professional interests and at the same
time prevent his personal interest from wandering in the
direction of a charming female medic who shows up as his
assistant. A mother-in-law in the background rounds off the
three points of what might have become a triangle. The story
has strong woman appeal and plenty of chuckles for the male
portion oi the audience. The title is intriguing for exploitation
purposes and the cast has enough names for strong
drawing power in the advertising. Dorothy McGuire and
William Lundigan, in the principal roles, carry the story along
at a rapid pace. Both are charming. June Havoc is the
tfrreat to domestic happiness. Claude Binyon directed and
Fred Kohlmar was the producer.
Dorothy McGuire, William Ltmdigon. June Havoc, Gary Merrill,
Jessie Royce Landis, Joyce MacEenzie.
Chain Lightning
F
Aviation
Warner Bros. (905)
94 Minutes
Drama
Rel. Feb. 25, '50
Beamed right for the boxoffice jackpot is the first hunk of
celluloid to utilize as its story line the almost incredible
strides made by the aviation industry in the postwar era in
developing faster-than-sound jet-propelled aircraft. A ruggedly
exciting and suspenseful entry it is, for the most part;
leplete v/ith engrossing and obviously authentic technical
touches which, although they have an almost Buck Rogerish
aura, hinge on fact. Boasting also some spectacular aerial
photography and the marquee lure of Humphrey Bogort, the
project appears made lo order for action fans of all ages,
with emphasis on- the juveniles. Such highly exploitable
assets, properly merchandised,^easily outweigh a somewhat
stilted subplot involving •' -;neievitable romantic triangle,
and v,rhich accomplishes — lit'-'except to periodically slow
down the film's otherwisf^cls blis-ng pace. IJirected by Stuart
''^'
Heisler.
liumplirey Bogart, Eleanor Parker, Raymond Masaey, Richard
V/hori, James Brown, Roy Roberts, Morris Ankrum.
!!!!_ BeiJe of Old Mexico F
February 4, 1950
Comedy Witli Music
(Trucoior)
Republic (4906)
70 Minutes ReL
One v/ould need a calculating machine accurately to repoit
how many times this yarn has been told in fiction, on
stage, screen and radio—and seldom before has it been presented
less convincingly and entertainingly. There is nothing
in the scripting, delineation and direction that even comes
close lo circumventing the multitudinous and moss-covered
cliches with which the plot is laden per se. The picture's only
asset—and, incidentally, its best approach to exploitation—is
in t.he colorful backgrounds and music of its early sequences,
v/hich are uniolded in Mexico; and in the fact that the offering
is in Trucolor. Naturally the picture is earmarked as a
supporting feature and, fortunately, its length makes it
flexible for such bookings, but it will add little to the luster
or appeal of the dualers where it is so used. Directed by
R. G. Springsteen.
Estelita Rodriguez, Robert Rockwell, Dorothy Patrick, Florence
Bates, Dove Willock, Gordon Jones, Thurston Hall.
Sunshine Follows Rain
Scandia Films
100 Minutes ReL
Well acted and scientifically magnificent, this Swedishlanguage
feature is best suited to art houses where the two
stars, Alf Kjellin and Mai Zetterling, became well known
through their performances in "Torment." In the three years
since that outstanding film, Kjellin was renamed Christopher
Kent and appeared in "Madame Bovary" in Hollywood while
Miss Zetterling has played in "Quartet," "Frieda" and other
notable British pictures. Mention these facts in exploiting
the film. Except in neighborhoods where Scandinavians
predominate, the story will seem too arty and slow-moving
lor general audiences. The photography of the Swedish hills,
woodlands and rapid streams is frequently breathtakingly
beau;iJul and the violin music and folk dancec aie gay and
charming. Kjellin is ideally cast as the handsome, moody
gypsy hero. Gustav Edgren directed. Scandia Films is at
220 West 42nd St., New York City.
Mai Zetterling, Alf Ejellin (Christopher Eent), Sten Lindgren.
UU Palme, Anna Lindahl, Hugo Hasslo, Torston Bergstrom.
F
1113

. . Temperatures
FEATURE REVIEWS Story Synopsis; Adlines for Newspaper and Programs
THE STORY: "Mother Didnt Tell Me"
Mother didn't have to tell this girl. She visited a doctor's
office ;o have a cold treated and immediately decided the
doctor would fill the void in her life. Patients' frequent calls
interrupt a rapidly flowering romance and the doctor's mother
silently disapproves. A grateful patient provides a house for
lions ensue. About the time these seem on the road to solution
the doctor takes on a young woman doctor, who had *llfc
formerly been his technician, as his assistant. The wife '
threatens to move out and does, but the mother-in-law reverses
her attitude and gets rid of the newcomer.
CATCKUNES:
Mo;her Didn't Tell Her, But She Knew— . . . Ever See a
Psychiatrist Go to Work on a Doctor's Lonely Wife? Weowl
... He Feels Her Pulse . Go Up and Down
. . . You'll Laugh.

I
: Acme,
DRIVE-IN
I
I Two
,
RATES: 10c per word, m inimum $1.00, cash with copy. Four insertions for price of three.
CLOSING DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy and answers to
• Box Numbers to BOXOFFICE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 1, Mo. •
HELP WANTED
I
Theatre managers, assistant managers and drive-
Ui managers wanted. Permanent positions In New
York-New Jersey area: salary open. Slate experience,
ace. references and ai-allabiiity. Write Box
112. Boxorrice. 9 Rockefeller Plaza, New York
City.
Excellent position for outstanding theatre ejeciiihe
with top flight .Midwest circuit. Boxofflce,
3731.
Wanted: Experienced manager: county seat of
l.SOn: up-to-date theatre: location, midwest;
Include photo, qualifications, salary expected. Boxoftice.
37:52.
Wanted: Manager for neighborhood theatre. Top
salary and bonus. Ideal working conditions. Write
references, details, etc., care 0. Brotman, Avaloe
Tlioatre. 2807 VV. Ditersey Ave.. Chicago.
Need extra cash? Manager, projectionists—day
time, sell yotir neighborhood merchants advertising
gifts, calendars, pencils, matches, etc. Aver
age order earns $25. Free samples. KIncole. 8916
Lin»(io(l. IHtroit. Mieh.
POSITIONS WANTED
Manajer or assistant m.anager, 26, married, no
drilter, sober, experienced in large circuit, wants
permanent position in small house or circuit.
Wife also available. Boxoffice. 3740.
Manaoer, now employed, desires change. A-1
refeniices. Prefer the CaroUnas or Virginia. .Address
Box 414, Hamlet, N. C.
A-1 projectionist; repairs, signs, displays. Sin.
le. Foster. 1,S24 Welton St., Denver, Colo.
Independent buyer and booker for State of Iowa,
orr.-rt film rental guaranteed. Boxoffice, 3754.
Manaoer, experienced in all phases of operations,
promotion, exploitation. Married, family, age 31.
Present position inadequate for future. Stage as
well screen. Best references. Go anywhere.
.-is
Boxofflce, 3756.
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—USED
Looks new, n|„.r:ites new. But it's rebuilt!
the S.O.S, way. Holmes Educators, $550:
$795; Simplex SP or Standard,
.Ml dual equipments with 2,000' magazines,
-. amplifier, speaker, etc. Available on time
j.iyr.ipiiis Dcpt C. S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp..
'K W. 52nd St., New York 19.
Buy of the Year! Like new pair rear shutter
ni'I'-x machines, complete, ready to Install, eon-
'rn mechanisms, bases, magazines, lamphouses,
!iii>rs. lenses and sound system. First $1,150.
'Ifi''ld Theatre. Medfield, Mass.
Ihomas Ave.. Fresno. Calif.
:;i.' Super-lite lenses, adjustable from 5H to
'tu~ Write Boxoffice, 3753.
GENERAL EQUIPMENT—NEW
e-t-c-h your dollars -it S.O.S. Here's v.ilue
liii.iry: Rectifier bulbs, 15 amp., $4.95:
$2.95: carbon savers, 77c: Snapllte II
lenses, $75 (liberal tradelns) ; coin chang-
119.50: intercom telephones, $9.95 pair;
lilckups. $1.75: marquee letters, 35c up:
-1 stage settings. $277.50; wall and celling
fixtures, i5% off. (Send for brochure).
I'. S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp., 602 52nd
« Y'ork 19.
t.v too? Yesireel With cooperation of manure
S.O.S. has assembled Latest booth eqiilpf'lr
theatres, $2,950: drlve-Ins, $3,950:
SO'^t of market price! Time deals and
K
too! Dent. C, S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp.,
"• 52nd St., New York 19.
ew complete equipment for outdoor and Indoor
Ires. Queen Feature Service, Inc., Bimlng-
THEATRE EQUIPMENT THEATRES WANTED
Drive-ins, order now, open early. Complete
Dual 35mm outfits from $1,595: Dual 16mm
Amproarcs, $1,795: No. 14 underground cable,
$55.45 M (quantity discounts) marquee letters,
Write for details
35e up. Time deals Invited.
and drive-ln catalog (now in prcpar,ition). Dcpt.
C, S..O.S. Cinema Supply Corp., 602 W. 52nd
St.. New York 19.
Speaker stands fabricated to specification in
our own pKont. Immediate any quantity.
delivery,
Wire, write or phone. Long Distance
1024
or THatcher 9243. Sonken-Oal.amb8 Corp., Second
and Iilvervie%v. Kansas City 18, Kas.
Drive-in owners, builders, showmen; Install kiddle
rides. Profit making business. We build
Kiddie trains, airplane rides, car rides, ferrls
wheel.s, etc. .Ml solid and strong, at surprisingly
reasonable prices. All work guaranteed. For details,
drop a line to Kiddieland Kontraotnrs. P. 0.
Box 182. L,afayette, La.
STUDIO AND PRODUCTION
EQUIPMENT
Wanted to manage or would lease theatre Id
any location 1,500 population or over. E.xperienccd.
New Bridgamatic Automatic Processors. $1,595;
confidential. Boxofflce, 3726.
new Cine Balowstar iy„" n.3 lenses, $199: Syn
chronous 35mm Dubbing Projectors, $695; new
Projectionist, 26 years experience, all repairs,
larriod. sober. Boxofflce, 3734.
Cinevolce 16mm Single System Sound Camera,
$695: Twin turret Byemo, 6 motor,
fast lenses, Projectionist, experienced, reliable and sober,
with good wants
etc., $1,095: 35mm recorders, from $495; new
references, position in Florida
with small or large Now
Auricon 33-Minute Camera, $1,665. Send for
theatre. operating in
catalog Sturelab. Dept. C. S.O.S. Cinema Supply
Wisconsin, but available. Bosoffice, 3736.
Corp., 602 W. 52nd St., New Y'ork 19.
Projectionist: 10 years experience on
and other makes of equipment.
Simple!
Married, age 25 Filmcraft studio liquidation sale—Mole Richardson
No children. Wish city in mlddlewest with furnished
Solarspots. Wonderful shape, including
bulb, barndoors, 5KW
apartment or house. Salary $45 to $50
diffusers, rolling stand.
2KW Juniors, Seniors. $189.50; $104.50:
weekly. No drunkard: able to go to work Feb
,lunlors.
1, 1950. Boxoffice, 3737
less stands, $87.50; hundreds other lights, dimmers,
cables, plugs, etc. Complete background
Experienced theatre and concession man wants
to concessions small circuit. Boxoffice. 3739. process projection outfit. Including 4 Selsyn motors,
sound playback, lenses, screen, etc., worth
$15,000. rebuilt, $4,995: MB Microphone Boom,
with dolly, $395. Send for BulTetln Filmcraft,
Dept. C, S.O.S. Cinema Supply Corp, 602 \V.
52nd St., New York 19.
EQUIPMENT WANTED
Two sets cood Strong wtUity, .Iimior or Baby
lamps, rectifiers; set 35 Holmes. A 4 T, Wickes,
Will swap 1946 Ford Pickup and pair Holmes
on booth equipment. Want hl-Iamp. Arkansas
Equipment Co., SuH>hur Springs, Ark.
Complete drive-in booth, used (prefer Strong
Mogul lamps). No iiink. Write, wire, call Montana
Theatre Equipment, Inc., Box 1000. phone
33, Sunburst, Mont.
BUSINESS STIMULATORS
Comic books again available as premiums, giveaways
at your Wddy shosvs. 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.
Sell your theatre privately. Confidential corres[iondence
invited. Leak Theatre Sales, 3422
Klnmore, Dallas. 1109 Orchardlane. Des Moines,
$10,000 down tor small town Idaho, Oregon,
northern California. Phelps, 429 East Carter,
Pocatello,
Idaho.
Wanted to lease or buy interest in theatre,
Missouri or adjoining states. Boxoffice. 3746.
Wanted to Buy: Small town theatre in Midwest
r Colorado. Confidential. Bosoffice, 3748.
Want to lease theatres in Washington, Oregon,
Idaho. .Montana. Kush full particulars to Boxofflce,
3750.
Individual w.ints theatre Texas town. 1,500 or
more. No broker, no publicity. Cash. Replies
confidential. Boxofflce, 3752.
•
the preview room, rebuilt n,avy DeVry pro-
Suckers are scarce. Buy or sell theatres right.
Bingo die-cut cards, two colors, 75 or 100 numbers,
^. $550 pair, reconditioned nary DeVry
Better business. Contact Walter Jackson, Broker,
$3 per M. Premium Products, 354 W. 44th
''Ts. $05. Holmes Educators, pair, com-
Mo.
(3jillicothe,
St.. New York 18.
like new, $600. Midstate Theatre Supply.
TJiealre and drive-in amplifier units complete.
All sires. 8 to 1,000 watts. DAR Electronics,
Barkuv.
Ky.
BOXOFFICE : : February 4, 1950
Giveaway everything now, dlnncrware to cars!
Merchant advertising tie-up. No cost to theatre.
Interstate Theatre Service, 1115 East Armour,
K. C, Mo
Dishes are back! Beautiful 44 -piece set. Average
cost 10c piece. .Arkansas Equipment Co..
Sulphur Springs, Ark.
Comic books proven the most successful method
of -ittracting the "small fry" to their Saturday
matinees. Always large variety and latest popular
titles. Sold on all newsstands at 10c: $22.50
per 1.000. P.O.B. New York City. Dumont S.iles,
15 Park Row. New York Citv.
Dartaway: Two sensational new theatre gami
f skill. Fill those empty seats. Don't waitstart
now. Over 200 theatres now using our game
.\o theatre too big or too small. Write or wh
Dartaway Enterprises. Inc. Shawnee. Kas.
SIGNS
Easy Way to Paint Signs. Use letter patterns.
Avoid sloppy work and wasted time. No experience
needed for expert work. Write for free sampies.
John Rahn, B-1329, Central Ave.. Chicago
51. III.
Theatres Wanted—Arkans.as, Mississippi, Tennessee,
Missouri, Louisiana and Alabama. you If
sell, want to we have prospects. Haase-Shea,
Theatre Brokers. McCall Bldg.. Memphis, Tenn.
Do you have a good Drive-In Tlieatre location
with permit to build? Young man with extensive
drlve-ln theatre background desires active partnership.
Will back up my drive-in theatre experience
with cash investment of $30,000 to $40,000.
Prefer cast coast state. Write Boxoffice, 3755.
THEATRES FOR SALE
Theatres For Sale: Selected listings In Oregon
for and Washington now available. Write list.
Theatre Exchange Co., Fine Arts Bldg., Portland,
Ore.
Build double parking drive-in theatres under
franchise Patent No. 2,102,718, reissue No.
22,756 and improvements, patent pending, lip
to 30 per cent more seating capacity with little
additional cost. Louis Josserand, architect, 3908
S. Main St., Houston, Tec.
Pacific northwest theatres for sale. Write Theatre
Sales Co., 4229 NE Broadway, Portland, Ore.
Describe to Walter Jackson, Broker, Chllllcothe.
Mo., theatre you want to buy or sell.
For Sale: One of western Virginia's finest drivein
theatres: 400-car capacity. lUness reaaon for
desire to sell. Reply to owner, Boxoffice, 3720
$35,000 down handles both theatres, growing
Texas county seat, over 4,000. Absentee owner*
shj|i showing good profit. Investigate thoroughly,
please. Arthur Leak. Worthwhile Theatres, 3422
Klnmore. Dallas. Others.
$14,000 down. Dairy town near Tulsa, 3,500.
Worth much more. Personally operated. Arthur
Leak, Theatres Exclusively, 3422 Klnmore, Dallas.
Many others.
For Sale: Starlight Drive-In Theatre, Owensboro,
Ky. 700 cars, latest Simplex equipment. Andy
Anderson. Hartford, Ky.
Fully equipped theatre in city of 180,000. Only
house in town with line of girls and vaudeville.
Owner's sickness forces sale. Write or wire
Theatre Owner. 1818 W. Riverside, Spokane, Wash.
Theatre, year old. Showing good return. Excellent
equipment and seats. Big pay roll town in
Frazer valley. Seats 420. Boxofflce, 3723.
$10,500 down. Only tlieatre adjoining towns
totaling 2.800. Good brick buiUing Included.
Owner showed $245 weekly profit last month.
Serious illness. Artiuir Leak, Theatre Sales, 3422
Kinmore, DalKas. >Lini' others.
Theatre building, with 3 apartments, for sale.
Good investment. Located Iowa. $20,000 down,
385 seats; equipment, building good condition.
New marquee. Boxoffice, 3727.
320-seat grind house, downtown Tulsa (Strand).
Will sell for half price due to other business;
3-year lease with 5-year option. Ideal for roadshows,
etc. Don't waste my time with unnecessary
It correspondence. If interested, look over and
V. F. S. contact me. Hosier. 1600 May Aic
Oklahoma City. Day phone 6-1597, nights 9-8354.
For Sale: Chicago neighborhood modern theatre,
fully erpiipped, 750 seats. Must liquidate interest.
Will take half cash and terms for balance.
Write for particulars. Boxofflce. 624 S. Mlchlg.an
Ave.. Chicago 5, lU.
theatres. Town near Waco, Tex.as. Both
brick buildings Included. Present owner shows
$200 weekly profits. All cushion seats. Late
model equipment. $38,500, half Aovm. "Joe"
Joseph, 8611 Beauregard Drive, phone E6-6289,
|
Dallas, Tex. I
cuflRine Houst
THEATRES FOR SALE (Cont'd)
Notice, mailing list customers of "Joe" Joseph:
Following theatres sold since Jan. 1, 1950. Ple:ise
destroy all informtition. Quinlan, Texas: Seago-
\llle, Texas, and Olton, Texas. Must have more
listings for immediate disposition, "Joe" Joseph,
.son Beauregard, Dallas, Te.\.
For sale, at Victoria, Ktis., 414-seat house,
built in 1946. Sell everything, building and
equipment, for $22,000 cash, no terms. Write
for particulars: W. J. Braun. Victoria, Kas.
Ten-year lease. Ail-day grind theatre in Illinois,
50,000 population. $200 monthly rental includes
apartment. $15,400 for lease and equipment.
Air conditioned. Owner retiring. Boxoffice, 3741,
700-car drive-in theatre, by owner, with 111
health. .Midwest city of 300.000 population, surrounded
by good pay rolls. Priced reasonable.
.Shown by appointment. State's choice location,
Boxofflce, 3742.
Texas, 319 seats, town 1,200. Simplex, first
class setup: $7,500 down. Boxoffice, 3757.
Theatre, South Jersey, 436 seats: solid brick,
latest Simplex sound, Brenkert projectors; oil
burner, new seats, new fronts, new carpets. Population
7,500: $10,000 for 10-ycar lease. Solid
proposition. Boxoffice, 3751.
Must sell, on account of 111 health, theatre in
small growing town; $50,000 invested. Building
only 2 years old. New Motlograph equipment, air
conditioned. Ideal seats. Will sell at great loss
for quick s.cle. Address Albert Heffcran, Marnc,
Mich., the owner. Please dn not write unless in
the market for a theatre.
THEATRES FOR RENT
For-Rent: SOO-seat theatre in city near Boston,
Mass. Ready fur immediate occupancy. Closed because
of Illness and death of owner. Best location.
Contact Att'y J. Morton Rosenblum, 1008
Elm St., Manchester, N. H.
POPCORN SUPPLIES
Attractively printed popcorn cartons for sale.
10c size, $6.25 M; 25c .size, $16.00 M. Fabian
Kontnej'. 609 N. Ashland, Green Bay, Wis.
Pop-Mor, the popcorn that is tested for taste.
Costs less to pop the best. Complete line of popcorn
supplies. Write for our free delivery service
to theatres. Whitley Popcorn Co., Trenton, Mo,
Blevins' Pops-Rite Box with Wm. A. Rogers
"Box-Top" Silverware Premium offer Is booming
popcorn sales! Ble\ins Popcorn Co., Popcorn
Villase, Nashville, Tenn.
Pre-Popped Corn. Jax-Pop, the nutritious popcorn,
425 East Bay St., Jacksonville, Fla,
POPCORN MACHINES
Rebuilt Popcorn M.achines for sale. Fully guaranteed.
Price from $100. Consolidated Confections.
1314 S. Wabash, Chicago 5, LI.
Burch. JIanley, Cretors, Advance, all electric
french fry types. 50 Hollywood type, theatre
special electric poppers from $250. Karmelkom
Equipment, 120 S. H-ilsted, Chicago 6, 111.
Free SS-page 1949 catalog of Award-Winning
Popcorn and Concession Equipment and Supplies.
Blevins Popcorn Co., Popcorn Village, Nashville,
Tenn.
AIR CONDITIONING
Heavy duty blowers, ball-bearing equipped,
15,000 elm 50,000 cfm. Ah- w.-ishers, all
t

'^
^smi
New Futura Lens Mount
New Spray-0-Matic Lubrication
New 24-Tooth Sprockets
New Full Vision Observation Window
New Film Gate and Trap Assembly
New Micromatic Screens cope
New Lower Starting Load
New Lower Running Load
New Single-Unit Conical Shutter
and scores of ofher exclusive new
years-ahead features . . . novy!!
X-L
PROJECTOR
"The Projector That Unns Like a Song'
MANUFACTURED BY INTERNATIONAL PROJECTOR CORP., BLOOMFIELD, N. J. • DISTRIBUTED BY NATIONAL THEATRE SUPPLY