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Ascap Decree Is Signed; 

Exhibitor Fee Prohibited 

'industry Quicl( to Answer 

Senator's Attack on Films 

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COVER STORt ^ following through 

on 20th Century Fox Merchondiiing Conference 

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE EDITION 

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(Advertisement)

— 

Âe Tic^ of^ TTMcon T^cctm^ Z/iz/dS^ 

THE NATIONAL FILM WEEKLY 

Published in Nine Sectional Editions 

BEN SHLYEN 

Editor-in-Chief and Publisher 

AMES M. JERAULD Editor 

•lATHAN COHEN-.^.Executive Editor 

ESSE SHLYEN Managing Editor 

VAN SPEAR Western Editor 

INDUSTRY LASHED IN SENATE; 

THREATENED WITH LICENSING 

Senator Johnson, in Bitter 

Attack, Proposes Drastic 

Regulatory Legislation 

WASHINGTON—Proposing what the 

Motion Picture Ass'n of America termed 

"police state control" over the motion picture 

industry. Senator Edwin C. Johnson. 

Colorado Democrat, raked the film industry 

over the coals for conduct offensive to 

society. The Bergman-Rossellini alliance, 

the Rita Hayworth affair, the RKO advertising 

of "Stromboli" and the failure of 

the MPAA to curb the exploitation of the 

film were Johnson's particular targets. 

He promised to begin hearings April 15 

on a bill to requii-e the licensing of actors, 

producers and other talent, with special 

permits for film distribution. Stiff penalties 

would be provided for violation of 

the licensing requirements, with exhibitors 

liable for fines up to $1,000 per showing 

for screening films not approved by 

the Commerce department. 

ANTICIPATES AX ANSWER 

Anticipating the MPAA comment on his 

bill. Johnson said, "let's not confuse the freedom 

to commercialize immorality and lewdness 

with freedom of art." 

Although Johnson, as chairman of the 

powerful Interstate Commerce Committee, is 

in a strategic spot to push his bill, the prospect 

for action on it was not regarded seriously. 

It was believed far from certain that 

the measure would even reach the hearing 

stage, although Johnson is not one easily 

to be dissuaded. 

He is also an influential member of the 

senate finance committee, and the Council of 

Motion Picture Organizations tax chairman 

A. F. Myers said he is alarmed lest his 

blast chill industry prospects for favorable 

admissions tax action in the senate. 

Apart from that, Myers adopted an "Itold-you-so" 

attitude. He termed the Johnson 

proposal in essence an extension of the 

abortive Finneran plan, which Allied has advanced 

as a vehicle for stricter industry selfregulation. 

NO SURPRISE TO MYERS 

"I regret that AUied's constant warnings 

for two years have been ignored, with this 

re-sult," Myers said. "Senator Johnson's 

action should occasion no surprise, even 

though unheralded and unexpected. It was 

inevitable." 

Johnson's speech was full of name-calling 

such as has rarely been heard on the senate 

floor, as he told the world what he thinks 

of Rossellini, Bergman and Hajnvorth. The 

latter two he termed "Hollywood's two current 

apostles of degradation." He was especially 

indignant because the April issue of 

Pageant lists them, along with Mrs. Roosevelt, 

Mrs. Ti-uman, Sister Kenny, Senator 

Smith, Representative Helen Douglas, P*rincess 

Elizabeth. Emily Post. Helen Keller. Eve 

Curie and Kate Smith as "The most powerful 

women in America." 

He observed also that prior to her fall 

Hollywood Answers: 

The Motion Picture Industry Council, 

public relations representative of 

the film capital, issued the following 

statement on Senator Johnson's attack 

under the signature of Dore 

Schary, MGM production executive 

and chairman of the MPIC public relations 

committee, and Roy Brewer, 

the council chairman: 

No one can question the right or the 

justice of any American citizen to attack 

the conduct of any public figure, 

either in the theatre, government or business 

world. 

However, the MPIC, representing the 

entire working community of Hollywood, 

questions the ill-considered and unreasonable 

attack that Senator Johnson has 

launched upon the entire motion picture 

industry -because of the well-publicized 

conduct of a few individuals. The senator, 

in his attack, overlooks the reputation 

and the efforts of thousands of respectable 

Hollywood people who work hard 

and diligently and have always been of 

service to their craft and their country. 

He gratuitously attempts to tar an entire 

industry that has contributed much to 

the entertainment, the culture and the 

standard of living in America. 

In the past, unfortunately, there have 

been congressmen and senators who have 

brought discredit and shame to the highest 

body of government in the world, but 

it would be reckless to attack the Congress 

for the actions of a few. 

The senator's proposed bill would be a 

violation of deep and well-rooted American 

principles and would be the first 

step toward totalitarianism. It would be 

not only a stricture on motion pictures 

but. most important, a slap and insult 

to the conscience and conduct of the 

American people, who have been always 

well qualified to determine right from 

wrong. 

The senator has succeeded in making 

a headline, but we believe he has made 

a serious error in judgment and appraisal. 

from grace Miss Bergman "was by very long 

odds my own favorite actress of all time." 

The senator advised that "if a movie queen 

insists upon a private life, let her first divorce 

herself from the movies. When she 

feels the urge to go upon an immoral binge, 

as a few of them do, she should have respect 

enough for her chosen profession to 

retire from it and forever remain in retirement. 

That is not asking too much." 

When Will Hays was head of MPAA, Johnson 

told reporters, he would have stepped 

into a situation such as that which developed 

in connection with "Stromboli." But Eric 

Johnston "sat back and complacently let the 

storm of protest wear itself out. 

"He invited this. He has been a terrible 

failure as head of the Motion Picture Ass'n. 

"At least he could have held up the showing 

of 'Stromboli' for a time, perhaps a year, 

to indicate his respect for the protests voiced 

by the people, but he didn't lift a finger." 

He challenged Johnston's rights to permit 

the screening in America of films produced 

by persons "who themselves are barred from 

setting foot on American soil on the grounds 

of moral turpitude." 

Later in his speech he lauded motion pictures 

as, with baseball, the favorite American 

pastimes. Most things about the industry. 

and most people connected with it, he said, 

"are good, wholesome people." But the baseball 

czar has several times had to take vigorous 

action to keep baseball clean in the eye 

of the public. 

SLAPS AT INDUSTRY CHIEFS 

"Unfortunately, the motion picture czar is 

merely the front for the money changers of 

his association. With one eye on the cash 

register and the other constantly winking at 

evil, he has permitted scandal to pile up on 

scandal until the movies, a powerful influence 

for wholesome life, has lost the confidence 

of the people. It breeds contempt for 

society's most precious conventions, and contributes 

greatly to juvenile delinquency and 

crime generally." 

With reference to the above charge. MPAA 

retorted that Senator Johnson, in using the 

word "money changers" was "reminiscent 

of a hateful ideology that mUlions of Americans 

fought to destroy." 

If by some means decency and common 

sense can be returned to control in Hollywood, 

even as a result of the "degradation 

associated with 'StromboU.' Ingrid Bergman 

will not have destroyed her career for 

naught." said Johnson. "Out of her ashes 

may come a decent Hollywood." 

Such a statement "behttles Hollywood." 

MPAA shot back. "Hollywood doesn't need a 

certificate of character from anyone." 

SETS UP SPECIAL DIVISION 

Johnson's bill would set up a special division 

within the Commerce department, to 

be supported by fees from the film industry. 

Licenses would be issued for actors and 

actresses for one dollar each, with no one 

eligible "who has been finally adjudged 

guilty by any court of competent jurisdiction 

of a crime involving moral turpitude, or 

who admits committing acts constituting the 

essential elements of a crime involving moral 

turpitude." 

The same eligibility standard would apply 

to applicants for a license as a producer. 

with the fee set at $100. These licenses would 

be good until revoked for cause. 

Fee for a permit to distribute a feature 

would be $10,000. with no feature eligible 

if unlicensed acting or production talent had 

a hand in making it. 

Talent working without a license would be 

liable to a $1,000 fine, with unlicensed producers 

liable for up to $5,000. Illegal distribution 

would be fined $10,000. with the penalty 

for exhibition of films in violation of 

the act $1,000. 

BOXOFFICE March 18, 1950

" 

Quick Defense Won 

On Senate Floor 

WASHINGTON—The motion picture industry 

won immediate defenders against 

Senator Johnson's blast and his proposal for 

regulatory measures in the film business. 

Senator Wiley of Wisconsin characterized the 

legislation as a "police state" bill and unconstitutional 

while Senator Cain from Eric 

Johnston's home state of Washington delivered 

a long panegyric on the sterling qualities 

of his constituent. 

Senator Wiley said Johnson would do better 

to use a flitgun than a shotgun. He predicted 

the Supreme Court would throw out 

any legislation on the pattern proposed by 

the Colorado senator. 

He said it would mean the setting up of a 

tremendous bureaucracy and would vest in 

the Department of Commerce "dictatorial 

powers which could mean life and death over 

the entire motion picture industry. 

STARTS DICTATORIAL TREND 

"Such powers would obviously be but the 

beginning of an entire dictatorial train of 

legislation which could end up by licensing 

every stage star, every radio and television 

actor and the entire entertainment profession. 

Where it would end no man could foresee." 

Wiley said he is sure "practically every 

member of the senate" would oppose the bill 

if it should reach a vote. 

The Wisconsin senator said he is as concerned 

as Johnson over misconduct by film 

stars, and that he shares Johnson's contempt 

for those concerned with "Stromboli." But, 

said Wiley, "the greatest means by which the 

American people can assure Hollywood's abiding 

by the moral law is by their refusal to 

(a) patronize objectionable pictures and (b) 

to support objectionable actors or actresses 

by boxoffice patronage. I emphasize, however, 

objectionable pictures, because I believe 

that Americans will differentiate between 

objectionable individuals who might 

participate in pictures and objectionable pictures 

as such." 

LAUDS ERIC JOHNSTON 

Referring to MPAA President Johnston, 

Senator Harry Cain said, "There is no citizen 

of my state who commands greater admiration, 

greater respect or greater real affection 

from those who know him best—his 

fellow citizens and mine." 

Johnston is a native of Spokane, Wash. 

Johnston Says U.S. Wants 

No Morals Commissar 

PROVIDENCE—Eric Johnston, president 

of the Motion Picture Ass'n of America, had 

a ready answer to the attack Senator Johnson 

made on the film industry and the MPAA 

chief personally. The senator, commented 

Johnston, "is setting up for himself a pretty 

big job to become commissar of the morals 

of the American people." 

The MPAA chief said that he had personally 

studied the Russian film industry on several 

occasions but had never seen anything 

in that country which even remotely resembled 

the plan proposed in the Colorado 

senator's bill. Johnston defended the motion 

picture industry and the morals of Hollywood 

residents. "I believe in democracy at the 

ballot box and I believe in democracy at the 

boxoffice, " he commented. 

No Exhibitor Ascap Fee, 

New Decree Provides 

NEW YORK—Motion picture exhibitors 

were freed from paying performance fees 

to Ascap this week. The Department of 

Justice and the American Society of Composers. 

Authors and Publishers signed 

amendments to the 1941 consent decrees 

which so dictate. It was a complete exhibitor 

victory. 

The amendments entered March 14 will 

force the society to make important changes 

in its licensing procedures, its internal structure 

and the distribution of revenues to its 

members. Under the decree, the society will 

derive its revenue from motion pictures from 

a single license covering all performances of a 

motion picture. A similar provision is made 

for television. 

Under the decree terms, Ascap may not sue 

exhibitors for music royalties. The first judgment 

upholds the district court decision by 

Judge Vincent Leibell in the Alden-Rochelle 

Censorship Issue Goes 

To Supreme Court 

WASHINGTON—Seeking a clear-cut 

decision to stamp out local and state 

censorship of motion pictures, the Motion 

Picture Ass'n of America this week 

called upon the Supreme Court to rule 

on the constitutionality of such censorship. 

The court was asked to hear an 

appeal from the Memphis. Tenn., ban on 

the showing of Hal Roach's "Curley" because 

white and Negro children were seen 

playing together. 

Claiming that the screen Is entitled to 

the same guarantees as the press and 

radio, attorneys for Hal Roach and 

United Artists reminded the court that 

in the Paramount discussion two years 

ago it held that "motion pictures are included 

in the press whose freedom is 

guaranteed by the First Amendment." 

Influence of films on the mass of 

Americans today "is so great as to rival, 

and perhaps even exceed, the influence 

of newspapers and other publications." 

the court was told. 

"It is a notorious fact that one of the 

first acts of any totalitarian police state 

Is to establish ruthless partisan control 

over all channels and mediums for the 

dissemination of ideas and information. 

Such action is the antithesis of the sound 

American doctrine that the best test of 

truth Is the power of the thought to get 

itself accepted in the competition of the 

market. 

"But if the truth Is to be tested in the 

competition of the market, the channels 

fer the communication and dissemination 

of information and opinion must be 

open to it, and not clogged by the petty 

despots of censorship, who only too often 

seek to abridge the individual's liberties 

secured by the Constitution to those who 

wish to speak, write, print or circulate 

information or opinion 

case brought by ITOA members. This found 

A.scap in violation of the antitrust laws and 

enjoined the society from collecting performance 

royalties in the form of a seat tax. Since 

this decision, exhibitors have been refusing 

to pay theatre collections. 

The second judgment requires Ascap to end 

a practice enabling it to monopolize the licensing 

of foreign music in this country. 

Unlike the situation which prevailed under 

the 1941 decree, the Ascap member will henceforth 

be allowed to licen.se his own music independently 

of the organization. He is also 

free to resign at any time without penalties 

and, upon resignation, he may specify that 

Ascap shall have no further part in the licensing 

of any or all of his music. 

CUT FILM COMPANY ROLE 

Ascap board members or officers who have 

an interest in a motion picture company, 

either through an affiliate or a subsidiary, 

will not be permitted to participate or vote 

on any question relating to the licensing of 

music by that film company. This will limit 

the influence of Loew's, Warner Bros, and 

Paramount, each of which operates a music 

publishing subsidiary. 

The judgments, signed by Judge Henry W. 

Goddard, were entered into with the society's 

consent, according to Fred E. Ahlert, president. 

All motion picture provisions of the 

decree are for a trial period of two years. 

Ascap is also required to make changes in its 

membership eligibility and the conduct of its 

elections. 

Commenting on the amended decree, 

Ahlert said it will insure an impartial court 

review to any commercial user of music who 

questions the society's rates. He said the society 

would continue to make available to 

the public and to commercial users information 

concerning its repertory. 

"The society pledges to continue to serve, 

to the utmost of its ability, the needs of the 

public, the society's licensees and its members 

and to aid in advancing musical culture, 

which plays so large a part in the fostering 

of democratic ideals at home and abroad," 

Ahlert said. He also commended Judge Robert 

P. Patterson, Oscar Cox and Ambrose 

Cram, special coun.sel, and Herman Flnkelstein, 

general attorney, "for their sound Judgment 

and their conscientious application over 

many months." 

ALL OBJECnVES ARE GAINED 

Milton C. Welsman, attorney for ITOA In 

the Ascap action, said that the judgment 

against the society in the Alden-Rochelle 

case has been withdrawn and all objectives 

in the case have been achieved by the entry 

of the amended consent decree. 

The disposition brings "stability to the industry, 

quiets any claims that could be made 

against any of the exhibitors relative to the 

performing rights of music .synchronized with 

motion picture film and releases the motion 

picture exhibitors of America—not only the 

plalntlff.s— from any payment to or exaction 

by Ascap for public performing rights for 

Ascap music Integrated with motion picture 

films. A more complete victory or a broader 

one for the motion picture exhibition industry 

could hardly be hoped for." Welsman said. 

BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18. 1950

PuUe ê^Û 

U.S. Court Again Rejects 

Percentage Suit Defense 

Exhibitors' motions denied in Hammond, 

Ind., for advance separate trials of their 

illegality defenses in eight actions against 

Peter G. Mailers circuit of 11 theatres. 

¥ 

New Group Plans to Aid 

Foreign Producers Here 

A tentative organization of 50 independent 

foreign film distributors in the U.S. and representatives 

of foreign producers is established 

to work closely with the MPAA. 

20th-Fox Plans $5,000,000 

For Studio Expansion 

-»< 

Spyros P. Skouras, company president, announces 

that sum to be spent on additional 

stages and other facilities to take care of an 

increasing production schedule. 

Indiana Drive-In Conclave 

Scheduled for April 5 

Under the sponsorship of the Associated 

Theatre Owners of Indiana the first general 

meeting of state drive-in operators will be 

held in Indianapolis. 

Review Board Conference 

To Discuss 1950 Films 

Attendance of more than 400 expected at 

41st annual meeting of the National Board of 

Review starting March 23 at Hotel McAlpin 

in New York City. 

Harry Walders Is Named 

To Head UA in Chicago 

Fills the post vacated .when Nat Nathanson 

was promoted to eastern and Canadian general 

sales manager; recently Paramount's 

special sales representative in Chicago. 

-X 

MPAA Delays Scheduling 

Annual Meeting Date 

Last year's parley was held April 8; Eric 

Johnston wants nothing to interfere with his 

attendance at the Anglo-American film pact 

talks in London. 

-K 

Presidential Adviser Is Retained 

As Howard Hughes Counsel 

Clark Clifford, Truman's former legal adviser 

and speech writer, will represent RKO 

chief and industrialist, in all his legal matters, 

including those in film industry. 

Closed TV Circuit Is Offered 

By DuMont for Conventions 

At cost of $11,000 an hour, commercial companies 

can hold meetings by television over 

21 -city closed circuit: will provide 16mm 

prints for cities outside video service. 

LONDON SCHEDULES FILM 

PACT CONFERENCE 

Hq^s to Them, But Amalh 

Johnston Get April Date 

tury-Fox, flew to London unexpectedly March 

12, evidently to see J. Arthur Rank before 

the latter boarded the Queen Mary March 15 

for the U.S., and also to be on hand for the 

pact talks then expected momentarily. 

Skouras wasn't reduced to any state of inactivity 

by the delay, as he had plenty of 

company business to handle in London. After 

meeting with Murray Silverstone, president 

of 20th Century-Fox International Corp., who 

has been visiting several European countries, 

he reported on several negotiations with British 

interests. 

London cables, in referring to 20th-Fox 

plans to make four features a year in Britain, 

quoted Skouras as saying the company has 

decided not to do its producing at Sir Alexander 

Korda's studios, but to use a Rank 

NEW YORK—Word came from London 

Thursday (16) that Eric Johnston, president 

of the Motion Picture Ass'n of America, 

would arrive there late in April to 

discuss a new Anglo-American film pact 

with Harold Wilson, president of the British 

Board of Trade. It was also said that 

Wilson probably will seek a reduction of 

annual remittances from the present 

$17,000,000 figure to about $11,000,000. 

The report was news to MPAA Washington 

headquarters and to the New York office 

of Ellis Arnall, president of the Society of 

Independent Motion Picture Producers, who 

will accompany Johnston to London for negotiations. 

Johnston and Wilson had talked 

over the trans-Atlantic phone recently but 

without reaching a decision on a date, according 

to MPAA. It was surmised that Wilson 

studio, either Pinewood or Denham. Skouras 

could not get loose from the pressure of also said his attempt to buy an interest in 

other business to see them immediately. Rank's Canadian Odeon circuit has reached 

First on Wilson's agenda seemed to be an a deadend, as Rank has decided not to sell, 

explanation to parliament on why the quota and that 20th-Fox has abandoned the idea 

must be cut and a report on the state of the of taking over a West End showcase. Skouras 

British industry. 

The London report did not say whether it 

said the latter plan had become unnecessary, 

evidently meaning that his business relations 

for the exploratory talks planned for Johnston 

with Rank, the best of any American dis- 

is 

and Arnall or for a meeting at which a tributor, assured him plenty of Rank theatre 

new and binding agreement would be reached. outlets for 20th-Fox films. On the other 

Johnston and Arnall will oppose any reduction 

in remittances. 

hand, he may still be negotiating for outlets 

in South Africa and Australia, where Rank 

In the meantime, there were several developments 

has heavy theatre investments. 

in the British-American film The 20th-Fox home office said it didn't 

situation. 

expect Skouras to be away more than two 

The British trade board officially approved weeks and that his trip would concentrate 

the recommendation of the Films Council on business dealings with the British, but that 

that the quota on features be reduced from he might make a side trip to Paris. 

40 to 30 per cent. Parliament must now act Rank is due in New York Monday (20i with 

on the matter. 

Mrs. Rank. John H. Davis, his managing 

Spyros P. Skouras, president of 20th Cen- 

director, will come by air. two days later. 

Phonevision Executive Still Insists 

He Will Have Films for Field Test 

HOLLYWOOD—Reports to the contrary 

notwithstanding, Hollywood's movie moguls 

definitely have not turned a cold shoulder 

toward Phonevision, the "pay-as-you-go" 

video device developed by the Zenith Radio 

and Television Corp. and offered as a solution 

to the present highly competitive status 

of the two rival entertainment mediums, motion 

picture exhibition and TV. 

Such was made clear by E. F. McDonald 

jr., president of Zenith, at a press conference 

and demonstration of Phonevision, 

staged for filmmakers' benefit. Denying that 

he had encountered only stone walls in his 

efforts to secure representative Hollywood 

product to conduct a test of the device in 

the Chicago area next fall, McDonald declared 

he has now garnered a sufficient supply, 

but will not reveal what pictures he has 

obtained until just prior to the test. 

In his cards-on-the-table remarks at the 

local demonstration, the executive charged: 

"You can't stand in the way of progress. 

People are going to buy television. They're 

going to stay in their living rooms and look 

at it. And then what happens to your boxoffice 

and your industry?" 

Introducing McDonald, Producer-Director 

Cecil B. DeMille warned that television and 

motion pictures must eventually join forces 

and declared that Phonevision may be the 

answer. He urged filmdom "not to turn its 

back on progress" and intimated he might 

turn over some of his pictures to McDonald 

for the latter's upcoming Chicago test, for 

which approval of the Federal Communications 

commission has been obtained. 

McDonald emphasized that he is not in 

quest of new films—although he said he has 

had an offer of one picture which has not 

yet gone into release—but desires pictures 

approximately one year old, with adequate 

casts and entertainment values. 

Tests will start about September 1. 

10 BOXOFFICE 

:• March 18, 1950

fou'// be "Riding l-|ig/i"wi>/i 

r

Paramount^ first from CaprA is 

^tott\ce 

.Shovjmen'sl 

CROSBY IN 

SOME TIME 

"A HUMDINGER FOR TOP

CROSBY 

ColeenQray 

, 

Bulletin 

Khibitor 

I" ~M. P. Daily 

ChdrlesS/ck-fdrd 

frances Q'ffbrd 

WILLIAM 

with 

RAYMOND 

JAMES 

DEMARESTWALBURNGLEASON 

WARD CLARENCE PERCY HARRY 

BOND MUSE KILBRIDE DAVENPORT 

Produced and directed by FRANK CAPRA • 

Screenplay by Robert Riskin 

Additional Dialogue by Melville Shavelson and Jack Rose • Based on a Story by Mark Hellinger 

New Songs: Lyrics by Johnny Burke • Music by James Van Heusen 

câvest fhing 

//,,^^ 

|^ 

xH^ 

J:r 

'PP^^ ^'S spring

FAMOUS MARK HELLINGER STORY in which Bing is crazy 

over horses—and over Coleen Gray, his cutest 

co-star in years. They make a swell team. 

4 NEW BURKE AND VAN HEUSEN SONGS including "Sunshine 

Cake", sensational number that's inspired a terrific 

national tieup you '11 find in the pressbook. 

PLUS 2 ALL-TIME FAVORITE TUNES, "Camptown Races" and 

Yale's famed "Whififenpoof Song" sung by Bing in "one 

of the funniest comedy scenes of the year'.' says Variety. 

SPINE-TINGLING TURF CLASSIC with Bing's horse, Broadway Bill, 

tearing down home stretch in a stand-up-and-cheer 

climax that Red Kann in M.P. Herald calls "a thriller" ! 

GLAMOR GALORE — and Bing courts two of the prettiest 

daughters a millionaire ever had ... in some of the 

most hilarious scenes that Frank Capra ever directed! 

J 

^^^S'*^ ""'* 

"THE INCOMPARABLE CAPRA TOUCH.' huidcd by Film Bulletin, 

is in scene after scene — like this one in which Bing 

matches wits with a sh'ck pair of racetrack touts. 

the company with winneil 

like Cecil B. DeMlilel 

"Samson and Deiiiahl 

Color by Technicolor; Wil 

liamWyler's "The Heiress'| 

"Captain Carey.U. S. A."- 

followed soon by "No Mj 

"TJ 

Of Her Own" and 

Eagle and The Hawk 

Color by Technicolcj 

ij

TOTAL REPEAL, EVEN IF FIGHT 

GOES ALL THE WAY TO TRUMAN 

So Industry's Tax Group 

Decides if Anything 

Less Is Submitted 

WASHINGTON—The industry's taxcommittee, 

operating under supervision of 

COMPO, renewed its stand for complete 

repeal of the federal admissions tax as it 

met here Thursday (16 >. 

It was decided that if the house ways and 

means committee recommends anything less 

than total repeal, the industry's campaign 

will be brought to the floor of the house, to 

the senate and to the White House, if necessary, 

and even to a battle against a possible 

presidential veto. 

Thinking in terms of success, however, the 

committee discussed plans for a special victory 

celebration, a National "T" day and a 

Go-to-the-Movies week once the tax is lifted. 

The house committee this week voted down 

an attempt to slash the admissions and other 

excise taxes immediately and settle down to 

the consideration of an omnibus tax bill including 

cuts in the ticket tax and other levie.s 

and developing other revenue sources. The 

flash bill was offered by the Republican minority 

and was beaten down on a straight 

party vote. 

This rejection had the approval of the 

COMPO committee as the most this bill would 

have provided would have been elimination 

of the war rate on admissions. 

Careful consideration is being given by 

the committee to proposals that low-price 

motion picture admissions be exempt from 

the federal tax—with this proposal coupled 

with suggestions that the tax be cut to 10 

'Ctc^res 4?hcûp Sei>/s/f

— 

Charles Skouras Reports: 

Attendance at '49 Mark 

KANSAS CITY—Charles Skouras gave 

an optimistic report on theatre business 

in the fii-st months of 1950 at a meeting 

of his circuit's midwest personnel here this 

week. 

The president of National Theatres said 

that business in January, February and the 

first months of March is equal or better 

than it 

was in the corresponding weeks of 

1949, with the exception of southern California 

where television has cut into boxoffice 

receipts. 

A REVIVAL OF OLD TRICKS 

It will take a revival of all the tricks which 

helped spiral motion pictures into its position 

as the top mass entertainment to do 

It, he cautioned. But he expects his circuit 

to wind up the new year with attendance as 

high—possibly higher—than it was last year. 

It is to stimulate this top business that 

the National Theatres chief and some of his 

top executives are conducting a series of theatre 

merchandising conferences in five key 

cities—urging a "hats and coats off" attitude 

toward every promotion planned, whether it 

be for a motion picture or refreshment 

service. Good business can no longer be 

sustained without zip and enthusiasm on the 

part of exhibitors—and this enthusiasm must 

be transmitted to the public, Skouras warned. 

"The big trouble with exhibitors today," 

he said, "is that they have forgotten how to 

ballyhoo product. They have cut down on 

advertising, on doing the kind of exploitation 

which gets the public excited about 

pictures and stars. Unless that kind of picture 

selling is revived, we're out of business," 

he warned. 

The key city meetings are being held preliminary 

to the eighth annual Charles Skouras 

Showmanship drive, in which the various 

National Theatre divisions and individual 

theatre executives will compete for cash 

awards. The NT troupe held its first meeting 

in Milwaukee, followed it up with oneday 

sessions in Kansas City, Denver and 

Portland, and was due to wind up the tour 

on Monday (20) in Los Angeles. 

REPORTS ON BUSINESS 

Reporting on business this year, Skouras 

said he found business in the Fox Wisconsin 

circuit equal to 1949, except in Milwaukee 

where labor difficulties hurt some theatres. 

In the Fox Midwest division, which has approximately 

100 theatres in Missouri, Kansas 

and Illinois, business likewise was running 

parallel to the 1949 figures. When it came 

to the Fox Intermountain circuit, business 

was not only good, it was exceptional and, 

according to Skouras, was ahead of the first 

months of last year. Business is down In 

southern California where it is estimated 

2,000,000 persons aie watching television. 

With business generally holding up in this 

fashion, he said, managers and other executive 

personnel were not asking the anticipated 

questions of what to do to stimulate 

business, or to fight sagging boxcffice. The 

emphasis, Skouras said, was on the positive 

side of merchandising pictures. There was a 

definite swing toward an optimistic outlook 

Charles Skouras (L) and Spyros 

Skouras photographed as they exchanged 

brotherly confidences at the 20th-Fox 

merchandising forum in Chicago. The 

former, whose report on business is published 

on this page, said his theatres 

will carry the program of showmanship 

and institutional selling submitted to the 

conference on a basis of 100 per cent 

participation. 

on the future of the business and, pointed 

out the NT chief, this was no wishful day 

dreaming. There was the black ink in the 

circuit ledger to back up the enthusiasm. 

However, all executives reported that they 

recognized the fact that theatre business in 

the future will depend on what the individual 

theatre man himself does to ballyhoo 

and otherwise exploit his product and institutions. 

Case histories of "problem" pictures which 

had been turned into successful boxoffice 

were presented as part of the conferences. 

This was the direct evidence to impress upon 

theatre managers that directional selling 

"pick the audience for each picture" was a 

key point—is vital to successful film merchandising. 

Hall Baetz of Denver discussed 

several of these problem pictures. He reported 

on "Christopher Columbus" as an 

example. In selling this film, the advertising 

changed the title to "The Adventures of 

Christopher Columbus." This put action into 

it. The promotion was directed at the schools 

and special interest groups and business was 

excellent, Baetz reported. 

This directional selling also was emphasized 

by Fred Souttar of Fox Midwest, who said 

that when the national advertising material 

is not keyed to the particular territory in 

which the theatre is located it should be 

changed. Each territory has special interests 

which the exhibitor can take advantage 

of, he said, and these special interests 

must be exploited. He pointed to a revamping 

of advertising for "Chain Lightning." The 

standard campaign gave no evidence that 

the story concerned jet-propelled planes. 

When the copy was changed to put this fact 

before the public, business on the picture increased, 

Souttar said. 

Harry Seipel. the circuit's San Francisco 

Can't Use Zoning Laws 

To Ban a Drjve-ln 

CHICAGO—The viUage of Skokie has 

no right to use its zoning law to keep 

drive-in theatres out of the village. 

Judge John A. Shabaro held in supreme 

court this week. 

He ruled in favor of The Trust Co. of 

Chicago, owner of the property and the 

Skokie Amusement Corp. They wanted to 

put a 1,000-car drive-in on an 18-acre 

site in Skokie on the outskirts of Chicago. 

Skokie village officials first refused a 

building permit. After a suit was filed in 

court, the village amended the zoning law 

specifically to ban drive-ins. 

Judge Shabaro said: "Nowhere has the 

legislature granted to municipalities the 

power to wholly restrict a lawful business 

from their boundaries. The case is an 

attempt to accomplish indirectly by 

means of zoning regulations what could 

not be done directly." The judge said the 

zoning amendment is unconstitutional 

and invalid. 

Attorney Philip R. Toomin representing 

the plaintiffs said the owners of 

Skokie Amusement Corp. are Jerome and 

Raymond Marks and Martin G. Rosenfield. 

Village President George D. Wilson 

said he favored an appeal which because 

a constitutional question is involved would 

go directly to the Illinois supreme court. 

area manager, also said directional selling 

and special handling of problem pictures was 

vital these days. 

Thornton Sargent of the home office presented 

an illustrated discussion of product 

to be released within the next few months. 

At each of the five conferences he showed 

clips from the films, not only from the 20th 

Century-Fox studios but from all companies 

—and he assured the theatremen that there 

are plenty of good pictures on tap. He Usted 

more than 40 pictures which he said are 

definitely good boxoffice and will be moneymakers 

for all exhibitors who make an effort 

to sell them. 

In addition to these executives addresses 

were given at the meetings by M. M. Mesher 

on admission and license taxes, Stan Brown 

on admission prices, Gregory Duffy on advertising 

mats, John E. Lavery on the Skouras 

drive, and Vic Adams on refreshment merchandising. 

In addition, Harold Fitzgerald, 

head of Fox Wisconsin; Elmer Rhoden, Fox 

Midwest chief, and F. H. Ricketson, president 

of Fox Intermountain, spoke at the 

meetings held in their respective territories. 

Chaplin Plans to Reissue 

Early Films Through UA 

NEW YORK — Charles Chaplin has arranged 

to transfer the distribution rights to 

his famous feature-length comedies to a new 

company. Celebrated Films Corp., for renewed 

release by United Artists, of which he 

is half-owner. 

First to be shown during the next few seasons 

will be "City Lights," in which Virginia 

CherrUl played a blind girl opposite Chaplin 

as a tramp. It was originally released as a 

silent film by UA in 1931. 

18 BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950

THIS IS 

FORT KNOX! 

More people will pay more 

money to see M-G-M's ANNIE 

GET YOUR GUN than any 

other TECHNICOLOR 

screen musical in film history! 

You'll hear fhaf often!

FOX MERCHANDISING FORMULA 

HITTING 'GRASS ROOTS' LEVEL 

NEW YORK—Repercussions from the 20th 

Century-Fox merchandising meeting held in 

Chicago March 8, 9 spread swiftly in many 

parts of the country and will also be felt 

shortly in Europe. It looks like a chain reaction, 

with after-the-event reflections proving 

as stimulating as was the impressive 

presentation of ideas in Chicago. 

The follow-up activities are not confined 

to the 20th-Fox organization; they have 

already spread to several circuits and probably 

will figure in coming meetings of regional 

exhibitor units. 

MEETING IN 29 CITIES 

Twenty-nine of the exchange center conferences 

to be held for the purpose of spreading 

the message of the Chicago gathering at 

the local level were dated early in the week. 

They were: March 21—St. Louis, Chase 

hotel; Washington, D. C, Washington hotel; 

Cleveland, Statler hotel; Des Moines, Standard 

club; Minneapolis, Radisson hotel; Memphi.s, 

Peabody hotel; Philadelphia, Ben 

Franklin hotel; Indianapolis, Antlers hotel; 

Detroit; Los Angeles; Albany; Atlanta; Buffalo. 

March 22—Kansas City, Continental hotel; 

Oklahoma City. 

March 23—Dallas, Baker hotel; Pittsburgh, 

William Penn hotel; New Haven, Taft hotel; 

Charlotte, Charlotte hotel; Milwaukee, Shroeder 

hotel; Denver, New York, Salt Lake City, 

Boston, Cincinnati, Portland and San Francisco. 

Home office representatives will attend 

many of the meetings. Among them will be 

Al Lichtman, vice-president; W. C. Gehring, 

assistant general sales manager; Lem Jones, 

executive assistant to Andy W. Smith jr.; Sam 

Shain, director of exhibitor relations, and 

Rodney Bush, David Golding, Jonas Rosenfield, 

Al Pauker, Stirling Silliphant, Earl Wingart, 

Abe Goodman, Martin Michel and Ira 

Tulipan of the publicity and advertising departments. 

EXHIBITORS WILL SPEAK 

Prominent exhibitors will address each 

gathering and division and branch managers 

will preside. A prominent local film 

critic will be invited to speak, and leaders 

of both TOA and Allied will be invited to 

take part in the discussions. Representatives 

of the home office advertising and publicity 

departments will attend two sessions each. 

In the meantime exhibitor reactions were 

spreading in this country like a prairie fire 

Harold J. Fitzgerald, president of Fox Wisconsin 

Theatres, placed one of the institutional 

ads, "Your Pleasure Is All Ours," in 

the Milwaukee Sentinel. This was one of 

two four-column ads presented at the Chicago 

conference with an offer by 20th-Fox to pay 

half the cost. The Milwaukee ad appeared 

March 10, the day following the closing of 

the meeting. Slugs with the slogan "Movies 

Are Better Than Ever" were also used in 

the ads of some Chicago theatres. 

Joseph R. Vogel, vice-president of Loew's, 

Inc., in charge of theatre operations, was 

quick to go into action. He sent messages to 

The Woods Theatre, Chicago, was the 

first theatre to use the slogan "Movies 

Are Better Than Ever." Norman Kassel, 

advertising manager, had Joel Mink, his 

artist, draft the ad at the end of the first 

day's session. It appeared on the street 

in the Sun-Times at 11:30 that night.

— 

Charles Skouroi Samuel Pinanski Trueman Rembusch Mitchell Wolfson Fred Schwartx 

Harry Vinnicoff O'Donnell Leonard Go/denson 

The Exhibitor Has His Say on the Way 

He Thinks the Business Should Be Run 

NEW YORK—Most of the important 

problems facing the industry today came 

up for discussion during the exhibitors' 

open forum March 9, the second day of 

the 20th Century-Fox merchandising conference 

at Chicago. 

Probably never before in the history of the 

business have so many men representing all 

types of theatres put their opinions and suggestions 

on record in a four-hour period. 

The topics included: Rapid playoffs caused 

by shortened clearances; television; advertising; 

public relations, taxation; press agentry. 

both good and bad; program suggestions for 

producers: block selling; showmanship, and 

reports on new approaches to customer contacts 

by three sons of pioneering fathers 

M. A. Lightman jr.. Myron Blank and Walter 

Reade jr. 

That's a lot of territory to cover in a single 

morning. 

ADVERTISING 

There was wide diversity of viewpoints on 

advertising. During the opening day's session 

Charles Einfeld. vice-president of 20th- 

Fox in charge of advertising, publicity and 

exploitation, put considerable emphasis on 

the desirability of honesty in advertising, on 

analysis of pictures so that the advertising 

approach will be to the varying types of customers 

which some films will draw. 

Trueman Rembusch, president of Allied 

States Ass'n, and operator of an Indiana circuit, 

also had brought up this subject the 

previous day. He emphasized that his managers 

have to be shrewd judges of entertainment 

values, that their ads have to be 

carefully prepared, and must "keep faith with 

the pubhc." He was emphatic on the point 

of "keeping faith." because, he said, overadvertising 

might help one film, but would 

lead to declines on others. He also talked 

at length on the fact that his circuit did 

not play "Stromboli." 

These talks, and Einfeld's offer to pay 50 

per cent of two institutional ads which he 

presented to the conference, laid the groundwork 

for the second day's discussion. 

Emil Bernsteker of the Wilby-Kincey Serv- 

These four members of the 20th-Fox 

advertising, publicity and exploitation 

staff, along with several others In the 

organization, came in for praise for their 

role in the conference. Left to right, top. 

are Jonas Rosenficid, advertising manager, 

and Rodney Bush, exploitation manager, 

and (below) Stirling Silliphant 

and Al Pauker. Others singled for menlion 

for their role in the meetings were 

Sam Shain, exhibitor relations director; 

Ira Tulipan, Jack Conway, .Abe Goodman 

and Ed Solomon. 

ice Corp., Atlanta, started this phase of the 

discussions. He told his hearers that since 

the first of the year his organization had 

"taken a thorough inventory" of all Its policies. 

Advertising needs "revitalizing," he 

said, and he declared that the circuit was 

giving its older men "refresher" courses, and 

was impressing on the younger men who have 

come into the organization since 1941 "and 

know httle about the fundamentals of advertising, 

a course in advertising, and in our 

course we are going to impress them first 

with the need for analysis." 

"Too often." he continued, "in our business, 

we believe that superlatives, force and 

pressure, are intelligent selling. This is not 

the case at all. Too often producers and 

distributors try to Impress us with the fact 

that superabundance of money and pressure 

constitutes selling." 

He said a great many new mediums had 

come into use since the war, with new 

processes in newspaper layouts, designs and 

techniques. Then he said he was trying to 

"restore enthusiasm" in selling. 

Louis Schine of the Schlne Circuit took a.. 

individualistic approach to the advertising 

and promotion problem and .said he did not 

wait for the distributors to tell him how to 

put over a picture, but that he often adopted 

the ideas of major companies. He gave a 

detailed description of how his circuit used 

a modified form of the Roxy Theatre campaign 

on "Twelve O'clock High." 

"If a picture comes out that isn't so good, 

we have to make It good, because we have 

to sell it to the public," he said. 

Then he fired a shot at the majors' pre- 

.selling by saying: "Let me tell you that the 

public knows what a good picture is and 

what a bad picture is. but they don't know 

enough about when a picture is coming out." 

Schlne asked permission and received It to 

introduce Seymour Morris, publicity and advertising 

director of the circuit. 

After detailing the circuit's handling of 

•Twelve O'clock High. " Morris turned to the 

20th-Fox picture. "When Willie Comes 

Marching Home," and told how he "brought 

It down to the local level." 

Referring to "Willie." he said: "It Is one 

(Continued on page 22) 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18. 1950 21

— 

TKe^tûtd S several speakers at the 

Chicago meet predicted 40,000,000 television 

receivers in homes in five years, with 

an advertising appropriation sufficient to 

support first-class programs for them. 

This raises the following question: "How 

will television raise $450,000,000 a year to 

supply programs for 40,000,000 sets if the 

programs go dead after a single one-shot 

nationwide showing, or within a week or 

two on delayed regional releases? That 

would be at the rate of $105 per set. 

Something is wrong with the figures 

somewhere, Johnston seems to be right. 

More and better statistics are needed. 

iVo Playdate Ban 

TO CLEAR up the continuing confusion 

regarding production code seals caused 

comment on deletions 

by press and radio 

from "The Bicycle Thief" requested by Joseph 

I. Breen, the Motion Picture Ass'n of 

America has issued a formal statement. It 

points out that there has been no ban on 

unapproved films since 1942. 

When the production code was originally 

adopted there was a joint obligation on 

members of the then MPPDA not to show 

unapproved films in theatres owned or controlled 

by them. This obligation was removed 

four years before Howard Hughes 

filed suit March 25, 1946, as a result of 

his failure to get an advertising code seal 

for "The Outlaw." 

Many theatres don't show films without 

seals because the absence of the seals stirs 

state and local censors into action. The 

decision is entirely up to individual theatre 

owners. 

Clearance Absurdity 

•THE futility of dumping clearance problems 

into court is illustrated by the 

Chicago situation where distributors have 

to seek court approval of Loop runs of 

more than two weeks. 

The court granted extensions for "Samson 

and Delilah" and "Come to the Stable" 

and an exhibitor is threatening to take 

an appeal. What ought to be a matter 

of simple business judgment, with arbitration 

where agreements can't be reached, 

has become a problem for litigation— always 

expensive. And the cost eventually 

goes into the film rentals. 

Have you ordered your taxation trailer and 

petition cards from National Screen Service? 

Do it today. 

Merchandising 

Forum 

(Continued from page 21) 

of those good pictures you can dissipate without 

a good campaign behind it, and I say 

this, and I know there are probably many 

faces in this room that are going to look at 

me and gasp and almost call me a liar 

probably will—when I tell you that out of 

17 engagements we had on 'Willie.' 15 of 

them have been above average. One of them 

was below average and one was average. 

" 'Willie' is doing business for us. I think 

we are doing the business because we brought 

it down to strictly the local level. We got 

the typical family—the mother and father, 

and sometimes the composite family with the 

daughter and son—to come in and see the 

picture. We let them sell 'Willie' for us. 

"We didn't use superlatives; we didn't tell 

them what it was about. 

"We let them do the shouting for us in the 

press, on the radio and through other media. 

"I used a teaser trailer. I did not use the 

regular trailer. Instead of that, I had the 

manager go over to the radio station and 

they got out a disk and we told the audience 

we were departing from the regular 

type of trailer advertising. We did not show 

any scenes from 'Willie.' Those who had 

seen the picture told how enthused they were. 

We guaranteed the picture." 

CLEARANCES 

Quick playoffs of pictures as a result of 

the shifts in clearance setups in many areas 

came in for comment from time to time. 

Fred Schwartz of the Century Circuit said 

he was ready to take quick playoffs and 

"build up goodwill for those who wish to 

follow." 

This was in contrast with what Leonard 

Goldenson and Spyros P. Skouras had stated. 

Goldenson declared that pictures were arriving 

with so little buildup and were playing 

off so fast that the public did not have 

time to "digest" them. 

Harry Brandt also referred to this. 

"I heard Mr. Goldenson and Mr. Skouras 

say something yesterday about pictures 

playing off too fast." he said. "I can't go 

along with that. Like Andy Smith, I see a 

hazard in that perhaps some of my subsequent 

run theatres will have more clearance 

added against them. That is apt to be a 

little bit of a boomerang, because if the subsequent 

runs are going to be pushed further 

back, it is not going to be taken too lightly." 

Brandt declared that, in his opinion, the 

distributors should advertise their pictures 

four months in advance of release. 

"What happens?" he asked. "One or two 

weeks, or, possibly, sometimes a month in 

advance a campaign of a sort is put on. 

What we need is to pre-sell our pictures 

and in pre-selling, people will find out what 

they can expect. When they know what to 

expect I am positive we will find that we 

can't release our good pictures too fast." 

Robert J. O'Donnell of the Interstate Circuit 

made no specific suggestions on clearance, 

but he said: "We have a very serious 

situation in Texas. I happen to be the first 

run exhibitor, and I am in the main a second, 

third and suburban exhibitor. I have 

a great interest in all runs. 

"We do not think we ever fail to get the 

maximum out of a first run, but we are just 

as guilty as anybody in the world in the 

matter of not getting the maximum out of 

subsequent runs." 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950

I 

eOLOft BY 

Another 

Adventure 

'NATURAL" 

from U.-I. / 

J 

^\ 

A 

Storring 

YVONNE De CARLO 

PHILIP FRIEND 

with ROBERT DOUGLAS • ELSA LANCHESTER • • 

ANDREA KING screenplay by harold shumate and joseph hoffman 

Directed by FREDERICK de CORDOVA • Produced by ROBERT ARTHUR • A UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL PICTURE

gSO 

is the SfG ySAR, 

ôr yo Of from U.'l

NY Times Critic Points 

To the Good Critics Do 

CHICAGO—Bosley Crowther, film critic 

of 

New York Times, was one of the hit speakers 

of the opening session of the 20th Century- 

Fox merchandising meet. He has a gift for 

humor and surprised his listeners by displaying 

an intimate knowledge of merchandising 

problems. 

He began by saying: "Of all the firecrackers 

that they could pop in the faces of theatremen, 

I can't think of any more outraging 

than the motion picture critic of the New 

York Times." 

This was said in all seriousness and was 

taken that way, because some of the exhibitors 

present obviously were not admirers of 

critics in general, although they may not 

have had any personal antipathy for 

Crowther. 

Then he lighted the fuse on his firecracker 

by pointing out that critics sometimes 

discover important films and put them 

over. He asserted that "The Informer" was 

virtually "sneak previewed at the Radio City 

Music Hall" and was introduced by some 

very small ads. The critics "discovered" it, 

he declared. 

He mentioned other pictures that had 

been "discovered" by critics. They were, he 

said: "The Thin Man," "The Maltese Falcon," 

"Double Indemnity," "Laura," "Crossfire," 

"Henry V" and "Hamlet." 

"Fîrther, on behalf of critics," he continued, 

"I might remind you that it has been we who 

have consistently and earnestly urged and 

supported the making of such intelligent 

films as have been the eventual pride of the 

industry. And I might add that our encouragement 

of finer films has not only inspired 

public Interest, but it has helped to stimulate 

courage in Hollywood." 

At this point Crowther began to stir signs 

of enthusiastic interest and approval in his 

audience by saying that the merchandising 

and exhibition of films is quite as important 

to the progress of motion pictures as is the 

actual production of them. 

"And my interest and concern as a critic," 

he said, "is almost as much in how films are 

sold—how they and the public are brought 

together—as it is in the quality of films. For, 

to be entirely thorough, a part of my Job is 

to observe the whole scene—the whole culture—of 

motion pictures in this country. And 

I know that the public's overall consciousness 

and reactions to motion pictures are 

conditioned quite as much by advertisements, 

gossip columns, feature stories, promotion 

stunts, rumor, scandal, theatre management, 

and your character in the community as by 

what it sees on the screen." 

Columbia Six-Month Net 

Gains Over Last Year 

NEW YORK—Columbia had a net profit of 

$945,000 for the six months ended Dec. 31, 

1949, or $797,000 more than its net for the 

same period the previous year, according to 

an estimate made by Harry Cohn, president. 

Earnings per share on 654,311 shares of common 

stock outstanding were $1.22. There was 

the same amount of stock outstanding the 

previous year. 

The operating profit for the 1949 period 

was given as $1,650,000, compared with $148,- 

000 the previous year. The sum of $705,000 

was set aside for federal taxes. 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18. 1950 

A FEW REMINDERS FROM THE ROXY DIRECTOR: 

It's 

the Personalized Services 

That Help Sell Your Theatre 

CHICAGO—A. J. Balaban. executive director 

of the Roxy Theatre in New York, 

gave exhibitors an 

18-point program of 

service for patrons 

at the 20th - Fox 

conference here. He 

listed them in the 

company's "A 

Showman's Guide 

to Better Business.' 

b r o c li u r e beinn 

made available for 

distribution by Fox. 

All of the.se .service.s 

are offered at the 

A. J. Balaban Roxy. Balaban recommends 

that exhibitors exert every effort 

toward calling attention to their attractions 

and personalized services. 

Here is the checklist: 

out. 

5. Organ concerts and or Muzak and 'or 

television in lobbies and lounges. 

6. Clean, fresh, eye-appealing candy 

stands and refreshment bars. 

The world-famous Roxy Theatre 

where personalized services are many 

and the management makes a point of 

letting patrons know about them. 

Clean, fresh, eye-appeallng refreshment 

bars are a must at the Roxy 

Theatre. 

7. A hostess in the lobby or lounge for 

1. The atmosphere and facilities of the 

theatre should provide a pleasant change 

information to patron-s. 

8. Interesting and timely exhibits in lobbies 

from the usual for the patron. The theatre 

and or lounges. 

should be a veritable fairyland of novelty, 

9. 

comfort, beauty and convenience. 

to 

Mailing 

patrons 

of a 

and 

progrram 

free 

on future 

mailing of 

shows 

theatre 

2. The technical sujjeriority of sound 

post cards. 

equipment should be the best available 

10. Free coffee in lounge for patrons. 

anywhere. 

11. Pay station telephones on all floors 

3. The ventilation should be ideal in 

•summer and comfortable in winter. 

and in all lounges. 

12. Coin changers for convenience of 

4. A blowup of cast credits in lobby wall 

frame for patrons to refer to on the way 

telephone users. 

Publisher Sid Silverman 

Dies After Long Illness 

HARRISON. N. Y—Sid Silverman. 52. publisher 

of Variety and Dally Variety, died here 

March 10 after a long illness. He was president 

and publisher of Variety since 1931. succeeding 

his father, the late Sime Silverman. 

Funeral services were held In White Plains 

March 12 with Rabbi Lawrence W. Schwartz 

officiating. The deceased is survived by his 

mother. Mrs. Harriet F. Silverman, and a 

son Syd. 

13. Checking of packages, apparel and 

umbrella.s. Accepting gratuities for any 

service is strictly forbidden. The staff 

gives .service to all. at all times, without 

charge. 

14. A lost and found department. Special 

attention to all lost articles in the 

theatre and a mailing service of lost articles 

to patrons on request anywhere. 

15. A ho.spital ward to accommodate the 

ailing. 

16. Medical service by qualified physicians 

in emergencie-s. 

17. Paging on request, especially for 

physicians and registered nurses. 

18. Additional courtesies for the staff 

to remember for day-to-day operation: 

a> Truthful and correct information, 

bi Always use "Please" and "Thank 

you" and SMILE! 

c> Help patrons with hats, coats and 

bundles when they are in difficulty. 

d> A.ssist the Infirm and elderly people. 

A wheel chair -should be available If 

and when needed 

Fourth Tour for 'Samson' 

Started by Wilcoxon 

HOLLYWOOD— Fourth In a .series of nationwide 

ballyhoo tours for Cecil B. DeMllle's 

"Sam.son and Delilah" has been undertaken 

by Henry Wilcoxon. who. in addition to having 

a major role In the Paramount opus, has 

been functioning as a public relations ambassador 

for the film. The Wilcoxon Itinerary 

includes St. Paul. Milwaukee. Chicago. Toledo. 

Akron. Dayton. Columbus and OkUhome 

City. 

25

7i^€tJiMt^to«t 

/-"OLOR TELEVISION is in the forefront 

here again, with renewed hope for early 

lifting of the freeze on building of TV stations. 

Our own guess is that the freeze will 

remain in force for many months yet. especially 

since the FCC is faced with immense 

problems of channel allocation which it has 

not yet touched after six months of the 

present TV hearing. 

Thus far all the testimony has been on the 

color issue, with several more weeks to go 

on just that issue. Whether the commission 

will announce a decision then before going 

into the other problems is uncertain—but 

it is certain before that the freeze on new 

stations can be lifted the entire pattern of 

station location will have to be worked out. 

The trouble with the last allocation was 

that the commission, pressured by the industry, 

tried to place too many stations 

on too few channels, with the result that 

serious interference problems arose. The 

commission is determined not to repeat this 

error. The result is that there is a great 

deal of scrambling for position within the 

industry since everybody wants to be assigned 

channels in the so-called very high frequency 

band. Sets on the market or in the home 

today receive stations in this band. 

The alternative is assignment to channels 

in the ultra-high frequency band, which must 

be used to provide all the stations planned, 

but for which present sets are not equipped. 

Solving that one is going to provide plenty 

of first-magnitude headaches. 

Meantime, the commission has — among 

other little matters before it—the whole question 

of channels for theatre television and the 

formulation of a uniform policy, if there is 

to be one, for dealing with applicants for 

licenses who have records of antitrust violation 

or have brushed with other federal laws. 

A hearing on the latter problem is set for 

next month, but no date is set for the theatre 

TV hearing. 

So far as color is concerned, it is now generally 

believed here that the commission will 

sanction color television. The big question 

is which of the three competing systems will 

win the nod—systems are offered by RCA, 

Columbia Broadcasting System and Color 

Television, Inc. All have points of superiority, 

and there is even talk of the commission giving 

all the signal to go ahes,d and battle it 

out for public acceptance. 

Both RCA and CTI are working on a single 

tube to bring in all the colors needed for 

color transmissions. Development of such a 

tube will simplify all three systems and cut 

down the expense of color video. Also working 

on such a tube is Technicolor, which is 

presumably interested in it for both home 

and theatre TV. 

That Technicolor will soon be in position 

to show a color system for theatre TV is not 

thought likely here, since it has not filed to 

appear at the coming hearings. Paramount 

may have a color system to show, however, 

it was indicated last month by Paul Raibotu-n. 

INDUSTRY LAWYERS were .studying 

the 

possible effect of a recent decision by the 

Interstate Commerce commisison holding that 

^€p^ 

By ALAN HERBERT 

ICC regulations apply on the carrying of 

film within the borders of a state. Arising 

out of a suit by Transway. a Louisiana trucking 

company, against Exhibitors Delivery 

Service, a film carrier within the same state. 

the ruling held in effect that although state 

borders are not crossed the carrying of film 

can yet be considered interstate commerce. 

Transway had charged the defendant company 

with operating illegally because it did 

not measure up to ICC standards for insurance 

and other protection. 

An ICC examiner found, and was upheld 

by the full commission, that Exhibitors Delivery 

Service was engaged in interstate commerce 

because the film it carried had been 

sent in from out of the state and could be 

expected to leave the state again after completing 

its showings within the state. 

This ruling upsets a 12-year-old ICC policy 

of considering film carriers operating entirely 

within a state to be engaged only in 

intrastate commerce, and therefore outside 

ICC jurisdiction. It follows by only a couple 

of months the ruling by the NLRB that operation 

of theatres is also a part of interstate 

commerce. 

AMERICAN FILMS shown in Argentina 

continued to decrease during 1949, numbering 

only 195 against 261 in 1948, according to 

the U.S. Commerce department. Features 

from all countries released there in 1949 

totaled 347 compared with 453 the previous 

year. British product dropped from 32 to 11, 

French from 23 to eight and Mexican from 

34 to 14, while Italian product rose from 

36 to 48 and German from five to nine. 

Argentine-produced features rose from 40 to 

47 during 1949. 

Overflow Court Crowds 

Hear Trial 

at Theatre 

MINNEAPOLIS—Charles Novak, owner 

of the Oriel Theatre at Glencoe near here, 

gained considerable publicity for himself 

and his showhouse by throwing it open 

for overflow crowds during the trial of 

Laura Miller, Minneapolis, on charges she 

murdered her married lover, a Glencoe 

lawyer. 

The trial was front page news for all 

the Minneapolis newspapers. With hundreds 

unable to gain admission to the 

courtroom each day, Novak hit upon the 

idea of giving the overflow crowds a 

chance to listen in on the proceedings 

from his showhouse. With the court's approval, 

Novak had microphones set up in 

the courtroom to carry the testimony and 

arguments into his theatre. Everything 

went out in the showhouse through microphones 

over the public address system. 

Novak advertised "Hear the Trial at the 

Oriel Across the Street—Free." The signs 

were posted outside the courthouse. 

Minneapolis papers ran pictures of the 

people reading the signs and also of the 

crowds in the theatre. 

Wide Speaking Tour 

For Gael Sullivan 

NEW YORK—Gael Sullivan, Theatre Owners 

of America executive director, was scheduled 

to leave over the weekend on an itinerary 

that will keep him moving about the country 

almost constantly until May 25. He had 

spent the latter part of the week discussing 

the admissions tax campaign in Washington 

with Abram P. Myers, chairman of the Council 

of Motion Picture Organizations taxation 

and legislation committee, and A. Julian 

Brylawski, TOA committee representative. 

He also talked to members of the senate finance 

committee which has charge of tax 

bills in the upper house. 

Sullivan's schedule calls for him to be in 

San Francisco for a special meeting of the 

California Theatres Ass'n March 22. The following 

day he will attend the presentation of 

Academy Awards at the RKO-Pantages Theatre 

in Hollywood. He will address a March 

24 meeting of the Southern California Theatre 

Owners Ass'n in Los Angeles, which will 

conduct an all-day panel discussion of theatre 

problems. Other speakers will be Sher- 

SuUivan will then go to Oklahoma City to 

speak at the annual convention of the Theatre 

Owners of Oklahoma March 27. The 

next day he will attend the testimonial dinner 

for Ben Shlyen, publisher of BOXOF- 

PICE, in Kansas City. He also will appear at 

the spring meeting of the Kansas-Missouri 

Theatres Ass'n there the same day. 

After returning to New York, Sullivan will 

then go to Dallas to consult with R. J. O'Donnell 

April 10 on preliminary plans for the 

national TOA convention, to be held at the 

Shamrock hotel, Houston. October 30-November 

2. While in Dallas he will address a 

four-day meeting of Interstate Theatres 

Circuit managers. He will speak May 14. 15 

at a meeting of the Motion Picture Theatre 

Owners and Operators of Georgia, to be held 

in Atlanta. He will speak again at the May 

23-25 annual meeting of the Independent 

Theatre Owners of Arkansas in Little Rock. 

E. T. Gomersall Purchases 

Two Illinois Theatres 

ELGIN, ILL.—E. T. Gomersall, until recently 

assistant to W. A. Scully, vice-president 

and general sales 

manager for Universal-International, 

has 

acquired the 1.104- 

seat Grove Theatre, 

Elgin, and the 956- 

seat Luna, Kankakee, 

from the P u b 1 i x - 

Great States Corp., 

Inc., a United Paramount 

Theatres subsidiary. 

The Grove 

and Luna are in two 

of the six Illinois towns 

where Paramount has 

has been directed E. T. Gomersall 

by the U.S. district 

court to restore competitive conditions by 

divesting itself of part of its theatre holdings. 

Gomersall. who was associated with Universal 

for 20 years prior to his resignation 

in December 1949, is a veteran of more than 

34 years in the industry. His acquisition of 

the two Illinois houses marks his debut as an 

exhibitor. 

\ 

2S 

BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18, 1950

lumbia Pictures 

is proud to announce that filming of 

.fi 

Robert Rossen's 

^ 

production of 

will start 

this month 

in the town of 

Son Miguel de All 

in Mexico 

and 

e Plaza Mexico 

i«i^^ 

^^Ml.^ 

. 

adapted from 

Tom Lea's 

best-selling novel 

wiamfjSKIî^'^ 

CxyiJinjOLjCh

Para. '50 Lineup Ready; 

23 Releases Scheduled 

HOLLYWOOD—Completing its distribution 

lineup for the balance of 1950, Paramount 

will release a total of 23 pictures between 

now and the end of the year. The list, 

including five Technicolor subjects and six 

reissues, comprises: 

"Dear Wife," now in release, starring William 

Holden and Joan Caulfield, and two 

pictures to be available in April, Prank 

Capra's "Riding High," with Bing Crosby, 

and "Captain Carey, U.S.A.," Alan Ladd starring 

vehicle. 

"No Man of Her Own," starring Barbara 

Stanwyck, is set for May release. "The Eagle 

and the Hawk," Pine-Thomas production in 

Technicolor, starring John Payne, will be 

given a concentration of bookings over Decoration 

I>ay, May 30, marking its general release. 

Now going into release is "Paid in Full," 

Hal WalUs production starring Robert Cummings 

and Lizabeth Scott. 

During the spring and summer period four 

Paramount re-releases will supplement the 

regular releases. These include "Beau Geste," 

"Lives of a Bengal Lancer," "Wake Island" 

and "So Proudly We Hail." Two other reissues, 

to be selected for their suitability for 

the Christmas-New Year holiday season, will 

also be made available. 

Pictures to be released during the latter 

half of the year tentatively include: 

The Bob Hope starrer, "Fancy Pants," in 

Technicolor, co-starring Lucille Ball; "Sunset 

Boulevard," starring WilUam Holden and 

Gloria Swanson; "Mr. Music," starring Bing 

Crosby, Betty Hutton and Fred Astaire in 

"Let's Dance," Technicolor musical; Hal 

Wallis' "The Fairies," Barbara Stanwyck vehicle; 

"Copper Canyon," outdoor drama in 

Technicolor starring Ray MlUand and Hedy 

Lamarr. 

"United States Mail," with Alan Ladd; 

"September Affair," Wallis production toplining 

Joan Fontaine and Joseph Gotten; 

"Union Station." with William Holden; "The 

Lawless," Pine-Thomas production topUning 

Macdonald Carey; and "My Friend Irma 

Goes West," Wallis production with John 

Lund, Diana Lynn and Marie Wilson. 

Cecil B. DeMille's "Samson and Delilah" 

will continue in special prerelease dates. 

MGM Uses Three Pre- Release Tests 

On 'Stars in My Crown in East 

NEW YORK—MGM recently concluded a 

series of prerelease tests on "Stars in My 

Crown" to determine 

whether or not any 

changes were desirable 

in the film's format 

and to ascertain, also, 

what the most successful 

selling approach 

might be. Howard 

D 1 e t z , vice-president " 

and director of advertising, 

publicity and 

exploitation, supervised 

the openings, which 

were held In Concord, Howard Dietz 

N. H.; Lancaster, Pa., and Richmond, Va. 

"Stars in My Crown" is the story of a 

Protestant minister who, coming out of the 

Civil War, determined to use his two-fisted 

knowledge in spreading the gospel in a small 

southern town. Joel McCrea is the only big 

selling name. The picture has a warm, human 

quality which must be "sold" to potential 

audiences. Under Dietz' direction, MGM's 

home office and field promotion forces 

started on a test program of five specific 

objectives to be used in the towns where the 

picture was tested. 

The objectives were: (D. To determine 

whether or not certain revisions and changes 

should be made before the picture was to 

be regarded as in final form; (2). To see how 

far certain organizations, institutions and 

affinitive groups would go toward lending 

support, such as Protestant churches, schools, 

Parent-Teacher associations and the like; 

(3). To determine what type of advertising 

slant would be most effective as to general 

application and as to local application; (4). 

To learn what type of exploitation, advertising 

and publicity campaign would be practical 

rather than theoretical for the pressbook 

and for future use of exhibitors, and 

(5). To impress family audiences with the 

wholesomeness and warmth of the story and 

characterizations and to ascertain what mediums 

would be most effective in bringing 

this message to attract patronage. 

One of the ideas adopted in connection 

with each of the advance showings was the 

trailer in which Joel McCrea "talked" to 

patrons of the specific theatre by name from 

the screen. At Concord, he mentioned the 

Capitol Theatre and town and the same 

procedure followed for Lancaster and for 

Richmond, making the people of each feel 

that McCrea had a particular message he 

wanted them to hear. 

In Concord and Lancaster, arrangements 

were made in advance for churches and civic 

groups to see the picture and to pass on to 

their groups recommendations for seeing it. 

In Richmond, the campaign stressed the 

"action" aspects of the picture and emphasis 

was placed on the fact that the story first 

appeared in the Saturday Evening Post, 

where millions read it. 

Joe David Brown, the 

author, flew down from his home in Bruff's 

Island, Easton, Md., to make a personal appearance 

at Loew's, Richmond, opening night. 

The MGM home office staff under Dietz, 

including Si Seadler, John Joseph and Dan 

Terrell, guided Ken Prickett, Boston exploiteer. 

who worked with the manager of the 

Capitol, Concord; Ed Gallner of Philadelphia, 

who assisted Warners' Capitol managers at 

Lancaster, and Tom Baldridge of MGM's 

Washington office who cooperated with the 

Loew's manager at Richmond. 

Two Divisions Added 

To MGM Sales Setup 

NEW YORK—William F. Rodgers, MGM 

vice-president in charge of distribution, has 

created two additional sales divisions to make 

a total of seven in order 

to maintain more 

direct contact between 

sales managers and 

branch offices. The 

changes in the field 

executive setup will 

become effective 

March 20. 

The two new divisions 

are: Inter- 

Mountain, which will 

include the Kansas 

William F. Rodgers City, Denver and Salt 

Lake City offices, and 

southwestern, which will include the Dallas, 

Oklahoma City, Memphis and St. Louis offices. 

HENSLER TO KANSAS CITY 

Frank C. Hensler, formerly assistant to 

John J. Maloney, central sales manager, has 

been named intermountain sales manager, 

with headquarters in Kansas City, and John 

S. Allen, formerly assistant to Rudolph 

Berger, southern sales manager, has been 

named southwestern sales head, with headquarters 

in Dallas. There will be no assistant 

sales managers in these two divisions. 

John P. Byrne, eastern sales manager, will 

continue to make his headquarters at the 

home office. Herman Ripps, assistant eastern 

sales manager, will make his headquarters at 

the New York exchange, instead of in Albany, 

and will confine his activities to the New 

York metropolitan area only, for the present. 

Berger, southern sales head, with headquarters 

in Washington, will hereafter supervise 

the Washington, Charlotte, Atlanta, New 

Orleans and Jacksonville offices. 

Maloney, central sales head, with headquarters 

in Pittsburgh, will hereafter supervise 

the Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Cincinnati, 

Indianapolis and Detroit offices. 

BISHOP REMAINS IN CHICAGO 

Burtus Bishop jr., midwest sales manager, 

with headquarters in Chicago, will continue 

to supervise the Chicago, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, 

Des Moines and Omaha offices. 

Ralph Maw has been given the duties of 

district manager over the territory supplied 

by the Minneapolis office, where he will make 

his headquarters. 

George A. Hickey, west coast sales manager, 

will continue to make his headquarters 

in Los Angeles and will supervise the Los 

Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle 

offices. Samuel J. Gardner, assistant west 

coast sales manager, will move his headquarters 

from San Francisco to Los Angeles 

and will confine his activities to the area 

served by that office. 

Rodgers said that it is his belief that "the 

foregoing changes will provide more intensified 

concentration on sales and closer application 

to our multiple other problems, offering 

the means whereby our overall sales 

effort can be administered more effectively." 

Order your taxation trailers today! 

28 BOXOFnCE :: March 18, 1950

JA 

COLUMBIA PICTURES presents 

^^^^ 

"wiuiAM HOlOEN-coiEEN GRftY 

BiTHER IS 

A RACHEWR 

^ 

^w 

MARY JANE OHUIIULIIO ' 

CHARLES 

STUART ERWIN • CLINTON SUNDBER6 

Screen Ploy by Aleen Leslie and James Edward Grant 

Directed by NORMAN FOSTER and ABBY BERLIN 

AN S. 

SYLVAN SIMON production

. . Republic 

. . "The 

. . Type 

. . Warners 

. . 

. . 

. . Walter 

. . David 

ôUtftmod ^c^liont 

Howard Hawks to Produce 

'Big Sky' for RKO Release 

Howard Hawks, who functioned as producer 

and director on "Red River," the bigscale 

western which 

was a top grosser on 

last season's United 

Artists schedule, is going 

to remain in the 

sagebrush niche, at 

least on the first of 

three films which his 

newly organized Winche:ter 

Productions is 

to turn out for RKO 

'âdio distribution. 

•îi. ^ The outfit, formed 

bv Hawks in associa- 

Howard Hawks ^^^^ ^j^j, Edward 

Lasker, has set "The Big Sky," from a Bookof-the-Month 

novel of three years ago by 

A. B. Guthrie jr., as its initialer under the 

RKO Radio commitment. The frontier yarn 

is concerned with the adventures of trappers 

in the Missouri river region. No starting 

date has been set, however. 

Two More Independent Films 

Added to RKO's Lineup 

Two further subjects have been added to 

the RKO Radio releasing schedule—one. 

"The Golden Twenties," a semidocumentary 

produced by Richard DeRoohemont and the 

makers of "March of Time." the other "The 

Restless Age," third opus to be produced by 

Filmakers, the independent unit headed by 

Collier Young and Actress Ida Lupino. 

"The Golden Twenties," a one-hour entry 

chronicling America's jazz age, has a running 

commentary supplied by Frederick Lewis 

Allen, outlining manners and customs; Robert 

Q. Lewis, discussing Broadway, the movies, 

the theatre and nightclubs; Alan Prescott, 

touching on the era's lighter moments; Red 

Barber, handling sports; and Elmer Davis, 

interpreting the political aspects of the period. 

"The Restless Age" follows "Loving Cup" 

on the Filmakers slate and has, as its chief 

characters, American youth of the high 

school age. It is based on an original by 

Malvin Wald. v 

Cast 

Universal to Distribute 

Erskine's First Two 

First two offerings to be turned out by the 

newly formed Fidelity Pictures unit—a merger 

of Chester Erskine Productions with the 

independent company headed by Howard 

Welsch—have been set for release through 

"Standoff" at MGM . 

Universal-International, indirectly marking 

the return of both Erskine and Welsch to 

that studio. Erskine was at one time a writerproducer 

and Welsch functioned in a production 

capacity there before, at different 

times, each pulled out to go into business on 

his own. 

U-I will distribute "Man on the Run," 

which will co-star Ann Sheridan and Dennis 

O'Keefe, with Norman Foster megging, and Great" . . . 

"Illegal Bride," toplining Ginger Rogers. 

When Erskine and Welsch merged their 

interests, with A. Pam Blumenthal coming 

By 

IVAN SPEAR 

in as chairman of the board of the Fidelity 

unit, a five-picture schedule for the year was 

announced. So far as the remaining three 

are concerned, however, releasing arrangements 

have not been negotiated. This latter 

trio will comprise "The Life of Helen Morgan," 

"My Wife, the Celebrity" and "The 

Gentleman From Chicago." 

Six Literary Transactions 

Recorded for Past Week 

About par for the course, with six sales 

recorded, was the story market during the 

period. To 20th Century-Fox went "My 

Mother-in-Law, Miriam," an original comedy 

by Mortimer Braus, which has been assigned 

to Robert Bassler to produce, with F. Hugh 

Herbert to prepare the script. The yarn involves 

a daughter-in-law who acts as a 

matchmaker for her husband's mother . 

Ventura Pictures, the independent unit headed 

by Frank Melford and Director John 

Rawlins, purchased "The Lumberjack and 

the Babe," by Otto Englander, and scheduled 

it as the second in a series of four which 

it will make for Eagle Lion release. The 

initialer, completed and due for early release, 

. . . "Anybody 

is "The Boy From Indiana" 

Can Do Anything," a new novel by Betty 

("The Egg and I"» McDonald, went to Columbia. 

It's a comedy of the autobiographical 

type . . . Peter B. Kyne's horse-racing story, 

"Dog Meat," was purchased by Monogram 

and will be produced for the studio by Jeffrey 

Bernerd, who turned out the recent Monogram 

opus of the turf. "Blue Grass of Kentucky" 

acquired Sloan Nibley's 

"Under Mexicali Stars" as a sagebrusher to 

star Rex Allen. It will be produced by Mel 

Tucker Sun Stood Still," co-authored 

by Tom Lewis and Mel Dinelli, was 

picked up by MGM as a starring vehicle for 

Loretta Young. 

Independent Overseas Film 

Scheduled for Glenn Ford 

As one of the outside pictures permitted 

under his Columbia starring contract, Glenn 

Ford has been booked by Producer Irving 

Allen to star in "The Man Who Watched 

the Trains Go By," an independent effort 

which Allen plans to film in Amsterdam, 

Monte Carlo, Paris and London, rolling in 

August . casting; Disk Jockey Steve 

Allen will portray a disk jockey in 20th Century-Fox's 

"I'll Get By" . . . Leon Ames and 

Lionel Stander were handed featured roles in 

will costar 

June Haver (on loan from 20th Century-Fox) 

and Dennis Morgan in a Technicolor 

musical. "My Irish MoUy-O," to be 

produced by William Jacobs . . . Universal- 

International booked Van Heflin for the starring 

role in "Tomahawk," Technicolor western 

laid in the period of the Indian wars . 

William Demarest was borrowed from Paramount 

by Columbia to co-star with Mickey 

Rooney and Terry Moore in "Freddie the 

toppers in "Narcotic Agent," 

which Jack Schwarz is producing for Eagle 

Lion release, include Bill Henry, Pamela 

Blake and Robert Shayne. 

'Next Voice You Hear' 

Is Shot in 14 Days 

Amid the myriad solutions that have 

been offered by industry moguls to combat 

decreasing revenues, economies in the 

form of shorter shooting schedules and 

proportionately lessened budgets have 

been, perhaps, the most often mentioned 

and considered. In many cases, however, 

such suggestions have remained in the 

realm of conversation. 

But an outstanding fait accompli along 

those lines, and all the more significant 

because the studio responsible, MGM, 

has a reputation for lushness and opulence 

in its productional undertakings, 

is the fact that Leo has just completed 

one major opus in the almost-unprecedented 

shooting time of 14 days. 

The picture involved, "The Next Voice 

You Hear," was personally supervised by 

Dore Schary, vice-president in charge of 

production, and was directed by William 

A. Wellman. It beat the originally charted 

21 -day schedule by a full week. 

Schary, in complimenting the cast and 

crew for their achievement, emphasized 

that important contributions thereto 

were a ten-day program of pre-production 

rehearsals, a tight script and Wellman's 

direction, which was largely of the 

one-take variety. 

The Culver City lot has not experienced 

such brisk shooting pace since the 

days of the late W. S. Van Dyke, renowned 

for the speed and efficiency with 

which he consistently brought his pictures 

to the finish line under schedule. 

Warners Shift Schedule 

Of Cagney Brothers 

There's been a reshuffling of properties on 

the Warner Bros, docket involving Actor 

James Cagney and his producing brother. 

William. 

The Cagneys have a two-way deal with 

the Burbank studio—one calling for Warners 

to distribute a number of pictures which they 

will produce independently; another committing 

Jimmy to star in a group of films 

which Warners themselves will turn out. 

Now comes word that "West Point Story," 

a Warner-sponsored opus toplining Jimmy, 

has been postponed in favor of "Kiss Tomorrow 

Goodbye," which the Cagneys themselves 

will produce, with Jimmy in the starring 

role. It's a crime melodrama adapted 

from a novel by Horace McCoy. 

Robert Welch Will Produce 

'Dear Mom' at Paramount 

Paramount, preparing "Dear Mom" as a 

sequel to "Dear Wife," which was a sequel 

to "Dear Ruth," assigned the production 

chore to Robert Welch . Miller has 

been booked by Producer Sidney Buchman 

to meg "The Hero," Buchman's next for 

Columbia . Lang will direct "Jackpot" 

for Producer Sam Engel at 20th Century-Fox 

. . . Screenwriter Charles Hoffman 

was signed by RKO Radio to develop "The 

Sugar Plum Staircase," an upcoming Alex 

Gottlieb production. 

30 BOXOFFICE March 18, 1950

— 

SOLID In 

EVERY 

«r. 

O'f/Ctj 

'"rtnsTATE r,. 

T»>e( 

9- Oal/as 

'•«• Of Di^ 

««rch 

J950 

^ 

t'-lb, "tlon 

Sill: 

t-ii/SKSsac^s. kT; 

1.7 P°'»'itl,j, ""» neve,- . °*®''' Pr«.. "^""tory " ''°°"J 

^^^ 

-And here's one 

of the reasons: 

lakes his screen debut 

in *The Sundowners'— 

and proves himself THE 

box-office sensaffon of the year I

IDEAL FOR 

HOLY YEAR... 

OR ANY YEAR! 

PERFECT 

FOR EASTER! 

i\ 

MAGNIFICENT! 

A POWERFUL AND 

REVERENT PICTURE! 

M. C. Torres presents 

THE SINNER 

OF MAGDALA 

(The Story of Christ and 

Mary Magdalena) 

with Medea de Novara 

and cast of thousands 

The Story of a Devotion Unparalleled 

in the History of Human Experience. 

Released by Hisparto 

Continental Films Inc. 

Thru 

GENERAL FILM 

PRODUCTIONS CORP. 

25 West 45th Street, 

New York 19, N. Y. 

Lu 2-1700 

WIRE . WRITE • PHONE-TODAY 

for DATES or EXCLUSIVE TERRITORIES 

Theatre Construction, Openings and Sales 

CONSTRUCTION: 

Albany. Ga.—Adolph Gortaowsky building 400-car 

dnve-in. 

American Fork. Utah—John H. Miller building 800- 

secft, $100,000 theatre. To open about August. 

Blythe. Calii.—600-car, 5100,000 drive-in under way 

for Seth D. Perkins, Drive-ln Theatres of America. 

To be completed by April 10. 

Boston. Moss.—Arlington-Belmont-Cambridge Realty 

Co purchased ll-acre tract of state-ovmed laild for 

construction of drive-in. 

Butte. Mont.—$107,800 remodeling job set for Rialto 

by Fox tntermountain. 

Caro, Mich.-Ashmun Theatres and Clark Seeley 

formed partnership, Starlite Thecrtre Co., to build 

750-< Starlite 

Clarksdale. Miss.—M. A. Fijlle building $75,000, 

500-car GMC on Highway 49. 

Clarksdole. Mss.—J. H. Smith, A B. Smith and 

P. Shivley purchased site for 500-ccfr, $50,000 

C. 

dnve-in on Highway 61. 

Clarksburg, W. Va.—350-400-car drive-in under construction 

on Route 20 lor Clarence Snyder. 

Cope. Colo.—Construction begun on Iâinbow Theatre 

for David Thomason. 

Crow's Landing. Calil.—Westside Thealres, Inc., 

and Elmer and Zada Fink buildmg 400-car drive-in, 

Theatres building drive-in 

Yewell Lawrence building 

Decatur. 

Dexter. 

111.— Kerasotes 

Mo.—Senator 

400-ccir drive-tn on Highway 60. 

Ennis. Tex.— Ivlr. and Mrs. John Stiles and Mr. and 

Mrs Lloyd Rust plan to erect drive-in. 

Fort Smith, Ark.— J. Fred BrowTi, Sky-Vue Drive-In 

Corp., building $100,000 drive-in. 

Hartiord, Conn.—Theodore Zoh building 600-car 

drive-m on Torrington-Winsted road. 

Jacksonville Beach. Fla.—Fred H. Kent building 

$100,000, 400-car drive-in on Shelter avenue neclr 

new Beach boulevard. 

Liberty. Tex.—Arthur and Doc Milentz to build 

300-car, $70,000 drive-in on ten-acre site on Highway 

146. 

Calif.—Westside 

Liverxnor4 .. 

chased site on Highway 50 for 

Midland. Mich.—Cassidy Theatres, 

begin 

to 

construction of 500-car Sunset soon 

Moro. Ore.—Work begun on Freeman building to 

convert it to theatre. 

Morris. 111.—Bids being taken lor erection of 500-car 

Circle A for F. W. Anderson, Anderson Theatre 

Corp., on Highway 6. To open Decorcrtion day. 

Mount Pleasant. S. C.—Parkway Theatres, Inc. 

begun work on a 650-seat, $100,000 theatre on Highway 

17 

Niceville. Fla.—Neal Robinson and son building 

theatre adjacent to Fry-Wald Theatre. 

Niceville. Fla.— 150-car Bay Drive-In under way 

lor W. H. Ward cmd W. H. Graham. 

North Augusta. S. C—M. W. Hart erecting 800-seat 

theatre. 

Perry, Ga.— 188-car drive-in under way for J. C. 

// H- Pittslield. 111.—Site purchased by Russell Armentrout 

for of 400-ccn-, construction $60,000 drive-in two 

miles east of town. 

Fontiac. ^ch.—Construction of 750-car drive-in on 

Dixie highway begun by Elton L, and Marjorie Samuels. 

pleted by April 1. 

Sellersburg, Ind.—500-car Moon Glo under way for 

Joe Million. 

Shelby, Mont.—Baldy Kelly, Jim Schollard and 

W G. Hawkins formed partnership to build drive-in. 

May opening planned. 

Shelbyville. 111.—Hcfrlan Walts and Lester H. Mc- 

Roberts, Sky-Lines, Inc. building SOO-cor drive-in on 

highways 29 and 44. 

Shelbyville. Ind.—Corporation headed by Robert D. 

Wilcox purchased 12-acre site for construction of 

$S0,000, 600-car drive-in. To open late in April. 

Springfield, Mo.—Commonwealth Springfield Driveln 

Theatre Corp building 400-car drive-in on Highway 

71. 

Talmage. Ohio—Bob Postman building drive-in. 

Vancouver. B. C.—Moskal Uke and Chizen building 

500-car drive-m between New Westminster and 

White Rock. 

Vancouver. B. C.—Cranbrook Theatres to build 

600-seat theatre on site of old auditorium. 

Vancouver. Wash.—A. W. Adamson building drivein 

in Renfro Village. 

Washington. Ind.—Work started on 300-400-car 

dnve-in for Switow Theatres. 

Waycross. Ga.—Ralph Moody building 300-car 

dnve-in 

Wichita. Kas.—Plans completed for 1,100-seat theatre 

as part of $250,000 shopping center to be built 

by Mr. and Mrs. T. N. Slothower. 

Winiield. Kas.—Grading begun on 300-ccrr Winfield 

on Highway 160 for Al C. McClure, part 

OPENINGS: 

Alexandria. Ind.—Tovm, 600 seats, opened by Alliance 

Theatre Corp. 

Eaton Rapids. Mich.—C. R. Beechler opened Rapids. 

Detroit. Mich.—Fort to open soon for Clarence 

Symons. 

Houston. Tex.—950-caT, $150,000 Trail opened for 

Jack Farr. 

Logan. W. Va.—Guyan, 1,000 seats, opened by 

Keesling and Newbold. 

Los Angeles. CalU.—Los Feliz, 800 cars, opened 

by Los Feliz Drive-!n Theatres, Inc. 

Louisville. Ky.—Kenwood opened by Wilbur Fields. 

Marlin. Tex.—300-car drive-in to open immedicftely 

for H, C Stadele on Highway 7. 

Oscoda. Mich.—423-seat Lake opened by William 

Frank. 

San Jose. Calii.—900-car, $100,000 drive-in opened 

by Roy I. Wilson, Shamrock Amusement Co. 

San Marcos. Tex.—600-car, $85,000 King opened by 

Gerald J. Ebeler. Located on Highway 81, 

Spanish Fork, Utah—Angelus opened 

Waycross, Ga.—500-car drive-in on US 1 opened 

by Georgia Theatre Co. 

SALES: 

Antwerp, Ohio—Ohio Theatre to Mr. and Mrs. 

Maurice Mose from Ted Karageorge. 

Birmingham, Ala.—Birmingham Theatre sold by 

Panta Corp. to unknown firm planning to tear down 

theatre and make parking lot. 

Cedarville. Ohio—Cozy sold to Sidney Price by 

Nelson Creswell. 

Delaware. Ohio—Steve Polites and Ray Watts have 

acquired Star. 

Detroit, Mich.—Ben Singer purchased Alvin Theatre 

from Donald Fill. 

Detroit. Mich. — Rosalie Kitson has taken over 

Courtesy Theatre. 

Forest City. Iowa—Mrs. Nettie Brown sold her interest 

in Forest Theatre to her son Franklin. 

Fremont. Ohio—Strand acquired by Harold Greenberg 

from Northio circuit. 

Garden Grove, Iowa—Clarence M. Smith purchased 

Linda Theatre from Mr. and Mrs. F. L. Lisbona jr. 

Name changed to Gcirden. 

Grandview, Mo.—Carl Floyd purchased Grand 

from Carl Brizendine. 

Greenwood. I»Ess.—Palace to H. G. Alvarez by 

Charles Nelson. 

Guilford. Conn.—Fred Dandio purchased 340-seat 

Guilford. 

Hudson. S. D.—William Adkins sold State Theatre 

to John Walker. 

Walker sold State Theatre to 

Hudson. S. D.—John 

Robert Iverson. 

Indianapolis. Ind.—Earl Maltox sold Lincoln to 

undisclosed buyer. 

Isabella, Pa.—B. K, Bishop sold Isabella to Delbert 

Romesburg. 

Kansas City, Mo.—Richard Strafer sold Baltis to 

Devins & Bodney. 

Kenosha. Wis.—Standard Theatres, Inc., purchased 

Kenosha Theatre from Warner Theatres. 

Los Angeles. Calif.—Roland Macci purchased 

Dixie Theatre from Mr. and Mrs. O. W. Flannagom. 

Madison. Neb.—Arthur Goodwater purchased Capitol 

from John Noffsinger, effective April 1. 

Mermentau. La.—Lee purchased by Walter Hebert 

jr. from Lee Mayeaux. 

Montrose. Mo.—Mrs. Marge Williams sold theatre. 

Moultrie. Ga.— J. G. Snellgrove sold drive-in to 

Moody Theatre Co. 

Niceville. Fla.—Neal Robinson and son purchased 

Fry-Wald Theatre from Edward J. Freiwald. 

Oklahoma City. Okla.—Jess Bollman sold drive-in 

to Walter Kerr. 

Riverside. Calif.—Roy Hunt, Hunt Thealres, sold 

interest in DeAnza and Golden State thealres to 

Fox West Coast. 

Spokane. Wash.—D. H. Davidson purchased Unique 

from Mrs. A. P. Mitchell. 

Springfield. Mo. — Commonwealth Theatre purchased 

Springfield Drive-In. 

St. Louis. Mo.—Clifford Hough sold his interest in 

200-car Lebanon on Route 32 to his father Ralph. 

Winnipeg. Man.—Richard Miles, Western Thecrtres, 

acquired incompleted El Dorado from Tollman's Ltd. 

Winnipeg. Man.—Rudy Besler sold De Luxe Theatre 

to Leon Asper. 

Winona. Kas.—200-seat Winona sold by Mr. and 

Mrs. Ed Smith to Charles Lcfmb. 

Winthrop. Iowa—W. K. Richardson has purchased 

Winthrop from Burdette Ross. 

York. Neb.—Joe Chantry sold drive-in to Central 

States Theatres 

What have YOU done today to help secure 

repeal of the unfair amusement tax? 


CHESTER FRIEDMAN 

EDITOR 

HUGH E. FRAZE 

Associate Editor 

OKOffie 

SECTION 

PRACTICAL IDEAS FOR SELLING SEATS BY PRACTICAL SHOWMEN 

YHERE will be an interlude until the exhihitors 

who attended the 20th Century- 

Fox Showmanship meeting in Chicago 

realize how great were their own achievements 

and the full extent of their accomplishments. 

Fear, created by doubt, indecision and 

reluctance to admit personal shortcomings 

has kept many industry problems in a 

state of dormancy. Inspired by the vision 

and leadership of their host and encouraged 

by each other's admissions, those 

present were able to call a spade a spade. 

Before the seminar had concluded the television 

bogey had been exploded. Competition 

from the new entertainment medium 

had been recognized, but this was subordinated 

by the knowledge that it could be 

overcome and even utilized as an effective 

medium in the promotion of motion pictures. 

NEW INCENTIVES FOUND 

Other subjects which have had strong 

bearing and influence on theatre grosses 

were brought up. discussed, and became 

reanimated, even as those present were 

finding a new lease and new incentives for 

the restoration of showmanship. 

In place of fear, confidence—in themselves, 

in their associates, in the motion 

picture industry and in future boxoffice 

receipts—was the dominating attitude of 

the delegates as they departed. 

Leonard Goldenson. head of United Paramount 

Theatres, keyed the television attack 

by telling those present his circuit has been 

experimenting with television trailers. 

They carry the theatre message into homes 

with terrific impact. They reach the greatest 

potential audience for motion pictures, 

because they reach television fans who are 

basically entertainment-minded. He advocated 

a more intimate type of trailer 

than those in use in theatres as necessary 

for television. Another thought expressed 

by Goldenson is the fact that a survey 

revealed motion pictures are the most 

popular form of television diversion among 

children. This provides a clue for exhibitors 

on how to go after bigger patronage. 

Kids like movies. Theatres show the good 

ones. 

Both Goldenson and M. A. Ughtman jr. 

of Malco Theatres, Memphis, recommended 

that exhibitors and distributors guard 

against playing good pictures before wordof-mouth 

publicity had a chance to build 

interest in them. 

In its first run engagement in Mem- 

(confidence ^S têborn 

By (HESTER FRIEDMAN 

phis. "When Willie Comes Marching 

Home" failed to reach the anticipated 

gro.ss. This was attributed to the fact that 

the booking was concluded before word 

spread on the entertainment merit of the 

picture. A sneak preview might have corrected 

this situation, said Lightman. 

Another exhibitor's observation relevant 

to an omission in merchandising pictures, 

if coupled with Lightman's comments, presents 

an idea on how exhibitors can get a 

dividend on some of the techniques which 

they developed and which were artfully 

adopted by other industries. 

The Book-of-the-Month Club idea has 

been successful for publishers, because 

members get best-selling novels at low cost 

and while books are at the peak of popularity. 

This idea could be adapted by exhibitors 

as a Picture of the Month promotion. It 

would involve a preview once a month of 

a specially selected film having good entertainment 

value, but little attraction 

value from a selling viewpoint. The film 

would be offered to members of a Picture 

of the Month Club organized by the theatre 

manager. It would be presented preferably 

as a preview feature once a month 

at a special evening performance exclusively 

for club members. An advance sale 

of tickets on a first-come, first-sold basis 

would be arranged for what is normally 

an off-night for business. 

FILM-OF-MONTH SUGGESTED 

The Picture of the Month preview would 

have two essential values in time. First, 

members of the club w'ould have an opportunity 

to see the picture ahead of the 

general public. Second, the Picture of the 

Month slogan, along with comments of 

those who attend the preview, could be 

used in the advertising campaign which 

precedes the regular opening of the film. 

Trueman Rembusch, president of Allied 

States Exhibitors A.ss'n. touched on the 

importance of giving managers enough income 

so that they could move in the full 

social orbit of community activities. Rembusch 

pays his managers a share of the 

weekly earnings of the theatre. In return 

the manager Is expected to participate and 

take active leadership in all community 

clubs and organizations. 

This personal contact has been instrumental 

at times in giving the manager 

advance notice of Impending legislation 

and movements detrimental to the welfare 

of the theatre. It has also enabled the 

manager to head off these detrimental 

actions before they are permitted to materialize. 

Other exhibitors mounted the rostrum to 

remind those present that showmanship included 

the good graces of service and hospitality. 

Patrons must be received by employes 

gracefully. Cordiality, politeness 

and a hospitable attitude—making people 

feel at home, that they are welcome—are 

fundamental requisites for successful theatre 

operation and better business. 

An idea expre.ssed by Si Fabian, head of 

Fabian Theatres, found general agreement 

among many of the older exhibitors present. 

Fabian said that business needs 

nothing more than a revival of showmanship—the 

old-fashioned kind— to cure the 

current boxoffice recession. 

URGES MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT 

Exception was made by a second-generation 

exhibitor, Walter Reade jr.. who 

called attention to the need for development 

of manpower within the present 

structure of circuit organizations. The 

.scarcity of young people in the industry 

who can be developed into showmen is an 

indication that jobs must be made more 

attractive to young people. They must receive 

greater encouragement so that they 

will come into our busine.ss, bringing with 

them new blood and fresh ideas. 

According to Reade, exhibitors also could 

attract more patronage to their theatres 

by capitalizing on the selling value of pictures 

filmed in color. Television technicians 

are of the opinion that color will 

not be ready for television reception during 

the next three years. That gives theatremen 

a clear field to exploit and merchandise 

color pictures with every resource. 

A memorandum to Spyros Skouras from 

National Theatres district managers was 

read at the meeting. The memorandum 

included the following suggestions for the 

continuation of present Ideas instituted by 

20th-Fox and ideas covering innovations 

proposed by the district managers; 

1. Test audience reaction and advertising 

campaigns. 

2. Time previews with territorial release 

dates. 

3. Slant more advertising at junior and 

child patronage. 

4. Encourage the development of showmanship 

among exhibitors who are not 

trained in modern methods of merchandising. 

Continued on next page) 

BOXOFHCE Showmandiser :: March 18, 1950 101 — 33

FBI Enters Campaign 

When 'Battleground' 

Weapon Is Stolen 

An excellent campaign for "Battleground" 

undertaken by Hudson Edwards, city manager 

for the Georgia Theatres Co. in Savannah, 

was topped by an unexpected incident 

which brought Edwards into the custody 

of the FBI. An extensive exhibit of army 

equipment was borrowed from the recruiting 

service for display in the lobby of the Lucas 

Theatre. Someone broke into the theatre, 

stole a submachine gun from the display, and 

eventually wound up in the county jail. 

As soon as the gun was missed, its loss was 

reported and Edwards was promptly picked 

up by the FBI. It finally developed that 

Edwards was only a material witness. With 

half of the staff appearing in court at the 

trial of the man who .stole the gun. the local 

press covered the entire story with frequent 

plugs for "Battleground." 

Starting out with the usual screen, lobby, 

newspaper and radio advertising, Edwards 

decorated the entire theatre with flags, bunting, 

etc. Five thousand heralds were imprinted 

and distributed, 100 window cards 

were imprinted and displayed throughout 

the area, army recruiting boards were posted 

with special one-sheets and study guides 

were personally delivered to the principals of 

all high schools, junior high schools and the 

junior college. 

The recruiting office supplied a complete 

lobby and outside exhibit of battle accoutrements, 

and on opening night Edwards arranged 

a parade and demonstration by the 

Benedictine college band and crack drill 

platoon. 

The picture had a successful engagement 

at the Lucas. 

Voice Identity Contest 

On Air Helps 'Hiding' 

Radio station CKEY in Toronto sponsored 

a Mrs. Hush Mystery promotion on "Woman 

in Hiding" at the Odeon Toronto and Fairlawn 

theatres. The contest ran an entii-e 

week and the program director of CKEY reported 

high interest among the listening audiences, 

as evidenced by the large number of 

replies. 

The idea was built around listeners trying 

to identfiy the "Woman in Hiding" from clues 

furnished each day on the Jerry Burke show. 

A topper coat was promoted as first prize 

and theatre tickets were awarded to runnersup. 

The tieup was arranged by Archie J. Laurie, 

director of publicity and public relations for 

Odeon Theatres in Canada. 

yônfidience 

(Continued from preceding page) 

5. Develop du-ect selling campaigns 

aimed at specific audiences for whom the 

picture has special appeal. 

6. Sell "off the beat" 

"Snake Pit" and "Pinky" 

are. 

pictures like 

for what they 

7. Explore every possible approach and 

method of selling a picture from the positive 

side so that potential revenue will not 

be lost through hasty bookings and unanticipated 

angles. 

8. Time national advertising to coincide 

with national release dates and territorial 

advertising with local release dates; prepare 

various types of campaigns so that 

exhibitors are not limited to one choice; 

develop supplementary press sheets to provide 

different sales angles useable in diverse 

types of theatres and drawing specific 

types of patronage. 

9. Provide periodical advertising trailers 

for coming product on three, four or 

five attractions and allow for editing. 

10. Continue to explore methods of 

utilizing television trailers to the ultimate 

end of developing a proficient sales medium 

for this specific purpose. 

11. Star caravans with studio personalities 

appearing before public groups for 

the purpose of pre-seUing attractions 

should be instituted. 

The ideas and new enthusiasm instilled 

in the more than 300 showmen from all 

sections of the country at the two-day 

forum in time will trickle down from the 

head offices, and gradually be transformed 

into concrete action to the benefit of individual 

pictures and theatres. Such examples 

of confidence and enthusiastic 

showmanship will in turn have a stimulating 

effect on the thousands of theatremen 

not directly represented at the conference, 

to the positive good of the entire 

industry. 

Cigaret, Watch Deals 

Net Wide Coverage 

For 'Love Happy' 

Working with United Artists field exploiteers, 

Ted Vanett, manager of the Karlton 

Theatre, Philadelphia, scored strong radio 

co-op advertising on "Love Happy," through 

a tieup with Kool cirgarets and the Bulova 

watch company. The radio co-ops gave the 

city and area blanket saturation of picture 

plugs a week in advance. 

The Curtis candy company provided 24- 

sheet locations at key arteries leading into 

the city, plus the cooperation of local stores 

through counter displays and window dressings 

with theatre playdate credits. 

Mobilgas featured the stars of the production 

in special display cards and billboards 

exhibited by 1,100 service stations throughout 

metropolitan Philadelphia. The Fisk Rubber 

Tire Co. placed a 750-line tiein ad in the three 

principal Philadelphia newspapers. 

The personal appearance of Ann Ronell. 

composer of the title song, "Love Happy," 

resulted in feature stories and art in the 

Philadelphia Bulletin and the News. In addition 

to personal appearances. Miss Ronell 

was interviewed on five disk jockey programs 

and two television shows, coincident 

with the Karlton opening. 

Milk Co-Op Promoted 

For 'Battleground' 

Jack Ebbersberger, manager of the Sheboygan 

(Wis.) Theatre, promoted a page 

newspaper co-op in two colors in behalf of 

"Battleground." The angle was a five-column 

scene cut from the picture showing two 

of the stars drinking milk. A reverse block 

imprinted in red appeared on the upper third 

of the page, with copy, "With milk on location." 

The dairy which sponsored the page 

devoted the following one-third of the page 

exclusively to copy from the picture and the 

playdates. Across the bottom, vital statistics 

on the subject of milk and the name of the 

sponsor were given. 

Weddir^q 

Anniversory 

Lobby Display on Dual 

Made Like Film Strips 

A 10xl5-foot di.splay board was used by Abe 

Ludacer, manager of the Valentine, Toledo, 

on "Conspirator" and "Daughter of the 

West." Stills from each of the pictures were 

.set into a mat made up to resemble a strip 

of films. These were placed upright at both 

ends of the board. Star heads and title 

plaques, aided by punchy copy, created an 

eye-arresting piece. 

To highlight the movement against the 20 

per cent ticket tax, theatre cashiers wore 

hats with a sign reading, "Tax Collector."

RCA's* S0>£R7EM$f7y LAMP 

projects the most light ever put on a screen 

in both INDOOR and DRIVE-IN THEATRES 

Jrive-in theatres all over the country are installing the 

lew RCA Supertensity Lamp because it 

puts more light 

>n the large size screens than ever before. It's a natural 

oo for large indoor theatres. 

Special "air conditioning" design principles cause the 

ICA Supertensity Lamp to operate under cool conditions. 

Film is kept cool at the projection aperture 

by a jet-blown air stream. Forced 

air-stream circulation keeps the super- 

sized lamp house cool. A water-cooled unit is also available 

for the positive carbon heat baffle. It is the only commercial 

arc lamp designed to operate with the ne\\' type 

13.6mm carbons. 

If you want the brightest and most realistic projection 

for your screen ... if you want to win greater patron favor 

for your indoor theatre or drive-in— better get all the 

information about the new RCA Supertensity Lamp from 

your RCA Independent Theatre Supply Dealer. 

•MANlFACTtRlll BV HKENKERT IK'.IIT PROJItTlON COMPANY — RCA SUBSIDIARY 

EASTERN THEATRE SUPPLY CO., INC. 

469 Pearl Street Buffalo 2, New York 

ELMER H. BRIENT & SONS, INC. 

12 "H" Street, N. E., Washington 2, D. C. 

CAPITOL MOTION PICTURE SUPPLY CORP. 

630 Ninth Avenue, New York 19, N. Y. 

BLUMBERG BROTHERS, INC. 

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

Heart Fund Tieup Is Sweetheart 

Of a Promotion for 'Mrs. Mike 

Special Valentine day promotion stimulated 

extra business at theatres in various 

sections of the country. 

Carl Rogers, manager of the Ohio Theatre 

in Columbus, tied in with the Heart Ass'n 

fund drive to obtain excellent newspaper publicity 

and merchant cooperation which helped 

"Mrs. Mike." Highlight of his campaign was 

a Queen of Hearts contest among eight high 

school homecoming queens. Contributions to 

the heart fund entitled theatre patrons to 

cast a ballot for their choice. Contestants 

were presented on the Ohio Theatre stage 

on Valentine's day, at which time the winner 

was announced and presented a Helbrose 

wrist watch. The Queen of Hearts and her 

court were interviewed by Chet Long, WBNS 

news commentator, from the theatre stage. 

NEWSPAPERS URGED AID 

All Columbus newspapers gave the contest 

a strong advance buildup, and WBNS made 

daily announcements urging the public to 

contribute to the heart fund and vote in the 

Queen of Hearts election. 

A. R. Powell, partner and manager of the 

Melba and State theatres and Beacon Drivein, 

Guthrie, Okla., promoted a "sweetheart" 

preview on Valentine day. Powell contacted 

the owner of a local furniture store and promoted 

a Lane Sweetheart cedar chest and 

also promoted three huge heart-shaped boxes 

of chocolates for additional door prizes. 

Ted Ames, manager of the Opera House, 

Millinocket, Me., had a novel Valentine day 

promotion which created a tremendous 

amount of interest, based on a "live baby 

girl" giveaway from the stage. The promotion 

was launched a month in advance and 

was advertised with an announcement that 

Wanda Mae would be offered for adoption to 

a Millinocket family as a Valentine day gift. 

BABY GAG IN MAINE 

Unusual publicity began with an offer published 

in the Millinocket Journal. At the 

same time, a teaser trailer was put on the 

screen announcing that Wanda Mae talks, 

laughs, cries, gurgles and sobs, and was looking 

for a family who would give her shelter 

and a good home until she is capable of shifting 

for herself. 

Coupon tickets were then offered to the 

public to determine who would receive Wanda 

Mae for a Valentine. The tickets were distributed 

with paid admissions at the theatre. 

36 

On Valentine day, Wanda Mae was revealed 

to be a talking doll. Ames reports that extra 

grosses resulted on Valentine day in addition 

to increased revenue created by people buying 

admission tickets prior to that date in 

order to obtain coupons for Wanda Mae. 

Three years ago, Ben Tureman started a 

promotion for Valentine day in Richmond, 

Ky., which proved very successful as an annual 

tieup. Now located at the Russell Theatre 

in Maysville, Ky., Tureman pursued the 

same idea, a Miss Valentine contest, which 

had the cooperation of both local newspapers, 

county and city high school superintendents, 

and merchants. 

Tureman first sold the papers on the idea 

that a contest of this type would involve 

many human interest ideas and angles which 

would be of great interest to readers. Progress 

of the voting was carried in the papers 

daily, in advance. Miss Valentine was selected 

by popular vote of the student body 

to represent their individual schools on Valentine 

day. The superintendent of the city 

schools expressed the thought that the idea 

is an excellent one and should be conducted 

as an annual affair in Maysville. 

Tureman canvassed the town thoroughly 

and promoted $400 in merchandise gifts which 

were awarded to Miss Valentine and runnersup 

in the contest. A local inn provided a de 

luxe dinner for all contestants prior to the 

contest. The stunt went over very well, and 

between students and families of the contestants, 

the house played to capacity attendance. 

Brotherhood Week 

Deadline March 31 

Entries for the special Citation of Honor 

and Bonus offered by BOXOFFICE in 

connection with the Brotherhood week 

drive continue to load the incoming mail. 

Examples of proficiency in showmanship 

are exceeded only by the sincerity of purpose 

manifest among the contributors. 

It is regrettable that special recognition 

cannot be given to every theatreman who 

participated in this humanitarian cause. 

Meanwhile, the Showmandiser section 

will continue to aeccept campaigns for 

the Brotherhood Bonus until March 31. 

104 — 

Screening for Clergy 

Releases Publicity 

For 'Treason' 

Before the opening of "Guilty of Treason" 

at the Paramount Theatre in Syracuse, N. Y., 

the film was screened for the Catholic clergy, 

parochial school teachers and representatives 

of Catholic charity groups. Dick Feldman. 

manager of the Paramount, also invited the 

mayor of Syracuse, business leaders, representatives 

of the service clubs, veterans 

groups, and the press and radio to the 

screening. This resulted in widespread publicity 

through radio, newspapers, and wordof-mouth. 

In addition to announcements from church 

pulpits and in the Catholic newspapers. 

Father Harrison discussed the picture and 

urged his listeners to hear it on a 15-minute 

Catholic hour program on WOLF on Sunday 

before opening. 

Newspaper co-op ads were promoted from 

Edwards and Day's department stores. 

The Syracuse Post Standard devoted an 

editorial to the picture and the Herald Journal 

gave it a three-column art spread plus a 

three-column lead story on successive days 

prior to opening. One thousand bookmarks 

were imprinted locally and distributed 

through libraries and bookshops. 

Stage Affair Climaxes 

Campaign on 'Iwo Jima' 

Impressive stage ceremonies arranged on 

opening night of "Sands of Iwo Jima" by 

Ray Light, manager of the Maryland Theatre, 

Cumberland, created word-of-mouth 

publicity and wide newspaper coverage. The 

stage proceedings were broadcast over the 

local radio station and consisted of a brief 

eulogy by a marine corps captain, interviews 

with four local veterans of the Iwo Jima 

campaign, and a half-minute of silence following 

taps in memory of all marines who 

lost their lives during the war. As a finale, 

six local marines participated in a re-enactment 

of the famous flag-raising scene. 

One hundred uniformed marines paraded 

to the theatre where they saw the picture 

as guests of the management. An exhibit of 

captured Japanese equipment was placed in 

the lobby 15 days before opening. 

Army in Buffalo Calls 

For 'Willie' Recruits 

"When Willie Comes March Home He Joins 

the Reserves" was the tiein angle used by 

Charles Taylor, publicity director for the 

Paramount Theatre, Buffalo, to publicize 

"When Willie Comes Marching Home." A- 

board posters were prepared, the lower half 

of which carried title, stars and playdates. 

The posters were placed on army A-boards 

in more than 100 locations in Buffalo and 

western New York state. 

C) 

C) 

Makes 'Prince' Tieup /- \ 

Gene Race, manager of the Cameo, Miami ^ / 

Beach, tied up with a Lincoln road jeweler 

on "Prince of Foxes." The Cameo is a subsequent 

run theatre. Race, nevertheless, obtained 

a fuU window display of precious 

stons with a large attractive poster lettered: 

"Jewelry as enchanting as the fabulous era 

of 'Fînce of Foxes,' etc." 

: 

BOXOFFICE Showmandiser : 

March 18, 1950

, was 

. 

Jacksonville 

Gets 

Mayor's Approval 

Of 'Force of Evil' 

Julius Henderson, manager of the Strand 

v^/ in Jacksonville, Fla., put on a campaign for 

"Force of E>vil" that brought unusual attention 

to the film. He obtained a letter of 

endorsement from the mayor of 

Jacksonville 

scoring gamblers and number operators and 

commending the moral lesson to be derived 

from seeing the picture. 

Henderson made a blowup of the latter and 

used it in the lobby. Headlines of local newspapers 

announcing the arrest of gamblers 

and police crackdowns on numbers syndicates 

were blown up and superimposed 

around displays in the lobby for extra attention 

value. 

The number 776. used as a part of the plot 

of "Force of Evil," was stenciled on sidewalks. 

Numbered heralds were distributed with playdate 

copy and the information that if the 

number checked with a list posted in the 

theatre lobby, the recipient would receive a 

theatre pass. Ten lucky numbers were posted 

each day, and scores of curious people turned 

up to check their circulars. 

Henderson contacted the ministers of 

congregations in the community, asking that 

they use the picture as the theme of Sunday 

sermons. Several did so. 

BOXOFFICE NUGGETS 

Leonard Utecht. manager of the Lake Tlieatre. 

Oak Park, 111., has set a weekly tieup 

with the Oak Leaves, county publication, for 

a classified tieup publicizing the theatre attractions 

in return for theatre passes each 

week. Names of residents of the community 

are published in the want ad columns, and 

upon identification at the Oak Leaves office, 

they receive free theatre tickets. In return, 

the newspaper publishes the theatre attractions 

each week. 

To exploit "Sands of Iwo Jima," the newspaper 

published a three-column .scene mat 

drawing of the famous flag raising episode, 

and readers were invited to color the drawing 

and win free theatre tickets. 

^^ 

Don't 

Sid Holland, manager of the Fairview 

(Ohio) Theatre, had three ushers garbed in 

sailor whites ballyhoo "On the Town" several 

days in advance. Signs on the back of 

each gob carried the names of the three 

principal stars, title and playdates. 

Average Wednesday busine.ss at the Uptown 

Theatre. Cleveland, was doubled recently 

when Manager Julius Lamm promoted 

a style show with "Bride for Sale." Newest 

fashions were displayed and floral decorations 

supplied through the courtesy of a fur shop, 

a model agency and a florist. 

your patrons eyes! 



My Greatest Expectations 

at the Box Office and in 

Audience Reaction. It 

great to be on the 

floor at the break to 

L hear the praise and 

comments." 

Says: 0. G. ABERNATHr 

fETIT JE/m THE«T«E 

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BOXOFFICE Showmandjser :: March 18. 1950 

Sold Exdusively in Export by ftklU t HANSEN, lid. 301 (lay St., San fiondsio II, Calif. 

— lOS — 37

. . Projectionist 

Paper and Scotch Tape Make Flash 

On Tile-Enamel Tyler, Tex., Front 

Theatremen who think there is nothing 

new in exploitation might consider how Bill 

Rast, manager of the Tyler (Tex.) Theatre, 

solved the problem of building false fronts 

when his regular front is constructed of tile 

and baked enamel and is curved so that 

blindstop and beaverboard fronts are impractical. 

Scotch tape is the means by which 

Rast overcomes this problem and he manages 

to get many unique effects with outside 

flash. 

When "Canyon City" played at the Tyler 

several months ago, Rast learned that the Interstate 

circuit warehouse had some paper 

that looked pretty much like prison walls. 

He covered up the entire front, using Scotch 

tape to make the paper adhere to the enamel 

and tile. Over this he pasted his stills and 

other advertising material, with copy lettered 

right on the background. 

The next experiment was with wallpaper. 

After the background was put up, six-sheets, 

one-sheet posters and stills gave it a terrific 

flash. Again using his ingenuity, he hit 

upon the idea of using ordinary blanking 

paper or poster paper in solid colors. This 

enabled him to create a false front almost at 

will, with changes in lettering and art work 

helping to give each front a fresh appearance. 

Rast reports that the paper holds to the 

tile and enamel even in rainy or cold weather, 

and the cost is more than offset by the general 

attractiveness and attention value of 

the unique fronts. 

Churches Canvassed 

For Aid on Treason' 

At Tell City. Ind. 

Silver Raley, manager of the Swiss Theatre. 

Tell City, Ind., managed to promote good 

relationship with the local Catholic church 

and at the same time receive wide publicity 

for "Guilty of Treason" in one of the least 

expensive yet most effective exploitation 

campaigns undertaken in that situation. 

Raley obtained a print of "Guilty of 

Treason" two days prior to playdate and 

screened it for teachers of the city and rural 

schools, the army and city council, and heads 

of other patriotic organizations. 

A list of all Catholic parishes and priests 

within a radius of 25 miles was obtained, 

and all clergymen and nuns in the area were 

invited to attend. Following the screening, 

Raley gave representatives from each parish 

a press sheet and a sign imprinted with the 

playdates for display in church vestibules. 

The local church used additional press 

material, stills and a blowup of a "Treason" 

recommendation. At all masses, the priest 

urged the congregation to see the picture. 

The church also listed the picture with a special 

M rating, classifying the production as 

a "must see." 

Protestant ministers from Tell City were 

also invited to the screening, following which 

they announced from the pulpits that if 

people must go to the shows, they should 

see "Guilty of Treason." 

The editor of the local paper devoted an 

editorial to the picture, published in a box 

on the front page in boldface type. 

Raley contacted unions, several of which 

have radio programs, and the picture was 

plugged on these broadcasts prior to opening 

at no expense to the theatre. 

Business was above average as a result of 

the special effort, and Raley suggests that 

exhibitors working with the church will probably 

get the same fine cooperation which 

marked the engagement in Tell City. 

Real Art is Added to Reel Art . 

J. Mitckes Works at New Craft 

Pictured above at right is John 

Mitckes of the Apollo Theatre, 

Belvidere, 111., who took up art as 

a hobby during his slack hours in 

the projection booth. As he became 

interested in the new hobby, 

the ambitious ex-G.I. decided to 

attend art school. He drives 300 

miles a week to attend sessions in 

Chicago. Two of his recent displays 

are shown at left. 

38 — 106 BOXOFFICE Showmandiser :: March 18, 1950

ISisjF'nncis Prances 

rop| \J ^ ^^m -- 

1 Wl 

And Entrances 

U-I sent the star of "Francis" on a cross-country personal appearance 

tour. Local theatremen provided angles for humorous tieups. In New 

Orleans, RKO Theatre publicist Jerry Shinbach had Francis kick off 

the March of Dimes drive. Later Francis was honored by having a 

handicap race named for him at the fairgrounds. Publicity was 

abundant. Above, right. Francis was guest of honor at the Mayo hotel 

in Tulsa. Rooms were too small but lobby was just right. Francis 

was popular with the news writers everywhere. 

Another terrific break in 

Tulsa ivas the presentation 

of Francis on Leon McAuliff's 

television program 

over KOTV-TV, left. At 

right, army recruiting drive 

in Oklahoma City gets a 

boost when Francis decides 

to talk up enlistments and 

local booking at the Midwest 

Theatre. The Oklahoma 

City campaign was 

handled by Manager Ralph 

Townsend who had press 

photographers accompany 

the visitor everyw^here. 

Francis could not get to every cily on his tou." so anything and every- "double" visit ROTC groups at Ft. Douglas. Left, Ev Callow. Wamct 

one having a vague resemblance to the army mule was pressed into publicity manager, Philadelphia, offered SIO.OOO to anyone who could 

service. Right, Charles Pincus, manager. Utah. Salt Lake City, had a make this jack talk like Francis. 

BOXOFnCE Showmandiser : March 

18. 1950 — 107 — 39

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Proposed at Albany 

ALBANY—The 5 per cent admission tax 

which counties and cities with 25,000 or more 

population now may levy would be extended 

to all 61 cities in the state, along with eight 

other permissive taxes, under the terms of 

a bill introduced in the senate and lower 

house. The measure is designed to carry out 

recommendations of Controller FYank Moore's 

committee on local nonproperty taxes. The 

committee, which has been studying the 

problem for sometime, made recommendations 

embodied in four measures. Another 

bill would bar the privilege-of-doing busine.ss 

tax for cities which do not currently levy it. 

until the committee can determine the fairness 

of such impost and possibly suggest a 

modification or a substitute. 

Orrin Judd, counsel for the Metropolitan 

Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n. had asked 

the Moore committee to exclude the admission 

tax from its recommendations. However, 

he felt reasonably sure a month ago his request 

would not be heeded. Gov. Thomas E. 

Dewey first suggested the series of special 

local taxes in a message to the legislature 

three years ago, and his recommendations 

were incorporated in a law passed over the 

objection of theatre interests, with, however, 

a limitation to counties and cities of 100,000 

population. The later figure was reduced to 

25,000 in 1948. 

Substitute Drive-In Bill 

To Assembly Committee 

ALBANY—The assembly judiciary committee 

rejected the Lama bill, which proposed 

a ban on drive-ins in all cities in New York 

state, but voted to send an identical measure 

by Assemblyman Samuel Roman to the rules 

committee. The judiciary committee first 

voted to kill the Roman bill, but reconsidered 

it following an appeal by Roman, who pointed 

out that he had not been notified of the committee 

meeting and had not been given an opportunity 

to explain his proposal. 

The possibility of favorable action by the 

legislature on the Roman bill appears none 

too bright. Roman talked of amending it to 

make approval of city drive-in sites by the 

state traffic commission or by a locally authorized 

body necessary before they could be 

built. This would help to prevent traffic 

congestion. Roman had received messages 

both of support and of opposition regarding 

his proposal. 

Schlaifer at D.C. Hearing 

WASHINGTON—Charles Schlaifer. president 

of Charles Schlaifer & Co., appeared before 

the senate appropriations committee in 

behalf of the National Committee for Mental 

Hygience. He urged an increase in the 

next budget of the U.S. public health service 

to help finance a program of psychiatric research 

and research training. 

G. P. Price Leaves UA 

WASHINGTON—G. P. Price, manager for 

Schine Circuit to Follow 

Through on Fox Plan 

ALBANY—The Schine circuit, acting on 

recommendations made by J. 

Myer and Louis 

W. Schine, has instituted Its own followthrough 

campaign on the 20th-Fox "Movies 

Are Better Tlian Ever" drive. At a luncheon 

in Gloversville Monday, department heads 

heard reports on the Chicago 20th-Fox showmanship 

meeting and decided to mobilii^ the 

entire circuit personnel and resources in 

support of the plan, which J. M. Schine described 

as "the first concrete one to be submitted 

to exhibitors by an industry publicrelations 

minded group." 

The plan, he added, "offers the opportunity 

to instill in the minds of the theatregoing 

public a view of optimism toward the industry 

and its product and, therefore, deserves 

the support of every individual who derives 

his livelihood from this business." 

The circuit's advertising and publicity department 

is preparing a special manual to 

outline the circuit's ideas for supplementing 

the Showmanship guide prepared by 20th- 

Fox. The campaign will begin in .some 125 

Schine houses immediately after the meetings. 

Thus far, Dan Houlihan, 20th-Pox manager 

here, said that 56 Schine and Kallet house 

managers have notified him that they will 

attend the 20th-Pox showmanship day meeting 

here March 21. He predicted that 150 

would be present. 

Si Fabian notified him that 

all his managers would attend and James 

E. Benton, after telephoning his father in 

Florida, said Benton Theatres would be represented 

fully. Bob Johnston, who was to 

contact William C. Smalley. also on vacation 

in Florida, predicted a large turnout 

from Smalley Theatres. Harry Lamont said 

his managers would attend. 

Luncheon and dinner will be served at 

the Ten Eyck hotel and there will be morning 

and afternoon sessions. A preview of a 

20th-Fox film will be given Tuesday night 

at Fabian's Palace. 

L. W. Schine, who is enthusiastic over the 

RKO Asks Court to Nome 

Metropolitan Trustee 

NEW YORK—FIKO has decided on a drastic 

move to speed up its separation from 

Metropolitan Playhouses, Inc. It applied to 

the U.S. district court for appointment of a 

trustee to take over its decree holdings in the 

circuit. This is in accord with the consent 

decree requirement in the antitrust case. 

Sears Due Back in N. Y. 

After Florida Illness 

NEW YORK—Gradwell L. Sears. United 

ArtLsts president, telephoned the home office 

from Florida this week to report that he will 

be back at his desk Monday (March 20>. 

United Artists, has resigned to take over 

Sears suffered a slight heart attack while 

immediately as general manager of the Glen 

on a Palm Beach vacation and his wife flew 

Echo Amusement park on the outskirts of 

south to be with him. 

the capital. His successor will be announced 

soon, says Paul N. Lazarus jr., executive assistant 

to President Gradwell L. Sears of UA. Order your taxation trailers today! 

Louis W. Schine (right), executive of the 

Schine circuit, and Charles Einfeld. 20th 

Century-Fox vice-president in charge of 

publicity, advertising and exploitation, 

chatting at the 20th-Fox merchandising 

forum in Chicago last week. 

results achieved at the Chicago conference, 

and Seymour L. Morris, advertising and publicity 

director for the circuit, will attend 

Cleveland and Cincinnati conferences. 

George V. Lynch, film buyer: Lou Goldstein, 

his assistant; Mrs. Florence Thomp.son 

Torrey. general office buyer; Bernard Diamond, 

a-ssistant to L. W. Schine, and Chris 

Pope, Albany booker, will attend the meeting 

here. 

Gus Lampe. general manager, and Sy 

Preedman of the publicity department will 

be present at Buffalo. Bill Kraemer, chief 

booker, and Charles Horwitz, personnel director, 

will go to the Washington conclave. 

Einfeld to Give Foreign 

Units Promotion Ideas 

NEW YORK—Charles Einfeld, 20th Century-Fox 

vice-president in charge of advertising, 

publicity and exploitation, plans to 

leave thLs country March 23 for a tour of 

foreign countries. He will pass on to overseas 

representatives the promotion ideas developed 

at the 20th-Fox Chicago merchandising 

meeting and check other operations of 

exchanges. 

His present schedule calls for visits to 

Britain. France, Italy, Switzerland, Israel and 

Spain, but he may decide to Include some 

of the Scandinavian countries. The duration 

of his trip has not been decided. 

Canton-Weiner Close Deal 

NEW YORK—Canton-Wclner Films, distributors 

of foreign and art house films, has 

made a deal with Jules Schwerin to distribute 

"Matisse" and "Maillol," art featurettes. 

In the U.S. 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950 

41

. . William 

. . Arthur 

. . . Norman 

. . George 

BROADW/AY 

Oklahoma City and Dallas. He will meet 

. . . 

. . . 

n\ Lirhtman, 20th-Fox vice-president, left 

like 

Le« us make YOU'""' • 

'"J"" 

our QUICK seimee 

•_• 

for California March 17 to attend meetings 

of the Fox West Coast circuit. Joseph Dallas March 22 and return to New York 

James R. Grainger, head of distribution, in 

H. Moskowitz, vice-president and eastern on the 25th D. Burrows, executive 

studio representative, left for west coast 

. 

vice-president of Monogram and Allied 

meetings with Darryl F. Zanuck and studio Artists, returned to Hollywood after two weelcs 

executives. David Golding. 20th-Fox pubilicty 

of conferences with eastern executives 

manager, and Stirling Silliphant, in E. K. O'Shea. Paramount Film Distributing 

charge of special promotions, met with State vice-president, returned from St. Louis. 

Department and army air force officials in 

Washington during the week to formulate Stanley Kramer, George Glass and Fred 

promotion plans on "The Big Lift." which Polangin have gone back to Hollywood after 

will be released in April. 

screening "The Men" for United Artists executives 

here and making plans for its summer 

David A. Lipton, U-I national director of 

Jerry Pickman, Paramount 

relea.se . . . 

advertising and publicity, returned to the assistant publicity head, left March 15 for 

home office after coast conferences on promotion 

Front Royal, Va., to set up the campaign for 

plans on five forthcoming films . . . the opening of "Riding High" April 1. 

Howard Dietz, MGM vice-president and advertising 

and publicity director, got back Bob Hope and Les Brown and his orchestra, 

from the coast after looking at a number who concluded two smash weeks of personal 

of new pictures and planning campaigns for appearances at the Paramount Theatre, took 

the next few months . . . H. M. Richey. MGM along Marilyn Maxwell when they left via 

exhibitor relations head, returned from a United Airlines for Syracuse to continue their 

Ben Goetz, British tour. Jane Russell, who shared stellar billing 

southern vacation . . . 

production head, arrived from the coast and with Hope at the Paramount, planed back to 

left March 7 to plane back to London to Hollywood . . . Teresa Wright, wife of Niven 

start advance work on "Ivanhoe." 

Busch, producer of "The Capture" for RKO 

release, will appear on Theatre Guild of the 

Melvin Ballerino, assistant casting director Air Sunday (19) and help publicize "The 

for the "Quo Vadis" unit, left by plane for Capture" as well as "The Men," which she 

London and Rome . B. Levy, recently completed for Stanley Kramer. 

worldwide sales supervisor for Walt Disney, 

left for the coast for a series of studio meetings 

Frances Ramsden, who made her screen 

on "Cinderella" and the forthcoming debut in Harold Lloyd's "Mad Wednesday," 

"Treasure Island" . W. Kelly, which RKO will release this summer, is vacationing 

executive vice-president of United Artists, 

Leatrice Joy, silent 

in New York . . . 

flew to Hollywood on company business days star, sailed for Europe on the America 

Sir Robert Watson Watt, director of Odeon 

Eisenstein, chairman of the 

Theatres, Ltd., left for England aboard the board of directors for Realart, and Carroll 

Queen Mary after several meetings with UA Puciato, general manager of exchange operations, 

executives here. 

left on an extended tour of the midwest 

and western exchanges . . . Christy Wilbert 

George Raft sailed March 11 on the He de 

of the Charles Schlaifer agency, and wife left 

France to make a new picture, "I'll Get You for a vacation in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 

for This," in England and France. Eric 

Pommer, film producer; Minna Wallis, film Jock Lawrence, Samuel Goldwyn advertising 

agent and sister of Hal Wallis; Charles David, 

and publicity head, returned from Phila- 

French film director, and Ludwig Bemelmans, 

author, were on the same boat for 

delphia after a whirlwind round of radio and 

press interviews . . . Al Corwin, MPAA director 

of publicity, spoke on "Activities of the 

Europe . . . William R. Ferguson and C. 

Edward Carrier of Hollywood Enterprises are 

MPAA" at the March 15 meeting of the 

back from Philadelphia, where they attended motion picture chapter of the American Veteran's 

Committee. 

merchandise conferences on star tieups . . . 

A. J. O'Keefe, U-I assistant general sales 

manager, has gone to the coast. 

Gloria Gamzon, a member of the TOA 

Walter L. Titus, Republic division manager, 

headquarters staff, and Julian E. Schiff were 

married March 12 at the Concourse Plaza 

left for Indianapolis, first stopover on 

hotel in the Bronx and left for a honeymoon 

in the Catskills. The date was also 

a trip which will take him to Memphis, Tulsa, 

w 

the 41st anniversary of the bride's parents. 

Those attending from TOA included Gael and 

Mrs. Sullivan, Herman M. and Mrs. Levy, 

' y.^*-, : 

'';l>jw.'y.yf' J^jwiigt 

Frank Ballback, Joan Burian, Alice Ginsberg, 

Mary Oliva, Sylvia Raskin and Muriel Sherman 

... A. J. Balaban, executive director 

of the 

does only ONE thing 

Roxy Theatre, invited the first 100 

patrons named Kelly to be his guests on St. 

Patrick's 

and does it well 

day for the new Roxy feature, 

"Under My Skin." 

SPECIAL TRAILERS 

»•"." 

CHICAGO 

1 327 S. Wabash Av 

0aQas^NEW YORK 

619 West 54th St, 

Treason' Set for Mayfair 

NEW YORK—"Guilty of Treason," the 

Jack Wrather-Robert S. Golden feature about 

the Cardinal Mindszenty trial, will open at 

the Mayfair Theatre just before Easter, following 

the six-week run of "Cinderella," 

— 

Hope, 'Cinderella' 

Big on Dull B'Way 

NEW YORK—Except for a smash second 

week for Bob Hope's personal appearance at 

the Paramount, where "Captain China" is 

only the incidental screen attraction, and 

"Cinderella," which is still going strong in 

its third week at the Mayfair, Broadway 

business is in the midst of the Lenten doldrums 

with the income tax deadline also 

helping to keep grosses down. 

Best of the new pictures was "Black Hand," 

which had a good first week at the Capitol, 

although both "Perfect Strangers" at the 

Strand and "The Outriders" at Loew's State 

were just average and "Conspiracy in Teheran" 

at the Ambassador was poor. Two-week 

runs are the rule rather than the exception 

at most of the first run houses, with no 

upturn expected until the Easter period. 

New pictures that opened during the week 

were "Outside the Wall," "Francis," "A 

Woman of Distinction" and "Under My Skin," 

none of which is scheduled to run until 

Easter. 

(Average Is 100) 

Ambassador Conspiracy in Teheran (UA)..._ 90 

Astor—Three Came Home (20th-Fox), 4th wk 100 

Bijou—The Red Shoes (EL), 73i-d wk. of two-a-day 90 

Capitol—Black Hand (MGM), plus stage show 110 

Globe—The Outlaw (RKO), 4th wk 95 

Gothom—Beau Geste (Para); Lives of a Bengal 

Loncer (Para), rei;sues, 3rd wk ..._ 85 

Loews State—The Outriders (MGM) 100 

Mayfair—Cinderella (RKO), 3rd wk 110 

Palace—Mr. Lucky (RKO), reissue, plus vaudeville 

95 

PcTramount Captain China (Para), plus Bob Hope 

and Jane Russell on stage, 2nd wk 175 

Park Avenue^The Astonished Heart (U-1). 4th wk. 80 

Radio City Music Hall—Stage Fright (WB), plus 

stage shov/, 3rd wk - - 93 

Rivoli—Samson and Delilah (Para), 12th wk 85 

Roxy—Mother Didn't Tell Me (20th-Fox), plus stage 

show, 2nd wk - 80 

Strand—Periect Strangers (WB), plus stage show..lOO 

Sutton—The Fallen Idol (SRO), 17th wk 85 

Trans-Lux Madison Avenue Tight Little Island 

(U-I), llth wk 85 

Victoria-The Third Man (SRO), 6th wk lUO 

'Guilty of Treason' Leads 

Philadelphia First Runs 

PHILADELPHIA — Business was fairly 

steady at first run situations. The top grosser 

was "Guilty of Ti-eason" at the Aldine with 

130 per cent. "The Outlaw," in a second week 

at the Stanton, chalked up 115 per cent. 

Aldmt^Guilty of Treason (EL) _ 130 

Boyd—Francis (U-I), 3rd wk 67 

Earle—Samson and Delilah (Para), 6th wk _. 77 

Fox—Mother Didn't Tell Me (20th-Fox) B5 

3oId-an— Paid in Full (Para), 2nd wk 85 

Korlton-Love Happy (UA), 2nd wk lUU 

Mastbaum—Young Man With a Horn (WB), 

2nd wk - 

— 

80 

Randolph—Key to the City (MGM), 4th wk 95 

Stanley-Man on the Eiffel Tower (RKO) 87 

Stanton—The Outlaw (RKO), 2nd wk 115 

WB White Collar Workers 

Will Take Strike Vote 

NEW YORK—The members of 

the lATSE 

Motion Picture Home Office Employes Local 

H-63 will meet March 20 at Palm Garden 

to vote nn strike action for the 525 workers 

in the Warner Bros, home office, according 

to Russell Moss, vice-president. lATSE permission 

was granted in a letter signed by 

Thomas J. Shea, assistant to Richard F. 

Walsh, president. The union and Warner 

Bros, have been negotiating for the past six 

months on a new w-age contract, which will 

be retroactive to Sept. 1, 1949. 




. . Send 

. . Leon 

. By 

. . The 

. . Bertha 

— 

. . 

Check on Drive-ins 

Asked in New York 

NEW YORK—The city planning commission 

is seeking to bring drive-ins under its 

jurisdiction as a means of averting traffic 

congestion and to protect the general welfare 

of the people of the city, according to Jerry 

Pinkelstein, chairman. The commissioners 

propose to write an amendment to the city's 

zoning law specifying that future drive-ins 

would need the commission's approval for a 

site permit. A public hearing on the proposal 

will be held March 29. 

At present there are two drive-ins in the 

city, at the Bronx and of the Whitestone 

bridge and on Staten island. Both have permits 

from the license department. Ball Park 

Movies, Inc. is seeking a permit for a drivein 

at Luna Park, Coney Island, but the traffic 

commission has opposed the application 

while the Coney Island Chamber of Commerce 

has favored it. The board of standards 

and appeals has an application for a 

zone variance to permit the erection of a 

drive-in on the old Brookman farm at Southern 

Parkway, Queens. 

Under the proposed amendment, the city 

planning commission may approve an application 

for a drive-in "if after public notice 

and hearing the commission determines 

that the use of the building or premises" 

for such purpose "will not create serious 

traffic congestion, will not be detrimental to 

the public health or general welfare and is 

consistent with the master plan of the city." 

All applications would require approval by 

the board of estimates. 

Brock Pemberton Funeral 

Attended by Show Folk 

NEW YORK—More than 600 members of 

the theatrical profession, including actors, 

producers, authors and critics, attended 

funeral service for Brock Pemberton, stage 

producer, at the Christ Methodist church 

New Mental Health Film 

NEW YORK—Sun Dial Films, Inc., has 

completed a documentary film, "Preface to 

a Life," for the National Institute of Mental 

Health. The picture is the first of a series 

planned by the institute and it deals with 

the influence of environment on mental development. 

It will be released during National 

Health week in April. 

Along New York's Filmrow 

KOBKKT O'NKIIJ 

fJARRY REINERS will leave by train for 

Florida Monday (20) for a long rest, 

after which he will return to RKO. Harry 

has been with Terry Turner 17 years and 

he received many wishes for a pleasant trip 

from his friends along Filmrow. Meanwhile, 

Dave Cantor will fill in while Reiners is gone 

. . . Abe Dickstein, UA branch manager, was 

given a surprise birthday party last week 

. . . Herman 

by the staff at the exchange 

Ripps, assistant eastern sales manager for 

Loew's, will move his office to the Film 

Center. His boss, John P. Byrne, will remain 

at 1540 Broadway. 

. . . Saul 

The Motion Picture Bookers club meeting 

has been postponed to Tuesday (21) because 

of the Colosseum dinner dance at the Tavern 

on-the-Green Monday night . . . Sam Feinblum, 

head booker for Columbia, is in Florida 

Leo Greenfield of Universal 

for a rest . . . 

has been ailing with the grippe 

Trauner, Columbia branch manager, will go 

to St. Louis shortly. 

Marty Hodge, supervisor of branch accounting 

for Paramount, soon will receive his 

25-Year club award . birthday greetings 

this week to Herb Seidler, Bill Brown, 

Marie Moran, F. J. Mooney, Fay Rosenthal, 

Carol L. Bodden, Bill Hartman and Evelyn 

Vitulis, all of RKO . . . Shirley Taylor and 

Rita Yellin are two new employes at the 

UA exchange . . . Hy Kaplowitz of RKO is at 

Beth Israel in Newark with a virus infection. 

Herb Pickman of the Warner publicity 

staff was out several days last week because 

of illness . . . Visitors to the 20th-Fox exchange 

included John Fiorvente, IXinellan: 

Stanley Sobelson and Paul Josephs, Newark; 

Dave Kahn, Union City, and Morris Spivak, 

Carteret . . . John Prusky, Albany booker 

for Paramount, told Kitty Flynn at the home 

office that his work as a firefighter with 

the Rensselaer fire department convinced him 

there was nothing hotter in his new avocation 

than the product he has been handling 

. . . 

March 14. Pemberton, who had produced 

more than 60 plays during a 30-year period, 

died March 11 at the age of 64. 

Pemberton's most recent hit, "Harvey," 

ran three years on Broadway and will be 

made into a film by Universal-International 

this spring with James Stewart starred and 

Josephine Hull playing the role she created 

on the stage. "Strictly Dishonorable," "Personal 

for Paramount all along. 

Hannah Zimmerman, assistant to Joseph 

Appearance" and "Kiss the Boys Good- 

bye" were among his other stage hits which 

St. 

ill 

Clair 

with 

at 

influenza 

the 20th-Fox 

several 

exchange, 

days . . . 

was 

Mike 

later were filmed. 

Muzzola, Long Island salesman for 20th-Fox, 

Jeanette 

Bert Lytell, former president of Actors was ill with a virus attack 

Equity, delivered a eulogy at the service. Finlayson, winner of the "Heiress" contest 

Others attending included Miss Hull, Stewart, 

John Golden, Grace George, Abel Green, of her Ufe when Paramount publicity men 

in Toronto, visited here and got the thrill 

Blanche Yurka, Frank Fay, Mo.ss Hart, Leland 

took her backstage for a meeting with Bob 

Hayward, Joshua Logan, Clarence Der- 

Hope. 

went, Guthrie McClintic, Lee Shubert and 

Lee Tracy, who starred in Pemberton's final Norman Elsensteln, Realart board chairman, 

Broadway production, "Mr. Barry's Etchings." 

and Carroll Puciato, exchange opera- 

tions head, are touring the company's midwest 

and western exchanges . . . Carl Devisia. 

Eagle Lion salesman, has been transferred 

to a new post in New Haven . Bamberger, 

RKO sales promotion manager, will 

speak at the Oklahoma TOA meeting In 

Oklahoma City March 27 . . . Henry Unger, 

newsreel and short subject booker for 20th- 

Fox, was confined to his home last week by 

illness ... A. J. OKeefe, U-I assisUnt general 

sales manager, now is on the coast. 

Dave Kahn of the Transfer Theatre In 

Union City, N. J., became a grandpa last 

week when his daughter gave birth to a baby 

girl . . . Ida Wolf, for the last U years .secretary 

to Oscar A. Morgan at Paramount, 

has retired to take up hou.sework. She was 

at one time .secretary to Dave Chatkin of 

The Arina Theatre 

Paramount Publix Corp. . . . 

Corp. is operating the Parkway The- 

atre in Mt. Vernon Farkas of 

the Kimball Theatre in Yonkers dropped 

into the UA exchange for a visit . . Birthdays 

. 

at Loew's will be celebrated this week 

by Catherine Sparacino, Meyer Levitt, Josephine 

Slemian, Louise Brunett and John 

F. Murphy. 

Frances Stelglitz, secretary to Curt Parker, 

office manager at Columbia, will be back 

this week after having recovered from an 

operation . Film Center is being converted 

to AC current and the electricians 

are all over the place . . Tlie staff at the 

. 

Paramount exchange was saddened to learn 

of the death of Charles H. Snyder, 45. salesman 

since 1942 in the Minneapolis branch. 

John Cunniff, Brooklyn booker for Loew's, 

has been ill with virus infection . . . Arthur 

Schulman is operating the Decatur Theatre 

in Brooklyn . . . Marion Van Nostrand has 

been added to the bookkeeping staff at Bonded 

FMlm Storage . . . Clara Heintz, accounting 

clerk in the cashier's office at UA, celebrated 

her birthday over the weekend . 

Harry Margolis says that more than 24 Loew 

branch offices have hit the 100 per cent mark 

in writing letters to Congress protesting admission 

taxes. 



LEON ROSENBLA'rr-.Sf-crcfary 

and Treasurer, Ro.senblatt-Welt 

Corporation, New York, N. Y. 

says: 

"We are celebrating our 20th 

year with RCA equipment and 

service, and find it the best 

insurance for good sound." 

To get the benefits of RCA Service 

—write: RCA SERVICE COMPANY, 

INC., Radio Corporation of America, 

Camden, N. J. 

BOXOFTICE :: March 18, 1950 43

. . Mrs. 

. . The 

. . The 

. . . Sam 

. . The 

. . Curtis 

WASHINGTON 

TJolaud Robbins, 70, manager of the Trans- 

Lux Theatre, died in Garfield hospital 

of injuries suffered in an automobile accident. 

During the vaudeville days, Robbins 

was manager of Keith's Theatre. He is survived 

by his wife . Pitts Theatre, 

Manassas, Va., part of the Pitts circuit, was 

destroyed by fire on Monday night. Smoke 

was seen conaing from the theatre, a 500-seat 

house, shortly after it closed for the night 

at 11 p. m. Fire probably was started as 

a result of the explosion of the oil heater in 

the basement. 

Glenn Norris, manager of 20th-Fox, is making 

extensive preparations for the Showmanship 

meeting which will be held in the Washington 

hotel Tuesday (21) with the majority 

of exhibitors in the Washington exchange 

area present . Helen Fiss, for m.any 

years an employe of the local 20th-Fox exchange, 

died in the Arlington County hospital 

in Arlington, Va. Services were held Friday 

(17) in Palls Church, Va., with interment in 

Oakton. Va. Mrs. Piss is survived by her husband 

William and two brothers Fred Spencer 

and Samuel Spencer. 

DRIVE-IN THEATRES 

LOOK! 

By Popular Demand 

"SPOTTY" 

Returns in Another 

"SPOT TAG GAME 

" 

And Introducing Hit Missus 

"BLOTTY" 

For Fun . . . Lafh . . . And 

Hilarious Entertainment 

PLAY 

"SPOT TAG" 

The outdoor theatres' 

Popular Intermission Game 

Order by number 

— 

Spot Tag No. 1 $17.50 

Spot Tog No. 2 17.50 

No. 1 and 2 on same order 30.00 

Motion Picture Service Co. 

Send for your free trailer suggestions. 

"Specialists in Drive-ln Theatre Trailers" 

125 Hyde St., Son Francisco 2, Calif. 

Barrick who is replacing Ethel Goldman in 

Rudolph Berger's office . . . Inspector Josephine 

Byrnes attended the dinner dance 

given by the Ancient Order of Hibernians at 

the Mayflower hotel March 17. 

SRO District Manager Ed Fontaine is in 

Pittsburgh . . . Rose Thompson, RKO inspector, 

died while undergoing an operation for 

a brain tumor . Hildebrand, Eagle 

Lion salesman, is suffering from the flu . . . 

Fred Sapperstein's father underwent an operation 

this week and is in serious condition 

Galanty, Columbia district manager, 

is laid up in Doctor's hospital with 

virus X . Westway Theatre, Baltimore, 

closes March 25. 

Rudy Berger, MGM southern sales manager, 

is in Charlotte, meeting with Branch 

Manager Jack ReVille and staff and will proceed 

to Atlanta for a scheduled meeting with 

District Manager Charlie Kessnich. 

EL Executives, Employes 

Shore 'Robinson' Profit 

NEW YORK—More than 67 per cent of 

Local F-13 executive board held a monthly the anticipated profits on "The Jackie Robinson 

Story" have been sold to a group of 

meeting Wednesday . . . Sara Young, 20th- 

Fox, has been laid up with virus for several 

Eagle Lion home office employes and executives 

and employes at many of the com- 

days . . . Mrs. Frank Boucher has been ill 

with the flu . . . Shipper Stanley Summers pany's 31 exchanges. The picture will be released 

by Eagle Lion this summer. 

has returned from a Miami vacation . . . 

Ditto Mr. and Mrs. Sam Mellits, Dentonia, Jackie Robinson, the Brookljm Dodgers' 

Denton, Md., and Mr. and Mrs. Sam Roth of second baseman who is starring in his life 

the Roth circuit. 

story, will receive 15 per cent of the net 

profit in 

MGM items: 

addition to his 

A surprise birthday 

acting salary; 

party was 

Lawrence 

given booker Max Stepkin 

Taylor has 

at the Prince 

2% per cent for his writer's 

Georges Country club . . . Office Manager 

Joe Kronman was made cub master of the 

Boy Scouts troop of which his son Bobby 

is a member . Family club gave Edith 

Hislop a beautiful blouse on her recent birthday 

. . . Newest member of the staff is Evelyn 

interest, 10 per cent has been assigned to 

banks for furnishing "first money" and 5 per 

cent goes to the Motion Kcture Center in 

Hollywood for studio space and facilities. 

The remaining 67% per cent has been reserved 

for Eagle Lion personnel investment. 

The home office investors include: William 

J. Heineman, Elliot Baron, Milton E. Cohen, 

Winston Frost, Murray Kaplan, Michael Hoffay, 

Edward Lavenberg, C. Warren Sharpe, 

Sam Seidelman, Joseph Goltz, David 

Melamed, W. M. Plaster, Neal Astrin, Lige 

Brien and Joe Sugar. Others are: Robert 

Richardson and Roy Richardson, Cleveland; 

Robert Tarwater and Mrs. Martha Chandler, 

Atlanta; Gordon Craddock sr., Houston; 

Edward Heiber, Harry Goldman and Rosalie 

Weiss, Chicago; Joe Imhof, Milwaukee; Abbott 

Swartz, Minneapolis; George Pabst, 

New Orleans; James Hendel, New York, and 

Sam Milner, Bob Goodfried and Arthur Johnson, 

Hollywood. Monroe Greenthal and 

Charles Amory, Greenthal Advertising Agency, 

New York, and seven other investors are 

also listed. 

Carson Signed by Laurel 

NEW YORK—Jack Carson has been signed 

for the lead in "Mr. Universe," a Laurel Films 

production. Joseph Lerner, executive producer 

of Laurel, will direct the picture. The 

story is a wrestling comedy written by Searle 

Kramer. Shooting is scheduled to start about 

April 15. 

Have you written to your congressmen and 

senators about repeal of the unfair amusement 

tax? 

Drive-In Ass'n Sees No 

Allied, TOA Clash 

PHILADELPHIA — There is no jurisdictional 

dispute between the National Ass'n of 

Drive-In Theatres and other organizations, 

such as Allied and Theatre Owners of America, 

who are trying to sign open airers into 

their group. 

The National Ass'n of Drive-In Theatres 

operates in 20 states and has its headquarters 

here. The group hopes to expand nationally. 

It plans to draw up a code for the ozoners 

this spring. 

The new group's counsel, Harry A. Kalish, 

explains that "drive-in operators have their 

own problems although they are also Interested 

in the situation in the entire industry." 

Kalish said it was necessary to have a separate 

group like NADT because no industrywide 

group is able to service the needs of 

roadside film operators. 

Kalish said that such an organization as 

NADT is needed to fight discriminatory legislation 

now pending in 41 states. He said 

that laws affecting drive-ins already have 

been passed in several states. 

'Egg and I' TV Showing 

Not U-I Film Version 

NEW YORK—Universal-International officials 

said that a television version of "The 

Egg and I" appearing on WNBT last week 

was not an adaptation of the film made by 

U-I in 194/7, and that the television rights 

were purchased from Betty McDonald, author 

of the original novel. 

Robert Montgomery presented the video 

version, starring June Havoc and Barry Nelson, 

and there was speculation how television 

acquired the property. It was explained that 

the television script differed from the screenplay 

in several respects and that the sponsor 

obtained clearance from the author, holder 

of the television rights. 

lATSE Semiaimual Meet 

To Be Held in Vancouver 

VANCOXATER—The semiannual meeting of 

the general executive board of lATSE of the 

U.S. and Canada will be held at the Hotel 

Vancouver for the week beginning March 20, 

the first time the lATSE governing board 

has met here. Richard F. Walsh, president, 

will preside. Other board members who will 

attend are Harland Holmesden, William P. 

Covert, Floyd M. Billingsley, James J. Brennan, 

Roger M. Kennedy, Felix D. Snow, Carl 

G. Cooper, William C. Barrett, Louise Wright 

and William P. Raoul. 

Nominate Five Directors 

To New Republic Board 

NEW YORK—A meeting of 

Republic Pictures 

stockholders will be held April 4 to 

elect five members to the board of directors. 

Those nominated by the management include 

Arthur J. Miller, Republic vice-president; 

Harry C. Mills, J. C. Penny Co.; John O'Connell, 

president of Consolidated Molded Products; 

Leon A. Swirbul, Grumann Aircraft, 

and Walter L. Titus jr.. Republic vice-president. 

O'Connell was nominated to replace 

Alex Frieder on the board. The others are 

on the present board. 


. . . Mike 

. . Quality 

. . Walter 

. . Lloyd 

. . Mrs. 

. . 

William Goldman Suit 

To Court March 27 

PHILADELPHIA — Fireworks will start 

anew March 27 when William A. Goldman's 

case against the majors goes into court. 

Goldman has called off negotiations to settle 

the $8,400,000 triple-damage suit. A tentative 

settlement would have given Goldman 

about eight neighborhood houses at a reduced 

price from Stanley-Warner Theatres if 

the independent film exhibitor would drop 

his case. The deal would have made Goldman 

the biggest independent exhibitor in 

town. 

Goldman won his first bout with the majors 

when he set a precedent by obtaining a verdict 

of approximately $600,000. The current 

suit is based on the same antitrust charges, 

but refers to another time period. 

Universal Pictures Board 

Re-Elects 13 Officers 

NEW YORK—Thirteen officers of Universal 

Pictures were re-elected at the board of directors 

meeting March 16, the fii-st meeting 

since the annual stockholders meeting in 

Wilmington March 8. 

The officers are: N. J. Blumberg, president; 

Adolph Schimel, vice-president, secretary and 

general counsel; John J. O'Conner, William 

A. Scully, Joseph H. Seidelman, Edward Muhl 

and Matthew Pox, vice-presidents; Leon 

Goldberg, vice-president and treasurer; 

Eugene E. Walsh, controller, assistant treasurer 

and assistant secretary; George Douglas, 

assistant treasurer, and Morris Davis, 

Percy Guth and Anthony Petti, assistant secretaries. 

Blumberg was named chairman of the executive 

committee for the coming year. Goldberg, 

Robert S. Benjamin, Daniel M. Sheaffer, 

Paul G. Brown and Pieston Davie were also 

named to the committee. Fox, who was replaced 

on the 15-man board by John G. 

Eidell at the stockholders meeting, was 

elected to the board, increasing it to 16 members. 

DuMont Closed TV Circuit 

Offered to Conventions 

NEW YORK—DuMont is 

preparing to offer 

a closed circuit television service via coaxial 

cables to 21 cities for use by commercial firms 

desiring to hold conventions In this way. 

Groups in each city will be formed to ask 

questions and have them answered. The cost 

will be $11,000 for the first hour. 

This new plan is of special interest to the 

film industry, because some exhibitor leaders 

have been contending that with closed circuits 

important stage shows could be relayed 

to theatres from entertainment centers. 

DuMont's plans were made known by Norman 

W. Drescher at a convention of business 

paper editors. For areas outside of television 

service 16mm prints will be furnished. 

MPAA Meeting Notices Mailed 

NEW YORK—The Motion Picture Ass'n of 

America has mailed notices calling for the 

annual meeting March 27, but it was done 

only to conform with bylaws which call for 

the setting of a date by a certain time. MPAA 

said the meeting will not be held until after 

March 27. 

PHILADELPHIA 

II one-day meeting of industryites will be 

held Tue.sday (21 1 at 10 a. m. at the 

Benjamin Franklin hotel by 20th-Fox. Sieg 

Horowitz, local manager, will offer "a definite, 

practical plan for increa.sing audience 

attendance through showmanship and merchandising 

ideas" compiled by the exchange. 

At the meeting, he will report on what transpired 

at the Chicago showmanship meeting 

... J. J. Forscher, 20th-Pox booker, still Is 

in Jewish hospital. 

. 

Elaine Metz and Kay Popper, National 

Screen Service bookkeepers, Marion Koons, 

booker, and Lau Blaustein. salesmen, were on 

Tom Rogers is learning the 

sick leave . . . 

booking ropes at Universal Helen 

Harden, Universal ledger clerk, has returned 

to work after an illness. 

Melvin Fox, famous local exhibitor, has returned 

from a Florida vacation. He leased 

the Chester Pike Drive-In from A. M. Ellis 

Theatres. Fox also has taken back his New 

Jersey theatres from Atlantic Theatres . . . 

Murray Diamond of Foxware Premiums was 

in the hospital . . . Drive-in exhibitors have 

been swarming into Vine street to get product 

for early openings. 

Milton Hale, Paramount exploiteer, was in 

Wilmington, Lancaster, York and Wilkes- 

Barre, speaking on "Samson and Delilah" to 

schools, clubs, religious and women groups 

. . . Frank Soule, Eagle Lion head of branch 

operations, dropped into the local office . . . 

Principal Films reports it has booked the 

French version of "Barber of Seville" into the 

Greenville Theatre for first run. 

Many exhibitors are claiming that Philadelphia 

has been converted into double-feature 

territory. More than half of the neighborhood 

houses are showing two films for 

the price of one to stimulate patronage . 

It was reported that George Resnick and 

William Fishman will change the name of the 

Grant to the Dell . . . Sam Wax may take 

over the Joy . Premiums is showing 

a new hand-painted Golden Orchard 

glassware set. 

. . . Anton 

. 

Two men who pleaded guilty to the armed 

robbery of the Frolic Theatre have been sentenced 

to Eastern penitentiary 

Karas, zither artist who played "The Tliird 

Man" theme, was here to appear on radio 

and television shows Nolan was 

appearing on the legitimate stage in the leading 

role of "The Silver Whistle." 

. 

Exhibitor Jimmy Humphries was in town 

from Lansford Ward from the 

Capitol in Chambersburg also was in . . 

. 

Bud Freeman, A. M. Ellis zone manager and 

pubhcity director, was on vacation . . . Sidney 

Barbet is the new Eagle Lion salesman for 

Delaware and part of Philadelphia. Barbet 

formerly was a United Artists' salesman . . . 

J. Arthur Rank is expected to be in town to 

play golf at Pine Valley with some of his 

local friends. 

Robert Bellmann has come in from Buffalo 

to take over duties as a booker at 20th-Fox 

Todd and Joan Blondell were here 

for the opening of the stage presentation of 

Paul Douglas wa.s 

"The Wisteria Tree" . . . 

here . . . Former Pittsburgh Manager Leonard 

Mintz has taken over new duties as 

United Artists .sales manager. 

Jack Lawrence, press agent for Samuel 

Goldwyn. was here promoting "My Foolish 

Heart." next feature at William Goldman's 

Randolph . . . Vernon Theatre's Assistant 

Manager Frank Tarrantino soon will be wed 

. . . Berard Haines is building a 400-seat 

house in Sellersville. The name will be the 

Selvil. 

Three Features Honored 

By Nat'l Review Board 

NEW YORK—One American picture, "The 

Black Hand" . "The Girl From San Lorenzo," 

"The Great Plane Robbery" and "The 

Whipped" (UAi, "The Great Rupert" (ELi, 

"No Sad Songs for Me" (Col). "One Way 

Street" (U-I), "Stars in My Crown" (MGM) 

and "Wabash Avenue" (20th-Fox). 

Short subjects given special mention were: 

"Harbor Lady" and "Sports Best" (RKO), 

"Ready to Ride" and "Skitch Henderson 

and His Orchestra" (U-I) and "Skiing Is 

Believing" (20th-Pox). 

Public Service Program 

Problems Studied by TV 

NEW YORK—A new Television Broadcasters 

Ass'n committee will survey all television 

stations, networks and public service organizations 

to determine what Information on 

public service material and technical requirements 

is needed to get a closer working 

relationship between the groups. Organizations 

outside of television represented 

on the committee are the Girl Scouts of 

America, YMCA, YWCA, American Heritage 

Foundation, Travelers Aid society, Institute 

for Democratic Education and Protestant 

Radio commission. 

Discina Gets French Film 

NEW YORK—Discina International Films 

will distribute the Jean Cocteau film "The 

Storm Within," starring Jean Marais and 

Jo-sette Day. The French title was "Les 

Parents Terribles." The company will dl.sclose 

the release date shortly. 

The Magic Sciccn of the Futu

. . . Jimmy 

. . . Mr. 

. . Herman 

. . Sam 

. . Mrs. 

. . Mrs, 

. . The 

. . Sam 

. . Archie 

. . W. 

. . 

. . . Lewis 

VIRGINIA 

PETERSBURG—Mrs. Clements, cashier at 

the Rex, has been transferred to the Bluebird 

. . . Herbert Bowman, assistant manager 

at the Bluebird, was a recent visitor to 

Hopewell . Rubin of the Centur.v 

celebrated birthday . . . Ditto Muriel K. 

a 

Carr, cashier at the Regent . Northington, 

manager. Century, recently obtained 

an attractive window tieup with Kresge's 

store, using the Norton bombsight to exploit 

"Twelve O'clock High." 

Leroy Talbott replaces Enoch P. Willis as 

assistant manager. Talbott formerly was employed 

as an usher at the Century and Bluebird 

before enlisting in the army. Myrtle 

Hawkins, Century cashier, has returned to 

work after an illness of three weeks. Mrs. 

Pearl Tench substituted during her absence 

Myers, manager at the Bluebird, 

and his aide Herbert Bowman have 

planned a contest tiein with local laundries 

to exploit "Mother Didn't Tell Me." 

. . . William 

. 

Mrs. Helen Reese, Bluebird cashier, returned 

to work after an operation 

Bishop, Bluebird doorman, was out a few 

days with influenza Jimmy Myers 

has returned from visiting her parents in 

James Bailey, manager at 

Washington . . . 

the Palace, has installed a candy vending 

machine in the men's lounge . Love 

jr. is working in the Palace booth again. 

. 

Arlieth Thomas is new janitor at the Palace 

replacing James Evans . . . Mrs. Florence 

Moss, manager. Regent, is grandmother of a 

baby born to her daughter-in-law and son 

. Pop Bowman, doorman at the Rex, was 

. . 

out with influenza Park Drive-In 

opened St. Patrick's day showing "My Wild 

Irish Rose" . 

Northington, manager. 

Century, was selected for jury service. 

HOPEWELL — P. A. Bowling, manager of 

the Beacon, recently displayed his skill as a 

plumber by installing his complete upstairs 

bathroom without aid from local plumbing 

OUie Renn, Beacon 

establishments . 

cashier, has resigned. She was replaced by 

Mrs. Yates Wilson, former cashier and assistant 

Daphine Wiggs, Beacon 

manager . . . candy attendant, has been replaced by Mrs. 

Gordon. 

Dusty Shaver from station WHAP will act 

as emcee for the local talent show to be 

broadcast each Saturday morning from the 

Beacon stage prior to the regular program 

Hawkins replaces Projectionist 

Walker in the Beacon booth . H. Birdsong, 

longtime operator at the Beacon, remains 

a patient in the Variety Club Will 

Rogers Memorial hospital at Saranac Lake, 

New York. 

The Beacon recently was robbed of a small 

amount of cash when two local youths entered 

the theatre after closing hours and 

broke into the concessions stand. Both of 

the youngsters were caught the following 

morning by local police. Considerable damage 

was done to doors of the candy case . 

P. A. Bowling, manager obtained an attractive 

lobby display of small firearms, used by 

the marine corp. in connection with the 

showing of "Sands of Iwo Jima." A large 

marine truck and howitzer were parked on 

the street in front of the theatre. 

Due to the loss of electrical power caused 

. . Cpl. S. D. Kidd 

by a storm the Beacon was forced to use its 

diesel-driven generator for a four-hour period 

to generate the required current . . . The 

Broadway remained in total darkness until 

the lines were repaired . 

from nearby Camp Lee is doing relief work 

in the Broadway booth. His wife and small 

daughter visited him recently . . . Dave Mc- 

Coy, manager. Broadway, says double bills 

will be discontinued at that house as of April 

1 . . . Evelyn Snead, candy attendant, Broadway, 

has recovered from a severe cold . . , 

"Stromboli" will play a two-day engagement 

at the Beacon. 

WINCHESTER—Manager Lamor Kern 

of 

the Capitol exploited "Battleground" with a 

parade of the national guard and two bands 

winding through the city's business district 

Bachrach, manager. Palace, had 

very large student turnouts for all matinee 

Buddy Ryan 

performances of "Hamlet" . . . 

joined the Palace staff . . Steve . Simkhovitch. 

Palace manager trainee, has left. 

• • • 

MIDDLETOWN—G. W. Borden, owner of 

the Lee, has added popcorn to theatre services. 

Mrs. Pauline Larrick operates the Manley 

machine. 

LYNCHBURG — The opera house, under 

management of Warners Theatres, will become 

a first run. Name of the house will be 

changed to the Trenton and the remodeling 

cost is expected to run to more than $100,000. 

HERNDON—A group of local businessmen 

have leased the Herndon Theatre from owner 

Henry Lego. A new front is being constructed 

and many other facilities will be installed. 

Terms of the lease were not revealed. 

FARMVILLE—Alvin Simmons, Neighborhood 

circuit city manager, recently put one 

of his war souvenirs to use in exploiting 

"Battleground." The souvenir is a large Nazi 

banner placed on the theatre front. 

NEWPORT NEWS — Pormer Monogram 

salesman William E. Jasper has taken over 

management of the Dixie. 

Columbia Retitles Film 

NEW YORK—"Prightened City" is the new 

title for Columbia's "The Killer That Stalked 

New York." recently completed with Evelyn 

Keyes, Charles Korvin and William Bishop 

heading the cast. 

Community Leadership 

Stressed by Rembusch 

CHICAGO—Trueman Rembusch, president 

of Allied States Exhibitors Ass'n, 

declared emphatically at the 20th Century-Fox 

merchandising conference here 

Wednesday (8) that exhibitors should occupy 

a prominent place in community 

life. 

On his circuit, he said, managers are 

given salaries which enable them to associate 

with community leaders and they 

get bonuses for good business. 

Manassas Pitts Theatre 

Destroyed by Flames 

MANASSAS, VA.—The Pitts Theatre here 

was destroyed by fire Tuesday (14) and fire 

companies were called from eight nearby 

towns when a high wind threatened to spread 

the flames to other buildings in the downtown 

business district. An alarm was turned 

in at 11:05 p. m., after the theatre had closed 

for the night. 

A preliminary estimate by firemen placed 

damage to the theatre at more than $25,000. 

A restaurant, appliance store and a women's 

wear shop in the same block were damaged 

by water. 

Firefighters came from Nokesville, Warrenton, 

Gainesville, Ti-iangle, Herndon, Chantilly 

and Fairfax and a chemical wagon was 

dispatched from Washington. Cause of the 

fire was not disclosed. The Pitts was operated 

by Pitts Theatres, Inc., of Fredricksburg, Va. 

Richmond Showmen Asked 

To Meeting of 20th-Fox 

RICHMOND—All exhibitors in this area 

have received an invitation from Glenn Norris, 

20th Century-Pox Washington manager, 

to attend a one-day meeting at 9:30 a. m. 

March 21 at the Washington hotel in Washington. 

A practical plan will be laid before 

exhibitors for increasing audience attendance 

through showmanship and merchandising 

ideas compiled by 20th-Pox. 

A report on the recent Chicago showmanship 

meeting will be made. Those attending 

will be guests at luncheon and dinner and 

a sneak preview will be held later in the 

evening. It is expected that a very large 

number of exhibitors from this part of the 

state will attend. 

Model Planes Displayed 

For 'High' in Hopewell 

HOPEWELL, VA. — In order to exploit 

"Twelve O'clock High," Frank Bowling, Beacon 

manager, obtained the cooperation of a 

local airport and air scout troop by having 

them setup a lobby display. From the airport 

he received a large propeller and two 

landing skis for display. Members of the 

air scouts displayed model airplanes which 

they constructed. Two air scouts were stationed 

in the lobby diu-ing the picture's two 

day performance. 

To Urge Films for Safety 

NEW YORK—The Greater New York 

Safety council will urge the use of motion 

pictures in accident prevention campaigns, 

when the 20th annual safety convention is 

held here March 28-31. Educators, safety experts 

and traffic authorities will be shown 

safety films at the Statler and Governor 

Clinton hotels, and council officials will stress 

their value in the field of accident prevention. 

Funeral for Mrs. Clawson 

GREENWICH, CONN.—Funeral services 

for Mrs. Minnie Mae Clawson, widow of Dr. 

Prank A. Clawson and mother of Mi-s. Andy 

W. Smith jr., wife of the 20th-Fox vicepresident 

and general sales manager, were 

held Pi-iday (17) at the Meadville Baptist 

church. Mrs. Clawson died March 14 at her 

home here. 

.}G BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950

. . 

. . Spike 

. . Morton 

Wrather to Produce 

Five During Year 

HOLLYWOOD—In a liaison between 

American and British financial sources. Producer 

Jack Wratlier has completed plans for 

the making- of five pictures during the coming 

year. As managing director of the new 

organization, Wrather will package each production 

with a name star, director and 

screenplay in Hollywood, this portion of the 

program to be financed by himself and the 

investment house of Schroeder-Rockefeller 

of New York. 

British financiers will supply the remainder 

of each production budget up to the total 

number of pounds required and the five features 

will be produced in England. Wrather 

said. The producer and oil tycoon, whose 

last film venture was "Guilty of Treason," 

made in association with Robert S. Golden 

for Eagle Lion release, has just returned from 

London, where he conferred with Associated 

British-Pathe. the private investment organization 

of John Woolf and J. Arthur 

Rank, the participation of all three of which 

is now under consideration. 

Four of the five will be photographed in 

Technicolor. Tlie initialer is being shaped 

for an August start, with Wrather and the 

Schroeder-Rockefeller firm owning 100 per 

cent of western hemisphere rights and British 

interests controllmg eastern hemisphere 

rights on all productions. 

Review Board Conference 

To Discuss 1950 Films 

NEW YORK—"The Motion Picture 1950" 

has been selected as the subject of the 41st 

anniversary conference of the National Board 

of Review to open March 23 at the Hotel Mc- 

Alpin. according to Quincy Howe, president. 

An attendance is expected of more than 400 

delegates from the motion picture coimcils 

and other affiliated organizations in the U.S. 

and of representatives from the 25 national 

organizations in the assembly of the board, 

which was organized in March 1909 by the 

People's Institute to represent public interest 

in films. 

Emphasis this year will be on the production 

and exhibition of films. Speakers will 

be Maurice Bergman, public relations director. 

Universal-International; Bertram Bloch. 

eastern story editor. 20th Century-Fox; Arthur 

DeBra. community relations director; 

MPAA; Jo.seph Lerner. executive vice-president. 

Laurel Films; H. M. Richey, exhibitor 

relations director. MGM. and George J 

Schaefer. general sales manager, Stanley 

Kramer Pi-oductions. 

Council delegates will take part in a morning 

panel March 24 on community activities, 

and in the afternoon they will attend a special 

20th Century-Fox screening. 

'Volcano' Ready in April 

NEW YORK— Motion Picture Sales Corp. 

will release "Volcano." the Italian-made film 

starring Anna Magnani. in mid-April, .shortly 

after Mi.ss Magnani's arri\%l in the U.S. 

William Dieterle, the director, has been holding 

conferences on the coast with Charles L. 

Casanave. MPSC executive vice-president, 

and last-minute dubbing and editing will be 

completed so that the star can make personal 

appearances here in conjunction with its 

showing. 

RICHMOND 

Phe Colonial gave Academy award winner 

"The Red Shoes" an entire week at popular 

prices. It has been reported that large 

crowds are attending, contrasting the sparseness 

of the audience when it was shown previously 

at roadshow prices . . . Dusty Shaver 

carried liis cowboy entertainers. Tlie Tobacco 

Valley Gang, to the Patrick Henry for a 

The Broadway Di-ivo-In is giving 

show . . . 

away a free Packard, through a tiein with 

Mooers Motor Co. 

The Bellwood Drive-In, which gave away 

free passes to patrons guessing the opening 

date, opened with "Sorrowful Jones" on 

March 9 . . . The National awarded a $100 

war savings bond for the best letter of 50 

words or less on what makes "The Fallen 

Idol" a great motion picture when the film 

had its recent showing at that house. 

Neighborhood Theatres, Inc., recently distributed 

loose-leaf manuals to all of its managers. 

The manuals include all pha.ses of 

theatre operation and should prove to be 

very helpful to Neighborhood employes . 

Bing Crosby day will be observed in Front 

Royal April 1. when a newly lighted athletic 

field will be dedicated in his honor. Another 

highlight of the day is the premiere showing 

of Bing's latest release. "Riding High," which 

will be .shown in the Park at 8:30 p. m. 

Tickets for the premiere are being alloted 

to the highest bidders. 

Roland L. Somers is building a 500-car 

drive-in on Market street in Onancock. Va. 

Neighborhood circuit district managers 

. . . 

met at the home office March 14 ... A new 

candy stand has been installed in the National 

The Dixie 

by Berlo Vending Co. . . . Drive-In opened March 15. 

Jerry Adams, MGM manager in Washington, 

visited Sam Bendheim. Neighborhood 

circuit general manager . . Horace Freeman, 

. 

a.ssistant to A. O. Budina, 

Neighborhood 

SUPPOKT KKD tROS(>—The current 

drive of the .American Red Cross is being 

supported by Loew's State Theatre in 

New York, where "The Kxpcctant Kather," 

one of the series of "This Is .America" 

shorts, is playing. Shown in the accompanying 

picture. Ii-ft to right, are .Arnold 

Slang, who is fratured in the film; Mrs. 

William Propos, vice-chairman of the 

New York chapter, and Sam Pearlman, 

manager of the theatre. 

architect, was sick for a few days . . . Jimmy 

Ritchie, manager of the East End and Patrick 

Henry tlieatres, recently was in North 

Carolina visiting relatives. 

Howard S. Rubin, Neighborhood district 

manager, was a recent visitor . G. 

Thalhimer jr., who has been with the Century 

and Shea circuits, has been named aide 

to Sam Bendheim. Neighborhood Theatres 

general manager . Jones and his entire 

company will appear at the Mo.sque April 

9 . . . The Richmond Opera group will offer 

"The Three Musketeers" at the WRVA Theatre. 

March 21-24 . . . Amparo Iturbi. sister 

of actor Jose Iturbi, will be guest artist with 

the Symphony orchestra at the Mo.sque March 

29 . . . Birthday greetings to Ivan Rosenbaum, 

Neighborhood circuit head booker. 

Orchestra Leader Plans 

Drive-In for Concerts 

NEW YORK—Young pianist-conductor 

Ezra Rachlui. former conductor of the Austin, 

Tex., symphony orchestra, will open this 

area's first musical drive-in theatre somewhere 

on Long Island this summer. Rachlin. 

convinced that motorists will park their cars 

and pay a few dimes to hear good music by 

a good orchestra, said he would model the 

outdoor auditorium after one over which he 

presided last summer in Austin. 

There, he said, he charged $1.50 a car regardless 

of the number of occupants. He said 

at his first performance he was startled by 

the applau.se—loud blastings of horns. 

"I'd forgotten that I was playing to an audience 

who had right at their fingertips factory-made 

means of applause," he said. 

Rachlin. who has been playing piano since 

the age of five, became a conductor ten years 

ago. He has conducted the Philadelphia 

Opera company and has performed at Heidelberg, 

Berlin, Munich, Copenhagen and London. 

Korda Plans Trip to N.Y. 

For Selznick Action 

NEW YORK—Sir Alexander Korda will 

arrive from London about the first of April 

to testify before Robert P. Patter.son. special 

arbitrator in the Korda-David O. Selznick 

dispute over distribution rights on "Gone 

to Earth." Michael Powell, who produced the 

film in conjunction with Emeric Pressburger, 

may also come to New York to give testimony. 

.Selznick was given the U.S. distribution 

: !its to "Gone to Earth" and "The Third 

\: in in exchange for Korda's eastern hemisphere 

" 

rights to Selznick's "Portrait of Jen- 

" 

nie" and "The Paradlne Case." Selznick has 

charged that Korda made "unauthorized 

changes" in "Gone to Earth" which will damage 

the professional standing of hLs wife, 

Jennifer Jones, who is starred. Judge Patterson 

has viewed a rough black-and-white 

version of the Technicolor film in order to 

decide whether or not It adheres to the 

.screenplay. 



Do it today. 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950 47

. . George 

. . Thieves 

. . Howard 

B U F F A L O 

lyrax Rosing has resigned as manager of 

Shea's Elmwood and now is associated 

' 

with his brother George in the operation of 

the Roosevelt Theatre, owned by the Rosing 

family and one of the largest of the eastside 

community theatres. Max has been at Shea's 

Elmwood for almost eight years. George will 

do the buying and booking under the new 

setup at the Roosevelt. 

Murray Whiteman, assistant chief barker 

of the Variety Club here, is back after a 

month's stay in Hot Springs. He attended a 

board of directors meeting in the club's 

Delaware avenue headquarters, called by 

Chief Barker Elmer F. Lux to discuss plans 

for the annual summer picnic and golf party. 

Lux reports that the recent gin rummy tournament 

was a big success. The club's big 

St. Patrick's party was held Saturday (18) 

instead of Friday as originally planned. 

Elmer F. Lux, general manager of Darnell 

Theatres, back in Buffalo from a trip to West 

Virginia, says his company has engaged Mike 

DeAngelis of Rochester to design a new theatre 

to be built on the site of the Appalachian 

Theatre which recently was burned to the 

ground in Appalachia, W. Va. 

City officials, leaders of veteran units and 

a marine color guard participated in ceremonies 

at the opening of "Sands of Iwo 

Jima" at Schine's Auburn theatre. The 

mayor of Auburn issued a proclamation pro- 

WALTER READE, JR.— Walter 

Reade Theatres, New York, N. Y. 

— says: 

"An investment in RCA Service 

is the best insurance we 

know offor top quality sound." 

To get the benefits of RCA Servicewrite: 

RCA SERVICE COMPANY, 


Camden, N. J. 

claiming Iwo Jima week . H. Mackenna 

was pleased with the big Sattler department 

store ad appearing in the papers 

and featuring a large photo of the Lafayette 

Theatre site. It was an institutional ad that 

sought to get shoppers out Broadway to the 

big east side store. 

Harry Greenman, manager of the Capitol, 

New York, was here recently for a funeral. 

Harry is a former local resident, having been 

a theatre manager here before taking an 

exhibitor post in Pittsburgh from which he 

went to the Capitol in Gotham. Harry visited 

several Filmrowers while here. 

"I believe that we are the only film club in 

America run on a democratic basis," said 

Frank Leahy, director of the Oswego, N. Y., 

Film club, the other day. "And, perhaps," 

he added, "one of the best answers to communism 

is to expand our own definitions of 

democracy." Six programs will be shown on 

as many Sunday nights. Among the films 

to be shown before the group are "Great 

Expectations," "Shoe-Shine," "Grand Illusion," 

"Volpone," "The Quiet One" and "Stairway 

to Heaven." 

Jack Walsh, projectionist at the Paramount, 

returned to Buffalo after attending 

the big dinner in New York in honor of 

Dick Walsh. Jack is assistant business agent 

. . . 

John 

of the Buffalo operators' union 

Zimmerman, manager of the Niagara, a Paramount 

community house and a member of 

the police department by day, is active in 

the campaign to help get a 40-hour week for 

Buffalo policemen. 

A thief secreted himself in the Rialto and 

stole $18 from a petty cash drawer in the 

office and about $35 from a candy machine. 

It was the third robbery in ten days here. 

The Allendale and Little Hippodrome also 

were entered by burglars . . Eddie Miller, 

. 

manager of the Center, installed a long playing 

record machine in the lobby a week in 

advance of the showing of "Young Man With 

a Horn," on which he used hits from the picture 

by Doris Day and Harry James. Eddie 

also staged a special screening for disk jockeys 

and record department folks and got out 

window streamers plugging the new Columbia 

album and the picture. 

When "Battleground" was shown at the 

Babcock in Bath, N. Y., Manager Harold C. 

Lee invited a number of relatives of James 

Whitmore to attend the presentation. It seems 

AID SISTER KENNY FUND—The 

western New York Sister Kenny foundation 

has received a check for $1,652.71 

from the war activities fund of Buffalo 

theatres. Robert T. Murphy, managing 

director for the 20th Century Theatre, 

left, former chairman of the fund, is 

shown here presenting the check to 

George H. Mackenna, general manager 

of Basil's Lafayette and Kenny foundation 

treasurer. The group also voted 

$500 to the Will Rogers Memorial fund 

created by Variety Club. 

Purchase of the former Hi-Art Theatre 

Jack Carson, Robert Alda and Janis Paige property and adjoining buildings in Lockport, 

N. Y., from the John J. Lanigan estate, 

were here on the stage of the Paramount in 

a big revue. In connection with the show has been made by Joseph Kendzie. The estate the star has many relatives in the area. His 

Billy Keaton at WGR sought Buffalo's most includes store space occupied by W&J Kelly parents are natives of Addison, N. Y., but 

beautiful girl to appear at each performance market. The sale price is not disclosed. Fire now reside in Buffalo . 

Carroll, 

with Carson. A committee selected six girls destroyed the Hi-Art in January 1949 while Rochester exhibitor, was a Pilmrow visitor. 

and from these six, Carson selected the girl it was under lease to the Schine circuit. While here, he dined with James H. Eshelman, 

district manager for Paramount Theatres. 

Howard now is making plans for the 

to appear in the revue. One hundred dollars 

was the prize for the winner. 

reopening of his big race track in the west 

this spring. 

Bill Dipson, Robert Hayman, Sid Kallet, 

Elmer Lux and Tom Walsh, prominent Buffalo 

area theatremen, returned from the 

20th-Fox meeting in Chicago packed with 

enthusiasm for the future of the industry . . . 

Al Pierce, manager of Shea's Bellvue in 

Niagara Falls, continues to get some good 

publicity in big ads used by the town's north 

end merchants. Al offers guests tickets as 

William Brett, president of 

William P. Rosenow, head of the Screen 

Guild here, will become a 32nd degree Scottish 

Rite Mason . 

prizes. 

. . 

Skyway Drive-In Theatres, of which Rosenow 

is secretary, has returned from a motor 

George H. Mackenna, manager, Basil's Lafayette, 

will be among theatremen going on 

trip to South Carolina where he visited relatives 

George H. Gammel, head of the 

the annual cruise of the Greater Buffalo 

Advertising club to the Royal Muskoka late 

. . . 

Gammel circuit and president of the MPTO 

in June. It will be a four-day jaunt. 

of western New York, is expected back soon 

from a vacation in Florida and the southland. Friends of Leonard B. Sang, former Buffalo 

theatre manager, will be interested to 

know that he now is manager of the Lyceum 

Theatre in New York. Leonard managed several 

theatres here at one time. He has been 

associated with Shubert theatres many years 

stole $5 worth of candy from a 

case, pried open a popcorn machine and 

smashed the boxoffice window at the Little 

Hippodrome Theatre here recently. Police 

said the front door of the downtown house 

was forced. 


repeal of the »nfair amusement tax? 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE 

Screen Coating and Masking Paint. Promiil Sliijnnent 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. 

,

. . 

. . Prank 

. . "Samson 

. . 

Hustle for Patrons, 

W6 Zone Men Told 

ALBANY— Seventy per cent of the drop 

in receipts can be attributed to inertia, which 

must be overcome by aggressive, alert, imaginative 

merchandising of pictures. Manager 

Charles A. Smakwitz, Warner zone, declared 

at a district meeting of managers in the 

local offices Monday. Men from Utica, Troy 

and Albany were present. Smakwitz held a 

similar session at the Hotel Statler in Buffalo 

Thursday. Ralph Crabill. western district 

manager, presided there. Pi-oduct of all 

companies was discussed, means of selling 

them were analyzed and theatre operations 

were considered. 

Smakwitz called for an allout effort to get 

business. "It's there if we hustle and bring 

it in," he commented. "We can't sit tight 

and wait for patronage to flow in. The product 

is fine —just as good as years ago. Our 

prices are low. Wliere else can you have as 

much enjoyment for so little money in such 

comfortable surroundings? Movies are the 

poor man's entertainment. We have to keep 

pounding at that point, creating a desire 

by him to see them regularly. The grass is 

just as green here as it seems to be 50 or 100 

miles away." 

The Warner zone boss stressed the importance 

of keeping down expenses. He pointed 

out they had continued high while grosses 

dropped. Smakwitz stated: "Television and 

drive-ins are not serious competition. Tlie 

Aldrich and other surveys .show business is 

off the same percentage in areas which have 

television and those which do not have it. 

The same holds true of drive-ins; they are 

not competition to indoor theatres." 

Smakwitz commented that the weekly income 

in many homes has been cut, because 

fewer of its members are working. This not 

only directly affects them but indirectly affects 

relatives and friends. A feeling of uncertainty 

develops and people begin to conserve 

on spending. Smakwitz believes the 

coal strike hurt theatre patronage. 

Present at the meeting were Jim Faughnan. 

contact manager; Max Friedman, buyer; Joe 

Weinstein. booker; Gerry Atkin. zone director 

of exploitation and advertising; Al La 

Flamme, Oscar Perrin and Herb Jennings. 

Albany managers; Andy Roy, Utica city manager: 

George Laurie and Jack Breslin, Utica; 

Sid Summers, Troy city manager; Joe Stowell 

and Jack Swarthout, Ti-oy. 

H. L. Ripps Transferred 

To New Area by MGM 

ALBANY—Herman L. Ripps. assistant 

MGM division sales manager in the Albany. 

Boston. Buffalo and New Haven territories, 

will go to New York next week as supervisor 

of sales in the metropolitan and New Jersey 

areas. He will continue to work under Jack 

Byrne, eastern division manager. 

Ripps came here as a salesman for MGM 

in 1934 and remained until 1939, when he was 

transferred to the metropolitan New York 

and upper New Jersey territory. He returned 

here as branch manager in 1941 and subsequently 

was advanced to district manager and 

later to assistant division manager. He 

served one term as chief barker of the Variety 

Club. He will not be replaced here, but 

here more frequently. 

Byrne will visit 

ALBANY 

^he Midtown Theatre, Syracuse, which plays 

domestic and foreign art films, has been 

purchased from jack Zurick and Otto Cratzner 

by Vance Schwartz, 

president of Distinctive 

Theatres Corp. The 

circuit operates hou.scs 

in Cincinnati, Columbus 

and Dayton, Ohio, 

and the Midtown is its 

initial eastern house 

. . . Arthur Newman, 

manager 

Republic 

here, and his wife, who 

has been convalescing 

after a recent operation, 

Vance Schwartz 

went to Atlantic 

City for a vacation . 

Albany area theatremen who attended the 

20th-Fox film merchandising meeting in 

Chicago included Harry Lamont, Lamont 

Theatres president; Sid Kallet, circuit chief 

film buyer, Oneida: Louis W. Schine, Gus 

Lampe, Seymour L. Morris and Bill Kraemer. 

Schine circuit, Gloversville, and Dan Houlihan, 

local 20th-Fox manager. 

Circuit house managers are making sure 

that reserve stocks of candy, popcorn and 

cigarets are kept under lock and key. It was 

said recent robberies have induced extra 

caution. A close check is being maintained 

on all conce.ssion stock by managers and 

attendants. 

Abe Dickstcin, UA district manager, attended 

the Variety Club dinner Monday 

night while enroute to the Schine circuit offices 

in Gloversville. Dick Perry, salesman 

Will Yolen Joins Laurel 

As Ad-Publicity Head 

NEW YORK—Will Yolen. New York and 

Hollywood public relations man. has joined 

Laurel Films as vice-president in charge of 

advertising and publicity, according to Rex 

Carlton. Laurel president. He first will publicize 

"Guilty Bystander." which is .set for 

the Globe Theatre in March, and will follow 

this with "Mr. Univer.se." which will be filmed 

in New York shortly. Yolen's motion picture 

background includes six years as promotion 

manager and special events director for 

Warner Bros. Previously, he was publicity 

director for the amusement area of the New 

York world's fair. 

Lees Co. Promotes Asher 

BRIDGEPORT. PA—Carlton R. Asher. 

market research manager for James Lees & 

Sons Co. since 1946, has been named advertising 

manager for the carpet division by 

Edwin C. Pease, director of promotion and 

research. Asher has been with Lees since 

1940, first in the sales department. 

Japan to Get U.S. Short 

NEW YORK— Emer.'on Yorke Studio, producers 

of the featurette "Little League Baseball," 

has signed a contract with the procurement 

agency of the U.S. signal corps for distribution 

of the film throughout Japan and 

the Ryukyus islands. A Japanese narration 

has been added. 

in the Albany territory, accompanied Dicksteln 

. . . Charles Feldman, new U-I division 

manager, made his first visit to the Albany 

territory, accompanied by Pete Dana, district 

manager. Gene Vogel. local manager, joined 

them at Syracuse. Feldman .served with U-I 

in the west before his promotion .several 

months ago. 

While business gro.ssed by "Stromboli 

" 

the Grand here was below expectations, local 

theatremen have been speculating on to what 

extent the ban imposed by Bishop Edmund 

F. Gibbons had on the gros.ses. The picture 

played here after much of the publicity regarding 

Ingrid Bergman had subsided. Most 

exhibitors here appear to believe that the ban 

had cut potential trade at the boxoffice 

. of the Grand and Delilah" 

registered smash business at the Strand in 

its first week, but trade dropped during the 

holdover week. In the opinion of many 

theatremen. Albany is not a "two-week" town 

for 

films. 

Charles A. Smakwitz, Warner zone manager, 

and Max Friedman, buyer and booker, 

attended a sales conference in New York . 

Harry Royster, .who has been Paramount- 

Publix district manager with headquarters in 

Poughkeepsie, is taking over the Colonial 

there and a theatre in Peekskill, according to 

a report here. Harold Greenberg. di.strict 

buyer and booker, is resigning to assume 

operation of .several hou.ses in Ohio and 

Kentucky . Wieting of the Park. 

Cobleskill. and Frank Violetti of the Van 

Buren. Cairo, were on Filmrow. 

New York Will Encourage 

Film Production for TV 

NEW YORK—New York City will sponsor 

a study of motion picture production here 

not only for general distribution but also 

for use by television, according to Mayor 

William O'Dwyer. It will be jointly conducted 

by the city commerce department 

and the Columbia University department of 

industrial engineering, and cover a number 

of industries. The deadline for its completion 

has been set for early 1951. 

Plans were described by Joseph V. Mc- 

Kee. commerce commissioner. They were developed 

by Fi'ank Lee Donoghue. city director 

of commerce; Herman Rapport, 

commerce department economi-st; Dr. Robert 

Teviot Livingston, executive officer of 

the Columbia industrial engineering department, 

and Dr. David Bendel Herz, assistant 

profe.ssor at Columbia. Dr. Livingston 

will be chief con.suUant. 

The study will take in all five boroughs. 

Small business men will be able to obtain 

specific advice on many management 

problems. 

'Clochemerle' to Siritzky 

NEW YORK Sintzky Inlernalional Pictures 

has acquired "The ScandaLs of Clochemerle," 

French-language feature produced by 

Cinema-Productions, for distribution in the 

U.S. Felix Oudart. Armontel and Simone 

Michels are starred. The picture will open at 

the Ambassador Theatre March 27. 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950 N 48-A 

at

NEW INCORPORATIONS 

Lippert Pictures Distributing Co.: To conduct 

business in Buffalo: capital stock, 200 

shares, no par. 

Transqueens Theatres: New York: capital 

stock. 100 shares, no par. 

Theatrical Directories: 1015 Chestnut St., 

Philadelphia, recorded certificate of its New 

York offices are at 1650 Broadway. Albert 

D. Rottner is president. Capital stock, 3000 

shares. 

Emperor Films: Motion picture productions 

in New York; capital stock. $20,000, $1 par. 

Incorporators: Fifield Workum, Bedford: 

Alexander R. Ormond, E. Orange, N. J.; 

Percy T. Willette, Richmond Hill. 

Council Films: Motion picture production 

in Homer: capital stock, $100,000, $100 par. 

Incorporators: Roger C. Marmon and Georgene 

S. Marmon, Homer: Russell T. Watts, 

West Shore Rd., Ithaca. 

Pentagon Pictures Corp.: Productions in 

New York: capital stock, $20,000, $100 par 

value. 

Oceanside Amusement Co., Inc.: Oceanside: 

capital stock, 100 shares, no par. 

Animated Productions: Motion pictures and 

advertising: 150 shares, no par. Incorporators: 

Alvin Stahl, 1600 Broadway: Roy M. 

Carstairs, 42 Broadway; Leslie Goldman, 

Flushing. 

Television Facilities Corp.: Radio and television: 

$100,000. $100 par. 

Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corp., reduced 

capital from 4,679,346 shares to 4,674,- 

569 shares, no par. 

Independent Motion Picture Machine Operators 

and Television Employes, Inc., membership 

group. 

Point Amusement Corp.: Amusement enterprises, 


Bijou Theatre: To conduct business in 

Troy; 500 shares, no par; directors, each 

owning one share, Charles F. Wilson, operator 

of the Bijou; his brother William and his 

sister, Mrs. Anna W. Weaver, all of Troy. 

Jet Films: Motion picture business in New 

York; 200 shares, no par. 

S&J Amusement: Theatrical, television and 

broadcast business in New York: 200 shares, 

no par: Samuel A. Zimbalist, 6755 B. 193rd 

Land. Flushing: Louis Johnson. 385 E. 18th, 

David Romanoff, 2049 20th Lane, Brooklyn. 

Broadway-Carlton Theatre Corp.: 100 

shares, no par: David L. Strumpf, Sarah 

Strumpf, 1001 Jerome Ave., Bronx, and Jerome 

Kornerich, 789 West End Ave. 

Sandy's Kiddie Club: Radio, television and 

motion pictures; 100 shares, no par: Alan 

Regensburg, V. R. Howland. 415 Lexington 

Ave. 

Perkins Theatre Supply Co.: Theatre equipment, 

public address systems, and television 

in Buffalo; 200 shares, no par. 

Coralye Theatre Corp.: Theatrical business 

in New York, 200 shares, no par. 

Horry Walders Is Named 

To Head UA in Chicago 

NEW YORK—Harry Walders has been 

named Chicago branch manager for United 

Artists, filling the post vacated when Nat 

Nathanson was promoted to eastern and 

Canadian general sales manager, according 

20th-Fox Plans $5,000,000 

For Studio Expansion 

NEW YORK—Just before leaving for 

Europe by plane early in the week Spyros 

P. Skouras, president of 20th Century-Fox, 

announced that the company would spend 

$5,000,000 on additional stages and other 

facilities at the coast studios to take care 

of an increasing production schedule. 

In 1951 the company will release 36 features 

and in 1952 the total will be 42 features. 

W. C. Michel, executive vice-president, returned 

recently from conferences with Darryl 

F. Zanuck, production head, on the expansion 

plans. 

Academy Ballots In, 

Program Being Sal 

HOLLYWOOD—It's all over but the counting—and 

the official presentation of Oscars 

to the winners. 

The deadline for voting on Academy 

Awards was March 14. and the task of tabulating 

the ballots was immediately begun by 

Price, Waterhouse, auditors for the Academy 

of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. 

Recipients of the statuettes will be announced 

at the 22nd annual Awards sweepstakes, 

to be held March 23 at the Pantages 

Theatre here. 

A parade of stars headed by Paul Douglas, 

who will function as master of ceremonies, 

will take turns in distributing the Oscars. 

The format for the show—created by Johnny 

Green, general executive in charge of production—will 

be similar to last year's event. 

President Charles Brackett of the Academy 

is scheduled to make the opening address. 

Stars in attendance will include such nominees 

as Jeanne Grain. Susan Hayward, Broderick 

Crawford, Ethel Barrymore, John Ireland, 

Olivia DeHavilland, John Wayne, Kirk 

Douglas, Dean Jagger, Celeste Holm. Richard 

Todd, Gregory Peck, Deborah Kerr, Loretta 

Young, Ralph Richardson, Elsa Lanchester, 

Arthur Kennedy, Mercedes McCambridge, 

James Whitmore and Ethel Waters. 

Coast-to-Coast Productions: To conduct 

Proceedings will be aired by the ABC network 

picture production business in New York: 200 

and the armed forces radio service, 

shares, no par. 

with a special before-the-show program to 

be carried from the Pantages forecourt via 

Mental Health Film Board: Nonprofit in to Paul N. Lazarus jr., executive assistant to station KFWB. 

New York. 

Gradwell L. Sears. 

In addition to Academy members, industry 

representatives and the press, the public 

Walders started in 

Visfex, 

the entertainment field 

Inc.: Motion picture business and 

in 

realty 

1923 

in New York: 

with the Western Vaudeville Managers 

Ass'n. From 1928 to 1932, he was with 


will be permitted to view the event, loge and 

balcony seats having been placed on sale at 

American Bazaar & Equipment Co.: Theatrical 

and amusement enterprises in Roches- 

booker. From 1932 to 1947 he was with the 

the Great States and Balaban & Katz as' a 

$9.60 and $6.00 each, respectively. 

ter, 100 shares, no par: George H. and Ethel RKO film exchange in Chicago as a booker 

Harms. 55 Willis, Rochester, and Benjamin and, later, a salesman. RKO promoted him to 

Paul, 2644 S. Prankhn. Philadelphia. 

Cleveland branch manager in 1947 and, in Nat'l Screen Dismisses 

1949, he joined Paramount's Chicago exchange 

as special sales representative. 

Avenue U Theatre Corp., Queens, dissolved. 

Nine in Art Department 

Brighton Theatre Corp. and Granada Theatre 

Corp., Kings, dissolved. 

ager in Washington. D. C, has resigned to the National Screen Service Corp. art de- 

G. P. Price, United Artists branch man- 

NEW YORK—Eight men and one girl in 

become general manager of the Glen Echo partment have been given notice of dismissal 

Seymour Zweibel Productions, Inc.: Motion Amusement Park on the outskirts of the effective March 20. Vincent Trotta. department 

picture and play production in New York: capital. His successor will be announced 

head, was one of the dismissed. He has 

capital stock, 200 shares, no par. 

Vatican Films: 200 shares, no par. 

shortly, Lazarus said. 

been an art director in the industry 35 years. 

Corporation officials refused to comment on 

reasons for the dismissals. The nine employes 

worked on lobby displays, posters, heralds 

and window cards for Warner Bros., 

Paramount and RKO. This work will be done 

temporarily by others in the department. 

Rita Moreno Makes Debut 

Rita Moreno, daughter of Edward Moreno, 

will make her film debut in Metro's "The 

Toast of New Orleans." 

Vincent Trotta said he and the others had 

no immediate prospects for employment. He 

has been with National Screen for ten years. 

He did the advertising art work on "The 

Squaw Man," the first release of Paramount's 

predecessor company. 

Eric Johnston to Receive 

Honorary NYU Degree 

NEW YORK—Eric Johnston, president of 

the Motion Picture Ass'n of America, will receive 

an honorary degree at the New York 

university as doctor of commercial science 

and finance. The presentation will be made 

at the 50th anniversary dinner April 10. 

Johnston spoke during the week before college 

groups in Boston and Providence. 

48-B BOXOFFICE :: March 18. 1950

- 

, _ . . 

UA Video Program 

Starts in 16 Cities 

NEW YORK—"Women in the News." 

United Artists Television's newest release, 

made its debut in 16 cities this week, according 

to John Mitchell. UA television director. 

The program, a 15 -minute weekly 

woman's newsreel featuring Adelaide Hawley, 

was produced especially for TV by AU- 

American News in Chicago. 

Among the stations and sponsors participating 

in "Women in the News" are: Fresherator, 

WNBQ. Chicago: KTTV. Los Angeles: 

KGO. San Francisco: WEWS. Cleveland: 

WJBK. Detroit: Baker's Department 

Store. WTCN. Minneapolis: B. Forman & 

Co., WHAM, Rochester: Gimbel Bros.. 

WTMJ.. Milwaukee; Holmes Department 

Store. WDSU. New Orleans: WBZ, Boston: 

WBAL, Baltimore: WRGB, Schenectady: 

WMAL, Washington, D. C: WSB. Atlanta, 

and WDAF. Kansas City. 

"Kieran's Kaleidoscope." the TV .show 

starring John Kieran. has been made into a 

52-week quarter-hour film .series for television 

and will be distributed by United Artists-TV. 

Contracts were signed by Mitchell, 

Kieran and Paul F. Moss, producer of the 

video program, for International Tele-Film. 

Six MGM Features Booked 

Into 3 Broadway Houses 

NEW YORK—Six MGM pictures have been 

booked into three Broadway first rim theatres 

during the next five weeks, including two at 

the RKO Palace, the first MGM features to 

play there in the history of the house. 

Following "The Outriders," which opened 

March 8 at Loew's State, the theatre will play 

"Annie Get Your Gun" April 19. "Black 

Hand," which opened at the Capitol March 

11, will be followed by "The Yellow Cab Man" 

March 25 and "Nancy Goes to Rio" April 8. 

The Palace will open "Sidestreet" March 

23 and will play "Challenge to La.ssie" April 6. 

U-I Observes 35th Year 

Of Old Universal Studio 

HOLLYWOOD—Tribute was paid an industry 

landmark when Universal-International 

studios on March 15 observed the 35th 

anniversary of the formal opening of the old 

Universal plant in Universal City. More than 

a dozen employes who have been on the lot 

since it was dedicated by the late Carl 

Laemmle in 1915 gathered at the main administration 

building for ceremonies including 

the placing of a plaque on the structure, 

one of the first to be completed 35 years ago. 

Warners Will Tradeshow 

'Stage Fright' March 20 

NEW YORK—Warner Bros, will tradeshow 

Alfred Hitchcock's "Stage Fright" nationally 

March 20. The picture, which wa.s produced 

in England and stars Jane Wyman. Marlene 

Dietrich. Michael Wilding and Richard Todd, 

will be nationally distributed April 15. 

"Stage Fright" opened a prerelease engagement 

at the Radio City Music Hall February 

23. 



Chicago Newspapers Aid 

Showmanship Drive 

CHICAGO—Chicago daily newspapers arc 

giving a healthy assistance to the motion 

picture industry public relations promotions 

at the instigation of Balaban & Katz Corp., 

operators of a chain of theatres in the Chicago 

territory. 

Following the showman.ship conference 

held here recently by 20th Century-Fox. 

Balaban & Katz advertising and Publicity 

Director William K. Hollander solicited the 

papers requesting their cooperation in the 

campaign by publicizing the slogan, "Movies 

Are Better Than Ever." as a caption over 

all motion picture advertising columns and 

to use space-filler slugs in the advertising 

section carrying the same endorsement 

message. 

First to represent this gesture of cooperation 

to the industry was the Chicago Herald 

American, under the direction of Amusement 

Advertising Manager William Carroll, which 

is already publicizing the slogan. The Sun, 

Times and Daily News are scheduled to put 

Balaban & Katz's proposal into effect before 

the week is out. 

RKO's Board Completes 

Hollywood Sessions 

HOLLYWOOD—With the appointment of 

Ned E. Depinet. Noah Dietrich and How-ard 

Hughes as the company's new executive committee, 

the board of directors of RKO Radio 

completed a .series of meetings here and 

Depinet, president of the company, left for 

Indio, Calif., for a brief vacation before returning 

to his headquarters in New York. 

During the sessions Dietrich, executive vicepresident 

of the Hughes Tool Co., was elected 

board chairman. Hughes is, of course, managing 

director of production. 

Also participating in the huddles were 

Frederick L. Ehrman and L. Lawrence Green, 

board members: A. D. Simpson and Thomas 

A. Slack, elected members of the board to 

succeed J. Miller Walker and George H. 

Shaw. 

RKO to Play 'Cinderella' 

In 100 Spots for Easter 

NEW YORK—RKO Theatres will play Walt 

Disney's "Cinderella" in 90 to 100 metropolitan 

theatres during Easter week, despite 

the efforts of Harry Brandt to keep the 

feature in the Mayfair Theatre on Broadway 

through the Easter period and into May. 

Brandt had a four-week deal for the picture 

starting February 22, but the picture 

will have played at the Mayfair six and onehalf 

weeks before closing Easter Sunday. 

Business is holding up well at the Mayfair, 

but RKO and Walt Disney Prod, wanted to 

take advantage of the school holiday during 

Easter. 

Disney Prod, expects an eventual $5,000,000 

gross for "Cinderella." second only to the 

biggest Disney feature grosser, "Snow White 

and the Seven Dwarfs," which gro.ssed 

$6,000,000 after being released in 1937. 

Keyser Heads MPAA Group 

NEW YORK—Gerald R. Keyser. Warner 

Bros, publicity-advertising director, was 

elected chairman of the MPAA international 

film relations committee Thursday 16. succeeding 

Samuel Cohen, United Artists foreign 

publicity director, who served for one year. 

RESEARCH BUREAU 

for 

MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS 

ENROLLMENT FORM FOR THE INFORMATION 

The MODERN THEATRE 

PLANNING INSTITUTE 

825 Van Brunt Blvd. 

Kan.-â.s City 1, Mo. 

Gentlemen: 

Please enroll us in your RESEARCH BUREAU 

to receive inlormalion regularly, as released, on 

the following subjects for Theatre Planning: 

G Acoustics D Lighting Fixtures 

D Air Conditioning p| Plumbing Fixtures 

n Architectural Service , '-' 

J Projectors 

n "Black" Lighting 

n Projection Lamps 

Building Material 

n 

n Seating 

Carpets 

Q Coin Machines 

Q Signs and Marquees 

D Complete Remodeling ^ Sound Equipment 

n Decorating H Television 

D Drink Dispensers H Theatre Fronts 

n Drive-In Equipment iJ Vending Equipment 

Other Subjeds 

Theatre 

Seating Capacity 

Address 

City 

State 

Signed 

Postage-paid reply cords for your further convenience 

in obtaining informotion are provided in The MODERN 

THEATRE RED KEY SECTION (Nov. 19, 1949). 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18. 1950 48-C

Independents Also Aiding 

Foreign Producers Here 

NEW YORK—The action of the Motion 

Picture Ass'n of America in setting up an advisory 

committee to aid foreign producers 

in this country was followed during the week 

by the tentative formation of a similar organization 

by 50 independent distributoi-s and 

representatives of foreign producers. The 

statement of the new group, which has not 

yet selected its permanent name, said it will 

work closely with MPAA. 

LEADERS AND OBJECTIVES 

Final organization details are in the hands 

of Morris Helprin of London Films, elected 

temporary chairman: Lillian Gerard of Pathe 

Cinema, made acting executive secretary, and 

a policy planning committee consisting of 

Joseph Burstyn of Mayer-Burstyn, Jacques 

Chabrier of Pathe Cinema, Jack Ellis of 

Crest Films. Miss Gerard. J. H. Hoffberg of 

Hoffberg Productions, Helprin, Edward 

Kingsley of Oxford Films. Marty Levine of 

Distinguished Films. George Margolin of Continental 

Films, Ilya Lopert of Lopert Films. 

Irvin Shapiro of Films International and 

E. R. Zorgniotti of Lux Films. The next 

meeting will be held March 28. 

The group gave the following objectives; 

"Improvement of trade practices, expansion 

of outlets, setting-up of a clearinghouse 

of information available to distributors, exhibitors 

and producers, establishment of 

closer relations with foreign producers to 

acquaint them with the distribution problems 

of imported films, publication of reports and 

bulletins, and the launching of a public relations 

program to advance the interests of 

specialized films in this country." 

Its prepared statement further said: 

"Because of the increased number of films 

imported yearly, resulting from the expanding 

audiences and the development of an art 

circuit of theatres nationally since the war. 

the need for an international film association 

has arisen, and this newly formed group 

plans to fulfill this need, working closely 

with exhibitors and distributors throughout 

the country, producing companies abroad, and 

the MPAA." 

ADVISORY UNIT FUNCTIONS 

The MPAA advisory unit for foreign films 

is headed by B. Bernard Kreisler working under 

John G. McCarthy, vice-president in 

charge of international affairs. Its functions 

are to provide information for foreign-language 

producers and di-stributors 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 

give them information about good outlets for 

their films. Its services are offered originally 

to representatives of Italy, France, Mexico, 

Argentina, Sweden and Spain, but will be expanded 

later to include India and Germany 

and probably others. 

WE Declares Dividend 

NEW YORK—The board of directors of 

Western Electric Co. has declared a dividend 

of 75 cents per share on the outstanding 

capital stock, payable March 31 to stockholders 

of record March 22. 

Drastic Regulations 

Proposed by Malta 

NEW YORK—The little island of Malta 

in the Mediterranean has under consideration 

a bill providing for probably the most 

drastic restrictions on motion pictures of 

any place in the world. John G. McCarthy, 

Motion Picture Ass'n of America vice-president 

in charge of international affairs, called 

it an unwarranted infringement of the right 

to negotiate contracts and said he will protest 

to the U.S. State department. Representatives 

of the British industry made an 

emergency flight from London to Malta by 

plane to try to prevent passage of the bill, 

which would mean government domination 

of the industry. 

The belief both in Britain and the U.S. 

during the week was that if the bill becomes 

law, it will mean the end of all film imports. 

About 80 per cent of the films shown 

by the island's 30 theatres are American. 

The bill specifies a scale of percentages 

for the licensing of films, with a ban on all 

reissues and a minimum of a two-hour show 

including newsreels and short subjects. Distributors 

would provide newsreels, shorts and 

any publicity material gratis. Exhibitors and 

distributors would not be permitted to close 

contracts except in the presence of a government 

representative. 

An evaluation board would be set up to 

check on film quality and could fine offenders 

from 500 to 5,000 pounds for "inferior" product. 

Exhibitors would have the right to demand 

and receive any films they wanted. A 

board would be named by the government to 

pass on all trade disputes. 

German Permit Limitation 

Protested by Ellis Arnall 

NEW YORK—Ellis Arnall, president of the 

Society of Independent Motion Picture Producers, 

has protested to the U.S. State department 

and John J. McCloy, high commissioner 

of western Germany, a decision of 

the German ministry of commerce to limit 

to ten the number of feature import permits 

for all independent producers during the 

year. Ten major distributors have been alloted 

15 permits each. 

Arnall asked that the whole system of permits 

be thrown out of the window or that, 

at least, the independents be given a better 

break in the allotment of permits. McCloy 

has the power to kill any acts of the German 

government that run counter to Allied high 

command policy. This restriction would be 

especially hard on producers who want to 

make their own sales arrangements in Germany. 

United Artists, which handles independent 

product, is one of the distributors 

allowed 15 permits, 

Arnall probably will visit Germany after 

he joins with Eric Johnston, president of the 

Motion Picture Ass'n of America, in the London 

trade talks. 

'Misunderstandings' 

Clarified by SMPTE 

NEW YORK—The Society of Motion Picture 

and Television Engineers has issued a 

statement clarifying its position regarding 

current trends in motion pictures, theatre 

television and television broadcasting because 

of "recent public misunderstandings." 

The statement follows: 

"The society regards sound films as most 

desirable for public entertainment presentations. 

It urges the wide use of film programs 

wherever possible. In the field of 

theatre television, the society has no present 

preference for coaxial cable, radio relay or 

other methods of program distribution, nor 

does the society favor private program distribution 

systems as compared with common 

carrier systems, or vice versa. 

"SMPTE does, however, strongly support 

the idea that theatre television shall be 

granted equal opportunity to expand by making 

available to it any radio channels or 

other facilities it may reasonably require. 

"As regards use of film for television broadcasting, 

the society proposes that film producers 

study closely all new methods of film 

production, whether arising from television 

operations or otherwise, which may lead to 

economic and acceptable films for the theatre 

or for television broadcasting. The society 

also recommends the consideration of 

any methods of systematically coordinating 

production activities of film for theatre or 

television purposes, to the mutual benefit 

of these fields and of the producer." 

Hungarian Decree Forces 

Closing of MPEA Branch 

NEW YORK—The Motion Picture 

Export 

Ass'n has liquidated its branch in Hungary 

as a result of a government decree that all 

film licenses issued before this year be turned 

over to the ministry of education, making 

them inoperative. Irving A. Maas, vicepresident 

and general manager, said he had 

had no word from Budapest that any U,S. 

films have been seized. 

There has been no commercial MPEA activity 

in that iron curtain country for a long 

time, as stated in the March 11 issue of 

BOXOPFICE, but only scattered bookiogs 

from February 1948 to June 1949 of films 

already there. The closing of the branch 

came as no surprise. 

British Theatres Are Forced 

To Show Government Film 

LONDON—The British government is 

using for the first time the power granted 

it under the 1948 film act to force the exhibition 

of a film. It is "Chance of a Lifetime," 

a story of factory hands, produced by 

Pilgrim Pictures with financial aid from the 

National Film Finance Corp., governmentlending 

institution. 

Odeon, Gaumont and Associated British 

Picture Corp. all turned it down as lacking 

in entertainment value, but the Board of 

Trade film selection board said it had to be 

shown on one of the three big circuits. The 

circuits then drew lots and J. Arthur Rank's 

Odeon pulled the short straw. 


18-D BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18, 1950

NEWS 

HOLLYWOOD 

AND VIEWS THE PRODUCTION CENTER 

(Hollywood Office—Suite 219 at 6404 Hollywood Blvd.: Ivan Svear, Western Manager J 

John Larkin at Helm 

Of Charities Group 

HOLLYWOOD—A new set of officers and 

board of directors has been elected by the 

Permanent Charities committee, which, 

among its other activities, sparkplugs the 

annual United Appeal to raise funds among 

studio workers for apportionment to various 

charities. 

John Larkin, screenwriter, was named at 

the annual meeting to succeed Roy M. Brewer, 

lATSE executive, as president, with Edward 

Arnold and Regis Toomey unanimously reelected 

executive vice-president-treasurer and 

secretary, respectively. The new board comprises 

Toomey, representing the Screen Actors 

Guild; Fred S. Meyer. Ass'n of Motion 

Picture Producers; Carl G. Cooper, labor's 

executive committee; Sidney P. Solow, allied 

industries; Steve Broidy. Independent Motion 

Picture Producers Ass'n: George Marshall, 

Screen Directors Guild; Jennings Lang. 

Artists Managers Guild; Marvin A. Ezzell, 

Society of Independent Motion Picture Producers; 

and Arthur Sheekman. SWG. 

Y. Prank Freeman, Paramount vice-president 

and chairman of the fifth annual 

United Appeal, reported at the election meeting 

that a total of $1,205,000 was raised in 

the recent campaign. 

Alan Ladd and William Demarest are the 

stars of a trailer produced by Paramount for 

the United Cerebral Palsy Ass'n. which will 

launch a nationwide educational and fundraising 

campaign in May. The short, in 

which Ladd and Demarest di.scuss the upcoming 

drive, is .scheduled for exhibition in 

theatres throughout the U.S. 

Actress of Silent Films 

Dies in San Francisco 

SAN FRANCISCO — Marguerite De La 

Motte. star of silent films and leading lady 

in many of the films starring the late Etouglas 

Fairbanks sr., died here recently. Mi.ss 

De La Motte. 46. was admitted to St. F'rancis 

hospital for treatment. Death was attributed 

to cerebral thrombosis following an operation. 

She was a native of Duluth, Minn., and 

studied under the renowned dancer Mme. 

Anna Pavlowa. She made her film debut 

after Fairbanks saw her as the dance star 

of the prologue which opened the late Sid 

Grauman's theatre in Hollywood. 

Rites for John W. Mahn 

LOS ANGELES—Requiem mass was celebrated 

here for John W. Mahn, 71, motion 

picture sound effects technician. Burial was 

in Calvary cemetery. 

2,006 Votes Challenged 

By Carpenters Local 

HOLLYWOOD— It will be a matter of six 

months, possibly longer, before an official 

answer is forthcoming to the question of 

which AFL union represents carpenters working 

in the .studios. That was the prediction 

of qualified observers when a staggering total 

of 2.006 votes was challenged at the March 8 

election conducted under supervision of the 

National Labor Relations Board, at which 

carpenters cast their ballots for the Studio 

Carpenters Local 946. United Brotherhood of 

Carpenters and Joiners, or the lATSE. 

Investigation of the challenged ballots has 

been undertaken by the NLRB office here, 

the results, when completed, to be forwarded 

to the parent NLRB in Washington. The 

NLRB itself challenged 1.296 votes, while 

710 others were challenged by Local 946 on 

the grounds they were cast by men "discriminately 

employed" in alleged violation of the 

Taft-Hartley act. 

AIRLINE CONTEST WINNER—Pretty 

Dona Lee. American .Virlines stewardess, 

receives the congratulations of Dore 

Schary, MGM vice-president in rharge 

of production, after she was declared the 

winner in a studio-sponsored contest 

whereby 150 stewardesses employed by the 

airline submitted letters drtailine their 

personal experiences on regular fliKhts. 

Miss Lee's letter will be used in connection 

with an upcoming >IOM film. "Three 

CJuys Named .'Vlike." in which I.ana Turner 

will portray an airline stewardess. 

Contest judges were Kenneth MacKenna, 

executive in charge of the MGM story 

department; .Vrniand Deutsch. who will 

produce "Three Cluys Named Mllte." and 

Sidney .Sheldon, who is writing the 

screenplay. 

Meantime a decision was momentarily expected 

in one of the issues at stake in three 

lawsuits -filed by the carpenters brotherhood 

against the major producers and the lATSE. 

as a ruling by a federal circuit court of appeals 

here was being awaited at midweek 

on the question of whether union members 

have a right to sue employers under the 

Taft-Hartley act. The carpenters, in a multimillion-dollar 

action against the lA and major 

producers, charge the two defendants 

conspired to replace Local 946 carpenters 

with lA workers in a "ma.ss lockout" during 

the 1946 studio strike. 

On the heels of a recent "intelligence report" 

from the Screen Actors Guild directorate 

to the memlDership. citing that the organization's 

most pressing current problem 

is unemployment, the seriousness of that situation 

was underscored when an SAG tally 

revealed extensive cutbacks in the number 

of thespians under studio contract since 1947. 

On March 1 of this year, the report disclosed. 

315 players were under term contract 

in the industry, a decrease of 371 from the 

peak year of 1947. The figures compri.se 183 

masculine and 132 feminine personalities but 

do not Include Juveniles under 14 years of 

age. 

The decline. SAG spokesmen declared, is 

attributable chiefly to sharp economies being 

effected by studio chiefs, clearly indicating 

a trend toward picturc-by-plcture deals, 

rather than term commitments, as a means 

of cutting down overhead. 

Screen Writers Guild has launched a move 

to introduce for congressional consideration 

a "lean years" bill seeking a revision of tax 

laws to spread Income taxes for film scriveners 

over their estimated average earning period, 

rather than year-by-year. 

The SWG recently completed an industrywide 

survey which, the organization claims, 

establishes that the "average" Hollywood 

writer, because of "inequitable" tax structures, 

is "less fortunate than the butcher, 

the baker or candlestick maker." A .screenplay 

writer's profe.ssional life, it contends, is 

about ten years, at 20 week-s of work annually, 

and his average total earnings are 

$67,000. However, he pays extremely high 

income taxes during lush years and the tax 

laws "deny him the right of declaring capital 

gains." resulting in heavy losses during 

the lean years which he may experience. 


" 

STUDIO PERSONNELITIES 

Blurbers 

Lippert 

Added to the adverlismg-publicity department, 

headed by Marty Weiser, were JOHN DEL VALLE, 

lunctioning as a field man, and BEN POLLOCK, 

who will be attached to the advertising stall 

Briefies 

RKO Radio 

Signed to direct the next two leaturettes stcnring 

Gary Gray and the dog Flame, was Richard Irving. 

George Bilson produces the series 

"Photo Phonies," a two-reeler leaturing Wally 

Erown and Jack Kirkwood, went before the catneias 

with Les Goodwins directing and George Bilson 

producing. Th^ suppor.ing cast includes Billie Bird, 

Hay Walker, Emil Sitka, lim Ryan, lack Rice, Lynn 

Davies, John Hamilton. Abe Dinovitch and William 

Lewin. 

Cleifers 

Columbia 

OZIE WATERS and his COLORADO RANGERS, 

western recording stars, have been inked for appearances 

in "Streets ol Ghost Town." 

Assigned to write the scores lor "The Petty Girl" 

and "Convicted" was GEORGE DUNING. 

Lippert 

FERDE GROFE was signed to do the musical score 

lor "Rocketship X.M. 

Monogram 

Producer Hal E. Chester inked EDWARD KAY to 

provide the musical score lor "Joe Palooka in 

Humphrey Takes a Chance " 

Meggers 

Columbia 

DAVID MILLER was signed by Sidney Buchman 

Enterprises to meg "The Hero," to be produced by 

Buddy Adler. 

Paramount 

ROBERT WELCH draws the production reins on 

"Dear Mom," next in the "Dear Ruth" and "Dear 

Wife" series. 

Options 

Columbia 

VIOLA ROACH, stage actress, has been set for 

a character lead in the loan Crawford starrer, "The 

Lady ol the House." 

BILLY DANIELS, singer and recording artist, was 

signed lor "When You're Smiling," musical to be 

produced by Jonie Taps. Spotted as the romantic 

male lead was JEROME COURTLAND. 

fnked for the feminine lead in the Charles Starrett- 

Smiley Burnette western, "Streets of Ghost Town," 

was MARY ELLEN KAY. Ray NoZarro megs for 

Producer Colbert Clark. Inked lor a leatured role 

was DON "Little Brown Jug" REYNOLDS. Also 

signed was FRANK FENTON. 

ANTHONY QUINN, stage and screen actor, was 

cast lor a major role for "The Brave Bulls." 

Assigned to the Jon Hall vehicle. "On the Isle 

ol Samoa," was actor-director FRED SEARS. 

Eagle 

Lion 

Jack Schwarz Productions inked BILL HENRY, PA- 

MELA BLAKE and ROBERT SHAYNE for the leading 

roles in "Narcotic Agent," to be directed by Robert 

Tansey. Also inked were MOVITA and LYLE TALBOT. 

Metro 

Signed lor a featured role with Lana Turner and 

Ray Milland in "A Life of Her Own" was PAT 

DANE. George Cukor megs for Producer Voldemar 

Vetluguin. 

Signed to a term contract and handed a role in 

"The Tender Hours" was GARY GRAY. 12-year-old 

actor. 

'Signed lor a key role in "Kim" was singer-actor 

RICHARD HALE. 

Singer VIC DAMONE makes his film debut in 

"They All Sing," a Robert Z. Leonard production 

Barnstormers 

Columbia 

GENE AUTRY ivas slated to return March 16 alter 

a nine-weelc personal appearance lour which covered 

67 cities in 29 states and three Canadian provm 

which Frank Sinatra, Jimmy Durante and Mickey 

Rooney ploy themselves. 

DICK SIMMONS was assigned to "Standofi." Also 

signed were SAM LEVENE, LEON AMES and HAL 

FIEBERUNG. 

Monogram 

MARJORIE LORD was handed the leading femme 

role opposite Johnny Shettield in "Bomba and the 

Lost Volcano." DONALD WOODS, PETER MILES 

and DON HARVEY were cast in the film which 

Ford Beebe directs for Producer Walter Minsch. 

Also set for the picture was ELENA VERDUGO. 

Casting for "Joe Palooka in Humphrey Takes a 

Chance" was completed with the signing of TOM 

NEAL, TIM RYAN, GIL LAMB, VICTORIA HORNE. 

EDDIE GRIBBON, ALMIRA SESSIONS and RUSSELL 

LESLIE 

Paramount 

Slated for "My Friend Irma Goes West" was 

STUART HOLMES. 

PAT LANE, ROBERT KORTMAN and JOHN BUTLER 

were cast additions for "Montana Rides." Also 

sianed were ROBERT KEITH and TOM TULLY. Cast 

in the picture were JOSEPH CALLEIA and PETER 

H.iVNSEN. who has been given a long-term contract 

and will make his lilm debut in the iilm 

RKO Radio 

Inked for the Victor Mature, Terry Moore and 

William Bendix topliner, "Alias Mike Fury," was 

BASIL RUYSDAEL. Ted Tetzlalf megs lor Producer 

Warren Duff. 

DONN GREER, twin brother ol actress Jane Greer, 

will make his lllm debut in "The Wall Outside," 

in which Miss Greer co-stars with Dennis O'Keele 

and Lizabeth Scott. 

Inked lor an important role with Bette Davis and 

Barry Sullivan in the Skirball-Manning production, 

"The Story ol a Divorce," was FRANCES DEE. 

Slated lor the lilm were character players MORONI 

OLS'EN. KATHERINE EMERY, NATALIE SCHAFER and 

ADRi£NNE MAHDEN. 

Republic 

ESTELITA RODRIGUEZ had her option lilted lor 

another year and was assigned one of the top roles 

in the Roy Rogers vehicle, "Sunset in the West." 

ADRIAN BOOTH, ADELE MARA and BARBRA FUL- 

LER were assigned the top femme roles in Producer- 

Director Joseph Kane's The Golden Tide " 

Inked to a long-term pact and handed the second 

male lead in the as-yet untitled John Carroll, Vera 

Ralston and Walter Brennan topliner was WILLIAM 

CHING. 

AL!NE TOWNE was inked lor the lemme lead m 

"The Phantom Ruler," serial to be directed by Fred 

Brannon and produced by Franklin Adreon. Others 

cast are LANE BRADFORD, JOHN CRAWFORD, 

STANLEY PRICE, GEORGE 

and DALE VAN SICKEL 

MEEKER, TOM STEELE 

20th Century-Fox 

Cast as a disk jockey—his real-life pursuit—for 

Get By" was STEVE ALLEN. 

"I'll 

Set for the Tyrone Power-Micheline Prelle topliner, 

'American Guerrilla in the Philippines," was 

JUAN TORENO. Fritz Lang directs the Lomar Trotti 

production. 

Set for a top role in "Stella" was HOBART CAV- 

ANAUGH. ANN SHERIDAN replaces Susan Hayward 

as the femme lead. 

CELESTE HOLM was inked for a topline role in 

"AH About Eve," to be directed by Joseph Mankiewicz 

and personally produced by Darryl F. Zanuck. 

Signed was BETTE DAVIS, replacing Claudette Colbert, 

who had to bow out of the role because ol 

illness. 

"Reoptioned for another year was actor RICHARD 

"WIDMARK. 

United Artists 

Producer I. G. Goldsmith has signed OTTO 

KRUGER for "The Dungeon," to be directed by E. A. 

Dupont. 

Chinese actor BENSON FONG was inked for 

Husbands." 

UniversalrInternational 

"Three 

Title role in the Ted Richmond production. ""The 

Magnificent Heel," has been handed HOWARD 

DUFF. The vehicle will be directed by Joseph 

Pevney. 

Silent screen star ANTONIO MORENO was inked 

lor 'Saddle Tramp." ED BEGLEY and RUSSELL 

SIMPSON were signed lor the Leonard Goldstein 

production, starring Joel McCrea and Wanda Hendrix. 

Hugo Fregonese megs. 

RICHARD GREENE was signed to star with Yvonne 

DeCarlo in ""Desert Hawk," to be directed by Frederick 

de Cordova and produced by Leona"rd Goldstein. 

Signed for the Aaron Rosenberg production, ""Winchester 

'73," were STEVE DARRELL, BOB ANDERSON, 

ED COBB, FORREST TAYLOR and NORMAN KENT. 

ANNE PEARCE and FRANK FERGUSON 

set 

for supporting roles in "Loui: 

jr., son of 1he famed compose 

role ol an orchestra leader. 

Warners 

BUD WOLF and CHARLES SULLIVAN ore cast additions 

lor the Steve Cochran, Gaby Andre and 

Robert Webber topliner. "The Two Million Dollar 

Bank Robbery." Andrew Stone megs the Bryan Foy 

production Cast in the picture were JOHN McGUIRE, 

JOAN TREE, BARBARA WOODELL, KAY CRESTI, 

PAVLA HILL, 

BARRETT, 

BUD 

SAM 

ALLISON, 

FINN, BILL 

BILL WHITE, 

WHITE and 

JANIiT 

JOHN 

KNERR. 

Assigned to a musical spot in ""Lightning Strikes 

Twice" was JOAQUIN GARAY, night club and vaudeville 

singer. King Vidor megs the Richard Todd- 

Ruth Roman-Zachary Scott-Mercedes McCambridgo 

topliner for Producer Henry Blanke. 

BILLY DE WOLFE was inked lor the William 

Jacobs musical, "Tea lor Two." 

Slated to star in a Technicolor musical, '"My 

Irish Molly-O," are JUNE HAVER and DENNIS 

MORGAN. 

DORIS DAY was assigned a starring role in the 

Harry Kurnitz production, "Painting tile Clouds With 

Sunshine." 

Next western vehicle lor RANDOLPH SCOTT at 

the studio is "Along the Santa Fe Trail, " to be produced 

by Saul Elkins. 

Scripters 

Independent 

Producer Boris Petroll has mked TOM HUBBARD 

to do the adaptation and screenplay ol the Lawrence 

Webber novel, ""Melody Express " Jim Arness is 

lo 

star. 

Monogram 

CHARLES MARION, is completing the script lor 

the next Bowery Boys vehicle, "Prison Break," to 

be produced by Jon Grippo. 

Paramount 

MICHAEL WILSON was set to script "Shane" Irom 

a western novel by Jack Schaeler. Robert Fellows 

will produc 

20th-Century-Fox 

JAMES POE has been set to develop "On to Oregon," 

historical western, tor Producer Samuel G. 

Engel. 

Story Buys 

Eagle Lion 

Ventura Pictures has purchased "The Lumberjack 

and the Babe," authored by Otto Englander, as their 

next production. Frank Mellord will produce and 

John Rawlins will direct 

Independent 

Arthur Lubin has purchased lilm rights to the 

Knight-Russell agency TV show, "Dead-Letter Ollice 

'" Dick Powell is to star in the picture, which 

Marshall Grant will produce and Lubin direct. 

Producer I. G. Goldsmith's Gloria Productions has 

acquired screen rights to the Vera Caspary novel. 

"Stranger Than the Truth." 

Purchased by Frank Ross Productions was 

"Rendezvous," original screenplay by Maxwell Anderson 

and Andrew Solt Film is to be produced 

in 

Sicily. 

Monogram 

Purchase was made of the Peter B. Kyne Cosmopolitan 

novelette, ""Dog Meat." Jeffrey Bernerd will 

produce the horse-racing story. 

Republic 

Acquu 

a Rex Allen vehicle was "Under 

all Stars," an original screenplay by Sloan 

Nibley 


Purchased and assigned to Robert Bossier ior 

" 

prod'uclion was "My Mother-in-Law Miriam. domestic 

comedy by Mortimer Braus. 

Warners 

Purchased atid assigned lo William Jacobs for 

production was "A Baby lor Midge," a James Webb 

story soon to be published in Good Housekeeping 

Technically 

Columbia 

DR. ALFONSO GAONA, impressario of the Plaza 

Mexico, largest bullring in the world, was set as 

technical adviser for ""The Brave Bulls,"" a Robert 

Rossen production. 

Eagle Lion 

Technicians assigned to "Narcotic Agent" include 

ART HAMMOND, assistant director: CLARK RAM- 

SAY camercrman; FRED PREBBLE, art director, and 

REGGIE BROWN, film editor. 

Independent 

Producer Sam Wiesenthal signed HERMAN WEBER 

SO 

BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18. 1950

Bomba 

— 

' 

as production manager (or Olympic Produclionc' 

Danger " 

Cry 

Metro 

MARTY WYNN, Los Angeles sergeant ol detectives, 

was named technical advispr nn pr^li/-^ 

sequences "Slandolf in 

Monogram 

' 

Production crew lor and :ho Lost Volcano" 

includes MARCEL PICARD, camera WESLEY 

BARRY, assistant, JOHN KEAN, mixer; VIRGIL 

SMITH, recorder, and RICHARD HEERMANCE, cutter. 

Paramoiint 

NAZIH MASSAAD, Egyptian journalist and former 

United Nations attache, was signed as technical 

adviser lor Pine-Thomas Tripoli/' 

Republic 

JACK MARTA, cameraman, JACK LACEY, assistant 

director; TONY MARTINELLI, iilm editor FRANK 

HOTALING, art director, and JERRY ROBERTS, musical 

director, were assigned to "Sunset in the West." 

Assigned to the 12-episode serial, "The Phantom 

Ruler," were ELLIS CARTER, cameraman; ROY 

WADE, unit manager; ART VITARELLl, assistant 

director; SAM STARR and CLIFF BELL, Iilm editors, 

omd FRED RITTER, art director. 

Reoptioned 

O. TAYLOR. 

ior another yenr was Cameraman J. 

Set as art director ior "Trumpet to the Morn" was 

CHESTER GORE. 

United Artists 

ARTHUR MILLER will lens Horizon Productions' 

"Cost ol Living," to be produced by Sam Spiegel. 

Universal-International 

Production managers BERNARD MacEVEETY and 

EUGENE ANDERSON were acWed to the studio rosier 

and assigned to "Desert Hawk" and "The Milkman," 

respectively. 

Warners 

Art director tor Producer Sperling's "Project 7 

will be STANLEY FLEISCHER. 

Ncfmed as assistant director lor "The Breaking 

Point" was SWERRY SHOURDS. Assigned as art 

director was EDWARD CARRERE. 

Title Changes 

Columbia 

"The Killer That Stalked New York" to FRIGHT- 

ENED CITY. 

Lippert 

"Rocketship to the Moon" to ROCKETSHIP X M. 

Republic 

"State Police Patrol" to TRIAL WITHOUT lURY 

Warners 

"Murder, Inc " to PROJECT 7. 

"The Victim" to THE DAMNED DON'T CRY 

Miss Hayward Suspended 

For Refusing Assignment 

HOLLYWOOD—Her refusal to accept the 

title role in 20th Century-Fox's "Stella" resulted 

in a suspension of actre.ss Susan Hayward, 

who turned down the a.ssignment just 

after completing the femme lead in the same 

studio's high-budget sagebrusher, "Rawhide," 

starring Tyrone Power. 

"Stella" will go before the cameras next 

week, as scheduled, without loss of time since 

20th Century-Fox, following the Hayward 

suspension, promptly booked Ann Sheridan 

for the part. Sol C. Siegel produces and 

Claude Binyon will direct, with the cast also 

including 'Victor Mature, David "Wayne and 

Barbara Lawrence. 

N MANY past occasions admlnstration 

of the industry's production code 

has precipitated embarrassing situations 

for the Motion Picture Ass'n of America 

and its Hollywood running-mate organization, 

the Ass'n of Motion Picture Producers. Seldom, 

however, has the code authority been up 

against such an ironical and apparently inexplicable 

set of circumstances as those posed 

by the Italian-made "The Bicycle Thief." 

After the picture has had long and successful 

runs—sans the production code seal 


in a large number of so-called art houses 

Assigned to "Stella" were JOSEPH MacDONALD, 

cinematographer; LYLE WHEELER 

throughout 

and 

the country; after it 

MARK 

had been 

LEE- 

KIRK, art directors; HARMON JONES and HUGH generally acclaimed by critics and the public 

FOWLER, iilm editors, and AD SCHAUMER, assistant as one of recent season's most artistic 

director. 

triumphs; after it had been voted the best 

foreign picture of 1949 by the New York 

Film Critics: after it had been cho.sen as the 

best of that year—among both domestic and 

foreign films—by the National Board of Review; 

after the picture had been passed in 

its original version by the state censorship 

boards of New York. Pennsylvania and Ohio 

—Joseph I. Breen concluded that two scenes 

must be eliminated before the offering could 

hope for a code seal and thereby become 

acceptable fare for the more conventional of 

America's motion picture theatres. 

Breen holds steadfast to his interpretation 

that the two "objectionable" scenes are 

in violation of the code. They are, according 

to the code administrator, the one that 

"has to do with a young boy about to relieve 

himself In the public street" and "a 

scene inside a bawdy house in Rome." 

Censor Breen's decision brought a loud howl 

from Joseph Burstyn. U.S. distributor of the 

film, who accused Breen of subtly trying to 

"sabotage foreign pictures in the U.S." To 

such charges Breen answered that they were 

"utterly false," since the code administration 

has approved many foreign films that 

have been found acceptable under code provisions, 

and emphasized that his group "very 

properly, is not concerned in any way with 

the distribution or exhibition of motion pictures 

of any kind." its Judgment being based 

"solely on the provisions of the production 

code ... to assure decency and good taste 

in motion picture entertainment." Further, 

Breen called to Burstyn's attention the distributors 

right to appeal the decision to the 

board of directors of the producers' association. 

A seal of approval would be "readily granted." 

Breen told Burstyn. if the two abovementioned 

scenes were to be eliminated from 

"The Bicycle Thief." 

Whether or not Breen is correct in his 

interpretation that the controversial scenes 

are in violation of the code's provisions Is of 

comparatively little importance. His decision 

throws up for further grab.s—and probably 

unavoidably—the already too-complicated 

censorship structure with which the makers 

and distributors of films are constantly confronted. 

It poses two hot-potato Issues: 

Members of the MPAA. Individually and 

collectively, periodically are forced into 

hassles—sometimes litigation—with state 

cen.sorship organizations becau.se of what 

they consider unjustified, confiscatory and/or 

bigoted banning of Hollywood product. For 

an agency of MPAA to cen.sor a picture after 

It had been pas.sed by a trio of such organizations—two 

of which are among the 

nation's most exacting—certainly weakens 

the position of MPAA members in their 

running fight against what they view as 

unfair mentoring by states and cities. 

By inference it sets apart as pariahs from 

the exhibition family the so-called art 

houses, the number of which Is Increasing 

in all parts of the nation and most of which 

are operated by men with moral standards 

and business principles Just as admirable as 

those of showmen engaged In conventional 

theatre operations. Such art houses do not 

insist that the pictures they book carry the 

production code seal, in which they differ 

from the policy of most rank-and-file 

theatres. 

In view of the universal acclaim and many 

kudos that have been the lot of "The Bicycle 

Thief" and considering the patronage It has 

enjoyed in its art house engagements, understandable 

it would be if Breen's position 

regarding the picture were to plant In the 

minds of many conventional showmen strong 

doubts as to the need for the production 

code seal on all of the pictures they exhibit. 

The birth of such misgivings could conceivably 

mean the beginning of the end of the 

production code and Its seal. 

Which all adds up to one thing: 

MPAA and its watchdog. Censor Breen. 

seem to have themselves uncomfortably Impaled 

on the well-known dilemma horns, 

a position which they could not circumvent 

and still be in good conscience as concerns 

the code. 

To avoid repetition of such Impalement, 

one of two things probably Is necessary: 

A selling campaign among the art houses to 

convince them that their best long-pull Interests 

lie In their Insistence on the code 

seal on all pictures; or a revision of the code 

itself to make It more lenient toward what 

foreign filmmakers—and many Hollywood 

producers—consider honest realism 

Harry O. Stubb, 75. Dies Actor Eldon Gorst Dies Charles Brackett Speaks 

LOS ANGELES— Funeral services were HOLL'i'WOOD— Local police reported as HOLLYWOOD—Charles Brackett. writerproducer 

and president of the Academy of 

held for Harry O. Stubb. 75. stage and screen suicide the death of Eldon Gorst, 28, actor, 

actor, in the Pierce Bros. Hollywood chapel on the lawn of his home here. Officers said Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, was guest 

here. Interment was in the Chapel of the he fired a pistol into his head. Gorst had speaker at a March 14 meeting of the Hollywood 

Women's Press club. He outlined nom- 

Pines. Born in England, Stubb came here been 111 since an automobile accident last 

23 years ago. He died at the Motion Picture May 5. when he received a forehead scar inating and voting procedures In connection 

Country home. 

which prevented hus working as an actor. with the Academy's Oscar sweepstakes. 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18. 1950 51

ôttdM: ^CîWt 

IJAROLD WILSON (who remains as president 

of the Board of Trade in the new 

government) once again has ignored the 

recommendations of 

his own Films Council 

and has set the quota 

for the year commencing 

next October 

31 at 30 per cent and 

not at the 25 per cent 

which he was advised 

to take as the top 

target. 

A few weeks ago the 

Films Council, which 

is composed of representatives 

Harold Wilson 

from pro- 

^^^^^^ exhibitors and 

labor unions, advised Wilson that in view of 

the difficulty in finding investment finance 

for British films it would be dangerous in 

their opinion to set the quota at higher than 

25 per cent. The sole opposition to this proposal 

came from George Elvin, general secretary 

of the Ass'n of Cine Technicians, who 

claimed that such a low quota would result 

in a great deal of unemployment for his 

members and who urged an increase from 40 

to 45 per cent. Both producers and exhibitors 

pointed out that with the current entertainment 

tax set at 40 per cent of the 

gross receipts film production in England was 

a risky business and that it was better to 

make a few top-quality films than a large 

number of second grade pictures. 

What effect the new quota will have on 

American remittances remains to be seen. 

Wilson is, of course, due for a meeting very 

shortly with Eric Johnston and the heads of 

the major American studios and the latter 

are obviously hoping for an increase in the 

amount of cash which their British subsidiaries 

can send home. At the time of 

writing it is unlikely that they will get an 

increase, for the dollar shortage in Britain 

is likely to become more acute than ever 

within the next few months. Unless some 

other solution is found it would seem that 

the increased showing of American films to 

which the reduced quota will lead will merely 

mean the accumulation of more and more 

sterling. 

The quota for second feature product, incidentally, 

has not been altered. It remains 

at 25 per cent so that producers like James 

Carreras, who has built up a fine organization 

making and selling good quality B pictures, 

can go ahead and plan for another 

full year's work. 

THAT GOOD FILMS do not necessarily require 

a great deal of money is proved again 

this week by Frank Launder and Sidney 

Gilliat, whose latest film, "The Happiest Days 

of Your Life." has opened for a season at 

Paramount's de luxe theatre, the Carlton, 

Haymarket. The film was directed by Launder 

to a modest budget and stars the two 

fine character comedians, Alastair Sim and 

Margaret Rutherford. 

"The Happiest Days of Your Life" is an 

adaptation of a very successful wartime stage 

play by John Dighton which describes the 

confusion that arises when a girls school is 

billeted by mistake on a boys school. To 

By JOHN SULLIVAN 

Americans accustomed to co-education that 

may not sound sensational, but in Britain 

the educational policy is to segregate the 

sexes after the age of six or so and the results 

of mixing the two schools are hilariously 

funny to British eyes at least and may, 

from the interest angle, prove equally amusing 

to art house audiences in the U.S. The 

climax of the picture comes when Sim as 

the headmaster of the boys' school and Miss 

Rutherford as the headmistress of the girls' 

join forces to hoodwink parents and governors, 

and by split-second timing, delude 

one body into believing that the pupils are 

all boys and the other that they are all girls. 

The possibilities of a U.S. sale for this 

picture are purely an academic question, for 

it will return a handsome profit on its investment 

in Britain alone and since the 

Commonwealth shares the English taste for 

farce should also bring in big revenue from 

Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, 

AMERICAN COMPANIES producing in 

England will find a stiffening of resistance 

by Actors Equity if they persist in filling all 

the star roles in the film with American 

artists. In this they will be supported by 

the Ass'n of Cine Technicians, which claims 

that the same thing is happening with key 

technicians. 

Recently Equity led the agitation against 

both Gregory Peck and Virginia Mayo being 

cast for "Captain Hornblower," which is in 

production at Denham and their protests 

became even more vocal when it was announced 

that 20th Century-Fox intended 

Irene Dunne to play Queen Victoria in "The 

Mudlark." Many national newspapers took 

up the agitation and it was noteworthy that 

Warners received less sympathy from the 

press than Fox, one newspaper going so far 

as to praise the latter firm for their usual 

policy of employing as many English artists 

as possible and suggesting that they reconsider 

their decision in this case. 

Gordon Sandison, Equity's general secretary, 

said at a press conference last week 

that his organization proposed that an 

amendment should be made to the Films Act 

specifying that pictures made here by frozen 

funds should not count for quota unless they 

included a proportion of British stars and 

that a quota picture should include at least 

one British name above the title. American 

companies would obviously object to such 

conditions since they cannot be expected to 

encourage the development of British stars 

who will in turn become competition with 

their contract players in the U.S. market. 

ACT also is 

making representations to the 

Board of Trade about the increasing use of 

American senior technicians in Anglo-American 

films made here. George Elvin claimed 

that this not only led to unemployment but 

that the resulting films were bad. According 

to him, and it must be admitted that 

there is some sense in his argument, the 

only really good Anglo-American film to be 

released so far is "The Hasty Heart." 

THE INDEPENDENT FILM, "The Chance 

of a Lifetime," which Odeon has been forced 

to book by the Board of Trade selection committee 

was tradeshown by British Lion last 

week. Sight of it leaves little doubt that 

the circuits were right in hesitating over 

booking it as a first feature. 

The picture tells of a small factory in a 

country town which makes agricultural machinery. 

It is owned by Basil Radford who 

took over from his father, the founder of 

the firm. Radford is an engineer and has 

designed a new one-way plow, but when the 

workers, led by a troublemaker, decide to 

strike and tell him that they could run the 

factory better than he, the need for a holiday 

decides him to take their offer. 

The workers appoint a committee to run 

the plant and obtain a huge order from a 

foreign delegation for the one-way plows. 

After retooling and turning the whole factory 

over to the production of this one implement 

the order is canceled and the boss 

has to come back to show them how to run 

the show. 

Not only is the story trite and unconvincing 

but the characters are conventional and 

the direction pedestrian. In addition, photography 

and sound are below first feature 

standard and the film will need a very attractive 

support to bring in the customers. 

Howard Dietz Ends Talks 

On Merchandising Drive 

HOLLYWOOD—Concluding a series of intensive 

huddles to draft merchandising campaigns 

for new MGM product, Howard Dietz, 

vice-president in charge of advertising and 

publicity, has returned to his New York headquarters 

to set the exploitation campaigns in 

motion. Remaining here for additional conferences 

with Louis B. Mayer, Dore Schary, 

E. J. Mannix and other studio brass was 

William F. Rodgers, vice-president and general 

sales manager. 

Rodgers, admitting that "overall business 

is down," nevertheless declared that MGM's 

new product, as well as that emanating from 

other studios, "shows definite improvement," 

adding that "the market is there . . . the job 

at hand now is to sell it." 

The selling campaign, to be submitted to 

Nicholas M. Schenck, president of Loew's, 

Inc., for final approval, calls for expanded 

advertising and promotional activities not 

only on individual releases but also on an 

institutional basis, company spokesmen said, 

including undertakings which, it is claimed, 

are the most ambitious since "Gone With the 

Wind" and "Battleground." 

Albert Rogell Installed 

As B'nai B'rith President 

HOLLYWOOD—Top studio executives were 

in attendance at the March 12 installation 

ceremonies of the new Irving Thalberg lodge, 

entertainment affiliate of B'nai B'rith, at 

which Producer-Director Albert S. Rogell 

took office as president pro tem of the new 

group. Among those participating were Dore 

Schary, Harry Cohn, Sid Rogell. Arthur 

Ka-im, Steve Broidy. Harry Sherman and 

other industry prominents. 

Audrey Totter Leaves MGM 

HOLLYWOOD—Actress Audrey Totter, 

planning to freelance, asked for and received 

release from the balance of her MGM ticket. 

She had been with the studio since 1944. 


Big Ballyhoo Campaigns 

Held in Regional Debuts 

HOLLYWOOD—Showmanship in regional 

premieres was the foreword for midwestern 

openings of two new releases. Monogram's 

"Blue Grass of Kentucky" and Warner's 

"Young Man With a Horn." 

Intensive ballyhoo campaigns were staged 

for "Blue Grass" in its debuts in Cincinnati. 

Dayton and Columbus, Ohio, including the 

use of a "jockey" in street ballyhoo, throwpieces 

in the form of "racing forms" and a 

parade of local horsemen. 

For "Horn." at the Indiana in Indianapolis. 

Warners tied in with a contest to find the 

lic. 

Jerry Fairbanks Productions completed 

filming on a series of television commercials 

for Oldsmobile with casts comprising Virginia 

Bruce. Eddie Bracken, Ginny Simms, 

Brenda Joyce, Marjorie Reynolds, Gale Robbins, 

Don DeFore, Evelyn Ankers. Martha 

Tilton and Barbara Britton. 

Foreclosure Action Filed 

Against Two Features 

HOLLYWOOD—Foreclosure actions against 

two major features were filed in superior 

court by the Bank of 'America, which instituted 

proceedings against "Magic Town." 

Robert Riskin production made for RKO 

release, and "The Fabulous Dorseys." a 

Charles R. Rogers-Embassy Production distributed 

by United Artists. Both films went 

into release in 1947. 

In the "Magic Town" action RKO and 

Riskin are listed as defendants, the bank 

seeking S630,258 plus accrued interest of 

S57.476 on an original loan of $1,472,773, 

while in the "Dorseys" suit the bank contends 

Embassy owes $260,486 plus accrued interest 

of $27,274 on a loan of S817.500. 

Post as Producer Given 

To Young Sam Goldwyn 

HOLLYWOOD—Add the Samuel Goldwyns. 

pere et fils, to the Ust of father-and-son 

combinations now active in the industry. The 

younger Goldwyn, after a year as associate 

to Producer Leonard Goldstein at U-I, has 

joined the Goldw-yn unit as a producer. His 

first chore, "No Time Like the Present." is 

slated for filming this summer in Italy and 

Germany. It is based on an original story. 

East: Walter Lantz. producer of theatrical 

and industrial cartoons, left for the east en 

route to Europe for an extended visit. He 

will combine business with pleasure, surveying 

production facilities in Paris. London and 

Rome. Lantz recently delivered the last of 

12 one-reel cartoons which he was committed 

to produce for United Artists release. 

East: Arthur Loew, president of Loew's International 

and head of Coliseum Films, returned 

to his Gotham offices after huddling 

here with Fred Zinnemann. who will direct 

Coliseum's "Teresa." The film is slated for 

production in Europe. 

West: Due in from New York was Joseph 

H. Moskowitz. vice-president of 20th Century- 

Fox, for conferences at the Westwood studio 

with Darryl F. Zanuck. production chief, and 

other brass. 

West: Harry Brandt. New York circuit 

executive, flew in to attend a Jewish seminary 

meeting. Planning a stay of only a few 

days, he was accompanied by his family. 

East: Joseph Bernhard. president of Film 

Classics, returned to hLs New York offices 

after a short busine.ss trip to the coast to 

confer with producers releasing through his 

company. 

West: George D. Burrows. Monogram- Allied 

Artists vice-president and treasurer, returned 

from a two-week business trip to New- 

York. 

East: David Lipton. U-I advertising-publicity 

director, planed to New York for three 

weeks of talks with home office executives 

concerning campaigns on upcoming releases. 

Gael Sullivan Slated 

As SCTOA Headliner 

LOS ANGELES—Gael Sullivan, executive 

director of Theatre Owners of America, will 

be the headlined speaker at the allday panel 

meeting and open forum to be staged by the 

West: David Garber, general manager of 

the King.sW'Ood studios in Jamaica, B. W. I., Southern California Theatre Owners Ass'n. 

arrived to complete the purchase of equipment 

The date of that session has been moved up 

for the new company, which has a 15- from March 28 to March 24 in order to con- 

year exclusive production franchise in the form to Sullivan's schedules. The TOA executive 

is now in New York. 

British dependency. Garber was formerly 

plant manager at RKO studios here and onetime 

Sullivan made his last appearance before 

studio 

state's "Top 

manager at Universal. 

exhibition circles in the southland as a delegate 

to 

Young Man With a Horn." for 

which Tommy Dorsey 

TOA's annual convention here last 

served as one of the 

judges. More 

September. 

than 50 openings in the Indiana 

area followed The agenda for the SCTOA meeting re- 

East: Syd Gross, advertising-publicity director 

for Film Classics, returned to his New 

the Indianapolis premieremains 

the same, augmented by Sullivan's appearance. 

De-scribed as an allout effort to 

York offices after a two-week stay here, talking 

with producers releasing through FC on combat problems confronting showmen here, 

their current and upcoming plans. He also 

the parley will present for exhaustive discussion 

such topics as ways and means ot 

Hal Roach Studio to Film attended the world premiere of FC's "The 

Vicious Years." 

General Motors Picture 

made by Anson Bond's Emerald 

Productions, at the Four Star Theatre. 

reawakening public interest in motion pictures, 

taxation and legislation, operating expenses, 

merchandusing and television and its 

HOLLYWOOD—Top film personalities will 

be toplined in a full-length public relations 

film being planned for production by General 

Motors and for which shooting space has States Pictures, releasing through Warners, As concerns video, the SCTOA's newly ap- 

East: Milton Sperling, head of United effects on the boxoffice. 

been secured at the Hal Roach studios in Culver 

City. The subject, as yet untitled, will players for his next opus, slated to roll in James Nicholson. R. H. McCullough, Mort 

went to Gotham to sign several Broadway pointed television committee, comprising 

be turned out by John K. Ford. GM executive 

in charge of motion picture productions, ing east were Roy Del Ruth, Warner direc- 

an extensive survey of southland set owners 

April with Felix Feist directing. Also head- 

Goldberg and S. Charles Lee, has undertaken 

with Arthur Pierson. film megaphonist. set tor: William Guthrie, studio location manager, 

and Mel Dellar, assistant director, who canvass, including repeat calls on homes in- 

and their filmgoing habits. A hou.se-to-house 

to direct. Pierson and Ford are assembling 

a production unit and expect to start shooting 

in about two weeks. Plans are being made 

are scouting locations around the U. S. Military 

Academy for "The West Point Story." 

to distribute the picture to the general pub- 

cluded in a survey made last year, is being 

launched to determine how permanent is 

the damage which the SCTOA concedes has 

been done to the boxoffice by TV. Findings 

of the survey will be dLsclo.sed at the March 

24 meeting. 

Gus A. Metzger. SCTOA board chairman, 

will preside and speakers will include such 

showmen as Sherrill Corwin, Jack Goldman, 

Cecil Vinnicof, Harold Citron, W. H. "Bud" 

LoUier, James Nicholson and Bob Rothavel, 

as weU as Ezra Stern. SCTOA legal counsel. 

Girl Scouts Give Honor 

To Warners for Film 

HOLLYWOOD—For producing "Women of 

Tomorrow." two-reeler glorifying the Girl 

Scouts of America. Warner Bros, and Jack 

L. Warner, executive producer, were honored 

at the organization's birthday celebration at 

the Shrine auditorium. Dennis Morgan and 

Gordon MacRae. Warner contract players, 

appeared on the program to receive the Girl 

Scouts' certificate of appreciation. The presentation—broadcast 

nationally over NBCfollowed 

a special showing of "Women of Tomorrow 

to an audience of Girl Scouts. The 

" 

short was produced in Technicolor by Gordon 

Hollingshead. 

George Jessel, 20th Century-Fox producer, 

was presented the annual Humanitarian 

Service award of the Jewish Consumptive 

Relief society at a dinner meeting of the 

organization, which honored the show business 

veteran for his widespread charitable 

activities. 

EL to Release "Prehisloric' 

HOLLYWOOD—Eagle Lion will release the 

next Albert J. Cohen production. "Prehistoric 

Woman." which Cohen will .send before the 

cameras next month. An original .screenplay 

by Sam X. Abarbanel and Greg Tallas. the 

exploitation feature will be filmed In Cinecolor, 

with Tallas directing. 

BOXOFnCE March 18, 1950 W 53

— 

i, 

love Happy Grosses 

In 

120 Per Cent 

Average Week at Los Angeles 

LOS ANGKLKS—First run circles sang the 

boxoffice blues as only one new bill managed 

to creep past the 100 per cent mark. Best of 

the week, at 120, was "Love Happy," doubled 

with "Tyrant of the Sea" in five day-date 

situations, while five other attractions played 

to average business and the remainder fell 

below the line. 

90 


Chinese, Los Angeles, Loyola, Uptown, Wilshire 

When Willie Comes Marching Home (20th-rox)- 

The Gu\ From San Lorenzo (UA), 2nd wk lOU 

Uownlown, Hollywood Paramounts — Dear Wile 

(Para); Unmasked (Rep) 7i 

Egyptian, Loews Stati^-Ambush (MGM) 100 

Four 

100 

Music Halls, 

Star—The Vicious Years 

Forum—Love 

(FC) 

Happy (UA); Tyrant 

of the Sea (Col)..._ 

Orpheum—Spring in Park Lane (EL), plus vaudeville 

IÛ 

100 

Pontages, Hillstreet—The Palomino (Col')','" Father 

Is a Bachelor (Col) gO 

United Artists, Ritz, Culver, Studio City, Vogue- 

Francis (U-1); There's a Girl in My Heart (Mono) 

3rd wk _ IQO 

Warners Holly-wood, Downtown, Wiltern 

Man With a Horn (WB), 2nd wk 

Young 

. 

"Francis' Grosses 150 Per Cent 

At Denver Aladdin 

DENVER—After a good week, despite the 

heaviest snow of the winter, "Malaya" stayed 

54 

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-ln Theatre use, by 

-RCA- 

337 GOLDEN GATE AVE. • HE 1-8302 

SAN FRANCISCO 2. CALIF. 

C, W. Morris, Pres. : Wayne Mayhew, Vice-Pres. 

, 'CELLOS PEANUT C0_ 

BLOCKBUSTER 

a second week at the Orpheum. Business 

would have been much better but for the 

storm. 

Aladdin—Francis (U-1); Chinatown at Midnight 

(Col), 5th d, t. wk 150 

Broadway—Battleground (MGM), 6th wk 90 

Denham—Captain China (Para), 2nd wk 90 

Denver, Esquire—When Willie Comes Marching 

Home (20th-Fox); Western Pacific Agent (LP) 125 

Orpheum—Malaya (MGM); Man of Evil (UA), 

,120 

i 

Paramount, Webber—The Nevadan (Col); Mary 

Hyan, Detective (Col) 

_ ] 

Rialto—Chain Lightning (WB); The Green Promise 

(RKO), 4th d. t. wk 

11 

Vogue—Carnival in Flanders (French); Rubens 

(French) 

'Samson' Shows Strength 

With 185 in Seattle 

SEATTLE—"Samson and Delilah," at advanced 

prices, came into the 3,000-seat Paramount 

to top the town at 185 per cent. "Key 

to the City" hit a fancy 145 per cent at the 

Music Hall, where it was double-billed with 

"Tarnished." 

Blue Mouse—Stromboli (RKO), 2nd wk. 65 

Coliseum—Captain China (Para); West of Wyoming 

(Mono) i]5 

Pilih Avenue—Mother Didn't Tell Me (20th-roxj; 

Blue Gross of Kentucky (Mono), 2nd wk 85 

Liberty—Ambush (MGM); The Flying Saucer 

(FC) 2nd wk 100 

Music Box—My Foolish Heort (RKO), 2nd wk 120 

Music Hall—Key to the City (MGM); Tarnished . 

(Rep) 145 

Orpheum—Chain Lightning (WB); Cry Murder 

(FC), 2nd wk tiU 

Paramount—Samson and Delilah (Para), advanced 

prices 185 

Cinema—Chain Lightning (WB), 2nd d. t. wk 100 

Fox—Mother Didn't Tell Me (20th-Fox) -.100 

Golden Gate—Intruder in the Dust (MGM); 

Appointment With Murder (FC) 95 

Orpheum—FrancU (U-I); Bodyhold (Col), 2nd wk...l65 

Paramount—Coptain China (PoYa); Backfire (WB), 

2nd wk 95 

Sf. Francis—Young Man With a Horn (WB)."' 135 

United Artists—The Red Shoes (UA) 150 

Worlield-Molaya (MGM), 2nd wk. 110 

Role in Minstrel Show 

HOBBS, N. M.—R. W. Ferguson, Hobbs 

Theatre manager, played a leading role in 

the minstrel show recently sponsored by the 

Lions club. 

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Customers always come back for more once 

they have tasted its delicious flavor. 

MORE RETAn. SALES PER BAG 

Means more profits to you. Blockbuster Popcorn 

IS worth $5 to $10 more per bag than 

average corn because of higher popping volume. 

A trial order will convince you. 

MELLOS PEANUT CO 

Los Angeles 

POPCORN 

Chicago 

We Are 

Dealers 

POPCORN 

PEANUTS 

and 

SUPPLIES 

"Where Quality 

is Higher than 

Price!" 

'Haylifi' lo Premiere 

At Ely, Nev., April 10 

DENVER—"Operation Haylift," of special 

interest to this section since it was the scene 

of the original during the terrific blizzard a 

year, ago, will be world-premiered at Ely, 

Nev., April 10. Ely was the scene of the takeoff 

of the first plane in the operation to 

take hay to cattle, sheep and other animals 

dying of starvation due to deep snow and 

strong winds. 

The entire cast, along with Robert L. Lippert, 

head of Lippert lectures, will be at the 

world premiere. They will then be flown to 

Denver for an area premiere at the Paramount 

April 11. Tlien the group will fly to 

Scottsbluff, Neb., for a Nebraska premiere 

April 12 at the Midwest, the flagship of the 

Midwest Amusement Co. This will be of 

special interest to that section because William 

Ostenberg in, managing director of the 

theatre, flew planes in the original haylift 

operation last year. 

This will easily be the major event of the 

spring for Scottsbluff, since it is the first 

time a complete cast of a film has appeared 

there. 

Prom Scottsbluff the cast will fly to Salt 

Lake City to appear at the Utah premiere 

April 13. Lippert has assigned the entire 

output of 170 prints to the Denver and Salt 

Lake City film area for the premiere period 

and, judging from the way bookings are coming 

in, every print will be busy. Tom Bailey, 

franchise owner, and his staff are busy on 

the arrangements. 

Final Sales Meeting Held 

By NSS at Los Angeles 

LOS ANGELES—Fifth and last in a series 

Ahead at San Francisco 

Second Week of 'Francis' 

SAN FRANCISCO—Tops for the week was 

the laugh riot, "Francis," dualed with "Bodyhold" 

in a second week at the Orpheum. Sec- 

George Dembow, vice-president in charge of 

of regional sales meetings conducted by 

ond spot honors went to the opening of "The sales for National Screen Service, was held 

Red Shoes" at popular prices at the United here March 6, 7 at the Ambassador hotel. 

Artists. 

The business outlook and current problems 

were the chief topics for discussion. 

Those attending, in addition to Dembow, 

were Bernie Wolf, western district manager; 

branch managers Ben Ashe, Los Angeles; Bud 

Brody, Seattle and Portland: Kenneth Friedman, 

Salt Lake City; Jim Parsons, Denver; 

Jack Marpole, San PYancisco, and Ralph 

Wilshin, head of the NSS laboratories in 

Hollywood, and Jack Jacobs, special service 

man working out of the Los Angeles office. 

Dembow was slated to return to his New 

York headquarters following the meeting. 

Rooney Ends Contract 

HOLLYWOOD—Termination of their association 

by mutual agreement was disclosed 

by actor Mickey Rooney and Producer-Agent 

Sam Stiefel. During their business relationship 

Rooney starred in two Stiefel-produced 

films, "Quicksand" and "The Big Wheel," 

both for United Artists release. He is ciu-- 

rently toplining in "Freddie the Great" at 

Columbia. 

Remodeling Work Delayed 

SUMAS, WASH.—Plans for remodeling of 

the Rose Theatre here have been completed, 

but actual work has been held up until the 

weather improves, according to theatre owner 

E. A. Lytle. New equipment, including projection 

machines, has been purchased. 

BOXOFTICE March 18. 1950

. . 

. . Clove 

Fanchon & Marco Unii 

Starts Vaudeville 

LOS ANGELES—A combined flesh-andfilms 

policy has returned to another de luxe 

downtown showcase here, the second first run 

operation to herald the reappearance of stage 

shows in less than a year. 

Using a format similar to the units discontinued 

in 1941. the Downtown Paramount 

has reinstituted its Fanchon & Marco stage 

revues to supplement picture fare. As was 

the case previously, the shows include several 

acts, a chorus line and an orchestra conducted 

by Rube Wolf, managing director of 

the house for F&M. The revues are staged 

by Marco Wolff and Miss Fanchon. 

Last August the Orpheum. downtown deluxer 

operated by Sherrill Corwin's Metropolitan 

circuit, brought back vaudeville and 

has been operating since on a weekly change 

featuring eight acts and a feature film. 

The Downtown Paramount's opening presentation 

toplined crooner Herb Jeffries, with 

Republic's "Singing Guns" on the screen. Its 

day-date booking partner, the Hollywood 

Paramount, continues its all-film policy. 

Video Theatre Planned 

By Salt Lake City Men 

SALT LAKE CITY—Reed Bigelow and W. 

Leonard Beers, now operating the television 

retail department at Auerbach's department 

store, have obtained a long term lease on a 

large store in which they plan to install an 

ultramodern television theatre. The location 

is in the heart of Salt Lake City. 

The owners said it would be several weeks 

before the location can be prepared for the 

TV theatre. They said they intend to move 

their equipment and merchandise from the 

department store to the new location. 

39 Showings Are Booked 

For Films on Montana 

HELENA—A total of 39 showings of the 

Montana Chamber of Commerce motion pictures, 

"Montana at Work" and "Montana at 

Play," have been arranged in Massachusetts, 

according to Paul Campbell of Glasgow, chairman 

of the chamber's travel division. 

The purpose of filming the colored pictures 

of Montana has been to interest easterners 

in visiting Montana as well as give 

them an accurate picture of the way of life 

here. 

SAN FRANCISCO 

. 

The new seals for the Ro.\y in Pleusanton 

were a bit late in arriving . . A new 

' 

concrete floor and new seats were installed 

in the Strand in San Jo.se, according to 

Manager William Smeltzer. An estimated 

$20,000 is being spent on remodeling . 

Coleen Townsend, Hollywood actress who 

gave up her career to enter church work, was 

in Berkeley last week to speak at the First 

Presbyterian church. 

Seventeen local men in Watsonville. veterans 

of the Battle of the Bulge, took advantage 

of an offer to see "Battleground" at the 

Center Theatre free. The manager is Tiny 

Mercer . . . R. p. Corbin of the Redwood 

Theatres is being transferred to Medford 

from Eureka. James E. Gellatly was shifted 

from the Woodland to become district manager 

for Redwood in Humboldt county, with 

headquarters in Eureka. Gellatly has been 

with the Redwood H years. W. J. Gearing 

will take over as manager of the Eureka 

Theatre. He comes from Modesto, and has 

had .several years theatre management experience 

in eastern cities. 

Mrs. W. I. O'Leary has been elected president 

of the Santa Clara County Motion Picture 

council. The organization compiles a 

list of approved films for San Jose theatregoers 

. . . Tlie mayor of Gait has appealed to 

the residents of the town to help decide 

whether the city should annex a parcel of 

land which is as yet undeveloped upon which 

a drive-in is propo.sed to be built. Thus 

voters will decide the fate of the Hap Loo.ser 

drive-in project. 

The gin rummy tournament at the Variety 

Club has all the boys on pins and needles 

wondering who will come out the champ. 

According to those who have lost out, the 

best players have all been eliminated! . . . 

COMPO sponsored a meeting of the theatre 

executives at which time Hulda McGinn outlined 

her recent visit to Washington where 

COMPO matters were discussed. 

. . . The 

"Lost in the Stars" has been announced 

as the fourth in the Civic Light Opera Co. 

productions which will come here 

Andrews Sisters will star with Bob Hope in 

"Newspaper Frolics" slated for the Civic 

The Vogue announced the 

arena April 1 . . . 

inauguration of a new policy to show first 

run films of international flavor, with emphasis 

upon British product which has not 

previously been seen in the Bay area. 

The motion picture indu.stry of northern 

California honored Hulda McGinn, public relations 

for the California Theatres Ass'n, on 

her 25th anniversary in the industry at a 

testimonial luncheon at the Variety Club 

Tuesday (14i. Herman Wobber, 20th-Fox. 

was toastmaster 

Drive-In, was 

. 

on 

. . 

the 

L. Vaughn, 

Row as 

Modesto 

was Eddie 

Matt Freed is now with 

Stokes, Fresno . . . 

the Lippert Productions public relations department. 

A&D Advertising Is going allout with new 

outdoor equipment, including a motion picture 

car, floats and traveling signs. A&D 

has moved to larger quarters at 1245 South 

Van Ne.ss . . . For the first time in ten years, 

the Fox Theatre here offered a stage bill, 

featuring Duke Ellington and band . . . M. J. 

Carney, army motion picture -service, was 

back on the Row following an illness. 

Juanita Flynn, Columbia, is recuperating 

after an operation . LaFave is back 

at work at Columbia following illness . . . 

Gerald Karski, president of Motion Picture 

Service, and Harold Zell went to Colexico to 

shoot the Standard Oil production, "Desert 

Calvacade." Tlie film will be the first of the 

new series that MPS is shooting for Standard 

Oil. Release is expected in April . . . Barry 

Greenberg is the new salesman at the Eagle 

Lion here. 

Style Show at Tower 

PORTALES, N. M.—A style show sponsored 

by the Business and Professional Woman's 

club was held at the Tower Theatre recently. 

Purpose of the show was to secure 

funds to help furnish a room in the county 

hospital. 


We 

hare Ih 

lor 

YOUR 

u. lo. (Juick Ac. onl 

THEATRE 

THEATRE EXCHANGE CO. 

201 Frnt Artl Bldg Perlljnll S. Orw 

Avalon to Be Remodeled 

CLATSKANIE, ORE.—Extensive remodeling 

of the Avalon Theatre here soon will be 

started under the supervision of Percy, Lathrop 

& Gillam, Portland architects and engineers. 

A new front will be installed, and 

the lobby and foyer will be enlarged. Interior 

changes will include the addition of a 

new snack bar. New fluorescent carpeting 

will be laid, and new auditorium lighting will 

be installed. 

Cameo Theatre Reopened 

WHITE SALMON, WASH.—The Cameo 

Theatre here, closed since January 13, recently 

was reopened. Damage resulting from 

bursted water pipes while the house was 

closed was quickly repaired. 

c^fcci^^ 

IN THE SMART STYLING OF THE NEW 

HEYWOOD- WAKEFIELD THEATRE CHAIRS 

^ 

'^

LOS ANGELES 

n veteran of 41 years in the show business 

and. in point of service, the oldest exhibitor 

in Canada, was a southland visitor. 

Harry Alexander of B&F Theatres, Toronto, 

and his brother-in-law, Leon Charlip, a member 

of the circuit's staff, were here on vacation. 

The chain is affiliated with Famous 

Players Canadian . . . A. L. Gore, veteran 

exhibitor, is recuperating from major surgery 

which he underwent at Cedars of Lebanon 

hospital. A. L. and his brother Mike 

are pioneers in the southern California film 

field, having founded West Coast Theatres 

which later became Fox West Coast. 

Returning from Chicago, where he attended 

the 20th-Fox exhibitor-distributor merchandising 

conference, Harry Vinnicof immediately 

called a meeting of managers of his 

ten houses to instill them with the enthusiasm 

which he brought back from that session 

Al O'Keefe, executive assistant to 

. . . William A. Scully, U-I general sales manager, 

checked in from New York for business 

huddles with Barney Rose, western district 

chief, and Bill Harriot, local manager. 

There's been a change in the partnership 

setup operating the Encino Theatre in En- 

%ei^ 

IDEAL 

PROJECTION 

AND 

SOUND 

SEATING 

SLIDE- BACK 

Projection Equipment & Maintenance Co. 

1975 South Vermont Avenue, Phone: REpublic 0711 

Los Angeles 7, California 

— 

MRS. HAROLD CALLAWAY— 

Owner and projectionist. Mars 

Theatre, La Farge, Wise.—says: 

"RCA Service brings to our 

theatre a remarkable amount of 

continuous admiration from our 

patrons for our excellent sound 

and clear projection. A gratifying 

insurance!" 


write: RCA SERVICE COMPANY, 


Camden, N. J. 

cino. Howard Goldenson has withdrawn as 

Jules Cedar's partner, and Emmett Shane, 

formerly connected with Paramount in San 

Francisco has taken over Goldenson's spot. 

The latter plans to .enter another line of 

business . . . Herb Turpie, western district 

manager for the Manley popcorn company, 

headed for Phoenix and Tucson on a combined 

business-pleasure junket. 

Booking and buying visitors included Joe 

Mealy, who manages the La Tijera in the 

Westchester district; Dode Samuels, operator 

of the Carlsbad in Carlsbad near San Diego; 

W. D. McClintock, manager of the Park in 

Huntington Park; J. W. Malone, Arlington; 

Dick Lenehan, Roxy, Glendale, and Ernie 

Silcox of the York . . . Jess Levine. San 

Francisco circuit executive, lunched on the 

Row with Lou O'Brasky of the Clasa-Mohme 

exchange. 

Frank MiUan, who formerly operated the 

Alto Theatre here, has been appointed manager 

of the new Indio Drive-In, operated by 

Reg Jones and associates . . . Sam Steinberg 

of the Hollywood Advertising Co. left for the 

northern territory on a selling trip . . . 

Honeymooning in San Francisco and Palm 

Springs were Mr. and Mrs. Harold Feldman. 

The bride is the daughter of Arthur Baehr, 

concessions manager for the Eastland circuit 

and the Aladdin Drive-ins chain, which are 

Jack Berman-Harry Popkin-Arthur Ringer 

enterprises. She formerly was a clerk at the 

local Warner exchange. Feldman is not connected 

with the industry. 

The Eagle Lion branch is hopped up over 

the fact that six local first run showings of 

its product have been set for the month, including 

the Downtown and Hollywood Paramounts, 

the Pantages and Hillstreet, Fox 

West Coast's Chinese, Los Angeles, Loyola, 

Uptown and Wilshire, the Music Halls, the 

Paris and Canon art houses and the Marcal 

and Picfair. 

Assembly-Line Method 

For Set Construction 

HOLLYWOOD—Paramount has developed 

an "assembly-line" method for set construction 

and operation which, it is claimed, materially 

reduces costs. Called the interlocking 

roller base and platform system, the chief 

factor is an interlocking device by which mobile 

platforms are combined up to any required 

size or height. It makes possible the 

erection and handling of sets in a flexible, 

time-saving manner. Sets erected on the 

platforms can be rolled from construction 

areas to stages and off again like an assembly 

line. 

September Opening Set 

LEWISTOWN, MONT.—The Sheldon-Otis 

Co. will open the George Theatre, named in 

memory of Lewistown's pioneer George Wiedeman, 

September 1. The 800-seat theatre will 

be located in a building to be constructed 

by the Central Montana Co. Two stores will 

be located in the building. 

Skouras Launches 

Big NT Drive Plans 

LOS ANGELES—Immediately upon his return 

from a tour of National Theatres divisional 

headquarters throughout the country, 

Charles P. Skouras, president of NT and 

Fox West Coast, will stage one-day sessions 

of FWC's northern and southern California 

divisions to outline the upcoming eighth annual 

Charles Skouras showmanship campaign. 

The southern division meeting will be held 

here March 21 and will be followed the next 

day by a northern division huddle in San 

Francisco. Theatre managers, district managers 

and booking forces will attend. 

Skouras and other NT executives made a 

swing around the circuit, which included 

stopovers at Fox Wisconsin, Milwaukee; Fox 

Midwest, Kansas City; Fox Intermountain, 

Denver, and Evergreen, Portland, as well as 

a two-day visit to Chicago to attend 20th 

Century-Fox's showmanship conclave. Accompanying 

Skouras on the junket were John 

Lavery, his executive aide; Thornton Sargent, 

NT public relations director; Victor Adams, 

merchandising chief, and district managers 

Mose Mesher, Evergreen circuit; Harry Seipel, 

FWC's northern California segment; Hall 

Baetz, Intermountain; Fred Souttar, Midwest, 

and Stan Brown, FWC-southern California. 

New Winchester Product 

To Be Handled by RKO 

HOLLYWOOD—Distribution through RKO 

has been secured by another independent unit 

with the signing of a two-year contract by 

Winchester Pictures, recently organized by 

Producer-Director Howard Hawks and financier 

Edward Lasker. 

The initial commitment calls for delivery 

of three top-budget films, which Hawks will 

produce and direct, the first to go into production 

this summer. Titles have not yet 

been selected. Hawks' last chore was the 

megging stint on 20th-Fox's "I Was a Male 

War Bride." 

Rites for Sid Grauman 

Held at Forest Lawn 

LOS ANGELES—His legion of friends from 

all segments of the industry gathered to pay 

final tribute to the memory of Sid Grauman, 

veteran showman, at burial services held at 

Forest Lawn. Grauman, whose landmarks 

included the world-famed Chinese and Egyptian 

theatres in Hollywood, died at 70 of a 

heart ailment. 

The eulogy was delivered by George Jessel, 

and Kenny Baker sang two of the exhibitor's 

favorite hymns. Final services were 

read by George Ward, a member of the Christian 

Science church and Grauman's longtime 

friend. 

'Champion' Chosen Model 

HOLLYWOOD—The theatre arts department 

of UCLA will devote its entire course 

of "Introduction to Motion Picture Making" 

to a study of one motion picture in all phases 

of its conception and production. Producer 

Stanley Kramer's "Champion," a United Art- 

Have you ordered your taxation trailer and ists release, was chosen for the project 

petition cards from National Screen Service? model, and Carl Foreman, who wrote the 

Do it today. 

screenplay, will lecture on script construction. 

5S BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950

. . Frank 

Denver Allied Confab 

Slated for May 16, 17 

DENVER—The annual convention of Allied 

Rocky Mountain Independent Theatres 

is set for the Cosmopolitan hotel here May 

16. 17. Many Allied leaders will attend including 

the new president. Trueman Rembusch. 

Other national officers and board 

members have indicated they will be present. 

Exhibitors are urged to send in .suggestions 

on any subjects they wish discussed at the 

meeting, especially problems of the independent 

exhibitor. Every member is urged to bring 

at least one independent exhibitor not now 

an ARMIT member. The convention committee 

is aiming at 100 per cent membership 

attendance. 

A large block of rooms has been reserved 

tentatively for the convention, but it will be 

necessary for those planning to attend to 

notify the committee of their needs as to 

rooms. The hotel situation in Denver makes 

advance reservations imperative. The convention 

will be presided over by John Wolfberg, 

president. 

SEATTLE 

prank L. Newman, Evergreen circuit president, 

is back from California and will lead 

managers and executives to Portland for a 

meeting to be held with National Theatres 

President Charles P. Skouras. Also attending 

the session from Seattle will be William 

H. Thedford, vice-president, who returned 

from the 20th-Fox meeting in Chicago. 

John von Herberg has left U-I's sales staff 

here for the Denver branch where he will 

take over a salesman's duties . . . Herbert 

Kaufman, division manager for Motion Picture 

Sales Corp., was here from Los Angeles. 

Roy Brown was appointed northwest manager 

with headquarters in Seattle . . . Lionel 

Brown, owner of the Princess in Edmonds, 

is carrying his arm in a sling as a result of 

a fall at his home. 

Lloyd Pearson, Dominion Sound Equipment 

sales manager from Montreal, and L. G. 

Sigurdson, district manager, Vancouver. B. C, 

conferred here with B. F. and Tom Shearer 

. . . John Danz. Sterling circuit president, 

Is back from a Los Angeles business trip . . . 

Jack Hamaker. manager of the Paramount, 

spotted signs which read; "See the Biggest 

Haircut in History" in 40 barber shops for 

part of his campaign on "Samson and Dehlah." 

A. M. Ahlskog, Fox West Coast controller 

from Los Angeles and formerly Evergreen 

circuit treasurer, was here for a week on 

Exhibitors on Filmrow included 

business . . . 

Mr. and Mrs. Norman Clyde and their 

twin daughters of Langley; FYed Gamble, 

Tacoma; Pat Tappan. Wenatchee; Andy 

Wolyer, Selah; Corbin Ball. Ephrata: George 

Borden jr., Blaine: L. E. Allen. Tacoma, and 

Keith Beckwith, North Bend. 

Jima Vetercms Are Guests 

WEISER, IDA. — R. G. W. Frisbey, Star 

Theatre manager, had seven of the veterans 

of Iwo Jima as guests at the showing of 

"Sands of Iwo Jima" recently. 

DENVER 

prank Childs, a longtime film .salesman, has 

resigned at Monogram and will manage 

the new starlight Drive-In. Sterling, Colo. 

The salesman post went to Robert Ryan, former 

Paramount salesman who has been out 

of the film busine.ss for some years. TTils 

makes the sales force, including the manager 

and three salesmen, all formerly with 

Paramount. They are Manager C. J. Duer 

and salesmen Jack Felix, Howard Deweese 

and Ryan. 

Rex Allen, Republic cowboy star, piled up 

fine gros.ses during his three days of personal 

appearances at the Victory in connection 

with the first run of "Arizona Cowboy." Publicity 

was handled by Mickey Gro.ss, formerly 

here as general manager of Wolfberg Theatres 

and prior to that as Orpheum manager. 

When Gross was forced to proceed at 

once to New Orleans to handle the publicity 

there he arranged with Ted Halmi, his publicity 

director when he was Orpheum manager, 

to go with Allen to Tulsa, Fort Smith 

and Little Rock. While here Allen garnered 

a lot of publicity in the dailies by his visits 

to local hospitals. 

John Howard, district manager for Selznick, 

was in Denver for conferences with 

M. R. Austin, Eagle Lion manager, and in 

company with Don Walker, publicity man, 

who was arranging a campaign on "Tlie 

Third Man." Also here for talks with Austin 

was John Leo, special representative of Jack 

Schlaifer, Eagle Lion sales manager. 

.4rchie Goldstein closed his Chieftain, 

Stresburg. for a couple of weeks when he 

remodeled the house . H. Rlcketson 

jr.. president of Fox Intermountain Theatres, 

is being mentioned as a strong candidate 

for governor of Colorado in the primaries. 

He has not as yet decided to run. 

Party leaders tried to get him to run for 

the U.S. .senate two years ago, but Ricketson 

declined. 

Lloyd Grove, owner of theatres in Minturn 

and Eagle, is the plea.sant victim of a couple 

of strange coincidences. When his first baby 

was born, one of his theatres was showing 

"Stork Bites Man." and just lately, when 

his second daughter, Karen Sue, was born, 

he had just finished showing "Family Honeymoon." 

The latest baby was born at a hospital 

in Glenwood Springs. Colo. 

Robert Patrick, owner of the Navajo here, 

is the father of a daughter Shirley Jean, 

born at General Rose Memorial hospital . . . 

Don Gillin, Universal salesman, has been 

moved to Los Angeles in a similar capacity. 

His job here went to John von Herberg, former 

salesman for Universal at Seattle. 

Robert Patrick, who is booking for seven 

drive-ins in addition to a number of regular 

theatres, reports two of his accounts, thase 

at Raton, N. M., and Delta. Colo., are operating. 

The Lakewood, Lakewood, Colo., in 

MR. THEATRE OWNER! 

Wo can sell your theatre. We hare buyera 

waiting. List your theatre with us and we 

THEATRE SALES CO. 

which Patrick is uilercsted. will open about 

April 15, and the plans call for the personal 

appearance of some Hollywood stars 

Theatre folk seen on Filmrow 

Robert Smith. Steamboat Spring.s. 

Gumper, Center: Lloyd Greve. Eagle: Walter 

Smith, North Platte, Neb.: Kenneth Powell, 

Wray: John Bohannan, Hatch, N. M.: L. P. 

Flower, Bayard, Neb., and Dave Warnock, 

Johnstown. 

Record of $2,500 Given 

In Brotherhood Drive 

DENVER—Tlie Brotlierhood drive in the 

Denver area finished with theatres sending 

in about $2,500, a record, and with exchanges 

reporting a 100 per cent compliance. The 

windup of the theatre drive was put in a 

national newsreel release by Fox Movietone, 

photographed by J. M. F. DuboLs, Denver 

newsreel cameraman. 

The newsreel showed numerous carrier 

pigeons returning to their home loft, with 

checks around their legs. The idea was fathered 

by Hall Baetz, Denver district manager 

for Fox Intermountain. and was put to use 

by Pat McGee and John Wolfberg, exhibitor 

chairmen, and William Hastings, publicity 

manager for the Denver area. Joe Emer.son, 

RKO manager, was distributor chairman. 



r

— 

Nine New Drive-ins to Open by June 1 

In Southern California Territory 

LOS ANGELES—That drive-in theatre 

growth is still mushrooming in southern California, 

where the ozoners first came into 

popular acceptance more than 15 years ago, 

became apparent when a tally disclosed that 

at least nine new open-air installations will 

begin operations between now and June 1 

marking what is probably the most intensive 

period for new drive-in openings in this 

area's history. 

First to tee off was the South Gate in 

South Gate, suburban community south of 

Los Angeles, which opened March 14. It is 

the first in a proposed chain of ozoners to 

be constructed by the Aladdin Drive-In Theatres 

Corp., organized by Jack Y. Berman, 

Harry Popkin (also a motion picture producer) 

and Arthur C. Ringer, who are associated 

also in operating the Eastland circuit 

of conventional indoor theatres. The 

South Gate has a 1,000-car capacity. 

Scheduled to open March 15 was Marvin 

Chesebrough's Los Feliz. a 600-car installation 

located in the Los Feliz district and 

managed by Tom Osa. 

April openings are planned for the Magnolia 

in Arlington, a 475-car drive-in owned 

by Frank Bersson and Walter Dennis, and 

a 600-car installation being constructed in 

the Palo Verde valley near Blythe, by Seth 

D. Perkins, pioneer in ozoner operations. 

Also set to open in April is the Sunset in 

San Luis Obispo, a 500-car drive-in owned 

by Don McClaren and Charles Pasquini. Mc- 

Claren, former branch manager for J. P. 

Filbert Co. here, served as his own architect. 

In May, Carl and Ford Bracther and Byron 

Congdon will launch operation of their Starlite, 

an 850-car drive-in in El Monte. June 

will see three others beginning operations 

the Sunland in Sunland, 650 cars, a unit in 

the James Edwards circuit; the Lancaster in 

Lancaster, 650 cars, owned by Jules Andreason 

and F. S. Scott, and the Lamont in La- 

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The StarUte, Sunland, Magnolia, Lancaster 

and Lamont were designed by architect J. 

Arthur Drielsma and feature all-steel screen 

towers, completely equipped snack bars, 

macadam-surfaced parking areas, and marquees 

equipped with changeable reader lines 

from four to five lines in height. 

First Shamrock to Open 

SAN JOSE, CALIF.—The 700-car Shamrock 

Drive-In, the first of three ozoners to 

be built in northern California by the Shamrock 

Amusement Co., is scheduled for an 

April 15 opening here. Costing approximately 

$200,000, it utilizes the latest RCA projection 

equipment, individual electric car heaters, a 

playgTound, picnic grounds and other recreational 

activities. 

The Shamrock corporation plans a second 

drive-in in Santa Rosa and a third in an 

as-yet unselected community, both to be 

constructed this year. 

President and director of the firm is R. J. 

Wilson, with L. C. Hallonquist as vice-president 

and general manager; H. J. Stockman, 

vice-president and secretary, and Larry 

Schultz, director. 

Plan Fortuna Drive-In 

FORTUNA, CALIF.—The first drive-in in 

Humboldt county will be erected by Maribel 

Theatres, Inc., on Route 101 between here 

and Rio Dell, according to Walter W. Bell, 

official of the firm. With a capacity of 500 

cars, the new open air theatre will be 

equipped with in-car speakers and heaters. 

Plan Springfield Drive-In 

SPRINGFIELD, ORE.—A 600-car drive-in 

is to be erected in the Weyerhaeuser Timber 

Co. area east of here, according to Harrison 

Dohrmann, manager of the Springfield Theatre. 

Plans now are being drawn by a local 

architect, and construction is expected to be 

started in April. 

Delay Oak Grove Opening 

OAK GROVE, ORE.—Opening of the 900- 

car drive-in now being erected by Amphitheatres, 

Inc., on McLoughlin boulevard here 

has been slated for March 25, according to 

Phil Polsky, president. 

Start Showboat Drive-In 

TRACY, CALIF.—Grading preliminary to 

construction of a drive-in on Route 50 east 

of here has been started, and the open air 

theatre is expected to be ready for opening 

in April. The drive-in is to be known as the 

Showboat. 

Scott Chain Builds at Taft 

TAFT, CALIF.—A new drive-in is being 

constructed on a ten-acre site on Sixth street 

here northeast of the Lincoln school for Scott 

Theatres, Inc., owners and operators of the 

Terrace Drive-In in Bakersfield and of a 

chain of drive-ins in Texas. 

Drive-In Projected 

For Paradise Area 

SAN FRANCISCO—Construction of a new 

drive-in will be started shortly at Paradise, 

according to Tom Whittemore, district manager 

for United California circuit, at the 

intersection of the Elliott and Neal roads. 

Plans for construction of a drive-in in 

Colusa have been announced by N. C. Steele. 

Meanwhile, construction has already started 

on a $150,000 drive-in at Grant road near 

El Camino Real in Mountain View, according 

to Bruno Vecchiarelli, district manager 

for Sunnymount chain. The theatre will have 

a new type of screen making matinees possible. 

Capacity will be 900 autos. 

Residents of the Richmond Heights and 

San Pablo area in Richmond have filed a 

petition against erection of a drive-in there. 

Ralph Sloniker has started a campaign to 

widen the streets in the area of the newly 

proposed drive-in. 

The Santa Clara county board of supervisors 

confirmed the county planning commission 

denial of a rezoning request to establish 

a drive-in on McGlincey Lane in the 

Cambrian district. Theatre planner J. M. 

Reiter is permitted under law to appeal from 

the action by commission and board. 

A new policy on handling requests for permits 

to construct drive-in theatres may result 

from recent series of applications for rezoning 

to permit such projects, according to 

the San Jose county planning commission. 

The commission rejected a petition of J. M. 

Reiter for rezoning of property on the northerly 

extension of McGlincey Lane off Casey 

road for construction of a drive-in. The commission 

agreed to consider future applications 

as use permits instead of rezoning requests. 

It was pointed out that some drive-ins fail 

in business and the abandoned area is zoned 

commercial ever after. A use permit will allow 

such areas to retain zoning. 

In San Francisco, no date has been set 

for further consideration of the city planning 

commission postponement on request to rezone 

eight acres at Clarendon avenue and 

Laguna Honda boulevard to permit construction 

of a drive-in, and the request to rezone 

property on Alemany boulevard west of Gates 

street, also for construction of a drive-in. 

Jim Banducci to Build 

BAKERSFIELD. CALIF. — Jim Banducci 

will build a 650-car drive-in in subiurban 

Lamont that will cost "considerably more 

than $100,000." This will be his first venture 

into the drive-in field, but he has three 

indoor theatres in the 1.000 -seat bracket— 

the River in Oildale and the Arvin and the 

R.ancho in Arvin, 20 miles south of here. 

The drive-in will have all the latest features, 

including a playground for children, 

a modern restaurant to accommodate not 

only the theatregoers, but also patrons just 

wishing to dine. This restaurant, Jim explained, 

will be located directly under the 

screen tower, and a large parking lot will be 

provided for diners. 

The theatre will be opened about May 15. 

In keeping with the Banducci pohcy, only 

the latest "family type" pictures will be 

booked, Banducci said. The opening performance 

will be handled as a benefit for 

local service clubs. 

58 

BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18, 1950

. . Change 

. . . Ray 

. . The 

. . The 

From the BOXOFFICE Files 

• • • 

(Twenty Years Ago) 

gAN FRANCISSCO Piiblix managers gathered 

at the Granada Theatre recently to 

hear a talk addressed to the managers of 

1,200 Publlx theatres by President Sam Katz 

in New York. The 20-minute address would 

have ordinarily required two months of his 

time. 

• • « 

Film Trade Topics facetiously reports from 

San Francisco: "With the closing of the 

Arbuckle Theatre. Arbuckle. Ned Steele informs 

us that he will open the old Star Theatre, 

renaming it the Arbuckle. So Arbuckle's 

loss of the Arbuckle Theatre simply brings 

the Arbuckle Tlieatre back to Arbuckle." 

Warren Stokes is editor and manager of the 

weekly periodical Film Trade Topics, one of 

the nine Associated Publications, each regional 

section having a different title and 

localized news, but offering the same national 

news. 

The Regent Theatre in San Francisco, 

formerly owned by A. Blanco, has been sold 

to A. Arguello . of ownership is 

announced on the Varsity Theatre. Davis, 

Calif., and the Lux in San Francisco. The 

Varsity went from J. C. Luft to Oliver Luft. 

The Lux from R. Schmidt to Tony Lamuth. 

Robert Blair has been appointed director 

of the Pacific Northwest Theatres for Publix. 

For the past several seasons he has been 

managing director of the Seattle Theatre in 

Seattle. Succeeding Blair as managing director 

of the Seattle is William A. Hartung, 

with the Orpheum circuit for the last 25 

years. 

Said to be the first commercial product 

of its kind in Oregon, an automatic changeover 

has been installed in the operating room 

of the Columbia Theatre in Portland. It is 

working perfectly and is somewhat revolutionary 

in labor saving. It is known as the 

Crabtree changeover device. 

* • • 

Joe Bauer, whose theatre in the Mission, 

the Wigwam, was so named because it was 

housed in a tent soon after the disaster of 

1906, is again associated in its ownership and 

management, reopening as the New Rialto. 

Bauer will direct policy, while A. A. Hixon, 

formerly of Minneapolis, will act as manager 

Charter Theatre Firm 

HELENA. MONT.—Articles of incorporation 

have been approved by the secretary of 

state for the Rocky Mountain Theatre Corp.. 

Livingston. The organization was capitalized 

at $100,000 and directors are listed as 

John H. Moran and Elmer J. Jackson of 

Laurel and Kathryn A. Morgan of Billings. 

Motorene Opens for Season 

BOULDER, COLO.—Tlie Motorene Drivein 

east of town recently opened for the season. 

Dick Koenig is manager. 

Denver Advertising Co. 

Enters Poster Business 

DENVER The Denver Advertising Co., 

headed by Ted Halmi, has gone into the theatre 

poster business and will handle and 

manufacture all .sorts of date strips, banners 

and posters, handling everything necessary 

for theatre advertising excepting mats and 

trailers. The company has taken the franchise 

of Tlieatre Poster, Inc., Detroit, and 

will stock all of its material, in addition to 

material of its own manufacture. Having a 

complete screen, sign and art shop at 1456 

Welton, the company will originate ideas 

besides turning out the material. 

Ted Halmi, head of the company, was in 

theatre exploitation work for many years 

before going into the poster business, having 

been with the Orpheum here for 18 years, and 

before that with Paramount theatres In various 

parts of the country. 

The company also has the franchise for 

the use of Day-Glo paint for posters, which 

sparkles when used with black light. 

Blaze Destroys Theatre 

In Priest River, Ida. 

PRIEST RIVER, IDA.—Tlie Priest Theatre 

here, acquired recently by Mr. and Mrs. 

Charles Bishop, was destroyed by fire. The 

Bishops, owners of houses in lone. Cusick 

and Metaline Falls, acquired theatres here, 

Garfield and Palouse. 

The purchase of the three theatres was 

made from Mr. and Mrs. Lee Frakes, with 

whom the Bishops have been associated in 

film buying for several years. 

Warner Zone Managers 

To Meeting in New York 

LOS ANGELES—Among delegates to a 

meeting of Warner circuit zone managers in 

New York were Ben H. Wallerstein, assistant 

to Lou J. Halper, Pacific Coast zone chief 

for the chain, and Leo Miller, film buyer, 

both headquartering here. 

Chairman of the session was Harry M. 

Kalmine, president and general manager of 

the Warner circuit. 

Longview, Wash.. Drive-In 

Is Leased to Sterling 

LONGVIEW, WASH.—The drive-in opened 

near here by Dr. G. H. Mathis has been leased 

by him for one year to Sterling Theatres. 

Mathis said that his decision to lease the project 

was determined by the fact that the circuit 

probably would have built a drive-in here, 

and that the area was not large enough to 

warrant operation of two open air theatres. 

John Roberts Builds Ozoner 

DENTVER—John Roberts, owner of theatres 

in both Fort Morgan and Bru.sh, Colo., 

is building a S50.000, 400-car drive-in between 

the two cities, which are about ten 

miles apart. It will be ready for a spring 

opening. 

SALT LAKE CITY 

•The .Vutoriuni became the first drive-in in 

the Salt Lake area to open. It braved cold 

nights and snow squalls to start operations 

last weekend Riverdale drlve-ln 

. 

opened two weeks ago ... A new drive-in 

will open at Layton. Utah, this spring. Arthur 

W. Thomassen of Kaysville. Mrs. J. J. 

Bugger of Layton and her two .sons J. A. 

and John J. are scheduled to operate an 

ozoner a mile and one-half north of Layton 

on Highway 91 within a few weeks ... At 

the other end of the state, an outdoor theatre, 

not a drive-in, will open on Easter Sunday. 

The theatre will provide a recreational area 

for citizens of the area. 

Milt Watt, Selznlck representative, has been 

in Salt Lake for the last ten days working 

on a campaign for "The Third Man," going 

into the Uptown and Villa theatres. Oddly 

enough, when he was in Salt Lake before— 

three years ago, working on "Duel in the 

Sun"—the flying saucer craze was the biggest 

topic of conversation, and flying .saucers are 

in the news here again. 

The Firmages, Roy, Bill sr. and Bill jr.. 

and their in-law. Carl Rummler, who operate 

showhouses in Milford. Parowan and Beaver. 

Utah, were on the Row together. They reported 

business in their situations is way 

down . Central Utah Amusement Co. 

will open a drive-in this spring in American 

Pork, and John Miller is speeding construction 

on another indoor theatre in American 

Pork. He already operates one. 

George Smith is building a showhouse near 

the ball park at Magna, where he has operated 

a theatre for years . . . George Leany. 

whose father was elected mayor of Lehi. has 

taken over operation of the Leany Mercantile 

Co.. along with the theatre while the elder 

Leany is in office. 

Dick Iba has transferred to Monogram 

from U-I as Utah salesman. He moved into 

the newly decorated Monogram offices, which 

are something to behold. The colors look 

like something in a home. The office has 

been enlarged, also. 

Charles L. Walker, 20th-Pox manager, has 

returned from Chicago and a company meeting. 

He is planning a regional meeting as 

outlined at the Chicago sesôn ... A bowling 

tournament will be held by members of the 

Motion Picture club April 1. A Calcutta is 

scheduled at the club house the previous 

evening. 

Election for Variety, which will replace the 

Motion Picture club, is .scheduled for April 7 

M. Hendry, associate general manager 

of Intermountain Theatres, reports 

Utah's congressional members have said they 

will vote for repeal of the admissions tax. 


Buy San Francisco Sunset 

CRAWFORD, NEB.— Harry J. and Isabella 

Strohmeyer, former owners of the Elite Theatre 

here, have purcha.sed the Sunset Theatre 

in San Francisco from Bob Gingerlch. 

Purchase latum, N. M., Mesa 

LOVINGTON. N. M.—Mr. and Mrs. Bonner 

have purchased the Me.sa Theatre at Tatum 

from F. N. and Gobb Burns. Dwight White 

will continue at the house as projectionist. 


59

— 

Levy on Amusements in 

Australia 

Reaches Average of $2.50 a Head 

By WILLIAM BEECHAM 

Australian Representative, Boxoffice 

PERTH. W. A.—It has been revealed that 

during the financial year July 1, 1948-June 

30, 1949, the Australian government received 

£8,865,000 in entertainment tax collections. 

This was a matter of £1 2s. 9d. (just over 

$2.50) per head of population. 

Film industry executives are seriously concerned 

at the fact that the cost of living 

continues to rise while admission prices to 

theatres remain static. Even if admission 

prices are increased there will still be concern 

over the fact that the average family 

today is finding it more and more difficult 

to make ends meet, despite the continued 

increase in the basic wage. 

* * « 

The Victorian Institute of Public Affairs 

says: "The Australian economy is caught up 

in a massive wave of infiltration. There has 

been nothing comparable to the magnitude 

of the present monetary expansion in the 

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MEL DANNER—Owner of the 

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Camden, N. J. 

economic history of the last three decades. 

One of the main problems at the moment 

is the rising cost of living." 

An indication of how certain sections of 

workers are forcing up costs can be gauged 

from the fact that wharf laborers at Fremantle 

are now seeking £24 (about $54) 

for a 40-hour week with the payment of £10 

16s. (about $24) if they work on a Sunday. 

In addition they want a matter of £2 4s. 

(about $5) if they "attend" at the wharf 

when no other work offers, and five weeks' 

holiday per year with full pay, with seven 

weeks on full pay after seven years' work. 

This means that each year a wharf worker 

would have to be paid £168 ($378) in hard 

cash before he left for his holiday. This at 

a time when the average worker is receiving 

around $18 weekly in wages. Is it any wonder 

that other industries where selling prices 

(such as theatre admissions) are fixed rigidly 

are finding many difficulties? Is it any 

wonder that Norman B. Rudge recently stated 

that it is impossible to build a new theatre 

and make it pay? 

* * * 

Whether television takes business from the 

Australian theatre or not when it is introduced 

here (probably in about two years' 

time), exhibitors are faced with quite a number 

of headaches. Many state that unless 

the quality of many features released is 

vastly improved they will be in a bad spot. 

Several industrial oil companies are offering 

free film shows in both city and country 

centers, amateur theatrical groups are becoming 

an increasing field of competition, 

and outdoor counter attractions are becoming 

increasingly numerous. Outlook for the exhibitor 

in many ways is not particularly 

bright. Leading circuits are making drives 

for efficiency, courtesy, cleanliness and all 

the things which aid good business, but many 

smaller exhibitors content themselves with 

complaining. The fact that there is still a 

vast untapped potential audience which seldom 

or never attends the theatre seems to 

be noted, but, except for a move made by 

two of the leading circuits, merely left at 

that. It would seem to a few observers that 

a man who could originate a method of making 

these nonattenders really interested in 

the theatre would become a big name in the 

history of the entertainment business. 

Perhaps the future has one bright spot in 

the increasing popularity of films in schools. 

According to many school teachers, radio 

is losing its popularity to films in teaching. 

Last year, it is recorded, one leading Australian 

school did not use its radio set once 

for instructional purposes, yet films were 

frequently screened. 

Features starring Ingrid Bergman have 

been booked solidly here and publicity surrounding 

the star has not done anything but 

bring extra money into Australian boxoffices. 

"Under Capricorn" is listed for early release 

at the Century, Sydney. 

"Films," says a leading Australian educational 

authority, "have the advantages of two 

mediums of instruction, sight and speech, 

and there is no difficulty in keeping the 

constant attention of the children." So far 

as the entertainment industry is concerned, 

films in schools will tend to make all children 

film-minded and screenings will tend to become 

one of the regular features of life. 

Producer Lesley Selander and camera expert 

Russell Harlan have arrived in Sydney 

to work on the American-Australian film, 

"The Kangaroo Kid." Four Hollywood performers 

are expected to follow within a few 

days, and work for over 30 Australians will 

be provided by the making of this film. 

"Sword in the Desert" will, it is expected, 

be screened here despite some controversy 

which has been raised in certain quarters. 

KTTV Gets Nassour Space 

To Produce Video Films 

HOLLYWOOD—Sound stages and office 

space at the Nassour studios, rental lot operated 

by William and Edward Nassour, have 

been leased by Station KTTV, video outlet 

operated here by the Los Angeles Times as a 

CBS affiliate. The station will launch production 

almost immediately on a series of 

six to eight half-hour film programs for 

telecasting, distribution of which will be 

handled by KTTV's Television Recording 

Corp., in association with the Nassours. 

Charles Rosher Wins First 

ASC Monthly Award 

HOLLYWOOD—Winner of the American 

Society of Cinematographers' first monthly 

award for photography is Charles Rosher, 

who lensed MGM's "The Red Danube." The 

presentation of monthly kudos will culminate 

next December with the choice of the year's 

best cameraman. Rosher won out over MGM's 

"Adam's Rib," photographed by George Folsey, 

and Paramount's "Thelma Jordon," 

lensed by George Barnes. 

Ascap Members to Meet 

To Discuss Operations 

HOLLYWOOD — Ascap operations under 

the recently arranged consent decree will be 

discussed by the organization's west coast 

members at a general meeting March 27, to 

be attended by eastern representatives including 

President Fred Ahlert: John Tasker 

Howard, chairman of the executive committee, 

and Herman Finkelstein, general counsel. 

L. Wolfe Gilbert, Ascap Pacific coast representative, 

will preside. 

Name Press Relations Men 

HOLLYWOOD — A four-man press 

relations 

subcommittee representing the major 

studios has been appointed by the studio 

publicity directors committee of the Ass'n 

of Motion Picture Producers. Appointees are 

Ralph Jordan, MGM; Sam Israel, U-I; Andy 

Hervey, Paramount, and Speed Kendall, 20th 

Century-Fox. They will survey operations 

of all major studio publicity departments and 

will report their recommendations for 

strengthening liaison between studios and 

the Hollywood and Los Angeles press and for 

enlarging service to the press. 




lATSE Officials Feied 

By Si Louis Local 

ST. LOUTS—lATSE President Richard P. 

Walsh of 

New York City and Representative 

Frank Stickling of Joliet. 111., were given 

gold life membership cards in Local 6 of the 

stagehands union in special ceremonies here 

recently. The presentation was made by Local 

6 President Leroy Upton in recognition of 

the efficient way in which the affairs of the 

local were handled dm-ing the period it was 

under the administration of Stickling on 

orders from President Walsh. 

Upton said the affairs of the local were so 

well handled under Stickling's administration 

that it had $8,000 more in the treasury 

at the end of it than it had when the local 

was taken over by the national body in the 

fall of 1946. Several weeks ago the international 

body restored local autonomy to the 

union and Upton again was elected to the 

presidency. 

Ed Silverman Returns 

From Hollywood Trip 

CHICAGO—Edwin Silverman, 

president of 

Essaness circuit, has returned from his Hollywood 

trip and reports are that he is not interested 

in TV plans. 

Ralph Smitha. Essaness vice-president, said 

the circuit is modernizing its Crown and 

Buckingham theatres on the north side of 

Chicago. He reported the new 4-Screen 

Drive-In on the far south side of the city 

may be ready for May 1 opening. The ozoner 

will have room for 1.200 cars and have the 

first four-screen installation in the Chicago 

territory. 

Back From Washington 

CHICAGO—James Gregory, vice-president 

of Alliance circuit, and Peter Panagos, production 

and promotion manager, returneii 

from an inspection trip of the Midstates 

circuit in Washington state, and Alliance 

subsidiary. The new theatre in Richland. 

Wash., is expected to be ready for occupancy 

this spring. 

Mailers to Build at Warsaw 

WARSAW. IND.—Mailers Bros., owners of 

the Lake and Centennial theatres here, will 

build a $100,000 drive-in on Highway 30 one 

mile west of Warsaw to accommodate 500 

cars. Work is scheduled to begin as soon as 

weather permits, and is expected to be completed 

by June 1. said Nick Mailers. The 

theatre will be located on the north side and 

about 300 feet from the highway. 

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ST. 

LOUIS 

Twentieth Century-Fox will conduct an allday 

showmanship meeting for theatre 

owners, managers and advertising and publicity 

men at the Chase hotel, starting at 

10 a. m. March 21. Gordon Halloran, local 

manager, will preside. Halloran and 

Aaron, division manager, returned from the 

national showmanship gathering in Chicago 

last week . . . Arthur McManus of 20th-Fox 

was called to New York City by the death 

of his mother. Another son Elliott is 20th- 

Fox manager in Panama. 

. 

B. J. McCarthy of Republic has joined Eagle 

Lion, replacing M. J. Steinberg, Illinois salesman, 

who resigned when he purchased an interest 

in and took over the management of 

the Ritz in East Alton. Dave Kramer of 

Warners joined RKO, replacing Jack Hynes, 

who resigned to become the Missouri reprei?entative 

for Cougar Film Advertising Co., 

Independence, Mo. Williamson 

jr. has joined Eagle Lion as an assistant 

booker. 

Exhibitors on Fllmrow: Frank X. Reller, 

Wentzville; Harry Blount, Potosi; Bud Mercier, 

Fredericktown; Howard Bates, Cape 

Drive-In, Cape Girardeau: B. Temborius, 

Breese, 111.; Mrs. Catherine Beckmeyer, Trenton, 

111.; Joe Goldfarb, Upper Alton; Gus 

Boemler, North Alton . Carver Theatre 

here has purchased 356 Irwin chairs from Joe 

Hornstein, Inc. 

. . . Arthur 

Note for film salesmen: Bids will be taken 

April 3 on the construction of a six-story 

60-room hotel at Kennett, Mo. 

Lubin flew in from Hollywood to attend the 

annual dinner of the Missouri G. I. Ass'n 

at which "Francis" was screened ... Ed 

Crooks, one of the owners of the 300-seat 

Family Theatre in Quincy, died. His brother 

Charles will continue to operate the theatre. 

Sales in St. Louis department stores dived 

9 per cent during the week ended on March 

4, Federal Reserve bank reports, under the 

same week in 1949 . . . Bill Williams of 

Union, Mo., is convalescing after an appendectomy. 

Johnny Meinardi, district manager, and 

Russell Mortensen, booker, attended a Fox 

Midwest meeting in Kansas City this week 

. . . J. B. Giachetto. general manager of the 

Frisina circuit, is in Florida on a vacation 

Rodgers of the Rodgers circuit, 

Cairo, was due back from a Florida vacation 

Tuesday (14). 

Mrs. Charles Weeks sr., Dexter, Mo., fractured 

an arm in two places in a fall and was 

taken to a hospital in Poplar Bluff. Her son 

Charles operates the Gem and Weeks theatres 

in Dexter . Kahan, head of the 

Harry and Meyer Kahan Film Delivery Service, 

moved into his new home in University 

City. 

Sam Nieberg, who owns the Ken Theatre 

in Nameoki, 111., is reconverting the 400 Club 

building at 3631 Grandel Square here into a 

theatre. It is understood it will be a de luxe 

house for Negroes and whites. The building 

originally was the home of the German stock 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE COMBINATION £XIT 

and EXIT DRIVEWAY FLOODLIGHT 

Also available with Entrance Panels 

Arrows may be cither right or left. 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. ^^^r 

company prior to World War I and later became 

the Fox Liberty Theatre. It also had 

brief careers as a burlesque house and as a 

combination theatre. 

Walter Light, who owns the Gem and Joy 

theatre buildings in Chester 111., now leased 

to the Turner-Farrar circuit, called on old 

friends in the film business here. He now 

lives in University City .... Mary Margaret 

Happy Heitmann, 4 years old, granddaughter 

of Mr. and Mrs. Fred W. Heitmann here, has 

been given a part in a Monogram picture, 

"Humphrey Takes a Chance." 

RUTH I. SMITH— Manager, 

Miami Drive-In Theatre, Dayton, 

Ohio—says: 

"My patrons tell me that we 

have the finest sound in the 

Dayton area and that is why 

they Uke to come to the Miami 

Drive-In Theatre. Of course, 

RCA Service keeps the system 

at peak efficiency." 

— 




Camden, N. J. 

r MANLEY 

SUPPLIES 

M the Cheapest 

BUT THE 

I'll 

Prove It! 

* 

BEST 

MAILEV, lie. 

L FRANK p. MORRIS a 

\ 3138 OUve St. Louis, Mo. I 

B Ne. 7644 1 

I 

S2 BOXOFFICE March 18, 1950

. . Elenora 

. . Carl 

. . Roy 

. "Nancy 

. . The 

. . 

. . 

Jack Kirsch Names 

Cross Drive Aides 

CHICAGO—Jack Kirsch. presiclcnt of Allied 

Theatres of Illinois and chainiuui of the 

amusement and recreation division for the 

Red Cross drive, has appointed the following 

committees: 

Circuits: John Balaban, Elmer Balaban. 

James E. Coston. James Gregory. John Jones. 

Arthur Schoenstadt. Edwin Silverman and 

Prank Smith. 

Independent theatres: Charles Lindau. 

Saul Lockwood, Howard Lubliner, Sinuel 

Roberts and Jack Rose. 

Distributors: Lou Herman. William Davaney 

and Jack Shumow. 

Theatre equipment and supplies: Harold 

Abbott. Bob Flannery and Sam Levinsohn. 

In addition Kirsch named committees for 

night clubs, bowling alleys and leagues, ballrooms 

and skating rinks, theatrical agents, 

sports, unions, legitimate theatres and nontheatrical 

film companies. 

Clermont Drive-In to Open 

for Paul Boatman 

May 1 

CLERMONT, IND.—The new Dc Luxe 

Drive-In here will be opened May 1 by Paul 

A. Boatman, owner, of Veedersburg. The 

500-car open-airer cost about $60,000 and was 

designed by architect Hugh Dargitz of Greenwood. 

Located on Highway 34. the drive-in 

has been under way since last November. 

Equipment includes Brenkert projectors and 

RCA sound. Concession building was erected 

of Haydite blocks and the screen tower is of 

steel construction. 

Features of the drive-in are a children's 

playground and a picnic area. 

Buy at Prescott, Wis. 

PRESCOTT. WIS.—Tlie St. Croix Theatre 

has been sold to Mr. and Mrs. Keith Deluhrey 

of Alexanderia, Minn., by Mr. and Mrs. 

Frank Drefke, who have operated the house 

since December 1948. 

Drive-In to O. W. McCutcheon 

SIKESTON. MO.—O. W. McCutcheon of 

Blytheville, Ark., has purcha.sed the 450-car 

Sikeston Drive-In from Sam Potashnick. 

Cape Girardeau, who recently bought out his 

parner O. D. Clayton in the airer. Mc- 

Cutcheon also owns the Malone and Rex theatres 

here. 



NOW — COMPLETE POSTER 

RENTAL SERVICE. 

NOW — STANDARD AND SPECIAL- 

TIES — BEAUTIFUL GLO-ART 

40x60's, 30x40's AND BANNERS. 

Midwest Poster Exchange 

"OUR SERVICE ADVERTISES" 

Tel. WEBster 9-4466 

1220 So. Michigan Ave., Chicago 5, Dlinoia 

MILWAUKEE 

. . . Apparently 

Olroniboli" is being shown at the downtown 

Riverside as a first run with no comment 

from the Milwaukee Motion Picture commission, 

the group that reports to the mayor on 

films, nor any other group 

no theatres were forced to close or run on 

short rations during the coal strike. 

Variety Club of Milwaukee met and voted 

to give $20,000 to $25,000 a year to the Heart 

Ass'n activities in Wisconsin. The charity 

committee was made up of Chief Barker 

Gene Kilburg and Barkers Charles Trampe 

and Howard Gleason . Atlas Theatre 

on Upper Third street, which has been closed 

for remodeling for months, will be opened 

soon under the name of the Century, according 

to Carl Ames, architect for the house. 

The Atlas is owned by John Freuler, who 

also operates the Mid City downtown. 

"The Prince of Peace" opened at the Alhambra 

downtown . Goes to Rio" 

started its second week at the Towne . 

Early bird prices of 42 cents, plus tax, have 

been established between 5:30 and 6:30 weekdays 

at the Tower and Oriental, St. Cloud 

Amusement hou.ses . . . The Fox-Downer offered 

"Life of Van Gogh." 

Barbara Schultz, formerly of United Artists, 

has taken the receptionist post at RKO, 

replacing Gloria Van Ryzin, who resigned to 

be married . Horn of Gallagher 

Films returned to the office after a tonsillectomy 

. . . Winners in the gin rummy contest 

at Variety Tent 14 were Lou Elman. RKO 

manager, first: David Goldman. U-I. second: 

Harry Rosenband. Standard Theatres, and 

George Edgerton of 20th-Fox, tied for third. 

. 

. 

Russ Leddy of the Orpheum. Green Bay, 

was a visitor . . Ditto Allen U.sher. Woods, 

. 

Woodruff Schallitz. district manager 

for Columbia, visited Harry Olshan. local 

manager Bernier. formerly in 

charge of Warners .screening room now publicity 

and personnel manager for Miller Browing 

Co., returned to his home from the hospital 

to convalesce after a heart attack. 

. . . 

Kay Bonner of Gallagher Films took his 

father to the ho.spital for an operation . 

Auditor Wuest of RKO was here and will go 

Anna 

on to the Minneapolis exchange 

Vishing, cashier for U-I, planned a party for 

13 friends and called the Auditorium boxoffice 

to reserve 14 tickets to the Horace 

Heidt show. When the girls got to the auditorium, 

the ticket man had reserved tickets 

to the "fights." 

S. G. Honeck sr., former .salesman for 

Screen Guild, is now sales manager for Dolls 

of Dolls, makers of the Prayer doll . . . Among 

visitors at the Ray Smith Tlieatre Supply 

offices were Hap Nelson of the Rio. Rio: Erv 

Koenig.sreiter. Douglas, Racine, and Russ 

Leddy, Orpheum. Green Bay. 

Continue Antitrust Trial 

ST. LOUIS—Due to the illne.ss of C. O 

Inman. one of the attorneys for the plaintiffs, 

the antitrust damage suits of Victor G. Massotti 

and Martin W. D'Arcy. former les.sees of 

the Shubert Theatre, against Fanchon & 

Marco and film distributors, has been continued 

to October 15 by U.S. District Judge 

George H. Moore. 

Lower Rates in Missouri 

On Jobless Insurance 

JEFFERSON CITY—Some 2.287 

employers 

of Mi.ssouri will save about $5,598,000 during 

1950 by a downward revision of the rates of 

unemployment compensation insurance rates, 

Charles A. Rlcker. director of the Missouri 

division of employment security, has estimated. 

The $5,598,000 reduction in payments by 

employers will be effected in two ways. Under 

an amendment to the unemployment 

compensation law pas-sed by the general assembly 

last year, 1.955 employers will save 

$3,422,627 because they were able to establish 

experience ratings of zero by maintaining 

stability in their employment. Another group 

of 331 employers who made voluntary contributions 

of $508,186 will save $2,175,992 

through the experience ratings they were able 

to establish in that manner, Rlcker said. 

I'KTKR M. 

WKLLMAN— Owner, 

I'. M.Wellman'rh«'atre.s( 10 theatres. 

4 drive-ins), (lirard, Ohio—says: 

"Sound equipment in my theatres 

is of No. 1 importance to me. 

I've found what I want in RCA 

equipment and UCA Service." 




Camden, New Jersey. 

SIGNS 

MARQUEES 

ÂTTRACTION 

BOARDS 

W/?/r£ Off iVIBf 

lADV^SERVICC 

M^Rion. inD\f\r\A 

"Sign and Lighting Sp«- 

nalitl.. lo' Ov>i a 

QuatlsT C»nlury." 

REASONABLE 

PRICES 

BOXOFHCE March 18, 1950 

63

. . Al 

. . Warners 

. . Monogram 

. . "Under 

. . Herman 

. . Jerome 

. . 

. . 

Indiana Allied to Sponsor 

Drive-ln Session April 5 

INDIANAPOLIS—Service to drive-in members 

of the Associated Theatre Owners of 

Indiana, covering construction, operations, 

film booking and buying, and concessions, 

will be offered under the supervision of a 

committee headed by J. R. Pell. 

The recently appointed committee met here 

last week at the Athletic Club at the call of 

A. J. Hansen, temporary chairman. The 

group divided the drive-in problems into four 

divi.sions, and named a subcommittee to take 

charge of supplying regular information on 

each. 

M. H. Scheidler, Hartford City, and Roy 

Klaver were named to the subcommittee on 

new building, alteration, supplies and equipment. 

Roy O'Keefe was named on the subcommittee 

on operations, personnel and dayto-day 

management policies. Hansen and 

E. L. Ornstein will set up a service to supply 

information on film booking and buying. 

This may employ Allied Caravan facilities. 

Alex Manta, Hammond, heads the 

subgroup on vending methods and .supplies. 

The committee decided to invite all drivein 

operators, members or not, to a general 

outdoor theatre gathering to be held at the 

Athletic club April 5. Jack Braunagel, head 

of drive-in operations for Commonwealth 

Theatres of Kansas City, will be asked to 

speak. 

Members of the ATOI drive-in committee 

I 

THEATRE EQUIPMENT 

442 NORTH ILLINOIS STREET 

INDIANAPOLIS 

INDIANA 

COMPLETE THEATRE 

RCA EQUIPMENT 

MID-W€ST TH€ATR€ 

SUPPLY COMPANY, Inc. 

Ril 

448 North niinoiB St. 

Twenty-jour hour service 

WANTED: Top manager for deluxe type 

iheatre in small midwest city. Substantial 

salary. Big opportunity. Only experienced, 

ambitious, iive-wire men need apply. 

Write Mr. Roland Viner, Anderson Theatre 

Corporation, Morris, Illinois. 

are Hansen, Pell, O'Keefe, Roy Klaver, Ornstein, 

Scheidler and W. A. Carroll. Trueman 

Rembusch, ATOI president, attended 

the session. 

INDIANAPOLIS 

TXrllliam Wallace, former operator of the 

V Theatre at Veedersburg, has succeeded 

Russell Bleeke as office manager and head 

booker at Republic . Pictures 

tradescreened "Young Daniel Boone," a Cinecolor 

production, at the U-I screening room. 

. 

. . . Clyde Brandt, operator 

Keith's switched to a Friday change and 

Loew's to Saturday . My Skin" was 

Walter Frie, 

tradescreened by 20th-Fox . . . 

Fort Wayne Drive-In, has acquired the Wayne 

Auto Air Drive-In from Horace Shock 

R. E. Moon, division manager for 20th-Fox, 

was at the local branch . Hallberg, 

20th-Fox salesman, was home several days 

with influenza 

of the Virginia, Terre Haute, acquired the 

Lyceum there. 

Exhibitors on Filmrow: Fletcher Brewer, 

State, Lafayette; T. J. Arrington. Arrington, 

New Haven; Earl Payne, Switow circuit, 

Louisville; Clyde Brandt, Virginia, Terre 

Haute; Tom Goodman, Dream, Poseyville, 

Strand, New Harmony; F. C. Kohlhorst, Fairy, 

Napanee . B. Richey, manager of the 

Alhambra, Knightstown, and Doris Ulrey, 

were married at the Friends church here . 

Harry Van Noy of the Van Noy, Middletown, 

and wife were vacationing in Florida. 

.4ngelo Chiarnoza of the Grand at Cambridge 

City is contemplating a trip to Italy, 

his native land, to visit relatives he hasn't 

seen in 25 years . . . C. A. Stucky of Montpelier, 

operator of the Warren at Cayuga and 

the Montezuma at Montezuma and a drive-in 

at Angola, inspected the latter situation . . . 

Milton Krueger, salesman for Realart, attended 

the opening of the Star at Russell 

Springs, Ky. 

Nancy Sullivan, cashier at RKO, is vacationing 

. is promoting the Claude 

McKean week May 28 through June 3 in 

honor of Manager Claude McKean . . . Practically 

all drive-in theatres in this exchange 

area are planning to open by April 1. 

Lois Donahey, secretary at the Quimby 

Theatres office in Fort Wayne, is spending 

her vacation in Evansville . Abrams, 

optometrist son of Sam Abrams, Film Classics 

manager, was a recent guest on the Catherine 

Daniels program over station WISH. 

He discu.ssed the saving of children's vision. 

Orders Booth Equipment 

ST. LOUTS—The Kay Drive-In being constructed 

on the old auto racetrack east of 

town by Merle Richardson and his brother, 

lumber company men here, has placed an 

order with National Theatre Supply in St. 

Louis for booth equipment. A May 15 opening 

is planned. 

Suburban Site Acquired 

By L. F. Gran, Milwaukee 

MILWAUKEE—The mansion and grounds 

of the Our Lady convent in suburban Wauwatosa 

have been sold to Gran Enterprises, 

Inc., headed by L. F. Gran. The price was 

given as $85,000 for the property. It is not 

known what use the Gran Properties will 

make of the land and building, but it is assumed 

that a theatre will be built on the 

site. The council has been asked to rezone 

the site to permit the erection of a building 

to house a theatre and store, with a parking 

lot. The site now is zoned for residential 

purposes only. 

It is reported the request had been referred 

to the zoning committee, then was later withdrawn. 

Gran also is general manager of Standard 

Theatres, operator of a chain of theatres. 

David E. McFarling Named 

Tell City Swiss Manager 

TELL CITY, IND.—David Earl McFarling 

has taken over as manager of the Swiss Theatre 

here, succeeding Silver Raley, who has 

managed the house since its opening 19 

months ago. Raley, who also is a stockholder 

in the Swiss Theatre owning corporation, has 

resigned and has not yet announced future 

plans. 

McFarling has been working with Raley 

since about three weeks after the theatre 

opened. He was named a director of the corporation 

at a recent meeting of the board. 

Illinois Allied Prepares 

Fight on Bad Publicity 

Rites for J. F. Knoepfler, 

Rio Theatre Boothman 

CHICAGO—Allied Theatres Ass'n of Illinois 

held a meeting recently, with Jack 

Kirsch presiding, to work out plans to fight 

adverse film publicity and push advantages 

of neighborhood theatres in community development. 

Kirsch will ask circuits to aid in the drive 

for better public film understanding and cooperation. 

ST. LOUIS—Funeral services were held 

here recently for John F. Knoepfler, 63, projectionist 

and early member of operators 

union Local 143, who died at Alexian Brothers 

hospital after an illness of several months. 

Interment was at Lakewood Park cemetery. 

Knoepfler had been a member of the union 

since October 1909 and had worked as projectionist 

at many local theatres. For the last 

ten years he had been employed at the Rio 

Theatre. 

Ted Grant to New Post 

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO.—Ted Grant, who 

has been associated with theatres in Chicago 

and Kansas City, has been named manager 

of the Esquire Theatre here by Bill and Irwin 

Dubinsky, operators of the house. 

OHicials Favor Daylight Time 

INDIANAPOLIS — City officials, including 

three council members, are in favor of daylight 

saving, which the 1949 legislature made 

64 BOXOFFICE :: March 18, 1950 

illegal.

Variely's Fund Drive 

Nears $12,000 Goal 

MINNEAPOLIS—Northwest Variety Club 

turned on the heat as its drive to raise an 

additional $12,000 for the heart hospital project 

entered its final stage. The hospital now 

is under construction on the University of 

Minnesota campus. Two thou.sand one-sheets 

advertising the $12,000 Safety Slogan contest 

went up on theatre billboards throughout 

the northwest, and 50.000 handbills are to be 

distributed. 

The state's 50 radio and television stations 

are using 30-second and one-minute plugs 

daily. Included in the radio setup are transcriptions 

made by Burl Ives, Bert Wheeler, 

Hem-y Wilcoxon and George Mikan, the 

last named one of basketball's alltime greats 

and a member of the Minneapolis Lakers' 

team. 

Still on the fire are plans for live TV 

and radio show, according to Al Bloom, veteran 

exploiteer and publicity man, who is 

handling the campaign. 

Club members also planned to have a booth 

at the northwest Sportsmen's Show at the 

Auditorium here. There'll be exhibited there 

the $7,800 Chris Craft Cruiser motor boat, 

the contest's first prize. Contest entries will 

be accepted at the show. 

Contest rules call for safety slogans of 

five words or less, accompanied by a cash 

donation of $1 or more to be sent to Box 1007, 

Minneapolis post office, or turned in at the 

show before midnight April 12. 

Mr. and Mrs. Fred Munson 

Buy Winfield Drive-In 

Tri-States to Construct 

Two Nebraska Drive-Ins 

OMAHA—Ti-i-States Theatres is continuing 

to expand its drive-in network in this 

territory. District Manager William Mi.skell 

said that the circuit is now seeking sites near 

Falls City and Fairbury, Neb. Between 400 

and 500-auto theatres are planned. Tri- 

States recently purchased the Hastings Drive- 

In from C. Swanson and several others. 

The Council Bluffs Drive-In, now being 

built, will open this spring. It will be the 

largest in the territory. 

Duluth Area Theatres Join 

NBC Network Talent Show 

DULUTH— Four D\iluth area thc:itri',^ 

owned by Minnesota Amusfinent Co. have 

joined the NBC Arrowhead network here 

in sponsoring a ten-week home talent show. 

The shows appear on the stage of each 

theatre once a week in place of the regular 

film feature. They also are broadcast from 

network stations in the communities where 

the theatres are located. 

Four or five conte.stants participate in 

each show for three cash prizes awarded on 

audience approval and three merchandise 

prizes awarded by a group of Judges. Each 

show winner will participate in .semifinals 

the 11th and 12th weeks, and .semifinals winners 

will compete in regional finals the 13th 

week. The regional winner goes to a district 

contest in Minneapolis. 

Commercial sponsors have been booked for 

the broadcasts in each community. Local 

stores are donating prizes. The tieup includes 

the Lyric Theatre at Duluth, the Palace 

in Superior, the State in Hibbing and 

the Maco in Virginia. 

Reinbeck Theatre Starts 

Monthly Calendar Ads 

REINBECK. IOWA—Manager George 

Thacker of the Reinbeck Theatre has started 

a series of monthly Movie Calendar ads in 

the Reinbeck Courier. The listings of the 

shows and actors are so compiled that the 

reader may cut the ad out of the paper and 

hang it up at home for future reference. 

Running the ad in the paper takes the 

place of former mail distribution of the 

calendars. 

Ted Wynn Is Visitor 

KANSAS CITY — Ted Wynn, assistant 

manager two years at the Orphcum and RKO 

WICHITA—Interests of Al C. McClure and 

Eben Pyle in the drive-in now being erected 

at Winfield. Kas.. have been purchased by 

Mr. and Mrs. Fred Munson, operators of the Missouri theatres here and now living in 

166-Drive-In at Arkansas City, Kas. Construction 

of the screen tower will be started now is district manager for the Packard Mo- 

Oklahoma, was a visitor Tuesday (14 1. Wynn 

immediately. The drive-in, which will accommodate 

300 cars, is expected to be ready He was active in motion picture exhibition 

tor Co., with headquarters in Oklahoma City. 

for opening early in May. Mr. and Mrs. and exploitation from 1941 until he moved 

to Munson 

Oklahoma last year. 

formerly operated the Lakin Theatre 

at Lakin, Kas. 

Give $300 to Drives 

CANB"y, MINN.—WiUiam Flieder, manager 

of the Canby Theatre, .said patrons of 

the theatre had contributed nearly S300 to 

the March of Dimes and Heart disease campaigns. 

A total of $160.80 was contributed 

to the Dimes drive and $132.40 to the Heart 

fund. 

WELCOME 

VArDEVlI.I.i: — Marking 

the return of vaudeville to the KKO 

Orpheum in Des Moines after an absence 

of 19 years is Mayor Heck Ross, renter, 

on the stage of the theatre. With the 

mayor are Orphcum Manager .Icrry Blocdow. 

right, and entertainer Rex Weber. 

First week's run was called "terrific" by 

Bloedow who estimated receipts at "i.'iO per 

cent above normal. 

See 400 at ZOth-Fox 

Meeting March 22 

KANSAS CIT'V— Approximately 400 theatremen. 

including circuit officials and independent 

exhibitors, are expected to attend 

a motion picture merchandising forum which 

20th-Fox win spon.sor Wednesday (22) at the 

Continental hotel here. Showmanship by 

which theatre patronage may be increa.sed 

and maintained will be the theme of the 

meeting. Edwin W. Aaron, 20th-Fox midwest 

division manager, will supervi.se the forum. 

Sessions will begin at 9:30 a. m. and 1 p. m. 

Joe R. Neger, 20th-Fox manager here, will 

preside at the morning .session, which will 

be devoted to talks on showman.ship methods. 

Speakers will include Ben Shlyen, editor 

and publisher of BOXOFFICE. Elmer Bills, 

operator of the Lyric at Salisbury, Mo., will 

direct the afternoon session, which will be 

an open meeting on film merchandising 

ideas. A cocktail party will precede a dinner 

at 7 p. m. at the Continental hotel, and the 

20th-Fox production "Cheaper by the Dozen" 

will be screened at 9 p. m. at the Tower 

Tlieatre. 

Over 200 Expected at Omaha 

20lh-Fox Gathering 

OMAHA — Iowa and Nebraska exhibitors 

will gather here March 23 to diagnose business 

and plan a campaign. More than 200 

are expected. Joe Scott, local 20th-Fox manager, 

will be in charge. He returned from a 

Chicago area meeting on the subject last 

week. 

Scott .said the objectives will be to inform 

the public as to the importance of films a.s 

entertainment and to plan ways to keep interest 

and business up. 

Both independents and chain representatives 

will attend. A. H. Blank and G. Ralph 

Branton, top Tri-States Theatres executives 

from Des Moines, will be here. Di-strict Manager 

William Miskell said outstate managers 

will be called in. 

The schedule will include a luncheon, dinner 

and the showing of a number of films. 

Twin City Session March 23 

MINNEAPOLIS—"How to Get More People 

Into the Tlieatre " will be the subject of a 

symposium in which the exhibitors will participate 

as 20th-Fox's guests at the Hotel 

Radisson here March 23. M. A. Levy, local 

branch manager, has .sent invitations to all 

the territory's exhibitors and. Judging by the 

response already received, there'll be a record-breaking 

turnout, he .says. The meeting 

will be pattcrend after that held recently 

in Chicago by 20th-Fox. 

Durwood Circuit Opens 

Skylark Drive-Ins 

KANSAS CITY Tlic Skylark Drlve-Ins at 

Leavenworth. Kas., and St. Jaseph and Jefferson 

City, Mo., were to be opened for the 

season by the Durwood circuit Friday night 

(17). A fireworks dl.splay was to be a feature 

of the opening in each city. Dale Sparling 

will manage the Leavenworth drIve-in, Kenny 

Melchose will supervise the St. Joseph 

installation, and Douglas Otnes will direct 

the Jefferson City open air theatre. 

BOXOFFICE :: March 18. 1950 MW 65

. . . Edna 

. . Larry 

. . 

. . . Irene 

D E S 

MOINES 

Tîke Fallon, Republic auditor, was one of 

the injured persons in accidents resulting 

from the big two-alarm fire here March 12. 

Fallon, staying at the Franklin hotel, was 

asked to vacate his room as fire destroyed 

the large stationery store next to the hotel. 

In the rush of getting down the stairs with 

liis belongings, Fallon fell and suffered leg 

injuries which hospitalized him for a brief 

time. 

Mrs. V. E. Grant of the theatre at Newton 

attracted attention with a publicity stunt 

for Republic's "Red Menace" recently. A 

police guard escorted the film to and from 

the tlieatre with much ceremony . . . Joanne 

Herdwin, U-I. is enjoying her new apartment 

which she recently moved into from 

her quarters at the "Y" . . Sally Knop. 

. 

Warners, has a diamond ring from George 

Smith, recent Drake graduate. They plan a 

July wedding. 

Fern Bitting, Warner inspector, fell and 

injured her arm . Hensler had as 

a weekend guest Carl Reece of Omaha, formerly 

of Des Moines. The Henslers expect 

their son-in-law and daughter. Jack Sabata 

and family, to visit here prior to taking 

over their new duties at Fort Worth . 

Florence Paschal. RKO inspector, is back 

at work after suffering a sprained ankle 

Cloonen, RKO. was off sick last 

week with flu . . . H. O. Peterson. RKO 

booker, was called to Alta. Iowa, by the death 

of his father-in-law. 

Monogram has completed its redecoration 

COMPLETELY NEW 

HORKY'S CAFE 

Bigger and Better Than Ever 

— Featuring 'Delish' Steaks 

1202 Higli St. Des Moinea. Iowa 

"Where Filmrow Friends Gather" 

Open Daily at 4 p. m. 

job and all the employes are mighty happy 

with their new surroundings! . . . Kenny 

Bishard. Paramount salesman, was off ill 

Perin, Paramount, spent the weekend 

in Waterloo . . . Among the exhibitors 

on the Row were Bob Johnson, Thompson; 

C. L. Freeman. Riceville; Marjorie Aldinger, 

Bode, and S. A. Oellerich and Phillip Winslow 

of Waterloo. 

. 

Dorothy Sloan is the new inspector at 

Metro . . Neva Patterson, daughter of Mr. 

and Mrs. George Patterson of Elkhart, Iowa, 

is regularly appearing in motion pictures and 

on NBC television. She recently visited 

friends here . . . Mr. and Mrs. Oliver 

Doop and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kennedy of 

Adel have returned from a California vacation 

where they visited the Paramount studios 

and had a wonderful time! 

Exhibitors throughout the territory received 

wired invitations March 10 to the 

showmanship conference being sponsored by 

20th Century-Fox at the Standard club here 

beginning at 9:30 a. m. A luncheon, cocktail 

hour, dinner and preview at the Des Moines 

Theatre are on the program. Ralph Pielow 

jr.. 20th-Fox manager, will be host at the 

conference which is in keeping with Fox 

meetings all over the country. 

Glen Newbold, 50, Dies 

YATES CENTER, KAS.—Glen Newbold, 

50, operator of the Temple Theatre here, 

died March 3 at the Wesley hospital in Wichita, 

following a heart attack. Survivors include 

his widow, a daughter and a sister. 

'Sickle' Shown at Church 

ELDORADO. KAS.—The Hal Roach studio's 

"The Sickle or the Cross." termed by 

Jimmy Fidler as one of the year's outstanding 

religious films, was shown at the Grace 

Lutheran church here. An offering was taken 

to defray expenses. 

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Ban Is Only on Pictures, 

Archbishop Explains 

MINNEAPOLIS—In reply to another plea 

from North Central Allied not to condemn 

the theatres playing pictures not approved by 

the Legion of Decency as well as the films 

themselves. Archbishop J. G. Murray of the 

Twin City archdiocese has given his directive 

somewhat of a modification. 

"No implications were contained in any of 

my pronouncements that a theatre that had 

ever shown undesirable pictures should never 

again be entered by a Catholic." the archbishop 

wrote S. D. Kane, NCA executive director. 

The archbishop asserted he believes theatres 

should be operated in a way that has 

made the New York Times "the world's greatest 

newspaper . . . the theatres should show 

only pictures fit to be seen, just as the Times 

prints only the news fit to read." 

Duluth Council Forbids 

Television in Taverns 

DULUTH — City councilmen here have 

banned television in bars and off-sale liquor 

stores by a 3-2 vote on an amendment to the 

city alcoholic beverages code. 

Safety Commissioner Francis C. Daugherty. 

author of the code, opposed the ban on 

grounds that it was anticipatory legislation 

rather than legislation to cover a present 

situation. But ban proponents, principally 

church groups, were successful in convincing 

a council majority that television would attract 

too many more people into taverns. 

Daugherty, however, served notice on those 

favoring the ban that its language prohibited 

television in barrooms and liquor stores only, 

that sets would be considered legal in rooms 

not containing bars. 

Pioneer Managers Plan 

Spring Drive-In Starts 

ATLANTIC. IOWA—Pioneer Theatre Corp 

executives met here last week with H. D. 

Field, Pioneer president, to make plans for 

the opening of company drive-ins in April and 

May. Among those attending were Don J. 

Smith of Carroll, Gordon C. McKinnon of 

Spencer, Herman Fields of Clarinda, Dell 

Farrell of Cherokee and Art Farrell of Atlantic. 

Loren Landkamer Promoted 

FAIRBURY. NEB.—Loren Landkamer, assistant 

manager of the Bonham Theatre here, 

has been promoted to treasurer at the Orpheum 

in Omaha. Both are Tri-States Theatre 

houses. 

Daughter for Hartford Fees 

GREENFIELD. IOWA—H a r t f o r d Fees, 

manager of the Grand Theatre here, and 

his wife recently became the parents of a 

daughter who has been named Patricia. 

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—— 

— 

Winter Blasts Hurt 

Twin City Business 

MINNEAPOLIS—Extreme cold, blizzards 

and icy streets continued to plague the boxoffice 

and such action newcomers as "Malaya." 

"Montana," "Buccaneer's Girl" and 

"Davy Crockett" suffered. Holdovers were 

"Sands of Iwo Jima" in its third week and 

"When Willie Comes Marching Home." 

"Nancy' Scores Best 

Kansas City Gross 

KANSAS CITY—Trade at first runs here 

continued at a fairly steady pace despite 

marked changes in weather during the week. 

A dualing of "Nancy Goes to Rio" and "Border 

Incident" at the Midland set the pace 

with a rating of 125 per cent. "Dear Wife" 

drew average business to the Paramount. A 

second week of "Francis" day and date at the 

Tower, Uptown and Fairway registered 100 

per cent. "Hamlet," second run at the Kimo 

at regular prices, carded a rousing 200. 

Esquire 

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regupri( 

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CARL E. ANDERSON — Owner 

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Expect 100 at KMTA 

Meeting of March 28 

KANSAS CITY—Approximately 100 exhibitors 

in the Kansas City exchange area 

are expected to attend the one-day spring 

meeting which the Kansas-Missouri Theatre 

Ass'n will sponsor March 28 at the Phillips 

hotel here, according to Dale Danielson, Russell, 

Kas., president. Arrangements for the 

event are nearing completion under the 

supervision of committees headed by Sam 

Abend and J. Leo Hayob. 

Gael Sullivan, TOA executive director, will 

be one of the principal speakers during the 

meeting. Other speakers are expected to include 

various film world officials who will be 

here to attend the testimonial dinner to be 

given for Ben Shlyen, editor and publisher 

of BOXOFFXCE, that night at the Muehlebach 

hotel. 

Theatremen who will speak during the 

morning and afternoon sessions will include 

Tom Edwards, Farmington, Mo., who will 

talk on pubUc relations; Frank L. Plumlee, 

also of Farmington, polio, and Ed Hartman, 

Kansas City, booking, buying and competitive 

bidding. A meeting of the KMTA board 

of directors which ordinarily would be held 

Tuesday (21) will be postponed one week and 

will convene before the opening session of 

the spring meeting, according to Danielson. 

Shreve Increases Lead 

In Film Bowling Loop 

KANSAS CITY—The Shreve Theatre Supply 

team tightened its hold on the lead in 

the Filmrow Bowling league here by chalking 

up two victories in the 25th round of games, 

while the MGM quintet advanced to a tie 

with the Diablos squad for second place. 

The standings; 

Team Won Lost Team Won Lost 

Shreve Supply 47 28 Finton Jones 37 38 

MGM 40 35 Fox Terriers 36 39 

Diablos 40 35 Fox Trotters 34 41 

Michlo 38 37 Sharpshooters ....34 41 

Film Delivery 37 38 Michaels ^ 32 43 

The Fox Midwest Vixens and the Warner 

Starlets were tied for first place in the Women's 

Filmrow Bowling league here after 25 

weeks of competition between the six teams. 

The current standings; 


Fox Vixens 45 30 

Warner Starlets 45 30 

Central Ship 41 34 

Hartman 38 37 

Al's Wildcats 30 45 

En Ess Essers 26 49 

KANSAS CITY 

Oeorge Giroux, Los Angeles, Technicolor 

Sales Corp. special representative, was a 

visitor here Tuesday (14) ... Bob Walter, 

formerly at the drive-in operated by the 

Commonwealth circuit near Columbia, Mo., 

has been appointed manager of the Crest 

here, to be opened March 31 . . Gordon 

. 

Forbes, Hollywood, Lippert Pictures chief accountant, 

was checking the branch here . . . 

Don Davis, RCA- Victor district manager, was 

in Colorado territory. 

Frank Bowen of United Film Service, Inc., 

ill several months recently and reported later 

to be recovering, again was a patient at St. 

Luke's hospital . . . R. R. Biechele, KMTA 

legislative chairman and operator of the 

Osage in Kansas City, Kas., resumed his activities 

after several days as a patient for a 

checkup at Bethany hospital there . . . Arthur 

DeStefano, National Theatre Supply 

branch manager, was ill with influenza at 

his home. 

Eddy Erickson, TEI office manager here, 

and Mary Esther Stewart of Independence, 

Mo., wiU be married Sunday (19) at the First 

Baptist church there . . . J. W. Young, Shreve 

Theatre Supply Co. accountant, and his wife 

observed their 30th wedding anniversary Friday 

(17) . . . Ralph Morrow of U-I was a patient 

at St. Luke's hospital . . . Larry Biechele, 

Film Classics salesman, returned from northern 

Missouri territory. 

A meeting of the Kansas-Missouri Allied 

board of directors has been called by O. F. 

Sullivan, Wichita, president, for March 23 at 

its offices here . . . The next meeting of Kansas 

City Loge 12, Colosseum of Motion Picture 

Salesmen, is being planned for Monday, 

April 10, at the Frank Wachter restaurant, 

1112 Baltimore . Bicycle Thief," 

award-winning Italian film, will be the attraction 

at the Kimo following the run of 

"Hamlet" there. 

Kansas theatremen booking and buying on 

Filmrow included J. H. Neeley, Star, Hays; 

Don W. Cuthbertson, Lyons Drive-In, Lyons; 

Albert Orear, Rio. Bonner Springs; and 

Ralph Larned, Paramount, La Crosse 

Missouri showmen in town included 

. 

Elmer 

Bills. Lyric, Salisbury; Dan Payton, Strand, 

Mount Vernon; Francis Meyers, Civic, Brookfield; 

M. B. Presley, Globe, Savannah; Jack 

Cook, Tivoh, Maryville, and Gene Michaels, 

Michlo. Braymer. 

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Kid Shows to Support 

Omaha Variety Fund 

OMAHA — Children's matinees again will 

be held throughout the Omaha territory for 

the Children's Memorial hospital here and 

other Variety Club charities. Every exhibitor 

will be asked to devote one afternoon during 

the last week of April to a Variety Club children's 

movie matinee. The charge will be 

25 cents each with all proceeds going to the 

charity aiTangement. 

Joe Scott, chief barker, is in charge. The 

names of the hundreds of exhibitors have 

been divided among the various Omaha exchanges 

whose representatives will make personal 

calls to try to arrange matinees. 

Commonwealth Purchases 

RCA Drive-In Speakers 

KANSAS CITY—A total of 1,860 RCA incar 

speakers have been purchased by Commonwealth 

Theatres, Inc., from the Missouri 

Theatre Supply Co. here for installation in 

six drive-ins now being erected by the circuit 

in Missouri and Arkansas, according to L. 

J. Kimbriel. manager of the equipment firm. 

The drive-ins, each of which will receive 310 

speakers, are located in Joplin, Clinton and 

Fulton. Mo., and Batesville, Harrison and 

Searcy, Ark. 

RCA speakers also have been ordered for 

the 300-car drive-in being erected on Route 

13 between Richmond and Henrietta, Mo., by 

Frank G. Weary, operator of the Farris Tlieatre 

in Richmond, and the 300-car open air 

theatre being constructed near Moberly. Mo., 

by Elmer Bills, who runs the Lyric at Salisbury, 

Mo. 

Girls Doubt Film Bill 

For Sadie Hawkins Date 

OTTAWA, KAS.—During Sadie Hawkins 

week at the university here the girls must 

do the date getting. It's all in fun and all the 

students have fun reversing the usual routine. 

But the coeds were a bit doubtful 

during motion picture date night. Billed at 

one of the local houses was the film "Abandoned." 

CORRECTION 

The gross credited to "Stromboli" for the 

RKO Missouri Theatre in Kansas City, included 

in the first run tabulation published 

in the March 11 issue of BOXOFFICE, wa.^; 

inaccurate because of a typographical error 

and should have been 80 per cent. 

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Commonwealth to Run 75 Drive-ins 

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KANSAS CITY—With four drive-ins already 

running and 11 others either ready to 

open or under construction and expected to 

be completed within the next 90 days, the 

Commonwealth circuit will have a total of 15 

open air theatres in operation in Kansas, 

Missouri and Arkansas as the 1950 .sea.son 

progresses, according to Robert Shelton. vicepresident 

and general manager. Jack Braunagel 

is manager of the Commonwealth drivein 

department. 

The circuit, which also operates nearly 70 

indoor theatres, opened its first drive-in. the 

Crest here, in 1948. 

The Commonwealth drive-in at Payetteville. 

Ark., of which Henry Seamands is manager, 

is a year-around operation. Now running 

weekends only, the drive-in at Columbia, 

Mo., was opened March 3. with Bert English 

as manager. The ozoner at Lawrence, 

Kas., managed by Ed Kirk; one at Joplin. 

Mo., supervised by Doyle Mowroy, and another 

at Sedalia, Mo., managed by Darrell Maness. 

all were opened Fi-iday (171. Opening of the 

Crest and Riverside drive-ins here, the former 

south of the city and the latter in the 

north suburban area, has been scheduled for 

March 31. Bob Walter, formerly at the Columbia 

ozoner, will be manager of the Crest. 

A new drive-in now under construction at 

Springfield. Mo., is expected to be completed 

and ready for opening about April 10. Farthest 

west of the Commonwealth open air 

projects, one at Goodland, Kas., will be unveiled 

about April 20. Lee Wright has been 

appointed manager. New drive-ins at Harrison 

and Searcy. Ark., will be ready early 

in May. Doyle Branscum will manage the 

former, while K. K. King will supervise the 

latter. 

Another new Commonwealth open air theatre 

now being erected at Batesville. Ark.. 

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probably will be completed about June in 

William Headstream will be manager. A mi 

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Joplin. Mo., and others at Clinton and Fulton. 

Mo., are expected to be opened in July. 

C. W. Dickgrafe will be in charge of the 

Clinton project, and Monroe Glenn will manage 

the Fulton drive-in. 

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BOXOFFICE March 18. 1930 69

. . . Don 

. . Gene 

. . Jack 

. . 

. . . When 

MINNEAPOLIS 

Terry Gruenberg, Eagle Lion salesman, became 

a daddy the second time. It's a boy, 

The father of Gilbert Nathanson, 

his first son . . . 

circuit owner, is recovering from a 

Another Palace vaudeville 

serious illness . . . 

unit has been set for the Orpheum here in 

Harry B. French. Minnesota 

mid-April . . . 

Amusement Co. president, returned from a 

Florida vacation. 

. . . Dinah Satz. 

Ev Seibel and John Branton, Minnesota 

Amusement Co. advertising head and buying 

and booking executive, and their wives left on 

a motor trip to Ai-izona 

Columbia head booker, has announced her 

engagement to Max Elkin. who, with his 

father, owns and operates the Loop and 

Crystal, lower Loop theatres . Statz, 

Republic office manager, is passing the cigars. 

It's a girl—the Statzes' third. 

Mae West will appear at the Lyceum April 

2 for seven days in "Diamond Lil," stage play 

. . . Bert Wheeler, who, wdth his onetime 

partner Woolley, was long a screen favorite, 

is at the Hotel Nicollet Minnesota Terrace 

Buckley, Redwood Falls exhibitor, 

was in town . . . George Turner, MGM salesman, 

and Jack Heywood, New Richmond, 

Wis., exhibitor, returned from a vacation 

motor trip to Arizona and California . 

The local RKO exchange was seventh nationally 

in the Ned Depinet sales contest. 

Plan 600-Car Drive-In 

On Wichita, Kas„ Site 

WICHITA—Plans for construction of a 

600-car drive-in on a 20-acre tract adjoining 

the Meadowlark golf course southeast of 

here have been disclosed by Mr. and Mi's. 

T. H. Slothower, for 33 years owners and 

operators of theatres in Wichita and other 

Kansas cities. The new drive-in will be a 

project of the Meadowlark Amusement Co., 

of which Slothower is president and Mrs. 

Slothower is secretary and treasurer. Grading 

of the site already has been started, and 

construction is expected to be completed in 

May. 

Plans for construction of a shopping center 

which will include a 1,100-seat theatre to 

be known as the Sunset in South Wichita 

were disclosed last week by Mr. and Mrs. 

Slothower. 

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Bennie Berger and wife returned from a 

Florida vacation. He got back in time to 

see his Minneapolis Lakers basketball team 

defeat the New York Knickerbockers before 

a 9,000 capacity crowd at the Auditorium. 

Berger reiterated his confidence that motion 

picture theatres will be able to meet "the 

challenge" of television. Improved showmanship 

is all the more essential now, Berger 

said, and commended 20th-Pox for the series 

of exhibitor sliowmanship meetings it's now 

conducting. 

Frank Woskie and wife returned from a 

tour that took him as far as Hawaii . . . Exliibitors 

have had one bad weather break 

after another this winter, with a succession 

of blizzards and considerable subzero temperatures 

along with icy roads. The bad weather 

is continuing into mid-March . Kelly. 

MGM shorts and reprints sales manager for 

this territory, was a visitor 

. . . Betty Peterson 

is the new secretary to S. D. Kane, North 

Central Allied executive director, succeeding 

Lenore Shields, resigned. 

The Cedar, local neighborhood house of 

which Bennie Berger is co-owner, had a 

triple feature and then a twin bill of A pictures 

"The Great Lover" and "Always Leave 

Them Laughing" . . . E. L. Walton. Republic 

assistant sales manager, was a visitor. 

Permit Asked for Drive-In 

In Kansas City District 

KANSAS CITY—An application for 

a permit 

to construct and operate a drive-in has 

been filed with the Jackson county planning 

commission by Al Kranz. a resident of the 

intercity district between here and Independence, 

Mo. Kranz proposes to build an 

open air theatre on a 17-acre tract at Nineteenth 

street and Blue Ridge boulevard, in 

an area now zoned tor two-family dwellings. 

A hearing on the application has been scheduled 

for Friday (24). 


Theatre Design, Construction and 

Remodeling 

F. A. McMICHAEL & SON 

GENERAL CONTRACTORS 

Osborne. Kansas 

Admission Up 5 Cents 

ELDORA, IOWA—Admission prices at the 

New Grand here have been increased 5 cents 

to 45 cents for adults. The management announced 

in a notice to patrons, "Due to higher 

costs, we can no longer absorb all the U.S. 

20 per cent admission tax in our adult prices 

this wartime tax is repealed, our 

prices will drop accordingly." 

does only ONE thing 



CHICAGO frm^HlVI YORK 

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M. M. MESHER— District Manager, 

Hamrick-Evergreen Theatres, 

Portland, Oregon—says: 

"RCA Service is dependable 

and we have found it to be 

most valuable for the excellent 

operation we always 

strive to maintain." 




Camden, N. J. 


. . The 

. . 

Lalfs 

— 

Blizzard Numbs Activity 

In Areas of Three States 

' 

OMAHA—A blizzard with winds up 

to 100 

miles an hour roared through Nebraska, 

South Dakota and Iowa causing a half-dozen 

deaths, breaking thousands of windows, damaging 

a number of drive-ins and cutting theatre 

business. More than one hundred towns 

in Nebraska and South Dakota lost all wire 

communication. Transportation was snarled. 

Ti-i-States Theatres said both wing walls at 

the Grand Island Drive-In were ripped down. 

One complete side of a fence and half of 

another side was blown eight blocks away. 

The circuit's drive-in at Hastings also lost 

a fence. The Omaha Drive-In lost a strip on 

the top tower. 

Fi-ed Pejfar, MGM salesman, spent the 

night in a farm house near Dennison, Iowa. 

Max McCoy. U-I, did the same near Rising 

City. Neb. Rich Wilson, MGM, accepted hospitality 

from Ed Gannon. He slept in his 

Sky Theatre at 

Schuyler, Neb. 

Lloyd Einfeldt, Danbury. Iowa, exhibitor, 

was in a head-on collision near Mondamin, 

but suffered no injuries. 

Tri-State managers meeting here had quite 

a time. Mr. and Mrs. James Pickett. Hastings, 

got their auto back into Lincoln en 

route home, then took the train to Hastings. 

Ira Crane, Palls City, reported in from the 

state penitentiary that he could not go any 

farther. 

Heaviest snows fell in the O'Neill area, 

hardest hit last year. A main street picture 

barely showed the theatre marquee. 

Pennington to Distribute 

Sweden Speed Freezer 

KANSAS CITY—To devote its facilities to 

distribution of the Sweden speed freezer and 

theatre premium merchandise, the Pennington 

Poster service here has sold its stock 

of posters and other film advertising material 

to other services and will be known as the 

Pennington Sales Co. The Pennington firm, 

which was established in January 1945. has 

obtained exclusive rights for distribution of 

the Sw-eden freezer to theatres and drive-ins 

in the Kansas City exchange territory, according 

to Bill Pennington, owner and manager. 

A. C. Myrick Is Speaker 

ALGONA, IOWA—Among the speakers at 

a meeting of the Ko.ssuth Committee for Better 

Education last week was A. C. Myrick of 

Lake Park, president of the Iowa-Nebraska 

AITO. 

Improves Pierson Theatre 

PIERSON. IOWA— Earl Wilson, new owner 

of the Pier Theatre here, has installed newseats 

and screen. New projection has been 

ordered. 


STEBBINS THEATRE Equipfflent Co. 

r r'^fWfV^ ?'f f T' v>^ > A. 

Exhibitor Sfates Tax Repeal Case 

In Letter to Governor of Kansas 

HOLYROOD. KAS.— Paul Ricketts, local 

exhibitor, took issue with Gov. Frank Carlson 

of Kansas in a letter to the state's chief 

executive In which he explained the exhibitor's 

side of the current controversy over 

the 20 per cent federal admLssions tax. The 

letter was sent to Carlson after the Kan.sas 

governor had urged the U.S. house ways and 

means committee to reduce or repeal the 

excise tax so that states and municipalities 

might step in and levy such taxes. 

OPPOSES SPECIAL TAXES 

The four-page letter to Carlson emphasized 

that motion pictures are not a luxury 

and that the theatres of the nation have 

kept their admissions at a very modest 

figure. 

"Here in my own theatre," Ricketts wrote. 

"I have prices, including state and federal 

taxes, of 14 cents for children and 45 cents 

for adults. A man, his wife and two children 

may get two hours or more fine entertainment 

for $1.18, of which 22 cents is 

tax. Think of what a saving we could pa.ss 

on to this family if the tax is eliminated. 

"I am firmly convinced that as a matter 

of principle no special tax .should be levied 

against any particular line of business unless 

that business, by its very nature, poses increased 

problems and expense by the state, 

county and city governments . proposal 

that the state or the city levy a tax 

on each ticket to a motion picture theatre 

just becau.se it is an 'ea.sy' tax is neither 

fair, just nor reasonable. It is no more rea- 

.sonable to require me to collect a tax on my 

wares than it would be to require the druggist, 

grocer or hardware dealer ... to collect 

a comparable tax. I am fully aware 

that mo.st of these merchants handle a few 

items that are subject to some sort of exci.se 

levy, but none of them charge a heavy levy 

on all their business such as we have been 

doing and would have to do under your 

proposal. 

SHOULD AVOID DISCRIMINATION 

"I believe that there is a constitutional 

provision for 'fair and equal' a.s.se.ssment of 

real estate and personal property, and I believe 

that this should be u.sed as a yardstick 

in measuring any proposed new taxes. 

I am sure that you will agree that the taxing 

of the customers of one busine.ss in town 

while letting the others go .scot-free would 

not be fair and equal . . . 

"I am firm in my belief that no city tax 

"Pop-Mor" 

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or license should be levied against any one 

business or its customers without applyin.' 

that tax to all businesses in the town. Tin 

exception to this would be, of course, businesses 

which pose special problems. 

"I feel that if a city is unable to operate 

after making a maximum levy and receiving 

a fair share of the state collected 'easy' taxr . 

then and only then should some provision 

be made for levying a licen.se or occupation 

tax against every busine.ss in the town, such 

license or tax to be a lump yearly sum in a 

reasonable amount and should clearly be a 

tax against the busine.ss and not against the 

customers. I would propose It only as a last 

resort and would provide that it could not 

be used unless a maximum levy had been 

made. 

"I hope . . . you will give this proposal of 

yours further consideration and I am sure 

you will agree that such a tax would be 

discriminatory and unjust and would be an 

unwise move on the part of any state government 

or municipality." 


LOOK! 

8y Popular Demand 

"SPOTTY" 



" 

And Introducing His Missus 

For Fun . 

BLOTTY" 

. . . And 

Hilarioui Cntcrtainment 

PLAY 

"SPOT TAG" 

The outdoor 

thcotrcs' 

Populor Intermission Game 



Spot Tag No. 2 17 50 

No t and 2 on some order 30 00 


Send for your free trailer suggestions, 

"Spcciolisti in Drive In 7/icolre Trailen" 

125 Hyde St, Son Francisco 2, Coif. 

IS IT ACTION YOU WANT? 

Possibly more theatres arc sold through our 

offices tn the oreas in which we operate than 

most other mediums combined. No listing 

(ce— Multiple service. 

HARBY BUCK FLOYD H. PUrFER 

60405 P*nc* Bldg.. 509 S«curiliM Bidg. 

2. Minnoapoli:; Minn. D*i Moino 9. Iowa 

B. M. COPELAND V. E. GORHAM 

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Kansas City 6. Mo. Omaha 2. Nobra.ka 

SAVEREIDE THEATRE BROKERS 

iorgeit Excluuve Tlieatre Brokers in America 

BOXOmCE :: March 18, 1950 71

4 

NCA Convention Dates 

Again Moved; May 3, 

MINNEAPOLIS — North Central Allied 

again has changed the date of its annual co!ivention 

at the Hotel Nicollet here. Instead 

of April 4, 5. the last dates announced, the 

convention will be held Wednesday and 

Thursday. May 3, 4. The convention was 

set forward because of the disinclination of 

some members to attend it during Lent and 

also because better hotel accommodations 

could be had at the later date, according 

to Bennie Berger, president. It originally 

was scheduled for April 3. 4, but those dates 

would have conflicted with a Jewish holiday. 

One of the principal discussion topics at 

the convention will be television, present and 

future competition from it and means to 

utilize and combat it. 

Seeks Muscatine Permit 

MUSCATINE. IOWA — Clayton Bosten. 

manager of the Palace here, has made application 

with the city council to erect a 

$40,000 drive-in theatre at the intersection 

of Houser and Cedar streets. He told the 

council the proposed structure will occupy a 

frontage of 1,800 feet along Cedar and 1,900 

feet on Houser. The council ordered the 

application held over until the next meeting, 

with the city engineer to make an investigation 

in the meantime. 



Do it today. 

RKO Rally in Omaha 

OMAHA—W. E. Brandson, western RKO 

divisional sales manager, will be here March 

24, 25 for a district drive meeting. Harry 

Gittelson. his assistant, and District Manager 

Al Kolitz of Denver also will be on hand. 

Branch managers scheduled to attend include 

Max Rosenblatt, Des Moines; J. W. 

Lewis, Kansas City; G. Davison, Salt Lake 

City; J. C. Emerson, Denver, and Jack Renfro, 

Omaha. 

Omaha NTS Head Marries 

OMAHA—Elaine Braun and Glen Slipper, 

National Theatre Supply manager here, were 

married. Mrs. Slipper also works in the 

Omaha office. 

Style Revue on Stage 

lOLA, KAS.—A spring style revue, "Fashions 

for Fifty," was held recently on the stage 

of the lola Theatre here. The event, put on 

by a prominent department store, received 

news breaks in the local press and was advertised 

by a full page co-op advertisement. 

To Thrice-Weekly Change 

DANBURY, IOWA—Lloyd Einfeldt, who 

recently bought out Bill White here, is changing 

from a twice to a thrice-weekly switch 

of pictures. 

Buy San Francisco Sunset 

CRAWFORD, NEB.—Harry J. and Isabella 

Strohmeyer, former owners of the Elite Theatre 

here, have puixhased the Sunset Theatre 

in San Francisco from Bob Gingerich. 

Wilcoxon in Twin City 

On Tour for 'Samson 

MINNEAPOLIS—In the Twin Cities on a 

public relations tour for Paramount, mainly 

in the interests of "Samson and Delilah." 

Henry Wilcoxon, for many years a prominent 

film and stage actor, complained to 

newspaper reporters that "the best laid plans 

of would-be movie villains always seem to 

be thwarted by solicitous casting departments." 

In his 23 years on the stage and before 

the cameras he has yearned for the meaty 

role of a child-eating scoundrel, he said. 

Ministers' parts? Yes, by the handful. Fusty, 

lovable old colonels? Time after time. But 

playing dirty-faced rough guys who slap 

their dames around very seldom has been 

his pleasure, he points out. 

Despite his passion for villain's roles, he 

has played them less than 20 per cent of the 

time in his long career. 

"A heavy role always is a pleasure," he 

told reporters with a smile. "You see, the 

villain always is initiating the action and 

the hero merely stands about looking virtuous 

and puts a stop to the meanie's plans." 

Wilcoxon, who played the role of Ahtur 

in "Samson and Delilah," now Is speaking 

to school, civic and church groups, offering 

them Paramount 's collection of research material 

compiled over a 14-year period on 

Biblical life. At the Paramount exchange 

here he spoke on "Samson and Delilah" to 

the sales force and other employes. 

A RESEARCH BUREAU 

for MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS 

ENROLLMENT FORM FOR FREE INFORMATION 

The MODERN THEATRE PLANNING INSTITUTE 3-18-50 


Kansas City 1, Mo. 

Gentlemen: 

Please enroll us in your REf/EARCH BUREAU to receive information regularly, as 

released, on the following subjects for Theatre Planning: 

D Acoustics 

n Air Conditioning 

D Architectural Service 


n Building Material 

n Carpels 

n Coin Machines 

D Other Subjects 

n Complete Remodeling 

n Decorating 

n Drink Dispensers 

D Drive-In Equipment 

n Lighting Fixtures 

n Plumbing Fixtures 

n Projectors 


n Seating 

n Signs and Marquees 

n Sound Equipment 

n Television 

n Theatre Fronts 

n Vending Equipment 

Theatre Seating Capacity 

Address 

City 

Signed.. 

State 

(Owner-Manager) 

Postage-paid reply cards for your further convenience in obtaining information 

are provided in The MODERN THEATRE RED KEY Section (Nov. 19, 1949). 

'Stromboli' Is Average 

DULUTH—Roy Prytz, manager of the 

Granada Theatre, reported this reaction 

among Duluth filmgoers to "Stromboli" after 

a six-day run: "just so-so, nothing exciting, 

an average house." No one said anything or 

wrote any letters about the propriety cf 

showing the film, according to Prytz. He 

himself felt "Stromboli" was "different but 

a bit morbid." 

Reports Many Repeal Signers 

ALBIA, IOWA—Scores of Monroe county 

theatre fans are signing a petition urging 

congressional repeal of the 20 per cent amusement 

tax on admission, according to Gene 

Cramm, acting manager of the King Theatre 

here. 

Otis Cowan a Visitor 

MANHATTAN, KAS. — Otis Cowan of 

Great Bend, former city manager here for 

Griffith, visited friends and relatives in Manhattan 

last week. Mrs. Cowan and a daughter 

accompanied him. 

Lutheran Film Premiered 

OMAHA—"The Pilgrimage Play," Technicolor 

feature-length religious film produced 

by the Missouri synod of the Lutheran 

church, was premiered here March 12 at the 

First Lutheran church. 

Cashier Returns to Job 

MANHATTAN, KAS.—Helen Waugh. cashier 

at the Carlton, who has been ill in a local 

hospital, was recovered sufficiently to return 

to her position. 


- 

Sam Fineberg Hurt 

In Auto Accident 

PITTSBURGH—Sam Fineberg. president 

of Alexander Theatre Supply, and his brother 

Louis are reported recuperating this week at 

a Lebanon. Mo., hospital where they were 

taken after a serious traffic accident near 

there late last week. Sam had purchased a 

new Chevrolet for his wife Freda who lives 

at Phoenix, Ariz., and he and Lou were taking 

it there. 

The car collided with a milk truck and Sam 

was injured critically. Mike Fineberg. a 

brother, flew to Missouri that evening and 

the following morning brother Herman flew 

there with the head surgeon of Montefiore 

hospital. Freda and sons Jay and Ronnie also 

rushed to Lebanon. 

The car was demolished. 

$30,000 Damage Caused 

In Menominee, Mich., Fire 

MENOMINEE. MICH.—A backstage fire at 

the old Menominee Opera House recently 

caused damage estimated at $30,000. The 

theatre had been showing motion pictures 

only on weekends in recent years. The back 

of the building was reported a total loss, 

with the stage, curtains and all props destroyed. 

Flames cut supports on an asbestos 

curtain and scorched the walls and front 

seats, while steam caused plaster to fall 

when firemen turned water on the fire. 

The blaze started in the boiler room below 

the stage at about 2 a. m. and flames were 

shooting from the roof before it was discovered. 

It was thought something had gone 

wrong with the boiler, which maintained a 

temperature of about 50 degrees on days when 

the theatre was closed. 

C. E. Cammack, owner of the theatre, said 

he did not know whether he would rebuild it. 

The building was constructed in 1902 and at 

one time was the largest theatre north Of 

Green Bay. Wis., with a seating capacity of 

1.500. The two balconies had been closed, 

limiting seating to 800. 

Dick McCool Builds Airer 

In Clearfield, Pa., Area 

CLEARFIELD. PA.—A 400-car outdoor theatre 

will be opened on Route 322 this spring 

by Dick McCool. well-known member of the 

motion picture industry in the Pittsburgh 

area. The new ozoner will be located nine 

miles from here and seven miles from Philipsburg. 

Owners and operators will be the 

Midway Drive-In Theatre Corp. of which Mc- 

Cool is manager and secretary- treasurer. A 

13-acre site was acquired for the project, 

which will be an RCA package-deal contracted 

through Alexander Theatre Supply. 

McCool has managed theatres in the area 

for 15 years, mostly with the Manos and Lipsie 

circuits. For a year or so prior to resigning 

last week, he was associated with the Albert 

P. Way Theatres at DuBois. He assisted in 

last summer's opening of the Hi-Way Drivein 

theatre at DuBois, owned by Way, and 

he managed the Way outdoor and indoor 

theatres. The local ozoner has been started 

and McCool will devote aU of his time to the 

new theatre. 

BOXOFTICE March 18, 1950 

Merger in Toledo Cinches 

Schwyn Paramount Grip 

TOLEDO — Merger of 

Theatre Leasehold 

Corp. here last week, which owned the 99- 

year lease on the Adams street corner where 

the Paramount Theatre stands, and Carl H. 

Schw-yn Theatres, operator of the Paramount, 

into the newly formed Schwyn Theatre 

Lea.sehold Corp. gave full control of the 3,400.- 

seat house here to the Schwyn interests. 

The new Schwyn Corp. thus owns the land 

lea.se, theatre building and equipment, and 

will operate the theatre. Schwyn has been 

operating the Paramount since 1948 on a sublease. 

Carl H. Schwyn, Cygnet, Ohio, banker, oil 

and circuit owner, is president of the new 

firm. 

For each share of Theatre Leasehold Corp. 

stock, which in 1938 was considered worth 

only $3. the owners were given one 20-year. 

6 per cent $100 debenture bond. In recent 

months, the market value of Theatre Leasehold 

Corp. stock was about $50. but after 

merger negotiations began, its price climbed 

to a $65-S75 spread. 

Under the merger agreement, the new 

Schwyn Theatre Leasehold Corp. will provide 

an annual sinking fund of $10,000 plus 

an amount equal to 20 per cent of net earnings 

in excess of $50,000 before provision for 

depreciation, pay interest at 6 per cent and 

retire the debentures in 20 years. 

Schwyn and his associates will control the 

new corporation through ownership of an issue 

of 5.000 shares of $10 par value common 

stock, exchanged at the rate of 20 Schwyn 

Theatre Leasehold shares for one in Carl H. 

Schwyn Theatres. 

Toledo Paramount Corp. was organized in 

1926 to build the Paramount and i.ssued 2,500 

bonds, each with a value of $500. In the 

1930s, the bonds went into default and the 

corporation into receivership. In 1938 Theatre 

Leasehold Corp. was formed to take over, 

and one share of Leasehold stock was issued 

lor each outstanding Toledo Paramount $500 

bond, at that time valued at only $3. 

By agreement of stockholders in TLC. 

Paramount Publix Theatres, which, through 

Balaban & Katz, had operated the theatre 

since it opened in 1928. was to continue oc- 

Jack .•\rnistrong. general m.-inaKer of 

the Schwyn circuit, said a program of improvement 

of the big Paramount in Toledo 

will continue. 

ME 

cupancy for ten years under lease from owners 

of the ground, rather than under sublease 

from Theatre Leasehold Corp. Theatre 

Leasehold Corp. received approximately $5,000 

a year from the ground owners. After expiration 

of the ten-year agreement. Theatre 

Leasehold Corp. seeking a greater return on 

shareholders' Investment, took command. 

Schwyn interests made the Lea.sehold company 

a better offer than did Balaban & Katz. 

so Theatre Leasehold leased the theatre to 

Schwyn. 

Balaban & Katz announced plans to build 

a $2,000,000 theatre as Its first run house here 

and purchased a site at the corner of Jackson 

and Superior streets for this purpo.se. 

The Princess, a smaller downtown house al.so 

leased by Balaban & Katz. was remodeled 

and converted for u.se as a first run. Only 

a few weeks ago, however, Balaban & Katz 

sold its downtown site back to the original 

owners and indicated It had postponed Indefinitely 

its plans for a new Toledo hou.se. 

Jack Armstrong, general manager of the 

Schwyn circuit, which also operates the State 

in Toledo and several houses and a drive-in 

in northwestern Ohio, reported that the new 

company plans to continue its program of 

improving the Paramount, city's largest 

house. So far, approximately $60,000 has 

been spent on painting and decoration and 

installation of new sound systems. Scheduled 

to begin in a few months is a new .seating 

program. 

Wellston, Ohio. Drive-In 

Will Open Next Month 

WELLSTON. OHIO -Jackson county's new 

drive-in on Route 75 north of Coalton will 

open the first week in April If weather permits. 

The new drive-ln is owned by Frank 

Rauch jr. and Frank Nolan. Athens. Ohio. 

Nolan Is president of the Ohio Drive-In Theatre 

A.ss'n. No name has been selected for 

the open-alrer. It will have a 400-car capacity 

with individual speakers and Western 

Electric sound. A modern snack bar with a 

glassed-in side, so the film may be watched 

from the Interior, al.so Is being erected. Tlie 

new theatre will have a permanent stage so 

that flesh shows may be presented once 

monthly. 

Tom Coppuzzi Buys Lease 

On Republic. Pa., House 

REPUBLIC. PA.—Thomas Cappuzzl. owner 

of the Princess here, has acquired the Roo.scvelt. 

He purchased the property .some months 

ago and now has purchased the unexpired 

lease from the Laskey Brothers Theatre Enterprises. 

The Roosevelt formerly was owned 

and operated for a number of years by Matteo 

Faenza, who Is retired and residing In 

Florida. Cappuzzi has other busine.ss Interests 

here. Including a store and a television 

sales agency. 

What have YOf done today to 


help secure 

73

. . U-I 

. . Henry 

. . Many 

. . The 

. . 

PITTS BURGH 

h/tnTlin Way says Mrs. Mabel McCartan, a 

member of the DuBois, Pa., Avenue Theatre 

staff for four years, has been named 

an assistant manager. Ted Kriner, assistant 

manager, also will serve as assistant manager 

at the Hi-Way Drive-In there. His 

father, A. P. Way, now vacationing at St. 

Petersburg, Fla., is expected to return to Du- 

Bois early in April . . . Area premiere of 

"Nancy Goes to Rio" was set for the State 

74 

SAM RESNICK— Partner, Greenway 

Theatre, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—says: 

"We have been using RCA 

Service for 20 years and would 

not be without it." 




Camden, N. J. 

Refreshment Equipment, Supplies 

and 

Service 

Complete Supply and Concession 

Service for Theatres and 

Drive-Ins 

We Feature SEALTEST Ice Cream 

Ask About Our Profitable Deal For You. 

SHOWE CONFECTIONS CORP. 

THEATRE CANDY CO., INC. 

400 Dinwiddle St. ATlantic 1-8503 

Pittsburgh 19, Pa. 

"BUD- BARACH OLIVER T. PIKE 

THEATRE ADVERTISING, INC. 

Theatre Promotions, Merchant Tie-Ups ior 

INDOOR & DRIVE-INS 

Absolutely No Cost . . . Absolutely No Effort 

Nationally Advertised Products Only 

62S Film Bldg. TOwer 1-36S0 

2108 Payne Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 

SAM FINEBERG | 

TOMMcCLEARY | 

1705 Blvd. of the Allies || 

PITTSBURGH 19, PA. || 

Phone EXpress 0777 ^ 

The fifth annual minstrel 

in Altoona . . . 

show of the McKees Rocks Kiwanis club 

will be featured May 2-4 at the Roxian in 

McKees Rocks. 

Watty Watson, MGM's exploitation representative, 

is occupied with many new pieces 

of business which will attract patrons to theatres 

in the area. First shot in the "Annie 

Get Your Gun" campaign will be the appearances 

here March 23, 24 of Dot Lind 

of the Remington Firearms Co. Ti-ick, fancy 

and bull's-eye shooter. Dot Lind will demonstrate 

her skill before representatives of 

Sportsmen's associations and police and 

safety officers, with press coverage. Watson 

expects that she will "punch out" theatre 

tickets in the Annie Oakley fashion. The 

MGM exploiteer reports that Bridgett Carr 

of Toledo, Ohio, who is crossing the country 

in a taxicab to ballyhoo "The Yellow Cab 

Man," will be held approximately April 8. 

Safety Council is cooperating. 

Abe Weiner, Monogi-am-Allied Artists 

manager, was here conferring with Ben Williams, 

owner of the local franchise ... "A 

Streetcar Named Desire" returns to the 

Nixon for a week April 10 ... A second child, 

a daughter, was born recently to the Jake 

Stefanons. Papa is Blatt circuit manager at 

Roaring Spring. The Stefanons' first born 

is a son . . . P. D. "Dinty" Moore, Warner 

manager, spent most of last week at the 

home office in New York. 

Mario Battiston, Export exhibitor and outdoor 

theatreman, is "scouting" the major 

baseball squads in training in Florida and 

he was expected to head for Havana and 

probably South America. With him are 

"bodyguards" William "Porky" Nellis, Jerry 

Bernardo and Bud Plank, all of Irwin. "Mio" 

and his gang were out to see the sights and 

the bright lights too ... Al Rosenberg, Warner 

home office representative, is on duty 

Howard I. Putnam of Warren, formerly a 

sound service representative of the local area 

Warner circuit, is new salesman for Alexander 

Theatre Supply, replacing Charles Katz 

will construct a new film exchange 

building in the 1800 block of the Boulevard 

of the Allies on the far side of the Frank 

& Seder warehouse. The RKO building is 

located on the other side of the warehouse, 

near Miltenberger street. Alpern has had 

Universal as a first-floor tenant for a number 

of years at 1709 Boulevard of the Allies, 

with Republic occupying the second floor. 

When Universal moves into its own new 

building, it is expected that Republic will 

move downstairs to the street level quarters. 

. . . Wally Allen, Allied business 

The late Nathan Katz, attorney for the 

local Allied exhibitors for a number of years, 

was removed from this post while sick. The 

job was given to a government attorney, 

Elliott Finkel 

manager, is representing several trade- 

The Pittsburgh Catholic 

papers here . . . 

ripped the Jordan Theatre at Greenville for 

operating Sunday shows while two miles distant 

in Hempfield township a drive-in theatre 

has operated Sunday shows in season 

for several years without objection. 

A bandit held up Dorothy Porter, cashier 

at the Brighton on the north side, 

demanding "paper money" at pistol point. 

After taking $40 in currency, the gunman 

decided to take silver too and the cashier 

dug up another $20 in rolls of quarters, according 

to Norman Fleishman, manager . 

. . . Arthur 

Charlie Spivak and his band were featured 

March 9 at Shea's in Bradford 

Blake, Altoona native and one-man show, 

appears in "Port of New York," which was 

exhibited at the Strand in Altoona. He is 

the son of Arthur B. Clark, former postmaster 

there. 

A daughter was born to Mr. and Mrs. V. L. 

Wadkins of Latrobe. He is district manager 

of concessions for the Manos circuit . . . 

Harold Lund, on Filmrow here a number of 

years ago and later general manager of Ross 

Federal Research Corp., has resigned as manager 

of Dick Powell Enterprises and has 

returned from Hollywood to join the Walker- 

Downing ad agency here friends 

. 

in the industry mourned Nathan M. Katz, 

50, who died in Montefiore hospital. He was 

attorney for the Allied MPTO of Western 

Pennsylvania. 

Vance Minton, manager of Shea's in Erie, 

reports that "Ballet Russe" attracted patrons 

from near and far . . . Vince Choate. manager 

of Shea's at Bradford, attended the 

same school in Manchester, N. H., where Dr. 

Hermann Sander, the "mercy death" figure, 

studied . . . John Bennett is the new member 

of the Warner circuit's local advertising 

department. He replaces Ray Caputo, resigned 

. . . "The Red Shoes" enjoyed a very 

good six-week engagement at the Barry. It 

was followed by "Guilty of Treason." 

Jacques Lee Kahn, subject of the "Who's 

Who" in music circles as published in the 

Press March 5. is Jack Kahn, assistant advertising 

director for Warner Theatres in this 

area. He is described as "an able musician, 

former KDKA announcer, air force member, 

Pittsburgh 

area browned out during the final week of 

the soft coal strike. Theatre marquees remained 

unlit and theatres were not sufficiently 

heated for comfort. Loew's Penn 

skipped its regular Friday midnight show (3) 

because of a 50 per cent power curtailment. 

. 

. . . Joseph at the local exchange 

Callahan, who reported here 

Edward 

from New 

pianist and composer" 

Haven, is sales representative 

the new main line 

for United Artists, joining Jack Bell- 

man, newly appointed UA salesman for the 

West Virginia area service from Pittsburgh. 

Mrs. Florence Fisher Parry, I Dare Say 

columnist of the Pittsburgh Press for 21 years, 

has retired and moved to California. A former 

actress, left a widow with small children, 

she was drama editor of the old Pittsburgh 

Sun before joining the Press staff and she 

conducted photographic studios here for many 

years. She was one of the motion picture 

industry's finest friends. 

Sledgehammers were used in battering open 

the safe at the Mount Oliver Theatre on 

Brownsville road early one recent morning. 

The safecrackers took off with $1,500. The 

theatre is one of the units of Morris M. 

Finkel, Allied MPTO president Eddie 

. . . 

Cantor and wife will be here March 19 to 

touch off the United Jewish Appeal drive 

Mark Serventi recently presented the 

Rimer and West eight-act vaudeviUe show at 

his Mark in Petrolia. 

The Grance Outdoor Theatre, Inc., was 

chartered by Theodore Grance, Dario Castelli 

and John A. Robb Burger, Warner 

. 

circuit area pubUcity director, appeared on 

BOXOFHCE :: March 18. 1950

. . Legion 

. . The 

. . Mr. 

. . "Samson 

. . Louis 

. . Max 

. . Harry 

. . 

. . Esther 

WPIT urging the repeal of the federal amusement 

tax 

. . . John O. Glaus, recently transferred 

by Warner circuit from Ambridge to 

Oil City as manager of the Latonia, succeeding 

Merwyn Sargent, resigned, has been seeking 

living quarters at Oil City for his wife 

and son. 

Air Force Ass'n members of the Ohio valley 

and civic leaders were guests of the Capitol 

in Wheeling for the premiere of "Twelve 

O'clock High" . Post 17 honored 

all veterans at a special stage ceremony in 

the New Fairmont at Fairmont in connection 

with the opening of "Battleground" . . . The 

Burwell at Parkersburg staged a two-day entertainment 

for the benefit of the McKinley 

PTA. 

The Craigsville Drive-In has advertised 

throughout the state the fact that it has not 

closed during the winter. In-a-car heaters 

are used. Above the Mason-Dixon line, near 

Uniontown, Pa., the Starlite Drive-In has 

operated without interruption throughout the 

winter without in-a-car heaters, but the management 

provided each car with a gallon of 

gasoline so that the car's motor could be run 

to produce heat. 

An addition to the regular FYiday-Saturday 

vaudeville at the Capitol in Wheeling, the 

theatre has introduced the Capitolettes, a 

Canned goods and 

chorus of six girls . . . 

bread were accepted last Saturday morning 

at the Lee in Fairmont, the donations at the 

special show being turned over to the Marion 

county emergency assistance committee for 

its school hot lunch program. Don Shultz, 

manager, staged the foodstuffs admission 

show. 

Dipson's Bradford at Bradford staged a 

model airplane identification contest in connection 

with the exhibition of "Twelve 

O'clock High" . Plaza and State at 

Bellefonte have new ad signature cuts . . . 

Harry Fry recently featured Woody Wooddell 

and his Riding Rangers on stage at his Wampum 

in Wampum . and Mrs. John J. 

Maloney are vacationing in Miami Beach. 

The MGM division manager will be absent 

from his office here for a month. 

. 

Political action committee of Local 8, CIO 

textile workers union, Meadville, has resolved 

to back up the movement to repeal the federal 

amusement tax and Delilah" 

is getting $1 top admission, taxes included, 

at the Warner in Erie . . Colonial 

. 

at Farrell presented "Pagliacci" on the screen 

. . . Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Rosenberg, McKees 

does 

only ONE thing 



n«.tr.«" •••»•":" 

CHICAGOi^ârm^NEw york 

v.Ui!ilULV619 Wex S4lh Si. 

CLEVELAND 

Rocks exhibitors, are at home after a sixweek 

vacation at Miami Beach. Son Ben 

looked after the theatres during their absence. 

. . . Marvin 

ganning of "The Bicycle Thief" by the 

MPAA and the attendant publicity boosted 

the picture's business at the Lower Mall 

here, according to Leo Greenberger, owner. 

Picture ran to average business for two 

weeks but increased the third week sufficiently 

to warrant a fourth 

Arent's bachelor dinner will be given in the 

Hickory Grill March 20. Get tickets from 

Harold Raives, Joe Goldstein, Bernie Rubin, 

O.scar Kantor or Judd Spiegle. 

Harry H. Goldstein, Paramount division 

manager, and his wife left on a vacation at 

Coral Gables . Gross' new Central 

Shipping Terminal on East 23rd street will be 

ready for use about April 1. 

Frank Gross, independent circuit owner 

who has been ill for the last six months, 

is making short daily office visits and hopes 

.soon to be able to join the gin rummy colony 

in Florida . . . Myer Fine of A.ssociated, M. B. 

Horwitz of the Washington circuit and Jack 

and Ray Essick of Modern Tlieatres attended 

the 20th-Fox meeting in Chicago. 

Alan Shaw, who recently resigned as United 

Artists booker, is with the Cuyahoga 

Drive-In Theatre Co. as successor to Ben 

Wachnansy. now representing the company 

. 

in the Detroit area Mendel.son 

of the Point, Powhatan Point, was here buying 

product for his Morristown Drive-In on 

Route 40 . . . Another drive-in visitor was 

Phil Smith of Boston. He also was signing 

product contracts for his two Cleveland ozoners. 

the East Side and West Side, which he 

plans to open March 31. 

Joe Shagrin, Youngstown exhibitor who 

can be seen on Filmrow every Monday, reports 

his twin brother Max of Los Angeles 

will be making the rounds with him in a 

week or two . Lefkowich of the Community 

circuit flew up from Miami Beach 

to convince himself that business is really 

way off the beam, then returned to the vacationland 

taking his son Bert along with him. 

Frank Belles, RKO salesman, has a new 

automobile replacing the one that was demolished 

in an accident near Toledo. Neither 

Belles nor Tom Alley, Republic salesman who 

. was his passenger, received a scratch 

Nat Wolf, Warner Ohio zone manager, interrupted 

his Texas vacation to attend a zone 

managers' meeting in New York. Ted Minsky. 

theatre booking manager, also attended the 

meeting. 

Variety Club members are reminded to 

notify Justin Spiegle of Lippert if they plan 

to attend the National Variety convention in 

Pete Wood, 

Xew Orleans April 26-29 . . . 

ITO secretary, urges all exhibitors to help 

the 20 per cent tax repeal movement by 

keeping a trailer on the .screen, displaying 

lobby one-sheets and using all newsreel shots 

Ice-covered highways caused 

on repeal . . . 

casualties among several Hygienic Productions 

salesmen. Zone Manager Kenny Dick 

narrowly escaped death when his car skidded 

tiear Morris, 111., and Bob Little, road superisor 

of unit personnel, suffered internal 

;:ijuries when his new Buick struck a utility 

pole in Youngstown. 

J. S. Jossey, head of Hygienic Productions. 

IS feeling so well that he has postponed indefinitely 

his previously announced western 

vacation trip to regain his health. 

Marl Goldman, former Eagle Lion manager 

who has been seriously 111 for the last 

year, has evidence of the high esteem in 

which he Is held by his fellow film associates. 

Last week they surprised him with a 

16-inch Crosley television .set to help while 

away the hours he spends at home. Oscar 

Kantor of Warner Bros, and O.scar Ruby of 

Columbia headed the committee that negotiated 

the surprise. 

Mike Lesnick, Associated circuit auditor, 

went to Troy, N. Y., the home of his son, 

to undergo an operation . Bender, 

secretary to Paramount Division Manager 

Harry Goldstein, was in Columbus to be with 

her mother who Is suffering from an eye 

ailment. 

The Motion Picture council at its monthly 

meeting in the HIgbee lounge, heard 

James D. Noble, regional director of the 

National Conference of Christians and 

Jews, speaking on "Are Prejudices Natural," 

and Elsie Loeb, BOXOFFICE representative, 

who spoke on the "Origin and Development 

of School Noon Movies In the 

Cleveland public schools." The Junior Youth 

council attended a Saturday morning screenmg 

of "The Bicycle Tlilef at the Lower 

Mall and followed this with an open discussion 

on the film in the Cleveland public 

Library. 

Theatre Advertising, Inc. 

Adds Five New Salesmen 

CLEVELAND—The newly formed Tlieatre 

Advertising, Inc., operated by Bud Barach 

and Oliver T. Pike, has appointed salesmen 

Perry Morris, Harry Linguist, Joseph Budin, 

Theodore Kreuzer and Stanley Meade. Theatre 

Advertising specializes in merchant-theatre 

tieups of nationally advertised products 

given away at the theatre at no cast to the 

exhibitor. 

New Front Is Installed 

B Fill, AIRE, OHIO—A new front costing 

$900 has been Installed at the Capitol. 



Do it today. 

TO 1-6934 5 

OLIVER THEATRE SUPPLY CO.. INC. 

EVERYTHING FOR THE THEATRE' 

DRIVE-IN THEATRES OUR 

n SPECIALTY 

East 23rd St & Pavnc A.c Cleveland, Ohio 


. . Charles 

. . Jack 

. . Matt 

. . Spud 

. . Mrs. 

. . Floyd 

. . W. 

DETROIT 

illiam de L'Horbe 

w 

jr., authority on kiddieland 

construction for drive-ins, may manager for the newly acquired Stanley, 

Wisper has appointed Tony Witkowski as 

move his home to Detroit . 

Collins, 

manager of the Roseville, is sporting Tony's former post as relief manager for 

while Salvatore Salome has been named to 

the 

blisters in his hands from doing a bit of 

amateur upholstery . . . Arnold Wisper, Maxwell 

I. Silverstein and Harry J. Goldberg are 

forming the Stanley Theatre, Inc., in connection 

with their new west side acquisition. 

James W. Padfield, who formerly headed 

Local B179, is going to take life leisurely 

now that the Paradise has closed . . Arnold 

. 

SERVICE-QUALITY-PRICE 

COLD CHIPS 

Potato Chips Exclusively for the Theohe Trade. 

VETERAN FOOD PRODUCTS, INC. 

Mt. Elliott Ave. Detroit U, 6439 Mich. 

Phone WAlnut 1-5516 

Theatrp Sign and Marquee Maintenance 

f/^T^— 

Our Specialty 

WxlHorstman ^Co, 

WOodord 5-4050 

2821 Brooklyn 

L O L THEATRE CONCESSION 

INCREASED PROFITS - DECREASED WORRIES 

PERSONALIZED SUPERVISED SERVICE 

DRIVE-IN AND INDOOR THEATRES 

2937 St. Aubin Detroit 7, Mich. 

Phone Te. 13352 Te. 13884 

Auto City circuit . . . Pearce Bradley and 

Julius Fischer of the Avenue booth moved 

over to the reopened Gayety. 

James Vhay of Ross Roy was riding homeward 

on his commuter train the other night 

when he recalled he'd driven to work that 

day . . Jack Akins, posing for the staff 

. 

photographer, was blinded by the flash and 

Joseph J. Lee 

promptly rolled a strike . . . 

and Al Levy of 20th-Fox were in Chicago for 

a sales conference Saxe of Monogram 

will move back to his summer home in 

. 

Canada when the weather permits. 

Al Broder is drumming up trade at the 

Seville with a "crazy auction" every Friday 

. . Martial Mino of Highland Park left 

the Columbia as manager with the dropping 

of the midnight shift ... Mr. and Mrs. 

William R. Moesta have left for six weeks in 

Miami after giving up their apartment here. 

Charles Walters of the Krim enjoyed a reunion 

in the Fox building with his old boss, 

Edward Hochstim, Columbia 

Boris Bernardi . . . 

manager, has selected a conservative 

topcoat for his spring wardrobe . . 

Sidney 

. 

Foreman, theatrical accountant, has been 

auditing the books for Midwest in Its new 

August Sermo and WiUiam Miller, 

offices . . . 

manager and assistant, respectively, at the 

Madison, cornered a bandit who ran off with 

$800 of theatre cash two blocks from the 

house. 

James C. Rltter, former Allied States president, 

is feeling fine but taking life easy, coming 

down to the office about once a week, 

while his son Del is active boss at the Rialto 

and Rivola . . . James Cunningham, formerly 

at the Punch and Judy, is back at the extra 

board after a brief workout at the Columbia 

prior to the change of policy eliminating 

24-hour operation. 

Arnold London and Bernard and Leonard 

Brooks moved the offices of Associated circuit 

downstairs just below their old site at 

721 Pox Theatre building when the big ad 

agency next door took over . H. 

Akins, secretary of the Nightingales, regretfully 

reports the gang didn't do so well this 

time in the AFL tournament, but he was 

still one of the boys in the money. 

Boris Bernardi, supervisor for Midwest, was 

best man over the weekend at Chicago for 

the marriage of Jos Grossman, manager of 

the "High Button Shoes" company, and 

Rozyska, danseuse in the company . . . Mike 

Colton, veteran at the Colonial, suffers from 

rheumatism but manages to stay on the job 

. . . Marty Shore and Carl Beals, the Colonial's 

wandering minstrels, are back after 

two months touring the country with roadshows. 

Harry Owen, pinch-hitting at the Cinderella 

while Cass Newell suntans in Florida, 

won third prize in the dog show with his toy 

Manchester . Haskin of the Cinderella 

spent the weekend shooting skeets . . . Earl 

Hudson, LTDT president, just back from Chicago, 

headed off again for New York. 

Tom Ealand of the Perndale vacationed 

in Liakeland, Fla. . . . Ted McGlinnen and J. 

Jeorgopoulos are the new members of Theatrical 

post . . . Harry Carson returned from 

Los Angeles in improved health . J. 

"Pop" Stolz of the Norwood is the Poppy day 

chairman for the American Legion this year. 

Arthur "Buddy" Field is official columnist 

for the Keynote, musicians' local paper . . . 

Max Kolin started his long-awaited vacation, 

with George Frederick pinch-hitting . . . Mrs. 

Dolly Haartge has become a grandmother for 

the first time . Seall and Jack Williams 

are voting strong for midnight meetings 

at Theatrical post. 

For All 

• Motiograph "AA" Projectors 

• Motiograph Sound Systems 

• Irwin Chairs 

• Strong Projection Lamps 

• U. S. Air Conditioning 

• Wagner Changeable Letters 

• Strong Rectifiers 

• Motiograph In Car Speakers 

• Cycloramic Screens 

• Kollmorgen Coated Lenses 

The Better Theatre Iquipmenf 

See 

RINGOLD 

Distributors for Michigan 

• Altec-Lansing Speakers 

• Royal Chrome Furniture 

• Star Popcorn Machines 

• Super-Service Vacuum Cleaners 

• Coinometer Change Makers 

• Strong Reflectors 

• Curtain Controls and Tracks 

• GoldE Automatic Enclosed Rewinds 

• Neumade Film Cabinets and Tables 

• National Projector Carbons 

Twenty-four hour projection and sound service 

RINGOLD THEATRE EQUIPMENT COMPANY 

106 Michigan St., N. W., Grand Rapids 2, Mich. 

Telephone GLendale 4-8852 Nights and Sundays 3-2413 

Jerry Brie, stagehands business agent, sent 

the gang some special tickets . . . Mrs. Margaret 

Lemma, secretary, is getting acquainted 

with her new neighbors around the Midwest 

Frank "Rudy" Rudzki, manager 

offices . . . 

of the King, was back on the job after an 

operation at Ypsilanti hospital . . . Clyde 

Haskill of the Sheridan vacationed at Lapeer, 

while Ronald Newton, who used to operate 

back in England until two years ago, pinchhit 

.. . Richard St. Peter, formerly at the 

Rialto, is new assistant to John Penrod, manager 

of the Sheridan . Vivian Rabold 

and Mary Blackburn joined the general office 

and bookkeeping staffs of Associated circuit. 

St. Louis Councilman Kill 

Bill to Bar Segregation 

ST. LOLUS—The board of aldermen's legislative 

committee voted six to one to kill a 

bill which would have barred segregation of 

Negroes and whites in practically all of the 

public places of St. Louis, including theatres. 

Louis G. Berra, 24th ward, chairman of the 

committee, said the majority of the aldermen 

felt that such an ordinance should be submitted 

to the people of St. Louis at a general 

election. 

76 

BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18, 1950

'High' Earns Fine 175 

In Cincinnati Debut 

CINCINNATI—The new attraction at the 

Capitol. "Twelve O'clock High." ran away 

with the honors last week, ringing a neat 

175, one of the best figures in recent weeks. 


Albee—Thelma Jordon (Para) 90 

Capitol—Twelve O'Clock High (20lh-Fox) 175 

Grand—Key to the City (MGM). 2nd wk 110 

Keiths—Borderline (U-I) 100 

Lync—Shadow of a Doubt (U-l), Frisco Sal (U-I); 

Night Monster (U-I); Mad Ghoul (U-l) 70 

Palace—Beyond the Forest (WB) 

Shubert — When Willie Comes Marching 

90 

Home 

d. 110 

(20lh-Fox), 3rd wk t. 

'Samson' and "Outlaw' Best 

In Slow Detroit Week 

DETROIT—Business generally went into 

the doldrums, with the top dollars going to 

"Samson and Delilah" and two revivals. "The 

Red Shoes" and "The Outlaw." Detail for 

week ending March 9: 

Adams—The Red Shoes (EL), 2nd wk 100 

Cinema— It Happened in Europe (Loperl) 80 

Downtown—Challenge to Lassie (MGM); Tension 

(MGM) _ 60 

Fox—The Tattooed Stranger (RKO); The Outlaw 

(RKO) 120 

Madison—Samson and Delilah (Para), 7th wk 105 

Michigan—Dear Wiie (Para); The Hidden Room 

(EL) 100 

Falms-State—Guilty of Treoson (EL); Unmasked 

(Rep) 90 

United Artists-The Fallen Idol (SRO) 80 

MPAA Ban on "Bicycle' 

Aids Cleveland Run 

CLEVELAND—Business picked up at the 

Lower Mall on "The Bicycle Thief" following 

announcement of the MPAA ban. The gross 

went 20 per cent over average in the film's 

fourth week. "The Red Shoes." in its second 

week at the Esquire at popular prices, registered 

the week's high of 170. Most of the 

Service - ... 

- 

Repairs 

DETROIT POPCORN CO. 

READY-TO-EAT POPPED CORN 

Corn - Seasoning - Boxes Bags - - Salt 

POPCORN MACHINES i CARAMEL CORN EQOIPMENT 

5G33 Grand River Ave. Phone TYler 4-6912 

Detroit 8. Mich. Nights- UN 3-1468 

rio\'SH PROGRAMS 

ONE DAY SERVICE 

THEATRICAL ADV. 

CO. 

SERVING EXHIBITORS FOR 33 YEARS' 

231D CASS WO. 1-2158. DETROIT. 1, MICH 

FILM EXCHANGE DRUGS 

The Showman's Drug Store 

• * 

)rug8 

Cosmetics 

Prescriptions 

Personal Service from Two Showmen- 

MAX BERNBAUM lACK GALLAGHER 

Pharmacist 

Manager 

Phone CLiiford 1527. CLillord 3694 

>«#^#^#^#^9^^%^^^k^%^kl^tl^%''ii^^ 

.ur Heywood - Wakolii 

fating Representative. 

Century Theatre Bldg. 

6519 14th St.. 

Detroit 8. Mich. 

Phono: TYler 3-5629 

new films skinned through a week of bad 

weather with the exception of "Mother Didn't 

Tell Me." which hit 120. 

Allen—Mother Didn't Tell Me (20lh-Fox) 120 

Esquire—The Rod Shoes (EL), 2nd v/k 170 

Hippodrome -The Sundowners (EL) 100 

Lower Mai; The Bicycle Thiol (M-B), 3rd wic 170 

Ohio—Key to the City (MGM), 2nd d. t. wk 135 

Palace—The Man on the Eillel Towei (RKO) 100 

State—Thelma lordon (Para) 70 

Slillmom—Samson and Delilah (Para), 6lh and 

last wk 100 

'Samson' Grosses 340 Per Cent 

At Pittsburgh Warner 

PITTSBURGH—"Samson and Delilah." at 

increased admission prices, was outstanding 

in the Golden Triangle, opening at the Warner. 

Loew's Penn had an easy winner in 

"Key to the City." which won a holdover. 

Fulton—Dancing in the Dark (20th-Fox) 60 

Harris—Twelve O'Clock High (20lh-Fox). 2nd wk.. 105 

Penn—Key to the City (MGM) RC 

Stanley—SiromboU (RKO) .. 65 

Warner—Samson and Delilah (Pdta), increased 

prices 340 

Detroit Theatres' Suit 

Stymied in U.S. Court 

DETROIT— Progress of the $8,500,000 lawsuit 

filed in federal court by the Society of 

Independent Motion Picture Producers 

against United Detroit and Cooperative Theatres 

of Michigan a year and half ago has 

been postponed indefinitely by the trial of 

other major court cases. 

Rockwell T. Gust, counsel for UDT. is counsel 

for one of the principals in the current 

Kaiser-Frazer lawsuit before Judge Frank A. 

Picard. which is attracting national attention, 

and A. Stewart Kerr, attorney for 

SIMPE. has another major antitrust case in 

the gray iron castings field due to come up 

for trial before Judge Picard following the 

K-F suit. 

Depositions of major producers, started 

about a year ago at the insistence of defendants, 

is being delayed pending availability of 

counsel involved. Benedict Bogeaus and Sam 

Goldwyn came here last October to testify. 

Misses TV for Movie! 

DETROIT—Motion pictures were responsible 

for television worries in an unusual reverse 

during the Detroit Sports and Boat 

show when Shirley May France, aspiring 

Engli.sh channel swimmer, went to see a show. 

She failed to show up for a scheduled television 

interview and when she showed up 

later her explanation was attributed to forgetfulno,s.s 

and going to the movie. 

Detroit BPI Expands 

DETROIT—A complete motion picture department 

for the specialization of film commercials 

has been added by Broadcast Productions. 

Inc., of Detroit. Lois Michels. president, 

has announced the promotion of Robert 

King to production manager. The firm 

has moved from the Lafayette building to 

larger quarters In the Detroit Music Hall. 

FLOWERS for 

Ever'y Occasion 

LORENZEN'S 

DETHOIT'S THEATRICAL FLORIST 

TOwnsend 8-6232 

16457 Woodward Ave.. Detroit 3. Mich. 

Rosalie Kitson Takes Over 

Courtesy Theatre, Detroit 

DETROIT — The Courtesy Theatre, west 

side neighborhood house here, has been 

taken over by Miss Rosalie Kitson of Romulus, 

Mich., as sole owner. Her former partner 

Miles Glasser. who was manager, has resigned. 

Miss Kitson. who operates a nursing 

home for small children at Romulus, is taking 

active charge of the hou.se, with Mr. and 

Mrs. Matthew Tj'ler assisting her. Charles 

Stucki. formerly projectionist at the Kin^ 

Theatre, has assumed similar duty at the 

Courte.sy. He replaces Arthur Sedgwick, who 

moved back to his old assignment at the 

Kum-C on the east side. 


DELUXE 

THEATRE EQUIPMENT 

*BRENKERT PROJECTORS 

*RCA SOUND SYSTEMS 

*RCA RECTIFIERS 

*RCA 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 

DR/Vf-/N THEATRES OUR 

SPECIALTY 

ERNIE FORBES 

THEATRE SUPPLY 

Film Bldg., Detroit 1, Mich. 

Days 

WO 1-1122 

WO 1-1123 

Nights 

VE 7-1227 

BOXOFFICE March 18. 1950 77

. . Mark 

. . Members 

. . Terry 

. . Charles 

. . New 

CINCINNATI 

lyjany out-of-towners were on the Row during 

the week, including Jack Needham, 

Columbus; Prank Allora, Matewan, W. Va.; 

Moe Potasky, Troy, Ohio; Louis Shor, Williamson. 

W. Va.; Don Keesling and Goode 

Homes, Bramwell, W. Va.; Roy Wells and 

William Clegg. Dayton; Roy Letsinger, Jenkins, 

Ky.; John Gregory, Dayton; Jack Steadman, 

Marietta; Vernon Berg, Yellow Springs; 

Bob Harrell, Cleves; Harry McHaffie. Marmet, 

W, Va. . Cummins, who returned 

from Plorida recently, also was on 

the Row arranging for the opening of his 

Acme Drive-In at Stockton and the Blue 

Grass Drive-In, Georgetown, Ky. 

Bob Laws joined Eagle Lion Monday as 

office manager, replacing Jack Desmond, resigned 

. . . Harold Rullman, Dayton salesman 

for Columbia Pictures, was down with 

the flu. 

Martin Junk, owner of the Sharon Theatre 

in Sharonville, and the Frankfort in Frankfort, 

Ohio, has acquired the Town Hall, 

Batavia. from Frank Monjar . . Members 

. 

of the Ten-Three Ladies society are working 

in their "Gay Nineties Revue," which they 

hope to stage in the near future. Harris 

Rosedale, who has a dance studio here and 

presents amateur shows in theatres, and his 

wife are directing the skit. 

Nat Nathanson, recently appointed division 

manager for UA, was due here to confer with 

Manager Jack Finberg and his sales crew 

Nathanson will be accompanied by District 

Manager Joe Dudelson . 

of the 

Variety Club enjoyed a Monte Carlo night 

Saturday (18 >. Plans are now under way for 

the annual spring dance, to be held in May 

or early 

new 

June . . . Anna May Yunger is a 

clerk at MGM, replacing Ruth Kohls 

MIDWEST THEATRE SUPPLY CO., Inc. 

EVERYTHING FOR THE THEATRE" 

DRIVE-IN THEATRES OUR 

SPECIALTY 

1638 Central Parkway, Cincinnati 10, Ohio 

WE INVITE YOU 

CHerry 

7725 

to look oyer both the Indoor and Drive-In 

theatres we currently have under construction. 

VOGEL BUILDING COMPANY 

Liberty Theatre Building 

WellsviUe Oliio, "• • 

Phone 74 

NOW. 

THEATRE SEATS 

Upholstered, Repaired, Anywhere. Better Materials. 

Workmanship Guorcmleed, Prompt Service, 

Reasonable 

JOHN HEIDT 

1507 W. Kirby Detroit 8, Mich. 

Phone: TYlor 7-80IS 

Who was married last November and has resigned. 

The Twins Drive-In here opened March 1 

with "All the King's Men," followed by "Jolson 

Sings Again," ran into snow and the 

coldest weather of the entire winter, but had 

excellent results, aided by the individual car 

heaters, according to Manager Ben Cohen. 

Terry Stenger, secretary at Film Classics 

who underwent an appendicitis operation 

last week, is convalescing at home . . . Globe 

Theatre Service will book and buy for the 

new drive-in at Chillicothe, scheduled to open 

about May 15 . . . Erdine Carter, assistant 

WB cashier, is planning to spend several 

weeks in Florida. 

Roy White, 20th-Fox salesman, was not 

transferred to the West Virginia territory vacated 

by William Garner but continues in his 

old district made up of sections of Ohio, Kentucky 

and West Virginia . . . Eddie Sonz of 

the Sonz Theatre Advertising Co., Memphis, 

was a Filmrow visitor. The company offers 

a premium deal . . . Morris Lefko, RKO district 

manager, conferred with Manager Stanley 

Jacques. 

Margaret Moss resigned as secretary-booker 

at Belpik Corp. to join Cooperative Theatre 

Service as booker. Mrs. Janet Lantry succeeded 

her at Belpik . . . F. J. Huss jr. was 

home ill several days . Stenger, secretary 

at F^lm Classics, was in a hospital 

for an appendectomy . . Filmrow visitors 

. 

included Al and Bill Thalheimer of Logan, 

W. Va., and Charles Behlen, Lexington, Ky. 

Manny Marcus, Fort Wayne circuit operator, 

conferred with Vic Coffel, local manager. 

He returned to Florida where his wife and 

son are staying. The son still is convalescing 

from injuries suffered in a car accident a 

year ago. 

Lillian Ahern, secretary to J. J. Grady at 

Paramount, and Ann Welling, secretary at 

the Greater Cincinnati Independent Exhibitors 

office, were back on the job after illnesses. 

P. W. Huss jr. is president of Independent 

Exhibitors, Louis Wiethe is vicepresident, 

Mrs. M. M. Weinig, secretary, and 

Maurice White, treasurer. Willard Gervers, 

Willis Vance and Jonas Thomas are on the 

board. 

Charles Lloyd Baker has been transferred 

from the Rialto here to the Elmwood in 

Elmwood Place, Ohio, as manager. Both 

houses are part of the Galley circuit of which 

James Wood is general manager. Baker, 

who holds a BS degree, is active in many 

civic affairs. M. J. McNamee will take over 

managerial duties at the Rialto. 

H. M. McHaffie, Marmeta. W. Va., who 

recently returned from a trip to Mexico and 

Central America, plans to spend his summer 

vacation touring through Prance 

Clemmer, who has drive-ins in 

. . . 

Eaton 

Lou 

and 

Miamisburg, is constructing another in Fairborn, 

which he hopes to open in May. 

Matty Pearson, publicist for UA, was here 

working on the new Ronnie Alcorn production, 

"Johnny Holiday," which opened in the 

RKO Palace this week . Rich, district 

manager, presided at a meeting held 

in Indianapolis Monday (131, which was attended 

by the Cincinnati crew, headed by 

Manager James Abrose . Ford cars 

are beginning to arrive here for the Warner 

salesmen. 

Abe Hyman, Huntington, is convalescing 

from a heart attack he suffered recently and 

friends on Filmrow are happy to hear of 

his recovery . . . Etta Kuhlman, secretary 

to WB office manager George Dallmeyer, has 

been home ill with a sinus infection. Another 

WB employe, shipper Joe Jansen, suffered 

a broken ankle in a fall off a ladder. 

Erie Dispatch Editorial 

Urges Ticket Tax Repeal 

ERIE, PA.—The Erie Dispatch joined the 

motion picture industry's battle for removal of 

the 20 per cent federal amusement tax with 

an editorial in which it described the levy 

as an "unfair, discriminatory tax, masquerading 

as an emergency levy." 

"Moreover," the editorial continued, "we 

believe the tax shouldn't merely be cut. It 

should be abolished. It was cut once before, 

back in the 1920s. But it stayed on the books. 

And it was resorted to in 1932, added to in 

1940, doubled in 1941, doubled again in 1944. 

All in the name of emergency. Once a tax 

is levied, it's well-nigh impossible to erase. 

This one needs erasing." 

Zoo Films Completed 

DETROIT—Capitol Film Productions of 

East Lansing, Mich., recently completed a 

series of 10-minute films for the Detroit 

zoological gardens entitled "North America," 

"South America," "Africa and Asia," "Joe 

Mendi's Theatre" and "Belle Isle Zoo." The 

films, which are in color, are available from 

the Detroit zoological park upon request. 


LOOK! 


"SPOTTY" 


"SPOT TAG GAME" 


"BLOTTY" 

For Fun . . . Laffs . . . And 


PLAY 

"SPOT TAG" 


Populor Intermission Game 


— 


Spot Tag No. 2 17.50 






DRIVE-IN THEATRE COMBINATION £XIT 

and EXIT DRIVEWAY FLOODLIGHT 

Also available with Erilraiice Panels 

Arrows may be either right or left. 

ORI¥£.IH THEATRE MFG. CO. 

iJrs.Psw"'.' 


p. J, Wood Urges Care 

In Answering Query 

CX>LUMBUS—Figures on how many employes 

are covered by some sort of payment 

plan for time lost because of sickness is included 

in information sought by the department 

of industrial relations in Form U24 just 

released to 75,000 Ohio employers. 

The report, titled "Annual Report to Department 

of Industrial Relations for Year 

Ending Dec. 31. 1949" has a notice that it is 

"to be filed by March 15." Inasmuch as the 

form is just now being sent to employers, and 

since compiling the required data will take 

considerable time, the department has advised 

the Independent Theatre Owners of Ohio th.il 

"second notices" will not go forward before 

April 10. 

REQUIRED BY LAW 

Completion of the report, mandatory under 

Ohio law, will require answers to two major 

questions not previously asked Ohio employers. 

Question three directs the employer to 

give detailed wage data broken down by 

employe age and sex. Answers to this question 

will prove valuable to the director of 

industrial relations if and when a minimum 

wage board is appointed to consider the 

establishnaent of wage floors in Ohio affect- 

EXPLAINED BY WOOD 

It is important, ITOO Secretary P. J. Wood 

points out, that Ohio exhibitors exercise care 

in answers to question five. They will want 

to insure that these replies reflect a proper 

statement of personnel practices, 

"If," Wood says, "in your theatre or theatres 

you have a type of group health and 

accident insurance with cash payments to employes, 

list under (1) the number of your 

employes covered by such a plan. If, on the 

other hand, you continue to pay ailing or 

injured employes for more than one week, 

enter under (2) the number of employes who 

might receive such payments if they were 

to become sick or injured off-the-job. (3) is 

for those employes who are eligible to receive 

cash sickness benefits under a union 

or mutual aid plan. 

"If none of these items (1), (2) or c3) can 

be answered affirmatively, then and only 

then, should you check item (41," 

Solon P. W. Shafer Answers 

Tax Repeal Postcards 

BATTLE CREEK, MICH.—U. S. Rep. Paul 

W. Shafer of Battle Creek has gotten his 

share of repeal the amusement tax postcards. 

In one day, Shafer received 1.000 

cards from his constituents. They have arrived 

in such volume that Shafer and other 

congressmen have had to resort to mimeographed 

replies. 

Bud Abbott and Wife of 32 Years 

Remarried in 

Springfield Ritual 

Film comedian liiid Ablmtt. third from left, gets a giant "key to the city" from 

Loop. G. Yeuell, citv commissioner, upon the star's arrival to visit a friend, Harry 

Rittoff. Left to right: G. John Morcan, C'rowell-Collicr Publishing Co. official; Fred 

Merrell of the Chamber of Commerce; .\bbott; Police Inspector Lawrence .Abbott; 

Yeuell. Sheriff J. Arthur Shuman. Police Chief Waller L. Sweet, Traffic Chief Charles 

C. Scott and Rittoff. 

SPRINGFIELD—Bud Abbott of the famed 

Abbott and Costello film comedy team and 

his Irish wife of almost 32 years were remarried 

here in the Jewish faith. The cere- 

ing theatres. 

Question five of the form was included at 

mony took place in the Hotel Shawnee. Rabbi 

the request of the temporary disability unemployment 

insurance commission. The law set- 

Samuel Harris of Dayton, retired, performed 

the Abbott remarriage. Mr. and Mrs. Abbott 

ting up the commission directed it to study 

are in this city visiting their friend Harry 

the extent of private plans for paying employes 

who are off work because of illness 

Rittoff. 

The Abbotts were married in a Christian 

and off-the-job injuries, in order to determine 

the need for state action in this field. 

ceremony 32 years ago next September at 

Alexandria, Va.. where Mrs. Abbott was appearing 

at a theatre and Bud was working 

Presumably the extent of private coverage 

will gauge the report which the commission 

in the boxoffice. 

will make to the next legislature. 

Approximately 350 guests crowded the 

main dining room at the hotel for the ceremony. 

Bud's wife was as much emotionally 

touched at the end of the impressive rites as 

Bud. Standing arm in arm later, they accepted 

best wishes in tears. The ebullient 

Abbott for once had nothing to say. All he 

could do was nod. 

The Abbott ceremony took place following 

the marriage earlier of Joan Rittoff and 

Samuel Kahn. president of the Gem City 

Loan Co., Dayton. Rabbi Harris said the 

Abbotts were "so impressed with the ceremony 

of the Jewish faith that they came to 

me afterwards and expressed their desire to 

become remarried." 

Abbott said both he and his wife had been 

thinking for several years of remarrying in 

the Jewish faith in deference to Bud's mother. 

Mrs. Rachel Fi-scher Abbott. Bud's wife, 

whose maiden name was Jennie Mae Spratt. 

is Catholic. 

The actor came here two weeks ago for the 

Rittoff-Kahn rites. While in Springfield, he 

announced that a string of television stores 

will be opened under the Joint ownership of 

Harry Rittoff and Abbott. They will be 

known as Bud Abbott Television stores. 

He was greeted at the airport by officials 

of the city government, fire and police departments. 

Chamber of Commerce top businessmen, 

the sheriff and theatremen. 

Abbott was presented a giant key to the 

city, was made an honorary memljer of police 

and fire departments and an honorary deputy 

sheriff. He also got a "key to the county 

jail." The jail "key" brought a whoop of delight 

from Abbott. "Now if they put me in 

that place. I can let myself out." he .shouted. 

When Abbott was introduced to Police In- 

.spector Lawrence A. Abbott, the film comedian 

immediately attempted to "claim kin." 

It's easy to become a comedian. Abbott 

declared. "It's in the buildup. A comedian 

is announced and the audience keyed to 

accept anything the comedian says or does 

when he walks on the stage." 

He scoffed at reports that a rift had 

occurred between him and Costello. The reports 

have been the result of the comedians' 

having made no new picture in more than 

a year. His partner had been ill for months 

but has now recovered. Abbott explained. The 

team is expected to make a picture soon, 

starring with Roy Rogers, although the contract 

has not yet been signed. 

Abbott said he was "in no rush" to enter 

the television entertainment field. He said 

the comedy team Is expected to go to Germany 

this summer to entertain American 

troops. 

The comedian's trip here followed the arrival 

earlier of Mrs. Abbott and the comedian's 

sister Olive. 

Good News for the Small Town Exhibitor 

"Protect Your investment" 

InTcsligat* lh< poMibilitiM of ilarting a PORT 

ABLE ISmm ROUTE OF STORE ROOM THEATRES 

ALSO INVESTIGATE lh» pon.ibiUK.i oi building a 

300 car 16oim DRIVE-IN THEATRE, compl.l. wilh 

30x40 loot .cr.«n lor S6.000.00. 

W* tMl or xll all makM oi lEmm "arc " or 

"bulb" projection oqpt. W» boT* tb« world'* 

loagol libroricl Irom coail lo coait. 100% arail 

abilily on all lEnun lound iilni product on th« 

marlot. lucb a% "Fox, UniroraaMnKmaHonal. Columbia. 

»\c." Rental ratoii lot lull langib laaturM 

wilh Ibr** •horti and •rial. S7.M & SIO.OO sic. 

For compUto details and a copy ol our lale»t 30tb 

onniTiraarT catalogue, write lo the lollowing 

addreea: 

IDEAL PICTURES CO. 

A. I. SI. Clair, Rep, Box 310 BecVley. W. Va. 


. . Mrs. 

SPRINGFIELD 

n full-size fuselage of a B-45 four-jet light 

bomber was on display in front of the 

Regent Theatre here for the opening of 

"Twelve O'clock High." Manager John Huffman 

arranged for the exhibition with officials 

at Wright-Patterson Air Force base. 

He also decorated his lobby with other air 

force articles. There was a gun turret, parachutes 

and a seat ejection device which 

shoots a pilot clear of a disabled plane. Special 

windows were installed along the side 

of the B-45 so that first nighters could see 

the many flight and operational instruments 

used by the pilot and his three-man crew. 

Capable of carrying more than ten tons in 

addition to its own weight of 41.3 tons, the 

B-45 is the first four-jet aircraft to be 

adopted as an operational plane by the 

USAF. 

Robert Kunisiak is the new manager of the 

Midway at Fairborn, Ohio, replacing Martha 

Reed Bogard . . . The Murphy at Wilmington 

will get a new marquee, says Manager 

Joe Murphy . . . Marie Wilkin, manager of 

the Cliftona at Circleville, is vacationing in 

Florida. Subbing for her is Bob Baker, assistant 

manager of the Murphy at Wilmington. 

Michael H. Chakeres, general manager of 

the Springfield Theatre Co.. says Henry Wilcoxon, 

one of the stars in "Samson and 

Delilah," will visit Springfield for the opening 

of the picture. Wilcoxon will speak at 

several luncheon clubs with a combined audience 

of more than 1,000 persons . . . Woodrow 

"Woody" Owens, manager of the Ma- 

$8,427 ERECTS THIS 

NEW SCREEN TOWER 

Compel attention and assure biggest box 

returns v/ith this impressive tower. 

A FEW OUTSTANDING FEATURES 

Overall size: 50 ft. x 40 

ft. 

¥. Screen size: 44 ft. x 33 

* Ready for the Picture 

* Great wind resistance Nothing else to huy 

$6,857 without attraction boards and wings 

— 

jestic, decorated his lobby in real jungle 

fashion for the showing of "Zamba." 

Spring has arrived as far as the Star Dust 

Drive-In is concerned. They already have 

opened despite March snows and cold 

weather. The city's other two drive-ins still 

Frank Collins, general 

are "hibernating . . . 

manager for Chakeres Theatres, says the Lake 

Drive-In near Celina and the Wilmington 

Drive-In at Wilmington will open April 22. 

Tom Bochert will manage the Lake and Bob 

Baker the Wilmington. 

Formation of a quarter-million-dollar television 

store chain has been announced here 

by actor Bud Abbott and Harry Rittoff, 

Springfield industrialist. Papers for establishment 

of the $250,000 corporation, to be 

known as Bud Abbott Television stores, already 

have been filed. The stores will be 

opened in Cincinnati, Dayton, Akron, Cleveland, 

Columbus and Indianapolis. "We are 

on our way to becoming the television kings 

of the nation," Abbott said. Rittoff and 

Abbott have been friends for several years. 

All Chakeres managers will attend a oneday 

20th-Fox showmanship meeting in Cincinnati 

March 23. Michael H. Chakeres says, 

"the inspiration I'm sure our managers will 

get out of the meeting will make them better 

showmen and help the sagging boxoffice," 

Chakeres said. He has just returned from 

the 20th-Fox showmanship convention held 

in Chicago, which he classed as one of the 

greatest things ever to be initiated by any 

studio. 

Mrs. Bertha Frank, mother of Lea Frank, 

Chakeres employe, died . . . Janice Richards 

of the Chakeres booking department is engaged 

to Dwight East, a former Chakeres 

theatre manager . Joan McClure of 

the Chakeres auditing department has resigned. 

Blatt Estate Escapes 

Taxation in New York 

MAYVILLE, N. Y.—An estate valued at a 

quarter-million dollars, left by William J. 

Blatt, escaped taxation in New York state, 

according to an order handed down by Surrogate 

Hugh V. N. Bodine in Chautauqua 

county. 

Blatt, who died in February 1949, was a 

nonresident of New York state. The case 

came before the Chautauqua county court 

because the Blatt family owns a cottage on 

Chautauqua Lake. With brothers Charles and 

John and other members of the family, William 

J. Blatt operated a circuit of theatres 

in western Pennsylvania. The estate, totaling 

$256,369.56, passes to his wife Julia, his sons, 

William J. jr. and James, and daughters, Jean 

Anne, Carol May and Mary Judith, all of 

Mount Lebanon, near Pittsburgh. 

Booth Man Vacations in Florida 

PORTSMOUTH, OHIO—W. Edward Davis 

jr., projectionist at Warners' LaRoy Theatre, 

spent two weeks vacation in Florida, fishing. 

He went as far as Key West. 

Alfred Hayes will script "Haircut." a Ring 

Lardner original, to be produced by Jerry 

Wald for Warners. 

Carriers to Operate 

Under Rules of ICC 

CLEVELAND—Members of the Ohio Film 

Carriers' Ass'n and representatives of the 

Interstate Commerce commission have declared 

films an interstate shipment and have 

ruled that all haulers of film must come 

under the jurisdiction and regulation of the 

Interstate Commerce commission. The ruling 

followed a meeting of the groups in Columbus. 

The ruling is based on a recent Supreme 

Court decision stating that, since films do 

not originate within the state but are shipped 

into the state, they are ICC shipments. 

To conform with Interstate Commerce commission 

regulations, the entire structure of 

film haulers must be revised, routes changed, 

additional drivers added and new equipment 

provided. 

Under ICC jurisdiction, drivers are confined 

to a maximum ten-hour driving period 

at any one time. At present, some routes require 

16 hours driving time. These routes 

will have to be rescheduled. ICC regulations 

also require periodic drivers' examinations 

and additional safety equipment including 

fire extinguishers and flares. 

Ohio film carriers operated under ICC regulations 

from 1935 to 1938, when the ruling 

was reversed. Attending the meeting were 

all members of the Ohio Film Carriers Ass'n: 

Louis Gross, president; E. S. Johnson, George 

Thomas, Leonard Albrecht. Art Marchand, 

Richard Gross, Charles Johnson, Cleveland; 

Irwin Albright, Toledo; Tom Larkin and Bob 

Larkin, Cincinnati: Jack Kavanaugh and 

Gene Hazelton, Columbus, and Larry Tuccio, 

Bellaire. Representing the ICC were the entire 

staff of the Public Utilities and Interstate 

Commerce commission of the Ohio district. 

Representing the carriers was attorney 

Daniel Armstrong of Columbus. 

New Bingo Test Case Filed 

For Ruling on Legality 

AKRON—New test 

of the legality of bingo 

and keno operations flourishing here is being 

sought in Summit county common pleas 

court. Mrs. Ruth Levine, Cleveland, has 

filed suit asking the court to declare whether 

operations of the Liberal club are legal. 

If the court rules they are, then Mrs. Levine 

plans to file action to collect a $2,700 

jackpot she claims she won there last July, 

but was not awarded. If the court decides 

that the operations were illegal, then Mrs. 

Levine could sue only for her gambling loss 

at the Liberal club. 

Issue Student Tickets 

ALIQUIPPA, PA.— Special student tickets, 

which reduce theatre prices to 35 cents, have 

been issued by the superintendeiit of schools. 

Tlie tickets were prepared by J. C. Lund, general 

maiiager of three local theatres, following 

a rquest of the combined Parent-Teacher 

Ass'ns. Each student must sign the student 

ticket card and attach his or her picture, the 

tickets are valid every day except holidays 

and Sundays and are not transferable. 



tax? 

80 BOXOFHCE :: March 18, 1950

Gayety 

Succeeds 

Avenue in Detroit 

DETROIT—After being closed 11 

years, the 

Gayety Theatre was reopened Thursday (16) 

under the management of Arthur damage 

and Morton Jacobs, with a year-around policy 

of burlesque and motion pictures. David 

King was moved over from the Avenue Theatre 

as assistant manager and Prances Parks 

as producer, damage, who for the past 35 

years has run the Avenue in partnership with 

the late Charles Rothstein, closed the house 

Wednesday, 

The Gayety, which has three balconies, has 

been remodeled at an approximate cost of 

$100,000. The Avenue, which is Detroit's oldest 

theatre, dating* back to the 1870s, is to be 

demolished for the new civic center. 

lATSE Portsmouth Local 

Selects New Officers 

PORTSMOUTH. OHIO—lATSE Local 571 

has elected Paul E. Williams president for 

1950. Other new officers are Walter E. Cunningham, 

vice-president; Roy W. Reeg, recording 

secretary; Everett C. Gahm. financial 

secretary: Ofa H. Osborne, corresponding secretary: 

C. P. Etzkorn, business agent; Reynard 

Osborne, sergeant at arms; Walter Cunningham, 

chairman of the executive board, 

and Ofa H. Osborne, delegates to the lATSE 

convention. 

Local B-133, special department, also elected 

new officers. They are George Tener, president; 

James Atkinson, vice-president; Prank 

Jordan, recording secretary: Paul Williams, 

financial secretary; Woodrow Griffith, business 

agent: Eugene Shope. sergeant at arms; 

Clara L. DeLong, chairman of the executive 

board, and Paul Williams, delegate to the 

lA convention. 

Teen Stage Show Given 

By Park at Meadville. Pa. 

MEADVILLE. PA.—"Teen Time." a stage 

and radio show presenting teen-agers from 

Crawford county, is a regular Wednesday 

night feature at the Park and is broadcast 

over WMGW. The radio station is owned by 

Dr. Harry C. Winslow, who heads the Meadville 

Park Theatre Corp. Six Crawford county 

communities w'ere represented by young people 

at the program's debut. Two Meadville 

students have regular roles on the program. 

They are Bill Davis, announcer, and P. E. 

Kirkpatrick jr., master of ceremonies. Lee 

M. Conrad, Park manager, and Mark Funk. 

WMGW's production manager, assist in 

staging the Wednesday evening programs. 

lames Lykens Promoted 

PORTSMOUTH. OHIO—James Lykens has 

been promoted to assistant manager of Warners' 

Columbia here, succeeding Aubrey G. 

Trent, who resigned to accept a position with 

a shoe-making firm. 

NEO-SEAL BURIAL WIRE 

For Drive-ln Theatres f"-"'-' 

— " 

10-2 - 12-2 - 14-2 Immediate Oe

Cleveland Five Wins First Match 

From Detroit in Intercity Tilt 

DETROIT—Cleveland lATSE Local 160 

bowling league made a good start Tuesday 

last week on taking back the trophy which 

was won for the first time last year by De- 

(sub) and P. Scheuer (sub). 

The 160 bowlers were Tom Fitzgerald, F. 

Lane, G. Bullock, C. Kramer, A. Zill, T. 

Smart, P. Gibbons. J. Barry, P. Collin, B. 

Nobbe, J. Sobota, E. Gehringer sr. (sub) and 

R. Gerts (sub). 

National Carbon Co. leads in the Nightingale 

Bowling league. Team standings: 

Nafl 

Won Lost 

Won Lost 

Carbon. 54 34 NaHonal Supply 41 47 

Ernie Forbes 51 37 McArthur Equip. 41 47 

Lorenzen's 46 42 Altec Service 40 48 

Brenkert 42 4G Local 199 37 51 

200 games were rolled by Roy Thompson 

HARRY L. WAX MANN—President, 

Hacco Theatres Company, 

Atlantic City, N. J.—says: 

"RCA Service is a must—it 

has meant 10 years' continuous 

cu.stomer satisfaction." 




Camden, N. J. 

201, 205, 601: Donald Lewis 219; John Crissman 

210, WiUiam Fouchey 204, Jack Lindenthal 

201 and Percy Huebner 209. 

Harold Welch almost won back his high 

three-game with his 524, which fell short by 

four pins, so Ray Gagnon retained the high 

three in his division. Don Lewis took high 

troit's Nightingale club. 

The first block of five games in the second 

annual intercity contest, rolled at the Elks 

temple, was won by the 160 league by a margin 

of 467 pins. After the match games were there are six more weeks to go so Robert 

single game away from Robert Andrews but 

over the 160 bowlers and their wives and still has a chance. 

guests were dinner guests of the Nightinggales. 

An honored guest was William Kunzmann 

of National Carbon Co., who came from the week's standings. Fred Borgman made 

CINCINNATI—There were no changes in 

Cleveland to see the match games. 

the honor roll with a 187, 208, 211—606 total. 

The 160 women were entertained at a Henry Wieman shot a high single game of 

luncheon before the games by the Nightingale 

wives, headed by Mi's. Akins, Mrs. Dou- 

Other highs: H. Wieman 246, C. Kuertz 228, 

246. C. Kuertz's 228 was his highest to date. 

ville and Mrs. Yellich. 

F. Borgman 211 and 208, W. Strome 204, R. 

Prizes for the first block of five games Piccola 201. 

were donated by sponsors, RCA-Brenkert, Team Won Lost Team Won Lost 

National Theatre Supply, McArthur Midwest 75 5 Altec 44 31 

Theatre 

National 62 13 RCA Service 41 34 

Equipment Co., Ernie Forbes Theatre Supply Bond Theatre 49 26 Theatre Candy. 30 45 

and Robert Seeley and Fred Dickley of Altec 

Strand ...- 46 29 Times Theatre 25 50 

Mount Healthy 45 30 Associated 23 52 

Service Sorp. The .second block of five games 

will be rolled in Cleveland March 21 at the 

Alhambra recreation hall. 

The Nightingale bowlers were Floyd H. 

Akins, Roy Thompson, J. Lindenthal, P. Light, 

W. Fouchey, G. Light, J. Colwell, M. Haskin, 

M. Beers, C. Larsen, W. Haartge, J, Yellich 

DETROIT—Cooperative Theatres has 

moved to first place in the Film Bowling 

league by breaking its tie with Allied with 

a two-game lead. Team standings: 


Cooperative 22 10 Republic 16 16 

Allied 20 12 S5G Premiums 13 19 

Theatrical 17 15 Monogram 13 19 

RKO 17 15 United Artists 10 22 

E. Beck With 223, W. Goryl 203 and E. Sullivan 

202 are current members of the 200 club. 

Star at Russell Springs 

Opened by A. V. Luttrell 

RUSSELL SPRINGS, KY.—The new Star 

Tlieatre here has been opened by owner A. V. 

Luttrell in a new brick building on Main 

street. The house seats 510 persons. The 

Luttrells also own the Strand Theatre here, 

which will continue operation with the same 

policy. Included in equipment are Motiograph 

sound and projectors. Strong lamps 

and rectifiers and Ideal chairs. 

Ashton Theatre for Sale 

ASHTON, ILL.—The partially completed 

theatre on Main street here has been put up 

for sale. Foundation, walls and floor were 

constructed iii the summer of 1947, but the 

theatre building, slated to be of quonset-type 

construction, was not completed. 

Stanley Cady Nominated 

KALAMAZOO, MICH.—Stanley W. Cady, 

manager of the Capitol Theatre, has been 

nominated, without opposition, as exalted 

ruler of the Elks lodge here. Nominations 

are tantamount to election. 

Emery C. Castle Dies 

SALEM, OHIO—Emery C. Castle, 70, custodian 

at tlie State and Grand theatres here, 

died of a heart ailment. He is survived by 

his wife Adella. 

Showmen's Wives Elect 

Officers to 2nd Term 

CLEVELAND—Mrs. Nat Barach was reelected 

for a second term as president of the 

League of Showmen's Wives at its third annual 

meeting held in the Variety Club. Also 

re-elected were, first vice-president, Mrs. 

Sanford Leavitt; second vice-president, Mrs. 

Tony Stern, and corresponding secretary, 

Mrs. Dave Kaufman. Mrs. Leonard Greenberger, 

former recording secretary, was 

elected treasurer and is succeeded by Mrs. 

Al Sunshine. 

Although the League of Showmen's Wives 

has been in existence only two years and has 

only 91 members, all wives or sisters of Variety 

Club members, ten institutions benefited 

from its charity activities. 

They include: Marine hospital, combination 

radio-phonograph: True Sisters, piano 

and piano bench; Rainbow hospital, combination 

radio-phonograph; Rosemary Home 

for Crippled Children, special type wheel 

chair; Society for Crippled Children, special 

type wheel chair; Mount Sinai hospital, 

therapy lamp; March of Dimes, $200; Heart 

fund, $50; Cancer fund, $50, and a party for 

underprivileged children. 

The money was raised by selling greeting 

cards, staging an amateur show, selling a TV 

set and holding a rummage sale. Mrs. Barach 

was given a handbag at the meeting. 

WEST VIRGINIA 

"Phe Lee at Fairmont billed Eagle Lion's "The 

Sundowners" as a tristate premiere . . . 

Madge Stout of the Robinson Grand and 

Moore's Opera House at Clarksburg recently 

advertised Slam Boyle in "This Was a 

Woman" at the latter house. Slam Boyle is 

the 20th-Fox booker at Pittsburgh. Regardless 

of the picture title. Slam says he wants 

first billing, not second, which he received 

on "This Was a Woman" ... A number of 

West Virginia drive-in theatres are booked 

to open March 31, depending on the weather. 

War Films Get Big Plugs 

At Portsmouth Theatre 

PORTSMOUTH, OHIO—George Frazer exploited 

"Sands of Iwo Jima" at the Columbia 

with marine corps A-board tieup and two 

full department store windows built up with 

marine-loaned equipment and accessories and 

life-size marine cutouts. During the run of 

the picture he camouflaged his boxoffice 

with sand bags. 

For "Battleground," Frazer got the personal 

endorsement of a prominent local attorney 

who participated in the Battle of the Bulge. 

In addition, Kresge's imprinted paper bags 

of nuts with the famous "Nuts" legend and 

gave them away filled with nuts. Picture 

went over very big, Frazer reports. 

Daylight Time to Start 

PITTSBURGH—The area will. go on eastern 

daylight saving time April 23 and will return 

to eastern standard time September 24. 



Do it today. 


. . 

, 

. . Dean 

LOUISVILLE 

rjrive-ins in the area are beginning to come 

out of hibernation from the winter 

months and openings are being planned. The 

latest openings in the Falls cities area are 

the Dixie on Dixie highway at Shively, which 

opened for its fourth season, and the Ea.^t 

on Shelbyville road near St. Matthews, which 

opened for its tenth season. Both are under 

the direction of Floyd Morrow, a drive-in 

pioneer in the area. The initial programs for 

the season at both projects were double bills. 

Directors of the Kentucky Ass'n of Theatre 

Owners met at Harrod's restaurant in Frankfort 

to discuss the current tax situation in 

Kentucky relative to the theatre industry. 

The meeting also was open for other members 

... In a recent Katogram. the Kentucky 

Ass'n of Theatre Owners voiced its disapproval 

of the 30 per cent selective sales tax 

now assessed against theatres in the state. 

While they are not particularly opposed to 

some form of taxation, they want to make 

certain the motion picture business is treated 

on a par with other types of business. 

Two French films were scheduled to be 

shown free in the Playhouse at Belknap campus 

here. They were "Rien Que les Heures" 

and "La Chute de la Maison Usher" . 

Harold Lloyd, silent screen comedian, will 

be here for the national convention of the 

Shrine Directors Ass'n March 20-23. Lloyd 

is scheduled to speak at initiation ceremonies 

at the Jefferson County armory. 

The senate rules committee is said to have 

reported favorably on first reading of a bill 

to provide for censorship of all films shown 

in Kentucky. A second bill also was given 

first reading to establish a division of film 

censorship in the department of business 

regulations. Both bills were introduced by 

Senator H. Stanley Blake, Carlisle Democrat 

. . . Included in bills signed by the governor 

recently was one to require places of amusement 

to make reports to the state revenue department 

on the last day of each month in. 

stead of on the tenth. 


Brown took over for a second Louisville week 

"Mother Didn't Tell Me" and "Radar Secret 

Service." which played the previous week nt 

the Rialto, 

Tax Payments Stopped 

For Ruling on Legality 

DAYTON—Dayton has sto|)pi'd accepting 

payment on the city's 3 per cent admi.ssions 

tax "until there is an official ruling on its 

validity," according to Finance Director Earl 

Hagerman. This followed a recent state supreme 

court ruling that the one-half of 1 per 

cent city income tax at Dayton was invalid, 

because it had not been approved by voters, 

as required in the city charter. 

Dayton Law Director Herbert Beane said 

he thought the admi.ssions tax wa.s "in the 

same boat" as the city income tax. Tlie city 

income tax in six other Ohio cities was declared 

legal by the state supreme court, since 

tlieir charters did not require voters' approval 

of such a tax. Dayton pas.sed an admi.ssions 

tax in 1947 after the state vacated 

Uie amusement tax field. Most other Ohio 

cities did likewise. It is believed a ruling on 

the admissions tax will be made .soon. 

TOLEDO 

Tra Brock pinchhit for Ruth Elgutter, theatre 

editor of the Times, while Ruth vacationed 

in New York, taking a critic's holiday by seeing 

eiglu plays and three foreign films in a 

.seven-day stretch . . . "Samson and Delilah" 

at the Princess broke all house records for 

a week's business, Saturday and Sunday of 

its first week broke all weekend records in 

the theatre. The film topped the business 

done by "The Paleface" and "Sorrowful 

Jones," which held the previous records, because 

of an early 10 a. m. opening each day 

which permitted an extra performance, says 

Giles Robb, manager. 

Variety Club Tent 30 celebrated St. Patrick's 

day with a party at 9 p. m., March 17, 

with Ed Bush, manager of the State, and his 

wife as hosts. Feature of the program was 

the sale of box lunches, with prizes for the 

best decorated boxes. Frankie Carle was 

guest of honor. 

A charter has been granted to the Cumberland 

Amusement Co., Cumberland, Ky Loew's Valentine and E.squire, in a move to 

$100,000. Incorporators are listed as Alfred call attention to the 20 per cent federal tax, 

v. Samuel, T. and J. E. Isaacs sr. and jr., and have cashiers wearing little caps with signs 

others . . . E.xhibitors on the Row included reading, "Tax Collector" . . . Henry Henderson 

A. N. Miles. Eminence, Eminence; Denzil 

is new manager of the Belmont at Youngstown. 

Herberschoff, Shepherd, Shepherds ville ; Tex 

Richards, State, Crothersville, Ind.; Mrs. and 

Mr. E. L. Ornstein. Ornstein Theatres, Marengo; 

Oscar Hopper, Arista, Lebanon; Gene Michigan Center Theatre 

Lutes, Capitol. Frankfort; Eric Hammel, Opened by Tom Campbell 

Shelby and Burley. Shelbyville; J. T. Kennedy 

jr., Stanton, Stanton; George Peyton, 

MICHIGAN CENTER. MICH. — Tlic new 

Center Theatre here has been opened by owners 

and operators Thomas Campbell and his 

Griffith. LaGrange; Hugh Kessler, Pal, 

Palmyra; J. C. Smith, Bloom, PJoomfield. and 

brother-in-law Donald B. Stillman. The 350- 

Bob Enoch. State and Grand. Elizabethtown. 

seat hou.se measures 40x100 feet and is located 

at 315 Fifth street. 

The building has a white porcelain front, 

Double bills were very predominant In new 

programs opening in first runs here. Opening 

a plastic screen and a cry room. The theatre 

at the Rialto were "Dear Wife" and "Tarnished." 

while the Strand brought in "Bli:e 

will operate from 3 to 11 p. m. on Saturdays 

and Sundays and will present two shows a 

Grass of Kentucky" and "Bomba on Panther 

night week nights, starting at 7 p. m. 

Island." Loew's was scheduled to bring in 

"Ambush" and 'Challenge to Lassie." and the 

Scoop featured "Tunisian Victory" and Have you ordered your taxation trailer and 

"Desert 'Victory." The Mary Anderson with petition cards from Nation.il Screen Service? 

the only singleton featured "Borderline." Tlie Do it today. 

COLUMBUS 

•The city pay roll tax has been ruled constitutional 

by the Ohio supreme court in a 

decision on the Toledo income tax, similar 

to that of Columbus . , . Ray and Mary All' r 

Ki.ssel, Mansfield, have joined Hallmark Piductions. 

Wilmington, and are working tlu 

Oklahoma territory. Kissel is former manager 

Ohio premiere of 

of Mansfield's Ritz . . . 

"The Devil's Weed" and "G.I. Love" will be 

lield at the Mozart. Canton. March 24. Zone 

Manager Andy Anderson .set the date and 

said a Hollywood premiere is planned. 

Henry Wilcoxon will appear at a special 

Monday morning lecture date at Loew's 

Broad. Monday i20i during the showing of 

"Sam.son and Delilah." Hal Marshall. Cleveland 

Paramount exploiteer. was here ahead 

of the Wilcoxon date . 

Myers has 

been substituting for Samuel T. Wilson. Dispatch 

theatre editor, during the latter's twoweek 

leave ... P. J. Wood announced that 

a Columbus exhibitor, for health rea.sons. is 

moving to Florida and would like to dispose 

of his two theatres either by outright sale 

or lease. 

Gayety started its policy of .sensational pictures 

with "Secret-s of a Coed" and "City of 

Silent Men" . . . Sun.set Carson, western actor, 

was in town for four shows at Memorial hall 

for the benefit of Columbus Boys' club . . . 

Clyde Sells, former Loew's Broad service staff 

member and later an extra and stand-in in 

Hollywood, has a leading role in "Beyond the 

Horizon" to be presented April 14-22 by the 

Ohio State university theatre. 

Chris Lampros Purchases 

Interest in Drive-In 

SHARON. PA.— Chris Lampros, who recently 

returned from vacationing in California, 

has purcha-sed the interest of Peter 

Patti in the Hickory Drive-In on Route 62 

and now is the sole owner of the Open Air 

Amusement Co. He plans improvements ^t 

the Hickory. 

A veteran exhibitor at Farrell. he withdrew 

his partnership Interest in two theatres 

there last summer. Before departing 

with his wife for the California vacation. 

Chris announced that he had purchased a 

large property in Sharon's east side business 

district where he will erect a modern 1.200- 

seat theatre with several storerooms. Plans 

are being prepared for this project. 

Fremont Chain to Build 

On New Mansfield Site 

MANSFIELD. OHIO Fremont Drive-In 

Theatres. Inc.. has abandoned plans to build 

a 600-car drlve-m .south of here on Route 42. 

because of opposition from home owners In 

that area. 

William Mosser. secretary-treasurer of the 

Fremont firm, said the drive-in would be 

built instead on state Route 39. a short dLstance 

northwest of Mansfield. Construction 

will start soon. 

Star's Father Stricken 

COLUMBIA CITY. IND-Albcrt W. Jagger. 

71. father of Dean Jagger. film .sUr. 

died In Luckeye hospital. Wolf Lake. Ind. 

83


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each month. 

Independent Producers to Come Back' 

Or Go to Television, Asserts Kramer 

NEW YORK—Stanley Kramer, who releases 

through United Artists, says there must 

be independent producers if the industry is 

to have new ideas in pictures. He admits 

many independents are now having trouble 

financing pictures, but predicts they will 

"come back." If they don't, he says, they 

will turn to television. 

Independents, he says, have the double 

problem of finding story material that fits 

their theories of what will constitute a fine 

picture and then convincing the financiers 

there will be a profit. 

INDEPENDENTS GIVEN CREDIT 

For most of them no profit means no more 

pictures. For those who have built up a record 

of successes—no matter how brief—the 

financing becomes less difficult, because they 

have what he calls a "backlog of goodwill." 

Kramer gives independents credit for blazing 

new trails, for treating serious, . adult 

topics which have been taken up later by the 

big producing companies. He says they are 

responsible for some of the new trends toward 

serious themes- 

He has delivered four pictures to United 

Artists — "So This Is New York," "Champion." 

"Home of the Brave," and "The Men," 

which will be released soon. 

Speaking of "The Men," he said: "When I 

first told some of my associates that I was 

going to make a picture about paraplegics 

they told me I was crazy. Nobody could 

visualize a picture about men in wheel 

chairs." 

As the picture developed, he said, he became 

more and more convinced that there was 

sound drama, based on hope, in the adjustment 

of men to new conditions of life. 

"You just can't adopt a theory and go to 

work," he said. "The story must have entertainment 

values and struggle and achievement. 

When I previewed this picture in San 

Francisco I was certain it had great human 

appeal." 

SHOT FILM IN THREE WEEKS 

Stanley Kramer, president of Stanley 

Kramer Productions, left, and George 

Glass, vice-president, arrived in New York 

recently with a print of their forthcoming 

United Artists release, "The Men," a story 

of wounded war veterans which stars 

Marlon Brando and Teresa Wright. 

While in New York, Kramer and Glass 

were to hold confabs with UA executives 

over distribution and advertising and 

pubUcity campaigns. 

million he doesn't want to pay more than 

half as much as he does for a million dollar 

production, 

"That won't tempt me into a million dollar 

production," he commented. "My unit stays 

the same from one picture to another. We 

know how to work together. We build all our 

sets before we start rehearsals and then 

we rehearse the whole production. There is 

no lost motion." 

AKRON 

Kramer isn't exactly a rebel, but he admits 

thinking along new lines is a challenge which 

appeals to his gambling instinct. Now that 

he has finished "The Men" in slightly more •The Forum recently brought back stars of 

than three weeks of shooting and two weeks the silent films. The program included 

of rehearsal he has gone off on a new tangent. Valentino's "Son of the Sheik," as well as 

He is going to do "Cyrano De Bergerac," with a two-hour collection of scenes from historic 

the dialog in the original poetry. 

films . . . Loew's held a special Saturday 

"Many producers have wanted to make the morning Kiddy Show, with all seats at 25 

picture," he said, "but Sir Alexander Korda cents. The program, starting at 9:15, had 

had the rights. George Schaefer told me two Hopalong Cassidy films. 

we had some funds in England, so we used 

those to buy the property." 

He admits he is embarking on an experiment, 

but he defends it by saying: "You can't 

Blast at Bar Frightens 

guess audience tastes by judging from experience. 

That's what the big producers do, 

Showgoers Next Door 

DETROIT—A dynamite bomb recently 

and they suddenly discover that audiences 

blasted the Circle bar here and shook the 

know they are seeing the same old thing. 

large Circle 

There 

Theatre next door in suburban 

are no experts on audience tastes, because 

tastes shift rapidly. You have to convince 

yourself that you have entertainment Panic in the theatre was prevented by Man- 

Dearborn. No one was injured seriously. 

values and then turn out the best picture ager Vincent Pope, who assured 'the crowd 

you know how to make" 

of 1,000 there was no danger. He grabbed 

Turning to the subject of economy, Kramer a loudspeaker when patrons began a rush 

pointed out that it's something that can't toward the exits. Giles Hoglin, 18, head usher 

be talked about, because if an exhibitor discovers 

a picture has been made for half a impression that the "roof was falling 

at the theatre, said the explosion gave the 

in." 


TJ^tl^ 

Hubert W. Glidden 

Robert M. Sternburg 

BOSTON—Robert M. Sternburg of Brookline 

has been named secretary and member 

of the board of directors of New England 

Theatres, Inc., and Hubert W. Glidden has 

been named treasurer. Martin J. MuUin is 

president of the corporation. 

Sternburg, with the company for several 

years, has been Boston district manager. 

Well-known for his activities as a leader in 

charitable and civic affairs, he is chairman 

of the forthcoming Jewish Memorial Hospital 

Celebrity night and recently headed the successful 

campaign of the Chest X-ray drive 

for the motion picture industry. He was 

chairman of the Golden Jubilee testimonial 

luncheon for Al Somerby held at the Hotel 

Bradford in January when more than 500 

attended. 

Glidden has been a member of the board 

of directors of New England Theatres for 

many years, serving as secretary. His appointment 

as treasurer was made to replace Marion 

Coles, who died in February. 

Robert Manson to Manage 

Revere, Mass., Drive-In 

BOSTON—Robert Manson, former assistant 

at Loew's State Theatre here, has been 

appointed manager of the Revere Drive-In at 

Revere, Mass., according to Michael Redstone, 

head of the circuit. Tom Yonkers will continue 

as manager of the Dedham Drive-In 

near Dedham, Mass. Both open air theatres 

will be opened early in April. Construction 

of the Neponset Bridge Drive-In now^ is in 

progress, and it is expected to be ready for 

opening early in the summer. A manager 

for the new drive-in will be named later, according 

to Redstone. 

$150,000 Fire Damages 

Park at South Berwick 

SOMERSWORTH, N. H.—A fire, said to 

have started in the restrooms of the Park 

Theatre, destroyed the interior of the Masonic 

building in nearby South Berwick, Me., 

with a total lo.ss estimated at $150,000. 

The theatre was empty at the time of the 

blaze, but Manager DeUa Fifield and other 

occupants of apartments in the block were 

driven to the street. 

Heavy damage was caused by smoke and 

water in the theatre. 

Max Seltzer, 68, Dies 

HARTFORD—Max Seltzer, 68, 

doorman at 

the Warner Strand Theatre here for the last 

six years, died following a heart attack last 

week. 

BOXOFnCE March 18, 1950 

Allied Unit Calls Rally 

Of Drive-In Operators 

New 660-Seat Theatre 

Provides Parking Lot 

NIANTIC, CONN.—The new 660-.seat Niantic 

Theatre here, erected by the Niantic Theatre 

Corp., was opened March 8 with the 

showing of "All the Kings Men" to an invitational 

audience which included local civic 

and business officials, film world executives 

and other guests. Officers of the theatre 

firm include Alphonse Dubriel, Socrates Deligeorges 

and Samuel P. Corni.sh. who is manager 

of the house. 

Among the guests were Harry Moss, publisher 

of the Connecticut Circle; Earl Wright, 

Columbia; John Payne. Paramount; David 

Squire, 20th-Fox; Phil Gravitz, MGM. and 

Alex Schimel. U-I. A. Hadden. president of 

the New London National bank which soon 

will open a branch near the theatre, also wa.s 

a guest. 

Air conditioned and with a Cycloramic 

screen among its technical equipment, the 

theatre will run a single evening performance 

with three changes weekly. A 300-car 

parking lot adjoins the theatre. A 76-cent 

top is charged for balcony seats. 

Ask Rivoli Case Briefs 

NEW HAVEN—Following the recent hearing 

of the Rivoli, Hartford, arbitration case 

liere. the parties have been asked to file 

briefs on or before March 27. With the Connecticut 

arbitration office now closed, the 

matter probably will be concluded in New 

York. 

\1 

. 

l\\(illM\in'lM\i — Stage crrcni(ini

. 

. 

. . . Ken 

. . James 

BOSTON 

n reshuffling of managers in the New England 

Theatres circuit has placed Doc Ro- 

. . . 

mano at the Codman Square from the Fields 

Corner, with Edward Spellman at the Fields 

Corner from the Paramount, Newton. Louis 

Kenney is at the Paramount, Newton, transferring 

ATC's 

from the Fields Corner Elite at Dorchester, formerly the Liberty, has 

closed temporarily for lack of business. Manager 

Sam Feldman is now doing relief work 

throughout the circuit. 

From Affiliated Theatres comes word that 

the Rutland Drive-In, Rutland, Vt., operated 

by Norman Grimshaw and Edwin Morgan, 

will start its third year in April and 

will buy and book through the Boston agency. 

Previously, film for the drive-in had been 

obtained through the Albany exchanges . 

Visitors to Affiliated included Fred Astle of 

the Village, Whitefield, N. H., who recently 

took over the Villa lease from George Gould. 

Astle also operates a hardware store in 

Whitefield ... Joe Mathieu, circuit owner, 

dropped in on his return from a Florida vacation 

. . . Charles Kelley, owner of the 

Charkarohen, Lincoln, N. H., was another 

visitor. 

The Theatrical Bowling league plans a dinner 

and a night baseball game at Braves 

field April 26, celebrating the end of a sue- 

BANKNIGHT 

ran drmve-mn theatres 

la-^-iiJiiM*****-*-**-^* 

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. 

cessful season of the interexchange bowling 

tournaments. The final match is set for 

From Westerly, R. I., comes 

April 25 . . . 

word of the construction of a new 500-car 

drive-in on Route I by John Sposato of 

Westerly. 

A permit to build a 500-car drive-in has 

been granted the Wallace Brothers, who will 

start construction immediately on the new 

ozoner on Montgomery street in Chicopee, 

Mass. . 

Sayer, who operates two 

drive-ins in New Hampshire, the Manchester, 

Pine Island Drive-In, and another in Somerworth, 

is building a new ozoner in Berlin, 

N. H. Construction will start as soon as the 

frost leaves the ground. 

E. J. Neumann, district manager for Interstate's 

Connecticut houses, says fom- of his 

theatres are running a series of Talent Discovery 

nights, offering cash prizes and local 

merchandise to winners. The theatres are 

the strand, Southbridge; the Bradley, Putnam; 

the Orpheum, Danvers, and the Palace, 

Rockville. The contests have been received 

favorably and the managers' reports 

show a sizeable increase in attendance. The 

winners are forming a unit to be put on as 

special stage attraction throughout the Interstate 

circuit. 

Edward Bradley, Paramount Maine salesman, 

is in the hospital for a routine checkup 

Mayer, New Hampshire and Vermont 

salesman for U-I, has resigned. No 

replacement has been announced. His territory 

will be split up among the staff for the 

time being . . . Stephen McConley, who recently 

was appointed manager at the Beacon 

Hill here, under managing director George 

Kraska, has been transferred to the Gem, 

Fitchburg, where he will be manager under 

Frank Boyle, city manager for the Saxon circuit's 

three Fitchburg houses. 

Visitors were Curtis Morse, manager of Bill 

Lavery's Lafayette. Haverhill; Orville Smith, 

Island, Portsmouth, R. I.; Irving Conn, manager. 

Strand, Portland, Me., for the Snider 

circuit, whose brother Prank is operating the 

Art at New Bedford; Robert Wheeler, Riverside, 

Richmond, Me.; Bernard Feldman and 

his son Sam, Capitol, Winchendon; Eddie 

Sokolowski, Park, Nashua, N. H., and Capitol, 

Lowell, and Armand Bourque, Skyray Drive- 

In, Hookset, N. H. 

The two daughters of Irving Shiffman, 

Eagle Lion salesman, will be married within 

a month of each other. Both plan large hotel 

receptions. Mary Frances will be married to 

John F. Sweeney at the Mission church, Roxbury, 

April 15 with a reception at the Hotel 

Gardner. On May 14, Ruth Sylvia will exchange 

marriage vows with William Rydell, 

a recent Harvard graduate, at the same 

church with a reception at the Hotel Fensgate. 

^^^^M****MM*-¥--¥-M 

GOODWILL ADVERTISING CO. 

22 CHURCH STREET BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 

Tel. Liberty 2-9305 

E. Harold Stoneman, president of Interstate 

Theatres, flew up from the Hollywood 

Beach hotel in Florida for a business meeting 

and flew back the next day . . . Ernest W. 

Links" manager of Interstate's Center Theatre, 

Hyannis, has resigned and will announce 

future plans soon. John Garcin is serving as 

temporary manager . . . Paul Hachey, man- 

DRIVE-IN 

THEATRE 

New 40" Double Face Entrance or Exit Liulit 

Also available in single face 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE MFG. CO. «S.S:it" 


. . The 

. . 

ager of Interstate's Old Colony, Plymouth is 

father of a baby daughter and Jack OLuary, 

manager of the circuit's Colonial. Bjockton, 

has a baby son. 

After spending a week in the Connecticut 

area. "Red" Pierce. New England sales representative 

for Altec Service, left for New 

York and the three-day convention of the 

Institute of Radio Engmeers . . . Jerry Thayer, 

operator of Leddys Theatre. Raymond. N. H.. 

was re-elected chairman of the board of selectmen 

of Epping. N. H. He also is station 

master for Boston & Maine railroad in Fremont, 

N. H. 

Silas Bunce of Quality Premium Distributors 

is in the Bay State hospital suffering 

from a virus infection . . . Al Margolian. press 

agent at the Astor. flew to Chicago with his 

wife for the funeral of his mother-in-law . 

James "Red" King. RKO Theatres publicist, 

returned to his desk after recuperating from 

an operation at Brooks hospital . . . Ralph 

Banghart, RKO publicist, is covering "Cinderella" 

openings in Hartford and New Haven. 

Two exliibitors, Paul Longo, Meadow Glen 

Drive-In, Medford, and Jack Champlain. 

Playhouse. Randolph. Vt.. and Bethel. Bethel. 

Vt.. have applied for membership in Independent 

Exhibitors of New England. Applications 

will be voted upon at the next monthly 

meeting . 15-year-old son of John 

Sherwin. Colonial. Bristol. Vt.. is confined to 

his bed with rheumatic fever . . . The owners 

of the Princess. Wakefield. Mass.. have 

decided to close the theatre temporarily for 

lack of business. The Princess, second theatre 

in the town, has been the class house 

of the circuit, but the action hou.se. the Wakefield, 

will remain open. 

Scripts Tour Chaplains' 

Seymour Gomber is scripting "Four Chaplains" 

from the Daniel Poling original. "Your 

Daddy Did Not Die." for Warner release. 



Week's Pass Relieves 

12-Year-Old Problem 

Boston — Louis Gonick, Embassy Pictures 

salesman, introduced at the Yarmouth 

(Me.) Theatre, a method of handling 

the 12th birthday admission price 

problem which has worked successfully In 

other parts of the country. Gonick and 

owner Marshall Carlton devised a registration 

method for the young patrons entering 

their teens. 

When a child reaches 12. and no longer 

m entitled to the children's price, he It 

mvited to register his name and address 

at the boxoffice and receive a card entitling 

him to a free admission for one 

full week. After that, until he Is 16. the 

teen-ager is given free admission on his 

birthday. 

Carlton reports relations with the teenagers 

have been improved and the plan 

has received the full approval and cooperation 

of the parents. 

Gonick believes the plan is particularly 

suited to towns. He invited interested 

exhibitors to write him at Embassy Pictures, 

Boston, for further information on 

the plan. 

Lockwood 6r Gordon to Run 

New Torrington Drive-In 

TORRINGTON. CONN.- Tlie 

Lockwood & 

Gordon circuit has signed a lease with Theodore 

Zoli for operation of the drive-in now 

being constructed on the Torringlon-Winsted 

road. The circuit will finish construction 

of the drive-in as soon as Zoli completes 

grading. 

The ozoner will be the second drive-in to 

be operated by Lockwood & Gordon. The 

other is at Danbury. Construction has been 

started on a third drive-in at Norwalk. According 

to Lou Gordon, circuit executive, the 

Torringlon-Winsted drive-in will be unusually 

attractive because of its natural background. 

The theatre will accommodate 600 cars and 

will be opened about May 1. 

Plans for erection by Lockwood & Gordon 

at a site in East Hartford have been abandoned 

following denial by the zoning commission 

of a petition for a change from residential 

to business in the area. Approximately 

150 persons attended a public hearing on 

the proposed zoning change. A petition signed 

by nearly 400 others protesting the change 

was filed with the board. 

PROVIDENCE 

JWIaurice Druker, manager of Loew's State, 

escaped three weeks of the worst weather 

of the winter when he and his wife sojourned 

in Miami and Havana. He missed 18 days of 

snow, sleet, ice storms and bitter cold, the 

worst in several years. 

High winds of near-hurricane velocity recently 

toppled a 54-foot cement block screen 

at the Bellingham Drive-In. just over the 

Woonsocket city line. The screen carried 

down all the telephone wires on the .south 

side of the highway, putting hundreds of 

phones out of service. Repairs will be made 

in time for the open airer to operate on 

.schedule this spring. 

Rhode Island television fans and a good 

many from nearby Ma.ssachusetts and Connecticut 

jammed telephone lines recently 

when WJAR-TV went off the air for an entire 

evening. A power failure caused by fallnected 

here for so many years." 

Manager Larry Gardiner, who has been con- 

Taylor was introduced to local workers by 

Bob Folliard. eastern manager, who arrived 

with him. His wife and two children, a .son 

ing wires during a wind storm put the transmitter 

out of commission shortly after 6 p. m. 

Tlie station received over 1.000 telephone calls 

and local phone exchanges were jammed. 

The East Providence exchange, alone, reported 

the heaviest traffic in it,s long history, 

for a four-hour period. Even after the fallen 

wires were replaced, engineers found that it 

was impossible to resume transmission. The 

.source of the failure had not been located 

early in the week and the station still was 

operating under emergency conditions and 

reduced power. 

Lippert Reports Revival 

In Bookings of 'Thunder' 

From Ml i- : :: i.' 

DETROIT—Lippert Productions rcporU a 

revival of bookings in the area for "Thunder 

in the Pines," as the result of the success 

of Denise Darcel. who recently made a per- 

.sonal appearance here in connection with 

"Battleground," which has completed a fiveweek 

stand at the Adams. 

William Flemion. Lippert manager, says tHe 

film, released in 1948, was the original vehicle 

which brought the star to attention. 

Hatlon Taylor Named 

Boston RKO Manager 

HAiroN V. TAYl.OK 

BOSTON Hatlon F. Taylor, newly appointed 

branch manager for RKO here, has 

been with that company since hi.s graduation 

from college. A native of Toronto, he 

attended St. Michael's college and the University 

of Toronto, graduating from the latter 

in 1928. He joined the RKO exchange 

in that city in December 1930 as a clerk and 

a year later was sent on the road as a salesman. 

In 1938 he was transferred to Calgary. 

Canada, as exchange manager. He stayed 

there two years, before moving to the Montreal 

exchange where he remained six years. 

In 1946 he was given the Detroit exchange to 

manage. He has visited Boston briefly once 

or twice and Is filled with enthusiasm about 

his new post. 

"I don't know this territory as yet. but I'm 

fortunate to be surrounded by the efficient 

.staff in the Boston office, especially Sales 

Timothy. 10. and a daughter. Diana. 9. are in 

Detroit but will move here when .school close.s, 

Taylor replaces the late Ross C. Cropper. 

Property Owners to Fight 

Drive-In at Southington 

SOUTHINGTON. CONN. 

A ;n>up of property 

owners here recently di.scloscd plans to 

appeal to superior court the granting of .slate 

police approval to James A. Holmes to construct 

a drlve-ln there. Petitions appealing 

a decision by Edward J. Hickey. sUtc police 

comml-ssioner. granting pcrml.ssion to Holmes 

to build the drive-ln were to be filed by Joseph 

H. Tlialberg. local attorney representing 

the various properly owners. 

''c^^T^V^ 

ftV"'' \ NHV »ORK OFiFICC I 

m BBo«o\*Ar f 

Edwirtf Shvaan 


87

. . Hartford 

. . Harry 

. . Phil 

. . The 

HARTFORD 

lîke Piccirillo, Center Theatre manager, 

and his wife are the parents of a son 

born last week at Hartford hospital. The 

baby has been named Mike jr. Mrs. Piccirillo 

the former Anita Soloshun, former cashier 

is 

at the Center . . . Bill Healey. Loew's Poh 

house officer, returned from a vacation in 

Jim Hughes, Loew's Poll chief of 

Florida . . . 

service, and his wife observed their 35th wedding 

anniversary . . . Charlie White, former 

stage manager at the Colonial and more recently 

at the Astor in East Hartford, now is 

on the stage crew at the Bushnell Memorial. 

Olive Simms, Loew's Poll cashier, was a 


L K ! 


"SPOTTY" 




"BLOTTY" 


11 

SPOT 


PLAY 

II 

TAG 




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For Space in the 

April 1st Deadline 

(No Fooling) 

. . theatremen, 

Al Schuman, Gus 

Springfield visitor . . . 

Schaefer and Ernie Grecula of the Hartford 

Theatre circuit were in New Haven on circuit 

business . F. Shaw, division manager 

for Loew's Poli-New England Theatres, was 

here to confer with Fi-ed Greenway, Loew's 

Poll Palace manager, and Lou Cohen, Loew's 

Poll manager 

Charlie Obert 

. 

of 

Three 

the 

local 

Allyn, Lew Mello of 

Loew's Poli, and Rube Lewis of Loew's Poll 

Palace, went fishing off Niantic last week in 

Obert's boat. 

Jack Carson, film comedian, was in town 

. . Brookie Le'Witt of Glackin and Le"Witt 

theatres launched a new glassware giveaway 

at the Arch Street in New Britain . . . Joe 

Spivack of Connecticut Theatre Candy Co. 

and Eddie Kelleher, assistant manager at the 

Princess, were planning to take in some of the 

early major league baseball games in New 

York visitors included Lou Gordon, 

Lockwood-Gordon-Rosen Theatres; Sam 

. 

Rosen, Rosen's Film Delivery, John Pavone, 

Monogram . 

Gravitz, MGM; Ray 

Wylie, UA; Arthur Lockwood, Lockwood- 

Gordon-Rosen Theatres, and Phil Loew, Theatre 

Candy Co. 

Estelle O'Toole, Warner Theatres, received 

an interesting photo from Los Angeles recently. 

The photo showed Frank Ramsey, 

former local Warner executive and now a 

Fox West Coast circuit manager in Los Angeles, 

at a FWC district managers meeting 

there . . George E. Landers, division manager 

for the E. M. Loew circuit, was in West 

. 

Springfield, Springfield, Holyoke, North 

Adams, Williamstown and Worcester on a 

routine tour of theatre installations. Construction 

of the circuit's 800-car drive-in at 

West Springfield is proceeding steadily, according 

to Landers. 

Mike Masselli, chief projectionist at the 

Webb Playhouse in Wethersfield, will be married 

in June to Miss Lee Totedo, Hartford 

vocalist . . . Tom Carey of Carey Theatrical 

Promotions, returned from a Cuban vacation 

BOSTON MOVING PICTURE OPERATORS 

LOCAL No. 182 

40th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION 

RUBY JUBILEE JOURNAL 

A Beautiful Souvenir Book Published Once in a Decade ond 

Retained Forever, 

Circulation: 1600 — Distribution: National, 

BALL — BANQUET AND STAGE SHOW 

COPLEY PLAZA HOTEL — BOSTON 

April 24th 8 P. M. to 3 A. M. 

For Space in Journal or Tickets — Contact 

WALTER F. DIEHL 

45 Winchester St. (HA 6-1540) 

Boston 

and left for Greenfield, Mass. Carey booked 

a kiddy show into the Poli at Bridgeport for 

March 18 . . . Donald Tascherau and Joseph 

Desharnais are new service staff aides at 

E. M. Loew's. 

Mrs. Mary Paparella of the Webb Playhouse 

maintenance staff became a grandmother 

for the first time when her daughter 

gave birth to a baby girl . . . The Community 

in Oakville launched a new dinnerware giveaway 

. Park in Thomaston has a new 

Mel Torme, radio 

glassware giveaway . . . 

and screen singer, was in town . . . Doug 

Amos of Lockwood-Gordon-Rosen Theatres 

reported plans were under way to resume 

Tuesday and Wednesday showings of foreign 

films at the Webb Playhouse for an indefinite 

period . . . The Crown has resumed its 

Tuesday night amateur shows, with Joe 

Giobbi, manager, promoting prizes from 

neighborhood merchants. 

Doris Graham is the new secretary to Joe 

Faith, head of the Faith Theatres . , . The 

Carberry, Bristol, had an extra attraction 

with radio station WBIS and Bristol merchants 

naming winners of a Trip to Florida 

Contest, conducted by the radio station and 

merchants. 

Columnist Tells Readers 

To 'Quit Knocking Films' 

SPRINGFIELD — In a special article 

headed, "Quit Knocking the Movies," Harley 

Rudkin, theatre editor of the Daily News, declared 

that "by and large, and considering 

the multiple tastes they have to cater to, the 

movies do all right." 

The Daily News drama man figured that he 

spends 12 hours weekly in darkened theatres, 

which adds up to 26 full days a year, and he 

posed the question of how much of this time 

is either wasted, or semi-wasted. He found 

that there was very little of it wasted. 

"Despite any high-powered talk about 'artistry,' 

or 'obligations to the people,' the motion 

picture industry has to show a profit," 

Rudkin declared. "The only possible way 

this can be done is by maintaining an adequate 

level of satisfaction.' 

"The credo of the motion picture industry 

has to be: 'Please as many people as possible, 

and offend as few as possible.' Cling to this 

and the matter of good taste will virtually 

take care of itself, because the average level 

of good taste is pretty high." 

Concluding, he said, "This writer is known 

as a hard man to please. In this, I believe 

I am average. I think the average filmgoer 

is a hard man to please. It is the job of the 

films to see that he is pleased, because that 

is the only way they are going to keep him 

coming. And keeping him coming is the only 

way they can keep him going. And they are 

doing it." 

SERVICING THEATRESdRllfE INS 

CANDY POP CORH- DRINKS 

COMPLETE CONCESSION SUPPLIES 

I" 107 Meadow St., New Haven, Coin, 'I 

DRIVE-IN THEATRE CENTER AISLE LIGHTS 



. . . Poll's 

. . Sam 

. . Ben 

. . Mildred 

. . Eva 

. . Lou 

. . 

. . 

— 

. 

Boston Critic 

Urges 

Tax Repeal Support 

BOSTON—Elinor Hughes. Boston Herald 

drama critic, made a direct appeal to the 

public for protests against the federal 20 per 

cent amusement tax, in a recent Sunday 

story. 

Emphasizing that the entertainment world 

had joined forces to put pressure on lawmakers 

for repeal of the tax. Miss Hughes 

added: "It needs more than their protests 

to accomplish this. It needs ours, yours and 

mine, the voices of everyone who is able to 

attend the theatre. When free entertainment 

for good causes is needed it is the artists who 

are expected to provide it and their record 

through two wars and two uneasy peaces has 

been splendid. 

"But their livelihood and our cultural 

pleasures are being unfairly jeopardized. The 

poor old goose that has laid so many golden 

eggs so many times deserves encouragement, 

not a knife at the throat. 

"If you care about your theatre, your films, 

your symphony orchestra and your opera, 

this is the time to come to their help. 

"It is high time." Miss Hughes wrote, "that 

the theatre, film industry, concert and opera 

fields should be relieved of the increasingly 

heavy burden of government taxation which College. 

they have been carrying since World War I. 

Thclma Jaffe Rubin and husband Doc became 

parents of Hyla Sue. born at New Ha- 

Of all the taxes imposed, then tor the ))urpose 

of raising special revenue under crucial 

ven hospital. Thelma formerly was secretary 

to Harry Rosenblatt. Metro manager . 

stress, only the amusement tax remained up 

to World War II. At that time, this same 

The Aich Street, New Britain, is giving away 

tax, already heavy enough, was doubled— 

glassware Mondays and Tuesdays. 

and might have been tripled had not the 

frantic theatre people screamed with sufficient 

vehemence to keep it down. 

in Yale Drama school's recent student-writ- 

New York producers are rumored interested 

"Increasing costs have forced up in a ten "Myrmidons" . Foti of the 20thsteady 

line the expense of operating theatres, Fox staff was surprised by other Foxites with 

or producing plays and films. The difficul- 

a birthday party . Phillips back at the 

equipment office, but still not recovered from 

pneumonia, burns and other ailments which 

piled up for an illness of several months. 

ties encountered by our major musical organizations 

and our one opera company are 

mounting with no relief in sight. Prior to 

1941, operas and symphony concerts were tax 

free as educational, nonprofit-making undertakings, 

but since then they have been carrying 

the same load as the frankly commercial 

theatres and films." 

Jane Cowl will play a top role in "The 

Story of a Divorce," an RKO film. 



BOWLING 

BOSTON—In the eighth week of the 

Theatrical Bowling league, the results show 

a three-way tie for first place among the 

Independents, UA-NE and RKO. The standings: 

Won Lost 

Won Lost 

NEW HAVEN 

Dumors about new drive-in construction 

with the 

buzzed wildly around the district 

advent of a few mild days. Five new ones 

are reported for the Walerbury area alone, 

but the saying is it takes ten rumors to get 

one drive-in. Permits for two are reported to 

have been issued in Stratford. 

The Bostwick In Bridgeport is showing 

Hungarian pictures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 

upping admissions from 35 to 55 cents 

Morris Rosenthal and Tony Massella 

worked hard on "Mother Didn't Tell Me" 

20th-Fox prize campaign, using big herald 

co-op, limerick contests, street ballyhoos, six 

and three-sheets, professional office contacts, 

"snowbirds," army sound truck, bumper 

strips, imprinted bags and napkins, matching 

herald contests, teaser strips, etc. 

. 

Quality Premium started a dinnerware deal 

at the Community. Oakville, on Tuesday and 

Wednesday . Simon. 20th-Fox manager, 

attended the Chicago showmanship 

meet . Hadelman of the Grand and 

Shelton was in New Haven hospital for a 

nose operation Goldberg of EL 

is wearing a sparkler presented by Leonard 

Stein, who will graduate shortly from Arnold 

INDIVIDUAL AVERAGES 

Pta. 

Pl». 

Jennings (Ind) 94 Hill (Ind) 

87 

Plunlcelt (UA-NE) 93 Arsonaull (UA-NE) 86 

Dobbyn (RKO) 92 SacknoK (Ind) 

Levin (RKO) 92 Fahlbusch (UA-NE) SS 

Rond (Afl) 90 Hochbcrg (AH) 

Farrington (Alf) 90 O'Hara (RKO) 

Rommoil (UA-NE) 89 Goldman (Afl) 

Burlone (UA-NE) 89 Field (Ail) 

Smith (RKO) 89 Colaiullo (AM) 

Saver (Ind) 88 Froser (Ind) 

Rothgeb (Ind) 88 Downing (RKO) 


Special kiddy shows are in evidence. Salem 

Playhouse, Naugatuck, ran a series, with proceeds 

from advance sale to the PTA fund. 

The program was chosen with the cooperation 

of local librarians . . . Hamden Music 

Parents club sponsored a theatre party at the 

Strand, with "Ambu.sh" and "Easy Living" 

and the Hamden High 35-piece orchestra . 

Register-Family Service fresh air fund benefit 

was staged at the Whaley March 8. 

Ansrlo Sette, manager of the Capitol, 

Springfield, arranged a terrific campaign on 

"Guilty of Treason," including interviews and 

press stories with Countess Klara Von Corba 

of Budapest, Hungary, friend of Cardinal 

Mindszenty ... A tea party for the countess 

resulted in complete and effective press and 

air coverage. 

'Samson' Shown to Jurors 

At Hermann Sander Trial 

MANCHESTER. N. H.—A Jury had an opportunity 

to pass judgment on the film. 

"Samson and Delilah." at a special preview 

at the State Theatre here. The audience wa^composed 

of Jurors at the Dr. Hermann Sander 

"mercy killing" case in superior court 

here. To help provide recreation for the 

closely guarded Jurors, the film was sent here 

from Boston and immediately returned after 

they viewed the picture. 

Man of Year Award Given 

To Albert Pickus by VFW 

STRATFORD. CONN. The VFW Achievement 

medal and certificate were given to Albert 

M. Pickus. cho.sen as Man of the Year 

by the Raymond T. Goldbach post here recently 

before an audience of some 400 per- 

.sons. Pickus, operator of the Stratford Tlieatre. 

was given the award by Commander 

Hugh A. Hoyt and David Kennedy, senior 

vice-commander. 

The speaker was Gael Sullivan, executive 

director of the TOA. 

The VFW officials spoke of Pickus" record 

of civic service, dating back before World 

War II, of his leadership in war bond drives, 

the Community Chest, the Jimmie fund, state 

cancer drive. Brotherhood week, of which he 

is state chairman. Red Cross, visiting nurse 

and March of Dimes drives. 

Sullivan spoke primarily of world conditions 

and said, "the one hopeful note lies in 

our personal and individual faith. Peace is 

an inside Job . . . inside you and Inside me, 

and to have it, we must crush out all bigotry 

and petty jealousies for the greater good." 

Prior to the VFW affair, more than 50 

industry reprs.sentatives and others feted 

Pickus at the Woodbndge Country club, where 

Irving Jacocks, operator of the Branford Theatre, 

was toastmaster, and Herman M. Levy, 

TOA counsel, was host. State officials and 

members of the judiciary attended in addition 

to Benjamin A. Simon. 20th-Fox manager: 

Raymond Wylie, UA: Henry Rosenblatt, 

MGM, and Henry Germain, Paramount. 

SPEER MAKOUSIS- Owner. 

Regent Theatre, New C'a.Hlle, I'm.— 

says: 

"I have had dependable 

RCA Sound Service since 

19'28. I feel I ciinnot afford 

to be without it." 

To get the b«'ni'fil.s of RCA Service 

write: KCA SKKVICK lOMl'ANY, 


Camden, N. J. 

HAncoch 6-3592 

ii liHiJliiJ'MI||J ,jm. 

ilia 

89

. . Joseph 

. . The 

. . The 

. . The 

. . Warren 

. . Howard 

. . 

Congratulations 

— 

, 

" 

B R I 

D G E P O R T 

albert Moreland has succeeded Joseph Cavaliere 

as assistant manager of the Warner ditorium theatre business in southward 

G. Trotter of the Klein Memorial Au- 

. 

Tlieatre. Cavaliere resigned to go into other western Connecticut continues off as compared 

with the Hartford area in the northeast 

business . . . 

Projectionist Myron Levy of the 

Black Rock and his wife, Ann, celebrated section of the state. Most managers blame 

their 20th wedding anniversary Albert television, saying reception here, so near New 

. . . 

Mazzadra is the new assistant manager at the York City, tops Hartford. 

Mayfair. He is a brother of WiUiam, manager 

of the Black Rock R. Piccolo 

has moved from assistant at the Rialto 

Joseph Czinch reports his Spanish films on 

. 

every third Thursday at the Liberty are 

to manager of the Colonial Sunday growing in popularity to 

. 

. 

Post carried a sketch on Ken Prickett, New Manager William Mazzadra of the Black Rock 

England publicity representative for Metro- on the engagement of his daughter Margie 

. . . Alice Fox, secretary to Manager Matt L. 

Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures. 

"Tight Little Island" gave the Black Rock 

five excellent days . . . Mrs. Ted R. Gamble, 

wife of the head of Gamble Enterprises, is 

convalescing in a hospital in Stamford from 

an operation . . . Manager John MoUoy is 

back at the Klein Memorial auditorium after 

a month's vacation in Florida. 

Louis H. Jacobson, manager of the Park City, 

and his wife, Minnie, are the parents of baby 

boy, David Allan. Morris D. Jacobson, general 

manager of the Strand Amusement company, 

is the proud grandfather . . . Pauline 

Nedak. relief cashier at the American, has 

completed a beauty course and is now a registered 

cosmetologist. 

Congratulations on birthdays go to William 

Finn of the Rialto, Thomas Murphy of 

the Lyric, Charles Gaudino of the Hippodrome, 

Madge Blake of Loew's Poll and Ed- 

r^mm^^mÊB^^B^ 

HtWACK _ 

0069 ""'J "--- ,, 


SPECIAL IRAIURS 

Lei us make you. n" 'f ' AlItY «orl 

c H I 

c A G iiT^rrim YORK 

1 327 S. Wobosh Av.T l " i l>H 

^NEW 

619 West 54lh St. 

Saunders of Loew's Poli, has been ill with a 

severe cold . . . While being cleaned a large 

ceiling candelabrum crashed into the loges 

at the Warner. The theatre was empty at 

the time . Ballet Russe de Monte Cairo 

is booked into the Klein Memorial for a onenight 

stand on March 24. 

Earl F. Hannah has succeeded the ailing 

George Bronson as manager of the Beverley 

Theatre. Mr. Hannah was formerly relief 

manager for the Perakos circuit, operators of 

the Beverley . 

Jacobson flew in 

from Los Angeles to visit his father, Michael 

E. Jacobson, manager of the Mayfair. 

LYNN 

nil theatres here and in Salem participated 

in the 1950 March of Dimes campaign by 

sponsoring audience collections. Substantial 

sums were turned over to the National Foundation 

for Infantile Paralysis by Henry J. 

Chapman, Plaza manager at Salem, and 

James Field and Gus Merrill of the Paramount 

there. 

Leo Barber, projectionist at the Warner 

here, and Harold Hunt, boothman at the 

Paramount in Salem, were on vacation in 

Florida Prescott, assistant manager 

at the Olympia here, has enlisted in the 

. 

air force . . . "Samson and Delilah" is being 

shown at the Olympia at a $1 top. 



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TOWN ; 

STATE 

NAME 

POSITION 

'Thief Grosses 160 

In 3rd Boston Week 

BOSTON—Holdovers kept grosses down to 

average with "The Bicycle Thief" easily the 

standout in its third week. Of the new product 

"Outside the Wall" at the Boston was a 

disappointment, while "Saints and Sinners" 

at the Exeter Street held a second week. 


Aslor—My FoolUh Heart (RKO), 5lh wk 90 

Beacon H.ll-The Bicycle Thief (M-B), 3rd wk 160 

Boston—Outside the Wall (U-I); Home in San 

Antone (Col) -- -- 

^^ 

Exeter Street—Saints and Sinners (London): 

Silent Dust (Mono) ^ - • '25 

Mavllower—Guilty of Treason (EL), 4th wk 9U 

Memorial-Cinderella (RKO), 3rd wk ...100 

. 

Metropolitan—Dear Wife (Para); Unmasked (Rep), 

and Fenway 

2nd wk 

Paramount 

\-,:« 

Samson and DelUon r,-^ 

(Para), 41h wk ^- ; ; 

Pilgrim—The Sundowners (EL), 2nd wk I" ----- «" 

(MGM). 

State and Orpheum—Key the City to 

2nd wk y^ 

Cold Wave Hurts Business 

At New Haven Theatres 

NEW HAVEN—A dualing of "Francis" and 

"Trapped" at the Roger Sherman chalked up 

an average week despite a cold wave which 

kept many theatregoers at home. 

Bijou— I stole a Million (U-I), reissue; Paris 

Bombshell (Realart) _ ----- '5 

College—Key to the City (MGM); Kazan (Col), 

2nd wk., 3 days -^- 

9° 

Loew Poli—Malaya (MGM): Tarnished (Rep), 

6 days , 

- ' 

Paramount—Thelma Jordon (Para); Blonde 

Dynamite (Mono) ^[^ 

Roger Sherman—Francis (U-I); Trapped (EL) 100 

'Man With Horn' Is Leader 

Of Trade in Hartford 

HARTFORD—"Mother Didn't Tell Me" and 

"Young Man With a Horn" led the downtown 

first 

runs. 

AUyn—Blue Grass of Kentucky (Mono); Massacre 

River (Mono) 

Center-My Life (SR) 

80 

^ 

E M Loew—Beau Geste (Para); Lives of a Bengal 

Lancer (Para), reissues. 2nd wk ..--90 

Palace—Black Magic (UA); South of Rio (Rep).- 75 

Poll—Mother Didn't Tell Me (20th-Fox); Silent 

Dust (Mono) - 110 

Regal—Francis (U-I); Western Pacific Agent 

(Lippert), 2nd wk -,- lO" 

Strand-Young Man With a Horn (WB); Cry 

Murder (FC) 

Filmrow at New Haven 

Bids Farewell to Goe 

NEW HAVEN—Carl Goe, who recently resigned 

as Warner exchange manager and 

quit the film business after 30 years of service, 

was feted at a farewell dinner at the 

Hotel Taft March 6 by Variety Club Tent 31. 

On the speakers' list were Rep. John Lodge, 

Sen. Oscar Peterson jr., Gael Sullivan, executive 

director of TOA, and Herman M. Levy, 

TOA attorney, who was emcee. Goe was 

given a pen and pencil set and luggage. He 

left New Haven March 8 for North Carolina. 

At the same time, Al Daytz, new Warner 

manager, was welcomed to the film colony. 

Among those attending the dinner were 

Tom Fermoyle, Henri Schwartzberg and Joe 

Saunders. American Theatres; Gus Schaefer 

of Boston; Al Schuman of Hartford Theatre 

Operating Co.; Ted Fleisher, Interstate, Boston; 

Neil Welty, Bill Brown, Bill "VXiono, Stamford; 

Ben Rosenberg, district manager for 

New England Theatres, Boston; Henry 

Needles, Warner Theatres, Hartford; Walter 

Higgins, Prudential, New York; Maurice and 

Joseph Shulman, Hartford; Bill Horan, Warners, 

Boston; Morris Jacobson, Strand Amusement, 

and I. H. Gogovin, Columbia, Boston. 

^^^ 

90 

BOXOFFICE 

:: March 18, 1950

" 

. . Arnold 

Blackface on Stage 

Sells 'Jolson Sings' 

EAST PROVIDENCE — Joseph G. Jarvis, 

manager of the Hollywood Theatre, boosted 

the opening of "Jolson Sings Again" at that 

house with black-faced ushers carrying "Jol- 

Ushers and personnel of the Hollywood 

Theatre are shown here in blackface 

costume to plug opening of "Jolson 

Sings Again." 

son Sings Again" signs and by adding liveinterest 

to the regular trailer on the picture. 

Jarvis hired a mimic to imitate Jolson on 

stage at the theatre with a record of Jolson's 

voice. The mimic appeared immediately 

after the trailer on the film was run. 

Two encores resulted from his appearance. 

Sound was handled by Harold Horton. chief 

projectionist, who cued in the recording with 

action on the stage. After the stage action, 

an additional trailer was flashed on the 

screen showing the date the film opened and 

other selling points. 

The idea proved favorable with the audience 

and Jarvis said for once patrons were 

quiet during a sales talk. 

Jarvis plans to use additional stunts for 

other future attractions, and he says the 

live-interest idea breaks down patron resistance 

to selling. 

"Theatremen." Jarvis says, "must bring 

showmanship plus salesmanship into the theatre 

if they ever hope to fill seats. Competition 

is keen for the public's entertainment 

dollar and today theatremen, like most other 

businessmen, are running into a buyer's market," 

Oscar Straus Composing 

Music for First Film 

PARIS—0.scar Straus, 80-year-old composer 

of "The Chocolate Soldier" and other 

operettas, is now occupied with his first 

film, "La Ronde," based on a play by the 

late Arthur Schnitzler, which is nearing completion 

under the direction of Max Opuls. 

Straus, who was born in Vienna but is now 

a United States citizen, said he became interested 

in doing a musical version of 

Schnitzler's "Reigen" because of its Viennese 

background. Similar to "Quartet," in that 

the feature is composed of a series of sketches 

connected by slow waltz music which reflects 

the movement of a carousel, the film has 

one central character, played by Anton Walbrook, 

the star of "The Red Shoes. 

SPRINGFIELD 

gosley frowther, motion picture editor and 

critic of the New York Times, was here to 

address the College club. "The responsibility 

for motion pictures is the public's as well 

as the industry's," Crowther said. The Times 

man noted that better pictures are being 

made, and will be placed before the public 

soon. He added, "now it will be the responsibility 

of the public to patronize good pictures." 

John Paxton, United Artists advance man, 

was in town ahead of "Love Happy," which 

opened at the Bijou. One promotion initialed 

by Paxton was the rounding up of married 

couples who would admit they were still in 

love after anywhere from 15 to 50 years of 

married life. Passes to "Love Happy" were 

the reward . Van Leer, Paramount 

publicity chief in Boston, conferred with Ed 

Smith, Paramount manager, and Western 

Massachusetts executives on advance promotion 

for "Sam.son and Delilah." 

Owen Durant, Bijou doorman, has proved 

himself a gentleman of diversified talents. 

Owen, formerly employed at the Springfield 

Armory which manufactures the Garand 

rifle, has written a march, called the "Springfield 

Armory Defense March." It has been 

given the official okay, and will be used in 

local Defense day activities. The Bijou doorman 

has also written the '"Westover Field 

March," which has been published and accepted 

by the Chicopee air base. 

Eddie Harrison, who by day manages the 

KOMKR'r H. UKLING-Owncr 

and Operator, Wayne Theatre, 

Wayne, West Virginia— says: 

"The theatre I operate ia 

small but 1 know that I can 

compete with tlie biggest and 

best by using UCA sound 

and service." 

To get the benefits of RCA .Service 



Camden, N. J. 

Bijou, also is gentleman of musical abilities. 

When the merchants' bureau of the Chamber 

of Commerce held its initial Breakfast 

club meeting, Eddie was at the piano to get 

the members in the right frame of mind. 

A RESEARCH BUREAU 

for MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS 


The MODERN THEATRE PLANNING INSTnUTE 3-18-50 



Gentlemen: 

Please enroll us in your REf/EARCH BUREAU to receive information regularly, as 

released, on the following subjecis for Theatre Planning: 

n Acoustics 

Q Air Conditioning 

Architectural Service 


Q Building Material 

Carpets 

Q Coin Machines 

Q Other SubjecU 

D Complete Remodeling 

Decorating 

Q Drink Dispensers 

D Drive-In Equipment 

Q Lighting Fixtures 

O PlumJbing Fixtures 

n Projectors 


Q Seating 

D Signs and Marquees 

Q Sound Equipment 

Q Television 

n Theatre Fronts 

Q Vending Equipment 

Theatre Seating Capacity 

Address 

City . 

Slot*.. 

Signed.. 

(Owner-Manager) 

Postage-paid reply cords for your further convenience in obtoining information 

ore provided in The MODERN THEATRE RED KEY Section (Nov. 19, 1949). 


. . 

. . . Some 

. . Newsreel 

NEW HAMPSHIRE 

pdward J. Fahey, manager of the State Operating 

Co., which owns the leading theatres 

in Manchester, has written a letter to 

the editors of the Morning Union in that city 

criticizing the action of the board of aldermen 

in banning "Stromboli." He said he had 

spent a sizeable sum advertising the picture 

and that "it certainly is taxation without 

representation when a small minority group 

protests the showing of a picture passed by 

the Legion of Decency and the aldermen decide 

to cancel the picture without seeing it 

or inviting me to attend the meeting and 

present the theatre's side of the controversy." 

The United Labor committee of New Hampshire 

in Manchester adopted a resolution 

pledging opposition to any move to impose 

a ticket tax in this state . . . Soon after 

"Stromboli" was banned in Manchester, the 

Rex in that city ran a small ad in local newspapers 

announcing a showing of "Under 

Capricorn." 

Ersley Blanchard, a motion picture opertor, 

was nominated as Democratic candidate 

for the board of selectmen in Newport . 

A program was held at the Star in Concord 

to celebrate the 38th anniversary of the 

founding of the Girl Scouts. Refreshments 

were served at the theatre party. 

Boasting "Manchester Leads Again," the 

State in that city announced that Manchester 

had been among those selected for the 

first presentation of "Nancy Goes to Rio" 

of the newsreel cameramen, who 

had been covering the baseball spring training 

camps in the south, returned to Manchester 

in time for the windup of the famous Dr. 

Sander "mercy killing" trial. Paramount, 

20th-Fox, Pathe and Warner Bros, were 

among companies represented. 

Recent films at the Currier Gallery of Art 

in Manchester have included "The Shakers," 

"Sculpture and Construction" and "Ballet 

Mechanique" . cameramen, radio 

and newspapermen covering the Dr. Hermann 

Sander trial in Manchester were guests at a 

dinner given at the Manchester Country club 

by the city government. Chamber of Commerce 

and local newspapers and radio stations. 

Later the group was feted at a similar 

gathering held at the Nashua Country 

club. 

From the BOXOFFICE Files 

(Twenty Years Ago) 

•THE KEITH THEATRE in Lowell, Mass., 

has completed installation of a grandeur 

screen, which its makers claim "will start a 

revolution in the making of motion pictures 

comparable to that made by the introduction 

of talkies." It measures 42 by 20 feet. 

Circuit's Trouble Shooter 

Rarely Ever Sees Show 

From Mideast Edition 

SPRINGFIELD, OHIO—A theatreman who 

never gets to see the show—that's Theodore 

Rose, sound and projection supervisor for 

Chakeres Theatres, Inc., which operates 50 

houses in Ohio and Kentucky. 

"No, I never get to see the picture," Rose 

says, "because I'm usually up in the booth or 

back stage—or just roaming around the 

house." But, thanks to him and other men 

like him in the business, patrons are able to 

sit in a theatre, relax and enjoy the show 

without any interruptions, bad sound or poor 

light to disturb them—troubles which not so 

many years ago were nightly occurrences in 

most theatres. 

Rose joined the Chakeres staff in October 

1948. Previously he had been a troubleshooter 

eight years for Warners out of Cleveland. 

Before that he was a sound engineer 

for RCA. 

Only one other job ever lured Rose away 

from theatre life. He was a member of the 

Pennsylvania state police for about a year 

and a half. "That was back when I was 

pretty young and wanted to see if the grass 

was any greener away from a motion picture 

house," he said. "It wasn't, and I was soon 

back." 

Born in Johnstown, Pa., Rose started out 

as usher in a hometown theatre. The house 

featured mostly stage shows. Then he was 

promoted to stage hand. In later years, he 

even tried his hand at acting. But after two 

summers with the Robeson & Smith Stock Co. 

of Johnstown, he decided to stick to the 

"business end" of motion picture theatres. 

Join the Widening Circle 

Send in your reports to BOXOFFICE 

on response of patrons to pictures 

you show. Be one of the many who 

report to — 

THE EXHIBITOR HAS HIS SAY 

Address your letters to Editor, 

"Exhibitor Has His Say," 825 

Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City, 

Mo. 

A Widely Read Weekly Feature of Special Interest 

BOXOFFICE 

Always in the Forefront With the Ne'ws 


TOO Board to Mee) 

In Sunday Session 

OKLAHOMA CITY — Johnny Giffin, 

Miami, chairman of the Theatre Owners of 

Oklahoma board of directors, has called a 

preconvention meeting of the board for 6:30 

p. m. Sunday (26) at the Oklahoma chib here. 

Giffin, here booking and buying for the Coleman 

interests, for which he is managing director, 

said the .special session also would 

be open to wives of the board members. A 

buffet supper will be served. 

For the main TOO parley, which gets under 

way here the following day, 20th-Fox 

starlet Nancy Guild will be one of the Hollywood 

ambassadors as will Henry Wilcoxon, 

a star of "Samson and Delilah." 

Two aspirants to the U.S. Senate, Rep. 

Mike Monroney and the Rev. Bill Alexander, 

pastor of the Krst Christian church here, 

will be on the program. Both will make nonpohtical 

talks. Monroney will speak on the 

remission of excise taxes at one of the convention 

luncheons. Alexander will appear on 

the banquet program the last night of the 

convention. He has appeared on the program 

at the last two conventions. Both men 

are seeking the senate seat now held by Elmer 

Thomas. Monroney is running on the 

Democratic slate, while Alexander is on the 

GOP ticket. 

Gael Sullivan, TOA executive director, will 

speak at the business session Monday (27), 

and William McCraw of Dallas will speak at 

the banquet. 

Among special events planned for the ladies 

is a style show and luncheon Monday at the 

Oklahoma club, in which models will be the 

wives of showmen and entertainers will be 

exhibitors' or showmen's wives. 

Two on Tour for Metro 

Visit Dallas in Week 

DALLAS—Touring on behalf of two MGM 

films. Dot Lind, champion riflewoman, and 

Bridget Carr, Metro starlet, visited different 

days here last week. 

Miss Lind, touring in the interest of "Annie 

Get Your Gun" and wearing the same costume 

that its star Betty Hutton wore, visited 

the Texas Rangers and made radio and television 

appearances. 

Miss Carr arrived on her cross-country tour 

in a Yellow cab. driven by Earl Riggs, Los 

Angeles cab driver who has won many awards 

for safe driving. Miss Carr is featured in 

"The Yellow Cab Man." Tlie car was met 

on the outskirts of Dallas by a fleet of local 

Yellow cabs and escorted to the city hall. 

Riggs presented a safety scroll to Charles 

Becker, local cab driver. 

D. C. Carraway, 61. Dead; 

Clifton, Tex., Exhibitor 

CLIFTON. TEX. — Funeral services were 

held here for D. C. Carraway. 61 -year-old 

veteran theatre operator. Carraway, who 

had run the Clifte Theatre here for 29 years 

and who was also owner of the Circle in 

Meridian, died after a long illness. 

Roy Farrar Buys in Talco 

CELESTE. TEX.—Roy Farrar. owner of 

the Celeste Theatre here, has purchased the 

Talco Theatre in Talco. Tex., from Theo 

Miller. 

SW Theatres 

Expansion 

Includes Five Dtive-lns 

FORT WORTH—C. A. Rlchter. president 

of Southwest Theatres. Inc.. has announced 

plans for a vast expan.sion program. His circuit, 

which now has two drive-ins in San 

Antonio under construction, plans to construct 

at least five additional drive-ins. Construction 

will begin within six months. The 

circuit also plans construction of one new 

conventional-type theatre. Richter's son. 

Charles N. Richter. is a partner in the new 

Cowtown Drive-In Theatres here. 

Forf Worth Compcmy Formed 

To Build Drive-ins 

FORT WORTH—A new corporation. Cowtown 

Drive-In Theatres. Inc.. has been 

formed to build drive-ins in this area. Construction 

has begun on the first, to be named 

the Cowtown Drive-In. It is located on Jacksboro 

highway and 28th street. Officers and 

stockholders are L. N. Crim jr.. president; 

Charles N. Richter, vice-president: Robert 

M. Hartgrove, secretary-treasurer; Thurman 

Barrett jr., and Richard M. Landsman, directors. 

The Cowtown Drive-In will have a capacity 

of 900 cars. It will be equipped with the latest 

RCA equipment. The Harvey A. Jordan 

Construction Co. is building, and the total 

cost will be more than $200,000. 

L. N. Crim jr. is vice-president of the Fort 

Worth Community Theatres, which operates 

seven indoor theatres here. Richter is city 

manager in Corpus Christi for Southwest 

Theatres, Inc. Barrett jr. is a partner with 

THEATRE M.VNAOER—Emma Gonzalez, 

above, has been namrd manager of 

the Rio Theatre at Mission. Tex., by Senor 

Enrique Flores. owner and operator. Miss 

Gonzalez, the dauKhter of Mr. and Mrs. 

Juan Gonzalez, graduated from .Mission 

High school at the age of 17. and started 

her theatre career at the Kio as boxofflce 

cashier. Soon after, she was appointed 

bookkeeper, and later, assistant manacer. 

The anKfesslve young woman, now manager, 

has increased the boxofflce receipts 

by installing new concession room equipment, 

display frames and carpets. 

Landsman and Richter in three San Antonio 

drive-in theatres. Landsman is San Antonio 

city manager for Southwest Theatres and 

Statewide Theatres. Hartgrove is manager 

of the Dallas office of Southwest Theatres. 

Reopen Browmwood Airer 

BROWNWOOD, TEX—The Sunset Drive- 

In reopened after renovations, with a sevenday 

a week schedule. In-car speakers were 

installed and Loreen Williams, manager, said 

the entire area would be reconditioned soon. 

Fences will be painted and the concessions 

stand and boxofflce will be revamped. 

271 Drive-In Reopened 

PARIS. TEX.—The 271 Drive-In near here 

recently was reopened by Elmer Bell after 

having been closed during the winter. The 

.screen, snack bar and restrooms have been 

repainted, and all in-car speakers have been 

overhauled. 

Build at Carrizo Springs 

CARRIZO SPRINGS, TEX —Dimmit county 

soon will have its first drive-in on Highway 

83 five miles north of town. It is being built 

on property purchased from Benjamin Davisson. 

Owners and managers are Andrew 

Majetti. Carrizo Springs, and H. W. Hartung, 

Crystal City, Tex. 

A Terrell, Tex., Drive-In 

TERRELL, TEX.—Construction of a 350- 

car drive-in has been started on a site near 

Wallace airport .south of here. The open air 

theatre is being erected by the S&M Amusement 

Co., of which Leaman Marshall is head. 

Features of the drive-in, which is expected 

to be completed by April 15. will include a 

playproimd for children 

R&R Builds at Big Spring 

BIG SPRING, TEX—A new 800-car R&R 

Drive-In Theatre is being constructed on 

Highway 87 south of the Scurry street Y. on 

land the company has leased from the Texas 

& Pacific Railway Co. Engineering work for 

the drive-in was done by F. R. Redfern of the 

Harvey A. Jordan Construction Co. of Dallas. 

Start Mineral Wells Airer 

MINERAL WELLS. TEX.—W. B. Gates and 

J. T. Sands, owners, have broken ground for 

construction of a drive-in about one-half 

mile east of town on Highway 180. Gates 

and Sands both live in Plainview. The $100.- 

000 drive-in will accommodate 400 cars and 

is slated for opening within 45 days. 

Build Seminole Drive-In 

SEMINOLE. TEX—A drive-in on the Andrews 

highway is being built by W. E. Cox 

jr.. local theatreman. 

Ardmore Ozoner Reopens 

ARDMORE. OKLA—Tower Drive-In Theatre 

reopened Sunday (12). 

BOXOFHCE March 18. 1950 SW 93

. . James 

1 

. . . Oklahoma 

. . Morris 

. . On 

. . The 


Owner and projectionist. Mars 

Theatre, La Farge, Wise— says: 






insurance!" 




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Largest coverase in U.S. No "Net" listinos. 

Highest reputation for know-how 

and fair dealing. 30 years experience includins 

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3422 Kinmore Dallas 10, Texas 

Phone T3-2026 

CONFIDENTIAL CORRESPONDENCE 

94 

CHAS. E. 

OKLAHOMA CITY 

/êne Autry, Richard Arlen and Jack Dempsey 

were in Frederick, Okla.. Monday (13 day (14) with "The Outlaw," starting at the 

from Memphis . Center opened Tues- 

to look over some oil leases in which they are Midwest was "Chain Lightning," at the Criterion 

was "Samson and Delilah" and the 

interested with a Texas independent oilman. 

They flew in from Wichita Falls, Tex., then Tower opened with "Mother Didn't Tell Me," 

back for luncheon and public appearances which was a moveover from the Criterion 

scheduled there . 

Dunn, star of 

City's Northwest Hi-Way and 

"Harvey," which played the Home Theatre Skyview drive-ins have reopened for the season 

. Loewenstein, TOO president, 

stage two nights (16, 17), attended a Red 

Cross fund campaign report luncheon ... It and wife returned from the east earlier than 

was almost SRO again at the Home for the planned due to Mrs. Loewenstein's health. 

Ballet Theatre, presented by Braucht and Loewenstein attended the TOA committee 

Curran on the stage. Standing room was meeting in New York. 

sold a few nights earlier for the play, "Oklahoma!land: 

Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Lance, RingUng; 

Row visitors included Cliff Sanders, Cleve- 

Waldo Martin, Oilton, and Lamar Guthrie, 

Erick . the Row from Texas were Lee 

Guthrie, Wheeler, Wright Hale of Gruver 

and Spearman, and H. S. McMurray of Dumas 

. . . Kenneth Evans of the Den Theatre, 

Corle Pierce, manager of the Home Theatre 

for more than two years, resigned, effective 

March 22. Succeeding him is Charley 

Smith, who worked on Pilmrow many years. 

He has been in the Theatre Poster Service 

office for the past several months with his 

twin brother Bob. Pierce's future plans are 

not definite. He has been in show business for 

about 8 years, working for the old Standard 

circuit, the WB-owned Midwest and others. 

Here for "Annie Get Your Gun" Monday 

was Dot Lind of Springfield, Mass., reportedly 

as sure a shot as the original "Little Sureshot." 

She did a couple of radio shows and 

saw the press at a luncheon which was also 

attended by D. A. Bryce. FBI head here who 

is famous as a quick draw. E. B. Coleman, 

MGM publicist, Dallas, was here with the pistol-packing 

lady. 

M. D. Brazee of Warner Theatres returned 

More and 

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theatre owners are installing 

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Ask us about our PAINLESS 

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USTON POPCORN i EQUIPMENT CO. DELIA THEATRE SUPPLY 

OKLAHOMA THEATRE SUPPLY CO. 

GRAND OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA 

Verden; Truman Ellard, Blanchard; W. T. 

Kerr, Sulphur; A. S. Moore, Duncan, and 

Mr. and Mrs. Sam Ridgeway, Maysville, all 

of Oklahoma, were in booking . . . Mrs. Bess 

Willkie of Harrah and Creal Black of Cordell 

were among the exhibitors to catch the 

tradeshowing Monday (13) of the MGM film, 

"Big Hangover," at the 20th-Fox screening 

room. 

News Story Ads Exploit 

'Saucer' for Drive-In 

BRYAN, TEX.—The Skjrway Drive-In here, 

owned by Jack Farr, took pressbook mats, 

then set in copy from a newspaper story 

quoting a navy officer to exploit "The Flying 

Saucer" at the ozoner. The ad quoted a 

United Press dispatch, complete with headline 

and quotes from the navy commandant 

who said flying saucers were real. 

The remainder of the ad was headed: 

"Headline hot mystery of the skies . . Are 

. 

they fact or fiction?" The ads, Farr said, 

helped the theatre set a record two-day business 

with the film. 

Alta Vista Theatre Opens 

As Spanish Film House 

BEEVTLLE TEX.—The new 772-seat Alta 

Vista Theatre, located on West Corpus Christi 

street, was opened recently. Opening night 

feature was "Soy Charro de Rancho Grande," 

starring Pedro Infante and Sofia Alvarez. 

The new theatre will show Spanish-language 

films daily and Sundays. Joe Salazar is in 

charge of film booking and advertising and 

G. R. Ti-evino and Gerardo Pena. both of 

Beeville, are owners. 

Free Kid Show at Levelland 

LEVELLAND, TEX. — "Merton of the 

Movies" was featured at the free show for 

childreri at the Wallace Theatre, sponsored 

by local merchants and the theatre. 

J. T. BOUTWELL INSTALLATION COMPANY 

Contractor of Theatre, School 

and Church Seating 

W« install any Chair lor anyon* at any plac». 

For information, write 

Box 325 or Call 5327, Temple, Texas 


Mable Guinan of Tower 

Hosts Camp Fire Tour 

DALLAS—In cooperation with the National 

Camp Fire birthday week. March 12-18, 

Mable Guinan, booker for Tower Pictures Co., 

was hostess to the Nah-Ki-We group of Camp 

Fire girls from William Lipscomb school. The 

Camp Fire birthday week theme is "Discoveries 

Unlimited." To help them in theii- discovery 

of the motion picture industry. Miss 

Guinan entertained the girls with a prerelease 

showing of a motion picture, explaining 

to them that through such screenings exhibitors 

are in position to determine whether 

or not they want to contract for the picture 

for showing in their theatre, and if so, what 

playing time they care to give the picture. 

After seeing the film the girls were taken 

to the shipping department where Pearl Herren, 

a veteran film inspector, explained how 

films are inspected and told them of the 

progress made in the motion picture industry 

during her 31 years in the business. She 

told them of the films in silent days with 

disks, and brought them on up to the present 

day, showing them the new acetate safety 

film on which all new prints are coming into 

the Tower Picture Co. vaults. From the shipping 

department the girls were taken to the 

booking department where they were shown 

how films are booked out to exhibitors. Each 

girl was given a one reel can to take home 

and decorate as a candy box, or a box in 

which to keep her Camp Fire beads. 

Charles Darden of Darden Popcorn Co. 

helped to make the girls' evening complete 

by giving a box of popcorn to each girl attending 

the screening. The girls were accompanied 

by their sponsors, Mrs. Earl Carter 

and Mrs. Carl Zollner jr., and their guardian 

Dr. Viola Y. McDonald. 

Patent to Technicolor 

On Color TV Tube 

HOLLYWOOI>—Considerable speculation 

in industry circles followed the disclosure 

by Technicolor that. In one of the most 

significant transactions yet to be undertaken 

involving the interrelated fields of motion 

pictures and television, the color firm has 

acquired patent rights to a color video tube 

Invented by Dr. Willard Geer of the University 

of Southern California. 

Dr. Herbert T. Kalmus. Technicolor president, 

said that his company will appropriate 

"upwards of $500,000" for its research department 

and that a "substantial" part will 

be applied to the "professional and commercial 

application of the Geer tube." 

Such research will be conducted not only 

in Technicolor's laboratories here but also at 

the Stanford university research institute 

under Technicolor's supervision. RCA will 

also contribute to the latter research program. 

There was no indication as to what 

further plans Technicolor may have in connection 

with the tube or whether it may 

presage an entry into the video field on a 

commercial basis by the company. One 

spokesman hinted at the possibility that, with 

color television in the offing. Technicolor 

may capitalize on that development in the 

medium, since the Geer device, it is claimed, 

provides a means of converting existing 

black-and-white receivers to color in a way 

which, according to Dr. Kalmus, "will avoid 

obsolescence." 


Shamrock Hotel Observes 

Its First Anniversary 

HOUSTON—The fabulous Shamrock hotel, 

owned by onc-picture Producer Glenn Mc- 

Carthy, was to celebrate its first anniversary 

Friday (17) with another galaxy of Hollywood 

stars on hand. Due to arrive from the 

west coHst in McCarthy's private plane arc 

Richard Widmark, Eddie Bracken, Wendell 

Corey, Andy Devine, Hugh Herbert, Joan Davis, 

Constance Moore, Robert Paige, Dinah 

Shore and po.ssibly several others 

Signal Corps Film Ready 

WASHINGTON—The Signal Corps has 

made "Assignment Germany," a 16mm short 

subject about the occupation of Germany, 

available on loan for non-profit screenings. 

Prints may be secured from the signal officer 

at any corps area headquarters. Castle 

Films, Inc.. 1445 Park Ave., New York, will 

sell 16mm prints to organizations wanting 

them for educational purposes. 

Buys Drive-In Interest 

SAN ANGELO, TEX.—R. S. Starling, owner 

of the Starlite and Twilight drive-ins here, 

has purcha.sed the one-half interest of Mr. 

Maudlings in the Tower Drive-In at Stephenville. 

Starling now owns that ozoner In partnership 

with R. S. Roberts. 

W F. Edmonston Buys Rex 

COVINGTON, OKLA.—W. F. Edmonston 

has purchased the Rex Theatre here from 

W. G. Palmer, who has reopened hLs real 

estate office at Ponca City. Edmonston formerly 

owned the Blue Moon at Garber. 

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DALLAS 

Jimmy Allard, the Palace manager, was back booked for a Rialto opening . 

came 

' on the job after an illness which kept him from Hollywood that Gary Cooper would be 

in bed ten days ... P. A. Bob Warner of the star of the forthcoming Warner film, 

Manley. Inc. left by plane Sunday (12) to "Dallas." It is to be about the city in the 

attend the funeral of his brother Arthur S., post-Civil war era. 

in New Haven, Conn. Arthur was the eldest 

R. J. O'Donnell of Interstate and chief 

of four children. The others are Mrs. A. 

barker of 'Variety Clubs International received 

Mautte and Miss Jennie Warner . . . Louis 

Santikos of the Almos Theatre in San Antonio 

was in town booking. The new 

word that a group of 30 Italian filmmen 

in Rome have agreed to form a new 'Variety 

Club tent there . Dallas Lions 

theatre 

has just opened . . . Ellis W. Levy, western 

division manager for the Telenews The- 

club is to sponsor a stage presentation of 

the 

atres. Inc., was here on a four-day visit. The NBC show People Are Funny, at the Fair 

Park auditorium here March 25. 

corporation owns the downtown Dallas Theatre. 

Exhibitors on the Row: Lloyd Franklin, 

Sunshine Theatre, Clovis, N. M.; W. O. Bearden, 

Aicadia, Lubbock; Mrs. Ruth Norwood 

Likins, Broadway, Abilene; Jack Groves, Post 

Oak Drlve-In, Houston; Dean Jones and 

Tommy Yates, Anna Theatre, Anna; E. B. 

Wharton, Rule, Rule; P. V. Williams, Roxy, 

Munday; Mrs. Jay Huckabee, Odeon, Palmer; 

Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Tittle, Star, Cumby; 

Mrs. Marie Schulman, Dixie, Bryan; C. O. 

Simmons, Plaza, Denton; D. E. Smith, Globe, 

Bertram; T. J. Hooser and E. W. Hooser, 

Ritz Theatre, Seymour; Gidney Talley, Talley 

Enterprises, San Antonio; J. C. Webb, 

Sunset Drive-In, Temple. 

The Lagow Theatre had the Kara-Kum 

magic show on its stage for a special midnight 

event . . . James O. Cherry, Interstate 

city manager, said mail orders for tickets to 

the stage attraction, "That Lady," with Katharine 

Cornell, was especially heavy. The play 

comes in for a matinee and night engagement 

March 23 at the Majestic. 

The Capitan Theatre played two first run 

films, Warners' "One Last Fling" and "The 

House Across the Street," each getting a 

three-day showing . . . Betty Wells, former 

MGM starlet, visited her parents, Mr. and 

Mrs. T. E. Culwell, before going to St. Louis 

for a club engagement . Summers 

of the Josephine in San Antonio was in booking 

. . . Julian Bowles, who has handled several 

film exploitation campaigns, was named 

assistant publicity director for the state fair. 

Charles Yeager is the director. One of 

Bowles' duties will be to handle the publicity 

of the summer Starlight operetta shows here. 

Jack F. Dalley, former local Paramount 

exploiteer and now assistant manager of New 

York's Radio City Music Hall, is to visit 

here April 10 . . Frank Starz of Interstate 

. 

left on a swing around the circuit . . . TVo 

of the late 'Will Rogers' films, "David Harum" 

and "Steamboat Round the Bend," were 

Jack Corgan, Dallas architect who has designed 

a number of theatres, left for Tulsa 

The Delman staged a children's fashion 

show in a night engagement. Children, ranging 

in age from 1 to 12, modeled spring and 

summer clothes in a 30-minute show. Style 

commentator was Mrs. R. B. Regis. "Up in 

Central Park" was the screen attraction. For 

there . . . Ben Goldberg, with Spaller Pictures 

of New York, will arrive next week to 

a Saturday morning kiddy matinee, the Delman 

brought in the Wrangers, four western 

confer on Coronet bookings. 

singers and musicians, to highlight a show 

that included Gene Autry's "The Cowboy and 

the Indians" and six cartoons. 

The Variety Club of Dallas sponsored a St. 

Patrick's dance and dinner Friday (17) in the 

Grand ballroom of the Adolphus hotel. The 

club will also sponsor a spring golf tournament 

at the Dallas Country club May 27-29, 

and is to give a square dance soon. 

to attend the funeral of his brother, Cleo 

Clifford . . . Gene Autry flew his own plane 

in here to pick up Jack Dempsey for a Wichita 

Falls benefit show for the Boys Club 

swimming pool and the armed services YMCA 

James Butler plans on opening his new 

Lincoln Theatre for Negro patronage around 

April 1. The theatre will seat 500 people . . . 

Ruth Ann Mclnaney, daughter of Justin and 

Ruth Mclnaney, was married to George D. 

Athey. Mclnaney is with Alexander Film 

Co. here. 

Hillbilly Acts Scheduled 

Once a Month at Drive-In 

DALLAS—Hillbilly performers will make 

appearances once a month at the Downs 

Drive-In, owner Tim Ferguson announced 

this week. The new policy was begun Thursday 

and Friday (16, 17) with a show headed 

by the Delmore brothers, and featuring 

Wayne Raney and Lonnie Glosson, all guitarists 

and singers. The Downs is on the 

Fort Worth highway between Grand Prairie 

and Arlington. 


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Long Circuit Opens 

$250,000 Theatre 

EDNA, TEX.—The new $250,000 Edna Theatre, 

with four adjoining store spaces, was 

opened officially here with Mayor Harry 

Mauritz and Dr. R. E. Lee. president of the 

Chamber of Commerce, officiating. The 

ultramodern house was built by the Long 

Theatre interests of Bay City and is on the 

Edna courthouse square. 

Kingsville Texas Opens 

KINGSVILLE. TEX.—The new 1,300-seat 

Texas here, which Hall Industries of Beeville 

opened last February, has found immediate 

patronage. Feature of tlie new house 

is a cry room. The auditorium is decorated 

in rose and blue against tan acoustical plaster 

walls. The house has a Cycloramic screen. 

Carrier 85-ton air conditioning and a blue 

satin waterfall curtain. 

Tex at Alvin Opened 

ALVIN, TEX.—The Tex, newest local 

theatre, 

is scheduled to turn on blazing neon 

lights and a flashing sign to mark its opening 

April 1. The lobby and front of the theatre 

will be decorated in a western motif, 

with sand-blasted shiplap to carry out the 

design. The interior will be finished in a 

powder blue and dark oak. M. A. Matlock 

and Roy Lambden are the owners. 

Organize Unit Theatre 

HOUSTON—Ray StrickUn. who appeared 

in RKO short subjects before being screentested 

by Republic, recently organized the 

Unit Theatre. 407 Stratford, for the purpo.se 

of trying out new scripts. This professional 

experimenial production company has on its 

acting roster such local names as Pat Hcnn 

Sally Larson Smith, Joe Campbell, Loin c 

Stell, 

Walli Rucker, Janel Swindler and olli- 

ONE WESTERN ^^^^^^^ 

EVERY 

WEEK 

^^^^^^^^^ FEATURES 

^^^B^^l^^k. 

BIG STAR

. 

. . Jewell 

. . The 

. . Mrs. 

. . Eph 

SAN ANTONIO 

. 

MANLEY SUPREME. 

.«. ^ ^ ^ — I! Telephone P 7-1625 

l:t.^.':^^,l°^t SI 0.25 i\ dallas texas 

. 

tect John Marriott, San Antonio; Interior 

Decorator C. Russell Lewis, Dallas; Samuels 

Glass Co., and Gianotti-Ramsey Construction 

Co. here, are some of the firms that had a 

part in the construction of the new north 

side house. Thomas Nickelson is advertising 

director for the Olmos Amusement Co. and 

John Santikos has been made house manager. 

H. A. Daniels of Seguin and Eph Charnin- 

Lky here were to open their new drive-in 

theatre at Seguin Wednesday (15). Daniels 

al!0 operates the Palace and Texas there . . . 

Mi-s. Edna Mae McAvey, formerly on the 

Palace staff, now is the new concession attendant 

at the Texas . . . San Antonio will 

have its second Spanish daily this summer 

when La Tribuna starts publication. 

Margaret Truman drew a small but responsive 

audience at the Municipal auditorium 

Thursday C9). She took several bows 

and as an encore sang two extra numbers . . 

Mrs. Louis Hess, wife of the assisant manager 

of Clasa-Mohme here, is visiting her 

parents at the Golden-Strand hotel, Miami 

Beach, Fla. . . Venita Hale has returned 

. 

to the Empire boxoffice after a lengthy 

absence. 

Clasa-Mohme's new release "Callejira" (Girl 

of the Streets) features Manga Lopez, Fernando 

PETEE CHANDIS— Manager and Fernandez, Tona la Negra and Trio Los 

Panchos in the cast. It has the song "Nuestro 

partner. Log Cabin Theatre, Oklahoma 

Amor" (Our Love), composed by Ralph 

City, Okla.—affirms: 

Ramirez of Mission, Tex., who is the brother 

of 

"I Jike RCA Service because 

Arnaldo Ramirez of the Rio, Mission, and 

distributor of Falcon Records there. 

my sound worries are over." 




Camden, N. J. 

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•The new Olmos Theatre opened here Wednesday 

(8) under the direction of Louis 

Santikos and John Carson. District Attorney 

Bill Hensley cut a ribbon to a bag full of 

roses and $5 bills. There was entertainment 

by the Rhythm Rustlers, Bobby Klein's 

orchestra and an exhibition of modern dancing 

by the Arthur Murray studio. "The Girl 

From Manhattan" was the opening attraction. 

Fireworks added splendor to the event 

and all patrons were given souvenirs^. Modern 

Theatre Equipment Co., Dallas; Archi- 

Mike Benitez of the Benitez circuit, Weslico, 

has started construction work on a new 

Mexican theatre in Donna, Tex. . . . Agapito 

Presa opened his new Alta Vista, Beeville, 

March 4, after a week's delay due to delivery 

For the slight difference in price Manley gives you 

^^ RALPH WARNER 

corn that pops out fluffier and bigger — to create 

^^ ^^ ^ Shartel 

for you a greater profit, and more satisfied cus- '^\ Qklohoma City, Ottla 

tomers. Only Manley gives you the complete pacK- -^^^ .j^j 2-5893 

of equipment as a result of transportation 

difficulties, which could not be avoided. The 

new house will maintain a Spanish picture 

policy. 

H. R. Garza opened the new Mexico Theatre, 

Rio Grande City King Drive-In, 

. 

San Marcos, has started showing one Latin 

American film each week. It has a mixed 

picture policy . . . Mrs. Esther Izaguirre 

Cuellar of the Rex, Mission, is on her honeymoon 

in Havana, Cuba Charninsky. 

. 

city manager for Southern Theatres here, 

said that "Stromboli" did satisfactory business 

during its six-day engagement at the 

Palace and Uptown. 

Candidate for the most polite office manager 

of the week: Carl Besch, Statewide 

Drive-In Theatres, Inc., here in the Majestic 

building Truex, Azteca manager, 

. 

came back from a visit to Los Angeles where 

he was called by his mother's illness . . . 

Gordon Dunlap, Clasa-Mohme manager here, 

will be in Dallas Sunday (19) visiting his 

brother Stuart, manager for MGM in Buenos 

Aires and other South American countries, 

who is there on his annual vacation. 

"Francis" was sneak previewed at the Majestic 

Wednesday evening along with the 

regular feature, "Key to the City" . . . John 

Currie, music publisher and manufacturer of 

Everstate Records, returned from a business 

trip to New York . T. J. Jackson, 

wife of the Falfurrias tentshow operator, 

can make the most delicious fruit cake. We 

sampled some recently at one of the film 

exchanges. 

Molly Heilman, former San Antonio Light 

staff writer, now is writing a column for 

the Boerne Sun. It is titled "Spotlights" . . . 

Harold L. Shelton of Austin has joined BOX- 

OFFICE subscribers. 

Huge Convertible Roof 

To Cover Amphitheatre 


PITTSBURGH—The proposed retractable 

roof for the Civic Light Opera's new 9,000- 

seat amphitheatre here is attracting widespread 

interest. The three-foot scale model, 

unveiled recently, brings one step nearer 

the realization the proposed new house for 

light opera in Pittsburgh. It is attracting 

spectators from the whole tristate area. 

James A. Mitchell of the architectural firm 

of Mitchell & Ritchey explained the amphitheatre 

from the model. It will be 400 feet 

in diameter. The collapsible-convertible roof 

will be of a fireproof plastic fabric, supported 

by a cantilever. Half of it will fold clockwise, 

the other half counter-clockwise, over the 

entire seating area and stage. Powered by 

two 75-horsepower electric motors, it can be 

closed in 2V-! minutes. 

Onstage, the sliding screen also will be 

power-operated, and there- will be two revolving 

turntables on the stage. A drainage 

system has been planned to take care of the 

rain coming off the roof. 

USED THEATRE CHAIRS 

A variety of used theatre chairs in good 

condition. 

Contact: FORREST DUNLAP 

GRIGGS EQUIPMENT CO. 

2008 Jockson St. R-3595, Dallas 

98 


— 

Argentine Pictures 

Exchange to Dallas 

DALLAS—Juan Martin, president of the 

Martin Argentine Films Corp.. annnvmced 

this week that Dallas had been chosn i. 

one of three distribution centers in th. 

try for Argentinian films. Offices \v.i\' 

established in New York at 12 West 55Lh St., 

and are to be established in Los Angeles. The 

Dallas office is expected to be in the Film 

Exchange building. 

Martin, former consular official, said he 

had made a survey of the southwest before 

making the announcement. He has been in 

this country four weeks. Martin talked with 

Dallas exhibitors, and arrangements were 

completed for the first of the Argentinian 

films to be shown within several weeks. Exhibitors, 

he said, were eager to show the 

films. 

The corporation has about 1,50 films available 

for showing. Sixty films are being produced 

each year. The company's distribution 

contracts are with ten studios in Argentina. 

The studio contracts cover a five-year period. 

The motion pictures are black and white, 

spoken in Spanish. English subtitles will be 

added. Among the first films brought here 

will be "Romance Musical," "Pelota de 

Trapo." "El Seductor," "Almafuerte" and "La 

Dama Duende." 

Charter Theatre Firms 

COLUMBIA, S. C—Sumter and Greenwood 

Theatre Co., and Ecco Theatres, Inc., 

have been issued state charters. Capital stock 

in both is $5,000, and James C. Cartledge is 

president of both firms. 

Sycamore Theatre to Open 

SYCAMORE, ALA.—A new Sycamore Theatre, 

replacing one destroyed by fire December 

31, is expected to open about April 1. 

Harry MacGowan is owner of the new house, 

which will be built of concrete blocks. It 

will have a capacity of 400, with a balcony. 


LOOK! 


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"SPOT TAG" 

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theatres' 








"Specialists in Drive- In Theatre Trailers" 

125 Hyde St., San Francisco 2, Cal f. 

PORTRAIT FOR THK.VTRK— R. J. ODonnell. viro-presldcnt and Ballas. Sidewalk 

peddlers are selling copjTlghted music 

on sheets for five cents a copy. Federal investigators 

are looking into the situation, 

but some of them have been threatened with 

death if the investigation continues. 

Theatre Awards Trophy 

For Part in Local Film 

MILTON. FLA.—Annette Cobb, daughter 

of deputy .sheriff and Mrs. Wade Cobb, was 

awarded the O.scar trophy at the Milton 

Theatre for her part in a newsreel film recently 

made here. Miss Cobb represented the 

Mack Williams Furniture & Hardware Co. 

Filmgoers. who attended the showing of the 

newsreel, were given tickets and allowed to 

vote on "who they thought was the outstanding 

young lady screened." Mi.ss Cobb 

received the largest number of votes and 

was crowned "Miss Personality of 1950." 

Those who appeared in the newsreel were 

special guests of the Milton when Miss Cobb 

was given the trophy. 

* MACHINE FOLD 

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for 

MODERN THEATRE PLANNERS 

ENROLLMENT FORM FOR THE INFORMATION 


PLANNING mSTITUTE 



Gentlemen: 


to receive information regularly, as released, on 


n Acoustics n Lighting Fixtures 

D Air Conditioning q Plumbing Fixtures 

n Architectural Service 

^ p,„jg^,„3 

D "Black" Lighting 

G Building Material 

D Carpets 

n Coin Machines 


n Seating 

Signs and Marquees 

D Complete Remodeling Sound Equipment 

D Decorating 

Television 

D Drink Dispensers D Theatre Fronts 

D Drive-In Equipment Q Vending Equipment 

n Other Subjects.. 

AT JULIUS SCHEPPS DINNER—Julius Schepps, chief barker of the Variety Club 

of Dallas in 1948 and 1949, and his wife, stand under his portrait at the head table 

of the testimonial dinner given him in Dallas recently by the Variety Club. Left to 

right, at the speakers table, are Charles D. Turner, Dallas lawyer; Msgr. W. J. 

Bender, chaplain of the Variety Club; John H. Rowley, 1950 chief barker; Texas Gov. 

Allan Shivers; R. J. O'Donnell, Interstate vice-president and general manager and 

chief barker. Variety International; Mr. and Mrs. Schepps; William McCraw, executive 

director of Variety International; R. L. Thornton, chairman of the Mercantile 

National bank, and Rabbi Levi A. Olan, Temple Emanu-El. 

AUSTIN 

lônte Hale, Hollywood western star, played 

a two-day personal appearance at the 

Capitol along with the showing of "Prince 

of the Plains." Francis Vickers, skipper of 

the Capitol, reported good business ... At 

the Paramount, Interstate's flagship house, 

cashier Katharine May is known as "The Girl 

in the Gilded Cage" and still is spreading a 

lot of goodwill for Interstate with her courtesy 

and efficiency. 

Lou Novy, city manager, says a sure sign 

of spring in Austin is the increase of marriages. 

Jack Fogerty, Paramount treasurer, 

took the vows recently. Red Russell, assistant 

skipper of the Chief Drive-In, will be 

married soon . Harold "Buster" Novy, 

. . 

manager of the Paramount, went to Dallas 

on a film-buying trip. 

'Key' Chalks Up 110 

As Best in Dallas 

DALLAS—A late cold wave and the income 

tax deadline probably accounted for the poor 

business at local theatres. "Key to the City" 

at the Majestic was the topper with 110 

per cent. "The Kid From Texas," in its second 

downtown week at the Tower, dropped 

to 85 per cent. 

(Average is 100) 

Capitol—Project X (FC); The Flying Saucer (FC) .... 60 

Coronet—Stromboli (RKO). 2nd run 50 

Dallas—Bedelia (EL): The Hidden Room (EL) 90 

Majestic-Key to the City (MGM) 110 

Melba—Thelma lordon (Para) 75 

Palace—Young Man With a Horn (WB) 

Rialt^Forewell to Artni (WB); Hatchet Mon 

80 

(WB), reissues 70 

(U-l), t, Tower—The Kid From Texas 2nd d wk 85 

Theatre 

Seating Capacity,. 

Address 

City 

State : 

Signed 

Postage-paid reply cards for your further convenience 

In obtaining Information are provided in The MODERN 

THEATRE RED KEY SECTION (Nov. 19, 1949). 

New Huff water-cooled arcs were installed 

in Paramount projectors by E. P. Ischy and 

H. W. "Pete" Myer. Ish is business agent 

of the operators local; Pete "rolls 'em" at the 

Chief . Quixote," an import, chalked 

up terrific business at the Texas . . . Elmo 

Hegman brought back "Destroyer" to the Ritz 

. . . "Mine Own Executioner" had its first 

local showing at the Varsity 

stage show at the Paramount is "Harvey," 

starring James Dunn, April 3 . . . "The Kid 

Prom Texas" bagged a two-day holdover at 

the Queen. 

Like most towns in Texas, Austin is amassing 

drive-ins. Eddie Joseph owns and operates 

the North Austin, the South Austin 

and the Montopolis ozoners. Ezell & Associates 

have the Chief Drive-In, an 816-car 

situation, on the Dallas highway, and soon 

will have a 750-auto airer completed on the 

Burnet highway. The Burnet will have a 56- 

foot screen, a 72-foot concession stand and a 

patio with chairs and tables. 



tax? 

You'll Always 

Be 

Glad 

You Bought a 

Cretors" 

...from 

BLEVINS 

Stormy Meado'ws 

BLEVINS POPCORN CO. 

3021/2 S. Harwood 

DALLAS, TEXAS 


« aTher 

ST. PETERSBURG—The Ninth Street Theatre 

has been leased to Robert and Wllliani 

Boardman of the Playhouse Theatre by the 

new owner of the property. Robert A. James. 

The lease is for three months but it is expected 

that it will be extended for at least 

a year. James recently bought the theatre 

from Florida State Theatres for an unannounced 

price. The new lessees of the 

theatre will operate it as an additional out- 

Wew Or/eons Fox to Build 

3,000-Seater in Gentilly 

was issued under 

suit by the federal 

that large film 

ing pictures or 

James bought 

ago. The Boardmans 

tre to operate In 

house, so arranged 

is a small one 

and is what is 

house. There has 

Petersburg Players, 

shows at the South 

using the Ninth 

and this is still 

Eberle. promoter 

is too small for 

William Boardman 

will be operated 

prices the same 

Ernest Rush 

President 

LITTLE ROCK—Local 

employes and machine 

Ernest Rush as 

officers include 

president; Paynter 

financial secretary; 

urer; Ira Baldridge, 

Copeland, assistant 

Gates, sergeant 

Rush and V. 

Shoemaker was 

tions. 

TalgoT Managers 

LAKELAND. 

manager for Talgar 

a number of managerial 

cuit. Vernon Carter 

State in Tallahassee, 

Dannold. 

Carter managed 

Florida before 

Talley has been 

Van Croix Theatre 

ceeding Jack Chesnutt. 

ferred to Vero 

new Vero Beach 

soon. 

Kiddy Prices 

DEFUNIAK 

cus. manager 

nounced a reduction 

sion for children 

BOXOFTICE :: 

let for pictures 

showing at the 

Florida State, 

under orders from 

four theatres in 

a consent decree 

government 

companies either 

operating theatres. 

the property 

needed another 

conjunction with 

the new lease. 

seating less than 

known as a "neighborhood" 

been some talk 

now giving 

Side Junor 

Street Theatre 

a possibility though 

of the company, 

his purpose. 

said the 

as a first run 

as at other first 

Is Elected 

of Local 204 

204 of 

operators 

president for 

Leonard Thaulmuller, 

Rochelle. 

Guy C. Redmond, 

business agent; 

business 

at arms, and L. 

T. Hardcastle. trustees. 

named delegate 

Shifted 

FLA.—Bolivar 

Theatre Co., 

changes 

is new manager 

replacing 

a number 

going to Tallahassee. 

appointed manager 

at Melbourne. 

who has 

Beach, Fla., to 

Drive-In, which 

Cut 

SPRINGS, FLA.—W. 

of the Ritz Tlieatre, 

in the price 

from 15 cents that have been 

Playhouse. 

a Paramount 

federal court 

St. Petersburg. 

Mrs. Betty Stern Killed 

In Automobile Accident 

SHREVEPORT- Mrs. Betty Stern. 29. wile 

.screenwriter, 

shatta, a town about 45 miles from here. 

Her husband. 27-year-old U-I .screenwriter, 

suffered severe cuts on the forehead, lacerations 

on the head and a fractured collar 

bone. He was reported resting well at the 

clinic in Coushatta. 

Dr. L. S. Huckabay. Red River parish 

coroner, said Mrs. Stern died of a broken 

neck, internal injuries and a fractured .skull. 

Stern told Huckabay that he and his wife 

were on their way from their home in Hollywood 

to visit his parents in New York, but 

had decided to take a route through Shreveport. 

New Orleans and up the east coast 

to New York. They were en route to New 

Orleans when the accident occurred. 

Mrs. Stern's body was held at Rose-Neath 

Funeral home here pending arrival of her 

sister from Hollywood and Stern's parents 

from New York. 

Louis Rosenbaum Feted 

By Florence. Ala , Club 

FTiORENCE, ALA.—Louis Rosenbaum of 

Muscle Shoals Theatres, one of this town's 

most prominent citizens, was paid high 

honor by the local Exchange club recently 

when his name was inscribed In its Bqok 

of Golden Deeds. Tlie ceremony took place 

at a dinner and was in recognition of Rosenbaum's 

service to his community and district 

and to his fellowmen. 

The award Is given only to those who have 

served with no thought of personal gain, according 

to J. W. Powell, head of the club. 

Rosenbaum, in accepting the award, credited 

most of his service to the citizens of the 

town who, through their cooperation, gave 

him "the opportunity to render the services" 

for which he Ls credited. 

Hastings Theatre Sold 

HASTINGS. FLA.—The Spuds Theatre here 

now is under the management and ownership 

of E. M. Hud.son, theatre operator for 

20 years in Palatka and other Florida cities. 

The theatre and sound system have been 

remodeled and the house Is open every night 

except Tuesday. The management cooperates 

with churches by not opening on Sunday 

until 8 p. m. 

St. Andrews Askey Opened 

ST. ANDREWS, S. C.-The Askey Theatre 

has been opened, with Pastime Amu.sement 

Co. set to operate the house. 

SE 

of Leonard Stern. Hollywood 

was killed Monday afternoon when she was 

thrown from a convertible which went out 

of control and slammed into a heavy transport 

truck about seven miles north of Cou- 

bought for 

affiliate, is 

to dispose of 

following 

which asked 

quit produc- 

.several weeks 

thea- 

This order 

the Play- 

The theatre 

400 persons 

of the St. 

professional 

High school, 

next season 

Robert 

thinks it 

Ninth Street 

hou.se with 

runs here 

theatre stage 

have elected 

1950. Other 

vice- 

recording and 

treas- 

Johnny 

agent: Calvin 

B. Herring. 

Jack 

to conven- 

Hyde, general 

has made 

in the cir- 

of the 

James Mcof 

theatres in 

P. C. 

of the 

Pla.. suc- 

been trans- 

manage the 

will open 

E. Medi- 

has an- 

of admU- 

to 9 cents. 

NEW ORLEANS—Fox Theatres of New Orleans, 

headed by Charles A. Gulotta, has 

purchased a site in the Gentilly district for 

construction of a 3,000-.seat theatre. It will 

be the largest .suburban house here, and 

among the largest neighborhood houses in 

the country. The location Is half way between 

tl-c Fox Theatre, a unit of Fox Tlicalres, and 

the Pitt, owned by the Pitt brothers. 

Sidney Otis Booking Service, now handling 

ten accounts in Louisiana and Ml.ssi.sslppl, 

including the Fox. also will book and buy for 

Ihe new situation. 

Jack Corgan, who planned the Vogue Theatre 

here, will be the architect. The slai;

. . Al 

. . Louis 

. . Ralph 

ATLANTA 

Arthur C. Bromberg, Monogram Southern 

Exchanges president, was visiting in 

Florida . Rook, former Columbia salesman 

here, has taken over the drive-in at 

Port Lauderdale, Fla . Waits, Capital 

City Supply Co. vice-president, returned from 

The Hanger Theatre here, recently 

Florida . . . 

purchased by Bill Green of Palmetto, 

Ga., has been renamed the Skyway . . . Hugh 

Owen, Paramount eastern and southern sales 

manager, left for New York following a 

here. 

visit 

— 


Owner and projectionist, Mars 

Theatre, La Farge, Wise.— says: 






insurance!" 




Camden, N. J. 

NO PERFORATIONS 

20% MORE LIGHT 

and BETTER VISION from 

EVERY SEAT! 

CYCLeRAMIC 

Custom Screen 

*Patenl applied for 

Ed Stevens, Stevens 16mm Exchanges president, 

was in Chicago attending the rural 

electrification convention . . . Charles Karr, 

Martin Theatres head booker, returned from 

Longview, Tex., after attending the funeral 

of his mother . McCoy, Film Classics 

branch manager, was back from the 

The engagement 

home office in New York . . . 

of Patricia Smith, Columbia, to A. W. 

Prewitt was among those announced in local 

newspapers. 

Theatremen on Filmrow booking and buying 

included P. L. Taylor, Bishop Theatres, 

Columbus; Roy Mitchell, Stone Mountato, 

Stone Mountain, and E. D. Martin, Columbus, 

Ga.; W. W. Wright, Drive-In, Gadsden, 

and Mack Jackson, Jackson Theatres, Alexander 

City, Ala., and Al Rook, Drive-In, Fort 

The city council in 

Lauderdale, Fla. . . . 

Hazelhurst, Ga., has approved Sunday films 

between 1:30 and 6 p. m., providing that educational 

or religious pictures are shown at 

least once monthly. 

Rain and Cold Fail to Hurt 

Attendance at 'Stromboli' 

LITTLE ROCK—Despite a steady downpour 

and cool weather, hundreds of Little 

Rock theatregoers attended the opening of 

"Stromboli" at two local theatres Sunday. 

Sam Kirby, owner of the Nabor, said the 

crowd was "even better than anticipated, 

despite heavy rain." In fact, he said he "ran 

out of seats" several times during the day. 

M. J. Pi-uniski, manager of the Park in 

North Little Rock, which also showed "Stromboli," 

said that he did a "very good" business. 

Burning Cross Is Warning 

To Halt 'Pinky' Showing 

PORT ST. JOE, FLA.—Manager C. J. Brown 

of the Port Theatre recently found a cross 

burning in the vacant lot across the street 

from the theatre. Next morning, he received 

a warning via his Negro porter not to show 

the film "Pinky" or to "suffer the consequences." 

^ 

The Magic Screen of 

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Perfect sound transmission 

Elimination of backstage 

Reverberation 

Perfect vision in Front 

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WIL-KIN THEATRE SUPPLY, INC. 

Atlanta, Georgia Charlotte, North Corolino 

"Eyerything for the theatre except film" 

! 

Rites for W.E.Malin 

Held in Augusta, Ark. 

AUGUSTA, ARK.—Funeral services were 

held here for W. E. Malin, 59, owner of the 

Lura Theatre, who was 

killed in an automobile 

wreck between Little 

Rock and Jacksonville. 

Services were 

held at the Methodist 

church with burial in 

Augusta Memorial 

park. 

Malin was a past 

president of the Arkansas 

ITO and a resident 

of Augusta for 

W. E. Malin 

about 25 years, coming 

here from Cotton 

Plant. He served two terms as mayor of 

Augusta and also was a past president of the 

Tristate Theatre Owners Ass'n. 

The automobile in which he was riding 

overturned four times near the intersection 

of Highways 67-E and 67-W. Malin was traveling 

toward Little Rock when the right 

wheels of his car went off the pavement 

and the machine went out of control. 

He is survived by his wife, two sons Bernays 

and W. E. jr., a daughter Marjorie, a 

sister Mrs. Rose Hamblett of Alhambra, 

Calif., and three grandchildren. 

Free Show Given for Kids 

DUNEDIN, FLA.—The children came in 

for their share of fun when for the first 

time a free film was shown for them at 

the Palms Theatre. Gordon Bennett, manager 

of the theatre, offered "Under Colorado 

Skies" Saturday morning at 10. Tickets 

for the show were secured from any 

Dunedin merchant during Bargain days. 

Martin-Davis to Build 

PANAMA CITY, FLA.—Martin-Davis Theatres 

plan construction of a drive-in on West 

15th street and says ground for the new 

plant will be broken at once. The theatre 

will have a capacity of 600 cars. The drive-in 

will be named the Gulf. 

BUILDING A DRIVE-IN. INDOOR 

THEATRE OR REMODELING 

** + + ->< 

you CAN SAVE MONEY 

M * * * ¥ 

CONTACT 

UNITED THEATRE SUPPLY CORP. 

110 Fraqklin St. Tcunpa, Fla. 

Phone 2-3045 


PORT HOLE BLOWER 

Eliminates Oust, Bugs and Rain From Coniiiio m Po 

Hole — Also eliminates use ol Onlical fllass, Tlierelo 



. . . The 

. . . Mamie 

. . The 

- 

. . 

— 

NEW ORLEANS 

lyfrs. Elmer McCarty, former stenographer 

at the Para*mount-Gulf Theatres office, 

now is living in Houston . . . Cecil Howard, 

Joy Theatres booker, was home three days 

due to a minor operation . . . Claire Zinser 

of Theatres Service Co. has announced her 

engagement. 

New Jerseyan Seeks Okay 

To Key West Airer Plan 

KET^ WEST—A representative of a New 

Jersey circuit was in the city recently and 

said his firm wanted to construct an $80,000 

drive-in here. 

He indicated that the proposal will be presented 

at the next meeting of the municipal 

zoning board when the company will ask that 

the district along Roosevelt boulevard, between 

Irwin Poche, formerly with the Poehe Theatre 

here, has booked Jose and Amparo Iturbi George street and Pogarty avenue, be 

rezoned to permit construction of the theatre. 

for a concert at the Municipal auditorium The representative said that a site in that 

April 17 . . . Mrs. Ruth Bohne. Paramount location had been selected by the company. 

Gulf Theatres booker, left her desk to care He also said it contained about eight acres 

for her husband who was injured in a bus of land and would easily accommodate 500 D. J. YOUNC — Owner of thu 

accident . . . Vaughn Monroe and his Camel automobiles. 

Mexico Thentre, Hrowrmville, Texas 

radio show appeared here this week The Key West Chamber of Commerce was — affirm.s: 

. 


Waddy Jones, Joy Theatres booker, is settled first approached by the man regarding the 

"During the 17 years we 

in his new home with his wife Aurora and proposed construction of the theatre. 

have u»ed RCA equipment 

daughter Pat. 

He said that the company never placed 

we have been more than 

such a theatre in towns under 40,000 population 

but added that the theatre chain might 

but praLse for RCA .StTvico." 

plea.sed —and have nothing 

William Sendy presented the RKO star, 

the Masked Texan, and his horse Silver Chief consider Key West although the city has To get the iM-nefita of RCA St-rvice 

in the new Patio Theatre, Kenner, La. . . . under 40,000. 

write: KCA SEKVICK COMPANY, 

The Rivoli and Famous, United circuit theatres, 


featured Huntz "Batch" Hall, star of 

Martin Circuit to Start 

Camden, N. J. 

"East Side Kids," in a personal appearance 

Building Eufaula Airer 

mothers of Miss W. Gaude and 

Mrs. Freida Ross, both of the Paramount- EUFAULA, ALA.—Work is expected to 

start within 90 days on a drive-in here for 

Gulf accounting department, died recently. 

Martin Theatres. 

Ida Klos, head booker at Paramount-Gulf, Walter Jolly, manager of the Gem here, DeVry Drive-In Equipment 

helped her father celebrate his 96th birthday said that the company had purchased a 

Lass, Film Classics booker, is ixi tract with 575-foot frontage about two miles 

a local hospital following an operation. north of Eufaula. Jolly said that remodeling 

of the Gem 

THEATRE EQUIPMENT CO. 

also is slated to start soon. 

in 

220 5. POPLAR ST. CHARLOTTE, N. C. 

Dot Lind, technical adviser on shooting 

"Annie Get Your Gun." was here demonstrating 

her marksmanship . Ballet 'Stromboli' Beats 'Hamlet' 

on SELMA, ALA.—Public curiosity outweighed 

Theatre stage four days . . . Travel into the artistic appreciation when "Hamlet" and "INTELLIGENT" 

bayou country, which has been hampered for "Stromboli" played the same dates here recently. 

"Hamlet" played to "fair audiences" 

several weeks by high water, is under way 

Buying and Booking Service 

Theatre dance company was the Pochc 

again. The Bonnet Carre spillway has been at the Wilby, while down the street at the 

closed. 

Walton, ".sellout" signs were posted as crowds 

Exhibitors in town: I. Phillips, Joy Theatre, 

waited to see "Stromboli." 

Moreauville: Roy Pfeiffer, Pfeiffer cir- 

cuit. Baton Rouge; C. Vucovich, Vucovich 

circuit, Pensacola; Larry Lampo, Avalon and 

Boulevard theatres, Jeanerette; Charles and 

John Waterall, Waterall circuit, Prichard, 

MR. DRIVE-IN MANAGER 

Ala.; Lou Langlois, Alamo, New Roads; Bill 

Lighter, Lighter circuit. 

THE HIT OF 1950 

m BHXIST NAMl IN POPCORN 

Maurice J. Artig;ues, general manager of 

The Manley SUPER-STADIUM MODEL POPCORN MACHINE is an 

Allied Theatre Owners of the Gulf States, 

Drive-In. or in conceswith 

said at the close of a directors' meeting that 

speed. Manley man- 

"the membership is urged to refrain from 

arge or small operations. 

showing 'StromboU' and in particular to 

Ixhibilor who is planning 

el 

frown upon the manner in which the distributors 

are attempting to capitalize on un- 

us remind you lo inur 

plans, the STADIUM 

Inspect this machine 

favorable publicity in advertising the production." 

before you buy. 

In addition, Artigues mentioned 

that many independent operators of key situations 

in this territory have gone on record 

against showing the picture. 

PRICES 

MANLEY SUPREME, 

packed in 10 pound can* 

Denies Exhibitors' Plea 

htfrmeticolly soaled. S can 

per coae 

S6.75 

LAKE CHARLES, LA.—William A. Paternosto 

and his wife, exhibitors, were over- 

packed in 100 pound 

MANLEY SUPREME, 

ruled by US. Judge Gaston Louis Porterie 

bag*, per 100 pound* S10.25 

on a motion to dismiss the percentage suits 

light dillorenco in pric. Manl.y flivon you 

brought by Loew's, Inc., and Universal here, 

thai pop» out llullier and biggir — lo cioalo 

a greater ptolit. and more toMtUtd cminvolving 

the Delta and Palace theatres. 

Only Manley give« you the complel* pack- 

What have VOU done today to help secure 


103

XITHEN I TALKED to Lewis Garling, manager 

of the Bama Drive-In near Mobile, 

Ala., he was complaining about the rain. The 

HART BEATS 

concession stand at the 

open air theatre has 

glass sides, and tables 

from which patrons 

command a full view 

of the screen. 

H. T. Brown of the 

Century Theatre in 

Mobile disclosed that 

bills now are changed 

four times weekly at 

the house. He declared 

that the campaign to 

Harry Hart 

effect repeal of the 

federal amusement tax 

Is being waged with determination in his 

area. One important point in the drive, he 

said, is that theatre patrons are being made 

to realize more than ever before that they 

and not the theatremen are the ones who 

pay the tax. 

At the Gidden & Rester Theatres offices, 

Kenneth R. Giddens and Raleigh W. Sharrock 

told me about the 900-car drive-in they 

are building on a site at Route 90 and Azalea 

road. Plans provide for a cottage on the 

grounds for the manager, a concession stand 

which will have glass sides, and an outside 

patio. Twin boxoffices are being built .to 

handle four cars at a time. Extensive grading 

and landscaping will make a thing of 

beauty of the drive-in. It is expected to be 

ready for opening about June 1. 

Mason Curry, formerly an actor in various 

stock companies, is managing the Roxy Tlieatre 

in Mobile. He appeared in one film, 

"The Senator Was Indiscreet." 

J. Eddie Jones still is managing the Roosevelt 

Theatre, a post which he has held about 

ten years. He said that his son Eddie recently 

had recovered from a serious illness. 

Charles Waterall of Prlchard, Ala., is building 

a 1,200-seat theatre there. It is being 

erected next to a house now operated by him. 

It will have a concession stand, a cry room 

and a smoking lounge. Concrete blocks being 

used in the construction of the new theatre 

are being made by Waterall. The house is 

being built with profits from the other 

theatre. 

In addition to the existing federal tax, the 

AMERICAN DESK 

MANUFACTURING COMPANY 

inuiacturers of Theatre Seating 

Mr. W. A. Prewitt, Jr., 223 South Liberty St. 

New Orleans, La. Ph: TULane 1101 

THEATRE SUPPLIES 

DRIVE-IN EQUIPMENT * 

Prompt, Courteous Service 

DIXIE THEATRE SERVICE & SyPPLY CO. 

1014 North Slappey Drive Albany, Ga. 

Phone 3431 — Night Phone 2015 

state tax of 2 per cent and the city tax of 

10 per cent are hurting theatre business in 

Alabama, and every exhibitor in the state is 

being urged to become active in the tax repeal 

fight. 

The three taxes total 32 per cent of the 

price of a theatre ticket, and some must 

be forthcoming if theatre operators are to 

stay in business. 

C. H. Ring, operator of theatres for Negro 

patronage in Mobile, says that the tax load 

is slowly but surely killing the theatre business. 

If the situation continues, he said, 

it will not be long until the goose that lays 

the golden egg is dead. 

James W. Wiggs jr. of the Wakelon Theatre 

at Zebulon, N. C, and his wife have accepted 

a position with Hallmark Productions 

of Wilmington, Ohio. For the last 22 months 

Wiggs has been manager of the Wakelon, 

which is operated by Howell Theatres, Inc., 

Smithfield, N. C. He celebrated his 25th 

birthday March 8 and was to join the Hallmark 

company March 14. 

P. R. Ingraham was in his office in Birmingham 

and told about the drive-in his 

company is building at Knoxville, Tenn. 

R. M. Kennedy, Birmingham, was planning 

a trip to Daytona Beach soon for a week of 

fishing. He played "Stromboli" at his Walton 

Theatre in Selma and did all right with It. 

He's installing glass doors and a new boxoffice 

and modernizing the front of the theatre 

at Ensley. 

Prank Merrits of Community Theatres was 

at home ill, but John Douglas said he was 

improving. 

N. H. Waters jr. of the Water circuit displayed 

blueprints of the enlarged concessions 

stand being built at the Roebuck Drive- 

In, Birmingham. He was getting ready to 

send a bulletin to every manager in the circuit 

telling them to watch the Showmandiser 

section of BOXOFFICE and compete for 

awards. 

David Bowers of the Warrior in Warrior 

was in Birmingham on business when I 

called. Doors to the theatre had been freshly 

varnished. 

D. F. Hembree, manager of the 31 Drive-In, 

Cullman, was at home looking over some baby 

chicks which had just arrived. The 31 Drive- 

In is a 325-car situation and Hembree says 

he plans to build a ramp, house this year. 

Martin Theatres has purchased the 350-car 

Talladega Drive-In at Talladega. John Presley 

will manage it. John Neely has been 

transferred from the Wink Theatre, Dalton, 

Ga., to city manager at Cartersville. Leon 

Jenkins is new manager of the Crescent in 

Dalton. Louis Brackin is new manager of the 

Martin circuit at the Vance in Chipley. J. R. 

Stiles is city manager at Marietta. J. H. 

Smith has been moved from the Bremen at 

Bremen to the Martin at Lafayette, Ala. 

Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Martin will celebrate 

their first wedding anniversary March 25. 

They were married in Athens, Ga. 

Louis Rosenbaum of Muscle Shoals Theatres 

was in his office at the Shoals. The 

chain is building a new 884-seat house in 

Tuscumbia, Ala., expected to open in late 

September or early October. 

S. T. Jackson of the Jackson Theatre, 

Flomaton, Ala., was planning a campaign on 

"Sands of Iwo Jima." 

W. T. Lovelacke of the Highland, Montgomery, 

showed me the set of controls he 

has for air conditioning and heating. Heat 

can be regulated by individual controls as 

well as thermostatic control. 

Relief operator R. J. McDaniel was at the 

Ritz in Brewerton. 

Late shows with colored casts have been 

helping business at the Fort, Port Deposit, 

said Manager W. Herman Gandy. 

R. J. "Hap" Barnes, Montgomery, has been 

a drive-in operator and builder since 1938. 

He also heads the ABC Booking agency in 

Atlanta. He says bad weather hasn't slowed 

drive-in operations too much this winter. 

Barnes operates the Montgomery Drive-In 

along with others in that section. 

Framework of the screen tower was up 

at the new drive-in being built at Prattmont 

by G. C. Coburn and his sons. The concessions 

stand was being finished and the contractor 

was laying off ramps. The concessions 

stand is of marble-faced concrete 

blocks. R. W. Townsend, sound engineer for 

Wil-Kin Theatre Supply, was ready to start 

installation of Motiograph speakers and 

equipment. The airer will be opened about 

May 1. 

John F. Moffett of Moffett Theatres was 

worrying over taxes. He had just returned 

from a business trip to Chicago, where he 

said weather was miserable. 

Hubert Mitchell Plant 

On Profit-Sharing Plan 

HARTSELL, ALA.—Hubert Mitchell Industries, 

Inc., here in the mountains of 

northern Alabama manufactures draperies, 

stage curtains and accessories. The plant is 

neat and the workers take pride in their 

work. H. R. Mitchell, president, says one 

reason for the success of the 23-year-old 

business is that everyone connected with it 

has taken an interest in his work, the customer 

and the details of the finished product. 

Key employes work on a five-year plan, 

enabling them to become a stockholder in 

the plant after five years. Mitchell is an 

oldtime exhibitor himself and knows from 

firsthand experience the problems of the 

theatreman. This firm is a member of the 

National School Service institute and has 

just finished a show at its convention in 

Chicago. 

The firm recently installed a large curtain 

at the University of Kansas Hoch auditorium. 

It measures 46x86 feet and contains 

2,400 yards of cloth. It is operated by 11 

motors with control devices all synchronized, 

to keep the curtains level at all times. The 

job cost about $40,000. 

C. L. Orr is vice-president and J. L. Hicks 

is sales manager. They said an addition 

would be built to the plant this year. 


. . Hugh 

. . . Walter 

. . . Truman 

. . William 

. . Drive-In 

, 

. . Nelson 

. . Bem 

Lines Form for 'Stromboli' 

Opening in New Orleans 

NEW ORLEANS—Double lines formed outside 

the Orpheum Theatre here one hour 

before boxoffice opening for "Stromboli." In 

face of much unfavorable publicity, the picture 

was given a holdover in the 2.000-seat 

RKO Theatre. 

Grosses were de.scribed by House Manager 

Schoenberg as "excellent." Throughout the 

run, "Stromboli" audience has consisted almost 

entirely of women. In line with the 

foreign theme, the Rio, another downtown 

house, opened at the same time with "Frustration," 

a Swedish film. 

Plan Memphis Building 

To House Allied Office 

MEMPHIS—Tentative plans to erect a new 

building on Filmrow here to house local Allied 

unit offices, with rental space to film 

companies and other allied film trade companies, 

are being made, according to E. O. 

Cullins, Midsouth Allied president. Offices 

of the unit now are in the Chisca hotel. A 

site for the proposed building has not yet 

been selected. 

Ronnie Otwell to Post 

BREMEN, GA.—Ronnie Otwell, formerly 

connected with the Bremen Theatre here, 

has returned as manager of the house to 

succeed J. H. Smith, who has been transferred 

to similar duties at the Martin in 

LaFayette, Ala. 

Mule Promotes 'Francis' 

ALEXANDRIA, LA.—In connection with 

the showing of "Francis" at the Don Theatre 

a mule was paraded around town and 

"chatted" with some of the leading people of 

the city, as well as getting her picture in the 

local newspaper. 

JACKSONVILLE 

paramount Division Manager Hugh Owen, 

Atlanta, Manager Clyde Goodsen and 

short subjects Sales Manager Oscar Morgan 

were in for a business confab at the 

local exchange . Martin was a recent 

visitor . . . Theresa Deets has resigned 

as cashier for Paramount. Marion Stowe replaced 

her. 

Jesse Clark is out on a business trip . . . 

"Samson and Delilah" has been doing phenomenal 

business, according to Howard Pettengill, 

who handled the Florida publicity 

campaign . . "Francis" was held over for a 

. 

week by popular demand at the St. Johns 

Theatre. 

Floyd Stowe has resigned as booker for 

Florida State Theatres. Stowe plans to open 

a booking and buying firm. He has been 

in film work for 25 years and has been booker 

for Florida State circuit for seven years. The 

booking and buying firm will handle bookings 

for exhibitors in Florida and .south Georgia. 

Stowe says his store will be open at 2828 

East Lake Shore Blvd. April 1. 

MEMPHIS 

"Two new theatres have been completed and 

put in operation in the Memphis territory. 

A 400-.seat theatre, named the Ro.se. at North 

Crossett. Ark., has been finished and opened 

by C. E. Cooper. The Lincoln. Batesville. 

Miss., has been opened by W. A. Jenkins. 

Both owners will book and buy here and 

have arranged film deliveries and pickups 

with Film Transit. 

Pat Fleming, owner. Gail Theatre, Round 

Pond, Ark., has reopened for business . . . 

Burris Smith, owner, reopened the Skylark 

Drive-In. Pocahontas, Ark., for the season 

J. Leeper, owner, DeQueen Drive- 

In. DeQueen. Ark., reopened his outdoor 

theatre and the Century Drive-In, Lamar 

avenue here, was opened by Maleo Theatres, 

Inc. 

H. E. Wheatley, owner, reopened the Wheatley 

Drive-In at Hot Springs, Ark., and the 

drive-in at North Little Rock was reopened 

by Malco . . . E. O. Cullins. Memphis exhibitor, 

and president of Allied Independent Theatre 

Owners of the Midsouth. returned from 

a business trip to Chicago. 

Bruce Young, manager of the Crittenden. 

West Memphis, has organized a Roy Rogers 

Riders club which meets every Saturday matmee 

at his theatre and sees some Rogers 

films. Bonnie Caffey and Donald Butler, 

young West Memphis fans, were elected boy 

and girl presidents of the club by about 400 

members who assembled at Crittenden last 

Saturday. 

"Marching On," a film with an all-Negro 

cast, was shown at Manassas High school 

Pratt, who recently bought the 

Royal. Light. Ark., from S. D. Tliorn, will 

continue to book and buy on Memphis Filmrow 

and has arranged for pickups and deliveries 

by Film Transit . L. Spicer, 

owner of 71 Drive-In, Fort Smith, was here 

His drive-in is reopened for the season. 

Lloyd Hutchins, Kensett, Ark., has purchased 

the Mel Theatre there and will book 

and buy in Memphis . Theatre, 

Jackson, Tenn., has been reopened by Malco 

Theatres. 

Burris and Henley Smith, brothers, who 

operate the Imperial at Pocahontas, were in 

town . . . Orris Collins, who operates the Capitol 

and Majestic. Paragould. was here with 

news that his new drive-in near Paragould 

is "a dandy." 

W. C. Kroeger, Portageville. Mo., who operates 

the Shannon there and is operating the 

Gem and Joy at Osceola. Ark., on lease, was 

in Memphis booking . . . Other Arkansas exhibitors 

on Filmrow included J. K. Jamerson, 

Joy. Bald Knob; Alvin Tipton. New. Manila. 

Monette and Caraway; Herold Jimer.son. Airway 

at Little Rock and Liberty at North 

Little Rock: Moses Sliman. Murr at O.sceola 

and Lux at Luxora; L. S. Haven sr.. Imperial, 

Forrest City; Terry Axley, New, England, and 

Bill and Bernace Malin, Lura, Augusta. 

Lyle Richmond, Richmond, Senate, Mo 

was here . . . N. B. Fair. Fair. Somervllle; 

G. H. Goff, Rustic. Parsons. Aubrey Webb, 

Webb, Ripley; L. J. Denning, YMCA, Bemls. 

and Amelia Ellis, Mason, Mason, were in 

town from Tennessee . . . Mr. and Mrs. W. T. 

Ellis. Ellis. Cleveland, Miss., were booking 

and shopping here. 

Jack Watson, Palace, Tunica; Howard C. 

Langford, Lam at Lambert and Folly at 

Marks; Paul Myer, Center. Lexington; J. A. 

Owen, Amory. Amory, and T. E. Williams, 

Ty.son, Clarksdale, were on Filmrow from 

Mississippi . Towler, manager for 

Eagle Lion, was in Fort Smith on business 

... At 20th-Fox there was a minor flu epidemic 

with Mrs. Ethel Wolfe. Mrs. Grace 

Law and Mrs. Lena Southerland. all of the 

inspection department, ill. 

Mrs. Thomas D. Eubanks, former cashier 

at 20th-Fox. and her husband are parents of 

a son Thomas D. Jr.. born at MethodLst hospital 

Tom Young, manager. 20th-Fox; 

. . . M. A. Lightman sr.. president. Malco. and 

Herb Kohn. assistant to Lightman, returned 

from a trip to Chicago . Hill. New 

York exploitation man. was here working on 

the film "Francis" for Universal. 

Manager Arthur Groom, Loew's State, and 

the Press-Scimitar are conducting a campaign 

to find the mid.south's most charming 

mother and daughter in connection with 

"Nancy Goes to Rio," opening next week at 

the State. Mothers and daughters are invited 

to send their pictures to the newspaper. From 

these pictures 12 pairs will be .selected to 

appear on the stage at Loew's State. The winners 

in this contest will receive Savings bonds 

and be entered in MGM's national conte.st 

the prize for which is a 39-day cruLse to 

Rio aboard a luxury liner. 


petition cards from National Screen Servire? 

Do it today. 

Now Distributing 

NOW! Better Vision from (V{RY Seot 

CYCl@RAMIC 

In M.n,] hi. Film Atoa 

Willo loi Dotalla 

TRI-STATE THEATRE SUPPLY 

320 So. Socond, M«mphu. T*iui. 

—

. . George 

. . Brandt's 

. . Brandt's 

. . Hedy 

. . . Peter 

. . Raymond 

MIAMI 

'The story of Miami's swiftly growing foreign 

trade is being told in motion pictures by 

the Propeller club of the university. The films 

will be circulated throughout the country. 

Shots in color will show the harbor, the handling 

of small vessels in the Caribbean and 

South American trade and large coastwise 

ships that bring freight and passengers from 

eastern ports. A large part of the film will 

deal with the aviation industry and Miami's 

place as the nation's leading port of entry 

for international air passenger and freight 

traffic. The film is expected to make its debut 

in May on National Maritime day. 

Al Weiss has scheduled Basil Rathbone as 

the next big screen headliner for his stage 

show at the Olympia . . . Last play in the 

Variety Children's Theatre series was "Cinderella." 

presented at a Saturday morning 

Olympia matinee. The town is very Cinderella-minded 

with the Walt Disney film 

concluding a lengthy run at Claughton's Embassy, 

and being moved into the Royal, normally 

a double-feature house, for a holdover, 

Lanny Ross, who filled an Olympia date 

recently, was pictured in the News drinking 

a cup of coffee with Manager Al Weiss, as a 

toast to the 35th anniversary of the theatre's 

operation. 

Paramount admitted free at its Sheridan, 

Paramount and Beach theatres couples who 

could show a marriage license stating they 

had been married less than a year. Free admissions 

were honored during the run of 

It's 

New! 

It's 

Beautiful! 

It's 

Comfortable! 

It's 

Economical! 

Spiing Edge Seats .. Face Padded Backs 

Cast Iron Standards .. Ball Bearing Hinges 

for complete information write: 

SOUTHERN DESK COMPANY 

Theatre Seating 

Division 

P. 0. Box 630 HICKORY, N. C. 

"Dear Wife" Flamingo will bring 

. 

the run of "The Red Shoes" to a close soon, 

to open "Devil in the Flesh." The former film 

has played for two winter seasons at this 

house to excellent patronage. 

Watching films being made and making 

them appeals to Miamians, judging by the 

popularity of the screen tests shot each night 

at the Manufacturers' Exposition just concluded 

here. More than 300 responded to the 

call for candidates to take part in the tests. 

From these were selected 18 who did their 

acting in pairs before audiences. Amusement 

editors of the News and Herald, with Fred 

Koch, drama department of the university, 

were judges. Winners received $100 in cash 

or a trip to New York with a university drama 

group. 

Latest count on Saturday children's matinees 

found Wometco offering special shows at 

ten of its houses. Paramount at six of its 

theatres, Claughton at three and at two independents 

. 

Hoover, Paramount general 

manager here, lunched with AGVAers 

Henry Dunn, Jack Irving and amusement 

Editor Paul Brunn of the Florida Sun. 

Mrs. E. N. Claughton, local exhibitor, told 

friends she thought at first it was a joke 

when she picked up her telephone the other 

day and the voice on the other end of the 

wire said, "This is Walt Disney." Disney explained 

that since he had given six years 

of his hfe to the film animation of "Cinderella," 

he felt it was his "baby." Having 

heard that the run here had broken all house 

records, he wanted to congratulate Mrs. 

Claughton. The Embassy engagement was so 

successful that results are being featured in 

national ads carried by the film company. 

Mrs. Claughton, who is acting president of 

the women's division of the Miami Chamber 

of Commerce, materially assisted in the success 

of Miami's first Business, Industry and 

Education day. It is to become an annual 

affair . . 'Variety's Children's hospital was 

. 

to be dedicated Sunday (19). Dr. Arthur H. 

Weiland was elected first president of the 

newly appointed medical staff. Patients will 

be admitted March 22. 

A copy of the January 9 issue of Life magazine 

was good for an admission to "The 

Bicycle Tliief" at Wometco's Mayfair Art 

Theatre . 

Roosevelt, which opened 

"The Bicycle Thief" film here, advertised it 

as the "uncut and uncensored" version after 

the Johnston office ban became public . . . 

Warners picture executive Harold Rodner is 

vacationing in Miami Beach with his wife. 

Emil Boreo is being cared for in a private 

home under AG'VA supervision. Those who 

might wish to send gifts of remembrance to 

the performer who participated in countless 

benefits, were invited to do so through local 

amusement columns . 

Lamarr has 

arrived at Boca Raton. She is in the cast of 

"'Visa," which MGM is filming in Cuba and 

the Everglades. 

Miami Beach again was in the newsreels 

with a "fashions for fun and sun" sequence 

shot at the Roney Plaza. The Warners Pathe 

film opened at Claughton's Embassy and 'Variety 

and was mentioned in advertising . . . 

Henry Dunn, national administrative secretary 

of AG'VA, flew to Havana with local 

representative Jerry Hirsch for meetings with 

officials of the Cuban artists' groups. They 

will try to formulate a working agreement 

between both unions for a more equitable exchange 

of talent between the U.S. and Cuba 

deRose, recent vacationer here, left 

for Hollywood film work. 

Wometco's Plaza, Miami Beach, departs 

from its screen policy for a week and goes 

legitimate. The stage play, "Every Girl's Desire," 

will be presented for one week with 

Saturday and Sunday matinees . . . 

Statewide 

Florida premiere of Warners' "The Hasty 

Heart" has opened. First to show the film 

in the state are the Colony and Florida here, 

the Florida, Fort Lauderdale; Strand, Key 

West; Sunrise, Fort Pierce; Paramount, Palm 

Beach; Arcade and Florida, Hollywood; State, 

Dania; Florida, West Palm Beach; Lake, 

Lake Worth; Delray, Delray Beach, and Dixie 

Crystal, Clewiston. 

The independent Normandy advertised a 

preview, advising Monday's patrons to see the 

last featured showing of "Sands of Iwo Jima" 

and stay on to see the next attraction, 

"Ambush" . . . Bernstein's Little River and 

downtown Dixie offer a 21-cent adult admission 

matinee except on Saturdays and Sundays 

. Nye of Wometco's Capitol 

staff has friends baffled on when to wish him 

happy birthday. He was born on February 29. 

Mitchell Wolfson, Wometco co-owner, was 

one of the principal speakers and moderator 

of several open forums of the motion picture 

confab at the Drake hotel in Chicago. Bourke 

of the Herald thought it a sure thing that 

Wolfson would instigate a discussion of some 

of the elements which indicate that the present 

setup of "television versus motion pictures" 

should be rephrased to read "television 

with motion pictures." The film business history, 

according to Bourke, is filled with examples 

where "threats" to the industry have 

been converted into new gains. 

NOISELESS 

Popcorn Bags 

No rustle, no crackle, no pop. 

1/2 lb. size @ $2.75 per 1,000, 

Short % lb. size @ $3.50 per 1,000. 

1 lb. size @ $3.75 per 1,000, 

IV2 lb. size @ $3.90 per 1,000, 

All lor immediate shipment except short % lb. 

size available about March 15. Prices in case 

lots ol 4,000. Smaller lots 20c per 1,000 more. 

AUTOMATIC POPCORN cartons 

Bottom flaps lock when box is opened. 

No. 10 size @ $7.50 per 1,000 

25,000 orders @ $7.25 per 1,000 

No. 215 (smcdl 10c size) @ $7.15 per 1.000 

25,000 orders @ $S.90 per 1,000 

All f.o.b. St. Louis subject to market change 

without notice. Ask for pricelist of Rush 

Hour, Silver Hulless and Golden Hulless 

Popcorns. Also 8 kinds cartons, 26 kinds popcorn 

bags. Star Popcorn Machines & Food 

Serving Equipment. 

Samples ol Noiseless bags, Automatic cartons 

or popcorn sent upon request. 

PRONTY SEED & GRAIN CO. 

620 North 2nd St. SI. Louis 2, Mo. 

la oui 7Sth year—Popcorn Processors 

— 

lOG 


. . Ruby 

. . . Manager 

Cold Hurls Business 

At Atlanta Houses 

ATLANTA—Cold and rain hurt trade at 

first run theatres here. "Chain Lightninp" 

at the Fox carded 115 per cent, while "Nancy 

Goes to Rio" at Loew's Grand registered a 

similar total. "Bagdad" at the Paramount 

chalked up 110 per cent. 


Fox—Chain Lightning (WB). 115 

Loew's Grand—Nancy Goes to Rio (MOMl IIS 

Paramount—Bagdad (U-I) 110 

Rhodes—Mrs. Mike (UA) IC.^ 

Roxy—The Outlaw (RKO), 2nd d t. wk... . 107 

Kiddy Show Experiment 

Draws Big Attendance 

MIAMI—Bernstein's downtown Dixie has 

inaugurated the first of its Saturday children's 

matinees. Manager Robert Clyman 

says that the experiment increased attendance 

ten-fold and the turnout for the first 

matinee was "exceptional." 

Clyman concentrated on seeing that word 

of the policy change was well publicized. He 

had circulars distributed over the downtown 

section, branching out into residential parts 

of the city and, as he put it, "practically 

covering the town." This publicity drew attendance 

from far-flung districts. 

Merchants cooperated with merchandise 

for prizes. Free ice cream, soft drinks and 

toys were given out and children were told to 

keep their theatre stubs. Lucky numbers 

won prizes to be found in various nearby 

stores. The stores were not mentioned by 

name but the children had to go on a canvassing 

tour to locate the right merchant. 

All stores, however, were located around the 

block so that children ran no traffic hazards. 

Encouraged by this success, Clyman is busy 

planning even more exciting Saturdays for 

Miami's small fry, and believes the matinee 

will be established as a permanent policy. 

BIRMINGHAM 

JJ E. Holmes is new manager of Waters' den, Gadsden: L. D. Quarles, Spring, SpringvlUe, 

and Mr. Harris, Lake. Guntersville. 

Shades Mountain Drlve-In, which has 

reopened for the season. He formerly was 

District Manager Emil Bernstecker, booker 

an assistant manager at Pair Park and Roebuck 

drive-ins. The first 600 women 

Jimmy Harri.son and Jimmy Redd, all of 

patrons 

on opening 

Wilby-Kincey, Atlanta, visited here while 

night were given free orchids. 

Other 

on a tour of the circuit, recently taken 

members of the staff include Betty 

over 

Ruth Hooks, 

by 

cashier: Raymond 

Paramount and now operated by 

Lyons, conce.ssion 

chief, and W. C. Mathews, projec- 

Wilby-Klncey . . . R. M. Kennedy, former 

district 

tionist . . . Don Waters, manager 

manager for W-K and now an Independent 

exhibitor, was vacationing In Day- 

at the 

Roebuck, was off .several days with a shouldetona 

Beach, Fla. 

ailment. 

Fairfield Theatre gave a free television set 

to one of its patrons in celebration of its 

first anniversary March 1-8. Manager J. H. 

Waters reports the stunt was successful and 

drew favorable comment and interest from 

patrons Gorham, Central Park 

cashier, has resigned and has been replaced 

Mrs. Mozell Shepherd, 

by Lois Howell . . . 

Norwood cashier, was off duty for some time 

due to the illness of her child. 

Rosa Pitts, secretary to Francis S. Falkenburg, 

manager of the Alabama, was spotlighted 

in the Birmingham Age-Herald. 

Chosen as the paper's secretary of the week. 

Miss Pitts was featured with a two-column 

picture and a story . . . Mac Russell, former 

assistant manager of the Strand here and 

now manager of the Tennessee in Knoxvillc, 

was visited by his parents recently. They 

were accompanied by Dolly Bowens, Lyric 

cashier. 

Alabama exhibitors visiting here included 

Virgil Harrell, Fox, Peterson: Mike Namie. 

II. .M. Addison, EL publicist, was in town 

after a long ab.sence. He was working on 

"The Sundowners" at the Strand and "Guilty 

of Treason" and "The Story of G.I. Joe" at 

the Melba. Manager J. W. McDanal Is planning 

a special campaign for "The Ernie Pyle 

Story" and held a special screening March 

18 for all local clergymen on "Trea.son." Mrs. 

Be.ssie Curl, Royal cashier and wife of Harry 

M. Curl, district manager for Community 

Theatres, visited Mrs. Doris Addi.son at the 

Addisons' new home in Florida. 

Cecil Harwell, Lyric manager, returned 

from a visit with his mother and friends 

in Tuscaloosa. Bill Tatum, assistant manager 

at the Lyric, was off .several days because 

of illne.ss 

known of 

. . . Martin L. Ireland, well 

MPMO here several years before 

going to California, died at the home of a 

daughter in Washington recently, according 

to word received here. 

.Alabama Theatre held the first 

of a series 

of sneak previews Wednesday il5). The attraction 

was "Francis," and recordings were 

made of the audience's laughter for u.se on 

radio spots prior to the film opening Thursday 

Ben Hill and Al Burke of 

(23) . . . U-I were here working on the "Francis" 

campaign. Burke and Assistant Manager 

Bert Smith entertained a pre.ss-radio party 

to map the campaign. 

Pensacola Appeals Ruling 

On City Amusement Tax 

PENSACOLA, FLA.—This city is appealing 

an antiamusement tax ruling to the state 

supreme court. Judge K. K. Fabisinski ruled 

that amusement and cigaret tax proceeds 

cannot be used to build an auditorium on 

Palafox Wharf. 

The suit against the city was brought by 

Lonnie Fillinghim as an individual property 

owner and taxpayer. His suit .sought to 

ban use of the amusement and cigaret taxes 

for financing the auditorium. Work is under 

way preparing the pier for the auditorium. 

Pascagoula Airer Opens 

PASCAGOULA, MISS— Jackson county's 

first drive-in, the Carview, was opened recently. 

It has a capacity of 350 cars and Ls 

equipped with RCA sound. It is located on the 

Mobile shortcut near the old county airport. 

Elite. Decatur: Mr.s. H. P. Wliatley. Arabian, 

Arab: J. S. Yerby, Calera. Calera: H. N. 

Castleberry, Bama, Hackleburg: H. P. Lawrence. 

Fox, Blountsville: Benton Pierce. Gadsbi-Car 

Speakers Installed 

DEFtmiAK SPRINGS, FLA.— E. L. Goodwin, 

manager of the Hiway 90 Drive-In, Is 

installing in-car speakers. When the theatre 

was opened not so long ago it was not 

possible to secure this latest type of speaker. 

TAX REI'KAL IJOOTII — More than 

6.000 BirminBham filmuoers signed 

amusemt-nt tax repeal requests to concressmen 

after Manager Francis .S. Kallienburg 

set up this booth in the lobby of 

tlie .Mabama Theatre. Other tlieatres in 

the area followed the .Mabama's lead In 

colleotinB the repeal petitions. Shown 

above aeecptinK the signed blanks is Rod 

Champion. 

Bert Smith reports plans nearing completion 

for the Alabama Mickey Mou.se club'.s 

annual Easter Egg hunt. It will be cosponsored 

this year by Pizitz Departme.nt 

store. The event last year attracted a record 

attendance of 10,000 kids in Avondale park 

Francis Falkenburg Is cooperating 

with the Girl Scouts for the showing 

of "Women of Tomorrow." Letters are 

being sent to all .scouts and scout leaders, 

urging them to attend. A special .scout booth 

will be set up In the lobby. 

N. A. Kriel. Ritz projectionist. Is seriously 

ill in Jefferson ho.spltal . . . Smith Rumble. 

Homewood booth operator. Ls ill at his former 

home in Georgia, and S. W. Whatley, Ensley 

projectionist, is still off becau.se of illness . . . 

Mrs. W. H. Neal jr., wife of the Woodlawn 

operator. Is recovering at her home after 

The father of Leo Nation, 

an illne.ss . . . 

Alabama operator, suffered a stroke recently, 

and the mother of Prank J. Emerson. Royal 

projectionist, has been 111. 

Sylvania Drive-In Begun 

SYLVANIA, GA. — Construction has been 

started on a drlve-ln for Mrs. Joe Larlscy 

and son Edgar Larl.>icy. To be located on 

Highway 301. two and a half miles .south of 

town. 


— 

Cowpokes in Full Regalia Jam Trail 

For Roy Rogers Day Kiddy Matinee 

MIAMI — Harold Watson, manager of 

Claughton's Trail Theatre, Coral Gables, is an 

old hand at children's Saturday matinees, 

but he was scarcely prepared for the response 

from a recent Roy Rogers day. Children of 

all ages and sizes jammed the house to the 

rafters. Every last one appeared in costume, 

with the larger percentage in full regalia. 


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There were so many contestants for the $5 

prize for best costume, that they were judged 

a stagefull at a time. 

Watson himself wore blue jeans, spurs, 

sheriffs star, big hat and gun holster. Stationed 

at the entrance he "checked the firearms" 

of the small fry (there were plenty 

of girl cowboys, too) to make sure they were 

"unloaded." Watson mentions that he was 

not altogether kidding since several hundred 

cap pistols can create considerable confusion. 

Watson first conceived the idea for the 

Roy Rogers matinee when a Miami Herald 

reporter visited the Trail one Saturday morning 

and was so impressed by the number of 

kids queued up waiting to get in, that he 

decided to make a Sunday newspaper story 

of it. Watson laid plans accordingly. Three 

days before the event he visited neighborhood 

schools, making announcements to 

teachers and classes of the forthcoming Roy 

Rogers matinee and costume contest. 

Jack Anderson's feature in the Herald's 

Sunday Magazine carried the seven-column 

head: Junior Boots-and-Saddle Fad Jingles 

Cash Registers. The picture story stated that 

Miami had become the rootinest, tootinest, 

shootinest frontier town west of Biscayne 

Bay, and went to to describe the hundreds 

of "tough hombres" stampeding the Trail. 

Anderson further pointed out that neighborhood 

houses have always done well with 

the western soap opera on Saturdays, but 

nowadays the show isn't entirely on the 

screen. It's partly in the audience which 

pours through lobbies, a sea of bobbing tengallon 

hats, with jingling spurs, candy cigarets 

dangling from little lower lips and cheeks 

swollen with "chewing tobacco" gum. 

Theatre chain spokesmen, according to 

Anderson, credit the increase in the popularity 

of westerns, particularly in audience 

participation, to improved films and development 

of new heroes not only on the screen 

but on radio and television. 

That this western angle is a popular one 

with the small fry is evidenced, at least in the 

case of the Trail, by the fact that children 

continue to carry out the illusion by habitually 

addressing the manager as "Sheriff." 

Nor were the costumes which the children 

donned for the Trail event sketchy ones. Many 

were elaborate and presumably expensive. 

The juvenile audience chose the winner by 

applause, a 3-year-old, loaded with paraphernalia, 

who won hands down. 

Watson believes the popularity of the west- 

4?a^ 0iJ^^

. . 

. . . Fletcher 

VANCOUVER 

lâve Griesdorf, Odeon general manager, was 

here on an inspection trip and made 

changes in the Vancouver first run setup. 

The downtown Plaza will play day-and-date 

with suburban Fraser Theatre, doing away 

with the Plaza and Hastings first run setup. 

The east side Hastings will play action and 

cowboy subsequent runs . . . Five Odeon theatres 

will open Good Friday with "Cinderella" 

to take advantage of the Easter holidays and 

the kiddy trade. Griesdorf left for Chicago 

to attend the 20th-Fox sales meeting. 

"Stromboli" will have its Canadian premiere 

in a Vancouver neighborhood, the 770- 

seat Bay. The large circuits, Famous Players 

and Odeon, turned thumbs down on the production. 

Ben Chechik. manager of the Bay, 

said that after seeing the picture, he was 

certain "there is nothing to corrupt anyone's 

morals." This is the first time since the Bay 

opened in 1938 that it has had a first run 

picture. "Stromboli" also will play the Fox 

in Victoria, a small seater, which will op6n 

day-and-date with Vancouver. 

Vancouver amusement unions will be host 

to the lATSE executive board late this month 

... A theatre cashier was warned by telephone 

that she would be the victim of a 

holdup. Irene Plante, cashier at the Studio 

here, said she was called to the phone while 

eating at a nearby cafe. A male voice said: 

"Don't be alarmed when I call around and 

show you a gun. It will be a holdup." Detectives 

waited in the theatre but nothing 

happened. Mike Goldin is Studio manager. 

There are three drive-ins open in British 

Columbia, the earliest the outdoor theatres 

have opened since they started. They are 

Cascades and Lougheed at Vancouver and 

the Boyd Drive-In, Kelowna. Penticton, Kamloops 

and Vernon will open in April. 

Vancouver first run boxoffices have taken 

a big drop in the last month. Little or no 

decline was noted in the neighborhoods, 

which indicates patrons are passing up the 

first runs with their higher admissions and 

waiting for the picture to come to the suburbans 

where they can see the shows at 

half the first run price. Lack of employment 

is one of the chief causes, as is increased 

transportation cost. 

. . . 

Bill Williams, former manager of the 

Marks, Oshawa, Ont.. is back on the 

Famous 

coast 

looking for a new connection 

Players has installed new seats in the Cinema 

. . . Jack Barron of the Grand, Calgary, will 

open his new 1.000-seater in Calgary in September. 

Barron says he has no connection 

with the new theatre being built at North 

Vancouver by Clarence Dowsley. 

Bob Holm and Victor Brewer, local projectionists, 

are in charge of the construction of 

the new drive-in near Chilliwack, B. C. Owners 

are "Hsman & Mcintosh of Chilliwack. It 

will open in May with a 500-car capacity . 

The International Cinema interrupted film 

showings for a week to show on stage "There 

Goes "Yesterday," Canadian musical revue, 

which played to good buslne.ss. 

. . . Three 

Dave Griesdorf, Odeon general 

seater . . . 

manager, said the chain would start work 

on the new 2,000-seat Odeon to be erected 

on Jasper avenue at Edmonton 

theatres in this section still are closed. They 

are the York, Victoria: Music Box, Vancouver, 

and Lonsdale, North Vancouver. Several other 

theatres are up for sale . . . Local night clubs 

are featuring Chico Marx at the Cave and 

Louis Armstrong and his band at the Palomar 

Supper club. Both are playing to fair 

crowds. 

FORT WILLIAM 

The Odeon here recently rented out the 

theatre to the Kinsmen club for the stage 

show, "The Manhattan Trio," at $2.50 per 

seat. This show was one of the Celebrity 

series run every fall and winter by the Kinsmen 

... At a recent meeting of the Lakehead 

Exhibitors Ass'n, Len McGulre was 

elected president and Nestor Novak, secretary. 

Retiring officers were F. Tickell, president, 

and Lloyd Palmer, vice-president. 

The Capitol had an attractive front for 

"Samson and Delilah," using a large 24-sheet 

cutout on the top of the marquee and pillars 

under the marquee. Every patron was given 

a souvenir program put out at no cost to the 

theatre by advertisers . . . The Orpheum is 

doing fine with its dinnerware giveaway and 

second run double features. 

Business at the Lakehead is far from good 

There has been a lot of talk about several 

projects opening up but so far they have just 

been talk. There is much unemployment here. 

Radio Bingo Hearing Set 

MONTREALr—The CBC board of governors 

.set March 25 as the day on which it will 

consider in public se.ssion any further representations 

in favor or in opposition to a 

restriction on broadcasting of bingo games 

It will meet in Ottawa March 24. 25. Last 

month the board deferred a decision regarding 

a ban on bingo broadcasts. 


Screen Coating anil Masking Paint, r 


WINNIPEG 

•Tho Winnipeg Film Board of Trade has 

elected Myer Nackinison, RKO, president, 

succeeding Abe Feinsteln. Syl Gunn was 

named vice-president. Dutch Levitt, .secretary, 

and Wolfe Blankstein. fire marshal with 

Feinstein as deputy. Named to the credit 

committee were I. Levitt, A. G. Levy and 

Feinsteln. 

Roth.stcin Theatres is reported to be planning 

to start a drive-in in Yorkton this 

spring. Rothsteln now operates two indoor 

theatres there. 

The t'Inema Center Bowling league i.s entering 

its fourth quarter with 20th-Fox and 

Monogram tied for the lead with three victories 

each. Fox was winner of the first 

quarter standings. WB of the second and Columbia 

of the third. Averages include: Mcn'.s 

and women's high, A. Smith and A. Borodosky: 

high average, J. Hainstock and Borodosky. 

Captains are N. Simpson. Monogram 

team: S. Harris, Empire-Universal: S. Gutnik. 

International: A. Lowe. WB: M. Silver. 

Columbia: T. Huber, Paramount: P. Sellwood, 

RKO, and G. Clubb, 20th-Fox 

Richard Miles reports approxmiatrl 

will be spent remodeling the Rio l. 

which recently was converted into an A-picture 

key run situation. The Rio cooling system 

will be modernized, renovations will bo 

made in the auditorium and restrooms, and 

a complete new entrance will be constructed 

Markle, who started his career 

in Winnipeg as a radio producer and became 

a succe.ss as a producer of radio dramas for 

the CBC and later the Columbia network in 

New York, recently signed a contract with 

MGM as an a.ssociate producer. Markle was 

signed by Dore Schary. executive in charge 

of MGM production, with the understanding 

he will be given time to ab.sorb the trade 

tricks of film fabrication before assuming 

full production reins alone. 

Talmud Torah day school in Winnipeg, 

which features the only Children's Tlieatre 

in Canada, presented a Purim pageant Sunday, 

March 5, In the Playhouse Theatre. More 

than 100 children took part in the colorful 

pageant which depicted the Book of Esther 

to a capacity audience. The Thank.sglving 

program, which celebrates the liberation of 

the Jews from the tyrant Haman centuries 

ago, aUo presented Rabbi Milton Aron, who 

spoke on the new state of Israel. 

Screens — Arc Lamps — Rectifiers — Lenses — Carbons — Theatre Chairs 

J. M. RICE & CO. 

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COMPLETE SOUND SYSTEMS 

C. Birks and C. Nelson have opened the 

Arch Theatre in Vauxhall. Alta. It's a 325- 

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. . . Manager 

. . The 

. . The 

. . For 

. . General 

on AW A 

'There is yet no word from the Canadian 

Broadcasting Corp. about a television studio 

for the capital city here, although two 

outlets have been assigned to Montreal and 

one channel for Toronto, all of which the 

CBC will operate on its own . board 

of governors of the Canadian Broadcasting 

Corp. has decided to hold a further meeting 

to hear representations in connection with 

the radio-bingo question. The Motion Picture 

Theatres Ass'n of Ontario is strongly opposed 

to such broadcasts and will have a 

representative at the meeting which is scheduled 

for March 24. 25 in Ottawa. 

A house committee on radio and television 

has been appointed from among the members 

of the parliament to deal with TV prospects 

and other subjects. The committee has 

a personnel of 25 members of the House of 

Commons . Community Film council 

has sent lists of film features suitable for 

juveniles to all local theatre managers with 

the recommendation that the pictures be 

booked for Saturday afternoon shows. The 

list includes no less than 400 films. 

Manager Jack Gibson held "The Chiltern 

Hundreds" for a third week at the South 

Glebe, this British picture giving promise of 

being as successful as "Tight Little Island," 

which recently had eight weeks there ... In 

spite of contrary weather, "Samson and Delilah" 

had a big second week at the famous 

Players' Regent at advanced prices. "All the 

King's Men" also earned a second week at 

the 20th Century Elgin, where Manager Ernie 

Warren is cashing in on an effective promotion 

campaign. 

Ray Tubman, district manager of Famous 

Players Canadian Corp., is expected back 

from Florida in another ten days when the 

Ottawa Theatre Managers Ass'n will get busy 

on the special benefit show in aid of the 

Toronto Variety School for Crippled Boys 

Henry Marshall of the renovated 

Regent took time out March 9 to celebrate 

his birthday, this being his first diversion 

in weeks because of the extensive 

reconstruction work on the theatre. 

Fourth Screen Is Ruined 

By Hamilton Vandals 

TORONTO—Lou Rosefield, proprietor of 

the attractive Westdale at nearby Hamilton, 

has been having his troubles with patrons. 

He has just installed a plastic-moulded screen 

at a cost of $375, to make the fifth newscreen 

he has had to put in over a period 

of four years because of a destructive element 

in the theatre's crowds. The last one 

was destroyed by juveniles with slingshots. 

The vandalism has reached the point where 

Rosefield has advertised a $100 reward for 

information to the arrest and conviction of 

any person causing damage in the Westdale. 

The other morning Rosefield. who is a 

director of the Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n 

of Ontario, found that 14 theatre seats had 

been slashed by miscreants. Several weeks 

ago the theatre was also entered by thieves 

who secured a considerable quantity of merchandise 

from the candy counter and 

smashed office and lobby furniture and equipment. 

— 

— 

'Hundreds' 11 Weeks 

Sets Toronto Mark 

TORONTO—"The Chiltern Hundreds" continued 

through an 11th week at the Odeon 

Hyland to establish a clear record for the 

season here. "The Heiress" was going well 

in its third week at the Eglinton and Victoria. 

Held for a second week were the following: 

"Young Man With a Horn" at the 

Nortown and University, "When Willie Comes 

Marching Home" at Shea's and "Ambush" at 

the Uptown. The leader among the new 

pictures was "Montana" at the big Imperial. 


Biltmore — Prisoner oi Shark Island (20th-Fox); 

Berlin Correspondent (20ih-Fox) 95 

Hyland—The Chiltern Hundreds (EL), 11th wk 90 

Imperial—Montana (WB) - 115 

Loews—Malaya (MGM) 110 

Odeon and Fcnrlawn—Guilty of Treason (IFD) 95 

Sheas—When Willie Comes Marching Home 

(20ih-Fox), 2nd wk 100 

livoli and Capitol-White Heat (WE); The Lady 

Takes a Sailor (WB) 105 

University and Nortown Young Man With a Horn 

(WB). 2nd wk - 95 

Uptown—Ambush (MGM), 2nd wk 85 

Victoria and Eglinton-The Heiress (Para), 3rd wk. 95 

'Boundaries' Is Good 

In Eleventh Week 

VANCOUVER—Business was spotty with 

average or below in most theatres. "Bride 

for Sale" at the Orpheum and "Lost Boundaries" 

in its nth week at the Studio were 

leaders. "Samson and Delilah" was out after 

two weeks at the Strand. 

Capitol—East Side. West Side (MGM) Fair 

Cmema—Bombers Moon (20th-Fox) Average 

Orpheum—Bride lor Sale (RKO) - — Good 

Paradise ^Mark ol the Gorilla (Col); Kazan 

(Col) 

Fair 

Plaâ and Hasungs—South Sea Sinner (U-I) Fair 

Strand—Samson and Deliloh (Pctra), 2nd wk Fair 

State—Bring 'Em Back Alive (RKO), reissue, 

plus stage show _ Moderate 

Studio—Lost Boundaries (IFD), Uth wk Good 

Vogue—Adam and Evelyne (EL).. Fcdr 

"High' Tops Edmonton; 

Others Excellent 

EDMONTON—Cecil B. DeMiUe's "Samson 

and Delilah" completed two weeks at FPC's 

Empress and pulled to capacity through the 

whole run. Manager E. C. Ethridge reported 

patrons were "more than satisfied" with the 

Paramount epic, screened at roadshow prices, 

Capitol—Twelve O'Clock High 

(.iUth-Fox) 

Tremendous 

Riaho—Criss-Cross (U-1) - Excellent 

Empress—Samson and Delilah (Para) Excellent 

No More Dimouts Likely, 

Ontario Official Says 

TORONTO—Ontario exhibitors are looking 

forward to a next winter of complacent theatre 

operation as a result of the announcement 

by Chairman R. H. Saunders of the 

Ontario hydroelectric commission that dimout 

regulations will be unnecessary in the 

1950-51 season. The promise came after the 

signing of an agreement by Canadian and 

U.S. authorities for increased use of the flow 

over Niagara Falls for hydroelectric purposes 

and the opening of increased generating 

equipment in Ontario. There are practically 

no power restrictions in Ontario at the present 

time. 

The period of daylight saving wiU be cut 

down this year by practically two months in 

Ontario cities and towns because of the improved 

hydroelectric situation. The municipal 

councils are adopting bylaws which establish 

summer time from April 30 to September 24. 

TORONTO 

Tt was an exciting moment late Saturday 

for Manager Tom Daley and employes of 

the Imperial, particularly cashier Barbara 

Cormier, when a thief snatched the cash 

box containing $1,000 as it was being moved 

from the front boxoffice to the office. The 

robber disappeared in the gaping crowd. 

Earlier in the evening the most of the receipts 

had been safely placed in the office 

safe. 

The tea hour is observed at the Odeon 

Humber. Manager Holmes invites all the 

women in the audience at 4 p. m. to have a 

spot of beverage on the house during an intermission 

. Manager C. S. Chaplin 

of United Artists was host of a cocktail 

party at the Variety clubrooms in honor of 

Ronald Alcorn, producer of "Johnny Holiday." 

The invitations read: "Ronny Alcorn 

is a swell guy. He has had a fabulous career 

and I know you are going to get a lot of 

pleasure out of meeting him." The guests 

did. 

Over at the Famous Players' Village in 

suburban Forest Hill Village, the Thursday 

night audience had a sneak preview of "Dear 

Wife" . "The Gay Lady." Manager 

Jim Hardiman appropriately staged a spring 

fashion show on the stage of the Odeon at 

London. The Elmwood in London, which has 

gone arty, had a nice engagement of "Shoe- 

Shine" under the new policy. 

Because of the death of Sam Glazer, Chairman 

Gurston Allen of the motion picture 

branch of the Toronto Board of Trade announced 

that the organization's meeting, 

scheduled for the same day as the funeral 

of the Columbia sales manager, was postponed 

until April 11 . . Miss M. Habick, 

. 

once popular figure in local film circles, has 

taken leave of absence from her more recent 

post of manager of the Grand at Gait to 

enjoy a rest. "Min" has been temporarily 

replaced by Tom Murray from the Capitol, 

Guelph, where Verd Marriott has taken over 

the management. 

Ben Okun, chief of Biltmore Theatres, is 

busy with a new construction job at Yonge 

and Gerrard streets, the circuit's second 

downtown unit, not far from the first Biltmore 

here . . . "The Red Shoes" is having 

a run at the Kent in Windsor. 

Barnett E. Laxer. Toronto 

Circuit Partner, Dead 

TORONTO—Barnett E. Laxer, 51. died at 

his home in Chapiin Crescent here from a 

heart ailment. Pi-ominent in many Jewish 

activities, he was a partner of B. S. Okun in 

Biltmore Theatres, which operates a circuit 

from Kingston to Sault Ste. Marie, and was 

once identified with the organized independent 

exhibitor movement. He was a member 

of the Toronto Variety tent, immediate past 

president of the Herzl Zion club, and was 

on the executive boards of B'nai B'rith. Canadian 

Jewish Congress, Toronto Zionist 

council. Histadrut and other organizations. 

Siu-vivors include his wife, a daughter, two 

brothers and a sister. 

Two days previously

20 Per Cent of Candy 

Is Sold by Theatres 

MONTREAL—Canadians, who spent $5,163.- 

000 last year on candy and nuts in theatre 

lobbies, made 20 per cent of the total candy 

purchases in the country from concessions 

stands in theatres, according to a survey recently 

completed here. 

The Toronto Telegraph, which revealed results 

of the survey, said that removal of 

candy stands from theatres could result in 

a severe attendance slump. Availability of 

confections, the paper said, has come to be 

regarded as part of the entertainment. Some 

of the smaller houses could not exist without 

the added revenue and profit. 

Meantime, in keeping with pent-up consumer 

demand for refreshments, theatres 

have streamlined candy stands, improved 

lighting and availability and provided uniforms 

for attendants. Coin-operated soft 

drink machines are being installed. In time, 

hot drinks will be an important sales factor. 

This spring, some theatres plan to install 

shoe-shine machines. 

Neighborhood stores have started to protest 

the strong hold on the candy market maintained 

by the theatres, but theatre officials 

do not believe the individual retailers have 

been hurt to any marked degree. Theatremen 

believe they are cashing in on a business 

which did not exist before. Customers just 

pick up a bar on the spur of the moment. 

Experiments have proved that a candy 

counter tucked in a corner will not do the 

same amount of business as one near the 

lobby entrance. 

"It's just like the ball game," one showman 

said. "Few people buy peanuts on the way 

in, but if a salesman makes the rounds during 

the game he will find plenty of customers. 

Food and entertainment invariably go together." 

Grownups buy more candy at theatre counters 

than children, primarily because the kids 

divide their allowances into two amounts— 

so much for candy and the rest for a show. 

They make their first port of call their favorite 

candy stores and their pockets are 

bulging when they buy admissions tickets. 

Editors Urged to Back 

Prohibition on Bingo 


MILWAUKEE—Opposition to all efforts to 

legalize bingo or weaken the state's antigambling 

laws was urged at a convention of 

the Wisconsin Daily Newspaper league here 

recently. 

Fred G. Sappington, president of the league 

and pubhsher of the Marinette Eagle-Star, 

urged all newspapers in the state to "get behind 

the legislature and the attorney general 

and keep the anti-gambling law as it is." 

He said that with the relaxation of federal 

postal regulations, newspapers can make 

money from bingo and lottery advertisements, 

but he urged that newspapers turn down such 

income. 

Directs 'Indicm Territory' 

John English will direct the Gene Autry 

western, "Indian Territory." for Columbia. 

K. C Industry Wants 

'Local 

Divorcement' 

From Midwest Edition 

KANSAS CITY—The Motion Picture 

A.ss'n of Greater Kansas City—including 

every branch of the industry—wants 

"divorcement" on the local level. 

So it informed Mayor William E. Kemp 

when he attended the association's luncheon 

meeting here this week. 

Arthur Cole, industry representative 

here for Paramount, told the mayor that 

regulatory measures in the city welfare 

department put motion pictures in the 

same classification as taverns, pool halls, 

dance halls and the like. 

"We want divorcement from the honky 

tonks," Cole said, "and one of these days 

our legislative committee will be around 

to see what can be done about it." 

Advance Interest Aroused 

In Films at Sackville 

SACKVILLE, N. B.—Pictures which have 

special appeal to students, musical groups 

or other organizations get special exploitation 

by Manager Denis Murphy and his wife 

Chris, assistant manager, at the Vogue and 

Imperial here. The Murphys notify by telephone 

or in person heads of Mount Allison 

university and its preparatory academy of 

films that would be of interest to the school's 

800 students and faculty. 

In addition, musical groups within a radius 

of 25 miles of the town are advised of films 

that would be of interest to them. The same 

advance notice is given to patriotic and other 

organizations. 

The Murphys also donate service to the 

community through the theatres. Once or 

twice a year, either the Vogue or Imperial is 

turned over to a benefit performance for local 

hospital aid. Each year one of the theatres 

gives a program for local charities and once 

a month the theatre operators distribute a 

calendar, primarily used to advertise the 

forthcoming attractions, but in which local 

merchants buy advertising. The calendar is 

given to hotels, rail stations, eating places, 

bus stops, service stations and stores. 

The male star opposite Jane Greer and 

Lizabeth Scott in the RKO film, "The Wall 

Outside," will be Dennis O'Keefe. 

Kodak Wage Dividends 

Given to 1,225 Employes 

MONTREAL—Canadian Kodak distributed 

a wage dividend of approximately $320,000 to 

1,225 employes. The 1949 wage dividend is 

the largest total amount in the 38-year history 

of the plant and the rale of payment 

is the highest since 1928. 

Eligible persons will receive $25 for each 

SI,000 earned at Kodak during the five years, 

1945 through 1949. The 1948 wage dividend 

totaled $259,000 and employes received $22.50 

for each $1,000 earned during five years. 

The wage dividend plan was established by 

George Eastman in 1912 to recognize the 

part Kodak men and women play in the 

successful operation of the company. 

The payment will bring the total distribution 

to Kodak employes in Canada since 

the plan started to $3,275 and the worldwide 

distribution will reach approximately $118,- 

500,000. Persons with Kodak five years at 

the end of 1949 will receive wage dividend 

checks about 6'; limes their average weekly 

wages during 1945 through 1949. Those with 

less service will get proportionate amounts. 

Kodak bases its wage dividend on the cash 

dividend declared in the preceding year on 

the common stock of the parent company, 

Eastman Kodak Co., and it is calculated on 

individual earnings over a five-year period. 

It is paid in addition to regular wages and 

has no effect on the wage rates. 

Video Lounge Donated 

For Army TV Courses 

From Central EJ-i :. 

CLEVELAND—The Alhambra Theatre has 

donated use of its 250-seat televi-sion lounge 

to the commander of the second army in this 

area as a pubhc service for the .showing of 

TV army training courses. 

The classes are held every Tuesday from 

8 p. m. to 9 p. m. over a 14-week period for 

all branches of the organized reserves and 

the national guard to test whether or not 

television can be used by the army for visual 

training to augment prepared army training 

films. Instruotion in newest t>'pes of weapons 

and procedure is featured in the TV shows. 

Col. Earl H. Kelso, in charge of the course, 

says that no less than 100 officers and enlisted 

men have attended each showing. Men 

are requested to wear uniform and are admitted 

free of charge. 

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THEATRE 

STREET ADDRESS 

TOWN „..._ — STATE 

NAME 

POSITION 

BOXOFHCE March 18, 1950 111

. . Some 

. . Murray 

. . Joseph 

. . 

. . 

ST. 

JOHN 

Johnny Farr, manager of the Odeon at North 

Sydney, was master of ceremonies at a 

"What's Your Beef?" program held by the 

Rotary club there. One of the beefers complained 

of the poor attendances at the Cape 

Breton Hockey league playoffs and urged the 

shuttering of the Odeon at North Sydney 

and the Strand at adjoining Sydney Mines 

on the hockey game nights. Another beeferhumorist 

advised Manager Farr to contact 

J. Arthur Rank and get some really good 

pictures for the Odeon. Through the 45-minute 

program, the theatre veteran and former 

traveling ventriloquist ribbed the beefers who 

had ribbed him. It was a burlesque on the 

daytime radio stint from Toronto. 

Leo Charlton, manager of the Oxford in 

Halifax, is one of the leaders in the publication 

of a fortnightly newspaper by the 

Quinpool Road Businessmen's Ass'n. The 

paper was started recently for free distribution 

to 5,000 homes in the west end. Charlton 

is vice-president of the association. 

A deluge of cowboy and hillbilly troupes is 

forecast for the maritimes this spring and 

summer. Several now are trouping in this 

territory, playing halls and theatres, and 

more are reported heading northeast from 

New England and from the central and western 

provinces. Montana Slim Carter and 

Hank Snow, warbling westerners, now are 

absent from their home areas. Carter, from 

Bale Verte, N. B.. was reported to be in 

Alberta, and Snow was said to be in Texas. 

He is from Blue Rocks, N. S. Both head 

their own traveling shows. 

The Empire here and the Gaiety in Falrville 

have arranged a tieup with "Meet Your 

Neighbor." a radio program which is broadcast 

daily. 

Ivan Haley, manager of the Mayfair and 

Dundas in Dartmouth, declined to be a candidate 

for re-election to the Dartmouth town 

council. He found being a councilman had 

been taking more and more of his time from 

his managerial duties, so he bowed out . . . 

The Glace Bay town council is advocating 

provincial legislation that would legalize 

Sunday baseball, football, hockey games, and 

horse and auto racing meets. Baseball, football 

and hockey games have been played on 

Sundays at Glace Bay and other centers ui 

the maritimes for many years, although outside 

the law. 

Thieves who hid in the Garrick at Halifax 

after closing Saturday night failed to 

open the safe but pretty well cleaned out 

the supply of candy and cigars. Two doors 

were broken to reach the office on the second 

floor. The attempt to open the safe was 

abandoned after the knobs were removed. 

The Saturday receipts were in the safe at 

the time. The thieves exited via a fire escape 

. pinball machine operators in 

Halifax sought introduction of a one-halfyear 

as well as a yearly license fee, but the 

application was turned down at the city hall. 

Johnny Ricketts, in charge of floor service 

DRIVE-IN 

THEATRE 

Combination Ramp Identification and Orivi 

Floodlight 

DRIVE-IH THEATRE MFG. CO. k',;!"',^';, 

at the local Regent, has a sideline. He makes 

such playthings as imitation bunnies, bears, 

dogs. etc.. in his leisure time. The demand 

is greater than the supply. Ricketts came out 

of the second world war minus the lower part 

of one leg. 

Marquees Exempted 

From Toronto Curb 

TORONTO—A solution of the street sign 

problem has been advanced by the civic works 

committee which would prohibit all overhanging 

signs on two thoroughfares except 

theatre marquees and name signs. 

A number of special conditions are involved 

in the recommendations of the committee 

which will now go to the board of control 

and thence to the city council. Existing 

sfgns of the projecting type can remain 

in place until the end of 1951. Future signs, 

with the exception of those for theatres, can 

extend only 18 inches from the face of a 

building. All illuminated signs will be required 

to have continuous lighting which 

means that flasher effects or running borders 

will be prohibited. Nothing but metal can be 

used in a sign of any kind. 

The civic committee has dropped all restriction 

on theatre canopies except that no 

flashing or rippling type lighting is permitted. 

The exemption of theatres is a victory for 

the Motion Picture Theatres Ass'n of Ontario 

which opposed the city's move throughout 

the long discussions. 

Building Commissioner K. S. Gillies admitted 

that the committee would not give 

further consideration to the application of 

the ban on theatres. Mayor Hiram McCallum 

and two of the four members of the 

board of control want the hanging signs to 

come down. 

The thoroughfares affected are Yonge 

street two miles north to Ramsden park and 

Front street for a stretch of two blocks. 

Ingrid's Affairs Her Own, 

Manitoba Board Rules 

WINNIPEG—The film censor board will not 

ban the showing in Manitoba of the Italian 

film "Stromboli." Representations had been 

made to Pi-emier D. L. Campbell and M. B. 

Newton, chairman of the film censor board, 

by two Manitoba church groups and one 

individual to have the film barred because 

of the "immoral relations" between actress 

Ingrid Bergman and her director Roberto 

Rossellini. 

Premier Campbell has replied that his 

government leaves the question of censoring 

of films to the judgment of its censor board. 

He pointed out that the board did not consider 

the contents of the films in relations 

to the private lives of the actors and actresses. 

Newton replied: "The board examines each 

film on the basis of its fitness for public 

exhibition. It cannot prohibit films on other 

grounds other than their contents." 

Newton said the Manitoba board had 

viewed the film and its contents did not warrant 

it being banned. 

The provinces of Quebec, New Brunswick, 

Nova Scotia and Ontario have approved the 

film. Newton said. "Stromboli" will open at 

Mesho Triller's Dominion Theatre here. 

MONTREAL 

pxhibitors visiting Filmrow included W. 

Mainville, the Rose, State Therese; D. St. 

Jacques, Capitol, Thurso; Dick Allaire and 

Paul Gendron, Victoria, Victoriaville; Noel 

Leclerc, Brandon, St. Gabriel de Brandon; L. 

^..ossignol, Canadian, St. Joseph d'Alma, and 

fôland Landrieault of Grenville, who says 

his new theatre, the Laurentien, will be 

opened about March 19. A. W. Perry, Toronto, 

general manager of Empire-Universal, came 

in to confer with Manager Mickey Isman . 

The Avenue, only theatre in the fashionable 

suburb of Westmount, has unveiled a green 

room for private parties, with easy chairs 

and smoking permitted. 

. . . F. 

-Fitz." Gazette columnist, noted along Guy 

street that defective bulbs had turned the 

"La Boheme" sign into "Oh Me" 

Philippe Brais, president of General Theatres, 

has been elected a director of Woods 

Mfg. Co. . . Rossellini's film, "Germany 

. 

Year Zero." is being shown at the System. 

Francois Morin is the new revisor at International 

Films, replacing Pauline Lopresti, 

who resigned recently. Eugene Venne jr. has 

been promoted to manager-booker of International 

Films . Devaney, RKO 

manager here who recently was named manager 

of the Detroit branch, has been delayed 

in taking over his new duties owing to sickness, 

which confined him to his home . 

Peerless Films has taken over the physical 

distribution of the films for the new company, 

Cine-France, of which J. Desmarais is owner. 

Edgar Hamel has returned from a visit to 

Tom Trow's theatre, the Imperial, Three 

Rivers, and to Charles Magnan's theatre, the 

Laurier, in Victoriaville . Tremblay, 

formerly with Montreal Poster Exchange who 

joined the Gayety recently as scene painter, 

has returned to his former position . . . 

"Samson and Delilah" has been held a third 

week at Loew's. 

John Adaskin, who presents Opportunity 

Knocks at the Monkland every Monday night, 

addressed the Westmount Women's club at 

its Charter day luncheon. "Listening Eyes," 

a film from the John Tracy clinic in Los 

Angeles, was shown with other films dealing 

with deafness, under the auspices of the 

Montreal League for the Hard of Hearing. 

"Listening Eyes" was filmed by Walt Disney, 

and narration is by Spencer Tracy, whose 

wife founded the John Tracy clinic and 

named it after their deaf son John. 

Canada Exhibition to Book 

New Star for 1950 Fair 

TORONTO—Elwood Hughes, general manager 

of the Canadian National Exhibition, 

told the annual meeting of the exposition 

association that Olsen and Johnson were not 

being booked as the grandstand attraction 

for the two weeks of the 1950 fair at the end 

of August. 

The two comedians had been a big drawing 

card at the national fair for the last 

two years, playing to capacity audiences at 

every performance in the 22,000-seat stadium. 

It is understood that the star for the 1950 

performances will be Danny Kaye, who recently 

parted company with Warner Bros. 

Kaye became very popular during a personal 

appearance here last October in connection 

with the formal opening of the Variety Vocational 

Guidance School for Crippled Boys. 


— 

BbokiriGilide 

BOXOFFICE 

FIRST RUN REPORTS 

This chart shows the records made by 

pictures in five or more of the 21 key cities 

checked. As new runs are reported, ratings 

are added and overages revised. 

BAROMETER 

TOP HIT OF THE WEEK 

(Kotcnavora.jo) 

Francis 

San Francisco .200 

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. 

2

dozen 

— 

— 

Exhibitor Has His Say 

(Continued from page 3) 

tries. Played Sim., Mon. Weather: Nice. 

Marcella Smith, Vinton Theatre, McArthur, 

Ohio. Small town patronage. • • • 

Young, Celeste Holm, Elsa Lanchester. This 

Scudda Hoo! Scudda Hay! (20th-Fox)— 

is a swell show that fell flat for us. The 

June Haver, Lon McCallister, Walter Brennan. 

I had aU the favorable reports on this 

trailer helped to kill it. The few who came 

said it was a swell show. We have no Catholics 

here, either. Played Sun., Mon.—Lloyd 

feature in this section of BOXOFFIC3E, and 

it bears out all these good reports, and more 

Hutchins, Pangburn Theatre. Pangburn, Ark. 

Rural patronage. * * * too! If ever there was a feature suitable for 

rural patronage, this is it. The sound and 

color were all right and so was the rental; 

thus I was permitted to make a buck. The 

two mules in this show are "humdingers," 

whatever that means! Played Sun., Mon. 

Weather; Cold and clear.—I. Roche, Vernon 

UI Was a Male War Bride (20th-Fox)— 

Cary Grant, Ann Sheridan, Marion Marshall. 

They chuckled all through this one. 

Our gross was off because of bad weather, 

but still the picture did well and we aren't 

griping. We would have been much worse 

off with a stinker. It's a mighty swell show 

and one you can go the limit on. Played Sat. 

(preview), Sun., Mon. Weather: Terrible.— 

William J. Harris, Crown Theatre, Lincoln, 

Ark. Rural and small town patronage- • * * 

Letter to Three Wives, A (20th-Fox)—Linda 

Darnell, Jeanne Crain, Ann Sothern. This picture 

has every man in town talking about 

"Addie," so if you can keep 'em talking, I 

guess it's all right. Business was normal and 

the picture unusual, to say the least. You 

can't go too far wrong on it. Played Sufl., 

Mon. Weather: Fair and cold.—Joe and Mildred 

Faith, Linn Theatre, Linn, Mo. Rural 

and small town patronage. • * * 

Letter to Three Wives, A (20th-Fox)—Linda 

Darnell, Jeanne Crain, Ann Sothern. This 

picture seemed to please a large percentage 

of the women customers, but most of the men 

were plain disgusted. It registered below normal 

at the boxoffice. This type of picture 

will not be missed in the small towns.—L. A. 

Knott, Esquire Theatre, Tieton, Wash. Small 

town patronage. * * 

Mother Is a Freshman (20th-Fox)—Loretta 

Young, Van Johnson, Rudy Vallee. Here is 

one of the grandest Uttle pictures I have received 

this year from Fox. The color is very 

good and a good story is carried well by 

Loretta Young and Van Johnson. However, 

the weather and a new rink have been against 

us all winter, so I only broke even on it. 

Played Thurs., Fri.. Sat. Weather; 40 below. 

—H. J. McFall, Lyric Theatre, Russell, Man. 

Small town and rural patronage. * * * 

Oh, You Beautiful Doll (20th-Fox)—June 

Haver, Mark Stevens, S. Z. Sakall. This is 

a very good musical show in Technicolor but 

for some reason it failed to draw as I expected. 

Business was average and I broke 

even. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Good.— 

E. M. Freiburger, Dewey Theatre, Dewey, 

Okla. Small town patronage. • • • 

Oh, You Beautiful DoU (20th-Fox)—Jime 

Haver, Mark Stevens, S. Z. Sakall. This just 

didn't go over. There is nothing to it. Personally, 

I was quite bored and so was the 

audience. Fox can do better than this if it 

Folks Like Jack Carson 

And So Do the Faiths 

JOHN LOVES IVLVRY 

(WB)—Ronald 

Reagan, Jack Carson, Wayne Morris. The 

people in our town just seem to like Jack 

Carson—and come to think of it, we 

"kinda" like the big lug ourselves! This 

picture is a natural for just a little above 

normal business in small towns. Played 

Sun., Mon. Weather: Rain. — Joe and 

Mildred Faith, Linn Theatre, Linn, Mo. 

Rural and small town patronage. * * * 

Theatre, Vernon, Fla. Small town and rural 

patronage. 

• • • 

UNITED ARTISTS 

So This Is New York (UA)—Henry Morgan, 

Rudy Vallee, Hugh Herbert. This is a 

sUly, ridiculous show. The preview sells it 

and the audience got a lot of laughs out of it, 

so felt they got their money's worth. We 

doubled it with "Green Dolphin Street," 

which is a splendid, long drawn out produc- 

Floyd R. Matter Joins 

Our Exhibitor Forum 

•PHIS WEEK'S red carpet is roUed out 

for new contributor, Floyd R. Matter 

of the Riverside Theatre at Clifton, Tenn. 

Floyd has had the Riverside for only 18 

months but has been in theatre business 

since 1918. His wife and his brother help 

him manage the theatre, he and the 

brother taking turns running the projection 

machine. 

Matter's other business interests include 

outdoor amusements and he is a 

woodworker in the hobby field. He finds 

high film rentals the major problem 

today for small town exhibitors, and 

thinks the parcel post shipment rates are 

outrageous. 

tion that drew four or five people who had 

missed it the other half , times it has 

been around here. Business was below average 

on the Wed., Thurs. played.—Melvin M. 

Edel, State Theatre, Centralia, 111. Small 

town patronage. 

UNIVERSAL-INTERNATIONAL 

Abbott and CosteUo Meet the KiUer (U-I) 

—Bud Abbott, Lou CosteUo, Boris Karloff. 

They let me down on this one. A&C are 

usually top draw here, but this fell below 

average. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Fair. 

—Mrs. Pat Murphy, Queen Theatre. Holliday, 

Tex. OU field patronage. • • • 

Sword in the Desert (U-I)—^Dana Andrews, 

Marta Toren, Stephen McNally. We had a 

lot of favorable comments, so apparently it 

was well liked. It is interesting and entertaining 

too. Played Wed. through Sat. 

Weather; Stormy.—M. W. Mattecheck, Mack 

Theatre, McMinnville, Ore. City and rural 

patronage. 

* • • 

WARNER BROS. 

Adventures of Don Juan (WB) — Errol 

Flynn, Viveca Lindfors, Robert Douglas. This 

has splendid color, good acting, a good plot 

and suitable length—but it is not suitable for 

my farmers as they care not a whit for swordplay 

and short pants of these period pictures. 

Therefore, I did not make expenses on it. 

All I got out of it was a chance to tell the 

/. Roche Sends S.O.S. 

About Competition 

T Roche sends out an S.O.S. call to fellow 

exhibitors on how to compete with 

some of the attractions which are cutting 

down his crowds: 

"Can anyone tell me how to compete 

successfully with ball games, the square 

dance craze and the skating fever? These 

have swept over the land and combined, 

are ruining me." 

WB salesman, "I told you so!" Played Wed., 

Thurs. Weather: Ice and cold.—I. Roche, 

Vernon Theatre, Vernon, Fla. Small town 

and rural patronage. • • * 

Decision of Christopher Blake, The (WB) 

Alexis Smith, Robert Douglas, Ted Donaldson. 

This show didn't entertain nor did it 

do any business. The dream scenes can't be 

understood and it moved too slowly, so it 

should be double billed. Played Fri., Sat. 

Weather: Fair.—Ralph Raspa, State Theatre, 

RivesvUle, W. Va. Rural patronage. • * * 

It's a Great Feeling (WB)—Dennis Morgan, 

Jack Carson, Doris Day. This was enjoyed 

by the few that ventmred out. The 

color and costumes are superb and if musicals 

are liked in your community, give this one 

your best tune. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. 

Weather; Very cold.—H. J. Partridge, Lyceum 

Theatre, Gull Lake, Sask. Urban and rural 

patronage. • • » 

Montana (WB)—Errol Flynn, Alexis Smith, 

S. Z. Sakall. Here is a dead natural for small 

towns as well as large. The movie has drawing 

power and action from start to finish. 

Despite winter weather at almost 4,000 feet, 

we had better than average business. Played 

Sun., Mon.—O. D. Calhoun, Scenic Theatre, 

Newland, N. C. Rural and small town patronage. 

• 

Story of Seabiscuit, The (WB)—Shirley 

Temple, Barry Fitzgerald, Lon McCallister. 

This is another good horse story that should 

do better business than we did with it. It is 

not a top bracket picture, due to the lack of 

stars. Played Sun., Mon. Weather: Okay.— 

D. W. Trisko, Ritz Theatre, Jerome, Ariz. 

Mining patronage. « • • 

Task Force (WB)—Gary Cooper, Jane 

Wyatt, Wayne Morris. This is a fine navy 

action picture. Gary Cooper turns in a fine 

piece of acting and seemed to satisfy most 

of those who came. For some reason this 

didn't click as expected, as it did only 86 

per cent. Possibly the bottom half kiUed this, 

as I booked "Timber Stampede" (RKO) , with 

George O'Brien. Played Thurs., Fri., Sat. 

Weather; Clear and warm.—Jim Dunbar, 

Roxy Theatre, Wichita, Kas. Downtown subsequent 

run patronage. 

• * • 

MISCELLANEOUS 

Topper Returns (UFE) — Reissue. Joan 

BlondeU, Roland Young, Carole Landis. Does 

your audience need good, hearty laughs? This 

is for you, then, paired with "Turnabout." 

You can guarantee robust laughs and not get 

one refund. "Turnabout" is, I believe, the 

most laughable. These Thome Smith epics 

from his novels can't be beat for all- 'round 

fim. Not too old, either, and bgth have excellent 

casts. I didn't hear a complaint out 

of anybody, including the boxoffice. Played 

Sat. (preview). Sun., Tues. Weather: Cloudy, 

misty and cool.—Jim Dunbar, Roxy Theatre, 

Wichita, Kas. Subsequent run patronage. • • • 

BOXOFFICE BookinGuide March 18, 1950

Alpbabetital Pletw Guide Index and 

REVIEW DICES 

tS 

1* 

UMOAbandoned (79) U-t 10-15-49 + 

1061 Abbott & Costeiro Meet the Killv 

(84) U-l 8-U-49 ± 

1093Ailaiii and E»alyn (93) U-l U-26-49 ±. 

1088 Adam's Rib (102) MGM 11-5-49 + 

1022 Adventure in Baltimore (89) RKt.. 3-26-49 -|- 

1012 Affairs of a Rogue, The (95) Col 2-19-49 + 

1053 Africa Screams (75) UA 5- 7-49 + 

1042 Against the Wind (95) EL fi- 4-49 ± 

1055 Air Hostess (61) Col 7-23-49 ± 

1006 Alias Nick Beal (93) Para. 1-22-49 -ff 

1085 Alias the Chamu (60) Rtr 10-29-49 -f- 

1049 Alimony (72) EL 7-2-49 ± 

1044 All Over the Town (88) U-l 6-11-49 ± 

US7AII the King's Men (110) Col 11- 5-49 -H^ 

1094 Always Leave Them LaughJn) 

(116) WB 

1108 Amazing Mr. Beecham, The (85) 

U-26-49 

EL 1-14-SO 

4+ 

± 

1040 Amazon Quest (70) FC 5-28-49 :£: 

UOlAmbush (90) MGM 12-24-49 -f 

1090 And Baby Mal(es Three (84) Col. .. 11-12-49 + 

Angels In Disguise (63) Mono 

1054 Anna Lucasta (86) Col 7-16-49 + 

1042 Any Number Can Play (102) MGM.. 6- 4-49 

1082 Apache Chief (60) LP 10-22-49 

-f- 

- 

1046 Arctic Fury (61) RKO 6-18-49 =t 

1071 Arctic Manhunt (69) U-l 9-17-49 ± 

1037 Arson, Inc. (60) LP 5-21-49 ±. 

1120 Astonished Heart, The (92) U-l 2-25-50 ± 

1110 Backfire (92) WB 1-21-50 + 

1006 Bad Boy (87) Mono 1-22-49 -f 

1095 Bagdad (90) U-l 12-3-49 ± 

1078 Bandit King of Texas (60) Rep 10- 8-49 -f 

iaS2 Bandits of El Dorado (56) Col 10-22-49 ± 

1072Barbary Pirate (65) Col 9-17-49 ± 

1028 Barkleys of Broadway, The (110) 

MGM 4-16-49 ++ 

1117 Baron of Arizona, TIm (97) LP 2-18-50 + 

1123 Barricade (75) WB 3-U-50 

1078 Battleground (U8) MGM 10-8-49 

+ 

H 

1040 Beautiful Blonde From Bashful Bend, 

The (77) 20-Fm( 5-28-49 -|- 

1109 Bells of Coronado (67) Rep 1-21-50 ± 

1113 Belle of Old Mexico (70) Rep 2- 4-50 ± 

1082 Beyond the Forest (96) WB 10-22-49 -|- 

1033 Big Cat, The (75) EL 5- 7-49 ± 

1126 Big Hannover, The (S2) MGM 3-18-50 -t- 

1025 Big Jack (85) MGM 4- 9-49 

1027 Big Sombrero, The (87) Col 4-16-49 + 

1045 Big Steal, The (71) RKO 6-18-49 -f- 

10B9 Big Wheel, The (92) UA 11-12-49 -f 

1038 Black Book, The (formerly Reign 

of Terror) (89) EL 5-21-49 + 

1110 Black Hand (92) MGM l-Zl-50 # 

1066 Black Magic (105) U A 8-27-49 \\ 

Black Midnight (66) Mono 

1077 BlacJi Shadows (62) EL 10-8-49 

1061 Blazing Trail, The (56) Col 8-13-49 

± 

± 

1052 Blind Goddess, The (88) U-l 7- 9-49 ±l 

1112 Blonde Bandit (60) Rep. 1-ZS-SO + 

Blonde Dynamite Mono 

* * * 

(66) 

1080 Blondie Hits the Jackpot (66) Col.. .10-15-49 ± 

1021 Blondie's Big Deal (66) Col 3-26-49 ± 

1125 Blondies Hero (67) Col 3-18-50 ± 

1111 Blue Grass of Kentucky (70) Mono.. . 

1-28-50 -f 

1060 Blue Lagoon, The (105) U-l B- 6-49 -(- 

1115 Bodyhold (65) Col 2-11-50 -|- 

1107 Bomba on Panther Island (76) Mono. 1-14-50 -f 

1016 Bomba. the Jungle Boy (71) Mono... 3- 5-49 -f- 

1065 Border Incident (95) MGM 8-27-49 -f 

1109 Borderline (88) U-l 1-21-50 ++ 

1021 Boston Blackie's Chineu Vurtm 

Col (59) 3-26-48 ± 

1010 Bribe, TTie (98) MGM 2-12-49 + 

1083 Bride for Sale (87) RKO lB-29-49 -f- 

U>23-A Bride of Vengeance (92) Para..- 4- 2-49 ri. 

1064 Brimstone (90) Rep 8-20-49 + 

1044 Broken Journey (89) EL S-11-49 + 

1015 Brothers in the Saddle (60) RKO.. 3- 5-49 ± 

+ + 

- + 

± ± ±. 

+f 

+ ¥t 

+ ++ 

± -1+ 

++ 

- 

-t- =t - 

+t ++ tt 

+ + 

+ + 

+ :t 

+ + 

+ * 

± ± 

- ± 6+3- 

±i ± 6-t-4- 

4+3- 

H -H 10+ 

tt + W-2- 

- 6+1- 

4+3- 

± fr+6- 

* l(H-2- 

S: 5+3- 

i: 5+7- 

± 6+5- 

V> 13+ 

:»: UH-l- 

+ 5+2- 

± — * 4+5- 

+ ± ± 8+2- 

± — i: 6+5- 

2+3- 

^3- 

H-1- 

3+5- 

6+3- 

5+«- 

5+3- 

9+3- 

± *+3- 

+ 9+1- 

± 7+6- 

± ^2- 

2+1- 

± 4+6- 

W H 13+ 

4+2- 

± 5+4- 

++ ++ 14+ 

+ 5+4- 

* 6+2- 

4+6- 

* 7-H- 

:i: 7+3- 

1+ 

± ± — 

± 5+2- 

i 7+2- 

:t 9+2- 

9+ 

± 9+y- 

:t 5+5- 

3+3- 

± S+4- 

* frfS- 

* 6f6- 

2+2- 

- 4+5- 

- 5+4- 

4+2- 

+ 8+ 

6+ 

2+1- 

4+1- 

:t 7+3- 

± K-1- 

± 7+3- 

:t •+- 

± 7+6- 

± 7+3- 

+ 7+5- 

± 1+i- 

± 7+5- 

1121 Buccaneer's Girl (77) U-l 3- 4-50 

1044 Calamity Jane and Sam Bus 

(85) U-l 6-U-49 

1013 Canadian Pacific (97) 20-Fa> 2-26-49 

1010 Canterbury Tale. A (93) EL 2-12-49 

1120 Capt-nin Carey, USA. (83) Para... 2-25-50 

1088 Captain China (97) Para U- 5-49 

Caravan (( .) U-l 

1012 Caught (88) MGM 2-19-49 

1113 Chain Ughtnlng (94) WB 2- 4- SO 

1084 Challenge to Lassie (76) MGM 10-29-49 

1116 Champagne for Caesar (99) UA 2-U-50 

l019ChamDioo (99) UA 5-19-49 

1067 Chicago Oadline (87) PanL 9- 3-49 

1099 Chinatown at Midnight (67) C*l. .. 12-17-49 

1079 Chrlstophtf Columbus (104) U-l 10-15-49 

1102 Cinderella (75) RKO 12-24-49 

1015 City Across the River 5- 5-49 

(91) U-l . - - 

1012 Clay Pigeon, The (63) RKO 2-19-49 

1032 C-Man (75) FC 4-30-49 

1038 Colorado Tarrltory (94) WB 5-21-49 

1047 Come to Uia Stable (94) 20-F«x. «-2S-49 

. . 

1013 Connecticut Yankee In King Artkw'i 

Court, A (107) Pwt. 2-2«-4f 

1116 Conspirator (87) MGM 2-11-50 

943 Corridor of Mirrors (96) U-l 6-19-4S 

1014Cover-Up (83) UA 2-26-49 

1099 Cowboy and the Indians 12.17-49 

(70) Col. . . 

1109 Cowboy .nnd the Prirelighter (59) EL 1-21-50 

1043 Crime Doctor's Diary (61) Col 6-U-49 

1035 Crooked Way, Tlie (90) UA 5-14-49 

1118 Cry Murder (63) FC 2-18-50 

+

H Very Good; + Good; ± Fair; — Poor; = Very Poor. In the summary H is rated as 2 pluses. = as 2 minuses. 

1034 Forbidden Street, The (91) 20- Fox. . 5- 7-49 + 

999 Force of Evil (79) MGM 1-1-49 * 

1052 ForQOtlen Women (64) Mono 7- 9-49 ±. 

1048 Fountainhead, The (U3) WB 6-25-49 -f 

1097 Francis (91) U-l 12-10-49 -f 

1090 Free for All (83) U-l U-12-49 -f 

1038 Frontier Investioator (60) Ren. 5-21-49 -f 

G 

1074 Gal Who Took the West. The (84) U-l 9-24-49 + 

1040 Gay Amioo (62) UA 5-28-49 ± 

U12Gay Lady, The (96) EL 1-28-50 ± 

1047 Girl From Jones Beach (78) WB 6-25-49 -|- 

1060 Girl in the Paintinj, The (90) U-l.. 8- 6-49 ± 

U06 Girls' School (62) Col 1- 7-50 ± 

1105 Glass Mountain, The (97) EL 1- 7-50 -f- 

1081 Golden Madonna. The (88) Mono. . .10-22-49 ± 

1088 Golden Stallion, The (67) Rep 11-5-49 -(- 

1068 Grand Canyon (78) LP 9-3-49 -t 

1056 Great Dan Patch, TTie (94) UA 7-23-49 ff 

1123 Great Plane Robbery (61) UA 3-U-50 rt 

1032 Great Gatsby. The (91) Para 4-30-49 -|- 

1072 Great Lover, The (80) Para. 9-17-49 ± 

1105 Great Rupert. The (88) EL 1- 7-50 -f 

1050 Great Sinner. The (110) MGM 7- 2-49 ++ 

1017 Green Promise, The (94) RKO.... 3-12-49 + 

1118 Guilty Bystander (92) FC 2-18-50 + 

1105 Guilty of Treason (85) EL 1- 7-50 + 

1087 Gun Crazy (Reviewed as Deadly 

1119 Gunmen of Abilene (60) Rep 2-25-50 

-f- 

± 

Is the Female) (87) UA 11-5-49 

H 

950 Hamlet (155) U-l 7-10-48 ++ 

1096 Hasty Heirt, The (99) WB 12-3-49 -|- 

1072 Heiress, The (115) Para 9-17-49 ff 

1043 Hellfire (90) Rep 6-11-49 ff 

1045 Her Man Gilbey (77) U-l 6-19-49 ± 

1112 Hidden Room. The (98) EL 1-28-50 -|- 

1025 Hideout (61) Rep 4-9-49 ± 

Hoedown (..) Col 

Hold That Baby (64) Mono 

1091 Holiday Affair (87) RKO U-19-49 -|- 

1074 Holiday in Havana (73) Col 9-24-49 ± 

U03 Hollywood Varieties (60) LP 12-31-49 -f 

1034 Home in San Antone (62) Col 5- 7-49 ± 

1031 Home ol the Brave (86) UA 4-30-49 -f 

1018 Homicide (77) WB 3-12-49 ± 

1069 Horsemen of the Sierras (56) Col... 9-10-49 ± 

1063 House Across the Street, The (69) WB 8-20-49 ± 

1046 House of Strangers (101) 20-Fox 6-19-49 ff 

I 

10e7lchabod and Mr. Toad (68) RKO... 9- 3-49 ff 

1004 1 Cheated the Law (71) 20-Fox.... 1-15-49 ± 

1009 1 Shot Jesse James (81) LP 2-12-49 -(- 

1061 I Was a Male War Bride (105) 20-Fox 8-13-49 + 

1046 Illegal Entry (84) U-l 6-18-49 i!: 

1021 Impact (Ul) UA 3-26-49 -f 

1048 In the Good Old Summertime 

(102) MGM S-25-49 -(- 

1092 Inspector General, The (102) WB.. 11-19-49 -f 

1080 Intruder in the Dust (87) MGM ... .10-15-49 ±. 

1017 It Always Rains on Sunday (88) EL 3-12-49 ± 

1036 It Happens Every Spring (89) 20-Fox 5-14-49 -|- 

1058 It's a Great Feeling (85) WB 7-30-49 ff 

J 

1067 JiBQS and Maggie in Jackpot Jitters 

(67) Mono 9-3-49 -f 

1019 Jigsaw (72) UA 3-19-49 ± 

982 Joan of Arc (145) RKO 10-30-48 ff 

1014 Joe Palooka in the Big Fight 

(66) Mono 2.26-49 -f 

Ivt Ptitoki Id til* Omtcriunck (71) 

(Mono) 

1114 Jot Palooka Meets Humphrey 

± 

(65) Mono 2- 4-50 

1047 Johnny Allegro (81) Col 6-25-49 -f 

1093 Johnny Holiday (92) UA U-26-49 -f 

1055 Johnny Stool Pigeon (75) U-l 7-23-49 -f 

1064 Jolson Sings Again (95) Col 8-20-49 ff 

1035 Judge Steps Out. The (91) RKO 5-14-49 =t 

1? 

-f 

+ + 

+ ± 

ff 

ft 

-f 

+ + 

ff ± 

+ + 

+f 

+ 

+ 

+ -f 

-f ff 

-f -f 

= -f 

ff ft ff ff ff 

ff 

ff ff ff ff 

ff ff ff ff 

ft 

•f :t 

-f -f 

ff - 

ff ++ 

Just a Big Simple Girl (..) UA 

K 

1049 Kazan (65) Col 7- 2-49 -f 

1114 Key to the City (101) MGM 2- 4-50 

1070 Kid From Cleveland. The (89) Rep. 9- 10-49 

ff 

— 

1121 Kid From Texas, The (78) U-l 3- 4-50 ± 

1082 Kiss for Corliss. A (88) UA 10-22-49 

1016 Kiss in the Dark. A (87) WB... 3- 5-49 

-f 

± 

1013 Knock on Any Door (100) Col 2-26-49 ff 

L 

1036 Lady Gambles, The (99) U-l 5-14-49 -(- 

7-f4- 

6-f^- 

6-f5- 

6-f3- 

7-f3- 

ftf->- 

6+2- 

5+5— 

2+2- 

»+2- 

7+2- 

3+7- 

*+3- 

*+3- 

7+1- 

>+3- 

11+3- 

3+3- 

frfZ- 

fr+2- 

6+1- 

8+4- 

8+3- 

7+1- 

5+3- 

6+3- 

5+4- 

+f 14+ 

10+ 

ff 12+1- 

± 9+3- 

± 7+6- 

ff 6+1- 

±. 7+6- 

2+3- 

4+3- 

ff 7+ 

4+4— 

3+2- 

2+2- 

# 13+ 

* 7+7- 

- 4+3- 

S: 6+7- 

tf 14+ 

ff 14+ 

5+6- 

+ 7-t- 

+ 18+1- 

± 7+4- 

+ 10+2- 

± 6+2- 

+ 10+1- 

± 5+5- 

f+ 10+ 

S: 8+1- 

- ^2- 

+ 6+4- 

ff 14+ 

± S+5- 

± 4+2- 

5+3- 

± 6+3- 

7+1- 

+ 7+2- 

ff 13+ 

± 7+5- 

- 1+3- 

± 4+3- 

± 5+5- 

6+5- 

6+3- 

5+5— 

+ U+ 

ff ff 9+4- 

Tht (99) WB + + 096 Udy Takes a Sailor, 

041 Laramie (55) Col 

12- 3-49 

6- 4-49 

ff 

±. 

+ 

±. 

ff 

± 

ff 

+ 

+ 

± 

10+ 

5+4- 

011 Last Bandit, Tlie (80) Rep 2-19-49 + ± + + + + :i: 7+2- 

054 Law of the Barbary Coast (65) Col. 7-16-49 i ± it ± ± ±. 6+6- 

039 Uw of the Golden West (60) Rep... 5-28-49 + it + + ± ± 6+3- 

040 Leave It to Henry (57) Mono 5-28-49 + + + 3+ 

009 Life of Riley, The (87) U-l 2-12-49 + ± + ff + + ± 8+3- 

014 Uttle Women (122) MGM 2-26-49 ff + ff ff ++ ff ± 12+1 

058 Une Wolf and His Lady, The (60) 

Col 7-30-49 ±. - ±. 

049 Look for the Silver Linlne (106) WB 7- 2-49 ff + ff + 

050 Lost Boundaries (97) FC 7-2-49 ft ff ft ff 

036 Lost Tribe, The (72) Col 5-14-49 d: ± + ± 

025 Lovable Cheat, The (76) FC 4- 9-49 ± — ± 

.078 Love Happy (91) UA 10-8-49 + ± ± + 

039 Lust for Gold (90) Col 5-28.49 f ± + + 

M 

.024.AMaand Pa Kettle (75) U-l 4- 2-49 -f - + + 

977 Macbeth (107) Rep 10-16-48 ± :t i + 

058 Madame Bovary (U4) MGM 7-30-49 ± ± + ft 

037 Make Believe Ballroom (79) Cot 5-21-49 + ± ff 

062 Make Mine Laughs (64) RKO 8-13-49 ± ± + + 

Malaya (96) MGM 12-10-49 -\- ± ± ± 

008 Man About the House (93) 20-Fox. . 1-29-49 ± + + ff 

027 Manhandled (96) Para. 4-16-49 ± + + 

988 Manhattan Angel (68) Col 11-20-49 iL — ±. 

102 Man on the Eiffel Tower (96) RKO. .12-24-49 ± + ± + 

Mark of the Gorilla (68) Col. =t + 

099 Mary Ryan, Detective (68) Col 12-17-49 ±. ± ±. 

075 Masked Raiders (60) RKO 10- 1-49 + ± + 

026 Massacre River (78) Mona 4-9-49 ± + ± + 

± — 

Master Minds (64) Mono 

039 Mighty Joe Young (94) RKO 5-28-49 

003 Miranda (75) EL 1-15-49 

+ 

+ 

+ 

+ 

+ 

+ 

+ 

+ 

076 Miss Grant Takes Rlchnont 

± ± ± 5+6- 

ff ff + 11+1 

ff ff 4f 14+ 

+ ± :t 7+5- 

2+4- 

- + 5+3- 

+ + frfl- 

+ ± ± 6+3- 

- ff 6+4- 

ff 

llH-2- 

± »f3- 

6+*- 

+t 10+3- 

+ 8+2- 

± 6+2- 

± 5++ 

1066 Mysterious Desperado, The (61) RKO 8-27-49 ± f- + ± + 5+2-j 

N 

1114 Nancy Goes to Rio (93) MGM 2-4-50 ff + ff ff + + »+ 

1085 Navajo Trail Raiders (60) Hep... .10-29-49 + ± ± ± ± frf5- 

1038 Neptune's Daughter (93) MGM 5-21-49 ff tt + + tf + 1(H- 

1107 Nevadan, The (81) Col 1-14-50 + ± + + + ± 7+2- 

1108 Never Fear (81) EL 1-14-50 ± ± ± ± tt 6+4- 

1028 Night Unto Night (84) Wl 4-16-49 ± d: ± — + 5+S- 

1120 No Man of Her Own (98) Para... . 2-25-50 + ± ff tf ft 

8+1- 

1048 Not Wanted (91) FC 6-25-49 + + d: ± + ± t+ w-»- 

O 

1074 Oh. You Beautiful Doll (93) 2«-Fox 9-24-49 + + + ft + + 7+ 

lOSlOmoo, Omoo (58) LP 7-9-49 ±. ±. ±. 

3+3- 

1057 Once More, My Darling (92) U-l... 7-30-49 + + + tt + + it 8+1- 

1051 Once Upon a Dream (87) EL 7- 9-49 — ± ± + ± ± it 6+6- 

1051 One Last Fling (64) WB 7-9-49 = = — ± - ± — 2+9- 

1024 One Night With You (85) U-l 3-26-49 it ± — d: + d: it 6+6— 

995 One Sunday Afternoon (90) WB. .. .12-18-48 + it ± + ff + + 8+2- 

1042 One Woman's Story (86) U-l 6- 4-49 + it + + — it + 6+3- 

1098 On the Town (98) MGM 12-10-49 tt + + ft + tt ft 11+ 

Outcasts of the Trail (60) Rep ±. + H 3+2- 

1024-A Outpost In Morocco (92) UA 4-2-49 ± ± it + + ± + 7+4- 

1124 Outriders, The (94) MGM 3-U-50 ff + + + + 

6+ 

1116 Outside the Wall (80) U-l 2-11-50 ff ± + ± it + 7+3- 

P 

1111 Palomino, The (75) Col 1-28-50 it it ff + it 6+3- 

1101 Paid in Full (104) Para. 12-24-49 di — + + + ± + 6+3- 

SSaParadine Case, The (U7) EL 1- 3-48 tt tt tt tt tt tt ff 14+ 

1077 Passport to Pimlico (72) EL 10-8-49 + + tt + + ff tt 10+ 

1122 Perfect Strangers (88) WB 3-4-50 ff it ft ft + + ^1- 

1077 Pinky (102) 20-Fox 10-8-49 tt + ft ff tf tt tt 13+ 

1107 Pioneer Marshal (60) Rep 1-14-50 — ± ± ± — - 3+6- 

1098 Pirates of Capri, The (94) FC 1210-49 + it it + 1013 Place of One's Own, A (94) EL. 2-26-49 it ± ± * + ± ± 6+3- 

it 7+&- 

. . . 

6 

BOXOmCE BookinGuide :: March 18, 1950

tt Very Good; + Good; ± Fair; - Poor; = Very Poor. 

In the summary H is rated as 2 pluses. = as 2 minuses. 

i^ 

il24 Please Believe Me (S7) MGM 3-11-50 

j095 Port of New York (79) EL 12- 3-49 

999 Portrait of Jennie (90) EL 1- 1-49 

1071 Post Office Investioator (60) Rep... 9-17-49 

1085 Prairie, The (65) LP 10-29-49 

.018 Prejudice (58) MPSC 3-12-49 

ji,, 

1066 Prince of Foxes (107) 20-Fo)[ 8-27-49 

U.j 

L026 Prince of Peace (formerly The Lawton Story) 

(111) Hallmark 4-9-49 

1030 Prince of the Plains (60) Rep. 4-23-49 

^^^ 

H 

1097 Prison Warden (62) Col 12-10-49 

1091 Project X (60) FC 11-19-49 - 

Q 

SiV 1023-A Quartet (120) EL 4- 2:49 

W. 1121 Quicksand (79) UA 3- 4-50 4+ 

+ 

± + 

± ± 

V.-:- 

J+2- 

+ 6+3- 

+f 10-1-1- 

± 6-l-S- 

1+2- 

f 

S-l-2- 

1. 1042 Red Menace, The (87) Rep 6- 4-49 

5.). 1011 Red Pony, The (89) Rep 2-19-49 

5-S- 980 Red Shoes, The (134) EL 10-23-48 

M- 1019 Red Stallion in the Rockies (85) EL 3-19-49 

M L124 Reformer and the Redhead. The 

(90) MGM 3-11-50 

!+S. 

m 1110 Renegades of the Sage (56) Col 1-21-50 

;;i. 1096 Riders in the Sky (70) Col 12-3-49 

Riders of the Dusk (57) Mono 

U 1041 Riders of the Whistling Pints 

M (70) Col 6- 4-49 

Itii. 1083 Riders of the Range (60) RKO 10-29-49 

1106 Riding High (112) Para 1- 7-SO 

>t 1024-A Rimfire (67) LP 4- 2-49 

1055 Rim of the Canyon (70) Col 7-23-49 

K- 1056 Ringside (62) LP 7-23-49 

1053 Roll Thunder Roll! (58) EL 7-16-49 

4-1- 1050 Rope of Sand (105) Para 7- 2-49 

I-i. 1063 Roseanna McCoy (89) RKO 8-20-49 

:-(. 1037 Roughshod (88) RKO 5-21-49 

1100 Rugged O'Riordans, The (76) U-1 . .12-17-49 

1022 Rustlers (61) RKO..,. 3-26-49 

1029 Rusty Saves a Life (68) Col 4-23-49 

1094 Rusty's Birthday (60) Col 11-26-49 

1100 Salt to the Devil (Reviewed as 

s 

Give Us This Day) (120) EL 12-17-49 

1084 Samson and Oelilah (130) Para 10-29-49 

1079 San Antone Ambush (60) Rep 10-15-49 

1031 Sand (77) 20-Fox 4-30-49 

1102 Sands of Iwo Jima (109) Rep 12-24-49 

1029 Saraband (95) EL 4-23-49 

1091 Satan's Cradle (60) UA 11-19-49 

1057 Savage Splendor (60) RKO 7-30-49 

1048 Scene of the Crime (94) MGM.... 6-25-49 

1028 Scott fff the Antarctic (111) EL 4-16-49 

1032 Secret Garder, The (92) MGM 4-30-49 

1049 Secret of St. Ives, The (76) Col. 

. . 7- 2-49 

1022 Set-Up, The (72) RKO 3-26-49 

1035 Shamrock Hill (71) EL 5-14-49 

1057 She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (103) RKO 7-30-49 

1103 Side Street (84) MGM 12-31-49 

1094 Silent Dust (82) Mono 11-26-49 

1126 Singing Guns (91) Rep 3-18-50 

1056 Sky Dragon (64) Mono 7-23-49 

1056 Sky Lln» (60) LP •- «-» 

1050 Slattir/] Hurricane (83) tt-Fox - ft-49 

1023A Sleeping Car te Trieste (9!) EL.. 4- 1-49 

1024 Snowbound (85) U-l 5-16-49 

1014 Song of India (77) Col 1-26-49 

1072 Song of Surrmder (93) Pari. 9-17-49 

Son of Billy the Kid (65) LP 

1110 Sons of New Mexico (71) Col 1-21-58 

1027 Sorrowful Jones (88) Part. 4-16-49 

1061 South of Death Valley (54) Col 8-13-49 

1062 South of Rio (60) Rep. 8-13-49 

1011 South of St. Louis (88) WB 2-19-49 

> 1107 South Sea Sinner (88) U-l 1-14-50 

1032 Special Agent (70) Par* 4-30-49 

1076 Spring in Park Lane (91) EL 10- 1-49 

1089 Square Dance Jubilee (79) LP 11-12-49 

1046 Stagecoach Kid, The (60) RKO... 6-18-49 

1122 Stage Fright (113) WB 3- 4-50 

1044SUIIion Canyon (72) Astor 6-11-49 

1031 Stampede (78) Mono 4-30-49 

1121 Stars in My Crown (89) MGM 3- 4-50

FEATURE CHART 

^Z\ 

COLUMBIA 

release date. Production number is at tight. Number in parentheses is running timi 

furnished by home oUice of distributor; checkup with local exchange is recoituneil 

R—is review date. PG—is Picture Guide page number. Symbol O indicates BOXOFI 

Blue Ribbon Award Winner. Symbol © indicates color photography. 

||

d" 

lOiilE 

RKO RADIO 

D (88) West-Dr 836 

ROUGHSHOD 

B. BUrllDg-Q. Qrihunt 

B—Uiy 31—PO-1937 

(60) Wcetcm 001 

THE STAGECOACH KID 

rtia HoltRldurd klartln 

(69) Drum 006 

FOLLOW ME aUIETLY 

Kruil&m Lundlgas-J. Core; 

CHECK RUNNING TIME WITH LOCAL EXCHANGES 

REPUBLIC 

Inoe Bhlrley-Joto Dayli 

»— Aug. IS—PO-1062 

g (61) Western «0T 

(YSTERIOUS DESPERADO 

Tim Hott-Mar)orle Lonl 

ASKED RAIDERS 

nn HoU-Ulchard Martin 

iiarjorle Lonl-Uvy (]ray 

»—Ort. 1—PO-107B 

»B (68) Drama •II 

(TRANCE BARGAIN 

lartlia Seott-Jenrey Lynn 

(61) Drama Oil Ray McDonald-M. Carr 

IRCTIC FURY R—Oct. 8—PO-1078 

I (68) Cartooo 093 BJ (66) Weatrm 855 

BIdiaM and Mr. Toad SAN ANTONE AMBUSH 

(arratton by 

Mnoto Hale-Boy Bareroft 

lloi Crosby-BuQ Ratkbon« Bptto Danlds-Patil Hurst 

I—Sept. 3—PO-1067 R—Oct. 15—PO-1879 

(S (160) Drama 4901 

The Fighting Kcntucklan 

John Wayne-Vera Ralston 

PhUlp Dom-OUver Hardy 

B—Sept. 17—PG-1071 

„ (60) WertCTO OH H (60) Com-M'dr 817 

IIDERS OF THE RANGE ALIAS THE CHAMP 

3m Holt-Rlehard Martin Gorgeous Oeorge 

teqneUne WUt« 

Barbra Foller-B. Rockwell 

29— PO-1883 

a (90) Oiit(rr-Dr 811 

(SHELLFIRE 

WlUlam EUlott-Jlm Daila 

Marie Windsor 

B^June 11—PO-1043 

(77) •utd'r-Dr 918 

OSAND 

Mark Sterens^ôleeo Gray 

Rory Calboun-Bob Patten 

R—Apr. 

3»—PO-1031 

Richard Wtdmark 

B—Au«. 6—PO-10B9 

03 (90) Outd'r-Dt 814 

©BRIMSTONE 

Rod Cameron-AdrlaD Bootk 

Walter Brainan 

Martin 

lUehard 

»—Aug. 37—PO-l»88 R—Aug. 20—PQ-1064 

B (89) Drama «B1 H (80) Weotern 867 

ROSEANNA McCOY BANDIT KING OF TEXAS 

Kaymond Massey 

"Rocky" Lane 

Allan 

Cbarles 

-Aug. 

Blckford-F. Qrangei 

30—PO-1063 

Eddy Waller-Jim Nolan 

B—Ort. 8—PO-1078 

X (77) Drama MS [H (89) Drama 4901 

EASY LIVING 

The Kid From Cleveland 

(94) Drama 

OCome to the Stable 

823 

Loretta Young-C. Holm 

nrtor Mitare-Uiellle Ball Oeorge Brent-Lynn Earl 

Hugh .Marlo»e-T. Gomes 

Cleveland 

Jiabetti Bcott-Sonny TuftJ 

J—Aug. 13— Pa-1063 

liQI (601 Tmveli^g 

R—S.DL 

g3 (60) 

IndlaiiB 

10—PO-1870 

Melodrama 

R—June 2B—P(H047 

OH 

81B 

SSAVAGE SPLENDOR Port Office Invertioator 

UHean Traieiog 

t->liily 3»—PO-IMT 

BQ (67) Outd'r-Mus 843 

©DOWN DAKOTA WAY 

Roy Rogers-Dale Etana 

'g (66) 

013 

Western 

gj (60) Drama 818 

FLAME OF YOUTH 

Barbra Fuller-D. Nolaa 

t—Oct. 

R—•ct. 39—PO-1888 

(103) Drama 067 g (601 Western 888 

)Sh« Wore a Yellmr RIkbm NAVAJO TRAIL RAIDERS 

ofan Wayne-Jouine Dru .\llan "RockT" Lane 

ota Agar-Bo) Jokmon Eddy Waller-D. Curtia 

(—July 30—PO-1087 R—dct, 29—PG-108J 

(66) Dt flB 

HE THREAT 

Uchael CSkea-V. Onj 

glle BIshop-B. Bkayna 

»—Oct. 29—PO-1083 

g (95) Drama 889 

HEY LIVE BY NIGHT 

"trley Granger-C. O'Donnell 

toward DeSllva-H Oalg 

I—June 26— PO-945 

(87) Oomedy 088 

IRIDE FOR SALE 

landette Colbert 

Sobert Toung-0. Brmt 

I—Oct. 39—PO-108S 

a] (60) Weatero 85 

Banner of ChankM Strip 

Monte Halc-Paol Hurst 

Monte Blu«-D. Kennedy 

R—No». 11—PO-109> 

61 (67) Ontd'r-Mus 844 

©Tilt Golden Stallion 

Roy Rogers-Dale Evans 

Pat Bridy-Koy Willing 

R—Nev 5—PO-1088 

20TH-FOX UNITED ARTISTS UNIV.-INT'L 

(89) Comedy 917 m (86) lirama i)lJ rSeTi Dr.init 

Happens Every Sprmi HOME OF THE BRAVE ONE WOMAN'S STORY 

6S7 

It 

Bdwards-Douglaa Dick 

y Ann TuddClaude 

Peters 

Balnt 

Kay MUland-Jean 

Paul Douglas-Alan Hale ]r. Lloyd Brldfies-Stere Brodle Treror Howard 

R—May 14—PQ-1036 R—Apr. 3(>—PG-1031 R—June 4— PO-1641 

H (61) Weelem 618 (94) Mystery 888 

DARING CABALLERO TAKE ONE FALSE STEP 

Duncan 

WUllam Powell-M. Hunt 

Benaldo 

I.ea CarrUlo 

R—Aug. 6—PG-10B9 

8. Wliiien-Jamea Gleaioa 

R—June 4— PO-1041 

(18B) Comedy 923 

Ul Wai a Male War Bridt 

Cary Grant-Ann Sheridan 

Marlon Marshall-R. Btuart 

R—Aug. 13—PG-1083 

(04) Drama 934 

THIEVES' HIGHWAY 

Richard Conte-Jack Oakle 

V. Cnrteae-Le« J. Cobb 

R_8ept. 10—PO-1078 

00 (89) Melodrama 60« 

TOO UTE FOR TEARS 

Lliabeth Kcott-P. Duryet 

n. DeFore-A. Kenoedj 

R—Apr. 16—PG- 1028 

P (94) Drama 611 

THE GREAT DAN PATCH 

Dennis 0-Ke«fe-B. Warrick 

Gall RuaseU-C. Qreenvrood 

R—July 23—PO-10B8 

!i^ (105) Melodrama 815 

BLACK MAGIC 

Orson Welles-Nancy (Mid 

Aklm Tamlrorr-F. Latlmora 

R—Aug. 27—PO-1066 

(85) Wmt-lir 889 

©CAUMITY JANE AND 

SAM BASS 

Tronne DeCarlo-H. Dutt 

R—June 11— PO-1044 

(60) Comedy 701 

WOMAN HATER 

Stewart Qranger-R. Bgulra 

Wwtge FeuUlere 

R—Sept »—PO-1087 

(75) Melodrama 708 

JOHNNY STOOL PIGEON 

Dan Duryca-lloward Duft 

SheUey Wlnlen 

R—July 23—PO-IOBB 

[S (lOB) Romance 704 

©THE BLUE LAGOON 

Jean Blmmona-N. Pureell 

Donald 

R—Aug 

Houston 

6—PO-1068 

(84) Com-Dr 701 

Abbott Coitello Meet 

and 

the Killer, Borli Karlofi 

B—Aug. 13—P(H061 

(93) Drama 783 

Onct More. My Darllni 

R. Montgomery- A. BIytfe 

Jane (Mwl-R. Winter* 

It-^nily 38—P(J-18B7 

(81) Muflcal rOB 

©Yes, Sir, That'i My Baby 

Donald •'Connor 

(diaries Oobura-O. DeHavn 

R—Aug. 10—PO-1084 

SS (84) Drama 81< (84) West-Drama 708 

RED LIGHT 

©Gal Who Took the West 

George Raft-Vlrtlnia May* Yvonne DcCarlo-Myma Dell 

Gene Lockhart-B. MacLan Cbarles Cobum-Scott Brady 

R— Aug. 28—PG-1868 R—Sept. 84—PG- 107 4 

m (80) Western 831 

SATAN'S CRADLE 

Duncan Renaldo-Ann Savage 

Leo Carrlllo-D. Fowley 

R—Not. 19—PO-1091 

(84) Comedy 93S ft! (69) Drama 

WITHOUT HONOR 

Father Was a Fullback 

Fred MacMurray-M OHari 

Day-Dane Clark 

(.aralne 

Lynn-Body VaUee Francbot Tone 

Betty 

B—Aug. 38—r01»84 R—Not. 13—PO-1089 

[B (91) Drama 818 

THE BIO WHEEL 

Mickey KDoney-M O'Sfcaa 

(98) Comedy 918 

EVERYBODY DOES IT 

Paul Douglas-L. Darnell 

Celeste Holm-C Cabnra rbomu MItchell-M RaUkv 

B—Rfjrt. 3—PO-106!' B—Not 13— PO-1889 

(93) Musical 937 1 

OOh, You Beautiful Doll 

June Haver-Jlark Stevens 

8. Z. 8akall-C. Greenwood 

R—Bept. 34—PO-1074 

I 

(100) Actloo-Dr 709 

SWORD IN THE DESERT 

Dana Andrewa-Marta Torn 

Btei>ha> McNally-H. rrsodl 

B—Sept. 8—PO-1088 

(79) Drama 707 

ABANDONED 

Dennis O'Keefe-M. Rambeao 

Gale Storm-Jeff Cliandler 

B—Oct. IB—PG- 1088 

WARNER BROS. 

3\ (113) Drama 817 

THE FOUNTAINHEAD 

Gary Oooper-Palrlcla Neal 

Raymond Uaaaey-K. Rmllk 

H—June 35—PO-1048 

n (r8) Drama (18 

Girl From Jonn Btach 

Virginia Mayo-K. Bracken 

Ronald Reac.ui-Dora Drake 

B—June 35—Pa-ie47 

99 (106) Muilcal 839 

UOLOOK FOR THE 

SILVER LINING 

June Haver- Ray Bolger 

B—July 2— PO-1049 

-Z BmU 

R^luly »—PO-lOei 

(104) Drama fJF n (98) Drama 888 

©Chriitooher Colusihui BEYOND THE FOREST 

P. Marcb-F. L. Sullivan Bette Dtvts-Jowpk Ootta 

Florene* Odrldce-D. Bond David BrIan-BDtIi Roman 

It—Oct IB—PG-1078 B—Oct. IS—po-ion 

(88) Comedy Ml 

FREE FOR ALL 

Ann Blytfc- Percy KllbrVJe 

M. BanmnyB Cnmlma 

B—Noe. 11—PG- 1098 

(83) Drama 901 

THE STORY OF MOLLY X 

Jun* Ravoc-Jotn Raaatll 

Dorothy Hart 

B—Nov. 19—PO-1081 

a (88) Oomedy 831 

©ll'i a Great FnIIdi 

Dermis Morgan-Doris Day 

Jack CvMn-Blll Goodwin 

R—July 30— PG-1088 

(S (114) Com-Uys 801 

WHITE HEAT 

James Cagney-V. Mai* 

Edmond O'Brien 

R—Aug. 37— PO-lOeS 

99 (69) Drama tM 

House Acroti tkt Strait 

Wa>-ne Morris 

JanLi Paige-Bruce BenDMt 

B— Aug. 20—po-ioes 

fi 1116) War Drao* M 

©TASK FORCE 

Gary Coop«r-Jant Wyatt 

Wa)ne Morrts-W. Bramoa 

B—Sept. S—PO-1068 

[J1 (117) Drama ««4 

©UNDER CAPRICORN 

Ingrtd Brrgman-J. OoUan 

Mlchaal WUdlog-C. Parkar 

B—Bept. 17—PO-lSTl 

n (93) Drai •r 

©Tht Story of SaoMicalt 

mrlry Teaple-B. PltKinld 

l.

SHORTS CHART 

Columbia 

Prod. No. ritK Rcl. Pate Rating Hev'd 

ASSORTED COMEDIES 

2411 Wiitlnj in the Lurch 

(I51/2) 9-8 + 11-19 

2421 Sup«r Wolf (16) 10-13 4+ 1-21 

24a Wha' HappenT (Iff/j) . .11-10 + 2-4 

2412 Lot Down Your Aerial 

(17) 11-17 ± 3-11 

2423 Frtnch Fried Frolic 

12- 8 

(Igi/g) 

2413 Hi$ Baiting Beaoty (18) 1-12 ± 2-U 

2424 Hold That Monkey (..).. 2-16 

2414 Oiizy Yardhird (I6V2) 3- 9 

. . 

2415 Karinated Mariner (..).. 3-30 

CAVALCADE OF BROADWAY 

2651 6tft Setioty (11) 11-17 ± 1-21 

2652 Blue Angel (lO/a) 1-26 

COLOR FAVORITES 

(Technicolor Reissues) 

UN Two Laiy Crows (7) 7-13 

1949-50 SEASON 

afiBlTli. Fo«y Pup (7).^.... 9- 1 •• 

2602 Window Shopping (7V2)10- 

6 4+ 3-11 

260} Happy Tot« (7) 11-3 + ^'V- 

204 Hollywoad Sweepstakes 

12- 1 

(8) 

2605 Poor Elmer (8) 12-29 ± 2-U 

2606 Ye Olde Swap Shoppe (8) 1-19 + 2-U 

2607 Kangaroo Kid (7Vi) 2-2 ••• 

2608 Tom Thumb's Brother (7) 3-23 ± 3-18 

COMEDY FAVORITES 

(Reissues) 

MHThrc* Blonde Mice (16).. 9-29 + U-19 

2«SZTha Spook Speaks (18). 10-20 +f 1-7 

24S5L


Proil. Wo. Title Rel. Date Rating Rev'd 

DRIBBLE PUSS PARADE 

9901 Satisfied Saurians (9) Mv. + 

FEMININE WORLD 

9601 Talented Beautio (Vy>yan 

Donner) (U) June + 

9602 Fashions of Yesteryear 

(lllia Chase) (8) Not. + 

MARCH OF TIME 

Vol. 15, No. 3 Wish You Were Here 

(IS) Mar. + 

Vol. 15, t .Jan. H 

3002 From Jib to Topsail (9).. Feb. -f 

3051 ©Frolic in Sports (9) Mar. 

TERHYTOONS 

(Technicolor) 

9504 Sourpuss in Dingbat Land 

(7) Mir. 

9505 The Talking Magpies In the 

Lion Hunt (7) Mir. ± 

9506 The Talking Magpies In the 

Stovraways (7) Apr. + 

9507 Mighty Mouse in a Cold 

Romance (7) Apr. 

9508 The Kitten Sitter (7) May ± 

9521 Hook, Line and Sinker 

(7) (reissue) May 

9509 Tile Talking Magpies in 

Happy Landing (7) Jim ± 

9522 Catnip Capers (7) (reissue) June 

9510 Mighty Mouse in the Catnip 

Gang (7) June + 

9511 Ttie Talking Magpies in Hula 

Hula July (7) 

9512 The Lyin' Lion (7) July + 

9513 Mrs. Jones' Rest Farm 

(7) Aug. 

9514 Sourpuss in the Covered 

Pushcart (7) Sept 

9515 A Truckload of Trouble 

(7) 0«t 

9516 Mighty Mouse in the Perils 

. . . of Pearl Pureheart (7) Oct 

9517 The Talking Magpies in 

Dancing Shoes (7) Nov. 

9518 Flying Cups and Saucers 

(7) Hat. 

Paint Dec 

9519 Pot Symphony (7) . . 

9520 Mighty Mouse in Stop, Look 

and Listen (7) Dec 

1950 SERIES 

5001 Comic Book Und (7) Jan. 

5021 Mississippi Swing (7) 

(reissue) 

Jan. 

5002 The Talking Magpies in 

the Fox Hunt (7) H 1-7 

Fab. 

5022 What Happens at Night 

(7) (reissue) Feb. 

5003 Victor the Volunteer in Better 

Ufe Than Nevtr (7). Mar. 

5004 Mighty Mouse In Antl-CaU 

O) "» 

+ 

7- 2 

7-30 

10-29 

7- 2 

7-23 

10-29 

+ U-19 

•f 10- B 

+ 10-lS 

Universal-International 

Rel. 

Date Rating Rev'd 

-(- 

S-28 

6-18 

6-18 

10-15 

9- 3 

U- S 

U- S 

1-14 

SHORTS CHART

SHORTS REVIEWS Opinions on the Current Sftorf Subjects - 

Candid Microphone 

Columbia (AlanFunt) 10»/4 Mlns. 

Very good. Alan Funt, radio and television 

star, hides his camera and microphone from 

his unsuspecting victims. He pretends to be 

an instructor in a ballet school, a service 

station attendant and a haberdashery salesman. 

In each case the customer is always 

wrong. He gets many laughs when he disagrees 

with them but finally lets them in on 

the prank. 

Dopey Dicks 

Columbia (Stooge Comedy) 15 »4 Mins. 

Good. The Three Stooges are cleaning the 

office of a private detective when a beautiful 

blond arrives and says her life is in danger. 

The trio pretend to be sleuths and follow 

the girl to a haunted house. There they are 

chased by two mad scientists who are trying 

to create a mechanical man. The stooges 

rescue the girl and manage to outwit the 

scientists. 

It Was Only Yesterday 

Columbia (Screen Snapshots) 10 Mins. 

Good. James Gleason recalls the days of 

the war when Hollywood stars entertained at 

various army camps. There are flashbacks 

to many of the shows, and the performers are 

Groucho Marx, Kay Kyser, Edgar Bergen, 

Jimmy Stewart, Judy Canova, Fred Allen, 

Rudy Vallee, Jack Benny, Mary Livingston 

and the late Carole Landis, all doing humorous 

bits. 

Tom Thumb's Brother 

Columbia (Color Favorites) 7 Mins. 

Fair. Tom Thumb's brother, Pee Wee, is so 

small he has to use a magnifying glass to 

see him. An alley cat wanders into their home 

and pursues Tom. Pee Wee grabs a darning 

needle and tries to help the brother. A mad 

scramble ensues, with Pee Wee clumsily 

harming Tom more than the cat. The brothers 

finally best the cat, which takes to the 

woods. In Technicolor. It is a 1946 reissue. 

Breezy Little Bears 

Paramount (Champion—Reissue) 11 Mins. 

Very good. This was first released in 1940, 

so that it will be new for youngsters. The 

three cubs get into all sorts of scrapes, from 

stealing pies to being chased by their animal 

neighbors. There are some hilarious escapades, 

particularly one where the bears are 

attacked by a truculent goose. Their curiosity 

about a cowbarn is also amusing. 

Devouring Thru Maine 

Paramount (Screen Song) 7 Mins. 

Good. It is a cartoon parody of a travelog 

in Technicolor and should draw where bouncing 

ball tunes are popular. The tune is the 

"Maine Stein Song." Various spots in Maine 

are satirized. Bar Harbor is shown eis a 

glorified tavern and the famous deer hunting 

grounds feature the two-legged variety rather 

than the antlered kind. Narration is extra 

good. 

Fatmyard Symphony 

RKO (Disney Cartoon) 8 Mins. 

Very good. A reissue of one of the outstanding 

Disney cartoons of the past few 

years. It blends classical music and clever 

animation to perfection. The locale is an old 

farm and, as the various animals awaken, they 

rush to their mothers for breakfast. One 

little pig gets a pusliing around but finally 

gets caught under some tumbling corn. He 

works his way out munching on an ear of 

corn. AH the animal sounds are worked into 

the operatic music background. 

Football Headliners 

RKO (Special) 17 Mins. 

Good. All sports fans will be interested in 

this review of important sports headlines that 

football audiences have devoured during the 

past season. The action by teams shown includes: 

Army vs. Michigan, Oklahoma vs. 

Texas, California vs. Tulane, Ohio State vs. 

Michigan, Pennsylvania vs. Cornell and Army 

vs. Navy. Also shown are such football stalwarts 

as Leon Hart, Robert Williams, Arnold 

Galiffa of Army, Tonnemaker of Minnesota 

and Emil Sitko of Notre Dame. It's all fast 

stuff and well photographed. 

Slide, Donald, Slide 

RKO (Disney Cartoon) 8 Mins. 

Good. Donald Duck tangles with a busy 

little bee with disastroiis results for Donald. 

The bee starts conducting to the music issuing 

from the radio when Donald appears 

and switches the dial to listen to the ball 

game. The angry bee switches the dial back 

and the struggle continues until the winner 

proves to be—the bee, of course. 

Southern A Cappella 

United Artists (Songs of America) 8 Mins. 

Good. Several fine Negro voices are heard 

in two early spirituals, "Dis Ol' Hammer" 

and "Get on Board, Little Chillun." The first 

shows a group of railroad workers laying 

tracks and the second shows a crowd of 

women and children waiting for the arrival 

of the Glory Train. The singing is rich and 

well-blended. 

Cherished Melodies 


Good. "My Old Kentucky Home" and 

"Hem Golden SUppers" are the choral numbers 

heard in this version of a series. The 


Good. Here is another in the song-short 

series produced by W. Lee Wilder. The spirituals 

heard are "Deep River" and "Little 

David, Play on Your Harp." The Negro chorus 

appears against a wharf setting and a cotton 

patch. Male and female Negro voices handle 

both spirituals expertly. 

f^ ff^^ 

NeWSrCe/s 

Movietone News, No. 20: New agreement 

ends coal strike; Prince Bernhard hailed in 

Brazil; Mrs. Barkley aids Easter seal drive; 

Cardinal SpeUman marks Holy Year in Rome; 

federal men raid moonshine still; fEishions 

for men; baseball training. 

News of the Day, No. 254: Coal strike ends; 

Cardinal Spellman leads pilgrims into St. 

Peter's; streamlined brevity popular in Florida; 

junior ballet stars; Harlem globe trotters. 

Paramount News, No. 57: Coal pact ends 

long dispute; ItaUan troops leaving for Africa; 

refugees in Norway; big fire in Montreal's 

Chinatown; Cardinal SpeUman leads U.S. pilgrims 

in Rome; baseball makes its pitch for 

spring. 

Universal News, No. 332: Coal strike over; 

Spellman leads 500 tlirough Holy Door; white 

queen in Africa; German magicians; basketball—Globe 

Trotters vs. Philadelphia. 

Warner Pathe News, No. 59: Coal strike 

ended; Prince Bernhard; Princess Juliana in 

Switzerland; WAC fashions; sports—rugby, 

basketball, flamingo race; historical locations 

—Lexington and Concord. 

Movietone News, No. 21: Mercy doctor 

acquitted; Judy Coplon convicted; Darryl F. 

Zanuck gets film award; speaking of taxes; 

baseball training—New York Giants, New 

York Yankees, Boston Braves; Golden Gloves. 

News of the Day, No. 255: Chiang rallies 

troops; Judy Coplon gets 15 years; Dr. Sander 

acquitted; Red riots in France; Pope welcomes 

U.S. pilgrims; Yankees warm up; bull 

fight. 

Paramount News, No. 58: Touring the baseball 

training camps of the New York Giants, 

New York Yankees and the Boston Braves; 

Chiang resumes presidency; Bob Hope in new 

role; Coplon convicted; Sander acquitted; 

planes lead flow of arms to Europe. 

Universal News, No. 333: Sander acquitted; 

Coplon and Gubitchev convicted; French aircraft 

carrier; Spellman and the Pope; buU 

fight; baseball spring training; Golden 

Gloves. 

Warner Pathe News, No. 60: King Qeorge 

opens ParUament; French president visits 

Great Britain; Coplon and Gubitchev guilty; 

15 die in plane crash; first films from Formosa; 

Dr. Sander innocent; Army-Navy basketball; 

Yankees start training; Golden 

Gloves. 

• 

All American News, No. 386: Interracial 

day plans are made in New Orleans; Jackson, 

Miss., college teaches safe driving; career in 

backgrounds are simple and do not distract 

from the rich harmonies. The first setting is 

Washington makes job plans; two rookies attend 

Hornsby baseball school in Hot Springs, 

a stretch of lawn beside a stream and the 

Ark. 

second is a bandstand decorated with golden 

• 

slippers. 

Telenews Digest, No. lOA: Coal strike settled; 

"Flying Arrow" comes home; white 

Tradition 

queen in Africa; 2,000-year-old relics; ultramodern 

house; shrines of Palestine. 

Telenews Digest, No. lOB: Coplon sentenced; 

more Red charges; Dr. Sander freed; 

water shortage threatens Mexico; administration 

of a former colony is returned to 

Italy; art students attend their first "real" 

art exhibition in New York City; annual 

American toy fair; six compete for title of 

Miss Finland; baseball spring training. 

14 BOXOFTICE BookinGuide :: March 18, 1950

Opinions on Current Productions; Exploitips for Selling to the Public 

FEATURE REVIEWS 

(FOB BTOBT SYNOPSIS ON EACH PICTURE, SEE RETEB8E BIDE) 

Tile Big Hangover 

F 

Comedy 

MGM ( ) 82 Minutes Rel. May '50 

Van Johnson and Elizabeth Taylor caper brightly through 

a generally entertaining comedy which amusingly attempts 

to satirize problem drinking. It was written, directed and 

produced by Norman Krosna who uses the antic approach 

and even refers jokingly to "The Lost Weekend" in one line. 

Because both stars will attract average patrons, it can top 

the bill in almost any type of theatre. Johnson gives one 

ol his most engaging portrayals as an ex-GI allergic to 

liquor and Miss Taylor, as the girl who cures him, gives a 

charming performance and looks exquisitely beautiful 

throughout. The musical score by Adolph Deulsch adds 

lively touches with one sequence showing the intoxicated 

Johnson riding in a cab to the love music from "Tristan 

and Isolde." Gene Lockhart, whose name value has increased 

since he starred on Broadway in "Death of a Salesman," 

and Percy Waram are outstanding. 

Van Johnson, Elizabeth Taylor, Percy Waram, Gone Lockhart, 

Fay Holden, Leon Ames, Rosemary DeCamp. 

Singing Guns 

p 

Western Drama 

(Trucolor) 

Republic (4909) 91 Minutes Rel. Feb. 23. '50 

At first blush the thought of casting an orchestra leader 

and sophisticated crooner—in this instance Vaughn Monroe 

—as a gun-totin' outlaw of the rugged west would appear 

to border closely upon the ludicrous. But Monroe, in his 

screen debut, is completely convincing and, to make sure 

that no bets were overlooked, he was provided with a superior 

sagebrush plot; a name-weighty supporting cast in 

which Walter Brennan, Ward Bond and Ella Raines contribute 

characteristically good performances; eye-arresting, 

Trucolor-photographed natural backgrounds; and a bumper 

crop of shootin', sluggin' and saddle action. Amid it all 

Monroe finds time to render three deftly-interpolated ballads, 

including the popular "Mule Train." Such assets, particularly 

in view of Monroe's vast following as a radio and 

recording star, should make the selling problem an easy one. 

Expertly directed by R. G. Springsteen. 

Vaughn Monroe, Ella Raines, Waller Brennan, Ward Bond, 

Jelf Corey, Barry Kelley, Harry Shannon. 

Tarnished 

Hopublic (4910) 60 Minutes Rel. Mar. 28. '50 

Its compact running time and a straightforward story approach 

are predominant among the assets which qualify this 

as a serviceable piece of celluloid merchandise, manufactured 

for and equipped to account for itself creditably 

in that lower-half-of-the-bill spot. The vehicle can boast 

nothing in the way of star names to carry the thespian 

chores, but the cast generally is hard-working and 

competent, and the productional framework measures 

up to the budgetary classification into which the 

feature falls. As concerns merchandising possibilities, one 

hook, upon which alert showmen may bo able to capitalize, 

is suggested in the plot line, in which the principal character 

is an ex-convict, who overcomes prejudice and discrimination 

in his efforts to go straight. The yarn moves along 

logically to its expected satisfactory climax under the direction 

of Harry Keller. 

Arthur Franz, Dorothy Patrick, Barbra Fuller, James Lydon, 

Harry Shannon, Don Beddoe, Byron Barr, Alex Gerry. 

The Bicycle Thief 

Mayer-Burstyn 89 Minutes Rel. 

Still another realistic and moving Italian-language feature 

which has already been acclaimed as the outstanding foreign 

film of the year. Less dramatic than either "Open City ' 

or 

"Shoe-Shine," recent memorable Italian pictures, the story is 

simple and tremendously effective and the production is a 

masterpiece of its kind. The publicity attendant on its 

numerous awards, such as the National Board of Review and 

the New York Film Critics, will insure strong grosses in art 

houses, despite the absence of familiar foreign names. It 

can also play many dowmtown houses in key cities and in 

neighborhoods where Italians predominate. Under the superb 

direction of Vitiorio DeSica, who also directed "Shoe- 

Shine," two film newcomers, Lamberto Maggiorani, as an 

unfortunate bill poster, and Enzo Staiola, as a completely 

natural and appealing youngster, give notable performances. 

Mayer-Burstyn is at 113 West 42nd St., New York City. 

Lamberto Maggiorani, Lianella Carell. Enio Staiola, Elena 

Altieri. Vittorio Antonucci. Gino Sollomeranda. 

1126 

BOXOFFICE 

F 

The Whipped 

United Artists (633) 89 Minutes ReL June 2, '50 

Because performances are universally good, this tough 

saga of crime contrives to transcend the hurdles placed in its 

path by a hard-to-foUow, confusing story which undertook 

to include too many plot facets. Producer Hal Chester 

mounted the vehicle impressively enough so that it can 

carry the top side ol the program, a niche for which its running 

time and its name-laden cast earmark it. Another 

asset^-and along with the cast it presents the best merchandising 

angle— lies in the authenticity of atmosphere, most 

especially during the early sequences. Duryea as a smart, 

but none-too-honest, newspaper reporter finds a part made to 

order for his talents and he plays it across eight columns, 

while other delineations are comparably convincing There's 

a hint of preachment for tolerance but it is secondary to the 

crime and action phases. Ably directed by Cyril Endfield. 

Dan Duryea, Herbert Marshall. Gale Storm, Howard DaSilTO, 

Michael O'Shea. Mary Anderson, Gar Moore. 

Under My Skin 

20lh-Fox (008) 86 Minutes Rel. 

Hollywood's current passion for employing foreign backgrounds 

and authentic locales for its celluloid drama herein 

reaches the point where a story of the turf is subjected to 

such treatment. In this instance, however, the overseas 

atmosphere (much of it was filmed in Rome and Paris) very 

nearly overshadows the plot, which is at best an inconsequential 

one even though it stemmed from the fertile pen of 

Ernest Hemingway. It is unlikely that any audience, unless 

it be composed of dyed-in-wool fans of the sport of kings, 

will react with more than ordinary interest to the yarn, which 

has a tendency to ramble and is never entirely believable. 

From the selling standpoint there is the name of John Garfield, 

contributing his customary solid performance, while 

another asset in her American debut is Micheline Prelle, 

French actress of abundant talent and beauty. Directed by 

Jean Negulesco. 

John Gariield, Micheline Prelle. Luther Adler, Orloy Lindgren. 

Noel Drayton, A. A. Merola. Ott George. 

Tyrant of the Sea 

Columbia (208) 70 Minutes Rel. Apr., '50 

Adventure dramas from historical incidents have had an 

endless cycle since pictures began and will probably always 

be used for program fare, which is what this is. Costumes 

and swordplay exemplify the time in which the story is laid 

but the heart of the picture is concerned with the power 

of command and the upholding of authority. Iron men have 

been grudgingly admired by those who realize there ore 

times when such men are useful to the state and yet it is 

a queer satisfaction to find their weakness lies in the home, 

where they may be engagingly henpecked. There is also 

some young romance in the picture and the acting is good, 

with convincing action scenes. The brutality in it may bother 

the squeamish but on the whole it has a quality somewhat 

above the average dualer. It will lend itself to nautical lobby 

exploitation. Lew Landers directed. 

Rhys Williams, Ron Handell, Valentine Perkins. Doris Lloyd, 

Lester Matthews, Harry Cording. Terry Eilbum. 

Blondie's Hero 

Columbia (206) 67 Minutes R»L Mar. 9, '50 

•y 

More of the same type of wacky goings-on is here, with 

the Bumstead family In fine fettle along the lines of fare 

and slapstick. Dogwood going through the rigors of training 

as a member of the army reserve gives a different slant, 

since the office routine of having him fired and rehired under 

Blondie's shrewd manipulation of sudden turns of events has 

about run out. The success of this Blondie opus will depend 

largely on the popularity of previous pictures in the series 

and on the way its army sequences are exploited as good 

fun in that field. Daisy and her pups and the postman can 

„. . 

fo. be counted on for the usual interest and there is a phony 

real estate racket exposed which also has exploitation possibilities. 

Limited in its boxoffice appeal to the spots where 

the Bumsteads are always welcome and Blondie's fading 

charms are loyally ignored Edward Bemds directed 

Penny Singleton. Arthur Lake, Lorry Simms. Marjorie Kant 

William Frawley. Danny Mummort. Joe Sawyer. 

March 18, 1950 1125 

F 

F

FEATURE REVIEWS Story Synopsis; Adlines for Newspaper and Programs 

THE STORY: 

"The Whipped" 

Having run oioul of Michael O'Shea, big-ciiy district attorney, 

Dan Duryea, an unethical reporter, borrows money 

from. Racketeer Howard DaSilva and buys a partnership 

in a small-town paper. When the daughter-in-law of Herbert 

Marshall, newspaper tycoon, is murdered, evidence 

Mary denies it; Gar Moore, Marshall's neurotic son, confesses 

the crime to his father and persuades him to launch ^j^ 

a news campaign to prove Mary guilty. Although Dan believes 

Mary is the slayer, O'Shea tricks him out of the re- 

' 

ward for turning her in, so Dan, through his newspaper, 

comes to her defense. Moore talks DaSilva into capturing 

and torturing Duryea, but the police rescue Dan and Marshall 

kills his guilty son. 

CATCHLINES: 

Dramatic Dynamite 

Front Page History . 

... As a 

. Blasting 

Fighting 

His Way 

Reporter 

Into Gangland's 

Makes 

. 

Lair . . . Defying Death to Get the Hottest Story of the Year.

- 1 lioations 

' ill 

jSATES: 10c per word, minimum Sl.OO, cash witn copy. Four insertions lor price ol three. 

CLOSING DATE: Monday noon preceding publication date. Send copy and answers to 

i» Box Numbers to BOXOFFICE, 825 Van Brunt Blvd., Kansas City 1, Mo. • 

Experienced manager for new drive-in theatre, 

ocated New York area. Year 'round position. 

food Mso concession manager. Replies «1U be 

.reated in strict confidence. State salary and 

apcrience. Bo.xoffice, 3776. 

cLtflfiine Houst 

HELP WANTED GEN. EQUIPMENT—USED (Cont'd) EQUIPMENT WANTED THEATRES FOR SALE (Cont'd) 

Need extra casli? Manager, operators—daytime, 

:ell your neigiibortiood merctianls advertising gift.s, 

:alendars. pencils, matclles, etc. Average order 

larns $25. Free samples. Kincole, 8916 Linwood. 

Detroit, 

Mich. 

I'm loojdng for neat, reliable man, capable of 

ellef booth worl; ;uid front house and doorman 

lutieo. Gnariuiteed good wage. Steady job for 

Igln man. No boozers. See or call M. R. Blair. 

Regent Tlioatri'. Cedar Falls, Iowa. 

Manager for large modern drive-in theatre to be 

ômiiicted shortly in large Southern city. Year 

irooiid operation. State experience, age, refernct". 

.ivailabilily. family and salary expected in 

ir~t letter. Write Boxoffice. 3798. 

Managers for l)rivc-In or conventional theatres 

nted in Wisconsin. I'ermanent all year employnent 

with fast growing circuit. Write Boxoffice. 

J807. .\ll inquiries treated confidential. 

Assistant drlve-in matuger. Sign artist. Single. 

)ppi)rtunity learn business. Sell yourself in letter, 

3tate age, salary, typewriting speed. Enclose snap- 

Boxofflce. 3809. 

Operator, do cleaning, automatic heat, small 

)hio town theatre. Good salary. Permanent position. 

Immediate. State experience and reference, 

lack O'Connell Loop Theatre Bldg., Toledo, Ohio. 

Nationally famous independent Eastern theatre 

'hain is interested in a few outstanding theatre 

r-'iigers. If you would like to go with a 

company where progress depends completely 

.nur ability, this Is your opportunity. All 

will be held in strictest confidence, 

I would like an interview, please give your 

xperience and other qualifications. Arrangement; 

an be made to see you at your earliest convent 

Box 310, Boxoffice. 9 Rockefeller Plaza, 

New York City. 

POSITIONS WANTED 

600 American Seating Company upholstered theare 

Wanted: Pair ol Holmes 3omm portables with 

Mazda lamps, amplifier and speaker. Must be 

chairs. Simplex rear shutter projection ma- 

hines. Brenkert Senarc projection lamps. One good. Give serial numbers, size or lens and lowest 

KW Roth generator. Pedestals. Magazines. Clnephor 

cash price, Boxoffice. 3811. 

lenses. Miscellaneous projection booth equip- 

ment, reels, etc. RCA PG 130 sound system. Red 

velour curtain 14x22 opening: curtain track: curtain 

control. Screen. M;mley Lifetime Popcorn 

machine. Candy case. $3,900. f.ob. Great Bend, 

Kas, Contact Lloyd W, Morris, Kansan Theatre, 

Great Bend. Kas, 

Bargain— Complete 

ondit i. 

Pahi' 

Motors—One 5 h. p.. 220 volt, 3 phase GE 

ISOO RPM motor, $30: one 5 h. p., 220-volt, 3 

phxse 1750 RPM Robblns and Meyers motor, $30. 

FOB. Cleveland, lliese are ide;il tor blower systems. 

Write or call National Theatre Supply Co., 

2128 Payne Ave , Cleveland, Ohio. Phone: PRospect 

1-4613. 

EQUAL TO NEW. Holmes or DeVry .'iSmm projector 

with 2.000' mag,, sound. Single proj. $300 

pair $500. Ideal Film & Supply Co., Inc., 630 

9th Avenue. New York 19. N. Y. 

lightly used velour auditorium 

size Eddie Joseph. P. 0. Box 

Theatre chairs. Many used reconditioned Sim- 

X and Powers Projectors. Screens. Lone Stat 

Im ('«.. Halla.s, Tex. 

Lobby concession bar. nearly new, contatas electric 

popcorn warmer, bottle cooler, has serving 

counter, green tufted leatherette sides, 

39x82"— $200. f.o.h. Anaheim. E. 

floor 

D. 

space 

Seekins, 

P, 0. Box 469, Anaheim. Calif. 

GENERAL EQUIPMENT—NEW 

New, too? Yesiree! With cooperation of manufacturers 

S.O.S. has assemljled latest booth equipments 

for theatres, $2,950: drive-ins, $3,950. 

Actu.illy 50% of market price! Time deals and 

trades, too! Dept. C. S.O.S, Cinema Supply Corp., 

602 W, 52nd St., New York 19. 

THEATRES WANTED 

Sell your theatre privately. Confidential correspondence 

Invited. 

Leak Theatre Sales, 3422 

Klnmorc. Dallas. 1109 Orchardlane. Des Moines, 

Iowa. 

Theatres, Nebr.aska. western Iowa, northern 

Kansas. No brokers. Over 400 seats. Town 1,800 

population or over. Confidential. Experienced. L. 

J, Burkltt. Sparta, Wis, 

Wanted: Good paying theatres to sell in Texas, 

]nly Joe" Joseph, Texas' Theatre Broker. 8611 

gard Drive. Dallas. Tex. Phone E6-6289. 

Want to lease drive-in concession. Prefer Memphis 

exchange are;i, Boxoffice, 3775, 

Individual wants small town theatre, non-competitive. 

Approximately $10,000 down. Northeastern 

preferred. 0. R. Oklahoma Beasley, 1701 

West Baston St., Tulsa, Okla. 

Wanted: Profitable theatre, clean, no competition 

preferred. Priced right for cash. Boxoffice, 

3796, 

Movie theatres. Representing "buyers" who desire 

motion picture theatres and outdoor drive-ln 

theatres and "showmen" who desire to sell their 

theatres. De Blaslo 4 Saunders. Hotel Olcott, 27 

West 72nd St.. New York City, TR 7-4200. 

Spending three weeks invesligatlnR any worthwhile 

theatre properiies $55,000 will handle, large 

or small. Midwest only. All letters answered. 

Confidential, Boxoffice, 3805. 

Filn- 

nth. 

Atlas 

Theatre, new in 1946. Located in central Ml(*- 

in. 320 scats: modern: new Simplex machines: 

oil heal: air conditioning: $30,000 will handle, 

nee like rent. Boxoffice, 3792. 

Showing $1,000 monthly protit. Seattle nclghbiiiliiiod. 

500 seats: good equipment. Excellent 

concession |)ays running expenses. Showman can 

doiihle mofit. Lowest overhead. $10,000 handles. 

Uoxoffice, 3793, 

Texas. 

Projectionist, 20 years experience. Single, sober, 

anywhere. Available now. Kenneth Doty, Ran- 

{0 

Kas. Phone S.'iRll. 

Projectionist, 20 year.s experience, dependable, 

sober, references. Desire permanent employment 

In West. C. W'ilsey. 798 So. 8th St., San Jose, 

Calif 

A-1 projectionist, repairs; colorful sign displays. 

Single, Fustor. IS24 Weltori St., Denver, Colo. 

Projectionist. 

Go anywhere: n 

office. 3806. 

Manager, 32, single, desires change. Same employer 

5 years. Best references, .\vailable 2 weeks 

notice. Prefer West Virginia. Virginia, Ohio or 

Kentucky. A. I. Brandenburg, Box 9156, Huntn. 

W. Va. 

Manager with lifetime experience theatre business, 

knows same thoroughly. Built, owned, managed 

many theatres, big business producer, never 

had failure. Retired, now single, locate any- 

'. Salary no object. T. Williams. General 

Delivery, West Palm Beach, Fla,

The Prize Baby's 

TEN COMMANDMENTS 

1. THE EXHIBITOR is the vital bond between the motion picture 

industry and the public. 

2. THE EXHIBITOR is the person on whom we depend for funds 

to pay our salaries and all the other costs of 

our business. 

3. THE EXHIBITOR supplies bookings: it is our job to supply his 

service— promptly, efficiently, accurately. 

4. THE EXHIBITOR merits the utmost in considerate attention and 

courteous treatment. 

5. THE EXHIBITOR is not a mere account number; he is a human 

being with likes and dislikes, just as ourselves. 

6. THE EXHIBITOR is not a hindrance in our day's work: he is the 

reason for it. 

7. THE EXHIBITOR may make an occasional error, the same as we 

do: to correct it swiftly is more important than 

to worry about placing the blame. 

f- 

8. THE EXHIBITOR has a multitude of duties apart from N.S.S.; 

we should avoid adding to his problems. 

9. THE EXHIBITOR is not someone to quibble or find fault with. 

10. THE EXHIBITOR is the person most essential to our business— 

our customer. 

i^

Im

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