International projectionist (Oct 1931-Sept 1933)

October 1931 INTERNATIONAL PROJECTIONIST 13 the sound effectively into the free air. For best results the cross sectional area should gradually flare from the small end to the large end, according to an exponential mathematical formula, hence the name of "exponential" horn. In order to effectively handle low notes, the length of the air column must be over half the wave-length of the sound. The 15-type horns have air columns about 14 feet long and are curved for economy of space. Proper Positioning To obtain the maximum amount of realism, the horns are positioned behind the screen and about one-third down from the top of the picture. On an average, the mouth of anyone speaking on the screen is at this position. Different theatres vary enormously with regard to their acoustical qualities, and to obtain the best distribution of sound in all theatres, it is necessary to deal with each case separately. The flare and tilt of horns are carefully determined by Western Electric engineers, and under no circumstances should they be altered. Expert acoustical engineers visit each theatre immediately after installation and then periodically, in order to ascertain, together with other items, if the quality of reproduction and the distribution is up to the standard called for by Western Electric. In replacing the horns after they have been moved, be sure to get them back in position exactly as located by the engineers. In order to do this it is advisable to have positioning pins dropping through a portion of the horn towers into holes in the stage. Even a movement of an inch or so from the correct position may result in uneven distribution, and in some theatres, interference of the sound or echoes may be encountered. NEW USE FOR SOUND FILMS A recent report states that novel evidence, which may have far-reaching effect, is being tendered in a trial in Melbourne, in which a dairy company is being sued for damages because of loud noises which continually disturb the sleep of the plaintiff in the action. A sound recording company was engaged by the plaintiff to record the disturbing noises, and the sound reproduction is to be shown as evidence when the case is tried. Some question arose regarding sound distortion, and the fact that if the film was reproduced in a room the sound would be magnified. The judge is reported to have stated that he would hear the reproduction and form his own opinions. In obtaining the record, a microphone was placed a few inches from the windowsill of the plaintiff's bedroom, and the record was taken, including the reproduction of an ordinary voice for purposes of comparison. ALLIANCE ITEMS Illinois State Organization Meets THE State Organization of Projectionists convened at Galesburg, 111., September 14th, at which time the locals represented decided on an increase in per capita tax, a certain percentage of which sum will apply ot the legislative fund, created in an endeavor to have certain measures and bills introduced at the next session of Congress. The local unions affected fully appreciate the recompense should their efforts meet with success, and are overlooking no possible aid to accomplish their end. Important Work by Florida Council ALL local unions in the State of Florida, with one exception, had proper representation at the meeting of the Florida State Council, held in Tampa, Fla., which was devoted to the discussion of new contracts. Measure was voted upon and passed whereby this body shall be known as above captioned, and will continue to hold periodical meetings. A great deal of time was spent debating on legislation which would be of material benefit to the various local organizations, and it is anticipated that good results will be obtained from the combined efforts of the locals working as a unit. New I. A. Local at Nanty Glo, Pa. INVESTIGATION of charter application for Nanty Glo, Pa., revealed that all requirements specified by the International Constitution and By-Laws had been complied with. Therefore, proper obligation of members, installation of officers and charter was performed by Secretary Lawrence Katz of the Fourth District, and constructive information and advice was given for the successful conduction of the affairs of the new organization. Any Amplifier Equipment Requires I. A. Man ON several occasions it has been called to the attention of the General Office that traveling companies have been moving about the country carrying amplifiers, etc., and getting by our local unions without having placed a member of our Alliance. Naturally, when they arrive at the next stand and are informed of the International requirements, they relate the position maintained at the preceding point and strenuously protest, feeling that they are being imposed upon. Indifference, neglect or unfamiliarity with the International By-Laws may be responsible for this condition, which was brought to the attention of the Delegates at the Thirtieth Convention in Los Angeles, in the form of Resolution No. 13, which was unanimously adopted. As this type of attraction appears to be increasing in number with the advent of the new season, special attention should be brought to bear in an endeavor to strictly enforce the requirements. Resolution No. 13 is herewith reprinted : To THE Officers and Delegates of the 30th Biennial Convention of the I. A. T. S. E. & M. P. M. 0. of the United AND Canada! BE IT RESOLVED, That Article 5, Section 4, Page 55 of the By-Laws, which reads as follows: "Any vaudeville act carrying stereopticons, spot, flood or effect lamps (such as waterfall, fire, cloud, lightning effects, etc.) or sufficient other electrical apparatus, shall be required to employ a member of this Alliance to care for and operate such squipment," be changed to read as follows: "Any vaudeville act carrying public address machines, practical radio sets, amplifying equipment, television apparatus, stereopticons, spot, flood or effect lamps (such as waterfall, fire, cloud, lightning effects, etc.) or sufficient other electrical apparatus, shall be required to employ a member of the Alliance to care for and operate such equipment." Tenth District Meets in Syracuse A THREE-DAY Convention of the Tenth District, which is comprised of all local unions in the State of New York, was held in Syracuse, N. Y., recently. A keen interest was displayed by the attending delegates and many questions of mutual interest were discussed. The problem of dual organizations received considerable attention, and the District went on record to assist any local within the District who found themselves troubled by such organizations. /. A. Executive Board Meets at Vancouver IN accordance with the usual custom, the General Executive Board of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employes and Moving Picture Machine Operators of the United States and Canada held sessions in conjunction with attendance at the American Federation of Labor Convention, which convened at the Vancouver Hotel, Vancouver, B. C. on Monday, October 5th, 1931. All Charges and Appeal cases handled by the General Office subsequent to the General Executive Board meeting of last July, were submitted to the Board for consideration, as well as all other matters requiring immediate attention.