Motion Picture News (Oct 1913 - Jan 1914)

:x THE MOTION PICTURE NEWS INTERNATIONAL DELEGATES MEET Propose Consolidation of Two Exhibitors' Organizations if M. A. Neff Will Retire — Demand Mileage for Last July's National Convention — Chicago Gathering Harmonious, Enthusiastic and Well Attended DELEGATES of the International Motion Picture Association met in Chicago at the LaSalle Hotel on December 18 and 19, convened harmoniously and discussed intelligently and at length several subjects of vital importance to the industry at large, and especially to the exhibitors of the country It was felt by those who attended that the gathering was a great success from every standpoint There were no recognizable differences in the body, and suggestions and recommandations which were put before the body received the consideration of the' entire body, were threshed out, and the most satisfactory conclusion arrived at to the satisfaction of all present. A spirit of optimism pervaded the entire gathering which bespoke a degree of success that has not been credited this organization. From the discussions carried on it was gathered that the action of this body was endorsed by all its members of the different States and locals, and that it was thoroughly agreed that its standing to-day was greater than might really be expected. Committee to Make Peace Overtures Feeling that the organized efforts of the exhibition end of the motion picture business is vitally necessary to that branch of the business, and believing that the larger this organization is the easier it would be to conduct matters that require the attention of the exhibitors of the country, it was decided to appoint a committee whose purpose it is to find ways and means to consolidate all the exhibitors of the United States into one concrete body, working towards a single goal and along harmonious lines to be governed by its entire membership. In this connection the following motion was adopted: "That a committee be appointed to devise ways and means of consolidating all exhibitors of the country into one national organization, and this committee to report back to the board of directors." This committee which consists of Samuel Trigger, of New York City, chairman; William Sweeney, of Chicago; Thomas Furniss, of Duluth, Minn.; George Fischer, of Milwaukee, and Fred Herrington, of Pittsburgh, was instructed to communicate with the board of directors of the Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America to determine whether that body would co-operate with them in attaining this end. It is not the purpose of this committee to present plans where one organization would absorb the other, but to effect a consolidation. This committee was instructed that under no circumstances would a consolidation be considered if Mr. Neff continues as president. As stated by the maker of the motion, the reason of this move is that it is realized by both factions that two bodies working for the same end and aiong the same lines to accomplish the identical purpose cannot possibly accomplish the same results as could the combined efforts of the two factions working as one with the combined strength of all. It was further claimed that their reason for taking this stand was to demonstrate their broadmindedness on the question. Claim Possible Membership of 7,100 Although this proposition of amalgamation was to be put up to the Motion Picture Exhibitors' League of America it was felt that M. A. Neff, president of that organization, would not resign. Their purpose in presenting this idea of consolidation was to demonstrate their desire to band together. Along this line of amalgamation this body heartily endorsed the letter recently mailed by Mr. Trigger to all the trade publications. A motion was made that the alleged failure of M. A. Neff to pay the mileage to the national vice-presidents be referred to Mr. Rogers, their attorney, for action. This motion refers to the money expended for railroad fare by the vice-presidents on their trip to and from New York City for the convention which was held last July. Samuel H. Trigger stated that he turned over to Mr. Xeff $2,000 for this purpose some time after the convention. The International Motion Picture Association claim that they have a possible membership of 7,100 exhibitors. They base these figures on the claim that New York state has 2,000 exhibitors; Illinois, 1,200; Penns3'lvania, 1,500; Minnesota, 400; Wisconsin, 400; Indiana, 400; and Massachusetts, 1,200. It was announced at this meeting that the International Motion Picture Association had been chartered under the state of New York with the privilege to establish state branches. The matter of changing their by-laws so that each local could have representatives at national conventions was put over until their next meeting which will be held in Cleveland on March 3rd. It is thought that it will be revised so that a delegate will be allowed for every twenty-five members or majority thereof. Dutch Luncheon a Great Success The Dutch luncheon which was given in the banquet hall on the nineteenth floor of the LaSalle Hotel was a tremendous success. It was the biggest thing yet attempted by the exhibitors ef Chicago. Half past ten in the evening was the time set to start the merriment Before an hour had passed however, it was found necessary to squeeze in many extra tables, and also to set tables in the corridors. Mr. Choynsky acted as toastmaster and introduced Mr. Phillips, the president of the association, as the first speaker. His talk was interesting and to the point. He closed his remarks by inviting all exhibitors present and exhibitors of the whole world to attend the exhibition and ball which will be given in Milwaukee on January 24, 1914. Samuel H. Trigger, of New York City, was the next speaker. Mrs. Trigger's telegram which he read was a source of amusement, as she stated that if he did not come home she would come to Chicago. He stated that he would try to reciprocate the hospitality shown and assured them that the next time that gathering came to New York he would tender them a Dutch luncheon, German supper and Hebrew' breakfast. He was followed by John Rock, of Vitagraph. Hal Johnstone, secretary .of the Operators' Union, spoke at length on the advisability of combining their organization and the association in a separate organization for the purpose of protecting themselves on any legislation that might come up injurious to either body as their interests were identical. F. J. Rembush, the mirror screen man of Indianapolis, spoke next. He was followed by Fred Herrington, of Pittsburgh, who spoke on censorship. Abe Balaban and Mr. Whelan entertained with illustrated songs. Ike Van Runkel, of the General Film Company, made a few remarks as did William Hershberg, of the General Feature Film Company. Mr. Sweeney made the closing speech, and of course, complimented the ladies. Those present from Milwaukee were : J. H. Sillman, B. K. Fischer, S. Trinz, J. W. Tufts, J. B. Olinger, Sam R. Pylet and Jos. Cochrane and Mr. C. H. Phillips. Also present were Fred Herrington and Henry Poke, of Pittsburgh; J. F. Miller, of Buffalo; Sam Trigger, of New York; F. J. Rembush, of Indianapolis; Mr. Furniss, of Duluth, Minn. ; Harold W. Rosenthal, of New York, and -Mr. Doque, of Utica.