1982
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 254
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 663
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 672
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 15
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 154
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 28
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 887
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 339
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 675
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 175
- Newsletter Spring, 1982--Report From Local 91
- 1982 Delegate List
- Highlights Of The 44th District Convention
- Report Of The District Secretary
- Report Of Committees
- Nomination Of Officers
- Unfinished & New Business
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 159
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 672
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 175
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 91
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 339
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--A Special Message
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 15
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--About District No. One
By Thomas Watters, Jr.
- Newsletter Christmas, 1982--Report From Local 154
Newsletter-Spring, 1982
Yakima, Washington, Local 254--By Ed Hauff: - - There is really nothing good to report about in Yakima. Last year we lost the Central Washington Fair which we have had for over 30 years.
The Capitol Theatre is also using non-union men from the Warehouse Theatre. The two men we took in when the Capitol Theatre opened refused to pay their dues and were expelled. They are the men that worked for the Central Washington Fair (non-union). The general manager we had for the Capitol Theatre took a job in the Tacoma area not long ago. As of now we have one card man in Wenatchee area.
About the only alternative we have left is the Yakima Theatre Inc. (Mercy). In the past 50 years that I know of they have been the most wonderful people in the world to work for. But all of a sudden something happened, they seem to think the word Union is a bad word.
The younger members are goint to have a fight or get out of show business.
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Lewiston, Idaho, Local 663--By Hobart Burns: - - Our last contract expired December 31st 1981. New one effective January 1st, 1982--10% increase in wages, all other conditions the same. Business seems to be good, and management is congenial. That's enought for now.
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Klamath Falls/Medford, Oregon, Local 672--By Robert J. Yager: - - Will try not to take too much space so others can get their business in. Brother Robert Biehn, a long time President of Local 672 retired and took a withdrawl Septerber 30, 1981. Maestri Management opened a 4 plex here the last week in June 1981. This gives us 7 hard top screens and 3 drive-in screens under contract. Brother Chuck Burgess became Operator-Manager at the Holly Theatre August 1, 1981. He is our Business Agent and our Delegate to the Convention this year. I'm sure he is looking forward to seeing you there. We are still picketing (informational) the 6 Plex hard top in White City. They haven't been doing well so they brought in triple X rated midnight shows for about 2 months. They have stopped them for now. Brother Myers has been vacationing this winter in San Diego. His retirement started this month. We welcome Virgil Stickney, Jr. as a new member in February 1982. Hope everyone has had all the snow and rain they want this spring. Let's have some sunshine now. Best Wishes to all and remember the Convention.
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Seattle, Washington, Local 15--By D.G.K.: - - Although unemployment in Washington is higher than it's been since the Great Depression and whatever's trickling-down from the Reagan Administration doesn't trickle quite this far down, conditions in Local 15 could be worse; a number of shows have recently been through Seattle or originated here, we've increased our jurisdictional area, and Walter Diehl dropped by to say hello. Still, things feel tentative; it's like the odd, in-between feeling Yankee manager Casey Stengel described when he said, "if the fans decide to stay away, nuttin' you can do will stop them."
Home Box Office has videotaped two Neil Simon plays at our wonderful, old (1907) hemp-house, the Moore Theatre. (You might watch for "Barefoot in the Park" with Richard "John-boy Walton" Thomas and "Plaza Suite" with Lee Grant and Jerry Orbach.) International President Walter Diehl met with our President Richard DeLay and former business Agent Floyd Hart during the taping to discuss the contract situation with Home Box Office. In fact, President DeLay is going to New York where he will help negotiate a nationwide videotaping contract for the I.A.
Seattle's Fifth Avenue Theatre has been presenting first national companies of "Fiddler on the Roof." Pirates of Penzance," and "A Day in Hollywood, A Night in the Ukraine." In addition, we worked five weeks of pre Broadway production on the musical "Colette" starring Diana Riggs of "Avengers" fame; "Doug Henning and His World of Magic" is setting in for a two week run.
The Paramount Theatre continues showcasing Las Vegas reviews; the Tom Jones Show is currently playing. Our house crew includes Carpenter Mike Miles, Electrician Dennis McManus, Flyman Al Hiskey and Property Master David Jones.
Local 15's negotiating team-Bob Krahl, Carolyn Maclean, Steve Michaud, B.A. Alex Hutchison, and President Dick DeLay-are re-enacting the Labors of Hercules in their rounds of negotiation with the Seattle Rep, Seattle Opera, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Seattle Symphony and A Contemporary Theatre; they've met over 45 times with management and have been in Federal Mediation for months. But we have some confidence that management will soon be able to figure it out and stop jacking around.
While spreading New Years Eve peace and joy in his own unique and interesting way, our B.A., Alex Hutchison, managed to misplace his Dodge Dart "Swinger." Fortunately the Seattle Police located it for him three short weeks later. All here in "Hutch's Big Valley" seem oddly pleased by this turn of events.
Closing notes: we walked a month long picket line at the Seattle Music Hall (they wouldn't hire Union stagehands, wardrobe attendants, or musicians and the Seattle Theatrical Federation put up a line); our Apprentice Selection and Training Program is progressing; our jurisdiction now includes stage work in Tacoma and Olympia; B.A. Alex Hutchison has been working with Brother Carl Ellis in Tacoma to establish a Tacoma Theatrical Federation; and Brothers Washington, Grant, Murr, Nelson and Templeton are touring with Pacific Northwest Ballet's wonderful "Swan Lake" along with Technical Director Brother Randall Chillary in Vancouver, British Columbia.
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Seattle, Washington, Local 154--By Thomas Watters, Jr.: - - As we are well journeyed now into 1982, 1 am wondering what the major general concern of the American "laborite" could be. After a year of Republican domination in this country, as well as our own state of Washington, it would appear that this year of 1982 could be a very interesting election year to behold. Politics are flying.
Meanwhile, back at the Local 154 Ranch we find things as calm and normal as ever-"A screaming nightmare." It is truly that insofar as frustration goes anyhow. Playtime Theatres has acquired three theatres that we previously had a collective bargaining agreement with. As of this writing, Playtime has not agreed to include these newly acquired theatres into the agreement we presently have with them. Although Local 154 members are working the job with the same wage structure as the present CBA, they are not legally covered. Naturally we are still hammering away, but decision time is getting close.
Another employer changed operating hours in a particular theatre without following contract procedures. This means the projectionists should be receiving OT pay for all additional hours and the company is paying only straight time hours. "D Day" No. 2 coming up".
Our friendly anti-union employer Moyer has not returned any comment on recent negotiations of previous expired contract end of January 1982. We have agreed, in writing, to extend all conditions of expired contract until such time as either party gives notice.
And we continue to picket the two non-union Moyer theatres, Aurora Village Fourplex and the Kent Cinemas Sixplex.
Then the Seven Gables Corp. is mad at us because they are in arrears to the IATSE Pension Fund to the tune of about two years and $8000.00. For a year and a half all we could get out of them was promises and excuses about the Pension contributions. Finally, the Pension Fund took them off the roster and informed all previously covered employees (projectionists) they were no longer covered under the plan. Litigation has begun. Seven Gables unhappy. Local 154 unhappy. Seven Gables unhappy with Local 154. LocaL 154 unhappy with Seven Gables. What else....
Among the members of Local 154, we are still offset by too much sickness. Retired member Fred Jiencke, Sr. is still in a convalescent home with his wife. His condition is one of slow improvement after his strokes of about a year and a half ago. Harvey Mitchell is getting around quite well after his serious operation. He is not able to return to work yet, but several members have seen him around town and report he is steadily improving. Retired member and for many years our Financial Secretary, Warren Smith, has just returned home from a siege of weeks in the hospital. He had quite a time of it, but is steadily improving.
Lou DuMoulin was recently set back by a couple strokes. After some very delicate and uncertain times, along with a month in the hospital, he has rallied. Lou, I think, is one of those fortunate ones. He plans on returning to his job this month of April and looks better than he has for sometime.
Bill Frakes returned after his long illness. He bid the Totem Lake Triplex vacated by Tony Ezell. He was not there a matter of days before he hurt his hand in the rewind mechanism. He has been off work this time about three weeks to date. Not so fortunate.
I just received and read the IATSE Official Bulletin, Spring 1982. It should prove of interest to all of us in organized labor and particularly to those of us in the theatrical wings. Read the Executive Board reports to see what the problems are around the country. Then try Page 13 about PATCO and maybe you can try to draw some conclusions. Not conclusive conclusions-only those that will make you see what problems lie ahead. Do not surface read this page-read deep. Try to understand the very simple theory of Supply and Demand. Simple? Then when you think you understand that page of an easy lesson in Economics, ask yourself, "Is it Mick Jagger's fault he is a millionaire?" or the hundred million people that pay to see him perform! So which be the Supply and what be the Demand?
In any given area it should be understood that the economic structure is constantly changing because of the people in that given area. People cause economic change. Unfortunately the multitude does not control the economic stability or instability. Others do. So now we have two other factors" Cause and Control. So these last two paragraphs really tie together and can be explained and understood at some great length. For me to elaborate any further, would place me in a zone I wish not to be in. Politicians of the world take these very basic rules of living people and make then into speeches and laws that excel themselves to aspirations far beyond their capabilities. I can only end this soliloquy with two observations. First, I think we have the leaders in this country of ours to provide us with the directions we must follow. The problem, I think, is that no one would follow. The followers do not want to lead, but they do not want the leaders to lead. And last; it would appear to me that in the framework of past and current events, the people who are not organized are those who are organized. That is the control. The organized ones are the disorganized ones. That is what Causes. Anyone have the solution?
To get closer to home take your Official Bulletin and look at the final outside page. Projectionists working for two of the largest theatre chains in the United States have real problems. This has been going on since December 1981. Real problems- happening too real people.
I believe I have taken up enough space for this time. Looking at the calendar it is a good possibility that another Newsletter will not arrive before the IATSE and District No. One Conventions in Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada. This will all take place the last week of July. I do hope District No. One has a good turnout. Support COPE and vote for a Democrat.
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Portland, Oregon, Local 28--By Tom Bugas: - - Portland's Local 28 had its 1982 election of officers on January 12th. Elected were: Don Swan President; Jim Burbach Vice President, Thomas Bugas Recording Secretary; James H. Robinson Financial Secretary; John DiSciullo Business Representative; Joe Bickford Treasurer; Everett Frogner Seargent at Arms; and Mark Pierson, Bill Burbach, and Jack Pierson Executive Board Members.
Because of changes with the U.S. Postal Service our address has changed to P.O. Box 1728, Portland, Oregon, 97207. Our new B.A. DiSciullo now has a business phone that allows us to keep tabs on him at home and at the Civic Auditorium at 503-295-2828.
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DON BAGLEY, PASSES
Longtime Local 28 stagehand Don Bagley passed away on March 23, 1982. Don, born July 9, 1909, was initiated to Local 28 on February 14, 1950, and was working part time as a doorman at the Civic Auditorium right through 1981. Don was a fine gentleman and we were all saddened by his loss. He will be sorely missed here. Services for his burial were held on March 26, 1982.
So far 1982 has been good for business here with plenty to keep our membership busy in the near future. We have one opera to go in the current season and various ballets and other shows will bring us to our annual Rose Festival. The stage show "Annie" will arrive in mid June for a month long run to get the summer off to a good start.
We now have more work at the Paramount Theatre, too. Work is in progress there on a minor face-lift to make the theatre workable for a closing series of shows prior to its takeover by the City of Portland for the new Performing Arts Center. Members of Local 28 have been involved in the renovation and for the remainder of its shows we will be working man for man with the non-union stagehands. This is a big step forward for us in that house.
Negotiations are just getting underway between Local 28 and the City's Exposition-Recreation Commission that runs the Portland Memorial Coliseum concerning the Coliseum Utility Worker contract, which expires on June 30. Unfortunately Portland Mayor Frank Ivancie chose this very time to throw a wrench in the works by proposing to the City Council a municipal employee wage freeze for a year in the face of our bad economy. Ours is but one of several City contracts that could be affected by such a move but nevertheless we will proceed with negotiations as best we can.
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Seattle, Washington, Local 887--By Evelyn Watters: - - GREETINGS: TO ALL OUR IA BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN DISTRICT #1.
Members of our Wardrobe Union have been very fortunate in spite of the depressed economy statewide. 5th Avenue Theatre here has been bringing in some Professional Musical Extravaganzas and overall doing quite well, with the exception of "COLETTE" which was premiered here, but folded 3/21182 in Denver after two weeks. "COLETTE" left Seattle 3/8/82. Elizabeth Mabbutt (TWA #887 member) was chosen to travel as Dresser for STAR Diana Rigg. Our International gave permission for Elizabeth to travel on "pink contract." Elizabeth received her salary plus $24.50 week for obligations on t e "pink contract". "Colette" company fulfilled their obligation although the show closed.
We have taken in a new Apprentice member (Judith Cooper) Wardrobe Supervisor with local Pacific Northwest Ballet Co., which seems to be growing and hiring many of our members, desiring to hire Union personnel. Our Union has contracts through 1983 with 5th Avenue Theatre and Northwest Releasing Co. Our members are also on call for newly refurbished PARAMOUNT THEATRE which features Big Names: Bob Hope-Tom Jones-Juliet Prowse, etc. Also our members are called for MEANY THEATRE (University of Washington). Also we have contracts with local companies: Repertory-Seattle Opera-Pacific Northwest Ballet. Our members and some EXTRAS are kept busy. Best regards to all IA members, families and friends in District No. 1.
TWA #887-Seattle, Washington Officers: Margaret Diehl (President)--Business Agent-Grace Friedli--Josephine Hart-Vice President.
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Eugene, Oregon, Local 675--By David Sherman: - - New officers for Local 675, Eugene, Oregon, are Alan Spencer, President; Marvin Ramsay, 1100 East 37th Avenue, 97405, Business Agent; David Sherman, 3810 Watkins Lane, 97405, Secretary.
Negotiations are under way for a contract for stage work with the Eugene Performing Arts Center, scheduled to open in September 1982.
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Missoula, Montana, Local 339--By Irvin A. Renz: - - This has been a long winter with lots of snow, and still waiting for spring weather. Things have been rather quiet here this winter, as the same Officers were re-elected again for another year.
The Wilma Amusement Company has opened another Theatre in the basement of the Wilma Building. Eddy Sharp's (Cinema of the Dove) also (Chapel of the Dove) this is Wilma Ill. The Wilma Theatres are manager operator system and is automated with two machines 6000 ft. reels in each booth, This keeps the manager operator busy rewinding film and threading up the machines, in the same building. The Mann Triplex and the Fox Theatres had matinees during the Christmas School vacations. The Mann Theatres are still having Tuesday Buck Night Shows. Our Contracts with the Mann Theatres has expired in February, and still waiting to meet with the District Manager. The City Manager has informed us that Mann is not signing new Contracts, and has everything on hold or freezed. This is a poor time to negotiate Contracts with the economy the way it is, and the unemployment of over fourteen percent in Montana. Western Montana the employment is higher with the Lumber Industry.
The University of Montana is getting ready to let Contracts on the building of the new eight million Fine Arts and Television Building. The University Repertory Theatre is on tour at the present time. The City Recreation Department has purchased a large Tent for the Summer Theatre for the University Drama Department to be located in the City Riverfront Park. The City of Missoula is still talking and planning for the new Sheraton Hotel and Convention Center.
The Stagehands are following and checking in on these Projects. We have accepted a new member from the University Stagehands, Catherine Dixon. The members are waiting and looking forward to see if there is going to be enough work for this summer. The GoWest Drive In has opened just on Friday and Saturday. I have been elected as Delegate to the I.A. Convention this year, which is to be in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. I have been making plans in attending this Convention and hope to see the Brothers and Sisters from District One at this Convention in July.
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Tacoma, Washington, Local 175--By Horace Smith: - - Construction activity is brisk in the Tacoma area with work on the Tacoma Dome, which is progressing on schedule with a completion date of January 1983. Also the Pantages Theatre, which was operating as a picture house and known as the Roxy, is undergoing a complete rebuild job that will result in a bright new stage attraction house. This theatre has been closed since October 1981.
We have word that the Sterling Recreational Organization has plans to construct a shopping center to include a multi-screen theatre along side of Interstate 5 in Tacoma. No ground has been broken at this time.
General Cinema Corp. has added another screen at their Villa Plaza operation by partitioning the larger of their two auditoriums. Local 175 election of officers in December brought about several changes. We have a new Business Agent, President, Vice President and Financial Secretary Treasurer.
We have had very little stage work in Tacoma other than performances by the Seattle Symphony and the Tacoma Philharmonic orchestras which do their programs at either the Olsen auditorium on the Pacific Lutheran University campus or the Assembly of God Church which has a very suitable auditorium for these presentations.
Brother Glen Taylor, who resides in Olympia, handles the stage work there with the help of whatever manpower is needed from the 175 members.
On March 20th 1982 basic hourly wage scales in all theatres went from $5.70 to $5.95. The present labor agreement will expire on March 20th, 1983.
Best wishes to everyone in District One.
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Boise, Idaho, Local 91--By Marvin Scifres: - - Things are really happening here in Boise. Local #91 now has 34 members with the addition of Scott Coleman and Lyndon Grunder the last of 1981. We also have two more permit people ready to join. We regret the loss of Pete Sackman, who died February 10, 1982 of cancer in a Los Angeles hospital. He worked for this Local for a lot of years and will be greatly missed. The elections, this year, brought two of the younger members into the seat of power. They are: Matt Anderson-Business Representative and myself, Marvin Scifres-Secretary. I hope that the Local has not made too big a mistake.
Contract talks went very well, this quarter, with Plitt Theatres (four screens in the area) and Odell Theatres (seven screens in the area). Both contracts were signed with no major problems. We are still negotiating with Mann Theatres, with Chuck Weber acting as go-between, to achieve a better contract with their four-plex here in town. Contract talks will be taking place in May for the Commonwealth Theatre Drive Ins and the Top Cinema in Caldwell. The Top Cinema has converted to a video projection system and wants to cut the operator hours almost completely. We also have a performing arts center being built in Boise. This center will house a main theatre of around 2800 and a rehearsal hall of around 500 seats. Contract talks are on the way for this facility.
Local #91 has had some "new" things happening this quarter. We had two shows in 3-D and had to put up and take down the silver screen twice. Both shows did quite poorly. Also we were able to run 70mm for the fourth time in Idaho history in a regular theatre. The picture is "Quest for Fire" and is doing quite well. All of the drive ins are opening for the summer and by next month one of them will be a triple. The Terrace Drive In in Caldwell is making this change. These things may be "old hat" in some Locals, but it sure makes things exciting here in Boise.
Well, I have talked enough for my first letter and hope to be writing again soon. Best wishes to all.
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Delegate List
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SECRETARY C.W. CHRISTENSON ILL
Due to the illness of District Secretary C.W. Christenson, the International has appointed Dean Skillingstad as Acting District Secretary for the 1982 District Convention. Brother Skillingstad was also appointed as an International Representative after the retirement of Brother Sid Phillips in October 1982.
DELEGATES TO THE 1982
DISTRICT NO. ONE CONVENTION
Delegate Name
|
Local # |
City & State |
Floyd E. Hart, Jr |
15 |
Seattle, Washington |
Alex Hutchison |
15 |
Seattle, Washington |
Don Swan |
28 |
Portland, Oregon |
John DiSciullo |
28 |
Portland, Oregon |
Lyman Grunder |
91 |
Boise, Idaho |
Patrick Devereaux |
93 |
Spokane, Washington |
No Delegate |
94 |
Butte, Montana |
John Stanovich |
117 |
Bellingham, Washington |
Michael Bridgham |
154 |
Seattle, Washington |
Thomas Watters, Jr. |
154 |
Seattle, Washington |
Sid Phillips |
159 |
Portland, Oregon |
M. Glenn Taylor |
175 |
Tacoma, Washington |
Joe Fiamengo |
180 |
Everett, Washington |
No Delegate |
240 |
Billings, Montana |
Ed Hauff |
254 |
Yakima, Washington |
Irvin Renz |
339 |
Missoula, Montana |
Jack Dryden |
401 |
Vancouver, Washington |
No Delegate |
445 |
Bremerton, Washington |
Hobert Burns |
663 |
Lewiston, Idaho |
Charles V. Burgess |
672 |
Klamath-Medford, Oregon |
Marvin Ramsey |
675 |
Eugene, Oregon |
Robert Deloach |
770 |
Anchorage, Alaska |
No Delegate |
785 |
Coos Bay, Oregon |
Grace Friedli |
887 |
Seattle, Washington |
Fred Rady |
B-20 |
Portland, Oregon |
Allen Williams |
CE-19 |
Portland, Oregon |
Virginia Armbrust |
B-21 |
Seattle, Washington |
Bernice Gravem |
SD-NWB |
Seattle, Washington |
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Highlights Of The 44th District Convention
Proceeding of the Forty-Fourth Convention
District Number One
Held in the Convention Center
Winnipeg, Canada
The meeting was called to order at 10:06 a.m. by Acting Secretary Dean Skillingstad, who welcomed all those in attendance. He mentioned the illness of prosent Secretary C.W. Christenson and of his inability to attend at this Convention. Futher, he explained that it was hoped that Chris would be able to attend here, but when it became apparent he could not, then some decisions had to be made. Therefore, President Walter F. Diehl appointed him (Skillingstad) to gather all pertinent books and papers needed for this Convention and act as Secretary until such time an election could be held.
At this point Acting Secretary Skillingstad introduced International Representative Sid Phillips to the delegates and informed them that Phillips will now continue this Convention as Chairman.
Chairman Phillips gave thanks to Skillingstad for his remarks, time and efforts thus far and, too, welcomed all those here in attendance. Chairman Phillips explained futher on the recent illness of C.W. Christenson and of the regretfulness of his non attendance. Further, he added that we have some problems here today in the fact of this meeting being on Sunday and other meetings that are being held this day, also that we should attend. Therefore, it appears we have two choices; one would be to adjourn for lunch and return this evening or tomorrow evening and, two, would be to continue through without lunch break with the hope we can finish by the time the other meetings begin. It was m/s/c the we begin and continue the business without breaks to hopefully finish this day.
READING OF THE RECORDS OF THE PREVIOUS SESSION
Chairman Phillips called for the reading of the previous minutes of the District No. One Convention held in Hollywood, Florida at the Diplomat Hotel, Saturday 26 July 1980. Assistant to the Secretary Watters, Local 154, read through a synopsis of those proceedings.
Chairman Phillips asked if there were any errors, omissions or corrections. Hearing none, they will stand approved as read.
The next order of Business was the reading of the names of deceased members of District No. One since the last Convention in 1980. Chairman Phillips directed all to stand in silence as he read off the following names: - FINAL CURTAIN
Rolland L. Dunn, #159 - - Charley W. Wheeler, #410 - - George H. Henkel, #254 - - Albert H. Johnson, #254 - - Merrill Newby, #254 - - Selom F. Burns, #675 - - North D. Stark, #401 - - James Donofrio, #154 - - John Juricich, #445 - - Lloyd I. Robinson, #159 - - Robert G. Crawford, #93 - - Philip H. Arrowsmith, #154 - - Lee H. Davis, #613 - - Ralph S. Canterbury, #93 - - Glenn C. Lewis, #175 - - Donald W. Bagley, #28 - - Dewey J. Farrell, #240 - - Herbert L. Thomas, #159 - - John W. Harvey, #159 - - Daniel D. Hempy, #675 - - Donald J. Watt, #175 - - Edgar Lee Sackman, #91 and Irving W. Gleason, #15.
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REPORT OF THE DISTRICT SECRETARY
There is a balance of $142.99 in the Washington State Legislative Fund.
The Insurance Fund (Death Benefit Plan) Since the begining of the Death Benefit Plan in January 1941, there have been 997 deaths. The balance of the fund which has a Time Certificate of $15,000.00 is $56,869.69.
I think we should keep working on the plan that I recommended to the Delegates at our Convention held August 10, 1974 in Los Angeles, California: On 500 to 550 members, pay $1,000.00; 550 to 600, $1,100.00; 600 to 650, $1,200.00; 650 to 700, $1,300.00, 700 to 750 at $1,400.00. There are now 689 members paying D.A.'s. We will, therefore, leave the Death Benefit at $1,300.00.
In the General Fund we have a balance of $1,594.34. At the present time we have 662 members paying per capita. The difference is that some retired members and withdrawal persons want to keep up their Insurance. The cost of printing and mailing Newletters over the past twenty four months, including the 1980 proceedings, was $2,185.60.
Local 213, Great Falls, Montana amalgamated with Local 94, Butte, Montana. Locals 463, Pocatello, Idaho and 613, Salem, Oregon were dissolved.
Chairman Phillips thanked Skillingstad for the report and refered it to the Finance Committee, Ed Hauff, Chairman. Further, he referred the part pertaining to the Death Benefit Fund to the Insurance Committee, Thomas Watters, Chairman.
Chairman Phillips then asked for the Report of the Advisory Board. Chairman Burns, 663, said there was no report, but expressed some dismay in the turn of events that because of the District Secretary's illness he figured the books and responsibility should have been turned over to the Advisory Board. The course of events and unusual circumstances of the District Secretary's illness was explained in some detail. This appeared to satisfy Burns. Hearing a motion to continue to the next order of business, Chairman Phillips ask for the Legislative Committee reports.
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REPORT OF COMMITTEES
Resolution Committee, Hobart Burns, Local 663, Chairman
Chairman Hobart Burns, Local 663, reported no resolutions and, therefore, concluded the report. - - Motion was made to accept, seconded, and it carried.
Finance Committee, Ed Hauff, Local 254, Chairman
Chairman Ed Hauff, Local 254, reported that since there was no audit to date because of aforementioned circumstances the report could only be based on the report of the District Secretary. (Immediately after the Convention, as audit was performed before turning the books and property over to the new Secretary.)- - Motion was made to accept, seconded, and it carried.
Grievance Committee, Michael Bridgham, Local 154, Chairman
Dean Skillingstad, Local 154, mentioned that all must be well because no Grievances were brought to his attention, thus concluding the report of the Grievance Committee. - - Motion was made to accept, seconded, and it carried.
Insurance Committee, Tommy Watters, Jr., Chairman
Chairman Thomas Watters, Local 154, reported that the committee recommends that the same recommendation adopted at the Convention of 7/26/80 be approved with the following additions and corrections: An actuary be caused of all members of District No. One for insurance purposes. Three bids from private insurance companies to be forthcoming and Secretaries of all locals notified by 31 December 1982. There was an amendment to this that the Insurance Commpanies should check to see if money of the Insurance Fund could be invested at a better rate of interest or not. - - Motion was made to accept, seconded, and it carried.
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Nomination of Officers
Office of District Secretary
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THOMAS WATTERS, JR., ELECTED DISTRICT SECRETARY
Brothers Thomas Watters, Local 154 and Brother John DiSciullo, Local 28, were nominated. Watters Elected 11-8
Advisory Board
The following Delegates were nominated and elected: Alaska: Robert DeLoach, Local 770, Idaho: Hobart Burns, Local 663, Montana: Irvin Renz, Local 339, Oregon: John DiSciullo, Local 28 and Washington: Floyd Hart, Jr., Local 15.
Legislative Committee
The following Delegates were nominated and elected: Alaska: Robert DeLoach, Local 770, Idaho: Lyman Grunder, Local 91, Montana: Irvin Renz, Local 339, Oregon: Donald Swan, Local 28 - Charles Burgess, Local 672 - Marvin Ramsey, Local 675, all nominated, Donald Swan elected and Washington: M. Glenn Taylor, Local 175.
Chairman Phillips obligated the elected officers.
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Motion was made, seconded and passed to allow a per diem to all delegates in attendance of $35.00 each and to include the same amount to delegates from the Special Departments in attendance.
NEW BUSINESS
A motion was made to award Alice Christenson the usual $100.00 for work done to help Secretary Christenson. Further, to read into the records our thanks and gratitude to C.W. Christenson for a job well done for so many years for this District, we, the delegates, are eternally gratefull. We will not forget, Chris. Thank you. - - Seconded and carried.
A motion was made and seconded to adjourn, Carried. Convention adjourned at 1:10 p.m.
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Newsletter-Christmas, 1982
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C.W. CHRISTENSON DIES
OCTOBER 25, 1982
Portland, Oregon, Local 159--By Allen Williams: - - Again, the closing of another year and time to take stock. It has not been too happy a year for the Local, as we have had two men taken by death. Brother H. L. Thomas died on May 8, 1982. Brother Thomas initiation date is shown as August 8, 1914. Over the years of his membership, he had held several offices in the Local. He had not been working for some time before illness took him. Brother C. W. Christenson was initiated May 11, 1925. This dates him as just prior to Sound and in the Trade he ran all different forms of the many changes in technical development of projection. Also, was a very skilled and competent Cameraman and a member of the Cameramen Local 659 IATSA He was most remembered as District Secretary and Secretary over the longest time of any member of the Local in one line office.
We have moved our office to the building at 2215 S. E. Division St., Portland, Oregon 97202.
Our membership at the close of this Season will be 28 members. Only a few are actively working at the Craft.
Sid Phillips has retired and seems to be enjoying it to the most. We are at this time in the process of electing new officers for the upcoming term. This is a hard decision. Many of our members are retired and some scattered over a wide area.
A census of the member's birth dates brings out confirmation of the fact that time is going faster than we are. The mean average age of the members is 72, and the true average is 66 years. Where they went collectively is hard to ponder.
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Medford/Klamath Falls, Oregon, Local 672--By Robert J. Yeager: - - Business was fair du-ring the Summer, but sure fell off this Fall. Closed one Drive In early in October and one Hard Top October 8th and the other Drive in November 17th. The Hard Top and one Drive In will open on the 17th December 1982, but we do not expect the Drive In to stay open after the first of January.
We accepted a wage freeze this year and negotiated an extended year to the Contract with an additional raise. It seems like the money grabber developers are out to open as many screens as they can even if there is not enough product or too many screens in an area already. We have built one in Medford now, but they have put a freeze on it at this time. It was to open the last week of November. We understand they are, also, getting bids to build in Grants Pass, Ashland and Klamath Falls.
Brother Jean Neimoyer is retiring the end of December and Brother Myers (retired) is wintering down near San Diego.
Hope this finds everyone well and doing better than we are, or at least as well.
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Tacoma, Washington, Local 175--By Horace Smith: - - In 1980 there were six members of Local 175 working exclusively at Channel Eleven Television. In 1981 all but one of these six left Local 175. Some of them were expelled for not paying their financial obligations. Withdrawal was the choice of two members. All of these ex-members and the one who continued his Local 175 membership, became full members of I.B.E.W. Local 76 and continued working at Channel Eleven.
In late October 1982 the entire engineering staff at Channel Eleven went out on strike. The Gaylord Broadcasting Company, that operates the station, is known to be notoriously anti-union. Their objective is to take away benefits that are in the existing agreement as well as their refusal to consider a request for a modest hourly rate increase.
Work for the strikers has been provided by Longshoremen's Local No. 23. Many have availed themselves of this opportunity. The one remaining Local 175 member involved has been put to work in a theatre.
The entire staff of AFTRA employees at the TV station have crossed the picket line as well as two of the ex-members of Local 175. As of November 15th, there has been no settlement.
Tacoma's Pantages Performing Arts Center will open on Saturday, February 12th, 1983. Steve Allen will headline with a presentation by the Joffrey Ballet Actress, Singer Pat Finley will, also, perform. Also, work on the Tacoma Dome is nearing completion. We are looking forward with anticipation to the January 1983 opening.
The five Galaxy Theatres here in Tacoma, all with just one screen each, operated by Mr. Bob McRae, are showing current product at considerably reduced prices, Admission to the two larger houses the Rialto and Temple, is $1.00 anytime. Admission at the remaining three houses, Narrows, Parkland and the Bijou is $2,00 anytime. Business is brisk.
We are having problems with a couple of local exhibitors who would rather do business without us. However, our new International Representative Dean Skillingstad is busy conferring with these people and it appears there could be a solution near.
In closing, all of us at Local 175 extend best wishes to all of you in District No. One for a Happy and healthy Holiday Season.
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Boise, Idaho, Local 91--By Marvin Sclfres: - - Greetings from all of us here at Local 91. Not much happened since the last Newsletter, but some things of note, I will now report.
The Terrace Drive In at Caldwell is now triplexed with work almost completed. The season was fairly good for all the theatres with only a select number of pictures doing the business. At the end of September, most of the Drive Ins started closing for the season some for the first time since they opened. The Top Cinema at Caldwell is still using a Video Projection system and refuses to have an Operator or talk about a contract Talks with the NLRB is in the works, hoping to resolve the problem through this channel.
Mann Theatres is putting up a front for our operators, saying they want only certain men on the job and will not let other men work At present, Chuck Weber is working to resolve this problem. Chuck Weber was in town the first of November to resolve an internal dispute with a fellow member and the visit was quite enjoyable. Brother Weber stressed the importance of the Locals to develop a program to train projectionists and Stagehands in a manner that we can show the management That we know how to operate equipment that is given us and repair and maintenance can be done more effectively by us, showing a need for our skills. For man years, the Locals of the IA have seen interested only in going to work, threading, operating and sitting, watching the films run. With Automation in almost every aspect of our industry, we need to be more than just "button pushers", we need to be specialists, This can only be done through training and a willingness to learn and apply ourselves to the industry. We need more than ever to prove to the management that they can depend on the Local and that we will work with them to make the theatres work and the patron enjoy their stay at a theatre.
Enough on a sermon on working with the management now with something that is equally important. At the end of December, Local 91 will honor three of our hard working members. We will present Fifty Year Scrolls to all three at our annual Christmas breakfast. The three are Doug Murphey, Lucky Thompson and Dave Walker. These men have been the corner stone of the Local for every year since 1929 and are still a strong example of hard working operators and union men.
Doug Murphey has worked the Boise area in all of the older theatres and served as a strong union laborer through the years. Lucky Thompson was born in a theatre and his father and uncle helped form Local 9 1 in 1903. He, too, has been a hard worker for the Local. Dave Walker has been a strong worker in the Nampa area. With his wife, Dave worked in almost every theatre in Nampa, Dave as the operator and Mary as the manager. His work is greatly appreciated, as is the work of Doug and Lucky.
Well, I think that it is time to quit writing and get to work, so for now good bye and I hope that all of the Locals of District No. One are having as good of a year as the members of Local 91.
Must close and get this out. Seasons Greetings and the very best for the coming year.
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Missoula, Montana, Local 339--By Irvin A. Renz: - - We have had a very busy summer schedule with the extra matinees and with vacations. It was hard to find good part time relief help to stay on for the summer season. We took turns in working double shifts when someone was on vacation. I made arrangements to attend the IA Convention and the District Convention in Winnipeg Canada. I also attended the Montana State AFL-CIO Convention in Helena, Montana.
We did manage to negotiate with the Mann Theatres in a verbal agreement. They have made some changes in their program and operating schedule. The Mann Triplex is on seven hour shifts on weekdays and the regular twelve hours on Saturday and Sunday. We also received 250 an hour increase in wages. The Chief operator can work a forty-hour week on six shifts. The Triplex still has the "Buck Tuesday' shows, also reduced matinee admissions. The Mann Fox is showing double feature Programs (re-runs) at one dollar admission. We have six-hour shifts with twelve hours on Saturday and Sunday. We, also, were given a 250 hourly wage increase.
The University Department of Drama and Dance has started its 1982-1983 Season with a good theatre program. The Montana Repertory Theatre has an excellent production for 1983 and will tour six western states. Some of our University stagehands have moved onto other states for better jobs.
The time has come to say Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
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A Special Message, Local 175--By Michael Burrell: - - My name is Michael Burrell and recently I had the honor of being one of two delegates, representing the IATSE Local 175, to attend the Washington State Labor Council Convention in Spokane. During this Convention I heard many speakers addressing themselves to the problems facing the labor movement nation wide. One, in particular, was Barry Bluestone, Economist at Boston College, who declared that today is the "Age of Permissive Technology". Bluestone defined this as the ability of modern firms, corporations, to more easily move to play off one group of workers versus another.
An analogue might be that of a hunter, who throws a bone to two hungry dogs, so they might fight over that bone while he sits by the fire eating prime venison. I have, in recent years, noted this to be the prevailing spirit of many of the theatre owners. The question then must be asked," How can we overcome this?" The answer lies in Union unity, but at this time we lack the mechanisms to answer these theatre owners with a solid allied front. I laid these thoughts before Brothers of other entertainment Locals, and the word CAUCUS repeatedly, appeared in their replies.
So now I ask you, my Brothers and Sisters in Motion Picture Projectionist Locals to consider the following: shall we continue in our "old ways", or shall we all come together, to caucus, and mayhap prepare ourselves to meet the threat of "Permissive Technology"?
1, might, in passing note for you that the numerous locals of the Stagehands of Washington have preliminary plans for their fourth caucus, to be held in Seattle late this fall. And that by these past caucuses they have been able to inhibit the corrosive activities that have been used against them.
Those finding merit in these words should contact Thomas Watters, the editor of this Newsletter, at 2800 First Avenue, Room 124 in Seattle, Washington, 98121 to express your thoughts. Thank you.
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Seattle, Washington, Local 15--By Alex Hutchison & Alan Crawshaw: - - Local No. 15, Stagehands, has been busy with EVITA, SHOWBOAT and CHILDREN OF A LESSER GOD at the Fifth Avenue Theatre and THE KING AND I at the Paramount Theatre and with CARMEN at the Seattle Opera House.
Seattle's own Repertory Theatre, which opened its first season with Shakespeare's KING LEAR has chosen to open its 20th anniversary season with ROMEO AND JULIET. This quick moving play required scenery and lighting to flow as smoothly as Shakespeare's words. The unit set was composed of two large tracked walls, a tall wrought iron looking fence with gates galore, a Friar's pallet, small sheer curtains and, of course, the balcony unit. What would ROMEO AND JULIET be without the Balcony? The mechanisms to move these pieces of scenery were many and varied. The Friar's pallet and the balcony were powered by compressed C02 that was applied to either side of their individual cable cylinders, to drive them up or down stage as needed The cable cylinder ran a double purchase cable drive system which was mounted in the deck and was controlled by micro switches, The smaller of the two walls was powered by a small hydraulic system contained in the wall. At pre-show and intermissions, the Stage crew would turn on the one horsepower motor to bring the pressure in the system to 2200 psi. The large wall, which crossed the path of the small wall and the Friars pallet, was tracked with 1/4"neoprene guides in an aluminum track set in the deck. Power was supplied from twelve large batteries, which ran a small Cushman motor. The motor and brake were controlled by remote radio unit similar to those used by model airplane and boat builders. Finally, three curtains were tracked in the flies to move on and off stage and rotate to pre-determined angles. TV antenna motors were used for rotation and their control devices kept track of which angle the curtains were playing. The entire assembly was moved noiselessly on and off stage by D.C. motors controlled from the Head Carpenters Console. Limits for the various pre-sets were set with microswitches. With all of these moving elements much time and work was needed to set-in and tech this complicated show. Many thanks are in order to the Shop and House crew for helping to make this show the technical success that it was.
We have had a Movie shooting in the Puget Sound area, providing employment for some of Local No. 1,15's Stagehands. In Tacoma we are looking forward to the opening of the Pantages Theatre in early 1983. Rumor has it that they will open with STEVE ALLEN and the JOFFREY BALLET. In addition to that good news, the Tacoma Dome will open in late March of 1983.
As a member of the Theatrical Federation and of W.E.S.T., our Stagehands have been picketing the Olympic Four Seasons in Seattle. Our particular day to picket is Monday and we would appreciate volunteers. A fundraiser will be held on the 8th December 1982 at the Paramount Theatre to benefit Northwest Food Banks.
Jack McGovern has once more moved into the Music Hall Theatre. Local No. 15 is negotiating with Mr. McGovern and we sincerely hope that we can come to an Agreement so that we may continue to work at the Theatre.
Elections will be held at the December 6, 1982 meeting. We wish everyone in District No. One HAPPY HOLIDAYS.
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About District No. One, By Thomas Watters, Jr.: - - District No. One of our Alliance was formed in the year 1909. We were referred to as the Northwestern District in those days. It wasn't until years later that delegates at Convention assembled approved Resolutions to divide the Alliance into numbered Districts. The reasoning for this was to closer represent the problems in the specific sections of the country. Looking back into the records of the Alliance, it is quite gratifying to read so many pages of praise and commendation for one of the first Districts formed in this Alliance of ours; Our District No. One, that Northwestern District.
As our Alliance has a fantastic history that began in 1893, it is easily recognizable that this District of ours is equally outstanding.
I would like, in future issues, to introduce selections of the past and beginnings of this District in the form of short articles in a column such as this.
For the first time in 28 years, we have a new District Secretary. C. W. (Chris) Christenson became District Secretary in 1954. He held that office continuously until illness forced him out in July 1982. Chris died 25th October 1982. His loss ends an era of devotion and hard work as I now have the records of District No. One it is apparent what his faithful and untiring efforts were all about and what his goals were. Our next Convention in 1984 should put all this into perspective.
As this is the first Newsletter from your new Secretary, it will be pretty much a trial and error expedition. Any comments will be appreciated. Many directions were given me at the 1982 Convention. Time and cost are the two major factors. It appears from those directions and comments that it is time for some changes and new rules. With all of us working together, this can be accomplished.
But for now I will close extending to all Brothers and Sisters of District No. One a MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS.
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Seattle, Washington, Local 154--By Thomas Watters, Jr.: - - The last article we wrote was before our Conventions held this Summer 1982. Many things have befallen Local 154 since then.
We have suffered losses by deaths of some of our members. Warren Nielson died on the 8th of August 1982. Although retired for some years, he had been a faithful employee of SRO and last employed at the Lake City Theatre. On the 31 August 1982, Lou DuMoulin left us. Lou had many serious problems the last few years but always was able to spring back He was presently employed and working for the Art Theatre Guild at the Midtown Theatre. A great man, Lou, with a great name. His loss is felt by many facets of the theatrical business.
Herb Olson died on the 19th of October 1982. He served this Local as Business Representative in 1962 and 1963 and followed with several years as President. A Book could be written about Herb. This Local honored him with a Gold Card, the IA awarded him a Scroll for his many years a member of IATSE. Herb was an elected official of this Union at its most critical times. Working with Herb and knowing him was an experience that should make anyone proud. His name and deeds are forever stamped into our records and can never be forgotten. A man to be appreciated by all.
On the 27th November 1982 we lost Warren Smith. Warren had never really recovered from a stroke a couple years ago. He served this Local in so many capacities for so many years that I would have to go back into the records of 1930 to begin to write where it all started. Although retired as a Projectionist some years, he continued his job as Financial Secretary until illness forced him to resign. A most devoted person, a faithful employee, who held one of our Union's most respected positions as Financial Secretary for 17 continuous years.
When we lose so many within such a short span it is difficult to imagine what that loss means. But as I have said so many times before 11 we are here because of people like them". More important I think, is only what the true facts can prove out it is a matter of record in our files going back over the years. It was the views, opinions, decisions, arguments and ideas of all these good men working in unity that gives us what we have today. We thank them and want their families to know of our appreciation and gratitude.
We still have too many people on the Sick list Harvey Mitchell still has not been able to return to work and we have not heard from Bill Frakes since about last Spring. Fred Jiencke, Sr. still in the Convalescent Home. He is alone now as his wife, Bertha, died this Fall of 1982. Tony Ezell had to take some time off with heart condition, but is back to work and looks good. George Worst has been off work some months now. He has spent too much time in hospitals with Doctors giving him every imaginable test. He is steadily improving and hopes to return soon. Robert Smith, employed at the Overlake Cinemas, has been off for many months because of his heart condition. It appears Bob may have to take early retirement because of his condition. We can only hope for improvement, Bob.
The motion picture exhibition business has not been great in our area, but stable. SRO has taken the Lewis and Clark Triplex and added screens to make it a seven theatre complex. Also, they are putting the finishing touches to the Factoria Triplex to end up with a Fiveplex. Both places will be open before Christmas and the long-range plan is daily matinees in both. Forman United has ceased operation of the Varsity Theatre and the option was picked up by Seven Gables. Seven Gables immediately automated the Projection equipment and we now have a Projectionist/Manager policy -as we have in the majority of their theatres. The only way for a single screen theatre nowadays. They, too, picked up the option on the Moore Theatre in downtown Seattle. This presently is being run as a manual operation, but they plan to automate as soon as possible.
Our problems with Moyer are still problems. We are still picketing two of his theatres and still working in the other two. We are still negotiating for the two we are in, hoping to renew the Contract. It is rather depressing as we continue to fight these anti-union employers. Too, we are in a dispute with Playtime Theatres as they have decided to go non-union in two theatres. We have a contract with Playtime, our standard Agreement that does not expire until 1984. We have filed with the NLRB.
Our Health and Welfare Program is in some trouble. Because of the sickness experience, our carrier wants to practically double the premiums. We are working on this, but may have to make some drastic changes.
Time is running out. Let me close with wishes for the happiest of Holidays to all members of all Locals of District No. One.
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