Breaking news

Devastating Hollywood Fires Cause Delay In Oscar Nominations

The ongoing wildfires in California, which have ravaged much of Hollywood, have forced the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to delay the announcement of the 2024 Oscar nominations. The nominations, originally scheduled for January 16, will now be announced on Thursday, January 23.

Key Facts

  • The Oscar nominations voting period has been extended to Friday, January 17, moving from the original deadline of Sunday, January 12.
  • The 97th Academy Awards ceremony will still take place on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre.
  • The nominations will be announced live on YouTube.
  • Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Young explained in a joint statement that the extension and change in schedule were necessary due to the ongoing fires and their impact on the Los Angeles community. They expressed solidarity with those affected and emphasized the need to accommodate the region’s infrastructure and housing challenges.

Accent

The fires, including the massive Palisades Fire, which has burned over 23,000 acres, continue to ravage the Los Angeles area. The fires have claimed at least 24 lives, and 23 people are still missing. Authorities have evacuated over 90,000 residents.

Tactical Impact

The devastating fires have also led to the postponement of other major industry events. The Writers Guild of America delayed the announcement of its nominations, which were originally set for January 9. The Critics’ Choice Awards, originally scheduled for January 12, have been rescheduled to January 26.

Despite the devastation, the Academy remains committed to supporting the industry and its members during this challenging time.

Cyprus Services Sector Shows Robust Performance In 2025 As Tourism, Digital Innovation, And Shipping Surge

The Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEV) reported growth across Cyprus’ services sector in 2025, with increases recorded in tourism, professional services and administrative activities. Data show continued expansion across multiple sub-sectors, reinforcing the role of services in economic output and employment.

Service Sector Leadership

Accommodation and food services grew by 9.5%, while administrative and support activities increased by 7.4%. Professional, scientific and technical activities rose by 4.6%, followed by information and communication at 4.3%. Transport and storage recorded growth of 2.8%, while real estate activity increased by 0.4%. These figures indicate broad-based expansion across service industries.

A Remarkable Tourism Surge

Tourist arrivals reached 4,534,073 in 2025, marking a 12.2% increase year-on-year. December arrivals totaled 156,959, up 18% compared with the same period a year earlier. Tourism continues to support revenue generation and seasonal demand across the economy. Growth in visitor numbers contributes to activity in hospitality and related sectors.

Driving Digital Transformation

OEV is supporting digital adoption through initiatives such as the DiGiNN Cyprus Digital Innovation Hub. The program focuses on improving business processes, skills development and technology integration. Additional efforts include the establishment of a Digital Transformation and Innovation Committee and international engagement through business missions. These actions support the adoption of digital tools across sectors.

Resilient Shipping Sector

Shipping accounted for about 7% of Cyprus’s GDP in 2025, remaining a key component of the economy. The Cyprus Registry recorded its highest tonnage in 20 years, with an increase of nearly 20%. Fleet growth strengthens Cyprus’ position within European Union shipping registries and global maritime markets. The sector continues to contribute to economic stability.

Strengthening The Economic Foundation

OEV is organizing conferences, workshops and exhibitions to support business development across sectors. These initiatives focus on improving operational practices and industry collaboration. Continued investment in services and digital infrastructure is expected to support economic performance.

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