Head writer Bruce Vilanch (you know, the guy who looks like a shaggy-haired muppet) is back at work pounding out jokes for actors to murder before announcing Oscar winners during the live Academy Awards telecast on February 24. Vilanch and the Oscar writing team weren't supposed to even be thinking about Academy Awards jokes while marching the picket line, but you've got to believe as the Oscar broadcast date approached, the writers charged with making the show flow were at least making mental notes on potential jokes. With the presidential campaign crowding out all other news, I'm betting politics will once again be the main target of pointed barbs. Either that, or the writers will just be so darned happy to be back at work that this year's Oscar show will reflect their collective positive state of mind and it'll be just one big lovefest.

And speaking of lovefests, the 'Oscar Night America' parties are on now that the strike's over and all is right in Hollywood. Approved by the Academy, the Oscar Night America affairs aren't just an excuse to dress up, drink, and make merry. These official Oscar events are actually a great source of funds for charities across America. Since 1994, the Oscar Night America benefits have generated more than $20 million for a wide variety of 501c3 charities. Last year, Oscar Night America events were held in 47 cities with 16,000 guests raising $3 million. 52 cities (and thus 52 charities) will be hosting Oscar Night America events this year. And if raising funds for a good cause isn't enough of a reason to participate, each partygoer receives an official Academy Awards ceremony program.

For more information on Oscar Night America visit www.oscar.com.