The Oscar nominations are officially in, and Hollywood is left with plenty of snubs and surprises. YourTango's Rebecca Stokes joins Cheddar to break down all the biggest headlines from the announcement. "The Shape of Water" leads the pack with a near-record 13 nods.
As the annual culmination of the year in entertainment, the Oscars are primed to echo themes from the #MeToo and Time's Up movements. Stokes considers whether sexual misconduct allegations are to blame for James Franco's lack of a nomination for his role in "The Disaster Artist." Lots of movies with strong female characters and themes were recognized, including "Lady Bird," and "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri."
Popular favorite "Get Out" received nominations in the best picture, actor, director, and original screenplay categories. Stokes says the recognition is a sign the backlash to 2016's #OscarSoWhite controversy is paying off. She also explains what the Academy is doing to ensure 2017's Best Picture mix-up never happens again.
Members of the Kappa League mentoring program at Wyandanch Memorial High School in Long Island, NY are preparing for an educational trip to Ghana. Principal Paul Sibblies is on a mission to enrich his students' lives to put some of them in touch with their roots. "When you invest in young people, then it's the greatest investment you can make," he said.
A group of 15 students recently graduated from SANYS U., a six-week program held by the Self Advocacy Association of New York State. The course helps people with disabilities to advocate on their own behalf, learning more about their rights, legislation and issues that matter most.
