The new home of the ACADEMY AWARDS is a step closer to hosting the show next year (02), following doubts about the venue's security earlier this month (SEP01).

THE ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES has reached an agreement on security issues for the 2002 OSCAR telecast. If other matters, such as access for decorating purposes and parking for press and other vehicles, are resolved by 15 October (01), the ceremony will be held at Hollywood's new KODAK THEATRE as planned.

Downtown Los Angeles' SHRINE AUDITORIUM, the current home of the ceremony, must be notified by that date. JOHN PAVLIK, director of communications for the Academy says, "I'd put all kinds of money on going to the Kodak, but there's no signed agreement yet. "

Officials insist this month's (11SEP01) terrorist attacks on New York and Washington DC have not played a part in their security concerns. (RGS/LAT/ES)

Source: WENN