Taking Names

Return engagement

Tom Hanks is rejoining the board that oversees the Academy Awards, Associated Press reports.

After a one-year hiatus, the two-time Oscar winner was elected Tuesday to a new three-year term on the board of governors representing the actors branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Mr. Hanks was among nine incumbents and four new members elected to the board.

But a rare runoff vote is needed after two directors tied for a seat on the board.

Filmmaker Edward Zwick, who directed “Blood Diamond” and “Glory,” and frequent Oscar ceremony producer and director Gil Cates tied for a seat representing the directors branch, AP notes.

Runoff ballots are being mailed this week and are due back July 29.

Academy Executive Director Bruce Davis says he believes it’s the first time a runoff election has been needed for the board.

Low-key affair

The famous Oscar Mayer Wienermobile has proudly made appearances at funerals of past members of the Mayer family - but don’t expect to see it at the sendoff for the company namesake.

A representative for Oscar G. Mayer told TMZ.com that Mr. Mayer - retired chairman of the Wisconsin-based meat processing company that bears his name and a grandson of the original Oscar Mayer - requested the Wienermobile not make an appearance because “it would be too much of a spectacle.”

Mr. Mayer’s wishes were for a small private funeral, TMZ reports.

He died Monday at age 95.

Band manager wins

A federal court says a former manager of 1950s doo-wop group the Drifters could be entitled to millions of dollars from concert promoters who’ve infringed on the band’s trademark.

Story Continues →