Started as a gimmick, this big online holiday shopping day has taken root. Now Kurt the CyberGuy tells all his coupon shopping secrets for holiday gift buying and points the way to fill a tech lovers stocking on a budget.

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We're taking a look at The New York Times: The Complete Front Pages 1850-2008 (Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers; $60 hardcover), which features an introduction by Times’ Executive Editor Bill Keller. For the first time ever, in one indispensable book-and-DVD package, The New York Times presents every front page published since the newspaper first hit stands.

Times reporter James Barron was here to tell us more.

READ MORE, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Model Brooke Burke waltzed her to first place on season 7 of ABC's Dancing with the Stars and is promoting "Giftscriptions” -- gift subscriptions to magazines --- for the holiday season.

Burke began her career as a model for Venus Swimwear and Frederick's of Hollywood. She was later the host of E!'s Wild On! travel series and singing contest show Rock Band on CBS.

For more information, visit www.giftscriptions.com.

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Prepare for the 12 days of Christmas with 12 days of fitness. Lululemon Athletica is offering free exercise classes at their Manhattan locations. We will have three instructors from three different classes on set to give Linda a sampling of the free classes. The classes we'll look at are the "Nalini Method," "Intern-Sati" and "Flab-U-Less."

Lululemon Athletica, the yoga-inspired athletic apparel company, is challenging New Yorkers to participate in the "12 Days of Fitness." Beginning Friday, December 12 through Tuesday, December 23, New York lululemon locations will be offering a rotation of complimentary fitness classes every day (for 12 days), in addition to regular weekly store classes)

For more information, visit www.lululemon.com.

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Actor James Kyson Lee plays Ando Masahashi on the hit sci-fi show Heroes, which airs Mondays on NBC at 9pm. Lee's co-star Masi Oka (Hiro Nakamura) also stopped by the show recently.

Lee's character Ando was introduced to the show during the series' pilot episode. He's an employee at Yamagato Industries with Hiro. Ando is often insecure about his value at the company because he does not have powers like Hiro and the others.

Lee grew up in New York and attended prestigous Bronx High School of Science. He first started his career as an improv comedian in Los Angeles. Lee began his acting career in 2003 when he landed a role on CBS's JAG during his first-ever television audition.

For more information, visit www.nbc.com/Heroes.

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Grammy Award-winning vocalist Steve Tyrell has signed an exclusive three-year deal to perform during the happening holiday season at the Café Carlyle through 2010.

He will perform "This Guy's In Love With You" off of his new album Back To Bacharach and the Christmas classic "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town."

A native of Texas, Tyrell has worked with the likes of Rod Stewart, Diana Ross, Ray Charles, LL Cool J and Elton John.

You can catch Tyrell at the Café Carlyle this holiday season now through December 31. For ticket information, log onto www.thecarlyle.com/entertainment.cfm. His album Back To Bacharach is available in stores now.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AND PERFORMANCES AFTER THE JUMP...

Last year, a Bronx man bought his daughter a digital camera from RadioShack for Christmas. Along with the purchase, he also paid for a two-year service warranty.

About a month after Christmas, the camera stopped working and he took it to radio shack for repair. This happened two more times this year, each time the same operating problem would shut the camera down.

But after the third repair, RadioShack said they would no longer service his camera nor would they give him a replacement camera. A week later, the camera broke again and that's when he called Help Me Howard.

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Men and women have different shopping styles, and combining the two can prove to be disasterous. ShopSmart Magazine has a few tips to help you plow through your holiday list without a yule tide battle.

For more information, visit www.shopsmartmag.org.

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Steve Greenberg, author of Gadget Nation, is back to show us hot gadgets for the holiday season. Among his picks are iPod Controlling Ski Gloves, Microbeam Rechargeable Auto Light, Guitar Hero: World Tour and Elmo Live.

You can read Greenberg's gadget blog at gadgetnation.net/steve-blog. And you can meet him in person at his Gadget Nation book signing tomorrow from 4pm to 6:30pm at Hammacher Schlemmer at 57th Street and Lexington Avenue.

PRODUCT DETAILS, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

James Ford is live in midtown at Best Buy (5th Avenue & 44th Street). He will speak with Home Theatre Supervisor Nick DeVita about the transition to digital.

At 6:57am, this station will switch its signal from analog to digital to see if you, our viewers, are ready for the February switch. If you see our broadcast without interruption, you are DTV ready. However, if you see a message rather than our show, you are not yet ready for the switch.

For more on the DTV transition, visit www.wpix.com/dtv_transition.

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Today’s Wish is about single mom Kameelah Smith, who not only struggles with being a working single mom, but also survived a domestic abuse experience. Her cousin submitted a wish for her for a new wardrobe.

Old Navy came to the rescue and not only supplied her with new clothes for work, but also some clothes for her 12-month-old daughter Kimora.

You can submit your wish online, e-mail whatsyourwish@tribune.com, or click here to download a form and mail your wish to:

"What's Your Wish" Producers
CW11 Morning News
220 E42nd Street
New York, NY 10017

See Official Rules

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Entering its 10th year, the Grand Central Holiday Fair continues to attract New Yorkers and tourists alike.

Known for its exceptional product mix, the Holiday Fair consistently impresses customers from all walks of life. Conveniently located in the heart of midtown Manhattan, Grand Central Terminal’s Vanderbilt Hall is the perfect destination for an elegant shopping experience. And, unlike other Manhattan holiday gift fairs, it’s indoors!

For more information, visit grandcentralterminal.com.

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Actor Columbus Short plays '50s singer Little Walter in the new movie Cadillac Records, which premieres on Friday, December 5. Short's co-stars include Adrien Brody, Mos Def and Beyoncé Knowles.

"In this tale of sex, violence, race, and rock and roll in 1950s Chicago, Cadillac Records follows the exciting but turbulent lives of some of America's musical legends, including Muddy Waters, Leonard Chess, Little Walter, Howlin' Wolf, Etta James and Chuck Berry," according to Sony.

This Kansas City native has been in movies like You Got Served, War of the Worlds and Save the Last Dance 2. While he was a high school senior, he graduated two months early to participate in the traveling production of the Broadway show STOMP!. You can catch him next year in Armored and Whiteout.

For more information, visit www.sonypictures.com/movies/cadillacrecords.

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Tamsen Fadal goes behind-the-scenes at this year's Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The show is celebrating more than 75 years of entertaining audiences. For more info, go to www.radiocitychristmas.com.

We're giving away four tickets to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Our 11th caller to (866) 414-CW11 will win the tickets. Click here to read the official rules.

And if you weren't so lucky, you have another chance to win! Visit www.wpix.com/wpix_contests and SCROLL DOWN to the middle of the page to enter your name into another contest.

EDIT: Congratulations to this morning's 11th caller Elizabeth Baez from Manhattan!

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Aimee Hartmann of the ASPCA stopped by with a dog who is in need of a loving home.

For more information on how to adopt a pet, visit www.aspca.com or call (212) 876-7700 x4120. For more information on the ASPCA's Spay and Neuter Clinic, visit www.aspca.org/petowners.

VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

Gurbaksh Chahal is living the dream. He started his own company Internet Advertising Company at 16, sold it two years later for $40 million, becoming the youngest executive of a multi-billion dollar NASDAQ-listed company.

He then sold his second company BlueLithium to Yahoo for $300 million, turning many of his employees to multi-millionaires as well. And he's only 26-years-old. Need we say more?

He'll be stopping with hands-on advice on how to achieve success. He''ll also talk about his new book The Dream. He’s also featured on FOX’s new reality series The Secret Millionaire, which premieres tomorrow, December 3 at 8pm. The show is places millionaires "undercover into some of the most impoverished neighborhoods in America."

For more information on Chahal, visit www.chahal.com.

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Molly Sims visited us in June to talk about her partnership with Zagat's Drinkwell. Now she's back to talk about new features to Zagat's bar and restaurant guide and her role in the upcoming movie Yes Man with Jim Carrey, which opens on Friday, December 19.

According to Zagat, "Drinkwell is a program developed by Zagat and Diageo to provide consumers with a new way to make informed decisions about where to find the best drinks and drinks service." Sims demonstrated how to make her favorite pomogranate cocktail for us. For more information on Drink Well, visit idrinkwell.com.

Yes Man is about Carl Allen (Carrey) who, after saying "no" to everything his entire life, challenges himself to say "yes" for an entire year. For more information, visit yesisthenewno.warnerbros.com.

A Kentucky native, Sims is a model turned actress and starred as Delinda Deline in the TV series Las Vegas. You can catch her in another forthcoming movie, The Pink Panther 2, opposite Steve Martin.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Renowned Chef David Burke is showing us how to cook Whole Roasted Red Snapper and Garlicky Clams And Chorizo Top Hat this morning.

Educated at the Cuilinary Institue of America, this New Jersey native is an award-winning chef who has six restaurants bearing his name.

You can try some of Burke's cuisine at his latest restaurant Fishtail by David Burke at 135 East 62nd Street (btwn Park and Lexington Avenues). Housed in a historic townhouse, the bi-level eatery combines casual late-night dining in the ground floor oyster bar with traditional sit-down service in the main second floor dining room.

Fishtail offers the freshest fare - provided by Litchfield Farms, Burke's company-owned fishing boat out of Brielle, NJ as well as Hunts Point fish market. For more information, call (212) 754-1300 or visit www.fishtaildb.com/bigfish.html.

For more information, visit www.davidburke.com.

RECIPES, PICTURES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You may be distracted during the holiday season -- but be sure that online predators are now. AOL's Regina Lewis has a few tips to help you keep your kids safe, and monitor their online activity even when you can't be there in person.

For more information, visit www.safetyclicks.com.

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New "Angel" Doutzen Kroes stopped by the studio to tell us about the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which airs tonight on CBS at 10pm.

This Dutch model has hit success. She's only 23 and Kroes has alsready made it onto the covers of Time, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and Numero magazines. her campaigns include Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, Escada, Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, Versace, L'Oréal Paris, Neiman Marcus and became the face of Calvin Klein's "Eternity" fragrance in 2005. This is the same year that Kroes began walking the runway of the Victoria's Secret fashion shows.

For more information, visit www.cbs.com/specials/victorias_secret.

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The guys from Asylum.com sat down with us to give us tips on the “right” way to call in sick from work. They recommend:

1. Always call your boss to tell them you're not coming in; never e-mail.
2. Don't be too specific.
3. Food poisoning is a good fake ailment.
4. Don't post your exploits from your sick day on Facebook.
5. Don't come in with a sudden tan or a brand new wardrobe the next day.
6. Pick a random Tuesday or Wednesday for your fake illness.

For more information, visit www.asylum.com/2008/09/02/how-to-take-a-sick-day-when-youre-not-sick.

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No one is immune from the economic crisis -- not even celebrities. Life & Style Weekly's contributing editor Rachel Zalis stopped by to tell us how the biggest stars are cutting back and pinching pennies from everything from flying to bottled water.

READ MORE AND WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Larry is checking out a state of the art gym set up in West Babylon Senior High School in Long Island. Students can scale the rock climbing wall or test out the ropes course on the football field. There is also the fitness center which is like a gym.

It is utilized not only by the athletes who play sports but used in gym classes. it has several stationery bikes and this year they brought on an instructor to teach a few spinning classes. There are the typical weight machines and treadmills and there are also some yoga mats.

For more information, visit www.wbschools.org.

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Actor and former professional boxer Tony Danza is the host of the Versus reality series The Contender, which airs tonight at 10pm.

The Contender pits 16 cruiserweight boxers in a 12-episode competition. Going through the most intense training of their lives, only two will make it to the final to duke it out in the boxing ring for the title of Contender Champion.

This Brooklyn native is best known for his roles on 1980s series Who's The Boss? and Taxi. He made his Broadway debut in 2006 as Max Bialystock in The Producers.

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Ann Taylor is showcasing day-to-night office holiday party looks! On Thursday, December 4, Ann Taylor will host a holiday shopping event with InStyle magazine at its Madison Avenue flagship store. The event will feature style advice from InStyle editors, Ann Taylor personal shoppers and style consultants, refreshments, raffle, special offers, and a cashmere monogramming station.

Why? In InStyle's November issue, editors voted Ann Taylor's cashmere sweater "The Better Sweater" in their "Rules of Chic-onomics" feature. InStyle's expert blind-tested nearly a dozen cashmere sweaters from national retailers, and Ann Taylor's $159 cashmere cardigan was named the winner for quality, style, and value.

For more information, visit www.anntaylor.com.

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Reality TV star and celebrity skateboarder Rob Dyrdek along with his sidekick Lil Rob gives Kurt a lesson in how to be an extreme video game athlete.

For more on Dyrdek, visit www.dyrdek.com.

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The doctor is in! The CW11's Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. What are tonsils and why do we have them?
Anonymous

2. I have a question for you about dry skin. My hands get really dry in the winter and they crack and bleed, and I'm wondering if you have any advice for me?
Michael, Manhattan

3. Do you think the flu season is going to be really bad this year?
Gloria, Asbury Park

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

TheBump.com will talk about the five most common décor dangers to watch out for and how parents can baby-proof their homes. For example, mistletoe and poinsettias are potentially poisonous for baby. Tree ornaments pose choking hazards. The needles from trees can make cuts in a tot’s mouth and throat!

DECOR DANGER DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

uPlayMe is a service allowing people to find new entertainment and meet new people. We do this by working with your favorite media player and keeping track of the music and videos you love, and finding other people who love the same type of stuff.

We tell you about these other people, and you can check out what they are listening to or watching, and you can send them a message.

For more information, visit uplayme.com.

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NASCAR Week continues with Jill Nicolini in the heart of it all -- Times Square. Jill will be wearing a NASCAR crew member's uniform from the Kellogg’s/CARQUEST team whose 2009 driver is Mark Martin. The team is part of Hendrick Motorsports and drive Chevrolet cars marked with the number 5. You can join Jill and participate in the activities this morning in front of the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square.

Celebrating the end of the racing season, the folks at NASCAR are catering to the fans with a Tailgate Party. This outdoor “block party” features NASCAR drivers and celebrity appearances, as well as continuous programming and musical performances from the Ford Sound Stage! Food will be served up tailgate style while fans participate in Ford and Official Partner interactive experiences.

For more information, visit www.nascar.com/promos/championship/2008.

SEE JILL'S NASCAR SCHEDULE AFTER THE JUMP...

Comedian Bill Burr stopped by PIX studios to talk about his performance at Caroline's tonight, December 4 through Sunday, December 7.

Burr is a Massachusetts native who has been on The Opie & Anthony Show, Chappelle's Show and The Late Show with David Letterman.

One of his most infamous stand-up moments was in 2006 when he was booed on stage during a gig in Philadelphia. He abandoned his scripted material and argued back with the audience by hurling profanity and insults at them. After this 10 minute tirade, he was actually given a standing ovation before exiting the stage.

Caroline's is located at 1626 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.carolines.com or call (212) 757-4100.

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Jim Barry from the Consumer Electronics Association will discuss what you'll need to do to be prepared for the digital television conversion in February. He will showcase low budget solutions for the DTV transition. They include:

- Digital television set, less than $200
- High-Definition television set, less than $450
- 3 converter boxes, less than $60 each
- DTV antenna, less than $60
- $40 government issued converter box coupon

For more information, visit www.ce.org. For more on the DTV transition, visit www.wpix.com/dtv_transition.

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New Yorkers are welcome to kick back relax, and get SPIFF'd for the holidays at SPIFF for men. SPIFF for men is hosting an evening of complimentary treatments such as shave, manicure, shoe shine, massage.

SPIFF is located at 750 Third Avenue at 46th Street. For more information, visit www.spiffnyc.com.

FLYER AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Actress Ana Ortiz stopped by PIX studios to talk about her role was Hilda Suarez on ABC's show Ugly Betty, which airs Thursdays at 8pm. Ortiz's co-stars Becki Newton (Amanda Tanen) and Ralph Macchio (Archie Rodriguez)also stopped by recently to talk about their roles.

The show is about Betty Suarez (America Ferrera) who works at high-fashion magazine Mode but is still trying to prove herself in this fast-paced world. Hilda is Betty's older sister.

Born in Manhattan and raised in Phildelphia, Ortiz's other acting credits include Little Girl Lost: The Delimar Vera Story where she co-starred with actress Judy Reyes of Scrubs, The New Adventures of Old Christine, Boston Legal and Over There.

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Tamsen stops by Carmine’s flagship Times Square restaurant. She cooks with the chef recipes from their first ever cookbook. Carmine’s Family-Style Cookbook reveals the simple secret of Carmine’s longtime success—hearty, rich Italian food, just right for sharing, and perfect for cooking at home!

Carmine’s Restaurant packs them in every night in its four bustling locations, including its warm, festive Times Square flagship where over a million people from all across the country come every year.

And the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911 will recieve a free copy of the cookbook! Just wait for the on-air cue. Click here to read the official rules.

EDIT: Congratulations to Carolyn Cruz of Manhattan!

SELECTED RECIPE LIST AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The PIX Morning News' Emily Frances spoke to actors Frank Langella and Michael Sheen, stars of the upcoming movie Frost/Nixon, which opens tomorrow in theaters.

Directed by Ron Howard, Frost/Nixon follows the "electrifying battle between Richard Nixon (Langella), the disgraced president with a legacy to save, and David Frost (Sheen), a jet-setting television personality with a name to make. Reprising their roles from Morgan's stageplay are Frank Langella, who won a Tony for his portrayal of Nixon, and Michael Sheen, who fully inhabited the part of Frost onstage in London and New York.

"For three years after being forced from office, Nixon remained silent. But in summer 1977, the steely, cunning former commander-in-chief agreed to sit for one all-inclusive interview to confront the questions of his time in office and the Watergate scandal that ended his presidency. Nixon surprised everyone in selecting Frost as his televised confessor, intending to easily outfox the breezy British showman and secure a place in the hearts and minds of Americans," according to Universal Studios.

For more information, visit www.frostnixon.net.

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The holidays are filled with glad tidings, comfort, joy and a whole lot of temptation. With all the holiday cookies, cakes and sweets on hand this season, Shape Magazine's Sharon Liao stops by to share some protein-packed snacks to help curb your appetite and prompt weight loss -- even when you're on the run. Items include:

1. Sorrento Plus String Cheese with Omega 3
2. Jif To Go Reduced Fat
3. Seapoint Farms Edamame Goji Blend
4. Atkins Advantage Vanilla Shake

For more information, visit www.shape.com.

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They were the hottest musical trio of the '60s and '70s who blended disco, funk and glam rock and gave the world the hit song "Lady Marmalade." Now 32 years later, Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah Dash are back as LaBelle with a brand new album Back To Now, which is available in stores now.

"The first single "Rollout" prominently features Wyclef Jean on an upbeat contemporary anthem that will expose Labelle to a whole new audience. Lenny Kravitz plays all over the three tracks he produced combining unique R&B retro sounds with his natural rock edge. The Masters of Philly Soul Kenneth Gamble & Leon A. Huff bring their magic to four of the album's ten tracks. The album closes with a recording of 'Miss Otis Regrets' from 1969," according to Amazon.

LaBelle will be performing at the Apollo Theater in Harlem on Friday, December 19.

For ticket information, visit www.apollotheater.org/upcoming_events.html#LABELLE.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Patti LaBelle stopped by the PIX kitchen to show us how to make her Bangin' Brisket from her new cookbook Recipes for the Good Life!, which is available in stores now.

For more information about Patti LaBelle, log onto www.pattilabelle.com. For more information about her cookbook and Good Life product line, visit www.pattilabellefoods.com and www.pattilabelleonline.com.

RECIPE, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

PIX Morning News' own Jill Nicolini went to Times Square this morning to help kick off the third day of NASCAR's Champion's Week celebration. She talked to Erin LeBar, NASCAR’s eastern region marketing manger, about today's event -- an all-day Tailgate Party.

With its epicenter at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, today's activites included auto shows, race simulators, a tire change challenge and celebrity appearances. Emceed entertainment from their sound stage and food only made the experience even more enjoyable.

Later, Jill spoke to Chad Knaus, driver Jimmie Johnson's crew chief. Knaus had something to brag about; he made history this year by becoming the only crew chief to have won three straight championships! Knaus also gave Jill a walkthrough of Johnson's race car.

Johnson, like his crew chief, is a three-time champion as well and came to the PIX Morning News right after he won the Sprint Cup last month!

For more information, visit www.nascar.com/promos/championship/2008.

WATCH JILL'S NASCAR VIDEOS AFTER THE JUMP...

A queens man paid over $17,000 to a local construction company to help clear up some building violations on his property and to convert his two-family house into a three-family house. Eight months later, all he has is a blueprint of the conversion and no answers from the construction company, so he called Help Me Howard.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Just in time for the holidays, author Tom Santopietro's new book takes a look at Frank Sinatra In Hollywood. Santopietro covers Sinatra's family life, romances and recording career as they relate to his on-screen experiences.

For more information, visit us.macmillan.com/sinatrainhollywood.

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Blender Magazine will be talking about the best albums to buy for your loved ones this Holiday season. Their recommendations were:

For Him
- Guns 'n Roses, Chinese Democracy
- Fall Out Boy, Folie A Deux
- Death Cab For Cutie, debut album special reissue

For Her
- Britney Spears, Circus

For Everyone
- Motown 50th Anniversary Box Set - The Complete #1s
- Miles Davis "Kind of Blue" 50th Anniversary Box Set (2 cds, vinyl, book and dvd)
- Queen Vinyl Box Set
- Reba McIntyre Box Set
- KISS Box Set

For more information on these products and other ideas for the holiday, check out the latest edition of Blender Magazine on newsstands now or www.blender.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

He's estimated to be worth $62 billion making him one of the world's richest men. And after declining offers to write a memoir Warren Buffett, the legendary investor, finally agreed to cooperate on a biography. He handpicked Alice Schroeder to capture his story in The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder, which is available in stores now.

The book chronicles Buffett's life, starting from his birth (nine months after the 1929 stock market crash) to a very poor family. And although his father did turn things around by becoming a successful broker and politician, Buffett, who is worth $62 billion, was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth. Little known to most, Buffett is one of the wealthiest men in the world, but has a reputation for living rather modestly and being somewhat stingy.

For more information, visit www.randomhouse.com/bantamdell/snowball.

PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

Among crowds of holiday revelers, eight of America's most gifted wrappers -- four department/specialty store pros will compete against four amateurs who learned the art of gift wrapping at home -- will attempt to wrap odd-shaped gifts with speed, style and flair.

It’s all part of the 12th Annual Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper Contest. The winner will be crowned the scotch brand most gifted wrapper for 2008, and take home $10,000 in cash. Alton Dulaney, New York’s most gifted wrapper was here to explain.

You can watch Dulaney and other wrappers face off this morning from 8:30am to 10:30am at Rockefeller Center.

For more information, visit www.3m.com/brands/scotch/scotchtape/contest.html.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You know Christmas is upon us if Larry Hoff is jumping off a building!

It's Larry's holiday annual tradition and he will be dressed as Santa as he rings in the season by rappeling off the highest building in Stamford, CT to kick off their holiday shopping season. Stamford's shopping district is offering deep discounts on unique gifts that you just won't find in your average mall.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Robert Buckley plays Kirby Atwood on NBC's Lipstick Jungle, which airs Wednesdays at 10pm. Kirby is the younger man who has an affair with Nico Reilly (Kim Raver).

Buckley is also starring in the new Lifetime movie Flirting With Forty alongside Healther Locklear.

Based on a book by Jane Porter, "Jackie (Locklear) is a divorced mother of two on the brink of her 40th birthday. When her kids go to stay with her ex for the holidays, Jackie decides to go on a tropical holiday. While on vacation, this divorcee winds up having a scorching romance with a much younger man — one who is seriously sexy too. It’s not long before Jackie discovers that life is just beginning for her at age 40," states Lifetime.

READ MORE AND WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Style expert Nicole Young showcases undergarments that help to hide or flatter your figure for revealing fashion.

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free.

This week's free list:

1) It's a Holiday Spectacular! Come out to Queens for crafts, games, music holiday giveaways 2) Visit Santa on the Marsh in Brooklyn, take pics with him and get some holiday surprises
3) Tree Lighting in Central Park

EVENT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

PIX Morning News' Jill Nicolini is live at RexCorp Plaza in Uniondale, Long Island to get a preview of the annual tree lighting event taking place this Saturday. She and PIX News at Ten anchor Jim Watkins will host the event and will feature Long Island's own Grammy-Award winning singer and actress Ashanti.

Jill begins her coverage with ice choreographer and former Ice Capades star Dawn Wagner Johnson, who will perform with eight other up-and-coming stars on the RXR rink. She'll also talk to Senior Vice President of RexCorp Carol Allen about Saturday’s events. Then, Wagner taught Jill some cool moves on the ice and meets Sparky the Islanders' mascot!

Then, Jill spoke to Long Island Children’s Museum Director of Education Hillary Olson and Outreach Manager Sherae Dow at the skate house. They told Jill about arts and crafts activities that kids’ will put together as part of the Saturday night program.

Jill will wrapped up her coverage and speak to Randi Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest, one of the region’s biggest food banks and discussed the 2009 “Light Up a Life Project.” The charity is “selling” the 5,000 bulbs on the tree for a dollar each to raise money for the community’s needy families. To buy a bulb, participants can purchase $1 coupons at the tree lighting event or go to the charity’s website, www.islandharvest.org. Each dollar contribution will cover the cost of three meals.

You can join Jill and Jim tomorrow, Saturday, December 6 at 5:30pm in RexCorp Plaza for the tree lighting. And if you can't make it, you can watch the broadcast of the lighting tomorrow at 7pm right here on PIX.

For more information, visit www.rexcorprealty.com/treelighting.

WATCH JILL'S VIDEOS AND READ MORE AFTER THE JUMP...

It's the day after Thanksgiving and consumers want a bargain according to a vast sea of online sales being posted online. Kurt may have just spotted them.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

This week's Friday Forecaster is Delta flight attendant Angela Gonzales,who will be here to talk about how viewers can win two free tickets to anywhere Delta flies.

You can win your own pair by being the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911. Good luck! Click here to read the official rules.

And you still have chances to win tickets. Delta Air Lines is giving the gift of travel to New Yorkers this winter. Through Delta's sponsorship of "The Pond at Bryant Park," the world's largest airline will be gifting two round-trip tickets to anywhere Delta flies worldwide, once a week.

Each Friday (8am to Midnight), beginning Friday, Nov. 28 through Jan. 25, 2009, one lucky skater who rents a pair of blades ($12) will find a pair of airline tickets snuggled inside!

EDIT: Congratulations to Sheryl Walker of Brooklyn!

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Drake Bell is reuniting with Josh Peck for a special Merry Christmas, Drake and Josh, which premieres December 5 at 8pm In Nickelodeon. The film will center around Drake and Josh's experience at working at a mall as Santa's helpers, and the adversity they encounter upon promising a foster girl that she and her family would have a stellar Christmas.

Also a comedian, recording artist, and television director, Bell's other acting credits include The Amanda Show, Superhero Movie and College. And Drake and Josh will be back again in the new movie Drake & Josh in New York!, which is in production now.

For more information, visit www.nick.com/shows/merry/index.jhtml.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Ingrid Hoffman, host of the Food Network show Simply Delicioso is hosting a holiday special called Simply Delicioso: Ingrid's Christmas Dinner, which will air Sunday, December 7 at 8:30am. She came by PIX studios to make Cola, Lime and Pineapple Baked Ham.

For more information, log onto www.foodnetwork.com/simply-delicioso-with-ingrid-hoffmann/ingrids-christmas-dinner/index.html.

RECIPES, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Professional ballroom dancer, Dancing With The Stars star and now country music singer, Julianne Hough stopped by the PIX studio to talk about her holiday partnership with MasterCard.

Hough recieved training at Center Stage Performing Arts Studio in Orem, Utah and at the Italia Conti Academy under fellow Corky and Shirley Ballas. Hough will take a break from ABC's Dancing With The Stars to pursue her country music career. Her debut album, Julianne Hough, is available in stores now.

Hough will take part in a Random Acts of Kindness Event on December 9, in which she will be searching the city for people giving “Random Acts of Kindness”. When spotted, they will be rewarded with two MasterCard Gift Cards -- one to keep and one to give.

The “Overjoy of Giving” holiday promotion gives cardholders the chance to win two identical prizes including cars, trips, shopping sprees, or home makeovers from The Home Depot® – one to keep and one to give, simply by using your MasterCard card between now and January 2nd. For more on Hough's partnership with MasterCard, visit www.priceless.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

With 20 schools in the city being closed down due to poor academic performance, Lisa Mateo takes a look at one special school that is making it despite the odds.

She visits P.S. 57 in Spanish Harlem, a school that was on the brink of being closed down, but through donors and special programs the school has turned around.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The PIX Morning News' Larry Hoff is live with Lauren "The Car Coach" Fix on the West Side. Fix has the top three tips to help you keep your car running for the long haul. She'll also review tips on how to get your car geared up for cold weather and also things you can do to make your car last longer.

For mroe information, visit www.laurenfix.com.

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Actor John Leguizamo stopped by the studio wto talk about his upcoming movie, Nothing Like the Holidays, which opens this Friday in theaters. His co-stars include Luiz Guzman, Alfred Molina and Debra Messing.

Nothing Like the Holidays is about "a Puerto Rican family living in the area of Humboldt Park in west Chicago [who] face what may be their last Christmas together," according to IMDB.

This Colombian-American actor was raised in Queens, New York and attended New York University. His acting credits include Romeo + Juliet (1996), Moulin Rouge! (2001), Love in the Time of Cholera (2007) and The Happening (2008). He has also lent his voice to the computer-animated Ice Age movies.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Dr. Emily Splichal, aka "Dr. Legs," will be here to teach us moves from her Catwalk Confidence: The Workout DVD.

Catwalk Confidence: The Workout is a challenging workout that walks users through a 60 minute workout that utilizes balance and stabilization exercises to target strength, balance and confidence needed to walk in high heels.

Dr. Splichal's DVD Catwalk Confidence: The Workout is available at www.catwalkconfidence.com. Click here for more information on the doctor.

WATCH THE WORKOUT AFTER THE JUMP...

Dr. Emily Splichal, aka "Dr. Legs" is back from her catwalk workout to talk about the areas affected by wearing stilettos, how you can ease pain, and the proper posture when wearing them. Dr. Splichal explained that when women wear stilettos it affects their feet, back, knee, heel and toes. One way to prevent pain is to walk with proper posture.

Dr. Splichal's DVD Stiletto Recovery: The Workout is available at www.catwalkconfidence.com. Click here for more information on the doctor.

VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

After a four-year haitus, multi-platinum-selling and Grammy-award winning R&B singer Brandy stopped by the PIX studio to talk about her new album Human, which is available in stores now. She will also perform for us "Right Here (Departed)" and "Long Distance" off of her new album.

Brandy stated that this album is her most personal one to date. The name of it mirrors Brandy's definition of being human: "''strong yet vulnerable, candid and triumphant, in love with life and in touch with the things of the spirit."

For more information, visit www.foreverbrandy.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AND PERFORMANCES AFTER THE JUMP...

It hosted some of the biggest names on the Great White Way. Now the magestic Hudson Theatre has been restored to it's original glory. We've got your inside look at this piece of New York history.

For more information, visit www.millenniumhotels.com/millenniumnewyork/other/index.html.

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The PIX Morning News' Emily Frances sat down with the stars of the new movie The Day the Earth Stood Still, which opens on Friday, December 12.

The film is a remake of the 1951 classic sci-fi film and is about an alien visitor and his giant robot counterpart who visit Earth. Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly and Kathy Bates star in the movie.

For more information, visit www.thedaytheearthstoodstillmovie.com.

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Popular Science announces its 21st annual "Best of What's New" issue. The magazine is celebrating all of the innovations and breakthroughs in science and technology. We're taking a look at some of their top award-winning picks, which included an OLED television, a computer mouse, Category-4-resistant fabric and heated gloves. Sean Captain of Popular Science was here to explain.

You can check out their top picks in the December issue of Popular Science, available on newsstands now or visit www.popsci.com/bown/bown2008.

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

We're getting a sneak peak at the Staples Holiday Window Display. Unlike most, this project is decorated completely with office products - all of which will be donated to the Boys & Girl's Club of America.

We'll also get a lesson on decorating on the cheap with Top Design star Andrea Schroder. You can join Larry, too, this morning at 40th Street and 6th Avenue.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The PIX Morning News' Emily Frances hung out with actress/singer Kristin Chenoweth at FAO Schwartz in midtown. They made their own muppet What Not at the toy store. Kermit the Frog and Pepe the King Prawn stopped by the studio recently to tell us about the What Nots as well. To make your own What-Not Muppet, log onto www.fao.com/catalog/factories/muppets_confirm.jsp or head to the 5th Ave Flagship store.

She also spoke about her latest album, A Lovely Way To Spend Christmas, which is available in stores now.

READ MORE AND WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The Gotham Girls Roller Derby All-Star Team swept the National Championship, the Northwest Knockdown Tournament, to take the title of #1 in the nation. Tamsen caught up with a few members to talk about their accomplishment.

GGRD has had a hard road to this year's win. In the first year of inter-league play, Gotham lost its home practice rink, the Skate Key in the Bronx, which had a major impact on the development of the league. In 2007, GGRD took first place in the Eastern Regional tournament but was knocked out in the first round of Nationals by the Kansas City Roller Warriors All-Stars, the eventual victors.

This year, buoyed by a phenomenal winning streak which currently numbers 12 consecutive bouts, GGRD won first place inthe Derby in Dairyland Eastern Regional Tournament in Madison, Wisconsin. GGRD's Bonnie Thunders was named tournament MVP for both the Eastern Regional Tournament and the National Tournament.

The GGRD home season has ended and will resume in the spring. For more information about GGRD, visit www.gothamgirlsrollerderby.com.

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Richard Gentles from Animal Care and Control stopped by with some cute and cuddly pets in need of loving homes, including two hypoallergenic dogs.

For more information on how you can adopt a pet, visit www.nycacc.org or call (212) 788-4000.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Alissa Kanowitz, founder of Families Fighting Flu, was here to share her personal story of losing her 4½-year-old daughter Amanda to the flu in 2004.

Also, Dr. Joseph Rahimian, Infectious Diseases Physician at St. Vincent’s Hospital Manhattan, also stopped by to talk to us about the flu, who's susceptible and how to prevent catching the virus. Along with talking about how to prevent catching the flu, Dr. Rahimian gave our own Dr. Steve a flu shot on-air.

FLU INFO, AMANDA'S STORY, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Actress Shailene Woodley stopped by PIX studios to talk about her role as Amy Juergens on the ABC Family show The Secret Life of an American Teenager and its news season, which premieres on Monday, January 5 at 8pm.

Amy is a 15-year-old french horn player and after a special night at band camp with band drummer Ricky (Daran Kagasoff), Amy becomes pregnant. But that's not all. She also has a boyfriend and his name's not Ricky -- it's Ben (Ken Baumann)!

Woodley is a California native whose other acting credits include The O.C., Crossing Jordan, Jack & Bobby, Felicity: An American Girl Adventure and Cold Case.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Often the most special gifts are also the least expensive. FamilyFun magazine recommends giving presents that focus on experiences and items whose value lies in their meaning. The magazine's senior editor Jodi Butler stopped by the PIX studio to explain.

Their homemade gift ideas include:
- The Encyclopedia of Cousins
- Painted Photo Portraits
- Family Faces Ornaments
- Memory Lane Picture Frames & Treasure Boxes
- Kid's Art Shopping Bag
- Customized Kid's Art Magnets

GIFT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Shane Mercado and singer/actress Beyonce Knowles cross paths at the premiere of "Cadillac Records" at the AMC Loews 19th Street theatre on December 1, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images)

Christmas came early for recent PIX Morning News guest Shane Mercado. The dancer, who made a splash on YouTube after recreating Beyonce's 'Single Ladies' dance and posting it on the web, came face to face with Ms. B herself at a recent red carpet event. Watch the two finally cross paths.

Mercado, who was first featured on the PIX Morning News in November, has created quite the name for himself that has even Beyonce taking notes.

"He needs to teach me a couple of things," she told a reporter at the New York City red carpet premiere of Cadillac Records. "I mean, he was working it."

At one point, Mercado even had the chance to ask the pop star a question of his own. Check out the full Beyonce encounter after the jump.

Shane Mercado and singer/actress Beyonce Knowles cross paths at the premiere of "Cadillac Records" at the AMC Loews 19th Street theatre on December 1, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images)

WATCH SHANE MERCADO'S ORIGINAL APPEARANCE ON THE PIX MORNING NEWS, where he taught Tamsen Fadal how to dance like a "Single Lady."

Consumer Reports' ShopSmart Magazine Editor-in-Chief Lisa Lee Freeman shares tips for saving the planet and reducing poverty, all while making loved ones happy with heartwarming presents under $50.

For more information, visit www.shopsmartmag.org.

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The PIX Morning News' Emily Frances sat down with radioo personality Artie Lange to talk about his new book Too Fat To Fish, available in stores now.

According to Amazon, "A natural storyteller with a bottomless pit of material, Lange grew up in a close-knit, working-class Italian family in Union, New Jersey, a maniacal Yankees fan who pursued the two things his father said he was cut out for—sports and comedy.

"Tragically, Artie Lange Sr. never saw the truth in that prediction: He became a quadriplegic in an accident when Artie was eighteen and died soon after. But as with every trial in his life, from his drug addiction to his obesity to his fights with his mother, Artie mines the humor, pathos, and humanity in these events and turns them into comedy classics.

READ MORE AND WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The tradition of the Yule Log continues, but with a little something extra: Yule-A-Go-Go: The Burlesque Yule Log ($19.99). It’s a new DVD with 13 beautiful ladies dancing burlesque to groovy go-go-tastic versions of classic holiday tunes. Yule-A-Go-Go is a holiday party in a box with a 2-disc set and music CD.

For more information, visit www.yuleagogo.com or www.amazon.com.

WATCH THE PERFORMANCES AFTER THE JUMP...

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz stopped by to talk about the details of a new cultural initiative, Brooklyn Tourism’s first smART Brooklyn Gallery Hop, to introduce art lovers to Brooklyn’s thriving and diverse art scene.

Sunday, December 14, from 1pm to 6pm, 64 participating Brooklyn art galleries will offer exhibitions and refreshments, as well as a chance for visitors to learn more about Brooklyn’s expanding art scene.

The free smART Brooklyn Gallery Hop features buses that run through four different gallery districts, allowing participants to hop on and off the bus within each line’s loop.

Buses will be staffed with art docents offering smART tip sheets about collecting and buying art.

For more information, visit www.brooklyn-usa.org/press/2008/dec02.htm.

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ING Direct has a string of cafés across the country. Each one has several internet terminals which allow their account-holders to check on the status on their ING Direct accounts and surf the internet free of charge.

The cafés often feature seminars on financial topics such as money management, handling one's retirement, mortgages, and credit management – and each barista is a trained financial advisor. And the best part: there’s nothing on the menu for more than $3!

You can join Larry this morning at the ING Café on the corner of 58th Street and Third Avenue.

For more information, visit home.ingdirect.com/about/about.asp?s=INGDIRECTCafe.

PIX Morning News' Emily Frances sat down with actor Benicio De Toro to talk about his role as Che Guevara in the upcoming film Che, which opens this Friday in New York and nationwide on Friday, January 9.

You can catch a special screening of Che this week at Clearview's Ziegfeld (141 West 54th St., New York, NY). Moviegoers will recieve a special collector's edition program if they watch Che at The Zeigfeld between December 12 and December 18. Visit www.clearviewcinemas.com for more information.

READ MORE AND WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Keep warm and toasty on these cold winter days. Lands End shows you how to stay warm in bed with festive holiday pajamas.

For more information, visit www.landsend.com.

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The best last minute spots to shop. And Kurt reveals his strategies to ordering last minute and still getting it there in time. And how waiting ‘til the last minute might get you a better bargain.

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The doctor is in! The CW11's Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. My back and neck have become curved from crouching over a laptop at work. I am thinking about going to see a chiropractor to get this fixed, but have heard good and back things about them. What do you think?
Renay

2. I just want to know is true liver problem can cause excessive sweating?
Adrianna

3. What blood pressure numbers are actually too low?
Colin, Manhattan

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

Actress Faith Ford stopped by PIX studios to talk about her role as professional matchmaker Amy Flowers in the Hallmark movie A Kiss at Midnight, which airs on Saturday, December 27 at 9pm.

"After spending yet another New Year’s toasting her matches, Amy sets a goal for herself to find the man of her dreams by the following New Year’s Eve. She soon meets widower Josh Sherman (Cameron Daddo) and the two seem to be a perfect pair. Only later does the pair realize how they came to meet, what each does for a living and are convinced they are each out to destroy their respective businesses," stated Hallmark.

A Louisiana native, Ford is best remembered as Corky Sherwood on Murphy Brown. She has also had starring roles in recent TV shows The Norm Show, Hope and Faith opposite Kelly Ripa and Carpoolers.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Hit the kitchen with the good from your favorite Food Network stars. From Rachael Ray's "Bubble & Brown" 3-Piece Oval Baking Dish Set to Emeril Lagasse's deep fryer we'll check out the Food Network Stores Holiday Gift picks. Emily Silman was here to explain the eight products.

To shop for more Food Network gifts, visit www.foodnetworkstore.com.

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

As a mother of four and former Fortune 100 executive Maria Bailey is the the most respected voice on moms and for moms. Bailey is back with a few ideas on keeping costs down this holiday season. From re-gifting parties to airline points for presents - she's got all the tips you'll need to keep money in your wallet this year.

For more information, visit www.mariabailey.com or www.bluesuitmom.com.

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The Nets Kids are here to spread a little cheer. Plus, the Kids are telling us about the Nets Kids Talent Search Auditions which are being held on December 15. The Nets organization is searching for individual singers and musicians ages 6-13 to perform at half time at select home games, as well as a Kid Emcee for Kids Day at the Nets vs Celtics game.

For more information, visit www.nba.com/nets/news/Nets_Kids_Talent_Search-292046-64.html.

WATCH THE PERFORMANCE AFTER THE JUMP...

The Gaming Guys Scott Jones of CrispyGamer.com and Evan Narcisse of Entertainment Weekly are back with more fun video games for the holiday season. They are showing off four must-have games for the gamer in your life:

1. Stars Wars: The Force Unleashed
2. LittleBigPlanet
3. Mirror's Edge
4. Soul Calibur IV

For more information, visit www.crispygamer.com and www.ew.com/ew/news/tech/0,,,00.html.

VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

We’re running out of weekends before the holidays, and Larry is at the Queens Center Mall in Elmhurst where they are rolling out deep discounts to help you cover everyone on your list. Larry fills us in on secret deals, early bird specials, and must have items. Larry will discover five hot tems under $25 and five hidden sales at the mall.

Queens Center is located at the intersection of Queens and Woodhaven Boulevards. For more information, visit www.shopqueenscenter.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

British actor Jason Isaacs stopped by the studio this morning to talk about his role as Maurice in the new movie Good, which opens on Wednesday, December 31.

Based on a play by C.P. Taylor, Good is set in the World War II era and is about literary professor John Halder (Viggo Mortensen, Lord of the Rings, Eastern Promises) whose mother suffers from senile dementia, prompting him to write a novel advocating compassionate euthanasia. His book unexpectedly becomes used as part of Nazi Party propaganda. Powerful political figures strongly encouraged the reluctant professor to join the Party. And as anti-Semetic feelings grow in Germany, John is forced to choose between his career and his Jewish friend Maurice (Isaacs).

Best known as Death Eater Lucius Malfoy (Draco's father) in the Harry Potter movie series, Isaacs only discovered his penchant for acting while he was studying to become a lawyer at Bristol University in the 1980s. Since then, Isaacs has starred in blockbuster films like Event Horizon, Armageddon, The Patriot and Black Hawk Down.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Tamsen Fadal talks with SmartMoney magazine about an article in its current issue.

One thing you can bank on this holiday season: deep discounts from retailers. From finding truly "free" shipping to dodging online fraud, here's how to get the most mileage from your dollar without leaving home.

For more information, visit www.smartmoney.com/Spending/Deals/10-Things-Online-Retailers-Won-t-Tell-You.

READ THE 10 RETAILER SECRETS AFTER THE JUMP...

The Third Annual Lunchbox Auction presented by Gourmet Magazine to benefit hunger relief organizations Food Bank For New York City and The Lunchbox Fund of South Africa, will kick off tonight, December 11 at 8 pm at Milk Studios in Chelsea.

For more information, log onto www.thelunchboxauction.org.

VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

Actor Jeff Goldblum plays Jewish entertainer Adam Stein in the new movie Adam Resurrected, which opens in select theaters tomorrow.

Following a trend of Holocaust-related movies, Adam Resurrected is based on the 1968 book of the same name by Israeli writer Yoram Kaniuk. Before World War II, Adam is the funniest entertainer in Germany. Later, Adam and his family are sent to a concentration camp, where he is spared by becoming Nazi Commandant Klein's (Willem Dafoe) "dog" but his wife and daughter are sent off to die.

Fifteen years later in 1961, we find Adam at a sanitarium in Israel's Negev Desert, where he is the asylum's most popular patient. There he meets a "feral boy who believes he is a dog,[which] awakens Adam's sense of self and his faith in others, both of which had been viciously stamped down in the war," acccording to Paul Schrader of the Toronto International Film Festival.

An Oscar-nominated actor, this Pennsylvania native has starred in hit films such as The Fly, Jurassic Park and Independence Day. And fans can catch him on the small screen, too, in the new season of Law and Order: Criminal Intent as he replaces actor Chris Noth as Detective Mike Logan.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Cesare Casella, executive chef and partner of Salumeria Rosi Parmacotto, will be here to show us how to make Insalata di Uova e Carne Secca del Pontormo (Scrambled Eggs with Mesclun and Pancetta).

Salumeria Rosi Parmacotto is a restaurant and gourmet food store serving Italian speciality food products. They are located at 283 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, New York 10023. For more information, visit www.salumeriarosi.com or call (212) 877-4800.

Don't miss out on this exclusive Dining PIX deal! For the price of only $25, diners will recieve a gift certificate worth $50! Supplies are limited. For more information on this and all Dining PIX deals, log onto: http://wpix.tribunedeals.com.

Click here to view past Dining PIX RECIPES.

RECIPE, VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

A New Jersey-based charity, devoted to the memory of a Port Authority police officer, who died on September 11 needed some financial help to buy holiday gifts for needy kids, after losing some of their funding, so they called Help Me Howard.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER HE JUMP...

In Bergen County, the so-called “Bergen County Blue Laws” still exist where businesses close every Sunday for “quality of life,” a tradition that has carried on for years, even during the economic crisis. James Ford reports on the current state of the laws.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

For one week eBay is offering deep discounts, free shipping and designer deals for must have items. Find out how to save a bundle and get exactly what you are looking for.

Check out the sales at ebay.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Z100's Jingle Ball is one of the most anticipated concerts in New York and every year these highly sought-after tickets sell like hot cakes! Performances include Brandy, Leona Lewis, Paramore, David Archuleta and Lady Gaga.

Z100's own Shelley Wade was here to talk about Jingle Ball and how one lucky PIX Morning News viewer can win two tickets to tonight's concert! She's giving away the tickets and a Z100 Gift Basket containing an H&M Gift card, Blackberry Phone Flip phone, D’annunzio diamond necklace all worth approximately $3,500!

All you have to do to win is wait for the on-air cue and be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911. Good luck!

Click here to read the rules.

For more information about the concert, visit jingleball.z100.com.

VIDEO AND PICTURE OF GIFT BAG AFTER THE JUMP...

Fabio Bano from Bread TriBeCa came by PIX studio to show us how to make Pan Roasted Baby Octopus with grape tomatoes, kalamata olives, new potatoes and fresh herbs in a special early edition Dining PIX.

Bread TriBeCa is a hip panini joint. They are located at 301 Church Street, New York, NY 10014. For more information, visit www.breadtribeca.com or call (212) 334-0200.

Don't miss out on this exclusive Dining PIX deal! For the price of only $25, diners will recieve a gift certificate worth $50! Supplies are limited. For more information on this and all Dining PIX deals, log onto: http://wpix.tribunedeals.com.

Click here to view past Dining PIX RECIPES.

RECIPE, VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

From a highly selective field of nearly 34,000 applicants nationwide, fast food chain Wendy’s will bring the 12 finalists to New York City to reveal the two national winners for the 2008 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award.

Each finalist embodies the Heisman spirit of hard work and dedication in academics, athletics and in the community, and two local students are among the finalists: Joseph Rigby of Suffield High School, Suffield, CT and Irene Kalbian of Cheshire High School, Cheshire, CT.

Tune in to ESPN2 this Sunday, December 14th at 6pm to see the ceremony! For more information, visit www.wendyshighschoolheisman.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

It's the Green Boating Zone at the New York National Boat Show and Larry is covering the must-have items, new products and holiday gifts. You can join him this morning at the Jacob K. Javits Center (Eleventh Avenue & 35th Street).

For more information, visit www.nyboatshow.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Actor/comedian David Alan Grier stopped by the PIX studios to talk about his performance at Comix. He'll be performing tonight and tomorrow evening.

Grier, a Michigan native, got his big break when he landed a role on the hit 1990s sketch comedy series In Living Color. His co-stars included Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Lopez. He is currently the host of Chocolate News, Comedy Central's latest satirical news and sketch comedy program.

Comix is located at 353 W. 14th Street at 9th Avenue. For show and ticket information, visit www.comixny.com/event.aspx?eid=494&sid=1575 or call (212) 524-2500.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Look fabulous for the holiday season without going bankrupt. Designer/Style Expert Nicole Young shows off her five picks for chic party attire.

Frederick's of Hollywood merchandise can be found at www.fredericks.com. Shoes were provided by Love My Shoes. The retailer has boutiques in Huntington, Bayside, Smithtown, Carle Place, Oceanside and Babylon. If you buy two pairs or more, you get 30% off your entire purchase. For more information, visit www.lovemyshoes.com.

And you can win a $100 gift certificate to Love My Shoes! All you have to do is wait for the on-air cue and be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911. Good luck! Click here to read the official rules.

EDIT: Congratulations to today's winner, Shareefah Hilliad of Jersey City, NJ!

EMSEMBLE DETAILS, VIDEO AND PICTURE AFTER THE JUMP...

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free.

This week's free list:
1. It's an inside tail-gate party to the Z100 Jingle Ball Pre-Concert in Manhattan. Brandy, Lady GaGa, Secondhand Seranade and many more artists are expected to perform!
2. Enjoy random acts of kindness this holiday season with free gift-wrapping, hot cocoa, pedi-cab rides, candy canes and a chance to win an iPod in Manhattan

EVENT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The PIX Morning News' Emily Frances sat down with Kate Winslet, Ralph Fiennes and David Kross, the stars of the new movie The Reader, which opens today in theaters.

According to the Weinstein Company, the film is set after the Holocaust in Germany, where "teenager Michael Berg (David Kross) becomes ill and is helped home by Hanna (Winslet), a stranger twice his age. Michael recovers from scarlet fever and seeks out Hanna to thank her. The two are quickly drawn into a passionate but secretive affair. [...] Eight years later, while Michael is a law student observing the Nazi war crime trials, he is stunned to find Hanna back in his life - this time as a defendant in the courtroom." Michael learns that Hanna was a Nazi Guard at a concentration camp. The character of Michael Berg is played by both David Kross and Ralph Fiennes.

For more information, visit thereader-movie.com.

Stay tuned because actress Lena Olin, who also stars in The Reader, will be with us in the PIX studio.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

A new gadget can now tell you what your pooch is up to when you're not around. Kurt shows you how this matchbox-sized device spies on your pup's activities without the need for a video cam! Plus this doggy tag can help you make friends with other dog owners. Has social networking literally gone to the dogs?

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The doctor is in! The PIX Morning News' Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. Orange juice is supposed to be an excellent source of Vitamin C. If I have 3 or 4 drinks after work that contain orange juice, is that counterproductive to the Vitamin C?
Aleshia, Harlem

2. How come when drinking coffee there is a need for constant urination?
Nikeya

3. My father was recently diagnosed as a diabetic. what are some great tips that i could give him to stay healthy over the coming years?
Benjamin, Manhattan

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

This week's Friday Forecaster is Larchmont native Annie Berning, a 7th grader from the Hackley School in Tarrytown, NY.

WATCH THE FORECAST AFTER THE JUMP...

We first spoke to actors Kate Winslet, Ralph Fiennes and David Kross of The Reader. Now we're talking to Lena Olin, who plays Ilana Mather / Rose Mather in the film, which opens today.

The film is about law student Michael (Ralph Feinnes/David Kross), who 10 years after his affair with older woman Hanna (Kate Winslet), discovers that the woman who he read books to was a Nazi guard at a concentration camp.

Born in Stockholm, Sweden, Olin recently starred as Irina Derevko in the TV show Alias, opposite actress Jennifer Garner. Before she came to Hollywood she had already gained much praise in the Swedish acting industry. Before she bgan her career, Olin studied medicine.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Shape Magazine's Beauty Director Didi Gluck is in the studio to answer some common beauty questions, including:

1. What's the right way to apply eye shadow?
2. I'm not a teenager anymore, so why am I still breaking out?
3. I'm in capable of drawing an even line with eyeliner. It doesn't matter if I use a pencil or liquid! Any advice?
4. What can I do about the dark splotches on my cheeks?
5. How can I make my manicure last?

For more information, visit www.shape.com.

VIDEO AND ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

We get story ideas from viewer email, tracking trends and even the front office where our big bosses may have innovated a new path in a website called Zetabid to finding a deal on foreclosed properties.

For more information, visit zetabid.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Yes Man is about Carl Allen (Jim Carreyhttp://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000120) who, after saying "no" to everything his entire life, challenges himself to say "yes" for an entire year. Carrey's co-star Molly Sims also stopped by the studio recently to talk about the movie, which opens this Friday, December 19.

For more information, visit yesisthenewno.warnerbros.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You can give and receive during our Gift Week Giveaway Week. Each day we're showcasing gift ideas for the holidays and if you watch you could win a few of the products featured.

For day one, John Silver of TimeToPlayMag.com shares his picks for great toys for the kids this holiday season. Plus, he's giving away a few of the toys. Just wait for the on-air cue and be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911 and you can win the featured Elmo doll! Click here to read the official rules.

For more on website's suggestions, go to www.timetoplaymag.com.

EDIT: Congratulations to today's winner, Salvatore Frederico of Floral Park, NY!

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Financial expert Ken Stern stopped by the studio to talk stock market drama and what families need to be doing right now. Stern's tips were:

1. Don't take on losses
2. Roth your 401K
3. Build a dream team; be an investment predator
4. Take advantage of the recession: steals and deals

Stern's forthcoming financial advice book, Pounce: The Once-a-Month Investment Strategy That Devours the Markets, is due out early next year.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Former Mickey Mouse Club member and Felicity star actress Keri Russell stopped by to talk about her new movie Bedtime Stories, which opens Christmas Day, and her partnership on a holiday safety campaign with Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Bedtime Stories is about Skeeter Bronson (Adam Sandler), a hotel handyman whose life is changed forever when the bedtime stories he tells his niece and nephew start to mysteriously come true. When he tries to help his family by telling one outlandish tale after another, it's the kids' unexpected contributions that turn all of their lives upside down," according to Disney.

And while you're out watching Bedtime Stories in the theaters, make sure your house is safe before you leave. According to Underwriters Laboratories Inc., "nearly 47,000 fires occur nationally each year during the holidays, claiming more the 500 lives, causing more than 2,200 injuries and costing $554 million in property damage." To make sure your electronics are UL certified, look for the UL symbol.

For more information on Russell and her holiday safety campaign, visit www.safetyathome.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

We're prepping you for the slopes this ski season with a ski conditioning workout. It's with Stefan Aschan of Strength 123.

For more on Stefan, log onto www.stefanaschan.com.

WATCH THE WORKOUT AFTER THE JUMP...

The doctor is in! The PIX Morning News' Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. I am 24-years-old and have been overweight my entire life. This summer, I started exercising and eating right and have lost 40 lbs. But, recently I've experienced migraines after I workout. What is wrong with me? Should I be worried?
Patrick

2. I frequently walk in New York City, but never know just how much exercise I am getting. How many blocks must one walk to fit light, moderate or heavy exercise into their regimen? Also, what are they equivalent too in terms of calories?
Anonymous

3. I'm always very tired. I just can't get going in the morning and I'm tired in the evening and i wonder if you have any suggestions for me?
Van, Manhattan

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

Actor Gabriel Macht plays the title character in the new movie The Spirit, which opens Christmas Day. Macht's co-stars include Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Mendes and Jamie King.

Based on Frank Miller's (300, Sin City) graphic novel The Spirit is about rookie cop Denny Colt (Macht) who returns from the dead as The Spirit, a vigilante whose mission is to fight evil under the cover of Central City's shadows. Particularly, he seeks to rid the city of The Octopus (Jackson), a cold-blooded killer who wants to being Central City to ruin.

Macht is a native New Yorker and hails from the Bronx. His acting credits include The Others, Bad Company, Behind Enemy Lines, A Love Song for Bobby Long and The Good Shepherd. You can catch him in his next movie Whiteout (2009), opposite Kate Beckinsale.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Lifestyle expert Erinn Valencich stopped by with five holiday decorating tips. The items displayed during the segment were from TJ Maxx and Marshalls.

For more information on TJ Maxx, log onto www.tjmaxx.com. For more information on Marshalls, log onto www.marshallsonline.com.

FIVE HOLIDAY TIPS, PICTURES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

A Brooklyn woman paid $1,200 to charter a bus to great adventure. It was her son’s birthday wish to take a bus full of family and friends on halloween day to enjoy the amusement park’s “fright fest”. So she paid hundreds of dollars worth of park tickets and $ 1,200 for the bus charter.

But on the day of the event 25 people showed up to meet the bus, but it never arrived. As days passed and she couldn’t get answers from the bus rental company, she called Help Me Howard.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Visit various places around the country for cheap to celebrate the new year with these packages from orbitz.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You can give and receive during our Gift Week Giveaway Week. Each day we're showcasing gift ideas for the holidays and if you watch you could win a few of the products featured.

Women's Health is helping the ladies find gifts for the men in their lives. From tools to electronics, the magazine has put together a collection of must-haves. Nicole Blades of Women's Health was here to explain.

And the featured Leatherman Skeletool CX ($70) could be yours! Just wait for the on-air cue to be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911 and say the PIX Word of the Day. Click here to read the official rules.

Check out the special gift issue of Women's Health in stores now.

EDIT: Congratulation to today's winner, Carlo Amato from Brooklyn, NY! Be sure to tune in tomorrow for the next PIX Word of the Day and our gifts for gals giveaway.

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You saw her grow up as Topanga from the '90s ABC sitcom Boy Meets World, now actress Danielle Fishel is the host of The Dish on The Style Network.

The show celebrates "the weekly mishaps and meltdowns of celebrity fashion and lifestyle." You can catch The Dish on Saturdays at 10pm. For more information, visit www.mystyle.com/mystyle/shows/thedish/index.jsp.

Recently, Fishel has appeared on Yes, Dear, was a correspondent for The Tyra Banks Show and was the spokesperson for NutriSystem. Off camera, Fishel can be found working on her degree in psychology (with a focus in marriage and family therapy) or playing with her Maltese Anna.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

High school students are prepping for the SATs -- the biggest test of their school career. Known as the "Mother Nudge" of tutoring, Laura Wilson helps students fine tune their skills so they can succeed and get into their college of choice.

PIX Morning News' Tamsen Fadal also checks out the new video games that helps students test out there SAT skills. It's futureU with Kaplan and My SAT Coach with The Princeton Review for the Nintendo DS, which are available in stores now.

For more information on Wilson, visit wilsonprep.com/SAT_tutoring.html.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Jodi Record from The Little Shelter stopped by with three cute and cuddly pets in need of loving homes.

For more information on how to adopt a pet, visit www.littleshelter.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Momma's Boys is a new dating series on NBC that centers on three possessive, yet loving mothers who must help their complacent sons choose the perfect woman.

With us this morning are local contestants Robert Kluge and his mom Esther. Robert is a 24-year-old commercial real estate broker who likes to cook, travel and watch football in his spare time. Esther is a first grade teacher in Central New Jersey, who passed on her passion for cooking to her son. Aside from Robert, she also has another son and daughter.

You can catch the Momma's Boys series premiere tonight at 10pm on NBC. For more information, visit www.nbc.com/mommas_boys.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

This week, PIX Morning News' Kristina Behr granted the wish of Jackson, New Jersey native Dawn DeStefano, a single mother of four who wished for tickets to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular to bring her 8-year-old daughter Gianna for Christmas and her birthday.

You can submit your wish online, e-mail whatsyourwish@tribune.com, or click here to download a form and mail your wish to:

"What's Your Wish" Producers
CW11 Morning News
220 E. 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017

Read the official rules.

Actor Dan Lauria plays Police Commissioner Dolan in the new movie The Spirit, which opens Christmas Day. Lauria's co-star Gabriel Macht, who plays The Spirit (Denny Colt) stopped by the studio yesterday to talk about the film as well. Other actors in The Spirit include A-Listers Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, Eva Mendes and Jamie King.

Based on Frank Miller's (300, Sin City) graphic novel The Spirit is about rookie cop Denny Colt (Macht) who returns from the dead as The Spirit, a vigilante whose mission is to fight evil under the cover of Central City's shadows. Particularly, he seeks to rid the city of The Octopus (Jackson), a cold-blooded killer who wants to being Central City to ruin.

Lauria's acting credits include Independence Day, It Came From Beyond Space, Without A Trace, JAG and Ed.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Actor turned singer Danny Aiello stopped by the studio this morning to sing "Some of These Days" and "Medley: Swing Low, Sweet Chariot and Lonesome Road" from his new CD Live From Atlantic City, which is available in stores now from Dreammakers Records.

The album was recorded at the now demolished Copa Room at the Sands Hotel and Casino. This was the same room where Aiello and his wife Sandy watched Frank Sinatra performed his final public US concert in 1994.

Aiello is an Oscar-nominated actor who has 70 films under his belt including Moonstruck and Do the Right Thing. He's worked with the likes of Nicolas Cage, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Robert Duvall and Woody Allen. But, singing has always been in his blood. He used to sing on the streets of the Bronx when he was a kid and in 2004 he debuted with his single "I Just Wanted to Hear the Words."

A native New Yorker, Aiello is working on his third album Bridges (2009), on which he collaborates with producer and rapper Hassan. He also has a new comedy club in Hobeoken, New Jersey called Danny's Upstairs.

You can purchase Live From Atlantic City at Amazon.com.

WATCH THE PERFORMANCES AND INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

A Yonkers woman received a Gucci bag from her friends as a birthday gift. But when it started to fall apart just months later, she took it to the store for repair, only to find out it was a fake.

When the online company from where it had been bought wouldn’t take it back nor return the money, she called Help He Howard.

For more on Help Me Howard, visit www.wpix.com/wpix_help_me_howard.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Tech stuff isn't just for the man in your life. A new batch of must-have gadgets are geared for women! From a Vivian Tam clutch to a stylin ear piece- there's something for anyone on your list.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You can give and receive during our Gift Week Giveaway Week. Each day we're showcasing gift ideas for the holidays and if you watch you could win a few of the products featured.

Your mom, your sister, your boss, your daughter, your wife. What do the ladies in your life want for the holidays? A gifting expert has the goods on what to get all of the women in your life. She'll have suggestions in all price ranges. Plus, she's giving away a basket of goodies.

And the featured gift basket filled with a DayNa Decker Décor candle, Godiva chocolates and a Nine West handbag could be yours! Just wait for the on-air cue to be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911 and say the PIX Word of the Day. Click here to read the official rules.

Be sure to tune in tomorrow when we feature electronic and techie gifts, and you could win one hot ticket item.

EDIT: Congratulations to today's winner, Santos Medina of Forest Hills, NY!

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Political analyst Nick Ragone stopped by the PIX11 studio this morning to talk about the latest in Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's corruption scandal latest developments, the Obama cabinet and New York Gov. David Patterson's budget proposal.

Ragone stated the fall out of the Blagojevich's corruption scandal is still up in the air. But what will be interesting to find out is if Robert Emmanuel and David Axelrod had knowledge in the scandal and why they did not blow the whistle on Blagojevich.

Switching over to President-elect Barack Obama's cabinet, something that is unclear is Joe Biden's role as vice president. With so many experts appointed to foreign and domestic policy, Biden's specialty, he may have a diminished role as VP. Ragone believes that though there are a lot of familiar faces from the Clinton administration back under the Obama administration, Obama's has surrounded himself with well-rounded person with a lot of experience.

Locally, Gov. Patterson's proposed tax hikes to close New York state's $15 billion deficit is the largest in the state's history. Ragone said that this is certainly fuel to the Republican's fire when the gubernatorial elections come up in 2010.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Constantine Maroulis stopped by to talk about starring in the new off-Broadway show "Rock of Ages."

Echoing aspects of his own rise to stardom, the singer-turned-actor plays the lead role of a young rocker in the '80s looking to make a name for himself in Hollywood while the rock club he frequents is at risk of being shut down by developers. The musical features iconic hits from the likes of Journey, Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar and Asia.

Born in Brooklyn to Greek-American parents, Maroulis rose to fame as a contestant in the fourth season of American Idol. His acting repertoire includes appearances on the CBS soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful. He has also appeared as himself as a contestant on Don't Forget the Lyrics! and sang with host Wayne Brady.

For more information on "Rock of Ages," visit www.rockofagesmusical.com

By Charissa Che for WPIX-TV

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Nothing sparkles quite like diamonds and during the holiday season these gems really add cheer. Sally Morrison from the Diamond Information Center showcased affordable jewels and hot trends in jewelry. She dicussed these trends:

1. Return to Classics
- Studs, diamond solitaire pendants, bracelets
2. Gifts of Love
- DERs engagement rings; three-stone rings to represent past, present and future; journey stones from smaller to larger to show how your relationship grows over time
3. For The Fashion Conscious
- Bracelets and right-hand rings
4. Dream Big
- Aspirational big pieces diamonds that are all under $100,000 but over $50,000.

Visit www.adiamondisforever.com to learn more about the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity and carat) of diamonds and tips on what to look for when buying a diamond ring. Make sure you know your budget before you enter a store and always go to a reputable jeweler.

Click here to see the pictures and prices of today's diamonds. For more information on purchasing today's featured jewels, visit www.adiamondisforever.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Stylista judges Anne Slowey, fashion news director for ELLE, and Joe Zee, creative director of ELLE, revisited our studios to talk about the show's season finale, which airs tonight at 9pm on PIX 11.

The show put 11 apsiring fashionistas against each other in a contest to win their dream job: junior editor for ELLE Magazine. And of the 11 contestants, three remain: Dyshawn the Freelance Stylist, Megan the Entrepeneur and Johanna the China Military Analyst.

For more on Stylista and an exclusive web extra interview with Anne Slowey, visit www.wpix.com/stylista.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AND WEB-EXTRA VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Spend 99 cents for a tune online and how much does the artist get? The amount may surprise you. Plus why some artists actually want you to steal their music.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The doctor is in! The PIX Morning News' Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. I exercise everyday and still can not find a way to lose weight! Could it be my thyroid?
John from Allentown, PA

2. I wanted to know what causes your stomach to be bloated? Is there are ways to solve that?
Amy

3. I wanted to know is it true that the common cold is actually caused by germs and not by a drop in the temperature?
Doneesa from Queens, NY

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

Celebrated actor, director and screenwriter Alan Alda stopped by PIX studios to talk about his new movie, Nothing But the Truth. Released earlier this week, the film is directed by Rod Lurie (The Contender) and is based on true events.

In the movie, actress Kate Beckinsale plays Rachel Armstrong, a journalist who has been placed in jail upon refusing to divulge her source after writing a story that exposed the identity of a CIA agent. Friends star David Schwimmer plays Armstrong's husband, and Alda plays her attorney who takes the case all the way to the Supreme Court. The film also costars Matt Dillon, Edie Falco and Vera Farmiga.

Hollywood aside, best-selling author Alda has also penned a new book titled, Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself, which was released in September. This effort is a follow-up to his hugely successful memoir, Never Have Your Dog Stuffed, in which Alda details surviving a near-death experience on a mountaintop in Chile. In his latest book, Alda finds himself trying to make the most of all that life has to offer.

Emmy-award winning Alda is most widely hailed for his role as "Hawkeye Pierce" in the television series M*A*S*H. He has since then been a regular cast member on The West Wing and was in Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning The Aviator, among other renowned projects.

By Charissa Che for WPIX-TV

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

They're arguably the most difficult people on your list to buy for this holiday season: the in-laws! The trick is to give them something unexpected and ultra personalized, and it doesn't have to be expensive!

We've got clever gift ideas for them and Riann Smith, deupty editor of TheNest.com was here to explain.

IN-LAW GIFT IDEAS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The recession has some men and women shifting priorities. They're placing more emphasis on personal relationships rather than professional commitments, and are turning to traditions like match-making to make that happen. Christie Nightingale reveals the connection between the economy and relationships and explains how to score the perfect partner.

For more information, visit www.premiermatchmaking.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You can give and receive during our Gift Week Giveaway Week. Each day we're showcasing gift ideas for the holidays and if you watch you could win a few of the products featured.

Marty Singer of J&R Music World is showing off gift ideas for tech lovers on your list. Plus one lucky viewer will win a really cool electronics gift of their own.

And the featured 32” Sony Bravia Flat Screen TV could be yours! Just wait for the on-air cue to be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911 and say the PIX Word of the Day. Click here to read the official rules.

Be sure to tune in tomorrow when we feature electronic and techie gifts, and you could win one hot ticket item.

EDIT: Congratulations to today's winner Shirley Wilson of Manhattan!

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Tamsen hit Whole Foods and does a little shopping with New York chef Joshua Tepperberg. He shares his recipe for chicken pot pie meal with Tamsen and the two cook up a meal for a family of four. And the best part is it cost less than $25 to do it. Even better, there are leftovers. Check out the cookware courtesy of Le Creuset.

CHICKEN POT PIE RECIPE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Comedian Jay Thomas stopped by the PIX11 studio to talk about his performance at Caroline's tonight, December 18 and his role as Garth in upcoming movie Labor Pains.

The film is about "a young woman (Lindsay Lohan) to pretends to be pregnant in order to avoid being fired from her job. When that gets her a bunch of special treatment by everyone involved in her life, she tries to keep up the lie for nine months," according to IMDB.

Caroline's is located at 1626 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.carolines.com or call (212) 757-4100.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Joe Barraco from Tavern on the Green came by PIX studio to show us how to make some delicious Cinnamon Braised Baby Apples.

Tavern on the Green serves up conntemporary American food with the globally nuanced melting pot sensibility. They are located at Central Park West at 67th Street, New York, NY 10023. For more information, visit www.tavernonthegreen.com or call (212) 873-3200.

Don't miss out on this exclusive Dining PIX deal! For the price of only $25, diners will recieve a gift certificate worth $50! Supplies are limited. For more information on this and all Dining PIX deals, log onto: http://wpix.tribunedeals.com.

Click here to view past Dining PIX RECIPES.

RECIPE, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Tomorrow is the last day to ship your gifts, so Regina Lewis will explain the best sites for scoring last minute steals.

Online shoppers have spent over $15.63 billion so far this holiday season, a number that is on par with what e-commerce sites brought in during the same period last year (according to Wednesday (Dec. 10) data from comScore). So we can expect shipping volumes at UPS, FedEx, USPS is also pretty well on par with last year.

SHOPPING TIPS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

"Evenflo is recalling about 95,000 of its Majestic high chairs because of fall and choking hazards..

"The problem is that plastic caps and metal screws on both sides of the high chair can loosen and fall out, posing both fall and choking hazards to children.

"The recall involves the following model numbers of Evenflo Majestic high chairs: 3001395A, 3001583, 3001633A, 3001669, 3001700A, 3001713, 3001713A, 3001730A, 3001732, 3001732A, 3001733, 3001742, 3001742A and 3001756.

"The model number and production date can be found on a white label on the seatback. “Evenflo” is printed on the label and on the push button on the front of the tray," according to a WebMD article.

PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Click here to read the full recall report from Evenflo.

We're giving the gift of entertainment with Rolling Stone magazine's picks of best dvd and music box sets. John Dioso, the magazine's deputy editor, was here with some of their picks and with a giveaway

The featured The Sopranos ($399.99) and Will and Grace ($175) Complete Series DVD sets could be yours! Just wait for the on-air cue to be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911 and say the PIX Word of the Day. Click here to read the official rules. Good luck!

You can go to the HBO Shop in Midtown and www.HBO.com/store to purchase the giveaway DVD sets.

EDIT: Congratulations to Mioche Boney of East Flatbush, NY!

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Psychosexual therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer stopped by the PIX 11 studio and talked about her new book Dr. Ruth's Guide to Teens and Sex Today.

"Today's parents are faced with a whole range of new fears such as cyberbullying and predators on social networking websites," according to Amazon. Dr. Ruth's new book offers contermporary, practical advice for parents and teens alive on surviving adolescence in our digital age from talking about the birds and the bees to networking on MySpace.

For more information, visit drruth.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free.

This week's free list:
1) Feed it Forward: people can give away three $10 certificates to anyone of their choice now through Christmas Day
2) Breakfast with Santa in Staten Island
3) Hanukkah Menorah-making in Central Park

EVENT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The doctor is in! The PIX Morning News' Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. Can you get tape worms from eating sushi? Especially tuna.
Hopie, Riverdale, NJ

2. Why do women pay so much for birth control? I used to pay $15 a month, now I pay a whopping $35! Is there anything I can do?
Donna

3. What is the best cure for allergies due to the pollution in the air in Manhattan?
Yves, Manhattan

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

The PIX Morning News' Lisa Mateo is live John F. Kennedy Elementary School in East Islip, Long Island where the students are having a Holiday Visit.

The Holiday Visit is how they celebrate their last day of school before their holiday vacation. The students have fun events to kick off the Kids' Christmas Holiday. Santa, carolers, an orchestra and the school band will be there. Lisa will talk to the school's principal Aileen O'Connor about this tradition.

For more information about the school, visit www.eischools.org.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

This week's Friday Forecaster is John Condon, a former firefighter for the FDNY. He's a big fan of the PIX Morning News and has a keen interest in meterology.

John won his Friday Forecaster spot at a Long Beach Reach fundraiser in Long Beach, Long Island. For more information on Long Beach Reach, visit www.longbeachreach.com.

Click here to view our past Friday Forecasters.

WATCH THE FORECAST AFTER THE JUMP...

Hannukkah starts on Sunday and Gail Simmons, food critic for Food & Wine Magazine and Top Chef judge, stopped by the studio to show us how to make latkes in time for the Jewish new year.

Simmons also shared with us her family recipes for pink applesause and horseradish brisket, which can be found after the jump.

Simmons hails from Canada and is the special projects manager for Food & Wine. After graduating from prestigious McGill University, she came to the states and studied at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. Her passion for food writing started in college when she wrote restaurant reviews for her school paper.

RECIPES, PICTURES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Whether in your 20s, 30s, 40s or beyond, you can add a little sizzle to your holiday with sparkling makeup. We're talking to celebrity makeup artist Jim Crawford and he'll show us how to get a holiday glow!

The products he suggested include:

20s - The Body Shop Sparkle Roller Ball, $14.50
30s - The Body Shop Sparkle & Shimmer Powder Puff, $18
40s - The Body Shop Sparkle Lip Gloss, $18

For more on The Body Shop and their products, visit www.thebodyshop-usa.com/bodyshop.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Emily Frances sat down with Tom Cruise to talk about his upcoming movie, Valkyrie.

The buzz-worthy movie is directed by Bryan Singer, whose directorial efforts were also on display in flicks such as 2005's Superman Returns and 2000's X-Men.

Valkyrie takes place at the height of World War II, during which a group of German officers conspire and plot to kill Adolf Hitler, in order to gain control of the military and end the war. The film's title lends itself to the codename for the emergency plan that was to be used in the case of a Nazi revolt against the government.

Cruise plays the lead role of Oberst Graf Schenk von Stauffenberg, a German officer who was one of the key players in the assassination plot.

The film is set for release on Thursday, December 25. For more information, visit: http://valkyrie.unitedartists.com.

By Charissa Che for WPIX-TV

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

PIX's own Tiffany McElroy goes to the Post Office and checks out the letters to Santa that are being answered by local businesses. She also goes to one office participating in the program and helps them as they're wrapping gifts.

For more information, visit www.operationlettertosanta.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Erran Baron Cohen, brother of Comedy Central and Borat star Sasha Baron Cohen spoke with Emily about his new album,Songs in the Key of Hanukkah.

Cohen is a British composer and multi-instrumentalist whose credits include scoring the music for his brother's film, Borat: Cultural Teachings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan. and his TV series Da Ali G Show. He has also created the theme music for the popular CBBC show Serious Jungle.

Songs in the Key of Hanukkah is a collection of songs which heralds the ancient music of Hanukkah into the 21st century, with songs that incorporate aspects of reggae, electronica, hip hop, pop and even tango. The album contains five reinterpretations of classic favorites along with five original tracks, and features the performances of a bevy of world-class Jewish singers, including Idan Raichel, and New York City-based rapper Y-Love.

Songs in the Key of Hanukkah is in stores now.

By Charissa Che for WPIX-TV

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Gloria Wimberly is a Newark, New Jersey grandmother of four and a long time Larry Hoff fan.

She’s been trying to get Larry to lend her a hand for the last three years. Her family was devestated by the Thanksgiving night shooting death of her 25-year-old son, Duquan. But Gloria refuses to give up, and is hoping to give her family a new start with a holiday to remember.

Gifts: This Christmas, Gloria is asking Larry Claus for a computer to use for classes she is hoping to take next year. She also wants to keep in touch with her family and give her grandchildren access to the internet.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

David Vesely of Manhattan Judaica stopped by to teach us some of the history and traditions behind the items used in Hanukkah celebrations.

Manhattan Judaica is located at 62 West 45th Street, New York, NY 10036. For more on the items showcased on the show log onto www.manhattanjudaica.com or call 212.719.1918

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The doctor is in! The PIX Morning News' Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. I have been loosing weight, but my breast size has stayed the same. I wanted to know why?
Roza, Queens, NY

2. My stomach growls constantly. To the point where I hate going in public because it's so loud! I could eat all day and it still growls, especially when I sit. What is wrong with me?
Allen

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

Lauren "Lo" Bosworth stopped by PIX this morning to talk about the season finale of The Hills.

An MTV reality series that has gained widespread popularity, The Hills is a spinoff of the network's fellow hit series, Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County. Featuring most notably Lauren Conrad, Heidi Montag, Audrina Patridge and Whitney Port, the series follows Conrad's life upon moving to Los Angeles from Laguna Beach, California as she pursues a career in the fashion industry.

Bosworth is Conrad's housemate and best friend. She has also previously appeared in Laguna Beach. as "LC's friend."

The season finale of The Hills airs tonight at 11:30pm on MTV.

By Charissa Che for WPIX-TV

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Multi-platinum R&B singer Avant came to PIX to promote his new, self-titled album, Avant. He performed "When it Hurts" live in our studio.

Born Myron Avant, the artist hails from Ohio and at the ripe age of 22, was the first artist signed to Magic Johnson's music label. His debut effort, My Thoughts, went platinum. He has also dabbled in acting in the 2004 film, BarberShop 2: Back in Business. He has recently performed for our troops in Iraq.

The aim in creating his new album was, according to Avant, to "create something new." Avantis available now. For more information, log onto www.avantmusic.net.

By Charissa Che for WPIX-TV

WATCH THE PERFORMANCE AFTER THE JUMP...

It's hard to figure out how much to tip – or if a tip is even necessary – during the holiday season. Lifestyle guru Gail Kasper breaks it down for us and gives us tipping etiquette for every situation.

For more information, visit www.gailkasper.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

PIX Morning News' Emily Frances sat down with actresses Scarlett Johansson and Eva Mendes to talk about their roles in the upcoming movie The Spirit, which opens Christmas Day. Their co-stars Gabriel Macht (Denny Colt/The Spirit) and Dan Lauria (Police Commissioner Dolan) stopped by the PIX 11 studio recently to talk about the film as well.

Based on Frank Miller's (300, Sin City) graphic novel The Spirit is about rookie cop Denny Colt (Macht) who returns from the dead as The Spirit, a vigilante whose mission is to fight evil under the cover of Central City's shadows. Particularly, he seeks to rid the city of The Octopus (Samuel L. Jackson), a cold-blooded killer who wants to being Central City to ruin. Johansson plays Octopus' accomplice Silken Floss and Mendes plays the Spirit's former teenage lover Sand Saref.

For more information, visit www.mycityscreams.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Take a toast to the new year with some special spirits that make great holiday gifts. Spirits and wine expert John Henry joins us with some the gift of spirits. His recommendations include: Glenmorangie Signet Gift Set, Coole Swan Gift Set, Basket of Sicilian Goodies, Palm Beer, St Germain Gift Set, Palmes d’Or and Fantinel

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Andrea Furgus of Flatbush, Brooklyn, and is a single mother to three girls. She’s also trying to get her college degree while working, and tuition doesn’t leave much left over for presents.

On her children's wish lists are:
- Blayne, age 6, wants educational games for the Sony PSP
- Jalasia and Jalaise, age 14-year-old twins, want Apple iPods

And Andrea needs a gift card to hold onto to spend when things get tough in the future.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Leigh-Taylor Smith, 22, of New York City will represent New York on Countdown to the Crown as she prepares for the Miss America competition.

TLC is presenting the four-part reality series Countdown to the Crown which premieres on January 2nd at 10pm and airs on Friday nights leading up to the Miss America Pageant.

Countdown to the Crown features all 52 Miss America contestants living together in the infamous Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA, as they prepare for the pageant by meeting with experts in the field of fashion and beauty.

For more information on the pageant, visit www.missamerica.org. For more information on Countdown to the Crown, click here.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Shoppers may be scrimping on holiday gifts, but not when it comes to their pets. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, 84% plan to cut back but only 23% are doing so on their pets.

Here with some gift ideas for your pet is Bob Dragotti from Pearl Petites. For more information on Pearl Petites, visit www.pearlpetites.com.

Today's featured pooches are available for adoption at Luxury Doggy in Little Neck, Queens. For more information, visit www.luxurydoggy.com.

PET DETAILS, PICTURE AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Jennifer Lewis from the North Shore Animal League stopped by with a dog and cat in need of loving homes.

For more information on how to adopt a pet, visit www.nsalamerica.org or call (516) 883-7575.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Life & Style Weekly gives us their picks of last minute Christmas presents.

PRODUCT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Fans have watched these South Cental Los Angeles brothers struggle to the top of the music charts each week on the BET show Brothers to Brutha, now band Brutha's self-titled debut album is out today. They're in the studio to sing for us two singles off of the album "I Can't Hear The Music" and "Let It Snow."

The members of Brutha come from a family of 13 and have been described as a modern day Jackson 5. In fact, they even performed for Michael Jackson five years ago on his 45th birthday.

For more on the show, visit www.bet.com/OnTV/BETShows/brotherstobrutha. For more on Brutha's album, visit www.amazon.com/Brutha/dp/B001JL2V56.

PERFORMANCES AND INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Comedian and actor Adam Sandler chatted with Emily Frances about his new movie, Bedtime Stories in theaters now.

Known for his irreverent yet comedic roles in pop-culture-friendly films such as Happy Gilmore, Big Daddy, and The Waterboy, Sandler now channels his more family-friendly side in this new Disney fare.

Bedtime Stories centers around janitor Skeeter Bronson (Sandler), who dreams of one day becoming the manager of a motel, owned by Richard Griffith's Barry Nottingham. Bronson is asked by his sister to look after her two children and colleague, played by Keri Russell and he decides to keep them company by telling them bedtime stories.

When Skeeter realizes that the stories he tells become reality, he tries to manipulate them in order to fulfill his dream. The film also stars Guy Pearce, Russell Brand and Jonathan Pryce. Keri Russell also stopped by earlier this month to discuss the new film.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

It’s your last chance. Fashion Designer/Style Expert Nicole Young has the 411 for holiday shopping procrastinators, truly last minute gift suggestions, plus where and when you can go pick them up.

SHOPPING TIPS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

The PIX Morning News' Emily Frances sat down with Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson, who star in the upcoming motion picture drama, Last Chance Harvey, which opens Christmas Day.

This romance flick is written and directed by Joel Hopkins and revolves around what transpires when down-and-out New Yorker Harvey Shine (Hoffman) meets Kate (Thompson), a British woman, upon traveling to London for his daughter's wedding. The two take a liking to each other and begin to forge a poignant and heartfelt relationship.

Billed as a "romance that celebrates new beginnings--at any age," the film has garnered two Golden Globe nominations, for Hoffman's and Thompson's performances. The supporting cast includes Dame Eileen Atkins (Cold Mountain, Gosford Park), Liane Balaban (Definitely, Maybe) and Richard Schiff (The West Wing).

For more information, visit: www.lastchanceharvey.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

'Tis the season of hustle and bustle. Folks are busily traveling to and fro to visit family and friends for the holidays. And many will be taking the train. The busiest railroad in our area is the Long Island Railroad which will see millions on and off during this season. Kristina Behr checked out what it takes to work for the busiest commuter railroad in the country.

For more info, go to www.mta.info/lirr.

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ROME, N.Y. (AP) - The New York Air National Guard will be on duty tonight, helping NORAD "track" Santa Claus as he dashes around the world delivering gifts.

NORAD is the North American Aerospace Defense Command. The Air National Guard's Northeast Air Defense Sector based at Rome in central New York is a unit of NORAD, and its troops stay on duty around-the-clock. They'll use their high-tech radars to track Santa's journey around the globe.

NORAD's Santa-tracking tradition began in 1955. Three years later, NORAD was created. Since then, NORAD personnel have volunteered their time to personally respond to Christmas Eve phone calls and e-mails from children.

You can track Santa's whereabouts at home too. Just log onto the NORAD Tracks Santa website -- www.noradsanta.org.

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The doctor is in! The PIX Morning News' Dr. Steve Salvatore is here to answer your questions:

1. Dr. Steve, I'm 36-years-old and since I had my second child six years ago, I tinkle when I sneeze, cough laugh or cry. Can anything be done?
Dee, New Jersey

2. Hi Dr. Steve, I have lost a tremendous amount of weight and now have "man boobs!" How can I get rid of them?
J

3. As a taxi driver, I would like to know what kind of vitamins are good for sitting down all day.
Dominic, Queens

Have a question? E-mail Dr. Steve at askthedoctor@tribune.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR THE ANSWERS AFTER THE JUMP...

Mattie Dortch live in Newark, New Jersey. She's 65-years-old and in poor health, but still has custody of her 8 grandchildren, ages 2 – 17. She is hoping to have larry help her make this christmas a happy one for her large family.

Her grandchildren are Sahar (age 17), Sahid (age 17), Zakkiyyah (age 16), Hassan (age 14), Jakim (age 12), Ameer (age 7), Ashanti (age 5) and Treasure (age 2).

WATCH THE VIDEO AND WEB EXTRA INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Irish singer, instrumentalist and composer Enya spoke with PIX Morning News' Emily Frances about her new Christmas album, And Winter Came.

This latest effort comes 20 years after Enya's hit Watermark album, which put her on the map, and is her seventh studio album. With And Winter Came, Enya aims to evoke in the listener the aesthetics of the changing winter landscape, as well as the festive atmosphere of the holidays.

Known for her ethereal and soothing vocals, Enya -- sometimes referred to as Enya Brennan -- is one of the most successful female-artists of all-time. Her folk sound and haunting musical reverberations earned her multiple Grammy awards. She has sold more than 70 million albums worldwide, and is second only to U2 as the biggest-selling Irish artist in history.

And Christmas Came is in stores now. More more information, visit www.enya.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

The Eric Mintel Quartet performed "Mojito Madness," followed by "Christmas Is Coming" in our studio this morning. The jazz quartet made its first appearance on our show a year ago to spread holiday cheer.

Formed in 1993, The Eric Mintel Quartet has performed at the White House for former President Bill Clinton and at the Kennedy Center 11 times. The band comprises of Eric Mintel on the piano, Nelson Hill on the saxophone and flute, bassist Dave Antonow and drummer Dave Mohn. Hill has performed with the likes of Tony Bennett and Frankie Vallie, while Antonow has toured with the USO through Germany.

The Quartet's latest album, Ground Breaker "just happened," comments Mintel. The album was the band's response to their fans' requests that they record the music they were playing in concert. It was recorded at Bennett Studio, which, as it happens, is run by Tony Bennett's son Dae Bennett.

Ground Breaker is in stores now. For more information on The Eric Mintel Quartet, visit www.ericmintelquartet.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AND PERFORMANCES AFTER THE JUMP...

This residential treatment facility houses six teens who have been in and out of the foster system all of their lives. Ongoing budget issues mean the home has not had a facelift in quite a while.

We’d like to go in and paint, redecorate, hang new pictures and re-outfit the kids rooms with the help of Ikea – and maybe bring a little cheer to the kids this Christmas Day.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

We chatted with the stars to see what they have planned for Christmas. Celebrities Julianne Hough, Faith Ford, Robert Buckley, Danielle Fishel, Ana Ortiz, Patti LaBelle and Keri Russell spoke to us about their holidays.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

We talked with Moviefone about their picks for the Best Christmas movies ever.

For more information, visit movies.aol.com/holiday-movies/best-christmas-movies.

SEE THE PICKS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Before you watch the Yule Log, the crew at the PIX Morning News are playing carolers and are singing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.”

And stay with us because we have the dreaded blooper reel! We go behind the scenes to see everyone goofing off and all the things you couldn't see on-air.

Stay tuned to PIX 11 and you can watch the original Yule Log right after the the PIX Morning News from 9am to 1pm. And if you're not near a TV (or stuck working like we are), just visit www.wpix.com/yule_log and watch it on your computer.

WATCH THE VIDEO AND BLOOPER REEL AFTER THE JUMP...

Now that your stuffed from your holiday feast, you can get a jump start on shedding those pounds with a few simple moves from work out star Jackie Warner. She'll tell you how to get buff in minutes with the help of PIX producer Ojinika Obiekwe.

For more information, visit jackiewarner.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER TEH JUMP...

Based loosely on the 1922 F. Scott Fitzgerald short story of the same name, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button follows a man who is born old and ages backward. Already receiving critical acclaim, Brad Pitt stars as Button who travels on a decade long journey to find the love of his life.

The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button is in theaters now. For more information, visit www.benjaminbutton.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Get rid of your unwanted stuff without clogging up landfills. That's the concept behind a website that has people are lining up to take trash off their neighbors' hands.

For more information, visit FreeCycle.org.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson stopped by to chat with Emily about their new movie, Marley & Me, whcih is in theaters now.

Inspired by John Grogan's best-selling book of the same name, Marley & Me is a comedy directed by James Frankel and focuses on Wilson and Aniston's respective characters John and Jenny Grogan. The newlyweds decide to leave the harsh winter of Michigan for a new life in Florida. As the two consider starting a family of their own, John becomes unsure of his capacity to be a good father.

Enter Marley, a 12-pound Labrador who, John hopes, will teach him some valuable tips on effective parenting. Despite Marley's unruliness, or perhaps because of it, the Grogans grow as a couple and learn the true meaning of having a fulfilling marriage and family.

Marley & Me also stars Kathleen Turner, Eric Dane and Alan Arkin. For more information, visit marleyandmemovie.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

We're wrapping up this week of holiday celebration with a family in Chinatown with two school-aged children, who are in need of some warmth and household festivities. Larry Claus is giving them a bag full of board games and coats from Burlington Coat Factory.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Emily Frances sat down with Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio to talk about their new film Revolutionary Road. The two previously starred in the blockbuster 1997 hit Titanic. They said that if their Titanic characters Jack and Rose were married, their dynamic would probably mirror Revolutionary Road's April and Frank Wheelers' life.

Based on the Richard Yate's 1961 book of the same name, the film is set in the 1950s and is about married couple April (Winslet) and Frank (DiCaprio) who have just moved to Revolutionary Road in suburbian Connecticut. They promise each other that they will never fall into the suburban interia of the quiet town, but they quickly realize that it's easier said than done.

Frank becomes "a good man with a meaningless job whose nerve has gone missing" and April is "a less-than-happy homemaker starving for fulfillment and passion," according to the film's official website. April tried to save their passion for life and independence by hatching a plan to start their lives over in Paris. Following through with this grand idea, though, tests April and Frnak's marriage.

Revolutionary Road is in theaters Thursday, January 15, 2009. For more information, visit www.revolutionaryroadmovie.com.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

This week's Friday Forecaster is Cindy Barshop, owner of Completely Bare Spas.

Her company has teamed up with New York Cares, enlisting celebrities to donate coats from their own closets. The donated coats will auctioned off on eBay from December 11th through December 22nd. Bids will start at $150 with all proceeds benefiting New York Cares.

Celebrities that have donated autographed coats include: Brooke Shields, Kimora Lee, Howard Stern, Stacy London, Natalie Merchant, Olivia Palermo and Whitney Port. The money raised from this auction will be donated directly to New York Cares. Our own Chris Knowles was wearing Howard Stern's jacket and Cindy donned Brooke Shields' coat.

MORE INFO AND FORECAST AFTER THE JUMP...

Chef Joshua Tepperberg stopped by to show us how to create new dishes out of leftovers! They include: Leftover ham becomes Croque monsieur, leftover cranberry sauce becomes hard cran-apple cider and leftover mashed potatoes and mixed veggies becomes Indian-style samosas.

Chef Tepperberg used Cooks kitchenware from JC Penney. For the Croque Monsieur recipe he used Cooks 3-in-1 Grill ($19.99). For the Hard Cran-Apple Cider he used Cooks 5 Speed Blender ($39.99). For the Indian-style Samosas, he used Cooks 13" French Skillet ($41.99).

For more info on these items log onto, www.jcpenney.com.

RECIPES, PICTURES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

With his gift of clairvoyance, Psychic Dougall Fraser has a special ability to tune into the lives of his clients.

Are you green with envy? So mad you see red? Feeling blue? Fraser says we have always assigned emotion to color and he says what a celebrity chooses to wear to an event says more about them than they may know. He'll predict what is in store for us in 2009 and what colors you should stay away from.

His fresh voice, irreverent wit and dead-on predictions got him named "Best Psychic in Dallas" at the age of 20, and he soon relocated to New York, where he quickly became one of the city's top psychics. He has also been recognized as one of the country's top clairvoyant/psychics by Spin magazine and The New York Post.

Fraser is the author of the best selling book But You Knew That Already: What A Psychic Can Teach You About Life. For more information, visit www.dougallfraser.com.

SEE THE 2009 PREDICTIONS AFTER THE JUMP...

Larry was live at the Iavarone Brothers flagship store in Wantagh, New York.

He was checking out their ultimate New Year's Eve Party Package, which includes a whole array of appetizers like hors d'oeuvres that'll more than satisfy upwards of 15 to 20 hungry people for only $199!

Check out www.ibfoods.com for more information.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

It's a growing trend in Hollywood: celebrities who cheat while they're still married! Life & Style magazine rounded up the biggest alleged offenders who can't control their wandering eye, including homewrecker Sienna Miller and married father of four Balthazar Getty (pictured above).

For more on these unfaithful couples in Tinsel Town, check out the latest edition of Life & Style magazine on news stands now or visit www.lifeandstylemag.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Sadie Nardini, creator of the Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga: Power Hour DVD, showed us four yoga moves to transform our bodies by this time next year.

Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga: Power Hour is available now. For more information on Nardini, visit www.sadienardini.com.

WATCH THE WORKOUT AFTER THE JUMP...

Never have so many game changing innovations hit the market then in 2008. Kurt reviews the Top 5 gadgets of the year and gives the Golden Mouse Award to one lucky winner.

To present the award for the 2008 Golden Mouse Award for "Gadget of the Year" is comedian George Lopez fresh off his Nokia comedy tour.

TOP 5 GADGETS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

We saw some great entertainment in both the small and big screen this year. But which were the most memorable? Here to give us the best movies and TV series of the year is Thom Geier from Entertainment Weekly.

For more on Entertainment Weekly's picks for the best and worst of 2008, check out the latest edition of the magazine on newsstands now or visit ew.com.

MORE INFO AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

New Year's Day is only three days away and "The Fashion Guy" Lawrence Zarian is stopping by with five super affordable ensembles you can put together to bring in 2009 and impress your friends.

For more information on The Fashion Guy, visit www.thefashionguy.com.

OUTFIT DETAILS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

You can use the internet to keep up with your New Year's resolutions. From smoking to dieting and everything in between, AOL's Regina Lewis keeps your on point.

For more information, visit aol.com.

WEBSITES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Whether you're an indie-music fan, hardcore rocker or rap expert, this year saw a wide array of music stars that ruled the airwaves. Rolling Stone Senior Editor Michael Endelman was here to tell us their picks for the best albums of 2008.

For more information, check out the latest issue of Rolling Stone Magazine on newsstands now or visit www.rollingstone.com.

TOP 5 ALBUMS OF 2008 AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

With the holidays here and belts being tightened, people certainly don't want to go out and spend $40 and up for a bottle of French champagne.

But to get something bubbly (and affordable) to toast with during the holidays, Darren Restivo tasting director at Biagio Cru and Estate Wines, will showcase some champagne alternatives like prosecco, moscato and brachetto.

For more information on Biagio Cru and Estate Wines, visit biagiocru.com.

DRINK SELECTIONS AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Larry is at the ESPN Zone on 42nd Street and Broadway hosting a party for some needy kids! And they'll get tickets for free pump sandwiches anywhere in the city.

Larry will also getting the scoop on a major contest for the Ultimate Couch Potato! You can join him this morning to see how you stack up against the competition!

For more information, www.espnzone.com/newyork.

Madonna's split from husband Guy Ritchie was one of the most talked about break-ups of the year. And Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony are the latest couple rumored to be heading towards splitsville. We're taking a look at the Hollywood couples who didn't make it through 2008.

But this year wasn't all bad news for Hollywood's A-List couples. Stay tuned to the 8 o'clock hour of the PIX Morning News to see which stars tied the knot.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

PIX11's Tamsen Fadal learns how to make pizza alongside some young chefs with the help of Famous Famiglia Pizzeria.

For more information, visit www.famousfamiglia.com.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Sarah Brown from Animal Care and Control stopped by with some cute and cuddly pets in need of loving homes. She also spoke about their Holiday Donation Drive.

For more information on how you can adopt a pet, visit www.nycacc.org or call (212) 788-4000.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

We reviewed at celebrity break-ups in the last hour. Now we're taking a look at celebrities who got hitched this year. Us Weekly's Aimee Agresti was here walk us through these powerehouse marriages.

For more on celebrity weddings, pick up the latest copy of US Weekly or visit www.usmagazine.com.

TOP CELEB MARRIAGES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

News, sports and pop culture, root for your favorite morning news anchor when their knowledge of 2008 is put to the test! We're pitting John and Suki against Craig and Tamsen in this quiz.

Leading the quiz is Emily in conjunction with Alan Joyce, editor-in-chief of The World Almanac and Book of Facts 2009.
The book made its debut in 1868 and has more than 80 million copies in print.

To download the World Almanac Trivia Quiz Night Kit, visit www.worldalmanac.com/wa-2009-quiz-night-kit.aspx.

ALMANAC QUIZ, PICTURES AND VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

We got the scoop on events around town tonight from TimeOut NY Magazine.

EVENT DETAILS AFTER THE JUMP...

Dr. Alanna Levine talks about hangover myths along with some tips and information on how to survive into the holidays hangover-free.

For more on Dr. Levine, visit www.alannalevinemd.com.

READ HER 5 TIPS AFTER THE JUMP...

Larry's kicking off the New Years Eve celebration. Log onto www.refresheverything.com for details on free and fun things later today including uploading photos to the billboards and free scarves and beach balls.

New Year's Eve should be a time for celebration. But for those two left-footed revelers who find it difficult to groove to that anticipated New Year's kiss, it can be a real nightmare. What if, in a few short minutes, your audience could learn some new dance moves that would make them the life of that champagne-popping party, a veritable music video worthy "dancing machine" on the most important party night of the year? This is the mission of The Dance Club Divas.

This talented trio, Amber-Joi, MK and Kat, are the hosts of a new, On Demand dance instruction show geared towards bringing out your sexy attitude through the medium of routines that help you lose weight, and feel attractive at the same time. They appeared live on our show to show us a few of their spicy moves to help us start the new year with a bang.

For more information on The Dance Club Divas, visit: http://www.danceclubdivas.com.

Red lips are in and we turned to a celebrity makeup artist to demonstrate how to wear red right and how to get kissable lips for your New Year's kiss.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Kurt reviews the Top 5 websites of the year and gives the Golden Mouse Award to one lucky winner.

Hallmark Magazine's Lifestyle Editor Amy Palanjian is showing us how to extend the life of your holiday decorations. She'll share ideas in which you can use them all year round!

For more decorating tips, pick up the latest copy of Hallmark Magazine or visit www.hallmarkmagazine.com.

HER 5 DECORATING TIPS AFTER THE JUMP...