What would you do if Channel 11 gave you $1,000 in cash?

For the full story, read Howard's blog: www.wpix.com/helpmehoward. If you have a problem, send him an e-mail at helpme@wpix.com or call his hotline at (212) 210-2490.

Nearly seven miles of Manhattan streets will be free of cars for three days this month!

Park Avenue and connecting streets from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park will be closed to vehicles from 7am to 1pm on Saturday, August 8, 15, and 22.

It's the second year of the Summer Streets Program -- aiming to encourage New Yorkers to embrace alternate forms of transportation.

Click here to view a map of which streets will be closed.

Sac’s Place, Astoria’s landmark Italian restaurant and coal oven pizzeria, celebrated its 20th anniversary tonight during a reception attended by dozens of “regulars” and local civic and community leaders. During the event, owners Anthony and Domenico Sacramone announced that all menu items and pizzas will return to their original 1989 prices from August 19-23 in celebration of their two-decade milestone.

Sac’s Place opened for business on August 19, 1989 and continues to offer an affordable and diverse array of Italian menu items as well as a selection of almost 100 bottles of wine. Traditional dishes like eggplant parmigiana, fried calamari, veal marsala and Mamma Sacramone’s famous homemade pastas have made Sac’s a neighborhood favorite. The 2009 Zagat Guide cited Sac’s “amazing” thin crust pizza topped with “quality” ingredients as well as its “friendly” atmosphere.

Sac’s Place isn’t just enjoyed by locals, it has catered to many celebrities like Jon Bon Jovi and director Ron Howard, who have requested their food on dozens of occasions while filming at nearby Silvercup Studios. In fact, Sac’s food was so popular at the studios that Soprano’s script writers named a character after them called “Johnny Sac.”

Sac’s Place is located at 25-41 Broadway in Astoria, Queens. Off-site catering is available as well as on-site parties of up to 70 people. Restaurant and pizzeria hours: Sunday-Thursday, noon-11pm. Friday and Saturday, noon-midnight.

For more information go to www.sacsplace.com or call (718) 204-5002.

According to the National Retail Federation families with students in grades K-12 are expected to spend $548 on school gear this year and a startling $618 for those college-bound. What’s more – nearly nine out of 10 Americans are making changes to their back-to-school plans this year as a result of the economic climate.

To help families make the most of their back-to-school budgets, personal finance expert and Yahoo! Finance Columnist Laura Rowley is sharing tips on how a little creativity, combined with the right cost-cutting tools, can help families save.

Rowley’s budget-savvy back-to-school tips include:

• Shop Thrift stores: Thrift and consignment stores have many of today’s top fashions, all for a discount (value of $100)

• Or, procrastinate: Some of the best-deal bargains are offered after Labor Day (value of $25)

• Prescription saver: Back to school means back to seasonal colds. Ask your pediatrician for generic medications (value of $100)

• Ask for coupons: When shopping in department stores, ask for unknown coupons behind the counter (value of $30)

• Rethink haircuts: Letting kids grow their hair for Locks of Love can save each year and teaches them about a great cause (value of $85)

• Transform ordinary school gear into extraordinary by jazzing it up at home with stickers, monogram stamps, markers and other personal touches. The result is savings for parents and one-of-a-kind, personalized school supplies kids will want to flaunt (value of $25)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE BACK-TO-SCHOOL TIPS.

Emily sat down with the stars of Julie & Julia--Amy Adams and Meryl Streep--to talk about the new film.

Written and directed by Nora Ephron, the movie stars Streep as renowned cook Julia Child and Adams as Julie Powell. The work is an adaptation of two bestselling memoirs: Powell's Julie & Julia and My Life in France, by Child and Alex Prud'homme. Based on these two true accounts, the movie depicts the women who, though separated by time and space, are joined by their love of cooking. They learn that with the right amount of passion and fearlessness, anything is possible.

Amy Adams made her screen debut in the black comedy film Drop Dead Gorgeous. After a series of television guest appearances, she landed the role of Brenda Strong in 2002's Catch Me If You Can. Her breakthrough role came in the 2005 independent film Junebug, for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Considered by many to be the greatest living film actress, Meryl Streep has received 15 Academy Award nominations and 23 Golden Globe nominations (winning six), more than any other person in film history. She won acclaim for her roles in films such as Adaptation, Sophie's Choice, and Kramer vs. Kramer.

Julie & Julia hits theaters this Friday.

You can have a sexy midsection no matter how old you are. The moves involve rotation and balance which challenge every muscle in the front, sides, and back of your torso.

Pair the sculpting plan with fat-burning cardio and we guarantee you'll have flatter, firmer abs before ya know it! Janet Lee, fitness director of Shape magazine was here to show us five moves.

MOVE # 1- Dig twist
Works core, butt, legs, and arms
Hold a medicine ball in front of your hips and stand with feet slightly wider than shoulders, toes pointing out. Lower into a half squat. Pivot on right foot and rotate body to the left as you bend elbows and raise ball over left shoulder. Return to start and straighten legs; repeat. Switch sides to complete set

MOVE # 2- Get up and block
Works entire body
Lie facedown with palms on the ground next to your chest. Pull abs in, press off the ground, and hop feet forward. Spring up, reaching arms overhead, palms facing forward and hands close together (as if you were blocking a shot over the net). Land with knees bent; place your hands on the ground outside your feet. Jump feet back to starting position and lower yourself to the ground; repeat.

Milla Jovovich and Timothy Olyphant spoke with us about starring in the new film, A Perfect Getaway.

The movie centers on the two characters of Cliff and Cydney (Steve Zahn and Milla Jovovich), an adventurous young couple celebrating their honeymoon by backpacking to one of the most remote beaches in Hawaii. When the pair comes across a group of frightened hikers discussing the horrifying murder of another newlywed couple on the islands, they begin to question whether they should turn back. Cliff and Cydney join up with two other couples, and things begin to go terrifyingly wrong. Far from civilization or rescue, everyone begins to look like a threat and nobody knows whom to trust. Paradise becomes hell on earth as a brutal battle for survival begins.

Jovovich is a Ukrainian-born American model, actress, musician, and fashion designer. She began modeling at eleven, and was featured in Revlon's "Most Unforgettable Women in the World" advertisements, In 1988, she had her first professional acting role in the television film The Night Train to Kathmandu, and later that year she appeared in her first feature film, Two Moon Junction. More recently, she has starred in the 2007 movie, Resident Evil: Extinction.

Timothy Olyphant is most prominently known for his roles in the HBO series Deadwood, as the villain Thomas Gabriel in Live Free or Die Hard and the lead in Hitman. He has also had notable roles in Scream 2 and Catch and Release.

Catch A Perfect Getaway in theaters this Friday.

Country star Cooper Boone stopped by the PIX kitech to show us how to make his recipe Roasted Corn Salad.

Cooper’s self-titled debut album hits stores tomorrow, August 4th. You can catch him tonight at Joe’s Pub at 9:30. For more info log onto www.joespub.com.

For more on Cooper and Cowboy Kitchen, log onto www.cooperboone.com.

Click here to download Boone's Roasted Corn Salad recipe

Rachel Nichols stopped by to talk about her role in the upcoming movie, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. The film is directed by Stephen Sommers.

From the Egyptian desert, the elite G.I. Joe team with the latest in next-generation spy and military equipment will against the corrupt arms dealer Destro and the growing menace from the mysterious Cobra organization--an evil organization headed by a Scottish arms dealer--to dispute them from plunging the world into chaos.

Nichols plays Scarlett in the film. She has most recently appeared in J.J. Abrams' Star Trek and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2. She has also starred alongside Tom Hanks in Charlie Wilson's War.

A New England native, Nichols started her career in the limelight by modeling while attending Columbia University, from which she graduated with a double major in math and economics. She currently resides in Los Angeles.

G.I. Joe:The Rise of Cobra hits theaters this Friday.

A Long Island Man was injured in a car accident back in January 2009. He tore his rotor cuff, fractured his neck and cracked five teeth. His insurance company has paid to repair the rotor cuff and the neck surgery, but they are dragging their feet about paying to repair his teeth. In the meantime he has lost over 20 pounds because he can't eat solid food and has had to move back in with his parents, because he's in so much pain, he can't work, so he called Help Me Howard.

For the full story, read Howard's blog: www.wpix.com/helpmehoward. If you have a problem, send him an e-mail at helpme@wpix.com or call his hotline at (212) 210-2490.

Fashion styles come and go each season and keeping up with them could cost you a pretty penny.

Lisa Mateo has the style 411 for this summer and you don't have to spend too much. Updating your wardrobe does not mean you have to go on a shopping binge. In fact, you can find some of the hottest trends right in your very own closet.

It's all about combining the old and the new to make you a style star. Lisa spoke to style expert Susan Redstone to get the scoop on getting looks for under $50.

GO GRECIAN:
What you have: White pants, gold jewelry, a tan! (optional)
What you need: Drapey top by Allen b J C Penney $44 (or Gladiator Sandals $29 Famous Footwear and more gold cuffs)

Magic Sauce is a small company that was started in Kings Park, Long Island by Anthony Mirando and Ron Worthington. A little over a year ago, their first bottle of Magic Sauce, a first of its kind an all-natural marinade and finishing sauce, sold at the Smithtown Fair.

Since then they are in three independent supermarkets chains, The Bagel Cafe in Las Vegas Nevada, the Jersey shore and a few local independent meat and fish markets, as well as a large wholesaler; who is selling Magic Sauce to many public schools to make there children eat there veggies.

Now they're putting our anchors and PIX Plaza commuters to the Magic Sauce Challenge by preparing and tasting:
1. A salad prepared with a regular dressing and one with Magic Sauce
2. Grilled chicken plain, and one marinated with Magic Sauce
3. Grilled London broil plain, and one marinated with Magic Sauce
4. Roasted vegetables plain and marinated
5. Ice cream (which is a showstopper at fairs)

For more information, visit www.magic-sauce.com.

Marlon Wayans, Channing Tatum, and Sienna Miller spoke with us about their roles in the upcoming movie, G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. The film is directed by Stephen Sommers.

From the Egyptian desert, the elite G.I. Joe team with the latest in next-generation spy and military equipment will fight against the corrupt arms dealer Destro and the growing menace from the mysterious Cobra organization--an evil organization headed by a Scottish arms dealer--to dispute them from plunging the world into chaos.

Marlon Wayans has most recently appeared in Dance Flick. An actor, producer, comedian, writer, and director, he is a New York City native who has frequently teamed up with his brother Shawn Wayans, in movies such as Scary Movie, Scary Movie 2, White Chicks, and Little Man.

Channing Tatum began his career as a fashion model and has appeared in a number of films, including Step Up, Fighting, She's the Man and Public Enemies.

Prior to Sienna Miller's professional acting career, she worked as a photographic model. She signed with Tandy Anderson, and modeled for Coca-Cola, Italian Vogue. She has appeared in films such as Stardust and Camille.

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra hits theaters this Friday.

If you don't know much about biology, history, geometry, perhaps you just need the right gadget. Here with some scholarly gear to help students make the grade with high and low tech gadgets is Steve Greenberg, the inside innovator.

• Rondo removable wall decorations, www.rondoroom.com

• Archerfish Internet video camera system (see when the kids come home), www.myarcherfish.com

• LED Book lights, www.mightybright.com

Fresh off her big win last Friday in the Bahamas, Stormi Bree Henley of Tennessee stopped by the studio to talk about winning the coveted Miss Teen USA 2009 title.

Henley is an 18-year old who hails from Crossville, Tennessee. And according to tradition, Miss Teen USA 2008 Stevi Perry was on hand to crown her successor. The first runner-up was Brooke Fletcher, Miss Georgia Teen USA.

Among the prizes Henley can look forward to enjoying are: a custom diamond tiara, a two-year scholarship from the New York Film Academy, evening gowns, a cosmetics package and access to a New York City apartment.

For more on Miss Teen USA. visit www.missteenusa.com.

Diane Wilkerson of the ASPCA stopped by with a four-legged friends in need of a loving home.

For more information on the ASPCA and how to adopt a pet, visit www.aspca.org or call (212) 876-7700 x4120.

Actor David Henriestopped by the studio to talk about his role as Justin Russo on the hit Disney show Wizards Of Waverly Place and the show's new film Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie.

In the show, the Russo family lives in New York City and the three children -- Justin (Henrie), Alex (Selena Gomez) and Max (Jake T. Austin) -- are wizards-in-training. But the down side of having siblings in a wizard family is that only one of them will be able to retain their powers into adulthood. So, the Russo children are trying to use their powers as much as they can so they can pass a test which determines which of of them will keep their powers. The movie follows the show and in what was supposed to be the perfect family trip, a spell gone awry transports the Russo kids from New York City to the jungle.

Henrie is a native of Los Angeles and has done Disney crossovers as his character Justin Russo on the series Hannah Montana and The Suite Life on Deck. Henrie also had major roles on How I Met Your Mother, That's So Raven, Method & Red and The Pitts.

Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie premieres on Friday, August 28 at 8pm on the Disney Channel. For more information, visit tv.disney.go.com.

Supermodel and actress Karolina Kurkova stopped by to talk about her role as Courtney A. Kreiger in the action film G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra.

G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra tells the story of a an elite military unit comprised of special operatives known as G.I. Joe, which takes on an evil organization named Cobra which is led by a notorious arms dealer. Kurkova's G.I. Joe Rise of Cobra co-stars Dennis Quaid, Sienna Miller, Channing Tatum and Marlon Wayans.

Kurkova, 25, was born in the town of Decin, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). A friend recognized her beauty and sent photos of her to an agency in Prague. She immediately landed a runway appearance, as well as a commercial and print ad.

Kurkova became famous in America when she appeared on the cover of Vogue in February 2001 at the tender age of 17. The daughter of a basketball player, Kurkova stood out at 5' 11" with a golden-blonde head of hair. In 2002, she won the Model of the Year at the Vogue Fashion Awards. She has modeled extensively for Victoria's Secret as well as Chanel, Rolex, Christian Dior and Versace, among other brands.

G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra hits theaters this Friday

Written by Pierre Bonny.

JUKARI Fit to Fly makes fitness fun again by introducing a new way to move in a gym workout and is accessible to all women, regardless of fitness levels. The hour-long workout has been created on a specially-designed piece of equipment called the FlySet. The result is a workout that gives the sensation of flying while strengthening and lengthening the body through cardio, strength, balance and core training.

The class will launch in top gyms in twelve cities around the world including Hong Kong, Mexico City, Madrid, London, Krakow, Munich, Seoul, Kuala Lampur, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Montreal and Los Angeles. In New York, the class will be held at Equinox Fitness.

The Reebok-Cirque du Soleil partnership and JUKARI Fit to Fly workout are the direct result of insights into what women really want from exercise. A survey of 15,000 women across 25 countries in 2008 found that while nearly half of all women know that exercise and keeping fit is very important to their overall health, less than 25% participate in fitness often. Specially-commissioned Reebok research looked at why this might be. The findings showed that nearly two thirds (61%) of all women would workout more if it was more fun. More than half (54%) felt exercise was a chore.

Here is the schedule for Jukari Fit to Fly:

Monday: 1:15 – 2:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:45 – 8:30 pm
Wednesday: 5:30 – 6:15 pm

For more information about JUKARI Fit to Fly, visit www.reebok.com/microsites/womens/jukarifirsttotry. For more information about Cirque du Soleil, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Today, August 5 is National Oyster Day and Larry's in White Plains celebrating the holiday with an oyster shucking contest and an oyster tasting.

He'll talk to Jeff Tenner, executive chef at Legal Sea Foods, who will share interesting oyster facts such as: oysters may change their sex one or more times in their lifetime and oysters are a good source of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and D.

You can join Larry at Legal Sea Foods at City Center at 5 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY 10601. For more on Legal Sea Foods, visit www.legalseafoods.com.

Comedian Craig Carmean stopped by to talk about performing at Prime Time Comedy Club and his show Raw Dog on Sirius Radio.

Carmean is a comedian and musical performer who has developed a national fan base. His show Raw Dog can be heard on XM Satellite Radio Channel 150 and on iTunes. He has built a large following through touring and internet downloading of his comedy routines.

Carmean has performed for sold out crowds and packed houses at venues as varied as Improv Comedy Club and college campuses around the nation. He is currently one of the most popular acts on the college circuit. Among the awards Carmean has received for his work as a stand up comic include Campus Activities Magazine's “Comedian of The Year” and New Time’s Best Comic.

You can listen to Carmean on Raw Dog on Sirius Radio and catch him in person at Prime Time Comedy Club in Sayreville, NJ on Friday, August 7 and Saturday, August 8.

Written by Pierre Bonny.

Celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito stopped by to talk about his role in the film The Ugly Truth.

It's a battle of the sexes in new comedy The Ugly Truth. The film centers on "Abby Richter (Katherine Heigl), a romantically challenged morning show producer whose search for Mr. Perfect has left her hopelessly single. She's in for a rude awakening when her bosses team her with Mike Chadway (Gerard Butler), a hardcore TV personality who promises to spill the ugly truth on what makes men and women tick," according to IMDB.

DiSpirito was born and raised in Jamaica, Queens. He started cooking at age of 11 in his mother's kitchen. By the age of 16, DiSpirito entered the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, where he graduated with honors. He also studied abroad at Jardin de Cygne in Paris, France.

In 1997, DiSpirito opened the three-star Union Pacific in New York City's Gramercy Park as Chef and Owner. In 1999, DiSpirito was named Food & Wine's Best New Chef, and in 2000, Gourmet magazine called him "America's Most Exciting Young Chef."

DiSpirito opened Rocco's 22nd Street in 2003 and it was featured on two seasons of NBC's reality show The Restaurant. More than nine million viewers a week tuned in to the reality show to see the ups and downs of DiSpirito's family-inspired eatery.

The Ugly Truth is now in theaters. For more on the movie, visit www.thetruthisntpretty.com. For more on DiSpirito, visit www.roccodispirito.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Read the full story: "Amid contract talks, Paula Abdul says she's quitting 'American Idol' with sad heart".

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

1. I developed severe anxiety a few days ago, feeling nauseous and light-headed. Other than therapy and medications, what else can I can do to deal with anxiety? Are there foods I should eat more of or avoid? Habits I should include in my daily routine?
Jane

My father suffers from diabetes. My question to you is how do we keep his blood sugar level normal?
Walter, Yonkers

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

WeddingChannel.com has found the worst wedding gifts including a tin of potato chips, used set of bowls and a homemade album made with duct tape. We'll check them out and offer suggestions on gifts for every budget.

BAD GIFTS:
Potato Chips. Funny enough, the bride said that after they ate the chips, the tin did become useful since they used it to store their rice
Rooster. Ok if you have a love for roosters, maybe

GOOD GIFT TIP: Get a group gift. Friendly with other wedding guests? Ask them to chip in on a larger wedding gift. Not only will you each spend less, but it's a savvy way to make it seem like you spent more than you actually did. For example, a wine rack with a wine of the month club membership or the couple's favorite bottles of wine

Actress/comedienne Susie Essman stopped by the studio to talk about her upcoming performance at Caroline's on Broadway, the new season of HBO's http://www.hbo.com/larrydavidCurb Your Enthusiasm and her new book What Would Susie Say?.

Curb Your Enthusiasm centers on Larry David when he's at home, at work and around town, as he gets into predicaments with fictional and real-life personalities. The show's actors are given a rough outline and she show is mainly improvised. Curb Your Enthusiasm's season premiere is September 20 at 9pm on HBO.

Her forthcoming book What Would Susie Say?: Bullsh*t Wisdom About Love, Life and Comedy is due out in bookstores on October 20. In it, she has a series of essays on a variety of topics in which she takes no prisoners in her commentary and just cuts through the crap.

Essman will be at Caroline's performing on Thursday, August 6 at 8pm. For more information on Caroline's and for ticket information, visit www.carolines.com or call (212) 757-4100.

Essman is a native New Yorker who was born in Brooklyn and raised in Mount Vernon in Westchester County. She is close friends with TV host and fellow comic Joy Behar and is a vegetarian.

A New Jersey woman booked a catering hall for her daughter's baby shower. She paid $2,500 for the event, but on the day of the party they discovered that the hall had double-booked and they had been moved to a smaller room to make way for a wedding. When she complained, the hall promised to refund half her money back. But when she got the check, it bounced, so she called Help Me Howard.

For the full story, read Howard's blog: www.wpix.com/helpmehoward. If you have a problem, send him an e-mail at helpme@wpix.com or call his hotline at (212) 210-2490.

The awesome power of plants is on display this summer with Wicked Plants at Brooklyn Botanic Garden, through September 6.

Although plants have nourished and succored, seduced and delighted humans throughout history, this summer, BBG highlights a rogue's gallery of the most nefarious, troublesome, and even potentially deadly members of the plant kingdom.

Wicked Plants at Brooklyn Botanic Garden introduces visitors to over 50 plants in the Garden whose capacity to injure, poison, or perhaps just irritate humans is a powerful reminder to tread lightly in the plant world.

New York school nurses are responsible for the well-being of over 1,000 kids each. Nurses can’t be everywhere at once, so Jean will share her tips for maintaining a healthy home and classroom.

Nearly 70% of student illnesses in 2008 did not happen during the "typical" cold and flu season. Kids can begin practicing so these tips are second nature when they head back to school.

Larry spoke to Jean Grabeel, Executive Committee member of the National Association of School Nurses, about "Battle The Bug" at the Bonx Zoo -- an interactive exhibit designed to provide tips for fighting cold and flu viruses. He also took a look at their Whack-a-Bug Game
Battle the Bug Video Game (it literally “sneezes” on kids!), and Trap-a-Bug, where kids try to catch figurative cold and flu viruses in a windy booth.

For more information, visit www.bronxzoo.com.

Pro-football Hall of Famer and NFL studio analyst Howie Long stopped by to talk about his work on FOX NFL Sunday and how you can save money at the pump by using the ExxonMobil MasterCard from Citi.

Long has spent more than a decade analyzing pro football for Fox NFL Sunday. In 1997, he received the Emmy for his work as Outstanding Sports Personality/Analyst and has appeared on ESPN’s Up Close, HBO’s Inside the NFL and NFL Diary, and NBC’s NFL Live.

FOX NFL Sunday is a high-spirited NFL pregame show which includes news, features, highlights and predictions. It is hosted by Long, Curt Menefee, Terry Bradshaw and Jimmy Johnson and airs on Sunday on FOX, right before the NFL game.

Long was born in Somerville, MA. He attended Milford High School in Milford, Massachusetts. He then went on to Villanova University where he graduated with a degree in Communications in 1981.

Long is widely regarded as one of the best defensive linemen in NFL history. Long spent his entire 13-year pro-football career with the Oakland Raiders and holds the team record with eight Pro Bowl selections. He also holds AFC Pro Bowl Record with nine career sacks.
He was selected to Pro Football’s Hall of Fame on July 29, 2000.

For more on Fox NFL Sunday, visit msn.foxsports.com/nflonfox. For more on ExxonMobil MasterCard from Citi, visit www.exxonmobilcard.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Former New York Yankees shortstop Bucky Dent and Subway spokesperson Jared Fogle stopped by the studio to talk about Subway's Baseball Design Across America.

Baseball Design Across America is national tour offering an exhibit that includes more than 30 baseballs designed by Little Leaguers nationwide and autographed by celebrities

Dent, who now has his own baseball school, is best remembered for his three-run homer that helped win a one-game playoff against the Red Sox in 1978.

Fogle weighed in at 425 pounds and, famously, through the help of diet, exercise and Subway sandwiches, he went on to shed more than half his body weight -- 245 pounds.

For more on Baseball Design Across America, visit www.littleleague.org.

90210 actress Jennie Garth and Charles F. MacCormack, CEO of Save The Children, stopped by the studio to talk about how you can help needy children just by shopping at T.J. Maxx.

Save the Children provides aid and the basic necessities kids need to ensure success at school and through life. This year, MacCormack recruited Garth to bring attention to the cause and show consumers how they can help provide basics to needy children with a $0.99 purchase.

Beginning today, August 6, all T.J. Maxx stores will carry limited edition reusable shopping bags, designed with Save the Children original children's artwork, for each $0.99 bag purchased, the retailer will donate one basic item such as: socks, underwear and backpacks to Save the Children's U.S. programs.

Garth will host a Manhattan event today and purchase the ceremonial the first shopping and toss the donated basics into a giant six-foot shopping bag.

She also spoke about the new season of 90210. Rumors say that Kelly's (Garth) guidance counselor role will reportedly come into play as she is rumored to be the first person to uncover Annie Wilson's (Shenae Grimes) alleged hit-and-run in the season finale. Garth's husband is Peter Facinelli, who plays vampire Dr. Carlisle Cullen of the Twilight movie series, whith whom she shares three daughters ages 12, 6 and 3.

For more on Save The Children, visit www.savethechildren.org.

Read the full story: "Brother: Family Had No Idea About Taconic Driver's Alcohol, Drug Problem".

Actor and comedian Chris Kattan stopped by to talk about his starring role in the IFC three-night mini-series Bollywood Hero.

In Bollywood Hero, Kattan stars as himself in an otherwise fictional comedy. In the series, Kattan is tired of being rejected as leading-man material in Hollywood and subsequently burns his bridges in Hollywood and travels to India in search of a starring role in a Bollywood film.

Kattan got his start with the famed Los Angeles comedy institution The Groundlings. It was there that he proved his talent for both physical and dialogue-driven comedy. He later joined the comedic cast of Saturday Night Live, where he starred as such laughable characters as the male exotic dancer Mango and Mr. Peepers, the apple-spewing monkey man.

Though many of Kattan's recurring roles were memorable it was his teaming up with Will Ferrell as the two nightclub-hopping, head-bopping Butabi brothers that garnered the most laughs and notoriety. The comedy skit eventually made it to the big screen in 1998's A Night at the Roxbury. Kattan also went on to star in films such as Corky Romano, Undercover Brother and Monkeybone.

Bollywood Hero airs beginning tonight, Thursday, August 6 to Sunday, August 8 at 10 pm on IFC. For more information, visit www.ifc.com/bollywood-hero.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Singer and actor Rick Springfield stopped by to discuss his new album My Precious Little One: Lullabies for a New Generation. He performed songs "Don't Keep The Sandman Waiting" and "Love Somebody."

Springfield was born in Sydney, Australia. He developed his love for music in high school, where he began playing the guitar and also formed a band. In 1971 he scored the major Australian hit "Speak to the Sky." A year later Springfield left Sydney and moved to Los Angeles where he released the album hit album Beginnings.

In the mid-1970s Springfield temporarily left music for acting and appeared in several popular television shows such as Wonder Woman, The Incredible Hulk and The Six-Million Dollar Man. He later went on to star as Dr. Noah Drake on the popular daytime drama General Hospital.

Springfield returned to music in the 1980s where he released the album Working Class Dog’s, that yielded the classic tune "Jessie's Girl." which earned him a Grammy Award and became known as an popular anthem of the 1980s.

My Precious Little One: Lullabies for a New Generation is available now online and in stores. For more information, visit www.rickspringfield.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Comedian Reverend Bob Levy stopped by to talk about his show on Sirius satellite radio Miserable Men and his upcoming stand-up performances at the Prime Time Comedy Club.

The "Reverend" Bob Levy is stand-up comedian and radio personality who is best known as the host of the comedy roasts and as a frequent guest on the Howard Stern Show. Before his career as a comedian, Levy worked as a landscaper, a painter and a wrestler. Levy was given the title “Reverend” by a former writer for the Howard Stern Show Jackie Martling. Levy has said Martling gave him the name because “he wanted to call me the opposite of what I was doing onstage".

You can listen to Rev. Bob Levy on Miserable Men on Sirius Radio and catch him in person at Prime Time Comedy Club in Sayreville, NJ this weekend. For more on Prime Time Comedy, visit www.primetimecomedyonline.com. For more on Levy, visit www.revboblevy.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

You know the signs: three hits of the snooze button, a must-have second cup of coffee, and an unplanned nap on the train ride home.

With almost every woman you know complaining of exhaustion, it’s easy to write off sluggishness as an inevitable part of life. The obvious solution is to log more shut-eye each night, but sleep may be only part of a larger problem.

Research reveals that the food we eat, people we interact with, and decisions we make can also influence our energy levels. We asked the experts how to tackle some of those hidden drains so you can have all-day stamina.

Ø Power Up: To get through the day without becoming bleary eyed, avoid weighing every possibility. For less important decisions, zero in on two top contenders, then consider the benefits of each. For weightier issues, make a list of the pros and cons of each option, then sleep on it to allow your intuition to kick in

In this economy, make the drugstore your one-stop shop for beauty must-haves on a budget.

For Women’s Health’s third-annual Beauty Awards, we asked leading dermatologists, makeup artists, and hairstylists to reveal their top picks and then we got busy testing the products to compile a list of products that run the gamut from tried-and-true classics to new-to-the-market finds. We also asked readers to weigh in with an online poll.

What we came up with is a list of over 40 products and what I brought here today are eight products that are sizzling beauty deal that you can get at the drugstore for $8 and under.

We broke the products into four categories: face, hair, body and makeup.

Let’s start with products for your FACE.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne
• This facial wash is a reader favorite.
• It uses 2% Salicylic Acid to clear bacteria and makeup out of pores.
• It also soothes skin to prevent over-drying with aloe and chamomile.
• This cleanser has been around for a while and definitely is a must-have classic.
• Plus it will only cost you $6.

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free. That's right! No money required.

On this week's free list:
1. Free concert in Central Park featuring Jazmine Sullivan, Chrisette Michele, Ryan Leslie and Jon B on Sunday
2. Hibachi Grill is offering free sushi until Aug. 16 from 4pm to 11pm

Read the full story: "Confirmation won, Sotomayor set to take oath Saturday as first Hispanic Supreme Court justice".

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

1. If I spoon off the floating fat upon opening a can of soup am I significantly reducing the fat content? I say yes, my daughter says no. What is the answer?
Frank, Mountaindale, NY

2. My daughter suffers from nose bleeds especially during the summer. I'd like to know what I can do to prevent this.
Teresa, Brooklyn

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

The Next Food Network Star winner Melissa d'Arabian stopped by to talk about her new show Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian. She also shared with us her recipes for Salmon Cakes, Fennel and Cabbage Slaw and Perfect Crispy Potatoes.

Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian is a new show on the Food Network where she promises she can teach viewers how to feed their families for $10.

D'Arabian, a mother of four from Keller, Texas, won the title of the "Next Food Network Star" in this years season finale. D'Arabian was announced as the winner of the reality cooking show after her pilot episode, titled the "Kitchen Survival Guide," was the most well-received by judges.

Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian premieres Sunday, August 9 at 12:30pm. For more information, visit www.foodnetwork.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

This week's Friday Forecaster is Lisa Vuono from Lyndhurst, New Jersy. She goes to Smith College in Massachusetts and is an economics major with a minor in education.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Screenwriter, producer, and director Judd Apatow stopped by to talk about his new movie Funny People.

Funny People stars Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen and wife Leslie Mann in the story of a famous comedian (Sandler) who has a near-death experience and what he does when gets a second chance at life.

In 2005, Apatow became the hottest director to hit Hollywood when he made his directorial debut with the huge comedy hit The 40-Year-Old Virgin. The film not only put him on the map, it ushered in a new era of R-rated comedies with heart. In 2007, his sophomore movie – the fertile funny film Knocked Up – was another huge hit which was universally hailed the “comedy of the summer."

Apatow started off as a radio show host while still in high school. After graduation Judd began a career as a stand-up comedian, appearing as a regular on Fox's Comic Strip Live. He then moved on work on writing and producing. He was a writer and producer on The Ben Stiller Show and The Larry Sanders Show.
Funny People is in theaters now. For more information, visit www.funnypeoplemovie.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

What would you do if Channel 11 gave you $1,000 in cash?

For the full story, read Howard's blog: www.wpix.com/helpmehoward. If you have a problem, send him an e-mail at helpme@wpix.com or call his hotline at (212) 210-2490.

Bliss Spa's gorilla marketing team is hitting the streets of New York City to wage war against unwanted hair. Our team of gorillas and bikini girls will be handing out free Bliss product samples and spa waxing offers. Larry's, a gorilla himself, checking this out and getting his back waxed. Ouch!

Call and make an appointment. If you mention the word "gorilla" you get 20 percent off your bikini wax and/or 20 percent off waxing products!

For more information, visit www.blissworld.com.

Instead of the hassle and expense of going to a masseuse, you can use a few of these stress releasing gadgets. Dan Ackermand from Cnet.com stopped by to talk about these items:

• The Temple and Eye Massager, Hammacher & Schlemmer, $149.95
The Temple and Eye Massager soothes pressure points around your temples, forehead, and eyes, common stress points for those who work on computers or read often. The massage relieves sinus pressure and alleviates headaches without the use of medication. A remote lets you customize the intensity, heat, type, and duration of massage. During the 5-15 minute massage, nature sounds play in the headpiece, encouraging relaxation.

Commuting in New York City can be stressful, but there are easy ways to bring instant calm no matter what method of transportation you may use. Paula Lynch of YogaWorks was here to show us:

• The Subway
Ankle-to-knee (hip opener), Gomukasana bottom arm (stretches shoulders and opens chest), Tadasana (grounding, balance), Tree Pose variation (challenges balance, steadying)

• The Bus
Garudasana Arms (stretches shoulders & upper back), Ankle-to-knee (hip opener)

• Walking:
Walking Meditation (matching breath with footsteps), lateral stretch (side bending)

• Taxi:
Seated twist, Garudasana Arms (stretches shoulders & upper back), Ankle-to-knee (hip opener), Gomukasana Arms (stretches shoulders, opens chest)

• Bike:
Parsvottanasana (stretches calves, hamstrings), urdhva Badanguliasana (stretches lats, arms, hands), forearm stretch (stretches fingers, palms, forearms)

Lynch told us that in virtually every commute situation, in any vehicle or place you can always practice patience, detachment and loving-kindness. Breath control is the primary method of calming and focusing the body-mind complex. Practicing yoga regularly will also help bring more calm to your everyday life. YogaWorks has five studios throughout New York City, including a gorgeous new space in SoHo.

Visit www.yogaworks.com for more information and class schedules.

Screenwriter, director and comedian Bobcat Goldthwait stopped by to talk about his new film The World's Greatest Dad, which he wrote and directed.

The World's Greatest Dad stars Robin Williams as Lance Clayton, a man who dreamed of being a rich and famous writer, but has only managed to make it as a high school poetry teacher. Following a freak accident, Lance is suddenly faced with the possibility of all the fame, fortune and popularity he ever dreamed of, if he can only live with the knowledge of how he got there.

Goldthwait was born in Syracuse, NY. He is best known for his high pitch voice which he used during comedy routines. He started out as a comedian at the early age of 15. He made his acting debut in Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (1985). He later returned to star in the next two films in the series. He went on to star in a handful of films including Burglar (1987) and Scrooged (1988).

Goldthwait wrote and directed his first film Shakes the Clown in 1991. He went on to write and direct Windy City Heat and Let Sleeping Dogs Lie. He has also directed for many television shows including Chappelle's Show, The Man Show and Crank Yankers.

World's Greatest Dad debuts in theaters on Friday, August 21. For more on the movie, visit www.worldsgreatestdadfilm.com. For more on Goldthwait, visit www.bobcatswebsite.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Read the full story: "7th Body Recovered In Hudson Crash, 2 Remain Missing".

Scientists are discovering that when you combine certain foods in your daily diet, you get a supercharged health boost that can fend off heart disease, cancer and more. We'll reveal five all-star food duos, explain how they work, and offer great ideas on how to combine them into a delicious snack.

Camille Chatterjee of Redbook Magazine, showed the foods for visual and a sample snack that combines them, including:

• Blueberries + Walnuts (reduce stress + boost memory) = Toss a handful of blueberries and chopped walnuts into cereal, oatmeal or yogurt.

• Tomatoes + Olives (slows cancer cell-growth by 73%) = Try a tapenade

• Citrus Fruits + Oats (lower overall cholesterol and boost heart health) = oatmeal with a side of OJ or sprinkle raw oats over orange segments, kiwi, mango or grapefruit in yogurt

You know him as money-conscious dad Julius on Everybody Hates Chris . Now actor Terry Crews stopped by to discuss his role in the new film Gamer.

Gamer stars Gerard Butler as Kable, an unwilling participant in an online game in which participants can control human beings as players. The sci-fi action film also stars Logan Lerman, Ludacris and John Leguizamo.

A native of Flint, Michigan, Crews attended Western Michigan University where he majored in art. He also played for the WMU football team where he earned all-conference honors as a defensive end. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1991. He went on to play six seasons in the NFL which included stints with the Green Bay Packers, San Diego Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Washington Redskins.

After retiring from professional football, Crews pursued an acting career, playing the muscular tough guy role in movies such as Malibu’s Most Wanted and The Longest Yard. He also played Damon in Friday After Next, which also starred Ice Cube and Mike Epps.

The Gamer hits theaters on September 4. For more information, visit gamerthemovie.com. Everybody Hates Chris airs Fridays at 9pm on WPIX, home of the CW.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Lisa Mateo goes to the Oak Room at the Plaza Hotel and orders up some picnic fun and tries out their new picnic basket service.

The Oak Room at the Plaza offers three different picnic basket choices ranging in price from $40 to $65.

Lisa also found another service that prepares picnic baskets. It's called ThatPicnicPlace.com. They're New York City's only all-inclusive picnic basket delivery service. Check them out at ThatPicnicPlace.com.

The Oak Room at the Plaza Hotel is located at 10 Central Park South, New York, NY 10019. For more information, visit www.oakroomny.com or call (212) 758-7777.

Victoria's Secret Angel and model Marisa Miller stopped by the studio to discuss the launch of Body by Victoria and talk about the Love Your Body by Victoria Contest.

Whether its a swimsuit or lingerie, she can work it something fierce. Miller is all about staying fit, being confident and loving her body. It's the same message in a new campaign Victoria's Secret is launching to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Body by Victoria Collection.

A California native, Miller was first discovered by two Italian modeling agents as she was walking down the street with her mother. Miller soon obtained a modeling contract with Harley Davidson and landed in the pages of Sports Illustrated, Vogue, Maxim and Perfect 10. In 2007, she became a Victoria's Secret Angel. When she's not modeling, Miller is an ambassador for American Cancer Society.

You can meet Miller and her fellow angels Alessandra Ambrosio, Emanuela de Paula and Lindsay Ellingson in person as they celebrate the all-new Body by Victoria line and officially kick off the Love Your Body by Victoria Contest today, August 11 at Victoria's Secret Herald Square from 3pm to 5pm.

For more information, visit www.victoriassecret.com.

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 or call (631) 368-8770 x205.

Read the full story: "Judge approves Jackson film featuring last rehearsals, preparations; merchandise deal on hold".

Uptown Magazine co-founders Len Burnett and Brett Wright stopped by to talk about the fifth anniversary of their magazine, their top five covers and how far they've come in the publishing industry.

In the milestone August/September issue of Uptown Magazine, R&B singer Usher is profiled in "All Grown Up" - a candid look into life as a newly single dad. Featured stories include a fashion shoot in Paris and retrospective of "Clique," event photos from the past five years.

Uptown Magazine, the only luxury lifestyle publication for the affluent African-American consumer, has experienced tremendous growth since launching in summer 2004. Uptown now publishes six times per year (up from four), reaching a circulation of 200,000 and readership of over 800,000 with each issue.

Regional editions include Atlanta, Washington D.C., Chicago, New York City and most recently Charlotte (February 2009). This issue marks the seconnd largest revenue issue to date, proving that advertisers still seek this coveted audience despite the economic downturn.

Uptown Magazine's fifth anniversary edition (August/September issue) hits newsstands on today, August 11. For more information, visit www.uptownlife.net.

Grammy Award winning singer Ashanti stopped by to talk about the unveiling of the "BE AMAZING" billboard in Times Square.

She said the billboard is part of a new advocacy campaign from Boys & Girls Clubs of America's to encourage today's youth to BE GREAT. Ashanti joins some 25 prominent alumni, including Denzel Washington, Shaquille O'Neal and Mario Lopez, in BGCA's campaign to increase public awareness about the serious issues facing today's young people, and issue a call-to-action, urging every American to help young people BE GREAT.

This 28-year-old is from Glen Cove, Long Island and had her big break in 2002 with her self-titled debut album. Ashanti's early Billboard Top 100 songs include "Foolish" and "Always On Time." She also had roles in the movies John Tucker Must Die (2006) and Resident Evil: Extinction (2007).

You can see Ashanti and her fellow alumni today, August 11 at 11am at Duffy Square (Broadway & 47th Street). For more information on the Be Great America program, visit www.begreatamerica.org.

Actress Jordana Spiro stopped by to talk about her role as Ivy Selleck in the new comedy flick The Goods: Live Hard. Sell Hard.

Produced by Funny Or Die duo Will Farrell and Adam Mackay, the comedy centers on used-car liquidator Don Ready (Jeremy Piven), whose marketing expertise is called upon when he is hired by a failing auto dealership to turn their Fourth of July sale into a majorly profitable event. Spiro's co-stars include Jeremy Piven, Ed Helms, Rob Riggle and Ken Jeong.

Spiro is the lead actress of the TBS sitcom My Boys and plays PJ Franklin, a tomboy sports writer in Chicago. This native New Yorker got her big break in NBC's 1998 Saturday morning comedy One World. She also starred alongside Annette O'Toole (Smallville) in the 2000's USA Network series The Huntress. She also co-starred alongside Lucy Liu, Jimmy Fallon, Tom Arnold and Sharon Stone in The Year of Getting to Know Us. She's also had guest appearances on Cold Case, Out of Practice and CSI: New York.

The Goods: Live Hard. Sell Hard premieres on Friday, August 14. For more information, visit www.livehardsellhard.com.

Women are known to carry all sorts of things in the bras. Now there's a new way to do it.

It's called The Racktrap and its newest, best kept secret around. The Racktrap is an undetectable personal bra pocket that holds everyday essentials including license, cash and credit cards conveniently in your bra.

For more information, visit www.theracktrap.com.

Larry is live at Playland Park with the World Famous Wallendas. The daredevil family will show off their high wire act, and teach Larry how to perform some stunts.

You can catch the World Famous Wallendas at Playland Park (located at Playland Parkway, Rye, NY 10580) from now until Labor Day. For more information, visit www.ryeplayland.org. For more on the World Famous Wallendas, visit wallendaenterprises.com.

Actors Lauren Collins and Adamo Ruggiero stopped by to talk about their roles in the original television movie Degrassi Goes Hollywood.

In The N's first-ever original two-hour movie, Degrassi Goes Hollywood follows the high school students as they travel to Los Angeles to audition (and hopefully get) roles in a musical directed by actor Jason Mewes.

Collins was born in Toronto and stars as the troubled diva Paige Michalchuk on Degrassi: The Next Generation. She has appeared in several television films including Virtual Mom and What Girls Learn.

Ruggiero was born in Mississauga, Ontario and has been acting since the age of eight. He has appeared in many plays including "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" and "Bye-Bye Birdie." In Degrassi: The Next Generation Ruggiero stars as Marco Del Rossi a gay teenager who struggles with coming to terms with his sexuality.

Degrassi Goes Hollywood premieres on Friday, August 14 at 8 p.m. on The N. For more information, visit www.the-n.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Actor Ron Livingston stopped by to talk about his role in the new romance film The Time Travelers Wife.

The Time Travelers Wife is a romantic film about a man who has a genetic disorder which causes him to involuntarily travel through time and about his wife, who has to cope with the man that she loves being frequently separated from her.

Livingston was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and received a B.A. in Theatre Studies and English Literature from Yale University, where he was classmates with fellow actors Paul Giamatti and Edward Norton.

His first big movie break came in 1996 when he costarred with Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau in the cult comedy classic Swingers. In 1999, he landed the lead role in another cult comedy classic, Office Space, where he starred opposite Jennifer Aniston. In 2002, he played novelist Jack Berger, boyfriend of Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) in the HBO hit series Sex and the City.

The Time Traveler's Wife opens in theaters on Friday, August 14. For more information, visit www.thetimetravelerswifemovie.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

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

1. What does it mean when you lose your hearing in your right ear? I'm only 16. This happened to me for about three seconds in school then it came back. Every other day, I get a ringing in my ear. Am I going deaf? Please help.
Christy, Queens

2. I'd like to ask you a question about my mom's Type II diabetes. She's suffering from a lot of foot discomfort and I'd like to know what she can do to alleviate the pain.
Luz, Queens

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

Running low on summer activity ideas? Disney FamilyFun's Boredom Buster Awards honor 15 toys that will cure kids' summertime blues - from the Gazillion Bubble Rocket to the Make Your Own Snowman World kit. We'll check out seven of them with Jodi Butler.

Today's featured items included:
• Bubble Rocket
• Legos
• Slicer slide
• Make your own Snowman
• Window writers
• Nintendo DSI
• Scrabble Slam

For more information, visit familyfun.go.com.

Actress Sally Pressman stopped by to talk about the new season of Army Wives on Lifetime.

Army Wives follows the lives of four army wives, their families and an army husband whose wife is in the army. Pressman plays Roxy LeBranc, a young mother of two boys who marries a military man after a short courtship. Though Roxy and her sons now have a better life than before, she now has to adapt to army life, which includes the system of rank that applies both to soldiers and their families.

Pressman is a native New Yorker and is a former member of the Manhattan Ballet Company. She attended Yale University where received a B.A. in theatre studies. She previously appeared in the independent film The Dread and the TV show Shark.

Army Wives airs on Lifetime on Sundays at 10pm. For more information, visit www.mylifetime.com/on-tv/shows/army-wives.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Ever had a bag of lettuce or a tomato go bad less than a week after you bought them? Teri Gault, founder and CEO of www.thegrocerygame.com knows just how you feel! The problem is shoppers don't know the proper ways to store food in a way the will keep it fresh and flavorful. During these tough economic times, there is no room for waste, especially when it comes to feeding your family. The less food you toss out, the more money you'll save!

Teri showed Lisa Mateo some simple and easy ways to keep your food fresher and last longer - saving you time, money and those additional trips to the grocery store:

• Lettuce – The pre-washed bags of lettuce for salads wilt in just a couple of days, since their water content speeds up oxidation. To keep leafy greens crisp for a week longer, take them out of the bag as soon as you get home and without rinsing them – WRAP them in a clean dishtowel. This will whisk away the moisture that causes them to go limp!

• Yogurt – Buy some extra when it’s on sale, but get the ones with a far off expiration date. Usually, yogurts can last up to 5 weeks and you can even try freezing them and putting them in a blender to make a pure yogurt smoothie. HINT: Larger yogurt containers spoil more quickly, so stick with the smaller packages!

On Saturday, the New York Islanders will be hosting tryouts for Ice Girls. It's hockey's version of a cheerleader but they also clean the ice during games, interact with fans and make tons of community relations appearances.

Larry is going to skate with some of the ladies trying out for the squad at Iceworks in Syosset, NY.

For more information, visit islanders.nhl.com.

The Time Travelers Wife is a romantic film based on a book of the same name by Audrey Niffenegger. The film centers on Henry DeTamble (Eric Bana), who has a genetic disorder which causes him to involuntarily travel through time and about his wife Clare Abshire (Rachel McAdams), who has to cope with the man that she loves being frequently separated from her. Actor Ron Livingston, who plays Gomez, stopped by the studio yesterday to talk about about the film.

The Time Traveler's Wife opens in theaters on Friday, August 14. For more information, visit www.thetimetravelerswifemovie.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Tiffany McElroy shared her vacation video and pictures from her cruise aboard the Disney Wonder. She spent a weekend cruising to the Bahamas with her husband and daughter. Not only was it fun for the whole family, but they really got to see just what a Disney cruise offers.

To learn more about the various destinations, go to disneycruise.disney.go.com.

Actor Antonio Sabato, Jr. has melted countless hearts on and off the screen with his famous good looks, but true love has always proved elusive. He stopped by the studio to talk about his hope to find the woman of his dreams, in his new dating reality series on VH1 My Antonio.

The former Calvin Klein model is searching for his perfect woman: someone with the class, beauty, intelligence and thirst for adventure to match his jet-setting lifestyle. The setting takes place in Hawaii and its no hold bar type of survivor competitions to win over Antonio's heart.

Sabato is a former Calvin Klein model turned actor, but that transition for him was easy because his father, Antonio Sabato, Sr., is a seasoned Italian actor.

Sabato is also a huge fan of DC Comics superhero Batman. Aside from collecting Batman memoribilia, Sabato has a custom-made Batman motorbike and a tattoo of the caped crusader's symbol on his lower back. Even his production company -- NAMTAB Productions -- reflects his love for Gotham's dark knight. (It's "Batman" spelled backwards.)

My Antonio premieres on Sunday, August 16 at 10pm on VH1. For more information, visit www.vh1.com.

Actress Chelsea Hobbs stopped by to talk about her starring role in the ABC Family original series Make It or Break It.

In Make It or Break It, Hobbs stars as Emily Kmetko whose aspirations to become an Olympic gymnast move closer to reality when she is awarded a scholarship to The Rock training center in Colorado. Kmetko is the new girl on the team and she faces many adversities on the road to achieve her dream of Olympic gold.

The Canadian actress appeared in over 40 commercials as a child. She made her television debut on kids improvisational TV series No Adults Aloud. Hobbs starred alongside Heath Ledger in the film Lords of Dogtown. She had a recurring role on The L Word and had roles in the Lifetime movies The Party Never Stops: Diary of a Binge Drinker and Confessions of a Go-Go Girl. Notably, she also starred in the Lifetime movie Beach Girls , alongside Rob Lowe and Julia Ormond, which broke the network's ratings records.

Make It or Break It airs Mondays at 9 p.m. on ABC Family. For more information, visit abcfamily.go.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

AnnaLynne McCord, star of the hit television show 90210, will be be in Manhattan today meeting and greeting fans.

She's here to help build awareness and educate teens and young adults about acne and what they can do to prevent and treat it, especially before milestone events such as the start of the new school year. AnnaLynne will share some of her secrets to keep skin looking great.

The first 50 fans in line will have the opportunity to receive an autographed photo of her.

You can meet AnnaLynne today from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at The Shops at Columbus Circle, 10 Columbus Circle, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10019.

For more information, go to www.acneheroes.com

Congratulations to VOXhound, the band that has emerged the victor of the WPIX and Band Slam's Battle of the Bands contest. Tune in on Friday at 8:40am to rock out to their live performance!

Click here for a preview to VOXhound.

Acclaimed salsa instructor Carlos Konig is hosting a free salsa event in Central Park on tomorrow from 5:30-8:30 p.m.

It's a yearly event for the last nine years. His students perform with him and he teaches a short lesson. Larry went along with the ride and got in touch with his inner salsa beast, with Konig's help.

Konig has been teaching salsa in New York for the last 15 years. His studio is in midtown Manhattan, where he teaches Monday through Friday. He also has a salsa social three times a month, which is where the dancers go and polish their dance skills.

Central Park Salsa with Carlos Konig is tomorrow, Saturday, August 15 at 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Naumburg Bandshell (72nd Street, across from Bethesda Fountain). For more information, visit www.salsanewyork.com. For more information on Konig, visit www.carloskonig.com.

Jimmy Page and Jack White spoke with Emily about their upcoming film, It Might Get Loud.

Billed as "a documentary about the electric guitar from the point of view of three rock legends," the film was conceived by producer Thomas Tull and directed by An Inconvenient Truth's David Guggenheim. The Edge stars alongside Page and White. Filmed through the eyes of these three rock'n roll virtuosos from three different generations, audiences will discover how a furniture upholsterer from Detroit, a studio painter and musician from London and a 17-year-old Dublin schoolboy each utilized the electric guitar to launch them into the arena of superstardom.

In the documentary, each rocker describes his own musical rebellion. They also play on the same stage together, share their influences, swap stories, and teach each other songs. The interviews are joined by visual treats, which take us to places where famous songs were written, and pivotal moments in rock history took place.

Jimmy Page is the founding member of Led Zeppelin, and helped define their signature hard-rock guitar sound. Jack White formed The White Stripes in 1997 with his sister, Meg. Since then, they have garnered five Grammys. White went on to form The Raconteurs, his second band, whose debut album Broken Boy Soldiers debuted at number 7 on the Billboard charts. The Edge is the guitarist of the renowned Irish rock band U2, and has been described as one of the most influential guitar players of his generation. His minimalistic style is a signature for U2's music.

It Might Get Loud opens in New York and Los Angeles Theaters today.

Harlem Week continues in New York City with another week of great events. To celebrate, we’re showcasing fashion from Harlem’s booming style scene. Designers BGU, Bryan K. Osburn and Her Game 2 were our three featured designers, each with their own unique take on couture. The Harlem Week Fashion Show takes place this Saturday.

Here's the itinerary:

Fri, Aug 14th, Sat 15th & Sun 16th

1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
HARLEM WEEK Tri-State
Junior Tennis Classic
Presented By:
GHCC/Les Halles Cup in concert with the U. S. Tennis Association and The U.S. Open Showcasing the best up & coming boys & girls tennis talents 
In the region aged from 12 thru to 18.
At Fred Johnson Park Tennis Courts at 150th St. & A. C. Powell, Jr. Blvd....
Free to the general public opening round Fri, Aug 14th, semi-finals Sat, Aug 15th
Championships Sun, Aug 16th
For more information visit www.harlemjuniortennis.org or call (212)491-3738

Sat, August 15th

“SUMMER IN THE CITY”

Part I. “Relieve the Stress” (LOGO)
Morning Exercise
A “Healthy Eating & Healthy Living” Initiative
At Marcus Garvey Park @ 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Btwn. W.123rd & W.124th St. & Madison Ave.
Free to the public
For info call (212)283-3315 visit www.nyrr.org or www.harlemdiscover.com
Call for Info on Rain Option Site

Part II. 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Events Include:
NY City “Children’s Festival”
On W.135th St. btwn. Malcolm X & A.C. Powell Jr. Blvds.

Part III.
National Historic Black College Fair & Expo
on W.135th St. btwn. Malcolm X & A.C. Powell Jr. Blvds.

Three square meals a day? That's old thinking. The new way to stay lean, conquer cravings and get all your daily nutrients is to master the mini meal. Real SImple Health Editor Camille Chatterjee stopped by to tell us how we can snack smarter.

1. Keep Your Metabolism Humming
a. Eating about 3 meals a day with 2 or 3 snacks in between can make your metabolism more efficient
b. Snacking can help your body burn a few calories

2. It helps you eat less at mealtimes
a. You are much better off having 2 snacks between the hours of 2 PM and 7 PM than having a light dinner
b. If you wait until you're so ravenous that you would eat the kitchen table, you'll wind up eating way more calories when you do finally sit down to eat

He was the featured bachelor on the 9th season of the popular dating reality show The Bachelor--Prince Lorenzo Borghese is still looking for his princess, and he is doing so on the new web reality series America's Next Princess.

Borghese stopped by to talk about the series. The show promises that this time around in his search for love, there will be more reality, more drama, and more love. The series promises to be a treat for those who are animal lovers, looking for love, or just love great entertainment and offers a unique "reveal" as an ending.

A successful businessman, philanthropist, and avid dog-lover, Prince Lorenzo Borghese is actively involved in charitable work with the ASPCA and North Shore Animal League. He is a member of the House of Borghese and is also a cosmetics entrepreneur. Borghese was born in Milan and moved to Connecticut at the age of five. He later received his MBA from Fordham University in New York City.

America's Next Princess will coincide with the launch of Royal Pet Club, an online shopping destination for his Royal Treatment pet products.

America's Next Princess launches Monday at 8 p.m. To find out more about the series, visit: www.americasnextprincess.com.

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free. That's right! No money required.

This week's free list:

1. Graceful Spa is offering free 15 minute. Hot Stone Massages on Thursday and Friday, August 20 and 21 from 1-2pm. Everyone must make an appointment!! They're located at 240 E. 56th St.
2. Kellari Parea (a Greek Bistro) is offering free appetizers during their happy hours. Along with another special offer you can find online

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

1. My husband and I are taking a trip to Cancun, Mexico over Labor Day weekend. Do you suggest we get vaccinated for the swine flu? Or are we simply worrying to much?
Claudia

2. What are the first signs of prostate cancer?
Joe, Yonkers

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

Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian stopped by to tell us about their new reality show, Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami.

Following Keeping Up With the Kardashians, the sisters have decided to move to Miami, Florida to open a Dash store on the east coast. The series will also follow their newly adjusted life in South Florida, including Khloe's new stint as a radio DJ at Top 40 Mainstream station WHYI. Members of the Kardashian family are expected to make cameos during the series' tenure.The series will follow the socialites as they make their way through South Beach's sizzling scene.

Khloe is the youngest of the Kardashian sisters and is thoroughly eager to make a name for herself in the limelight. She is determined to establish herself through her radio show, Khloe After Dark.

After years of an on-again, off-again relationship with her boyfriend, Scott, Kourtney is finally out on her own, living the single life. She has recently turned 30 and is looking for purpose in her life--which includes finding a new man.

Will Khloe find success in showbusiness? And will the new chapter in Kourtney's life be laden with romance and adventure? Find out: Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami premieres this Sunday at 10 pm on E!

This week's Friday Forecaster is Michelle Levano, who won the weather spot in a charity auction. Michelle is going to be a junior at Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, Long Island. She is on the swim team for school and for the town.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

WPIX held a contest for one lucky band to receive the opportunity to perform live on the PIX Morning News show. You voted and VOXhound won the spot! They came to the studio and performed "Changes" off their album Another Victim.

VOXhound is John Ruddy, Adam Dunn, Charlie Grimm, Frank Scheno and Lou Mancuso. This native Long Island band was formed in 2004 and they describe their music as "modern, driven rock that will saturate your ears' needs for a sonorous thrill-ride! Tight, punchy rhythms brilliantly complement an array of colorful melodies. [...] Each song energetically radiates themes of pain, love and longing desire." They cite Audioslave, Led Zeppelin, Velvet Revolver and Guns N' Roses as some of their major influences.

VOXhound recently won the 2009 NYPD Battle of the Bands, a competition which pitted seven bands against each other for a shot at stardom, while raising money for the NYPD Widow's and Children's Fund. The band's winning song was their interpretation of "Sledgehammer" by Peter Gabriel.

VOXhound is working on their second album. For more information on VOXhound, visit www.myspace.com/VOXhound.

Coming from NBC affiliate WCAU-TV in Philadelphia, Tiffany McElroy joined the PIX family in 2004 as co-anchor of the early part of the Morning News with Craig Treadway. And when the show's format changed, she was anchoring from 4:30am to 6am and then again for the 8 o'clock hour. This changed highlighted her unique ability to report on a range of topics, from hard news to funny, uplifting stories.

During her time here, we've been able to celebrate some of her personal milestones, like getting engaged and getting married. We also got to cook and taste her favorite family recipe and check out some of her vacation photos.

We're sad to see this classy lady go, and wish her and her family the best of luck.

We'll miss you, Tiffany!

What would you do if Channel 11 gave you $1,000 in cash?

For the full story, read Howard's blog: www.wpix.com/helpmehoward. If you have a problem, send him an e-mail at helpme@wpix.com or call his hotline at (212) 210-2490.

Larry is live at the New Jersey Cheer Factory to fine-tune his tumbling and cheerleading skill. The 20,000 square facility has everything for teaching students the sport of cheerleading. A variety of classes are offered. There's also cheer leading camp. The facility also has its own squad - the Comets.

The New Jersey Cheer Factory is located at 10 Alvin Court in East Brunswick, NJ. For more information, go to www.njcheerfactory.com.

On Sunday, August 23, dozens of cheesemakers and other artisan food producers will gather in Shelburne, Vermont, for the first annual Vermont Cheesemakers Festival.

The one-day event, hosted by the Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese, the Vermont Butter & Cheese Company, and the Vermont Cheese Council, will be held from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Coach Barn at picturesque Shelburne Farms.

The Festival is a spectacular opportunity for food-lovers to spend a day amidst Vermont's bucolic landscape while sampling some of the most delicious foods available anywhere. Tickets to the Festival are available online at www.vtcheesefest.com for $20 each, and the event will be open to the first 1,000 people who register.

Festival visitors can sample over 100 types of cheese from 40 different cheesemakers, a variety of locally produced wines and beers, and several other artisan foods, including maple syrup, honey, chocolates, baked goods, and more. The Festival will also feature four tasting seminars, where visitors will learn how to pair cheeses with wine, beer, and other foods.

For more information, visit www.vtcheesefest.com.

This morning, we're learning about High Intensity Interval Training. It's a cross-training, fat-burning workout consisting of Kettlebells, bands and medicine balls. Jon Gallo of "Now I'm Fit" walks us through this complete full body workout that's actually fun.

For more information, visit www.nowimfit.com.

Actor Bryan Batt stopped by talk about his role on the new season of the AMC series Mad Men.

Set in 1960s New York, Mad Men follows the lives of the ruthlessly competitive men and women of Madison Avenue advertising, an ego-driven world where key players make an art of the sell. Batt stars Salvatore Romano, a closeted homosexual art director.

Batt, a native of New Orleans, has appeared in many Broadway and off-Broadway theatre productions including "Sunset Blvd," "Beauty and the Beast," and "Forbidden Broadway." He has also made appearances in the TV shows Rescue Me and Law and Order: Criminal Intent. Batt is also a successful designer, who co-owns Hazelnut, a design and gift store in New Orleans.

The third season of Mad Men premieres on Sunday, August 16 at 10pm on AMC. For more information, visit www.amctv.com/originals/madmen. For more on Batt, visit www.bryanbatt.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Read the full story: "Mets All-Star Wright Released From Hospital After Head Injury".

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

1. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Is there anything I can do to help? Certain foods, etc.
Melissa, Suffolk County, NY

2. I am 60-years-old and have gallstones. My doctor said I shouldn't have surgery because I'm not in pain. What do you think? Also, are rice cakes healthy?
Carmen , New Jersey

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

It's the middle of August, which means back to school shopping is in full swing, but this year more than ever, value is a huge concern with mothers all across the country.

Thankfully searching for the best deal doesn't mean you have to sacrifice fantastic style or, in some cases, even harm the earth. We'll see all the hottest trends at all the best prices for the season. Fashion expert Kevin Lennox stopped by to show us some affordable clothes for your kids from Land's End and Old Navy.

Ayannah, Land's End
• Cable Zip Front Cardigan- $24.50
• Long Sleeve Rib T-shirt- $12.50
• Corduroy Pants- $29.50
• Riding Boots- $49.50
• SmallHaul Lunch Sack- $9.50

Authoress, comedienne and host Joan Rivers stopped by the studio to talk about her new TV series How'd You Get So Rich?.

The show follows Rivers as she explores the lifestyles of the fabulously rich (and lucky) who made their millions not on Wall Street, but by creating products like Billy Bob Teeth and Butt Paste. According to TV Land, "Rivers -- no slouch in the indulgence department -- leaves no stone unturned in getting to the story behind the moneybags who walk, or rather drive their Ferraris, among us. In this funny and engaging series she searches the country to find out how wealthy people got that way and, more importantly, how they spend their money. It's an escapist fantasy and an inspirational tale for these tough times." How'd You Get So Rich? premiered on August 5.

A native New Yorker hailing from Brooklyn, Rivers is known as a raunchy, politically incorrect stand-up comedienne. She often pokes fun at herself during her acts. Rivers has hosted several TV shows, acted on the big and small screen and recently performed an autobiographical play on London's West End. Outside of comedy, Rivers is on the board of God's Love We Deliver, is the national chairwoman of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and gives lectures around the world on suicide prevention and survival.

How'd You Get So Rich? airs Wednesdays at 10pm on TV Land. For more information, visit www.tvland.com.

Rivers will be performing stand up at the Venetian in Las Vegas from August 27-29 and September 3-5. For more information visit www.venetian.com. For more on Rivers, visit www.joanrivers.com.

I say tomato, you say…Whatever the answer, Barbounia will be celebrating tomatoes in all forms for its Third Annual Tomato Festival kicking off on Sunday, August 19.

Executive Chef Efraim Nahon will be creating a specialized $35 three course Tomato Festival Menu served from August 19th - August 30th. Patrons will be able to enjoy dishes and cocktails that incorporate the juiciest, sweetest and flavor-filled tomatoes from local New York farmers.

Chef Efraim Nahon has created an original tomato-inspired menu, selecting eight of his favorite dishes: 3 appetizers, 3 entrees and 2 desserts.

Larry will be live at Dulce de Leche Bakery in West New York, New Jersey making empanadas and facturas (croissants) and other Argentine treats.

Dulce de Leche Bakery is located at 6606 Bergenline Avenue, West New York, NJ. For more information, visit www.dulcedelechebakery.com.

Rob and Sherie Zombie stopped by to talk about the horror film Halloween 2 which was directed by Rob and stars Sheri.

In Halloween 2, Michael Myers has returned home to sleepy Haddonfield, Illinois to take care of some unfinished family business. Myers is back and as dangerous as ever as he continues his murdering 'Halloween' rampage until he gets his sister Laurie Strode all to himself.

Film director and musician Rob Zombie hails from Massachuesetts. He formed the group White Zombie after moving to New York City in 1985. The group found success with their 1992 debut, La Sexorcisto: Devil Music Vol. 1. He later went solo and made his solo debut with the album Hellbilly Deluxe. House of 1000 Corpses was Rob Zombie's directorial debut and his first horror film. Zombie wrote the screenplay and directed the 2003 film.

San Jose native Sherri Moon Zombie was a dancer and model before she met her husband. She appeared in eleven of Zombie's solo music videos. She also appeared in the December 2005 issue of Playboy.

Halloween 2 opens in theaters on Friday, August 28.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Pop culture expert Shira Lazar talks about travel websites and using social media sites for travel plans. She went over:

• Best sites to use to make traveling easier
• Use Twitter to as a tool to engage an online community (celebrities) for suggestions on travel locations
• Using social media tools to get discounts: companies that monitor for posts about specific destinations

Lazar's hot list of websites include:
• TripIt
• Dopplr
• PackingListOnline
• Expedia (which incorporates SeatGuru)
• Worldmate (app for iPhone or Blackberry)

Lazar has also partnered with Mastercard to spread the word how to win a perfect pair of jeans and a trip anywhere in the world to break them in. The program is called Break in Your Jeans and they will be giving out a trip a day all summer long. For more information on the contest, visit www.priceless.com/jeans.

For more on Lazar, visit shiralazar.com.

Actress Diane Kruger stopped by to talk about her role in the new film Inglourious Basterds.

Set in France during World War II, Inglourious Basterds is the story of group of Jewish-American soldiers known as "The Basterds" who are chosen to spread fear throughout the Third Reich by scalping and killing Nazis. The Basterds soon find a French-Jewish teenage girl who runs a movie theater in Paris which is targeted by the soldiers. In Inglourious Basterds Kruger stars as Bridget von Hammersmark, a popular film star in Nazi Germany who also happens to be a spy for the Allies.

Kruger was born in Algermissen, Germany and studied ballet with the Royal Ballet in London before suffering a career ending injury at 18. She then returned to Germany and went on to become a successful model.

She decided to pursue acting and made small appearances in a handful of French films. She made her first US film appearance in the 2002 made for TV- movie The Piano Player which she starred alongside Dennis Hopper and Christopher Lambert. In 2004, Kruger starred with Nicolas Cage in the hit film National Treasure and also starred in the 2007 sequel National Treasure: Book of Secrets.

Inglourious Basterds opens in theaters this Friday.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Lina Haimelin from Bideawee is here with a few cuddly companions looking for a home.

For more information on how you can adopt a pet, visit www.bideawee.org or call (866) 262-8133.

Read the full story: "Man charged with stealing 130 million credit card numbers in record identity theft".

Gear up for a new school year. We've got cool supplies that don't cost a fortune. Liz Blake, senior editor of All You Magazine, stopped by to show us a few key items your kids will need when they head back to the classroom:

• Biodegradable highlighter pencils
• Oversized key chains in brightly colored graphic shapes
• Book of perforated sticky notes
• Drumstick pencils
• Dynobytes sandwich maker
• Animal scissors
• Deodorizing charcoal shoe balls
• Wite-Out EZCorrect Tape

For more information, pick up the latest issue of All You Magazine or visit www.allyou.com. For more back-to-school tips, visit www.wpix.com/lifestyle/back-to-school.

Actress Jill Flint stopped by to talk about her role in the USA Network original series Royal Pains.

Royal Pains is a comedy series about a young doctor who, after being wrongly accused for a patient's death, moves to the Hamptons and becomes the “concierge doctor” to the rich and famous. Flint plays Jill Casey, a beautiful and savvy administrator at the local Hampton's hospital who maneuvers around local bureaucracies to get her job done.

Flint has appeared in several feature films, most recently in Cadillac Records with Adrien Brody and Beyonce Knowles and The Women, starring Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, and Eva Mendes. Her other film credits include What Just Happened, On Broadway and Garden State. Flint also appeared in a recurring role on the hit CW series Gossip Girl.

Royal Pains appears on the USA Network Thursdays at 10 p.m.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Larry's taking the plunge and swimming with the fishes. He'll check out the sharks at Atlantis Marine World.

You can check out these aquatic animals too! Atlantis Marine World is located at 431 East Main Street in Riverhead, NY. For more information, visit www.atlantismarineworld.com.

Philologist and internet sensation Marina Orlova stopped by to talk about her new book Hot For Words.

Hot For Words explores the origins of English words. Some of her entries focus on common everyday words while others address lengthy and rarely used tongue-twisters. In her Hot For Words book, Orlova takes you on a journey through the origins and meanings of words and phrases. Combining fascinating philology and etymology with provocative, full-colored photos of the alluring author, Hot For Words makes intelligence sexy and lots of fun!

Russian-born Orlova has two college degrees in philology which she uses to specialize in word origins. The sexy philologist became an internet celebrity after hosting the widely popular Youtube show HotForWords. She has also created the website HotForWords.com.

Hot For Words is available in bookstores now. You can meet Orlova tonight at 7pm during her book signing Borders Columbus Circle (10 Columbus Circle). For more information on Hot For Words, visit www.hotforwords.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

According to the National Retail Federation, the average family will be spending $597 on back-to-school purchases. Even though that’s down by 8% from last year, parents are still looking for ways to spend less.

Fortunately, consumer reporter and senior editor of BehindTheBuy.com David Gregg is here with tips and products to help you get the most bang for your back-to-school buck.

• BACK TO SCHOOL PRINTING
Whether it's creating school papers, projects, or capturing milestones such as the first day of school or a sporting event, printers are mainstays for any student and their family. Kodak has a number of options including its all in one series of home printers known for delivering the industry’s least expensive ink cartridges. For big printing jobs that use lots of paper and ink (i.e. photo books, calendars, and DVD’s) KODAK offers the option of using one of the over 90,000 Kodak Picture Kiosks around the country. The kiosks make it fast and easy to transfer the images from your camera, memory card or scan old photos and instantly create personalized projects. www.Kodak.com

High waists, mom jeans, that annoying gap at the waistband. You've had it with jeans that don't fit or flatter. Essence Magazine has heard you loud and clear and put together the diva's guide to denim. Pamela Edwards stopped by with the perfect pair of jeans for anyone.

Curvy
Try brands with stretch & fitted waist
- Newport Jeans Vitamina ($130), Steve Madden Black Suede Hidden Platform Shoes ($99.95), Nine West Ocelet Print High Rib Tank ($59), Jewelry by Robert Lee Morris

Long Legs
Try skinny, bootcut & cigarette styles
- Jeans Vera by Vera Wang ($50, Kohl's), Marciano Purple Bubble Hem Silk Top ($88), Steve Madden Ballet Flats ($59.95), Bangles by Kara Ross, Ring by Kenneth Jay Lane, Earrings stylists' own

Petite
Avoid cuffing
- Lucky Trouser Front Pocket Jeans ($49:50), Guess Jeans Black Women’s Tailored Blazer ($108), French Connection Bronze Sequin Top ($228), Steve Madden Pale Metallic Gold Platform Sandals ($89.95), Jewelry by Kara Ross

For more style advice, check out the latest issue of Essence Magazine or visit www.essence.com.

Host Kelly Choi stopped by the studio to talk about the Bravo series Top Chef Masters.

According to Bravo, "Top Chef Masters will pit 24 world-renowned chefs against each other and see how well they fare in the tried and true format of Top Chef. [...] The winning chef will receive $100,000 for the charity of their choice."

Choi is an Emmy-nominated TV personality, who began her career as a Ford model. She was the producer and host of NYC-TV's weekly series Eat Out NY. In the series, she selects a restaurant, visits its kitchen and learns how to prepare a dish with the chef. She was also the host of the nationally syndicated and Emmy Award-winning series Secrets of New York, which explotred little-known facts and mysteries of Manhattan. This food journalist graduated from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism with a Masters degree in magazine writing, and just published her first book The 20 Most Delicious Dishes in New York.

Top Chef Masters airs Wednesdays at 10pm on Bravo. For more information, visit www.bravotv.com/top-chef-masters.

Read the full story: "Favre's not finished: Football's famously waffling QB unretires again, signs with Vikings".

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

1. Is it absolutely necessary to take prescription medication with a glass of water? I'm able to swallow medication without it. It's been a topic of debate in my family for years.
Mario, Flushing, Queens

2. I have a cyst on my ovary and it's been difficult for me to get pregnant. I've been trying for a year and nothing. Is there anything I can take to help me get pregnant?
Vienny

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

Say goodbye to the beach, and hello to your teach! It's just about time to head back to school and you can do it in style! Cotton Inc. has back-to-school fashions for high schoolers.

Angelique, 17:
Key Trend: Taking summer shorts into winter
Angelique is taking her favorite denim shorts into fall by layering them over a pair of basic black leggings. Every girl has a pair of cotton leggings and lightweight cotton T's in their closet. You can also do this with your favorite khaki shorts and tights. These denim shorts are high-waisted and have a great stitching detail at the hem. We've added a long sleeve t-shirt which has this cute ruffle detail at the neckline, making it a perfect layering piece. On top of her t-shirt Angelique is wearing a fantastic cropped trench coat. If you're going to buy one piece to replicate this outfit, the cropped trench is that must have trendy item. This is such a great layering piece because it takes the idea of spring trench and makes it transeasonal. This particular cropped trench has belted sleeves so it's versatile from warmer or cooler days. And to accessorize this outfit we've added a brightly colored scarf in a fun, floral print.

Tony-nominated actor Jonathan Groff stopped by to talk about his new film Taking Woodstock.

Taking Woodstock is the story of a man working at his parents' motel in the Catskills who unintentionally sets in motion the generation-defining Woodstock concert in the summer of 1969. Groff plays Michael Lang in the Ang Lee-directed movie.

Groff starred in the Broadway production of "Spring Awakening." He received rave reviews in the musical for playing the role of Melchor Gabor, and received a Tony Award nomination for his performance. He also appeared in the 2005 Broadway musical, "In My Life."

Taking Woodstock opens in theaters on August 28th. For more information, visit FilminFocus.com/TakingWoodstock.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Playtime is becoming a little more colorful for children in Brooklyn. One local artist has donated her time to turn a dingy brick wall of St. Andrew's Playground, into a brilliant new mural.

Whether they're on the swings or the slide, playing basketball or baseball or just cooling off by the sprinkler, children at St. Andrew's playground have a colorful new backdrop. The best part about the new facelift lead by artist Halima Cassells -- the kids pitched in to add their own creative touch. Lisa Mateo also joined in and helped with the big makeover. The complete mural will officially be unveiled later this afternoon.

Special thanks to Brooklyn Weinstein Paint and Home Center for donating 15 gallons of paint to make the wall what it is today.

For more information about artist Cassells, www.halimacassell.com. For more information on St. Andrew's Playground, visit www.nycgovparks.org.

Actor Zach Gilford stopped by to talk about his role as Adam Davies in the new film Post Grad.

Post Grad is the story of a woman who is forced to move back home with her family after graduating from college and not being able to find a job. Frustrated and confused about how her life is supposed to turn out, she soon realizes that her longtime platonic best friend is the only person who understands her and her crazy life. Gilford's co-stars include Alexis Bledel (Gilmore Girls) and Michael Keaton.

Gilford, an Illinoisan attended Northwestern University, where he appeared in stage productions of "Equus" and "The Laramie Project." After graduating he was cast in the role of Matt Saracen on the popular TV series Friday Night Lights. He also made appearances on the TV shows Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Grey’s Anatomy.

Post Grad opens in theaters this Friday. For more information, visit www.postgradmovie.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Lisa Drayer of Women's Health stopped by the studio to showcase some of the best packaged foods found in supermarkets. The picks are low in calories, sodium, and loaded with healthy vitamins and minerals.

SWEETS ‘N’ TREATS
• Country Choice Organic Soft Baked Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
You’ll swear your grandma just took them out of the oven.
Per cookie: 100 cal, 4 g fat (1 g sat), 15 g carbs, 60 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 1 g protein

• Dove Promises Silky-Smooth Dark-Chocolate Almonds
Decadent dark chocolate stacked with heart-healthy cocoa flavanols and monounsaturated fats.
Per 5 pieces: 200 cal, 16 g fat (10 g sat), 14 g carbs, 0 mg sodium, 3 g fiber, 2 g protein

The challenge: get creative in your kitchen, for a chance to cook in ours. We’re asking you to submit a recipe to us using Thomas' English Muffins or Bagels in our "Toasty Morning Recipe Contest."

Our first winner is recent college graduate Silvia Tjioe from Flushing, Queens! She's showing us how to make her winning Thomas' Berry Toast recipe.

And what's your Thomas' recipe? Share it with us and you can win a chance to show us how to make it right here in the PIX kitchen.

For details on how to enter the "Toasty Morning Recipe Contest" visit, www.wpix.com/morningrecipe.

Fashion expert Tim Gunn stopped by to talk his role as a judge and mentor on the Lifetime Television series Project Runway.

Project Runway focuses on fashion design and is hosted by supermodel Heidi Klum. The contestants compete with each other to create the best clothes and are usually given little materials and a short amount of time. Their designs are judged and one or more designers are eliminated each week.

Gunn was born and raised in Washington, D.C. and serves as chief creative officer at Liz Claiborne, Inc, where he is responsible for attracting, retaining and developing creative talent for Liz Claiborne, Inc. Prior to working for Liz Claiborne, Gunn served as the chairman of fashion design at Parsons the New School for Design. Gunn has lectured widely on fashion and lifestyle design. His interviews have appeared in a wide range of publications which include Newsweek, The New York Times, People and Entertainment Weekly.

Project Runway premieres on Lifetime tonight, August 20 at 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.mylifetime.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Read the full story: "NYPD to crackdown on drivers using hand-held cell phones".

Gear up for a new school year by making your dorm room the campus hot spot! We've got cool supplies that don't cost a fortune. Joe Patrick of Bed, Bath & Beyond stopped by with affordable dorm room essentials.

He also talked about how families can get some help paying for tuition through the Bed Bath & Beyond and MasterCard 2009 Tuition Sweepstakes. From July 1st - September 8th, consumers can enter for a chance to win $55,000 for college and a $10,000 Donation to the college of their choice or other prizes when they use their MasterCard Card at Bed Bath & Beyond.

• Torrey Beach Mini Comforter Sets, 100% Cotton
The Torrey Beach pattern features vibrant shades of royal blue, neon pink, lemon yellow and kelly green over a white background. This mini comforter set is warm and cozy and serves to update your bedroom or dorm room with its modern geometric appeal. 100% cotton with 100% polyester fill. 300 thread count. Twin comforter set includes one 68" L x 90" W comforter and one standard sham. Full/Queen duvet cover set includes one 92" L x 96" W comforter and two standard shams. Machine wash. Imported.
16577324 (TXL Sheet Set) 165772286 (Twin Comforter Set), $49.99 for the TXL sheet set (Includes flat sheet, fitted sheet and pillowcase), $99.99 for the Twin comforter and shams

Jeff Lewis and Jenni Pulos stopped by to talk about the Bravo original series Flipping Out.

Flipping Out is a reality TV series, which centers on Lewis, a real estate investor. The series also features his entourage that includes his Chief Executive Assistant Jenni, other assistants and helpers, and the houses that he works to buy and sell for profit.

Flipping Out is in it's third season on Bravo and airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.bravotv.com/flipping-out.

Written by Pierre Bonny

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus are bringing a special installation of The Greatest Show On Earth - "The Coney Island Boom-A-Ring!" - to Coney Island this summer.

The show will include Vicenta Pages and her seven white Bengal tigers; the Urias family, known as The First Family of the Motorcycle Globe; the New York debut of The Negrey Troupe, a world-renowned retinue of Russian acrobats; "Eccentric Personality Extraordinaire" Justin Case; and a trio of Asian elephants. The show will run on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from June 18th through September 7th.

The Coney Island Boom-A-Ring is at West 21st Street (between Surf Ave and the boardwalk) in Coney Island, Brooklyn.

Larry's talking to Jason Gibson, spokesperson from Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey
Aerialist Liina Aunola, Karl Wynn on the Wheel of Steel and the Urias Family in the Motorcycle Globe of Steel.

For more information, visit http://www.ringling.com.

Comedian JB Smoove stopped by to talk about starring in the new season of the hit HBO comedy series Curb Your Enthusiasm and his upcoming stand up comedy appearances at The Stress Factory Comedy Club.

Curb Your Enthusiasm centers on Larry David when he's at home, at work and around town, as he gets into predicaments with fictional and real-life personalities. The show's actors are given a rough outline and she show is mainly improvised. Curb Your Enthusiasm's season premiere is September 20 at 9pm on HBO.

Funnyman J.B. Smoove was born in Plymouth, North Carolina and raised in Mount Vernon, New York. J.B. whose real name is Jerry Brooks began using his stage name when he performed as a hip-hop dancer. He later transitioned into stand up comedy by honing his craft at several NYC comedy clubs. He then moved on to acting by landing small roles in films which allowed him to star along comedic veterans such as Chris Rock in Pootie Tang and Adam Sandler in Mr. Deeds.

J.B. is best known for his role as the hilarious Leon Black in the hit comedy series Curb Your Enthusiasm. He had reoccurring roles on the hit CW show Everybody Hates Chris. He also worked as a writer on Saturday Night Live, where he received the 2007 Writers Guild of America award for Best Comedy/Variety Series (Including Talk).

You can catch J.B. Smoove at the Stress Factory Comedy Club in New Brunswick, N.J. tonight and on Saturday, August 22. For ticket and show information on go to www.stressfactory.com

Written by Pierre Bonny

A half-century ago today, the territory of Hawaii became America’s 50th state. The archipelago boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and picturesque terrain in the world. But its not all palm trees and sand, there's deep history and culture.

Lauren Gallant from Hawaiian Tropic Zone stopped by to talk about Hawaiian-influenced cuisine and what they’re doing for the state’s 50th birthday. Hawaiian Tropic Zone dancers and their hula instructor Kawai also performed for us.

For more information, visit www.hawaiiantropiczone.com.

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free. That's right! No money required.

This week's free list includes:
1. Spiff for Men, Grooming and Barber is offering men a free manicure and shoe shining from 9am-7pm from Monday, August 24 to Friday, August 28 in Manhattan (men must make an appointment OR check availability on the website)
2. J&R Music is hosting the 2009 Downtown MusicFest. Free performances from various artists starting Thursday, August 27 to Saturday, August 29 in Manhattan

The Wiggles stopped by to perform and talk about their new CD and DVD Hot Potatoes!: The Best of The Wiggles. They performed their hit songs "Follow The Leader" and "Getting Strong."

The Wiggles are a childrens musical group formed in Sydney, Australia in 1991. The group members consist of Anthony Field, Murray Cook, Sam Moran, Jeff Fatt and Phillip Wilcher. The Wiggles, who are known as "the world's biggest preschool band" are celebrating their 18th year together.

The Wiggles have created a catalogue of music, television, video and film that have proven to be modern classics.The group has achieved worldwide success with their children's albums, videos, television series, and concert appearances. They have also earned several gold, platinum, and multi-platinum awards for their CD and DVD sales.

The Wiggles will be appearing at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, NY today and Saturday, August 21. Hot Potatoes! The Best of The Wiggles is available online. For more information on the Wiggles go to wiggletime.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Read the full story: "Ex-Giant Burress Pleads Guilty, Agrees To 2-Year Jail Term".

Reading, writing and arithmetic are important. But, for kids, it's all about lunchtime. So, why not take the opportunity to feed them the nutrients they need to succeed. Here with the "do's" and "don'ts" of school lunches are The Nutrition Twins Tammy Lakatos Shames and Elysse Lakatos.

Bologna and Cheese on White Bread with Mayo and an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie
Wrong - White bread sandwich with bologna, cheese and mayo; and an oatmeal raisin cookie for a snack (refined bread, fatty meat and dairy and a fatty condiment (550 calories, 33 grams fat). Don't be tricked-oatmeal raisin cookie is still a cookie and can contain 300-400 calories)

Right - Cheese (low-fat ) sandwich on whole grain bread, (can use cookie cutters to cut into fun shapes), red pepper dipped in hummus (whole grain, healthy carbohydrate sandwich filled with calcium rich protein, fun to eat with anti-oxidant rich veggie and heart healthy fat); and pistachios (skinny nut-shells make it mindful, satiating because high in protein and fiber & blueberries (packed with antioxidants) for a snack)

This week's Friday Forecaster is Diane Rokkos, who won the forecasting spot at the The Beauty Foundation's Beauty Ball fundraiser in Colts Neck, New Jersey.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Syracuse University Coach Jim Boeheim stopped by to talk about his role as the spokesperson for the Know Your Score: Fight Prostate Cancer campaign and the upcoming season of the Syracuse Orange mens basketball team.

Boeheim is the head coach of the Syracuse mens basketball team. He is a prostate cancer survivor and will be hosting the prostate awareness campaign’s celebrity golf tournament on August 29 at Long Bay Club in North Myrtle Beach.

Coach Boeheim has led the Orangemen basketball to a 799-288 record (.735 winning percentage) and 26 NCAA Tournament appearances, including defeating Kansas in the 2003 national championship, three Final Four berths and 14 Sweet 16 appearances. Boeheim is a member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Last summer, he was an assistant on USA basketball team that captured the gold medal in the Beijing Olympics.

For more on Know Your Score: Fight Prostate Cancer, visit www.fightprostatecancer.org. For more on Syracuse Athletics, visit www.suathletics.com.

Written by Pierre Bonny

The steps to putting your kids in charge of their financial future! One of the goals as a parent is to prepare your kids for the future. We know to teach them about everything from manners to hygiene to making friends, but have you educated them on money management?

As an adult we know that managing money involves knowing how to save, spend, invest, share and borrow wisely. So how can we translate these important lessons for our kids without repeateding the old adage "Money doesn't grow on trees"? Money management educator Karyn Hodgens stopped by the studio to explain.

• Getting Money In Their Hands
- Allowances, part time jobs
- Allow them to make decisions about their money

Are you a "boot camper" or "yogi?" Now you can find "Iinfinite Balance" with both! It's the first-ever yoga+bootcamp fusion class in New York City. Here with the details are Stacy Berman, founder of Stacy's Bootcamp, and Candace Morano, founder of Vidia Yoga.

• Burpee - A squat thrust with a jump squat at the end works legs, core and cardiovascular system

• Side-To-Side Pushup - Works chest, back, shoulder, tricep and core

• Parsvottanasana - Lengthens back of legs (hamstrings), opens chest, elongates spine, mild inversion for circulation

• Eka Pada Kapotasana - Lengthens and opens front body, stretches both shoulders, stretch hip flexors, stretches quadriceps of bent leg

For more info Infinite Balance offered by Stacy's Bootcamp and Vidia Yoga, visit www.stacysbootcamp.com.

Actress Lori Loughlin stopped by to talk about her role on the hit CW series 90210 and her work as the national spokesperson for the Voices of Meningitis.

Voices of Meningitis is a multifaceted campaign designed to help school nurses inform families that, although rare, meningococcal disease is very serious and can potentially cause death or disability of an otherwise healthy pre-teen and teen in just a single day.

Loughlin was born in Queens and was raised on Long Island in Hauppauge. She is, perhaps, best known as for her role as her role as Aunt Becky on the ABC family series Full House. Loughlin also co-created, produced and starred in the television drama series Summerland. She currently stars as mother and photographer Debbie Wilson on 90210.

The second season of 90210 is on September 9 at 8pm on WPIX. For more information, visit www.wpix.com.

For more on the Voices of Meningitis, visit www.voicesofmeningitis.org.

Written by Pierre Bonny

Read the full story: "Paterson Blames Racism for His Unpopularity".

Six months, nine months or 12 months? When should you start feeding your baby solids? Super Mom Lisa Mateo's got an age-by-age guide to taking your baby from liquids to solids with Baby Talk magazine.

Keep in mind: mealtime isn't just about the food. It's recommended you sit and eat alongside your baby at least once a day. Just like adults, your child will enjoy the socializing that comes with mealtime, and they'll start to look forward to it.

For the latest on health and nutrition for your little one, check out the September issue of Baby Talk on newsstands or visit www.parenting.com/babytalk.

The Chelsea Piers Sports Center and BlueStreak have joined forces to create the ultimate boot camp.

Sweat it out three days a week with the newest fitness program at Chelsea Piers BlueStreak. The brainchild of BlueStreak Program Director Shane Palahicky and Sports Center trainer Gerald Moore, The Beast is the ultimate boot camp for motivated adults who want to take their training to the next level.

Participants get two days of squat thrusts, suicides, lunges, obstacle courses and 150,000 square feet of space for innovative, heart-pounding fitness fun. On the third day, BlueStreak serves as home base, where athletes train on Olympic-caliber equipment, taking advantage of Dartfish video analysis, Super Treadmills and the state-of-the-art Plyo Platform.

Small groups, individualized attention and dynamic training yield concrete results in an environment conducive to the most versatile training available in New York City

For more information on Chelsea Piers BlueStreak and The Beast, visit chelseapiers.com.

Dan Costa of PCMag.com shared a few examples and reviews of the best, most cost-effective laptops and netbooks for students, including college kids heading back to school and incoming freshman.

• Toshiba mini NB205, $399
• Acer Aspire One A0751H ($350
• Dell Studio 14z, $1,004
• Apple Macbook Pro 13-inch, $1,199
• Lenovo Ideapad U350, $650
• HP Pavilion dv3, $850

For more laptop and notebook reviews and the digital version of PC Magazine, visit www.pcmag.com.

How do celebrities get that flawless glow on the red carpet? And how do the stars get rid of their cellulite and look bikini perfect? Life & Style magazine's beauty director, Caitlin Kiernan, is here to share all the stars secrets to getting glammed up and how you can too in their 2009 Annual Beauty Awards.

Life & Style's expert panel - including Kim Kardashian, Lara Spencer, Rita Hazan, Scott Barnes - tested hundreds of products over the last several months and narrowed down the winners in 46 categories. We'll check out how stars get flawless skin, shiny hair and a sparkling smile.

1. Cellulite Treatment Winner:
Nivea Body Good-bye Cellulite Patches, $13, amazon.com
Celebrity Fan: Kim Kardashian

2. Mascara Winner:
YSL Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara in Burgundy, Deep Night and Khaki Green, $29 each, yslbeautyus.com
Celebrity Fan: Mary-Kate Olsen

Jennifer Lewis from the North Shore Animal League stopped by with some four-legged friends in need of loving homes.

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

Read the full story: "AP Source: Jackson died from lethal mix of drugs for insomnia, death ruled homicide".

Constance Stellas astrologer and author of The Everything Sex Signs Book will be here to discuss how the stars can determine sexual chemistry and talk about the different characteristics of each of the four elemental signs: earth, air, fire and water.

Stellas also went over some hot (and not-so-hot) sign combinations and determined the sexual chemistry for our Tamsen Fadal (a fire sign), Jill Nicolini (an earth sign), Linda Church (an air sign) and John Muller (an air sign).

Find out which sign you are:

• Fire Sign - Aries, Leo and Sagittarius
• Earth Sign - Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn
• Air Sign - Gemini, Libra, Aquarius
• Water Sign - Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

The Everything Sex Signs Book is available in stores now. For more information, visit www.constancestellas.com. For your daily horoscope, visit www.wpix.com.

We are in for another scorcher today and, according to group that tracks stray electrical voltage, the temperature actually raises your risk for getting an electric shock on the street.

Our James Ford was live in PIX Plaza with an exclusive look at an online tool that says it can do what electric companies, including ConEd, cannot. It's called StreetZaps and their goal is to "reduce the year round risk of injury and fatality from contact voltage shocking or electrocution resulting from damaged or tampered wiring."

For more information on StreetZaps, visit www.streetzaps.com.

Dr Pepper is kicking off the college football season with a million dollar challenge.

A long-time supporter of college football, Dr Pepper has joined forces with College Football Hall of Fame head coach Lou Holtz to give consumers and students the chance to win more than $1 million in scholarships throughout the 2009 college football season.

Starting September 1, Dr Pepper will give away a daily $1,000 scholarship in the $1,000 a Day Tuition Giveaway as well as the chance for three lucky fans to win the $123,000 Scholarship Promotion & Contest!

Actress Julie Benz stopped by to talk about her role as Rita Bennett in the hit Showtime series Dexter.

The series is set in Miami where Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall) is a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department. But he's not the typical criminologist -- he's also a serial killer. Rita is Dexter's wife. Dexter is based on the book Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay.

Benz's movie credits include Rambo, As Good As It Gets, George of the Jungle 2, Jawbreaker and indie flick Kill Your Darlings. Her TV credits include her long-time role as Darla on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel, King of Queens, Supernatural and CSI: Miami.

The fourth season of Dexter premieres on Sunday, September 27. For more information, visit sho.com/site/dexter.

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

1. I have never gotten a flu shot, but with the outbreak of the swine flu I will definitely get one this year. But, do I need a swine flu shot in addition to a regular flu shot?
Daisy, Weehawken, New Jersey

2. I was referred to a gastroenterologist who he told me it's normal for a person to last days, even weeks, without using the bathroom. Is that true?
Kathy, Far Rockaway, Queens

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

Like it or not, every guy—even the nice ones—won’t tell the truth now and then. Men often tell little lies to avoid conflict (like about having to work late the same night as your best friend’s birthday dinner).

The next time you get the nagging feeling that he’s full of it, use these strategies to trigger a voluntary confession. Cosmopolitan magazine editor Molly Triffin stopped by the studio to explain the four easy steps.

• Bring His Guard Down: Position yourself across the room from him—if he’s sitting on the couth, sit on the floor six to nine feet away. When a guy is on edge, sitting lower than him signals it’s a non-threatening conversation.

• Start General: Lead off with a question that’s related to the lie. For example if you suspect he fibbed about doing something you had asked, say. "So how did that thing go?" Meanwhile appear distracted by flipping TV channels or messing around on your laptop.

School will be back in session soon enough. It's time to get your children back into the habit of getting plenty of sleep and eating right. And if you're looking for suggestions for healthy meals and snacks, our Lisa Mateo has a few ideas.

She went to her local Stop and Shop to get a little expert advice from dietician Christine Palumbo on what your kids should be eating and the secret to a good breakfast.

For more healthy meal and snack ideas, visit www.stopandshop.com.

LI Maritime Museum Festival is taking place on Friday, August 28 and Saturday, August 29 in Patchogue, Long Island! Jill's getting a preview of the event and raising the sail with some pirates. She'll also check out their ship, other types of nautical activities and get a sampling of the Pirate Seafood Feast.

For more information, www.limaritime.org.

The New York Times bestselling author J. Randy Taraborrelli stopped by the studio to talk about his new book The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe.

The biography centers on the role of '50s pop icon Marilyn Monroe's mother and her influence on her famous daughter's life. Common lore says Monroe's mother was not present in her life but Taraborrelli shows that her mentally ill mother part of a the complex, behind-these-scenes family dynamic.

"Taraborrelli draws complex and sympathetic portraits of the women so influential in the actress' life, including her mother, her foster mother, and her legal guardian. He also reveals, for the first time, the shocking scope of Marilyn's own mental illness, the identity of Marilyn's father and the half-brother she never knew, and new information about her relationship with the Kennedy's-Bobby, Jack, and Pat Kennedy Lawford," according to Amazon.

Taraborrelli has written more than 15 biographies including Call Her Miss Ross, Sinatra: Behind the Legend, Madonna: An Intimate Biography, Jackie, Ethel, Joan: Women of Camelot and Elizabeth. His current bestseller is Michael Jackson: The Magic, The Madness, The Whole Story.

The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe is available in stores now. For more information, visit www.jrandytaraborrelli.com.

Actor and stand-up comedian Tommy Davidson stopped by to talk about his role as Cream Corn in the new movie Black Dynamite and his upcoming performances at Caroline's.

The comedy is set in the 1970s and is about African-American action legend Black Dynamite. "The Man killed his brother, pumped heroin into local orphanages, and flooded the ghetto with adulterated malt liquor. Black Dynamite was the one hero willing to fight The Man all the way from the blood-soaked city streets to the hallowed halls of the Honky House," according to IMDB.

Davidson is a native of Washington, D.C. is perhaps best remembered as one of the original castmembers of the hit '90s sketch comedy series In Living Color. His film credits include Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Booty Call and Juwanna Mann.

Black Dynamite prremieres on Friday, September 4 in theaters. For more information, visit www.blackdynamitemovie.com. You can catch Davidson at Caroline's tonight, August 27 thru Sunday, August 30. Caroline's On Broadway is located at 1626 Broadway, New York, NY 10019. For ticket and show information, call (212) 757-4100 or visit www.carolines.com.

The world’s top tennis players and chefs are set to serve-up the US Open’s hottest pre-tournament action at the 10th Annual BNP Paribas Taste Of Tennis.

This year’s lineup includes tennis superstars Andy Roddick, Tommy Haas, Billie Jean King and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, who will cook-up culinary aces alongside TV personality and celebrity chef Bethenny Frankel, Carla Hall and Ariane Duarte from Bravo’s Top Chef, and Gotham Bar and Grill’s Alfred Portale.

One of summer’s most anticipated New York nighttime events, BNP Paribas Taste Of Tennis gives guests the chance to mingle with their favorite tennis stars and chefs while sampling an eclectic mix of specially-designed dishes that earn rave reviews each year.

Vera Zvonareva (Ranked 7 in the world) along with Chef Adrian Richardson stopped by the studio by to cook up some of the delicacies that will be served at the event.

The star-studded charity event, produced by AYS Sports Marketing and benefiting the Food Bank For New York City, is set for Thursday, August 27, 7pm-10pm at the W New York. ESPN personality Hannah Storm will serve as emcee for the evening.

For more information and tickets call (877) 282-7100 or visit www.bnpparibastasteoftennis.com.

Singer Tina Parol stopped by the studio to perform her singles "Hold Onto Your Heart" and "Who's Got Your Money?".

When she was 11, Parol wrote her first song "Gypsy Woman." When she grew up, she studied record engineering at New York University. Among her major influences are The Police, Blondie, Queen and The Clash. Not surprisingly, Parol says music is her biggest passion in life. When she's with her friends, she says they don't call her Tina -- they call her Miss Rainbowbrite because of her colorful clothing selection. She cites Debbie Harry as her biggest fashion inspiration and Vivienne Westwood as her favorite designer.

For more information on Parol, visit www.tinaparol.com and www.myspace.com/tinaparol.

The United States Tennis Association is prepping for the US Open next week and they're kicking off the event with Saturday's Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day!

We're talking to some of the kids on the court today to see why they're excited for the tournament.

For more on the US Open, visit www.usopen.org.

On August 30, Union Square Park will be transformed by Sabra Hummus Co. for the second year in a row into a outdoor Mediterranean Café -- the final leg of an 11-city tour.

Colombe Jacobsen will be on hand cooking up fun recipes with New Yorkers and passing out thousands of free "Hummus Sundaes." As a preview to the event, Jacobson stopped by the studio to make a a Red Pepper Couli and Hummus Ravioli using an assortment of quick and easy tips that embrace healthy oils and exotic spices.

Jacobsen recently appeared on the Food Network in season 3 of The Next Food Network Star; she is best remembered for her creatively healthy approach to everyday meals. Named in 2007 as one of Shape Magazine's "Woman who Shape the World," Jacobsen also coordinates Harvest Time, a non-profit in Harlem that teaches children nutritious, yet practical cooking techniques and recipes.

For more information, visit www.sabra.com.

Click here to download the recipies for Red Pepper Couli and Hummus Ravioli.

You can transform your home from drab to fab without emptying your pockets. Interior designer and co-host of the PIX show Metro Residential Cathy Hobbs stops by to share five design ideas under $10. Her tips were:

• Use Colorful Scarves to Transform Throw Pillows
• Create Your own Masterpiece By Framing Wallpaper
• Use Shadow Boxes to Store Treasured Items
• Placing Fruit In Long Tall Vases Make Great Decorations
• Make Use of Natural Elements Like Rope and Wood Chips

Metro Residential airs Sundays at 9am on WPIX. For more information, visit www.wpix.com.

Actress Brooke Elliott stopped by to talk about her starring role in the new Lifetime series Drop Dead Diva.

The comedic drama centers on beautiful, but superficial model Deb, who dies in a car accident. But when faced with the pearly gates of Heaven, she convinces the gatekeeper to return her to her body. The only problem: she's returned to the wrong body. Deb becomes recently deceased lawyer Jane (Elliot). Now living her life as Jane, Deb is forced to come to terms with her new plus-sized body and change her self-centered ways.

Elliott is a Minnesota native who has had extensive voice training for nearly 20 years. She earned a BFA in musical theater performance from Wester Michigan University. Soon afterwards, she made her way to the Great White Way and appeared in "The Pirate Queen" and "Taboo." Elliott was also part of the national tour for "Wicked" and "Beauty and the Beast." her other acting credits include What Women Want, Liar's Club and Law & Order: Trial By Jury.

Drop Dead Diva airs Sundays at 9pm, with an encore presentation Mondays at 9pm on Lifetime. For more information, visit www.mylifetime.com.

Each week we're telling viewers about events, activities and items that are free. That's right! No money required.

This week's free list:

1. J&R Music is hosting the 2009 Downtown MusicFest. Free performances from various artists starting Friday, August 28 to Saturday, August 29 in Manhattan

2. Spoon City is giving away free frozen custards for the first 100 PIX viewers today, Friday, August 28 in Manhattan

Read the full story: "Texting While Driving Officially Illegal In NYS".

They've got the power to bring people together and at Harlem's Gospel Uptown, the fusion of the two offers an uplifting and inspirational experience. The restaurant's founder Joseph Holland and Executive Chef Kenneth Collins stopped by to share their recipe for Cajun Style Tuna.

Click here to download the recipe for Cajun-Style Tuna.

One of the inspiring featured acts at Gospel Uptown is the The Mark Howell Singers. We spoke to founder of the gospel choir Mark Howell and his group performed "Press Towards the Mark."

Gospel Uptown located on Seventh Avenue and 125th Street. For more information on Gospel Uptown, visit www.gospeluptown.com. For more information on The Mark Howell Singers, visit www.themarkhowellsingers.com.

This week's Friday Forecaster is Thuy Pham, the Assistant Dean of the New York Vietnamese School. For more on the language school, visit www.nyvietschool.org.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Miss Universe 2009 Stefania Fernandez of Venezuela stopped by the studio to talk about her big win and new title.

Miss Universe 2008, also from Venezuela, Dayana Mendoza passed down the crown to this 18-year-old last weekend at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas. Fernandez beat out fellow First Runner-Up Miss Dominican Republic Ada Aimee De La Cruz and Second Runner-Up Miss Kosovo Gona Dragusha.

Among other prizes, Fernandez won a New York City apartment for the year of her reign including living expenses and professional representation by the Miss Universe Organization to further her personal and professional goals and a two-year scholarship from the New York Film Academy worth more than $100,000 dollars to its acting or film-making programs.

For more on the Miss Universe competition, visit www.missuniverse.com.

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Times Square today announced that the internationally renowned "Cat Man" will be appearing as a curiosity in its odditiorium from now through September 7.

Cat Man has transformed every inch of his body to appear tiger-like; from filing his teeth, tattooing tiger strips on his skin, and undergoing nearly 20 facial surgeries, including whisker implants and pointed ears.

Cat Man's real name is Dennis Avner, a 50-year-old male computer programmer from Tonopah, Nevada. His transformation from human to tiger makes him the most modified human being in the world. Claiming to have the mind and soul of a tiger, Avner has spent uncalculated amounts of money altering his body and has devoted much of his life to his feline obsession, including eating raw meat and climbing trees.

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Times Square is located at 234 West 42nd Street and is open daily 9am to 1am. For more information, call (212) 398-3133 or call www.ripleysnewyork.com.

We're checking out multitasking tools to get fit at home without breaking the bank. The trainers have also supplied readers with the top multitasking tools and toning moves to give them everything they need to help feel and look like a million bucks. This complete kit will get you fit and toned for under $50.

Lindsey Emery, senior fitness editor for Fitness Magazine, stopped by to show us how we can get slim without the gym.

Included in the workout bundle ($44.50):
• Resistance Band: $5
• Stability Ball: $10
• A pair of five-pound dumbbells: $12.50
• Gliding Discs: $17

For more information, visit www.fitnessmagazine.com.

Actor Paul Wesley stopped by the studio to talk about his starring role as Stefan Salvatore in the new CW series Vampire Diaries.

Based on the popular book series of the same name by L.J. Smith, The Vampire Diaries is set in the small town of Mystic Falls, Virginia at the start of the new school year. The show centers on Elena, a 17-year-old high school student who has lost her parents in a fatal car accident. Ever the popular one, Elena struggles with grief as she tries to help herself and her younger brother Jeremy (Steven R. McQueen) move on with their lives.

Elena and her friends become fascinated with mysterious new kid Stefan (Wesley) who has recently enrolled in their high school. Trying to live among humans, Stefan, a centuries-old vampire, is immediately drawn to Elena. But trouble begins when Stefan's brother Damon (Ian Somerhalder), the embodiment of vampire violence and brutality, tracks him down.

The role as Stefan seems to be made for Wesley. Little known fact: Wesley naturally has fangs. Check out the picture after the jump to see his pearly whites.

This Jersey boy hails from New Brunswick and has starred in the four-part miniseries Fallen, based on the book series by Tom Sniegoski. Wesley's film credits include Killer Movie, Peaceful Warrior and Roll Bounce. His other TV credits include 24, Everwood, American Dreams, 8 Simple Rules, Law & Order: SVU, and Cold Case. Wesley currently resides in in Atlanta, Georgia, where The Vampire Diaries is shot, and Los Angeles, California.

The Vampire Diaries series premiere is Thursday, September 10 at 8pm. For more information, visit www.cwtv.com.

Read the full story: "New operator for Tavern on the Green".

Although everyone is watching their pennies these days, that's no excuse for showing up empty handed to a Labor Day soiree. The key is to put together a gift that is unique, fun, and personal - and that doesn't mean expensive! In fact all the gift ideas are all under $25! Rebecca Dolgin of TheNest.com stopped by to show us a few inexpensive gift ideas.

• BREAKFAST IN A BASKET
Since it's a holiday and the house is sure to be full, it's always a good idea to bring a gift that will make the host/ess' job easier - like a breakfast basket that keeps the him/her from having to cook the next morning! Check out this basket that we loaded with everything you need for the perfect breakfast - Starbuck's coffee, fresh muffins and scones, biscotti (which you could DIY or pick up at your local bakery!), and even a cute kitchen towel.
TOTAL - COFFEE - $11, PASTRIES/BASKET/DISH CLOTH - $10 - $21

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

1. For a week or so I've been experiencing shortness of breath and a fast heart beat. I don't smoke, drink or use drugs. I am under a fair amount of stress but I doubt that's what's causing this. Or could that be it? HELP!
Ania, Middletown, New York

2. After struggling with bulimia for 10 years, how could my body be suffering from the disorder?
Anonymous

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

Dancers Anya Garnis and Pasha Kovalev of So You Think You Can Dance fame stopped by the studio to talk about and perform excerpts from the Broadway feature "Burn The Floor."

"Burn The Floor" is all about a mix of Latin and ballroom dance with a sexy 21st century edge and features a cast of award-winning international dancers. Originally meant to only be a 12-week limited engagement, the show has extended its run into next year due to popularity.

"Burn The Floor" began as a special performance at Sir Elton John's 50th birthday celebration in 1997. "It takes audiences on a journey through the passionate drama of dance. The elegance of the Viennese Waltz, the exuberance of Jive, the intensity of the Paso Doble—audiences experience them all, as well as the Tango, Samba, Mambo, Quickstep and Swing," according to its website.

"Burn The Floor" is playing at the Longacre Theatre now through January 3, 2010. For tickets and show information, visit www.burnthefloor.com.