"The Current Events" is a newspaper made just for kids. Lisa Mateo talked with some fifth graders at Gould Elementary School in New Jersey to find out what they enjoy about the publication. Lisa also talked with the creator of the newspaper to find out how they tackle hard hitting issues like the Fort Hood masacre.

For more information, visit www.thecurrentevents.com.

In a time when home foreclosures are reaching record numbers, the housing market has become a bargain buyer's dream and with social media today, finding the right home doesn't have to be difficult.

Renee Fishman from Halstead Property was here to help us navigate through the process and find the best values in real estate.

• Tip 1: Understand what you can afford & get pre-approved for a loan
• Tip 2: Value is not limited to price: determine what elements are important to you
• Tip 3: Find a broker who understands what you value
• Tip 4: Seek trustworthy sources to follow online: twitter, blogs, websites
• Tip 5: Proceed with caution before relying on info from online: who is the source?

To learn more about Halstead's other properties, visit www.halstead.com.

When holiday shopping, you may find steep discounts on gifts, but you won't find any fat or calorie savings at the food court. Since food courts are slim pickings for healthy choices, your best bet may be to bring your own snacks and you'll have more to spend on presents! Patricia Bannan, a registered dietician, stopped by with some great healthy alternatives.

Bannan discussed alternatives to:

• Cinnabon Caramel Pecanbon
• Manchu Wok (orange chicken with fried rice and egg roll)
• Burger King large fries
• Au Bon Pain cranberry walnut muffin

For more on Bannan, visit www.patriciabannan.com.

So many gadgets and gizmos out there, so little time! How can you know which ones are really worth giving this holiday season? David Greg, senior editor of BehindTheBuy.com has sorted through the latest technology and is joining us with his must-have picks.

• Gateway One ZX Desktop PC, $749
• iHome IP88 Dual Clock Radio, $149
• XM Skydock, $119.99
• Tom Tom One 140S GPS, $99 - $150
• Kodak S730 Digital Frame, $140

For more information on these products, visit BehindTheBuy.com.

There’s a new Victoria’s Secret Angel in town and her name is Doutzen Kroes. She stopped by to tell us about participating in her first Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

The 23-year-old Kroes joins the likes of Heidi Klum and Adriana Lima, as well as past angels like Gisele Bundchen and Tyra Banks. Tonight's show will feature infused lingerie, musical performances, red carpet interviews, model profiles and a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the world's most celebrated fashion show.

Kroes said her career began when she scored a modeling contract after she sent her photos to an agency hoping to earn enough cash to buy more fashion magazines. Soon the 5′10" stunner was filling their pages.

Canadian comic, writer, director and producer Dave Foley stopped by to talk to us about two of his upcoming projects -- the indie film The Strip and ABC holiday animated special Prep & Landing.

The Strip is about, a typical day in the work life of five employees of the low-end electronics chain, Electri-City. Bound by the constraints of suburban life, the quarter-mile of the strip mall and tedium – they’re like everyone else, who dream of something more. As their stories interweave, egos clash and their tolerance is tested, the crew finds that friendships comes first and some dreams are not just not worth chasing.

Foley has also lent his voice to the starring character in Prep & Landing -- ABC's first television special produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. The half-hour holiday special reveals the never-before-told tale of an elite unit of elves.

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.

With the death of Kayne West's mother Donda, Usher's wife Tameka Ray and now former Miss Argentina Solange Magnano, how can you make sure that the facility performing plastic surgery is safe?

To help evaluate the quality and safety of outpatient surgical centers, find out if the facility is licensed by your state or accredited by a national accrediting body such as the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities, the Joint Commission (formerly the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. Any amount of outside vetting is better than none.

Also ask your doctor if he or she has hospital privileges at a nearby medical institution, which would allow the doctor to admit you to the hospital should complications arise.

The holidays are all about family and you can bring yours together with do-it-yourself decorations. Stephanie Prommer, lifestyle editor of Woman's World Magazine, was here with seasonal crafts that are fun for the whole family.

Peppermint Candy Topiary
- Glue candies onto styrofoam ball
- Tie ribbon into bows and glue to ball
- Ideal for table centerpiece

This morning, members of the award-winning choir The Young People’s Chorus of New York City stopped by to perform the "Dora the Explorer Christmas Theme" and "Deck The Halls."

Founded and directed by Francisco J. Núñez, the choir has commissioned pieces from many of today’s most prominent composers, and has won gold medals in choral competitions around the world, including two in the 2004 Choir Olympics in Bremen, Germany. This year, the choir will travel to Graz, Austria, for the Choir Olympics.

Annually, the YPC serves more than 1,000 young people from the New York City area through its core after-school program and its satellite program in eight New York City public schools YPC has recently recorded a special version of the Dora the Explorer Christmas theme song, which is featured on two new holiday releases -- Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure DVD and Dora's Christmas CD.

The feature-length Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure DVD and Dora's Christmas CD are available in stores and on iTunes. Dora's Christmas Carol Adventure also airs Sunday, December 6 at 8pm on Nickelodeon.

For more information on the Young People’s Chorus of New York City, visit http://www.ypc.org.

Written by Lateisha Clay

Larry is in Newport section of Jersey City for their tree lighting and grand reopening of Newport Skates, the community's seasonal outdoor ice skating rink. The rink will offer free skating on Wednesday, December 3 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Families can also enjoy free cookies and hot drinks.

Tonight at Hotel Pennsylvania a great event is taking place for fashion lovers. It's the ultimate sample sale! And here with a preview of the event is style steals expert and president of Sassy City Chicks Isela Blair. She showed us how to:

1. Dressing Up Denim - how to match your jeans with the perfect jewels! These can work with anything from a t-shirt or tank to to a silk top

2. Little Black Dress - how to add pops of color without taking away from the classic look of an LBD

Automotive Expert Doug Brauner will be live with an exclusive look at what automakers are doing to get back in the drivers seat LIVE from the Los Angeles Auto Show on at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

For mroe information, visit www.laautoshow.com.

From a professional wrestler turned actor turned Minnesota governor, Jesse Ventura stopped by the studio to talk about hosting his new series Conspiracy Theory.

Ventura takes you behind closed doors about global cover ups, mind control and secret societies. He joins a team of private investigators as they investigate some of the most controversial conspiracy theories. They talk to experts and eyewitnesses to learn about topics such as global warming, the possibility of the 9/11 cover-ups and prophecies.

"This is my personal journey," Ventura says on TruTV.com, "to prove that there is more to these stories than you know about."

Learn the truth as Conspiracy Theory premieres tonight on TruTv at 10pm.

Written by Rocco DiMase

Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton stopped by to expose more then just his crazy hairstyle. He came to the studio to talk about the release of his new book Perez Hilton's True Bloggywood Stories.

Full of more gossip than Gossip Girl, Perez Hilton keeps fans up-to-date on their favorite celebrities, from Britney to Brad and Angelina.

Perez Hilton's True Bloggywood Stories: The Glamorous Life of Beating, Cheating, and Overdosing is available in bookstores now. You can meet him in person and take pictures with him at the Borders in Columbus Circle tomorrow evening at 7pm for a book signing.

And if you can't make it to the book signing, no worries! Perez will sign your book if you mail it to him at 8174 Sunset Blvd., Number 993, Los Angeles, CA 90046.

For more on Perez Hilton, visit perezhilton.com.

Written by Rocco DiMase

Sponsored by:

Read the full story: "Woods' $164 Fine Settles Legal Issues, But Not Media Scrutiny ".

The PIX Kitchen is going country in honor of country singer, chef and star of Cowboy Kitchen Cooper Boone! He stopped by to show us how to make Jingle Balls (see the recipe after the jump).

You can catch Boone and composer Angela Kaset in "A Country Christmas" at Joe's Pub this Sunday, December 6.

After meeting last year in Nashville while collaborating on Boone's new album, Angela Kaset and Boone became fast friends. What better thing to do then do a Country Christmas show in New York City together? Boone has played twice this past year at Joe's Pub to sold out audiences.

For more information, visit www.joespub.com.

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

1. When my daughter was born, she had a full head of straight hair. Now, at 10 months, her hair is nappy and some has fallen out. What should I do or use to make her hair grow?
Kelita

2. I am a 47-year-old female and mother of five. I would like to know, why don't I sweat when I exercise?
Vanessa, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies

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

Fans will remember Hannigan from the hit show Buffy, and her priceless band camp stories from American Pie. Now the a star on the CBS smash hit How I Met Your Mother Alyson Hannigan stopped by live to talk about the new season, and her new online tool for that "Priceless Gift" by MasterCard.

Teaming up with NFL star Peyton Manning, MasterCard and Amazon, Hannigan showed us the unique way you can find that perfect priceless gift for that special someone. The MasterCard website breaks it down to five easy steps to suggest that perfect gift. You can even also utilize your Facebook account.

First you have to select your budget to get started. Then following you will be asked for your own name and then the recipients name. Once you have plugged the name you are asked 5 basic questions. The first question is gender of the person, followed by age. Then to follow you are asked about your relationship, then price range. Finally, you are then asked to to describe that person under a category pre-picked by MasterCard.

For more information or to try it your yourself be sure to log onto the MasterCard website

You can also catch Hannigan on Monday nights on How I Met Your Mother at 8pm on CBS.

Written by Rocco DiMase

On December 3, a group of America's top Major League Eaters will gather at City Crab & Seafood Company in New York City in pursuit of victory at The Slammin' Salmon World Seafood-Eating Contest to kick off the new Broken Lizard movie, The Slammin' Salmon, which will open in theatres on Friday, December 11, 2009.

The professional eaters, including number-three-ranked Bob Shoudt and number-four-ranked Tim Janus (Eater X) will compete for the $2,500 cash purse in the six-minute, all-you-can-eat seafood chowder-eating competition. This is the first time Major League Eaters will consume chowder in competition and it is anticipated that they will consume well more than a gallon in the allotted time.

Members of the Broken Lizard cast will be on hand for the event, and amateur competitors will be chosen to compete alongside the professionals. The Slammin' Salmon, whose subtitle is "Get Your Bib, it's Gonna Get Messy," is directed by Kevin Heffernan and distributed by Anchor Bay Films. It is the latest movie by Broken Lizard (Supertroopers, Beerfest).

For more information, visit www.citycrabnyc.com.

Your nieces and nephews may not be your kids, but you love them like they are! And unlike their parents, you get to spoil them rotten! This holiday season you can keep your "cool aunt status" by getting them the coolest toys. Melanie Notkin, founder of SavvyAuntie.com, was here with some suggestions.

• Liv Dolls, $19.99
• Harumika, $9.99 to $29.99
• Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Roleplay Helmet, $39.99
• Kota and Pals Triceratops, $14.99
• Zhu Zhu Pets, $9.99 to $21.99

For more on these toys and details on how you can win the Zhu Zhu Pets, visit SavvyAuntie.com.

On the field, these ladies cheer on fans from the beginning of the game until the time runs out on the clock and they do it with real Jets spirit. Linda Walsh from the Jets Flight Crew stoped by to talk to us about being on the cover of the new Jets Flight Crew 2010 Swimsuit Calendar.

She also talked about the New York Sports Club Jets Flight Crew Workout, which is free and open to the public. The next classes are on:

• Thursday, December 03 at 8 pm (West 14th Street, NYSC)
• Thursday, December 10 at 8 pm (East 91st Street, NYSC)
• Monday, December 14 at 5:15 pm (East 86th Street, NYSC)
• Thursday, December 17 at 5:45 pm (49th & Broadway, NYSC)

Be sure to catch the game right here on WPIX as the Jets take on the Bills. Game time is at 8pm and the pre-game show starts at 7:30pm.

The star of the new TNT series Men Of A Certain Age, actor Andre Braugher stopped by today to talk about his role as Owen and co-starring alongside Ray Romano and Scott Bakula.

"Men Of A Certain Age explores the unique bonds of male friendship among three men experiencing the changes and challenges of mid-life. They have been best friends since college but now, in their 40s, are navigating through the second act of their lives.

"Joe (Romano) is a friendly, slightly neurotic, recently separated father of two who had dreams of being a professional golfer. Now he owns and runs a party store. Terry (Bakula) is a laid-back, handsome actor who seems to breeze through life (and women). Lately, he’s spending more time working as a temp than as an actor. And Owen (Braugher) is an overstressed husband and father of three who endures constant criticism from his father, for whom he works as a car salesman," says TNT of the show.

Sponsored by:

Read the full story: "Tiger Woods apologizes to supporters in latest turn of his off-course saga".

Actor Michael Clarke Duncan topped by the studio to talk about his new comedic film Broken Lizard's The Slammin' Salmon.

The Slammin’ Salmon centers on a restaurant whose former heavyweight champion owner, Cleon "Slammin''" Salmon (Duncan) sets his waitstaff against each other in a competition to see who can win the most tips, with the winner taking home a cash prize and the lowest earner winning a beatdown from the champ.

Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Duncan is best known for his breakout role as John Coffey in The Green Mile , which he was nominated for an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. Duncan also gained attention when he appeared as one of a group of oil drillers sent to stop an asteroid from annihilating the Earth in the 1998 blockbuster Armageddon.

The Slammin’ Salmon hits theatres on Friday, December 11. For more information, visit www.brokenlizard.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay

Best known for her role in Curb Your Enthusiasm, actress Cheryl Hines talked to us about her directorial debut in Serious Moonlight, a romantic dramedy written by the late Adrienne Shelly (she directed Hines in the critically acclaimed Waitress).

The film centers on a high-powered attorney (Meg Ryan) who duct tapes her adulterous husband (Timothy Hutton) to the toilet, right before their home is invaded by burglars. The original screenplay writer of the project was Adrienne Shelly (she directed Hines in the critically acclaimed Waitress), who was murdered in New York and her widower Andy Ostroy produced the film on her behalf.

In a recent interview Hines said, "I feel a great sense of pride to be directing this film, I had such respect for Adrienne and the work she did. And I love her writing so much. That tone is really in my wheelhouse."

PIX's Thalia Patillo talked to judges and contestants for a preview of the 13th annual Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper Contest, which is hosted at Rockefeller Center in front of Cucina & Co.

She spoke to local contestant Shauletta Baptise, who will be defending the title of Scotch Brand Most Gifted Wrapper for New York City, and last year's winner, Alton DuLaney from New York City.

For more information, visit www.scotchbrand.com.

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. Stingray and the Jailhouse Rockers are performing live tonight in Long Island from 9pm-1am at Plattdueche Park Restaurant
2. Marfa Bites Restaurant is offering 3 free appetizers for a week, NYC

How many shoes are in your closet? Shoe retailer Love My Shoes is searching for the Shoe Princess of New York City -- the person who has the most shoes in their closet.

Robert Yeganah from Love My Shoes stopped by to talk about the competition and to show off some of the latest footwear.

For more about Love My Shoes and their Shoe Princess of New York City contest, visit www.lovemyshoes.com.

Afar Magazine's co-founder Joe Diaz stopped by to tell us about five trips that could inspire a new career. These trips provide hands-on experience in different jobs around the globe so you can decide if it's the right career for you. At the same time, you'll get to know another culture and work side by side with the local people.

1. Afar suggests a trip with the Tethys Research Institute program in Greece.
• The non-profit organization has been studying whales and dolphins for more than 20 years. You'll work in the Grecian Gulf of Corinth identify threats to the area's short-beaked common dolphins and offer scientific support to conservation efforts.
• The skills you'll learn include how to gather data about dolphin behavior and ecology; how to track individual animals by photographing their dorsal fins; how to raise awareness in the community and work with local fishermen to protect the dolphins.
• Plus there is always relaxing in a taverna in the village of Galaxidi, where the program is based and visiting nearby ancient Grecian ruins.
• The cost is $831 for a one-week trip
• Go to tethys.org to learn more.

Stylist Nicole Young shows how to wear three of this season's hottest dress styles for both day and night. She showcased the layering pieces, jewelry and accessories that will give your favorite dresses a split personality. Some examples were:

Dress Style: Simple Black Sheath by French Connection (Available at frenchconnection.us)
Day Look
-Vintage blouse
-Spiegel Silk/cashmere cardigan (Available at spiegel.com)
-Endless.com boots Tall black boots (Available at endless.com)
-Spiegel stretch leopard belt (Available at spiegel.com)
-CC Skye gold studded cuff (Available at ccskye.com)

Evening Look
-Lia Sophia bib necklace (available at liasophia.com)
-Lia sophia cuff (available at liasophia.com)
-Fredericks of Hollywood beaded stilettos (available at fredericks.com)
-Vintage clutch

Larry is playing Santa for the day. He will rappell 22 stories from the historic Landmark Building in Stamford in anticipation of Santa's arrival there this weekend.

Actress/singer Kristin Chenoweth stopped by to tell us about her upcoming holiday movie 12 Men of Christmas, her current off Broadway performance in "Love, Loss, and What I Wore," and her opening performance for Il Divo.

Kristin plays a New York publicist E.J. Baxter, a woman who goes from being engaged to a Manhattan lawyer to losing both her job and fiance on the same night of her office Christmas party. This big city girl then decides to take a new job and move to the opposite end of the United States to a town called Kalispell, Montana. There she tries to help the local search and rescue team raise some much needed funds. Through it all, E.J. finds the warmth of the country and discovers what really matters to her as she takes on a new life, in her new home.

You can catch 12 Men of Christmas on December 5th at 9pm on Lifetime.

Her new Christmas album "A Lovely Way to Spend Christmas" is available in stores now. Chenoweth is also performing in the off-Broadway play "Love, Loss, and What I Wore" and will be returning to Broadway in "Promises Promises" with Sean Hayes in spring 2010. She will also be opening for Il Divo in New York City on December 15 to 17 and in Boston on December 18.

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

1. I'm 14-years-old. My grandmother died in 2001 of breast cancer. My mother has had several tests and and does not have the disease. But, how old should I be to get a mammogram? Lindsay, Connecticut

2. Does a fatty tumor need surgery? It's on my shoulder.
Linda, Jersey City

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

Mr. Chow Restaurant celebrates 30 years on New York's 57th Street with a champagne celebration through December 15th.

The Manhattan staple, known for its exceptional cuisine and high-profile celebrity, art and fashion crowd, will show their appreciation to their devoted clients by presenting a complimentary bottle of Laurent Perrier Rosé champagne to each table.

For more on Mr. Chow Restaurant, visit www.mrchow.com.

This week's Friday Forecaster is Sarah Consiglio, a student at Sloatsburg High School.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Fondly remembered as Marie Barone from the hit comedy series Everybody Loves Raymond, actress Doris Roberts stopped by our studio to talk about her new role in the Hallmark holiday film Debbie Macomber's Mrs. Miracle.

Roberts plays housekeeper Mrs. Emily Merckle who is set to help change the lives of the Webster family. With the holidays nearly approaching its been near impossible to find help, until Mrs. Emily Merckle rings the doorbell of the Webster home. Her role in " Mrs. Miracle" is sure to bring the warm family holiday spirit to your home. Roberts' co-stars include James Van Der Beek and Erin Karpluck. The film is based on a book of the same name.

Since her role on Everybody Loves Raymond, Robert has had roles in movies like Grandma's Boy and Aliens in the Attic.

Mrs. Miracle is part of the Hallmark Channel's Holiday Countdown and you can catch the movie when it premieres on Saturday December 5 at 8pm.

We've got our own comic book heros right here in New York -- the Knicks City Dancers!

The Knicks dance team unveiled its first ever comic book, "Keeping the Rhythm of New York" last night at Madison Square Garden. The squad in its 19th season, has branded its "super hero" costume to represent the empowered and classy "super women" of New York. Each dancer is profiled in the comic book to give their fans an up-close look at their favorite dancer, while providing them with an exclusive collectable item.

Throughout the season, the dancers appear at all home games and serve as team representatives at numerous community events.

For more information on Knicks City Dancers and their comic book, visit www.nyknickscitydancers.com.

Just in time for Hanukah, the first-ever Latke-Palooza is taking place featuring four notable New York City chefs. This latke competition is open to the public to attend and then they can vote for the best Latke.

Chef Jack Kiggins from the Plaza Hotel's Grand Ballroom is one of the chefs participating. Recipes will be judged based on taste, presentation and authenticity.

Tickets cost $25 and are available for purchase online at www.greatperformances.com/store. All proceeds benefit the Sylvia Center, which is a non-profit program that helps fight childhood obesity by teaching children about cooking and growing fresh food.

This holiday season, it's easier than ever to keep your hips in line, while enjoying the festivities. Spirits companies are providing wiser drinking options with cocktails loaded with all-natural ingredients and have one third the calories of traditional alcohol.

Tara Fougner from Ty Ku Wine & Spirits was here to show us how to make two super cool cocktails: Menorah Mojito and Gingerbread Man

For these recipes and other great low calorie cocktails, visit www.trytyku.com.

Comedian Chuck Nice stopped by to give us his year in review and talk about his VH1 Special Chuck Nice: 2009 That Really Happened!?!.

The show features a cast of celebs and comedians, who weigh in on the year that involved pop culture/feuds (Perez Hilton vs. Will.i.am), embarrassing moments (Kanye West takes on Taylor Swift at the MTV Music Awards), music wonders (Susan Boyle) and train wreck stories (Octo-Mom/Kate and John Gosselin).

Chuck Nice: 2009 That Really Happened premieres on Tuesday, December 8 at 9pmon VH1. For more information, visit www.vh1.com.

The holiday season brings added stress into our lives -- between shopping for gifts, preparing food and getting your house ready for relative visits. This year, ditch the Holiday stress with easy yoga poses that you can do anywhere. Whether your waiting on line at a store, or cooking food in your kitchen, these easy poses can bring instant calm to your life and help relieve built up tension in your muscles. Paula Lynch of Yoga Works was here to show us how.

• Focus Exhalation Breathing Exercise - Focus on your exhalation, making your exhale longer than your inhale. This begins to calm the nervous system. Breathe naturally and concentrate on elongating your exhale. This can be done anywhere. Benefits: Instantly calms nerves, relaxes your body and muscles (Standing pose)

• Interlocking Shoulder Stretch - Interlace hands behind back, straighten arms and stretch arms away from torso. Benefits: Stretches shoulders, opens chest, enables deeper breathing (Standing Pose)

Original member of Monty Python and acclaimed director Terry Gilliam was here to talk about his latest film The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus.

The film "is a fantastical morality tale, set in the present day. It tells the story of Dr Parnassus and his extraordinary 'Imaginarium', a travelling show where members of the audience get an irresistible opportunity to choose between light and joy or darkness and gloom. Blessed with the extraordinary gift of guiding the imaginations of others, Dr Parnassus is cursed with a dark secret. Long ago he made a bet with the devil, Mr Nick, in which he won immortality. Many centuries later, on meeting his one true love, Dr Parnassus made another deal with the devil, trading his immortality for youth, on condition that when his first-born reached its 16th birthday he or she would become the property of Mr Nick.

WATCH THE 'SNL' VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

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

1. When I'm sitting or laying down I get dizzy. But, when I stand up the dizziness goes away. Is this from not drinking enough water?
Frank, Brooklyn

2. I have skin tags around my eyes, neck, shoulders and under my arms. What causes these, and is there something I can do to prevent them?
Ben

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

Yuri Foreman starting boxing at 7-years-old and 20 years later, he's proven to be a real contender in the ring. Three weeks ago, this prize fighter took on Daniel Santos, and walked away with the WBA Junior Middle Weight title.

Foreman has come so far that there's even talk of him fighting Manny Pacquiao in March 2010. He spoke to us about what he thinks about possibly fighting one of the biggest names in boxing, how he felt when he first got the news, and who else he'd like to take on in the ring.

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum is currently in the Philippines meeting with Pacquiao to discuss terms of a proposed world title fight with unbeaten Floyd Mayweather Jr. this spring. But even before Arum's plane landed, the Pacquiao camp was already pushing an alternative matchup with newly minted WBA junior middleweight champion Yuri Foreman.

Foreman is also studying to become a rabbi and had a part in the April 2009 movie Fighting, starring Channing Tatum.

For more on Foreman and his upcoming fights, visit www.yuriforeman.com.

Actor Dean McDermott stopped by the studio to talk about his role in the new ABC Family holiday film Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe.

Part of ABC Family's 25 Days of Christmas, Santa Baby 2 centers on Mary Class, Santa's daughter. When Santa decides to give Mary control of the "family business," Mary is force to choose if she really wants the gig or remain living her big city life. McDermott's co-stars include Jenny McCarthy and Paul Sorvino.

You can catch McDermott and his wife Tori Spelling in their hit Oxygen Network reality series Tori and Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood when it returns in Spring 2010.

Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe premieres on Sunday, December 13 at 8pm on ABC Family.

Lisa Mateo takes a backstage tour of the Tony Award nominated musical "Irving Berlin's White Christmas." It is currently playing at Broadway's Marquis Theatre (1535 Broadway) this holiday season throught January 3rd - guaranteeing New York another white Christmas!

The musical tells the story of two showbiz buddies who put on a show in a picturesque Vermont inn, and find their perfect mates in the bargain. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, "Irving Berlin's White Christmas" is a merry and bright theatrical experience for the entire family.

TICKET INFORMATION:
Tickets prices are $66.50, $91.50 and $121.50 (including $1.50 facility fee), and available by calling Ticketmaster at 212-307-4100 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

For group sales details and pricing call The Group Sales Box Office at 800-223-7565 or visit www.bestofbroadway.com.

The holidays are upon us and if you're struggling to find the right gift for the man in your life -- whether it be your husband, boyfriend, brother or son -- worry no more. Adam Rich, co-founder of Thrillist.com is here to help guide you with some of the coolest gifts for guys at every price this season. Rich recommended:

• Cocoon Innovations, $34.99
• Eskuche Headphones, $58.00
• That's My Face, $99.00
• AC/DC Box Set, $199.99

For more on these products, visit Thrillist.com.

In the spirit of giving and the season, Larry will join John Franco from Cod Fuel as they give away free heating oil at a local bagel store North Babylon Bagels on Deer Park Ave. Why are they at a bagel store, you ask? Because they're giving away free breakfast as well!

For more on Cod Fuel, visit www.codfuel.com.

With the holidays just days away, many people are trying to figure out what to get for their friends and family. But you may want to think twice before giving pets as a holiday gift. Elena Gretch, pet expert and founder of It’s a Dog’s Life New York joined us with some tips:

• For children: parents are responsible for care
• For adults: they have to have enough time in their lifestyle to properly care for the pet.
• Ask the host before bringing your pet to holiday parties; Supervise your pet by keeping on a leash
• The best places to get pets are shelters, rescue organizations and responsible breeders
• Don't buy pets from puppy mills.

For more pet tips for the holidays and information about It’s a Dog’s Life New York, visit www.itsadogslifeny.com.

Today is National Brownie Day and Greyston Bakery, the makers of Do Goodie brownies, will donate all profits to community-based programs like job training, healthcare, affordable housing and childcare. Many of the beneficiaries of these programs work in the bakery.

As part of its annual National Brownie Day celebration, Greyston Bakery presents top ten brownie facts to sweeten your day.

1. The first brownie, like other culinary mishaps (the sandwich, pizza, potato chip) was a mistake. The baker didn't have baking powder and ended up with an unleavened fudgy treat.

2. Arguably the first brownie recipe was found in the Sears, Roebuck Catalogue in 1800's. Sear's last general merchandise catalogue ceased publication in 1993.

Chelsea Lately star actress/comedienne Heather McDonald stopped by the studio to talk about the show and teaming up with MasterCard for the holiday gift-giving season.

For more on MasterCard Priceless Gift Finder, visit http://holiday.priceless.com/giftfinder.

Chelsea Lately airs weekdays at 11pm on E!. For more information, visit www.eonline.com.

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.

Actor Joel David Moore stopped by the studio to talk about his role as Norm Spellman in the new film from director James Cameron -- Avatar.

Avatar centers on a paraplegic ex-marine war veteran who’s sent to establish a human settlement on the distant planet of Pandora, only to find himself battling humankind alongside the planet's indigenous Na'vi race. Moore's co-stars include Sigourney Weaver, Sam Worthington and Michelle Rodriguez.

Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, Moore began his acting career in commercials. Later, he switched to TV shows (including CSI, Six Feet Under, Boston Public, House, and most recently as a graduate student on Bones) and films (including Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, Hatchet and Grandma's Boy). Moore was also featured in the music video for Katy Perry's hit "Waking Up in Vegas."

Avatar his theaters on December 18. For more information, visit www.avatarmovie.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay.

Read the full story: "Chimp Owner Not Expected To Be Charged In Mauling".

This holiday season, dress for less! At TJ Maxx and Marshall's you can find department store clothing at discount prices that are the season's hottest trends for up to 60% off! Fashion expert Lawrence Zarian was here with stylish savings:

• Pair cropped jacket with sequins
• Pair boyfriend jacket with leggings and booties
• Jewel tones are a hot trend this season
• Leather motorcycle jackets are key trend
• Pair classic black dress with a lot of jewelry

All of these clothes are available at TJ Maxx (www.tjmaxx.com) and Marshall's (www.marshallsonline.com). A special thanks to the Glam Squad at Louis Licari for getting our girls party perfect!

Kym Johnson, a former professional ballroom dancer, model and two-time Dancing with the Stars winner stopped by this morning to talk to us about her new Broadway appearance in "Burn the Floor."

Burn the Floor is full of color and energy it’s a Latin and ballroom dance spectacular. It’s a sparkling display of Ballroom and Latin dancing at Sir Elton John’s 50th birthday celebration at the Hammersmith Palais Ballroom, London in 1997.

The producer of the play Harely Medcalf stated that “the dancers provided the real motivation, their good nature, openness and sheer talent combined with a burning passion and love of dance” in the play. Since its opening in August its quickly broke the theatre’s box office record and announced an extension to 2010, and Kym Johnson has joined the company now through January 10.

Newest Victoria's Secret Angel Kylie Bisutti takes our Lisa Mateo on a lingerie shopping spree. Plus, as the winner of this year's model search, she gives Lisa tips on posing and walking the catwalk like a true VS Angel.

The encore presentation of Victoria's Secret Fashion Show airs tonight at 9pm on WPIX.

For more information, visit www.victoriassecret.com or www.vsallaccess.com.

Alone for the holidays? One website wants to help you change that. Now you can buy your friends!

Social media traders usocial.net have been selling fans and friends on Facebook for some time now. They claim their site can definetly be used for the holiday-forlorn this season.

And maybe they're right. They've raked in tens of thousands of dollars since their Facebook service became operational and the business is steadily rising as we get closer to Christmas. Friends can be purchased in packages starting at a $1,000.

You can check it out at usocial.net.

Tech Expert and author of Gadget Nation Steve Greenberg stopped by with holiday tech gifts. They included:

KangooJumps, www.kangoojumps.com, $250
I'll bounce in wearing these exercise boots--easy on the knees and works your core muscles and cardio

3M M-PRO 120 Mini-projector, www.3mmpro.com, $350
Take the videos on your iPod or from DVD player and show them on a wall/screen this video projector fits in the palm of your hand but is packed with power

Keep it under 50 bucks. We're sticking to a holiday shopping budget. Danielle DeMarne from Modelinia and supermodel Selita Ebanks were here with a few gift ideas for everyone on your list.

For Women
- Beautiful Bling Watch ($49.90) by Curations
- 40's Faux Fur Scarves ($39) by Curations
- Leather Gloves with Faux Trim ($49.90) by Curations
- Metal Mesh Clutch ($49) by Express
- Beaded Clutch ($44.50) by Express

From Modelinia
- Jewelry (all under $50) Grayce by Molly Sims
- Elle Make Better DVD starring Brooklyn Decker ($19.95)

When shopping this holiday season, there is no reason to break the bank. The
Trick is to give your family and friends something unexpected and ultra personalized, and it doesn't have to be expensive! Sharon Stimpfle, deputy editor of TheNest.com, was here with gift ideas under $30.

FOR THE HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTESS
When heading to a holiday party we say skip the boring bottle of wine and instead give a gift of RELAXATION for the busy hostess. And there is no better way than with this "Recipe Box" from philosophy.com. The box includes 2 bottles of fresh baked apple pie and spicy pumpkin muffin shower gel that is also a shampoo AND bubble bath! It even includes REAL recipe cards, so she can make these delicious treats at home. But the best part? The cute packaging, so no need to wrap! At under $20, we say pick up a few for all of your holiday parties.
- Philosophy.com - $18

Kim and Khloe Kardashian stopped by to talk about the new season of their hit reality show Keeping Up With The Kardashians, which premieres this Sunday and achieving their weightloss goals with the GNC product QuickTrim.

Keeping Up With The Kardashians follows a tempest of siblings, business and fame engulf Olympic decathlete Bruce Jenner and paparazzi fave Kim Kardashian as their huge Hollywood families collide.

QuickTrim® has four different product lines, each designed with a specific purpose; QuickTrim® Burn & Cleanse™, QuickTrim® Extreme Burn™, QuickTrim® Fast Cleanse™ and QuickTrim® Celluslim™.

Khloe has successfully incorporated QuickTrim® into her food and fitness routine shedding more than 25 lbs prior for her September wedding to Lamar Odom.

Kim has effectively integrated QuickTrim® into her healthy lifestyle, announcing that she’s reached her personal weight goal as a result of using QuickTrim.

For more on QuickTrim, visit www.gnc.com.

The new season of Keeping Up With The Kardashians premieres on Sunday, December 13 at 10pm on E!. For more information, visit www.eonline.com.

You can give without emptying your savings account. Woman's Day beauty editor Melissa Matthews was here with a few incredible gifts and stocking stuffers for five bucks or less. Today's featured items included:

- Pier 1 Imports Merry Vanilla Bubble Bath
- e.l.f. Get the Look: Bold Black Kit for a smoky eye
- Mode Nail Enamel in shade #129 (opalescent teal) & Rimmel London 60 seconds nail polish in 660 Climax
- Pacifica Natural Soap in Mediterranean Fig, Avalon Juniper, Spanish Amber
- Earth Therapeutics Exfoliating Gloves (for adults) & Tiny Tilla bath mitts (for kids)
- Target Martini Kit, $5
- Container Store toothbrush holder
- Container Store pencils set
- Great Gifts from Old Navy: Old Navy snowflake coasters, Old Navy mugs and Old Navy luggage tags

For more information, visit www.womansday.com.

Star of the hit Showtime series Weeds, actor Hunter Parrish, stopped by to talk about his role as Luke in the new comedic film It's Complicated, in which he stars opposite Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin. Parrish also spoke about how it feels to be selected as one of People Magazine's Sexiest Men Alive.

It’s Complicated centers on Jane (Streep), a mother of three grown kids, who after a decade of divorce, has an amicable relationship with her ex-husband Jake (Baldwin). But when Jane and Jake share an innocent meal together, things turn into the unimaginable—an affair.

With Jake remarried to the much younger Agness (Lake Bell), Jane is now, of all things, the other woman. Caught in the middle of their renewed romance is Adam (Martin), an architect hired to remodel Jane’s kitchen. Healing from a divorce of his own, Adam starts to fall for Jane, but soon realizes he’s become part of a love triangle.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! As we prepare to make gingerbread pups, pooch-angels and say “Feliz Navi-dog,” remember that the holidays can bring some new dangers for your canine companions. With these six helpful tips, your playful pooches can enjoy the festive season, too! Wendy Diamond from Animal Fair Magazine was here to explain.

She was also joined by dog Snoopy, who is up for adoption from the Humane Society of New York (306 East 59th Street, New York, NY).

1. Step Away From the Dinner Table!
One of the best things about the holidays is the yummy food. We may be tempted to let Fido have a little turkey or nibble on some mashed potatoes, but these treats can be as deadly as they are delicious. Turkey bones can splinter and tear your pup’s stomach, while the fat from the turkey can also be “ruff” on the pancreas. Anything that contains a lot of oil and fat can be a holiday nightmare for your little friend, so stay away from those latkes this Hanukah!

Got a great business idea? You can turn your dream into a reality by first getting over your fears. Jen Groover, author of the forthcoming What If? And Why Not?, was here with the steps you need to take to become an entrepreneur.

• Have More Fear of Regret than Failure - We're conditioned in our society to be fearful of failure. Fear is a natural instinct, however if you can condition yourself to fear regret more it gives you more courage to take risks.

• Be OK with Being Uncomfortable - Anytime you start something new the unknowns are what bring on the fears but if you can embrace being uncomfortable it allows you to grow and move towards your fullest potential more rapidly.

There are a multitude of varieties of funny-looking squash to choose from. All of which are delicious and have great health benefits. Women's Health Magazine put together a list of this season's tastiest picks.

Keri Glassman, author of the book The O2 Diet: The Cutting Edge Antioxidant-Based Program That Will Make You Healthy, Thin, and Beautiful was here to tell us how to enjoy them. She went over these seven varieties: Acorn, Spaghetti, Butternut, Sweet Dumpling, Buttercup, Delicata and Hubbard.

For a full guide to cooking up squash this season, pick up the latest issue of Women's Health Magazine or visit www.womenshealthmag.com.

Do you find yourself scrambling for a hostess gift hours before heading to a holiday party? If that's you, Sascha de Gersdorff from Women's Health has some great gift ideas for the host that you can purchase now and have on hand for when you head to your next shindig. He recommended:

- Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvée champagne, $10
- Kuhn Rikon Switzerland nonstick paring knife, $10
- Red Flower Organic room diffuser, $74
- Balinese fair-trade napkins, $17.50 for 4

Ichendorf double-walled oil/vinegar carafe, $22 to $26.50 each
• Elevates salad dressing to artful new heights.
• These carafes are hand blown to the highest standard of Italian glass-making
• You can get this conversation piece for $22 to $26.50 each
• Available at aplusrstore.com

Actor/comedian Bill Bellamy stopped by to talk to us about his upcomong performance at Caroline's and the finale of his show Who's Got Jokes.

In this season's Who's Got Jokes, Bellamy and his comedic cohorts have brought up-and-coming comedians from all around the country and put them in the middle of showgirls, bright lights and superstars in Las Vegas.

The fourth season finale of Who's Got Jokes airs on Saturday, December 13 at 10pm on TV One. For more informtion, visit www.tvoneonline.com.

You can catch Bellamy at Caroline's this weekend from December 10 to December 13. 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. For more on Bellamy and his comedy tour, visit www.billbellamy.com.

Housewife Lynn Curtin joined us today to talk about the season of The Real Housewives of Orange County.

Southern California born and bred Curtin, 51, joined the show during the middle of last season. She’s a wife and a mother of two teenage girls. During the show you’ll see her developing her new jewelry line and becoming an entrepreneur.

While her husband's construction company seemed to be tanking due to the poor economy, they appear to having trouble paying rent and have to downsize. But you’ll see that doesn’t stop her from getting facelifts, and buying her out-of-control teens $1,200 designer bags and nose jobs. This season, Curtin finds a more aggressive voice when dealing with the other Housewives and strikes up a close friendship with Tamra Barney.

You can catch The Real Housewives of Orange County Thursdays at 10pm. For more information, visit www.Bravotv.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay.

Actress Tara Reid stopped by to talk about pictorial in Playboy January/February double issue, which hits newsstands December 18.

In the new Playboy issue, Reid is letting it all hang out. In the past, she has said that she would never pose for Playboy and in several interview and news reports Reid claims she had botched breast implant and liposuction procedures that left her embarrassed to show her body in public. Let’s just say she’s a little more comfortable and celebrating her body these days.

The 33-year-old New Jersey native began her career at nine years old on a game show called Child's Play, and appeared in over 100 commercials including Jell-O, McDonalds and Crayola. As a teenager, she was on Saved By The Bell and All My Children. She is, perhaps, best known for her roles in The Big Lebowski, Urban Legend and American Pie.

Reid has also teamed up with clothing designer Ed Hardy and Christian Audigier for her own fashion line called Mantra, which debuted in high end department stores earlier this year. For more information visit http://www.tara-reid.biz/ and info@mantrabytara.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay

There's really nothing funny about making a scene at your office holiday party. Christine Cunningham, a coach from The Handel Group, was here with a few tips to help us celebrate the season without embarassing ourselves and others. The Handel Group is an intenational private and corporate coaching firm. Cunningham recommends:

• Limit alcohol intake
• Gossiping is inappropriate
• Avoid depressing topics

For more information on The Handel Group, visit www.handelgroup.com.

With just a few weeks left until Christmas, Yahoo! Shopping, the No. 1 shopping website, has released its list of the most popular products of 2009 and the best gift ideas for under $25.

What do the top products have in common this year? All of them are technology products! The most popular products of 2009, based on user activity and interest on Yahoo! Shopping are:

• Apple iPhone
• Nintendo Wii
• Sony PSP
• Apple iPod Touch
• Sony PlayStation 3
• Wii Fit
• Microsoft Xbox 360
• Nintendo DS
• Apple iPod Nano
• Nikon D90

Click here to view the list here. :

Don't let the economy dampen your holiday spirit. You can still throw a rocking party, even on a tight budget. Entertaining expert Mary Giuliani was here with tips on how to do just that. She suggested:

• Serve an all white and red bar
• Serve dessert instead of dinner
• Potluck style is the way to go
• Set up a "giving tree" for favors
• Play DJ for the day

For more entertaining tips from Guiliani, visit marygiuliani.com.

Although the economy is recovering, consumers may still feel pressured to tip like it's the boom times. Smart Money Magazine offers a comprehensive tipping guide to cover everyone on your list, plus ideas for what to give them - anything from cold hard cash to chocolate chip cookies. Kelli Grant from the magazine had these tips:

Do tip.
Holiday tips are meant to acknowledge the people who helped you throughout the year. You shouldn't go into debt tipping everyone, but unless your circumstances are dire, it's pretty stingy to not tip at all. If you're cutting back on expenses this year, plan to be creative about who you give to and how much.

Crunch your holiday budget
Ideally, you factored in tips when you were planning out the rest of your holiday spending. If not, don't guess. Figure out how much money you have left in your budget, and which expenses you still have to take care of. That will give you an idea of how generous you can be.

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. Take advantage of free ice skating this weekend (today through Sunday from 12:30-2pm) and a chance to win a diamond pendant a day, Rockefeller Center Ice Rink, NYC

2. In honor of the Jewish Holiday, Hanukkah, "Ben's Best Deli Restaurant and Caterers" is giving away free tastings on Monday Dec. 14 from 12-2

Tap Dancing Dreidel Girls: Nice Jewish Girls Gone Bad is a refreshing mix of comedy, music, spoken-word, and show-stopping burlesque, featuring the gals who learned to smoke at Hebrew School, got drunk at their Bat-Mitzvahs and would rather have more schtuppa than the chupah. The show features performers seen on Comedy Central, HBO, Late Night TV, and more.

For more information, visit www.nicejewishgirlsgonebad.com.

Whittle your waist while keeping your wallet fat, just in time for the holidays! Food Network's Claire Robinson was here to show us some great, easy tips to help you spend less time in the kitchen.

She shared with us her top 10 tips and her recipes for Grape Tomato Bruschetta, French Onion Tart, Minted Squash Orzo and Chili-Chocolate Covered Strawberries (see them after the jump).

Actor/rapper/producer Nick Cannon stopped by the studio to talk about hosting TeenNick's Halo Awards and being named Sexiest Host in the People Magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" issue.

A native of San Diego, Cannon got his big break in the Nickelodeon show All That. The network later gave him his own show --The Nick Cannon Show -- in 2002. He later starrred in Drumline, Love Don't Cost a Thing, Roll Bounce and Underclassman. In 2003, he got his feet wet in the music industry and released his self-titled debut album. Cannon is married to singer Mariah Carey.

For more on The Halo Awards airs tonightt at 8pm on TeenNick. For more information, visit www.teennick.com/halo.

Singer-turned-actor Billy Ray Cyrus was here this morning to talk about his role as Daniel Burton in the Hallmark Channel film Christmas in Canaan.

"In the rising heat of the Civil Rights Movement, Daniel Burton (Cyrus) a widowed farmer struggling to make ends meet, forces his young son, DJ, who has begun to show racist tendencies, to spend time with his black classmate, Rodney, leading to an unexpected friendship. As the years pass and racial tensions in their town build, an unforgettable Christmas will teach the boys the importance of hope and the true meaning of family," says Hallmark of the movie. Cyrus admits he jumped at the chance to be a part of the project, which revolves around two boys who care for an injured dog.

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

1. I want to start exercising, but I'm already thin due to Crohn's Disease and I'm afraid to lose more weight. What kind of exercises should I do if I want to improve my heart and lungs? Kristina, Long Island

2. My dad received chemo and radiation 8 years ago with no side effects. For the past few years he suffers from feelings of nausea. Is there such a thing as a delayed reaction to the chemotherapy?
Valerie, Jersey City

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

This week's Friday Forecaster is Oliver Song from Lincroft, New Jersey. Oliver is a local finalist in the 2009 Wendy's High School Heisman competition.

Celebrating the competition's 16th anniversary, Wendy's is looking for the next class of High School Heisman recipients - exceptional students who bring excellence in academics, athletics and community service.

One male and one female will be named the 2010 Wendy's High School Heisman national award winners during the awards ceremony in New York City. Both winners will receive an additional $10,000 award for their respective high schools, a Wendy's High School Heisman trophy, Heisman patch and a $500 Wendy's gift card.

Read Oliver's stats after the jump.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Actor Tom Felton stopped by to talk about his role as the dastardly Draco Malfoy and the recent release of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on DVD and Blu-Ray.

"In the sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft, and in both wizard and muggle worlds Lord Voldemort and his henchmen are increasingly active. With vacancies to fill at Hogwarts, Professor Dumbledore persuades Horace Slughorn, back from retirement to become the potions teacher, while Professor Snape receives long awaited news. Harry Potter, together with Dumbledore, must face treacherous tasks to defeat his evil nemesis," says IMDB.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is available in stores now. For more information, visit harrypotter.warnerbros.com.

It's cold outside. So, why not stay inside and snuggle up with a video game. This season's video game releases are red hot. CNET.com gives a few picks on the best video games of the holiday season, whcih included:

1. The Beatles: Rock Band
2. New Super Mario Bros. Wii
3. Dragon Age: Origins
4. Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
5. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

For more information, visit CNET.com.

It's holiday season and that means parties and get-togethers that you'll need the perfect dress for. You'll want something fun, festive, but also figure-flattering. Fashion Editor Thea Palad from Women's Health has tips on how to find the perfect party dress for your shape.

• Pear Shape: The Tart Dress, $238, tartcollections.com
• Athletic Body: French Connection Dress, $148, frenchconnection.com
• Curvy: Forever 21, $27.80, forever21.com
• Straight

For more on dressing for your body type, pick up the latest issue of Women's Health Magazine or visit www.womenshealthmag.com.

'Tis the season for loading up on carbs and fats and coming to the rescue is New York Sports Clubs' The Nutcracker Workout.

Freshen up your mundane workout routine with ballet moves and movement combinations set to Tchaikovsky's classic score that will lengthen, strengthen, and add holiday cheer! This Ballet-Fitness Workout will be offered in New York Sports Clubs during the holiday season, and both amateurs and seasoned dancers have been flocking to the popular class, taught by the creator: award-winning Ballet and Broadway choreographer Stas' Kmiec'.

For more information, visit www.mysportsclubs.com.

Actor Giovanni Ribisi stopped by the studio to talk about his role as Parker Selfridge in the new film from director James Cameron -- Avatar.

Avatar centers on a paraplegic ex-marine war veteran who’s sent to establish a human settlement on the distant planet of Pandora, only to find himself battling humankind alongside the planet's indigenous Na'vi race. Ribisi's co-stars include Sigourney Weaver, Sam Worthington , Michelle Rodriguez and Joel David Moore.

A Los Angeles native, Ribisi's other acting credits include Public Enemies, My Name Is Earl, The Big White, Lost In Translation and Friends.

Avatar his theaters on December 18. For more information, visit www.avatarmovie.com.

Read the full story: "Ask Ashley: Eliot Spitzer's "Client 9" Gives Relationship Advice".

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

1. How can a college student reduce stress before finals?
Haitham, Jersey City

2. I'm a Type 2 diabetic. Do you recommend I get the swine flu vaccination?
Donald, The Bronx

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

This holiday season, give the gift of literacy! Is your kid a girly girl, adventurer, foodie or animal lover? No matter your kids interests, we've got a holiday-themed book for them. Lizzie Patton, owner of Happily Ever After Bookshop, was here with book recommendations for kids ages 3 to 9-years-old, whichi included:

• Fancy Nancy Splendiforous Christmas, $17.99
• A Pirate's Night Before Christmas, $14.95
• Gingerbread Friends, $17.99
• Stranger in the Woods, $19.95
• Blizzard of the Blue Moon, $4.99
• Christmas in Camelot, $4.99

All of these books are available at Happily Ever After Bookshop in Rockville Centre, Long Island. For more information, visit www.happilyeverafterbookshop.com.

It's inspiration and guidance for mothers by mothers and through the website MomsAndTheCity.net, Denise Albert, Melissa Gerstein and Raina Gittlin are surely doing things their way. The ladies stopped by to talk to us about the website and its features.

For more information, log onto http://www.momsandthecity.net.

Actor Jimmy Smits stopped by to talk about joining the cast of Broadway's "God of Carnage."

The play begins when the son of one couple (Smits and Annie Potts) has broken two of the teeth of the son of another (Christine Lahti and Ken Stott). As a result of the incident, huge tensions emerge and the gloves come off, leaving the two supposed civilized married couples caught up in an all-out playground fight.

Even though he lives in Los Angeles with his family, Smits is a Brooklyn native who attended Brooklyn College and Cornell University. Smits is a Golden Globe- and Emmy-winning actor who is, perhaps, most recongized for his roles as Victor Sifuentes on L.A. Law, Det. Bobby Simone on NYPD Blue and Matt Santos on West Wing.

"God of Carnage" is playing at the Bernard Jacobs Theater, located at 242 W. 45th Street, New York, NY 10036. For ticket and show information, visit godofcarnage.com.

Many holiday street vendors are finding success selling their products outdoors on the streets of New York. Lisa Mateo visited two holiday markets to find out why New Yorkers and tourists alike are forking up the cash for the many unique items.

Bryant Park's Holiday Market runs through January 3rd and the Columbus Circle Market runs through December 24th.

Give the gift of health and wellness this holiday season. Amanda Freeman and Lisa Blau - founders of Vital Juice, stopped by with some gift ideas that are good for your mind, body, soul and your wallet .

IntelliWhite’s Pout & Polish Pen
- $27.50 at www.rxbright.com
- Dual-sided pen with a stain remover on one side and a vitamin-packed lip plumping gloss (in clear or pink) that freshens your breath on the other side
- Peroxide-free formula that is safe to use all day
- Whip it out right after a coffee or glass of red wine to avoid setting stains

JimmyJane’s Contour M Ceramic Massage Stone
- $25 at www.jimmyjane.com
- The domed side serves as an all-over muscle relaxer
- The flip side features four small nodes that go deep into muscle tissue to iron out serious kinks
- You can also put it in the freezer for a cooling massage or dunk it in hot water for a warming massage

During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, one gift we could all appreciate is the gift of time. There never seems to be enough, especially when you're a parent. Here to share her time saving tips is Beth Feldman, the author of See Mom Run. She recommends:

• The first thing you say is to shop for groceries online
• Visit parenting blogs
• Make clean up a breeze
• Keep kids entertained

To find out more about her time saving tips for the holidays, visit www.rolemommy.com.

Don't know the 360 from PS3 or Wii? There are a few gaming consoles out there and before you invest in one as a gift, you need to know know more about them. Dan Ackerman from CNET.com was here to share his gaming knowledge.

Microsoft Xbox 360
For: Serious gamers, Netflix subscribers, social gamers who like playing with friends online.
Pro: Low entry price -- $199; Best online community (Xbox Live); great Netflix streaming; Popular exclusive games such as Halo and Left 4 Dead.
Con: Xbox Live costs an extra $50/year; no Blu-ray or popular games like God of War.
Best games: Modern Warfare 2; Dragon Age: Origins; Beatles Rock Band

Entourage star Emmanuelle Chriqui was here to talk to us about her role as Bambi in the new film Women in Trouble about her partnership with Braun.

Women In Trouble follows a serpentine day in the life of ten seemingly disparate women: a porn star, a flight attendant, a psychiatrist, a masseuse, a bartender, a pair of call girls and more. All of them with one crucial thing in common: They're trouble. Chriqui stars alingside Carla Gugino, Simon Baker and Josh Brolin. Women In Trouble is in theaters now.

While staying on top of her acting game, she also has her hand in marketing Braun’s new products. Chriqui taked about the first all-in-one body groomer called, BodycruZade and the latest products from Braun that should be on every guy's holiday wish list this season.

Nancy Notaro from Animal Care and Control stop by with some cute and cuddly pets in need of loving homes.

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

Depending on your ethnicity, you will have a different cosmetic need. There are little tricks you can learn to highlight your own beauty and enhance your best features. Celebrity Makeup Artist Sam Fine was here with tips:

African American Model - Skin
• AA women don't flush in traditional sense so using a bronzer in place of blush will bring warmth to the skin and look more natural
• Layer bronzer over foundation so it gives the face a subtle, natural glow; apply it to the outer perimeter of the face for a "halo of glow"

Just last week, John "Junior" Gotti walked out a free man for the fourth time after his trial ended in another hung jury. The question is: will there be a number five? Only federal prosecutors know here to talk more about her brother's release is Victoria Gotti, author of This Family of Mine, which is available in stores now.

Actor Justin Kirk joins us today to talk about his new hit Broadway play "The Understudy."

"The Understudy" is a comedy about the inner workings of the less-than-glamorous side of Broadway. During this 90 minute performance, it introduces a cast of characters including a star who doesn’t understand the play, a disgruntled stage manager, and a stoner set technician and an understudy trapped in a thankless job amidst all the comic chaos.

The Emmy-nominated Kirk is a native of Salem, Oregon, who is known for playing Prior Walter in Mike Nichols's screen adaptation of Angels in America. He’s received an Obie Award for Distinguished Performance in the Ensemble. Kirk also won a Back Stage West Garland Award for Outstanding Performance on his role of a piano prodigy in Old Wicked Songs and was nominated for a Golden Globe in 2007 and that’s just to name a few of his accomplishments for his work.

"The Understudy" is playing now through January 17, 2010 at the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre (111 West 46th St). For ticket information, go to www.roundabouttheatre.org.

Written by LaTeisha Clay

CYBERSPACE (AP) - Wanna see what's going on at the site of the World Trade Center? There are a bunch of new pictures and video that let you do just that. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey have posted new views from the construction site to Flickr.com and YouTube. The site where the towers once stood until the terrorist attacks of 2001 will be home to new office towers, a
memorial to the 9/11 victims and a transit hub. Progress on the construction is years behind schedule.

Links:
• http://www.flickr.com/photos/wtcprogress
• http://www.youtube.com/wtcprogress

For the prankster in your life, you can buy these fake gift boxes, put your real gift inside and watch your loved one squirm!

For more information on how you can pick up one of these prank pack gift boxes for a holiday prank, visit www.prankpack.com.

Mother, sister, wife, daughter -- there are lots of ladies in your life and finding the right for each of them does require a skill. Here to help you with the task is style maven Nicole Young.

MOM
• Silky soft Robe ($29) by Fredericks of Hollywood
• Roll up ballet flats from Yosi Samra available at Yosisamra.com $50

EXPECTING MOMS
• Fit 2 Be Mom Active Kit ($52) fit2bmom.com

WCBS-FM is holding its 2nd Annual Radiothon Benefiting Children's Miracle Network Hospitals in Metro New York and New Jersey. Larry Hoff is joining Dan Taylor from WCBS-FM and our own Mr. G, who are participating in the event, at Schneider Children's Hosptial in New Hyde Park.

Concerned about what the upcoming holiday season means for your diet and ultimately your waistline? Worry no more because Edy’s Slow Churned Ice Cream has done the math for you and offers great alternatives to traditional, high calorie holiday favorites that will still keep your taste buds jolly!

Edy’s Slow Churned is bringing back its Limited Edition Slow Churned® Light Ice Cream Holiday Flavors in Eggnog, Peppermint and Pumpkin Pie just in time for the holiday season. And new to the holiday line-up, Edy’s has added a brand new flavor, Slow Churned Hot Cocoa! With sweet and fluffy marshmallows swirled into a creamy chocolate light ice cream, this new flavor is sure to top your “nice” list.

All Slow Churned varieties contain half the fat and one-third fewer calories than regular ice cream, but packs the same amount of flavor, allowing you to satisfy those holiday cravings while getting a head start on that New Year’s resolution!

The man in your life deserves something better than socks, sweaters and boxers this holiday. But, not sure to get him? Here with some gift suggestions for your guy is lifestyle expert Kevin Lennox.

• Gourmet's Best Panini Maker, $24.99
• Harvest Direct Slider Station, $19.99
• Samsung Omnia II Windows Phone, $199
• Lands' End Snowroller Jacket, $89.99
• Mr. Beer Home Brewery, $49.95
• Gillette Fusion Power MVP, $14.99

For more on Lennox, visit sirlennox.com.

Accidents do happen and with the bustle of the holiday season, there's definitely a chance that something is going to spill, get dirty or make a mess. Here with what she calls last minute tricks for chips, drips, streaks and greets is the "Accidental Housewife" Julie Edelman.

• CANDLE WAX DRIPS
Solution: Iron/newspaper

• CLEANING SILVERWARE
Solution: Ketchup, hot water, salt & baking soda

CW newcomer Jana Kramer was here to talk about her new role as Alex on One Tree Hill . She also told us if she weren't an actress, she would want to be a TV broadcaster. We put Kramer to the test and let her do this morning's traffic report for us!

As Alex on the show she becomes the new face of Brooke's fashion line, "Clothes Over Bros." She plays the part of a beautiful actress with a troubled past and is in need for attention, which eventually shake things up.

Kramer, 26, was born and raised in Detroit. She has quickly risen among the Hollywood ranks of hot chicks. Her acting credits include Entourage, 90210, Prom Night and Friday Night Lights.

One Tree Hill airs Mondays at 8pm on WPIX. For more information, visit www.cwtv.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay

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

1. My mom has a pacemaker and is always cold. Can she use a heating blanket? She is 90-years-old.
Josephine, Hicksville, Long Island

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

That apple paperweight might seem like no-brainer holiday gift for your child's teach, but that doesn't mean she's actually going to like it. Redbook polled teachers from across the country and in this segment, editor Camille Chatterjee revealed their best and worst gifts of all time. We'll show a tabletop of the do and don't gifts for visual.

GIFT DON'Ts
• Apple Ornament - Your teacher probably has enough apple ornaments, paperweights, and mugs to fill a classroom (and collect dust there). Better to get her a real apple-at least she can eat it

• Ugly Coasters - Just because you've met your child's teacher doesn't mean you know her taste-and these just beg to be regifted.

They are moving forward for 2010. The Miracle Mets are getting it together during the off season. New York Mets pitchers Bobby Parnell and Jonathan Niese talked about how they're using their time outside of the field to help out with a few good causes.

From 8am to 7pm today, fans can drop off new or used coats at the citi field first base VIP entrance. Each donor will receive two tickets to a select mets home game in april of the 2010 season.

Actor Jeff Bridges stops by to talk about his new film Crazy Heart, which he was just nominated for a Golden Globe.

Crazy Heart is a drama about an alcoholic country singer who finds redemption with the help of a single mom journalist played by Maggie Gyllenhaal. The film was originally scheduled to open in Spring of 2010 but the studio, Fox Searchlight, moved up the release date when words spread that Bridges' performance could land him a couple of golden statues during the award season.

"I just hope people read those [reviews] and go see the movie," Bridges told Suki. "It's a small budget film so we can't afford ads and commercials."

Crazy Heart is in theaters now. For more information, visit www.foxsearchlight.com/crazyheart.

The holidays may not be the best time of the year especially for some singles but that shouldn't be the case! Karen Salmansohn, career coach and author of the new book Even God Is Single, was here with a survival guide for singles.

Even God Is Single, So Stop Giving Me A Hard Time is in stores now. For more information, visit notsalmon.com.

Larry was live at Garden State Plaza with shoppers that are shopping for a good cause.

Throughout the morning, he will be giving four lucky PIX Morning News viewers the chance to win their own shopping sprees at the Garden State Plaza.

5am: $100 Kiehl's Gift Basket
Congratulations, to our winner Victoria Suarez of Teaneck, NJ!
Click here to read the official rules to the Kiel's Giveaway.

6am: $200 Gift Card To Fashion Retailer Torrid
Congratulations, to our winner Gina Valenti of Wantagh, NY!
Click here to read the official rules to the Torrid Giveaway.

7am: $100 Build-A-Bear Gift Card
Congratulations, to our winner Geneva Oliver of Bronx, NY!
Click here to read the official rules to the Build-A-Bear Giveaway.

8am: $100 Westfield Garden State Plaza Gift Card
Congratulations, to our winner Danny Juliano of Staten Island, NY!
Click here to read the official rules to the Build-A-Bear Giveaway.

Egg nog and apple cider may hit the spot during the holiday season. But add a few spirits and you can really get into the spirit. Here with a few festive cocktails is the Anthony Caporale, host of the Art of The Drink TV, who shared his recipes for a Steve Collins, Cranberry Mojito and Pear Martini.

Steve Collins
In a Boston shaker tin filled with ice, add:
1-1/4 oz. Bombay Sapphire Gin
Juice of 1/2 Lemon
Juice of 1/2 Lime
1/2 packet Truvia Natural Sweetener
2 Slices Fresh Ginger

1. Shake until tin is frosted, double strain into a tall glass filled with No Sugar Added Cranberry Juice ice, add:2 oz. San Pellegrino
2. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint pinned to the rim with a lemon wedge, serve with a cocktail straw.

Travel Expert Lori Rothschild Ansaldi will be here with her picks of the top 10 destinations for 2010. Here are her picks from No. 10 to No. 1.

10. Washington, D.C.
9. Iceland
8. Going on a cruise
7. Keystone, Colorado
6. Thailand
5. Beijing, China
4. Marrakesh, Morocco
3. Tunisia
2. South Africa
1. Vancouver, Canada

For more infomation, visit traveltvgirl.blogspot.com.

Prostate Cancer Coalition of New Jersey's Stand By Your Man Calendar Girls are 12 New Jersey women whose husbands have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. This morning we had three of the 12 Calendar Girls -- Sheila Rosko, Mary McCalea, Donna Almquist and Kathy Gartner -- and their husbands. The featured women range from ages 40 to 78.

What all these women have in common is that their husbands have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, and are here to share their stories with us. They all come from different backgrounds throughout the state and range in age from 40 to 78.

Prostate cancer affects 1 in 6 men today, and, though there has been a tremendous amount of research on the subject, little is known about how to prevent it from occurring. Even with state of the art treatment, the basic fact is that awareness and early detection of the disease are most often the best defense a man can have.

These women come from all walks of life, some never having met until the day they showed up for their turn in front of the camera. They came to stand by their men, to help in whatever way they could.

KISS frontman Gene Simmons was in the studio to talk about the new KISS book KISS Kompendium.

KISS Kompendium is an eye-popping compilation of the previously out-of-print Stan Lee Marvel comic book adventures of the legendary heavy metal band, as well as the famed Psycho Circus and Dark Horse editions and KISS's own KISStory.

Featuring artwork by Todd McFarlane and other acclaimed graphic artists and fully authorized by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, KISS Kompendium coincides with the release of the latest album and includes candid, never before seen photos from the recent KISS tour and from the band members’ personal archives. Here is the perfect gift for every comic book lover, rock music aficionado, and KISS fanatic on the planet.

Simmons is best known as "The Demon" -- the blood-spitting, fire-breathing, and tongue-wagging bassist. The 60-year-old co-founded the group in the early 1970s. KISS just came off a sold out world tour and the band has released a new album as well a few months ago that was their first Top 5 album.

For more on Simmons, visit http://www.genesimmons.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay.

Read the full story: "Despite his personal life in turmoil, Tiger Woods voted AP's best athlete for 2000s".

Don't know what to wear to your next fete? We have you covered this holiday season! Fashion expert Tara Clavell-Vera brings us some of the best for less!

Sparkle in Sequins
Vintage Havana's Jersey V-neck Sequin Dress/$78/Bloomingdale's
Ballet meets ballroom in this elegant-with-a-twist Vintage Havana dress. Dance your way through the night with sleek black tights and pumps.

This morning Ashley Dupre -- the woman who was at the center of the Eliot Spitzer scandal -- here to talk about her new sex column in the New York Post and sound off on current scandals.

Dupre, 24, who first made headlines under her call girl name or "Kristen", said in a NY Post introduction video, "I used to be on the front page of the New York Post. Now, I’m writing for it." According to various reports, Dupre is also considering offers to pose naked in a magazine, saying that she's "not opposed to nude photography."

To read Dupre's sex column, pick up a copy of the NY Post or visit www.nypost.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay.

Read the full story: "Project SOS - Support Our Students!!"

As PIX News launches it's campaign "Project: Support Our Students (SOS)," students and families throughout the area are sounding off on the possibility of losing their free student Metrocards.

The Metropolitan Transit Authority voted to eliminate the cards Wednesday as part of their 2010 doomsday budget plan. In addition, cuts to service are also expected.

Dustin Diamond, known to many as "Screech" from "Saved by the Bell", stopped by the studio today to talk to PIX about his stand up comedy career and new book, "Behind the Bell."

A lot has happened since his days as the nerdy, quirky character from the hit tv show. The California native has also appeared on Celebrity Boxing, The Weakest Link, and in 2007, on Celebrity Fit Club.

However, Diamond is best known for the roll he played for ten years on Saved by the Bell. Now, in his tell-all book he invites the readers into the salacious details behind the clean-cut cafeteria and high school hallway scenes. Check out his interview with PIX to find out what kind of dirt Diamond is dishing in his new book.

Want to see Diamond in Person? Here's the info on his upcoming comedy gigs

The stunning Kerry Washington stopped by the studio today to talk about her role in "Race", the new highly acclaimed Broadway play by David Mamet. Originally from the Bronx, Washington is known for speaking up about social issues from politics to female empowerment.

Washington is also working on a documentary with Matt Damon and Josh Brolin called "The People Speak", a film based on the 2004 book of the same name by Howard Zinn. It focuses on democracy and is enriched with dramatic readings of famous historical documents performed by celebrities including Washington, Damon, Brolin, Marisa Tomei, Viggo Mortensen and others. It also features music by Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder and John Legend, and will air on the History Channel later this year.

For on Kerry Washington's fascinating career check out her website, and for tickets to "Race" please visit the official website

Larry Hoff has been an intrepid reporter with the Morning News bringing out smiles, gasps and raised eyebrows from those lucky enough to run into him on the streets. Larry has been with for nearly ten years, dating back to the very beginning of the morning show. His portfolio of fantastic feats and daring segments is a thick one, and it was very difficult to pick out the best ones, but we feel we did a pretty good job. So enjoy this incredible trip down memory lane with the one and only Larry Hoff! We all wish you the best, Larry.

For many people the holidays are a time to unwind and enjoy time with loved ones, but let's face it, this season doesn't always go as planned. Gabrielle Bernestein, a self-help guru and the author of "Add More -Ing to Your Life", was on the set today to help us through the difficult scenarios of Christmas and life in general.

For more information on Gabrielle and tips on how to achieve year-round happiness, check out her website.

"You never know what to expect from the MTA nowadays, except that they're constantly asking from more money," said City Council member and Comptroller-elect John Liu. "They have reached the new low."

As to the plan to eliminate free rides for New York City school children, Liu argued the proposed cut is not going to save the authority "a single cent."

"The MTA is jumping the gun here," said Liu, who promised to look into the authority's financial problem as his first task as the city's comptroller in January.

Got a holiday party that you think deserves a little more than a boring bottle of red or white wine? John Henry is a wine and spirits expert with some inspirational ideas for the holidays. He tackles all the usual questions and throws in some great tips on individual brands. What should you mix with eggnog? What's a good rum for the season? What are the local all stars when it comes to vinters and distilleries? Here are just a few of the websites mentioned in the interview to help you stock up for the holidays: Monte Cristo Rum, Makers Mark, Philadelphia Distilling, Lieb Cellars, Don Q Rums, and Regatta Ginger Beer.

Well don't miss this interview with Sally Morrison, director of the Diamond Information Center. Sally breaks down the latest diamond trends of the year. From Everlon Diamond Kots to Right Hand Rings, figure out which styles are the dependable classics and which may turn out to be a dying trend.

If you really want to do your homework, head on over to the Diamond Information Center.

From traditional red and green to fashionable glitz and glam, Cathy Hobbs from Metro Residential stopped by the studio today to give Christmas tips to liven up your tree.

From the house party to the black-tie formal, Joyce Chang, deputy editor of "People Style Watch", dropped by the studio to clear up what you should do when you don't quiiiite understand what the dress code calls for. Chang brought along her lovely models to give you some inspiration and a little guidance in planning for the next holiday party.

For more information or inspiration, check out the "People of Style Watch" December/January issue.

The countdown to 2010 is right around corner. And now's the time to figure out how to spend the biggest party night of the year.

Erica Maurer of EMRG Media and BestNewYears.com stopped by with what we need to consider before we make that decision.

Maurer suggests that we put our budget into consideration, as well as location and what the packages being offered include.

The folks at EMRG Media and BestNewYears.com have something special planned for WPIX viewers...discounted tickets to any of the 40 + events that they are producing here in NYC, Miami, Vegas, etc. Simply go to www.bestnewyears.com and type in WPIX in the promo code section.

EMRG Media is an events, marketing and publishing firm and have been producing events for more than 10 years. They produce all types of events from corporate, to social, charity functions to new years eve parties.

Richard Matusow, the vice president of Sambazon, stopped by to explain the new super fruit that's everyone's talking about.

Acai Berry grows in palm tress along the Amazon River in South America. It's a fruit that is loaded with health benefits.

Don't let the holiday break put a dent in your exercise routine. Here to show us how to jingle our way to health with items found around the house is Jon Gallo of Dolphin Fitness Clubs.

PIX is trying to help students keep their transportation privileges. We've initiated Project SOS -- Support Our Students.

Here to talk about the financial strain these MTA cuts will cost students are Hiro Shinohara, a teacher at NYC's High School of Ecnomics and Finance and Assemblyman Lou Tobacco.

First released in 1979, "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer" is celebrating its 30th Anniversary. The Christmas hit has sold more than 11 copies. Joining us to talk about the whimsical tune is musician Dr. Elmo.

If you're stressed out about the high cost of this year's holiday gift list, the answer to your problems can be found inside your home...All you have to do is turn your clutter into cash!

Whether it's double appliances, unused picture frames or a stack of books---just remember, your trash is someone's treasure!

Lisa Mateo finds out how your unwanted junk can be used to pay for those pricey presents.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a fabulous time on New Year's Eve.

We're checking out New Year's Eve Party Packages for every budget. Erica Maurer and Kelsy Hill were here live to tell us how to ring in the new year!

Diane Wilkerson from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals stops by with some cute and cuddly pets in need of loving homes.

For more information on how you can adopt a pet, visit www.aspca.org/adoption/ or call (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120.

Food Network star, celebrity chef and father of three, Tyler Florence was here live. He just announced his new line of organic baby food that will be available throughout the tri-state area in Whole Foods Markets.

Sprout Baby Food is healthy, gourmet and ecologically packaged with recipes. They were developed by Florence and gives babies the nutrition they need and the taste they crave.

He created Sprout because he says as a father, he knew first-hand the challenges of feeding small children. He founded the company with a longtime friend, Max MacKenzie, now the CEO. Florence says it's important to start infants on the right path to a healthy and nutritious diet.

In addition to his new baby food line, Tyler has been starring in the Food Network show "Tyler's Ultimate." On the show, he offers up the ulitmate receipes of classic dishes.

You can meet Florence today at the Whole Foods Market on the Upper West Side on Tuesday, from noon to 3 p.m.

Don't lose your style and sanity this holiday season. We have the must haves to survive the holiays. These quick fixes and inexpensive updates are the go-to staples for this holiday season.

Fashion expert Jenn Falik was here with your holiday survial guide.

Problem: Weight Gain
Solution: Adjust-a-Button, It will give you an extra one or two inches.
Cost: $18

Your shape needs smoothing
Yummie Tummie Tanks and Tees
$62

Apply make-up like an expert
Stila Makeup Player
$69.50

Apply highlights but don't have time to go to the salon
Kelly Van Gogh Heads UP! Home highlighting kit
$49

Last minute style update
Marshall's Lace Leggins
$9.99

Shoes
Shoelery
$50

Dr.Steve discusses new reports that prescription drugs were found in the home of Brittany Murphy. According to the Associated Press, autopsy had been conducted and officials are awaiting the results of toxicology that could determine the cause of her untimely death.

Read the full story: "Project SOS - Support Our Students!!"

Constantine Maroulis joins us to talk about his lead role as Drew in Broadays play "Rock of Ages."

Constantine Maroulis is an American rock singer, actor, and writer from Wyckoff, New Jersey. He was the lead vocalist of the hard rock band Pray for the Soul of Betty and the sixth-place finalist on the fourth season of American Idol. He received a nomination for a Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical for his role in Rock of Ages. In a recent interview Maroulis said "this business is a lot about luck and timing. To have the opportunity to create a role in a great show has always been a dream of mine, and then to be able to help take us from Off-Broadway to Broadway and then to get a Tony Award nomination -- well, it's all been a real thrill."

The play takes place in 1987 on Sunset Strip, where a small town girl meets a big city rocker and in LA's most famous rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the 80s, ROCK OF AGES. Maroulis plays Drew Bowie, a hopeful wine-cooler drinking rocker who dreams of making it to the big time.

To learn more about Constantine Maroulis go to http://www.constantinemaroulis.com/

If you're looking for tickets visit http://www.broadway.com/shows/rock-of-ages

For tickets to his February 20th and 24th concert, go here.

Written by LaTeisha Clay

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

1. I am a 58-year-old woman. Lately, I have been experiencing night sweats. What could be causing this?
Kay, New Brunswick

2. I heard that you shouldn't eat your fruits and veggies together, such as fruit in salad. Why is that?
Rhesa, Brooklyn

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

It's harder than ever to get your kids to eat healthy, but it can be done. You just have to know how to sneak the good stuff in.

Physician, nutrition specialist and pediatrician Dr. Mary Renna, author of Growing Up Healthy, The Next Generation Way was here with some healthy alternatives for your kids' meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert). She shared with us her recipes for Oatmeal Pancakes with Bananas, Single-Serving Easy Pizza, Chicken Strips and Rice Pudding.

Actor Stephen Lang stopped by the studio to talk about his role as Colonel Miles Quaritch in the new film from director James Cameron -- Avatar.

Avatar centers on a paraplegic ex-marine war veteran who’s sent to establish a human settlement on the distant planet of Pandora, only to find himself battling humankind alongside the planet's indigenous Na'vi race. Lange's co-stars include Sigourney Weaver, Sam Worthington , Michelle Rodriguez, Joel David Moore and Giovanni Ribisi.

Lang is a native New Yorker whose acting credits include movies The Men Who Stare at Goats, Public Enemies, From Mexico With Love and TV shows D-Tox and The Fugitive.

Avatar is in theaters now. For more information, visit www.avatarmovie.com.

Muppets Kermit and Miss Piggy were here to talk about the movie A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa.

In the holiday movie, Gonzo forgets to mail three of his letters to Santa and convinces Kermit and the gang to help him deliver them to the North Pole. Some famous faces who appear in the movie are Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Whoopi Goldberg, Nathan Lane and Uma Thurman.

A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa is available on DVD now.

Actress Bryce Dallas Howard stopped by to talk about her role as Fisher Willow in the new movie The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond - a Tennessee Williams screenplay.

The movie "tells the story of Fisher Willow (Howard), the disliked 1920s Memphis débutante daughter of a plantation owner with a distaste for narrow-minded people and a penchant for shocking and insulting those around her. After returning from studies overseas, Fisher falls in love with Jimmy, the down-and-out son of an alcoholic father and an insane mother who works at a store on her family's plantation. She tries to pass him off as an upper-class suitor to appease the spinster aunt who controls her family's fortune, but when she loses a diamond, it places their tenuous relationship in further jeopardy," according to IMDB.

Howard is a Los Angeles native. Fans will remember her from her roles as Gwen Stacy in Spiderman 3, Kate Connor in Terminator Salvation and Story in Lady In The Water. You can catch her in her next film as Victoria in The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.

The Loss of a Teardrop Diamond hits theaters on December 30.

All eyes on the skies at NORAD -- the military facility charged with monitoring airspace over North America. The folks there are tracking an unregistered sled from the North Pole driven by none other than Santa Claus. He tends to show up on this night each year.

But not to worry: the full resources of the U.S. military and intelligence services are standing watch.

You can follow Santa's journey yourself at www.noradsanta.org.

With the approach of the New Year, its time to reflect on 2009. Our Lisa Mateo was certainly busy, keeping us updated on the latest happenings around town. She’s covered it all from working out and eating out to broadway and dance. But there's more to come in 2010 so stay tuned!

They're not called the Bad Boys of Dance for nothing. Gold medal winner and Broadway star Rasta Thomas presents "Rock the Ballet" for an extended three-week season. So our Ojinika Obiekwe went behind the scenes to learn some moves from the pros.

Bad Boys company members currently includes Robbie Nicholson, a veteran Broadway performer who danced for two years in Susan Stroman's The Music Man amd Kameron Bink who appeared on the hit TV show "So You Think You Can Dance?" as a Top Ten Finalist.

Actor Stanley Tucci stopped by to talk about his role as George Harvey in the much-anticipated film The Lovely Bones.

Tucci plays the bad guy in this flick, which "centers on a young girl who has been murdered and watches over her family - and her killer (Tucci) - from heaven. She must weigh her desire for vengeance against her desire for her family to heal," says IMDB.

He began his career in the early 1980s in Broadway's “The Queen and the Rebel.” Tucci is best known for his work in The Pelican Brief, Kiss of Death and the Road to Perdition.

The Lovely Bones will be in theatres on January 15, 2010. For more information, visit www.lovelybones.com.

Written by LaTeisha Clay.

New Jersey's own Rob Battaglino stopped by to bring us some holiday cheer and sing his new song "Christmas Time."

Battaglino was a regular hardwood floor contractor. Then in 2006, he began writing a song with his wife. Eventually, he let friend (and drummer) Charlie Beyer listen to it. Beyer saw potential in the song, later titled "Christmas Time," rounded up some more musicians and convinced Battaglino to record the track.

Battaglino's songs can be found on Amazon and Apple iTunes. For more on his music, visit www.myspace.com/robbattaglino.

Written by LaTeisha Clay.

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 Stand-Up at Three of Cups Lounge, NYC
2. Free New Year's Eve Party at SPIN New York, NYC

Alan Krutchkoff, founder of Adopt-A-Soldier Platoon stops by to talk to us about how the program started and how far they've come since its inception in 2003

Jill and Marvin also have a special surprise! The soldier Alan adopted will be opening his gifts on-air!

For more on Adopt-A-Soldier Platoon, visit www.adoptasoldierplatoon.org.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL COVERAGE OF PIX'S CHRISTMAS IN IRAQ

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

1. Is it safe to take fat burners while working out?
Vonetta, Brooklyn

2. I'm constantly battling sinus infections. What can I do to avoid them and get rid of them? Ellie, Bronx

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

Our anchors share with us one of their favorite family holiday stories.

Allison will share the story of her daughter's first Hannukkah. Chris will talk about a tradition he has with his grandfather. Craig sharing a photo of when he was 7-years-old.

"Finian's Rainbow" star Kate Baldwin stopped by to perform the Broadway play's two hit songs "How Are Things" and "Look to the Rainbow."

You can catch Baldwin in "Finian's Rainbow" at the St, James Theatre (246 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036). For tickets and showtimes, visit www.finiansonbroadway.com.

This week's Friday Forecaster is Santa Claus! He stopped by to spread some holiday cheer and tell us the weather.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Every year the PIX gang gets together to bring in some holiday cheer and today, we're continuing that tradition with our own rendition of the Chipmunks' classic "Christmas Song."

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Kangoo Jumps are boots with bounce and they'll help you hop your way to a better body! Mario Green of Crunch was here with details on this fitness craze.

She shoed us how to do the double foot jump with a side leg lift, ski jump. In/out, slalom ski and tuck jump.

For more info on the Kangoo classes offered at Crunch, visit www.crunch.com.

Actress Natasha Lyonne stopped by to talk about her role in the critically-accalimed off-Broadway play "Love, Loss and What I Wore."

According to Broadway.com, "'Love, Loss and What I Wore' follows fragmented stories about the nostalgic power of women’s clothing. A starry cast of five women enrobed in chic black sit on stools and tell funny, wistful and universal memories about their families and loved ones through the prism of their closets. The throughline is narrated by Gingy, a wise older woman who reminisces about what she wore at milestones in her life—complete with sketches of the styles.

"Like a long heart-to-heart with your best friend over coffee, the conversation meanders from a bittersweet story of a stepmother wearing the same style bathrobe as her husband’s late wife (to the dismay of the children) to a couple’s musings of what they wore on their wedding day to a rant about loathing the need to carry a purse. With odes to black clothing, cowboy boots and outfits that makes mothers cringe, 'Love, Loss and What I Wore' is unabashedly girly—in a good way." Lyonne's castmates include Lucy DeVito, Katie Finneran, Capathia Jenkins, and Mary Louise Wilson.

"Love, Loss and What I Wore" is currently playing at the West Side Theatre at 407 W 43rd Street (between 9th and 10th Avenues). For tickets and show information, visit www.lovelossonstage.com.

From a wedding party shuffle down the aisle to an overnight singing sensation, 2009 definitely had its fair share of web stars.

These stars not only went viral but some even garnered enough buzz on the web to launch careers!

PIX's Andrew Ramos took a look back at those who made 2009 a whole lot more interesting.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Not in the mood to go out for New Year's Eve? Can't afford a swank gala this year? Party guru DJ Marc Weiss shows us how to pull off a fabulous, inexpensive New Year's eve soiree at home. His tips included:

• Invites: Go digital! Evite and Facebook!

• Location: Find the friend that has the big screen TV! Watching the ball drop from Times Square is tradition especially here in NY. NYE is very close to the Super Bowl which is the biggest sale day for large flat screen TV's.

• Menu/Party Vibe: Set up little sitting areas and serve "stationary items" like dips & creative hors d 'oderves.

• Playlist: Make a playlist of the best hits of 2009! At midnight I always play a dance version of Old Lang Syne!

For more on DJ Marc Weiss, visit www.fourstarchef.com/dj.html.

Read the full story: "Key US security agencies lack permanent leaders as administration focuses on air safety".

Danny Seo, author of the Simply Green book series, presents simple, resourceful and easy ways to pack up all the holiday decorations, recycle unwanted gift wrap and bows, recycle holiday string lights, reuse delicious holiday candles and much more using everyday items you can repurpose and reuse. He offered the following tips:

• GREEN TIP #1: Recycle a dryer cleaner bag into a wreath storage solution
Many people have artificial wreaths and need to store them after the holiday season. Since an artificial wreath can get dusty very quickly and can be hard to clean, it’s important to cover them with plastic to keep them protected.

Recycle a dry cleaning plastic bag and hanger into a quick and easy storage solution: hang the wreath on the hanger, wrap in the existing plastic, tie a knot and hang on the back of a door or in a hallway closet.

Actress Rebecca Budig stopped by to talk about reprising her role as the troublemaker Greenlee Smythe on the ABC soap opera All My Children.

"Rebecca originated the role of Greenlee in 1999, and continued to play the part until 2005. She returned to the show in 2008, and left earlier this year. When last seen, Greenlee was on a motorcycle in her wedding dress, on the way to a lesbian wedding (yes, we're serious) when her best friend Kendall ran her off the road! Her body was never found," says ABC.

All My Children airs on ABC weekdays at 1pm. For more on the show, visit abc.go.com/shows/all-my-children.

The NYS Federation of Taxi Drivers (NYSFTD) will have a fleet of 10 cars responding to drivers that have had to much to drink on New Years Eve. They will take your car keys and make sure you get home safe. Theirgoal is to make sure there are no victims of drunk drivers this New Years Day in New York City.

The NYSFTD will not take reservations, nor provide transportation to those that clearly are not driving, They ask the public not to block our lines if they do not qualify. This program was made possible by NYSFTD members Dial 7 car service, Carmel car service, and New Elegante car service. We will be operational from 12 am - 5 am on New Years Day only. Calls will be accepted at the NYSFTD heard quarters 718-492-7680.

What: "Operation DDD" Don't Drink & Drive launched by the NYSFTD
When: Press Conference Wednesday December 30, 2009 @ 11:30 AM
Where: One Police Plaza in front of outside court yard

Read the full story: "Intel officials prepare initial review on what went wrong in botched airliner terror attack".

Lyss Stern and Julie Klappas authors of If You Give a Mom a Martini: 100 Ways to Find 10 Blissful Minutes for Yourself were here with ideas on ways busy moms can relax. Their tips included:

1. Sort Your Skivvies
See: "Granny" panties (the kind we are suggesting to throw away!), pretty drawer liners and sachets, a few sexy panties (the kind we are suggesting to buy).
Tip: It may not be glam, but go through your undie drawer and throw out all your grannie panites. It’ll feel great. Then in your next ten minutes, order something sexy to replenish!

Lisa G can be heard daily on Sirius Satellite Radio as part of The Howard Stern Show on Howard 100 and Howard 101. But today she's in the PIX kitchen helping us prepare some fun, frugal and festive sweet treats to ring in the new year! She showed us how to make New Year's Eve Brownies and Mini-Cheesecakes (see the recipes after the jump).

For more on Lisa G, visit www.lisag.com.

Stop smoking, eat healthier foods, exercise more often--that's right, it's time to ring in a New
Year with a new (or old) resolution. But if we keep making the same resolutions every year, are they really doing us any good?

Jen Drexler, the author of "Just Ask a Woman" and "What She's Not Telling You," stopped by the studio to speak with WPIX about resolutions. She tackles the tough questions like whether or not men or women are better at keeping their resolutions. She also gives us her take on some of the most popular resolutions: losing weight, quitting smoking, exercising more, getting organized and paying off that debt.

Jen's books are available on Amazon.com

Read the full story: "City Gears up for NYE Bash, Street Closures Announced".

According to his website Uncle Jay is Jay Gilbert, a long-time Cincinnati radio personality, and winner of the 2000 “Personality of the Year” Marconi Award.

“Uncle Jay Explains the News” was a mid-90’s early-morning TV news show that poked fun at the serious and simplified this oh-so-complicated world we live in. The 90's are over but Uncle Jay is still here to deliver the news in a sing-song style that brings out the ridiculous in both himself and the happenings of this crazy world.

For more on Uncle Jay, check out his store, his Facebook page, his Twitter or this article in the Chicago Tribune.

New Year's Eve Midnight Run
Looking for a truly unique way to celebrate New Year's Eve in New York City? Try this four-mile run through New York City's Central Park that includes a (non-alcoholic) champagne toast, fireworks, and music to ring in the New Year.

Brooklyn Bridge Walk into the New Year
Register at 10:30, walk begins at 11 PM. See New Year's Eve fireworks from Staten Island, Brooklyn, Central Park, NJ and the Empire State Building light show. Learn how the Brooklyn Bridge was built. Meeting Place: Outside Blimpie's Restaurant at 38 Park Row between Spruce and Beekman Streets across from City Hall Park. $35 if reserved in advance, $40 cash the day of.

New Years Eve in Brooklyn's Grand Army Plaza
Celebrate New Year's Eve in in Brooklyn. This New Year's Eve celebration features fireworks and the countdown to the New Year at Grand Army Plaza. Start the celebrations off around 11 p.m. with entertainment and hot refreshments at Grand Army Plaza. We can't help you keep your resolutions, but we can get you off to a dazzling start. Best locations for viewing the fireworks include: anywhere in Grand Army Plaza, inside the Park on the West Drive, and along Prospect Park West between grand Army Plaza and 9th Street. New Year's fireworks and festivities are sponsored by Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz.

Just because it's New Year's it doesn't mean it has to be champagne. Spirits expert John Henry showcases bubbly beverages for 2010 at different price ranges and tastes. From sparkling wines to non-alcoholic varieties, he'll tell you what to serve when ringing in the New Year.

The WPIX morning crew invites you to take a look back at the best moments of "Staten Island" Chuck and Jill Nicolini, we all can't wait to see what 2010 will bring!