Working Mother's first Mini Supermodel Search winner is 5-year-old Lia of Philadelphia! Lisa Mateo caught up with her and her mom, Jessica Taylor, at a her photo for Working Mother's Holiday issue.

Since her photo shoot, Lia was picked up by Generation Children's Modeling Agency.

You can see her in the November issue Working Mother Magazine which goes on sale October 26th! The complete gallery of fashion photos will be online that day as well.

With the start of the school year just days away, a public awareness campaign regarding the recently-signed Elle's Law was unveiled today.

The legislation, sponsored by New York Assembly Member Micah Kellner and State Senator Martin Malavé Dilan, was signed earlier this month by Governor David Paterson. Elle's Law strengthens state motor vehicle laws by increasing the penalty for injuring a pedestrian while driving recklessly.

The law is named for 4-year-old Elle Vandenberghe, who was struck by a driver who reversed through a crosswalk to secure a parking space in September 2009.

With almost one in four public school kids now attending a school with a dress code (the vast majority of private and charter school have a dress code), kids heading back to school are increasingly dressing up and personalizing their school uniforms with funky ties, socks, bracelets, scarves, etc., according to NYC-based French Toast, the leading supplier of school uniforms and clothes that conform to school dress codes. The private school look is becoming increasingly popular as well thanks to shows like Gossip Girl, The Suite Life and several movies.

For more looks, visit www.frenchtoast.com.

Read the full story: "Caroline Giuliani's Gets Community Service For Shoplifting."

Limiting how much time your kids spend on the computer is tough.

Now there's a new tool that makes sure they're learning something, while on the internet. It's called Get Noodles -- a new software that makes educational questions pop up every few minutes, if they answer the question wrong, they are blocked from using the computer.

A mom Shari Von Holten and her daughter Lauren were here with a computer to demonstrate how it works.

For more information, visit GetNoodles.com.

Start your engines as BET Networks, in partnership with the NASCAR, gears up for the premiere of its new docu-reality competition series, Changing Lanes, which is narrated by Ludacris.

NASCAR searches for a new generation of racers as a group of aspiring minority and female drivers will compete for a spot on a top racing team in Changin Lanes.

Driver Darrell Wallace, Jr. and the show's executive producer and CEO of Revolution Racing Max Siegel joined us to talks about the series premiere tonight, September 1 at 8pm on BET..

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

A long-time supporter of college football, Dr Pepper has joined forces with College Football Hall of Fame head coach Lou Holtz to give consumers and students the chance to win more than $1 Million in scholarships throughout the 2010 college football season.

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

On, Wednesday, September 1st, legendary coach Lou Holtz who has been a staple in college football from his playing days at Kent State to his national championship season with Notre Dame avaiable to discuss this program as well as his predictions and thoughts regarding this year’s season.

For more information, visit www.drpepper.com.

To celebrate Dunkin' Donuts 60th birthday, the company commissioned art students from eight regional art schools throughout the New York tri-state area to create original artwork inspired by Dunkin's iconic donut.

The winner of this inaugural program is Brianne Seipp, from The Barrett Art Center in Poughkeepsie, New York. Her artwork will adorn the top of the six-count donut box for the next several weeks. The artwork will be prominently featured in ALL area Dunkin' Donuts store locations, throughout the NY Tri-state area starting today.

The pieces of art will be seen on an in store window poster that commemorates the program which celebrates Dunkin' Donuts 60th birthday. Ms. Seipp's winning design will be featured on a limited-edition top of the six-count Donut box.

In honor of National Preparedness Month, President Barack Obama urges Americans to prepare a disaster plan, gather emergency supplies, and get involved in community preparedness efforts.

OEM and the Citizen Corps Council will host events throughout the city in September to teach New Yorkers about preparing for all types of emergencies. The celebration kicks off on September 2 in all five boroughs and you can stop by a kick-off event near you.

Commissioner Joseph F. Bruno stopped by to tell us all about it and what the City is doing to prepare for Hurricane Earl. For more information, visit www.nyc.gov.

Even when we have the best of intentions, something as simple as a healthy but oversize snack can make us gain weight rather than lose. But finding small ways to save just 100 calories a day can take off 10 pounds in a year. Senior Health Editor of Prevention Magazine and one of the author's of List Maker's Get-Healthy Guide Lauren Gelman was here for show us some red-flag foods and some simple strategies to keep them from undermining your weight loss efforts.

• Pre-Measured Packs: Pre-portioned 100- calorie snack packs could prompt you to eat more
• Diet Treats: Fat-free and sugar-free don't |necessarily mean low calorie
• Super-Snacks: Limit yourself to two snacks a |day, at about 150 calories each
• Rich Proteins: High-fat proteins can have twice as many calories than low-fat proteins
• Fat-Free Salad Dressings: Fat-free salad dressings often contain sugar
• Baked Potato Chips: Baked potato chips lack nutrients like fiber, which helps fill you up

Web Extra:
Liquid Calories:
A couple of cups of cappucino (each with 2 teaspoons of sugar) and a couple of cups of tea (each with 2 teaspoons of honey) add up to 150 calories in sweetner alone. Instead, make do with less sweetener or switch to zero-calorie alternative, like Splenda. Watch out for alcoholic beverages, too. Replace wine or beer with flavored club soda or sparking water, and you can save big on calories.

For more information, pick up the latest issue of Prevention Magazine.

Hurricane Earl will give us a brush tomorow and even if its not a direct hit, those high winds can cause lots of issues and headaches for homeowners. The time to prepare is right now! Home Repair Expert and radio show host of "The Money Pit" Tom Kraeutler joined us this morning to talk to us about how to get ready.

Protect Your Power: Power outages are more common that ever before so take steps to protect yours.
• Get a Generator: Prices have come way down and it's just a good idea to have one. Generators are available as a portable (prop) or as a permanently installed stand-by (see image).
• Avoid Candles, use LED Flashlights: Candles are a dangerous fire hazard as a lighting source. Much safer to use the latest flashlights (prop) which have LED bulbs that are super bright and last far longer than incandescent flashlights.
• Unplug Electronics: Protect your home's electronics against surges by unplugging TV, computers and other sensitive electronics that could be damaged by a lightning strike. Consider using surge protectors and battery back-ups too (prop).

Troublemaker of the Jersey Shore Angelina Pivarnick stopped by the studio to talk about the current season and her decision to leave the show. Angelina also dished on the drama inside the house and the pending release of her new single.

We're at the final stretch of our PIX Hip Hop Karaoke Contest. We've selected our two finalists: Jessica Silva, 23, of Hillside, New Jersey and Conrad Graham, 25, of Brooklyn. They explained to us why they feel such a commection to Jay-Z and Eminem's music.

We heard Jessica perform "Stan" by Eminem and Conrad perform "Encore" by Jay-Z.

You texted us who you thought should win the four Jay-Z/Eminem concert tickets! Congratulations to Conrad! And for second place, Jessica recieved two tickets to the concerts. Enjoy!

Just like you think about your safety at home, in the car, you need to think about your safety on the job. You spend at least a third of your day at work. You may think you know your coworkers but you really don't know what people are capable of. Sal Lifrieri was here to start a discussion on how to look out for you safety on the job.

Lifieri says the good thing about the incident at the Discovery Channel building was investigators had a wealth of information to work from. James J. Lee had demonstrated in front of the building in the past, was arrested for it, had a website up with a manifesto.

The problem that you run into in a typical workplace violence situation is that you just dont know, especially if you have an employee with a domestic violence situation at home not making it known to the employee that they are having problems, says Lifrieri. Then what can happen from this the person who the employee may have a restraining order against comes into the workplace and we now have a workplace violence situation on our hands.

This weekend, "Little Brazil" will draw a big crowd! Over a million people are expected to celebrate New York City's 26th Annual Brazilian Festival. Revelers will flock to West 46th Street (Little Brazil Street) between Sixth and Madison Avenues and New York's Sixth Avenue/Avenue of the Americas from West 43rd to West 57th Streets. And today Mixologist Elthon Figueiredo stopped by to give us a taste of Brazil!

Saturday:
Lavagem da Rua 46, which in English means The Cleansing of 46th Street, will start on Saturday, September 4 at 11 AM and will feature Brazilian singing star Margareth Menezes as featured performer. Lavagem da Rua 46" Parade will start on West 44th Street @ Sixth Avenue and travel across West 46th Street (Little Brazil Street”).

Sunday:
Brazilian Day on Sixth Avenue between 43rd and 57th Streets will feature Brazilian arts, crafts and cuisine, including acarajes (a black-eyed pea fritter), abaras and vatapa, and music. The ongoing concert runs from approximately 1 PM to 7 PM.

Mixologist Elthon Figueiredo stopped by to make some traditional Brazilian cocktails.

Actress Ashley Bell Stopped by to talk about her starring role as Nell Sweetzer In Eli Roth's new movie The Last Exorcism.

"The Reverend Cotton Marcus (Patrick Fabian) had performed more exorcisms than he could remember before he visited the Louisiana farm of Louis Sweetzer. That would be a day he wouldn't soon forget. The last person Louis Sweetzer ever thought he would invite to his farm was an exorcist. But his young daughter Nell had been acting so strange. He could think of no other explanation for her behavior than possession by demons. But many long years of attending to those with questionable spiritual infestations has left Cotton a broken man. The faith he once proudly held up as a sheild against evil had deserted him long ago.

This day has brought Reverend Marcus to the Sweetzers farm where he plans to film a documentary of what he hopes to be his final exorcism. All of his past experience could not begin to prepare him for the terror that lay within. But upon arriving at the already blood drenched family farm, it was soon clear that nothing could have prepared him for the true evil he would encounter there. The Reverend must call upon a near-empty well of faith to protect Nell, his film crew and ultimately himself," says IMDB of the film.

The Last Exorcism is in theaters now.

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. Learn the history of the parks before they became parks (examine the reservoirs, cemeteries, nature preserves, etc), NYC
2. MarMara, a Turkish restaurant, will give away their handmade grape leaves and homemade pita bread with sauce, NYC

Festivities for the annual West Indian American Day Parade have already kicked off. Dave Rodney, food critic and cultural writer, stopped in to tell us about different events going on around town. There are loads of events to keep you busy, go to www.imagesnewsletter.com for more.

Chef Alton Henry also joined our Caribbean celebration. He delivered a new twist on Caribbean cuisine. He showcased a few dishes such as:

Linstead Market Ackee & Codfish
This dish is heaven. Linstead Market Ackee is a takeoff from one of Jamaica’s best known folk songs, Linstead Market, and the ackee, a local fruit, is sautéed with tender chunks of codfish, sweet peppers and onion

Sometimes big ideas can come from little people. We found 10-year-old who came up with a clever concept combining two things his younger sisters were crazy about: the look and feel of a blanket with a stuffed animal. For more on the Happy Blankie, visit www.happyblankie.com.

Know any other cool inventions? Leave a comment here, and we may feature them on our air.

Read the full story: "Puppy taught to smoke by 'bad pet owner'."

Peak 20 was designed to meet the needs of those with very little time in the day and also for those who want a change to their traditional 60 minute workout leading to better results.

If your goal is to burn the most fat in the least amount of time, then stop doing these four "waste of time" exercises: assisted crunch on machine, abductor/adductor on a machine, bicep curl and tricep extension. Peak 20 Workout Natasha Linton recommended mountain climbers, side hops with a twist, bentover row and squat press as alternatives.

For more on Peak 20 Workout, visit www.peak20workout.com.

The US Open is back in Queens and our Ojinika Obiekwe headed down to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, to get the inside scoop on the latest tennis fashion at the tournament. Oji also checked out what's new this year and learned more about the QuickStart play format.

This year's West Indian American Day Parade has already kicked off with many fun activities and events leading up to the big parade on Labor Day. And no caribbean celebration would be complete without dancing. Dance group DANCERZBLVD stopped by to give us a taste of the entertainment we can expect at the parade.

Councilman David G. Greenfield will hold a joint press conference Tuesday, September 7th at 12pm with Jewish and Pakistani community leaders, as well as other elected officials, to highlight the need for relief in Pakistan and to encourage monetary and food donations to assist those affected by the deadly flooding in Pakistan.

“I represent part of the largest Pakistani community in America. The flooding in Pakistan is devastating and is being felt throughout the community here in the United States,” said Councilman Greenfield, who represents what is commonly referred to as “Little Pakistan”, which runs along Coney Island Avenue in the Midwood section of Brooklyn.

At the conference, Councilman Greenfield will present canned food to the Council of Peoples Organization. Additionally, Councilman Greenfield will present a check to the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee’s (JDC) Pakistan Relief Effort.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

If he's headed in your direction, you probably want to get out of the way. Former Pittsburgh Steelers halfback isn't called "The Bus" for nothing. Jerome Bettis stopped by to talk about the 2010 NFL season, the players to watch and his prediction for the Steelers. Bettis also spoke about Guinness' Pro-Challenge that he's participating in. For more information, visit www.guinness.com.

Make date night, a movie night. Film Critic Ben Lyons has teamed up with ReserveYourNight.com to offer movie and [yellow tail] Reserve pairings.

BEN’S PAIRINGS:
Date Night Movie Pick:
KRAMER vs. KRAMER and [yellow tail] Reserve Chardonnay

Are you in the mood for a date night that takes you back in time to the 1970s? Bring back that nostalgia by pairing [yellow tail] Reserve Chardonnay with one of my favorite blockbuster rentals of all time, KRAMER vs. KRAMER.

Actress Aly Michalka stopped by the studio to talk about her starring role as Marti Perkins in the new CW series Hellcats, which premieres tomorrow at 9pm on WPIX. The CW says of the show:

"Marti Perkins' plan was to get through Lancer University on her scholarship, go to law school, and leave Memphis and her hard-drinking mother behind to start a new life as an attorney. Instead, Marti's scholarship gets cancelled and her mother "forgets" to tell her. Out of options, Marti finds herself fighting for a spot on the Hellcats -- Lancer's legendary cheer squad -- and for the scholarship that comes with it.

The squad needs a new member when the beautiful Alice Verdura is injured, and Marti's fierce style, soulful moves and gymnastic elegance win her a place on the team, despite an ugly encounter with Savannah Monroe, a petite and peppy Texan who ends up being Marti's new roommate. Marti instantly hits it off with her new squad partner, the charming and extremely athletic Lewis Flynn, and their budding friendship causes alarm bells to go off for Lewis' ex, Alice, as well as Marti's long-time friend, Dan Patch.

Overseeing all the practices and personal drama is former Hellcats star and current coach Vanessa Lodge, whose job is on the line unless the squad wins the upcoming nationals. Just like Marti, Vanessa's future is riding on the Hellcats ascending to the very top of the fiercely competitive world of college cheerleading.

The series premiere of Hellcats is tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 9pm on WPIX. For more information, visit cwtv.com/shows/hellcats.

Comedienne Maragaret Cho stopped by the studio to show us her new music video "I'm Sorry" from her new album Cho Dependent, which is available in stores now. (Cho was taught how to sing by Cyndi Lauper for "I'm Sorry.")

Cho will also kick off her nationwide tour, which will have a stop in New York City, on November 5 at The Beacon Theatre and Atlantic City on October 30 at Caesar's Atlantic City-Circus Maximus.

Cho also talked about the finale of season two of Drop Dead Diva and what fans can expect for season three of the series.

For more information, visit www.margaretcho.com.

Comedian Chuck Nice stopped by to talk about his upcoming performance on Saturday, Sept. 11 at Comix. He also gave us his hilarious commentary on current events.

For tickets to his show, visit www.comixny.com.

When commercials are done correctly, they will stick in our minds. But is that a good thing? Consumer Reports checked out the claims of a few ads to see if they really deliver on their promises. Sue Perry, deputy editor of ShopSmart Magazine is here with a closer look at:

• E*Trade: "Investing with E*Trade is child's play"
• Progressive: "You name your own price for insurance"
• Freescore: "Freescore can save you money"
• JG Wentworth: "Vikings can solve a cash crunch"

For additional consumer advice, check out the September issue of ShopSmart Magazine or visit shopsmartmag.org.

Actress Ashley Tisdale stopped by the studio to talk about her starring role as Savannah Munroe in the new CW series Hellcats, which premieres tonight at 9pm on WPIX. The CW says of the show:

"Marti Perkins' plan was to get through Lancer University on her scholarship, go to law school, and leave Memphis and her hard-drinking mother behind to start a new life as an attorney. Instead, Marti's scholarship gets cancelled and her mother "forgets" to tell her. Out of options, Marti finds herself fighting for a spot on the Hellcats -- Lancer's legendary cheer squad -- and for the scholarship that comes with it.

The squad needs a new member when the beautiful Alice Verdura is injured, and Marti's fierce style, soulful moves and gymnastic elegance win her a place on the team, despite an ugly encounter with Savannah Monroe, a petite and peppy Texan who ends up being Marti's new roommate. Marti instantly hits it off with her new squad partner, the charming and extremely athletic Lewis Flynn, and their budding friendship causes alarm bells to go off for Lewis' ex, Alice, as well as Marti's long-time friend, Dan Patch.

Overseeing all the practices and personal drama is former Hellcats star and current coach Vanessa Lodge, whose job is on the line unless the squad wins the upcoming nationals. Just like Marti, Vanessa's future is riding on the Hellcats ascending to the very top of the fiercely competitive world of college cheerleading.

The series premiere of Hellcats is tonight, Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 9pm on WPIX. For more information, visit cwtv.com/shows/hellcats.

Action star Maggie Q stopped by to talk about her title role in the new CW seires Nikita, which premieres on September 9 at 9pm on WPIX. The CW says of the show:

When she was a deeply troubled teenager, Nikita (Maggie Q, "Live Free or Die Hard," "Mission Impossible 3") was rescued from death row by a secret U.S. agency known only as Division, who faked her execution and told her she was being given a second chance to start a new life and serve her country. What they didn't tell her was that she was being trained as a spy and assassin. Throughout her grueling training at Division, Nikita never lost her humanity, even falling in love with a civilian. When her fiancé was murdered, Nikita realized she had been betrayed and her dreams shattered by the only people she thought she could trust, so she did what no one else before her had been able to do: she escaped. Now, after three years in hiding, Nikita is seeking retribution and making it clear to her former bosses that she will stop at nothing to expose and destroy their covert operation.

Catch the series premiere of Nikita tomorrow night at 9pm on WPIX. For more information, visit cwtv.com/Nikita.

The 2011 Old Farmer’s Almanac , released on Tuesday, is the oldest continuously published periodical in North America. The release of the Almanac is eagerly anticipated for its eternally entertaining and useful advice and articles as well as its famous, 80% accurate weather forecasts. Jud Hale, Editor of The 2011 Old Farmer’s Almanac, stopped by our studio to discuss it all.

This year’s Almanac continues the tradition of delivering accurate seasonal forecasts, useful day-to-day advice, and well-written articles—peppered with just the right amount of humor—in a form that is pleasant and easy to digest.

The 2011 Old Farmer’s Almanac is available now.

For two decades and counting, comedienne and actress Sheryl Underwood has made a name for herself in the standup circuit and for this comedic great, nothing is off limits, even if it means poking fun at herself.

Underwood stopped by to talk about her upcoming performances at Carolines on Broadway tonight through Sunday and taking over hosting duties for Martin Lawrence Presents 1st Amendment Stand-Up, which premieres tomorrow night on Starz.

With summer almost over the PIX Morning News is now dedicated to help you get in shape.
Today we are launching the "Eat Better Challenge" in 11 weeks. During this time, we'll show you how to achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Dr. Louis Aronne, director of New York Hospital's Comprehensive Weight Control Center, stopped by to talk about the challenge. The Comprehensive Weight Control Center is where he has helped thousands of people achieve healthier lifestyles and slimmer, trimmer bodies. Dr. Aronne is also the author of the book The Skinny On Losing Weight Without Being Hungry: The Ultimate Guide to Weight Loss Success.

Click here to join the Eat Better Challenge. You can also text "subway" to 77944 for weekly "Eat Better" principles sent straight to your phone.

Former New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer has traded in his football cleats for a pair of running shoes. The Super Bowl Champion and Giants' all-time receiving leader will become the first gridiron great in more than 15 years to lace up for a marathon, when he competes in this year's ING New York City Marathon as a member of Team Timex.

Always known for his tireless work ethic and workout regimen, Toomer intends not to disappoint in this next chapter of his athletic life. To add an extra incentive, TIMEX has arranged for Toomer to start the race in last place, and will donate $1 to New York Road Runners Youth Programs for every runner that he passes on his way to the finish line.

Toomer is training with Timex Multisport Team athlete Chris Thomas. He is also training with The Timex Ironman Global Trainer Bodylink System, Timex's latest GPS enabled training instrument that will allow him to track his progress and ultimately reach his ideal pace.

After a summer of casual work wear, it's time to get serious again about your style at work. You don't need to spend a lot to look chic and professional. Style expert Liza Bychkov is here with more.

RACHEL: Sophisticated SuitingLook by Pippa available at Bloomingdale's
Madison Stretch Pant ($128), Blazer ($168), Island Silk Belle Sleeve Top ($98), Treesje Smoke Red Bag, Jules Smith Silver Studs ($95), Bangles ($135)

SAMANTHA: Little Black Dress
Dress by French Connection ($198), Treesje Bag, Jules Smith Jewelry ($95)

Read the full story: "LI Based Website Allows Students To Bet On Grades."

If you live in the PSE&G or JCP&L service areas your mailbox has probably been stuffed this week with mailers from companies trying to sell you cheaper electricity than you are getting from your utility.

Based on questions from readers, a lot of people are confused about these offers. Here are some quick answers to help you find your way through the sales pitches.

Q. Who are these companies like Constellation Energy, Dominion Energy, Gateway Energy, Green Mountain Energy, South Jersey Energy, Verde Energy and Viridian Energy?
A. These are energy resellers, who along with a handful of brokers and marketers, are licensed by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities to buy power on the wholesale market and sell it directly to consumers.

Jonathan Cheban and Simon Huck stopped by to talk about starring of the new show The Spin Crowd, which airs on E! on Sundays at 9:30p.m. E! says of their series:

Nobody knows how to make stars shine brighter or fan the flames of celebrity more than a Hollywood publicist, but the job comes with its fair share of drama too. From red carpet meltdowns to nightmare event logistics and behind-the-scenes blow ups, PR guru Jonathan Cheban has seen it all. Now, he's taking his New York-based business bicoastal and aims to conquer the Hollywood celebrity scene, assisted by his affable lieutenant Simon Huck and the group of publicists that make up Command PR. All the excitement, fun and foibles of life on the Red Carpet are played out in this new reality series.

The Spin Crowd airs Sundays at 9:30 p.m. on E! For more information, visit www.eonline.com.

Actor Connor Paolo stopped by the studio to talk about his role as Eric van der Woodsen in the CW series Gossip Girl. The network says of this season:

High society and low blows are back as GOSSIP GIRL, a one-hour drama about the scandalous lives of Manhattan's elite, returns for its much-anticipated fourth season. Season three ended with a BANG! as a heartbroken Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick) lay bleeding in the streets of Prague while Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester) and a newly-single Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively) jetted off to Paris for a fabulous summer abroad.

Meanwhile, Nate Archibald (Chace Crawford), fresh off his painful breakup with Serena, decided to take a page out of Chuck's playboy playbook just as Dan Humphrey (Penn Badgley) discovered he was going to have to settle down and be a father... to Georgina Sparks' (Michelle Trachtenberg) baby!

Season four will open with a radiant Serena and Blair enjoying their grand and romantic summer in Paris... until Chuck mysteriously arrives in town with a new girlfriend and a new identity! Blair swore off Chuck forever but will this changed man woo Blair into having a change of heart, or will Queen B set her sights on ruling Columbia University? And as for that baby?...

Gossip Girl premieres Monday, Sept. 13 at 9pm on WPIX.

WWE wrestler-turned-actor, John Cena stopped by to talk about starring in the new movie Legendary, which opens in theaters on Friday. He co-stars longside Patricia Clarkson, Devon Graye, Danny Glover, Tyler Posey, Madeline Martin and John Posey.

Written by John Posey and directed by Mel Damski, Legendary explores a teenage boy’s drive to reunite his family 10 years after the death of their beloved father, a state collegiate wrestling legend.

Cal Chetley (Devon Graye), a bright, undersized 15-year-old is an outsider in the blue collar town of Sallisaw, Oklahoma known for its high school wrestling program. His older brother Mike (John Cena), a one-time high school champion with whom Cal is estranged, left Cal and his mother Sharon (Patricia Clarkson) behind years ago after the tragic car accident that killed their father. Sharon is grieving the loss of her husband while struggling with an estranged, older son and her bright, socially isolated younger one, the latter of whom is determined to put his family back together.

Ety Rybak, co-founder of Inside Sports & Entertainment Group, stopped by to talk about the hottest tickets in town! He also helped us give away two tickets to a Lady Antebellum concert.

Inside Sports & Entertainment Group is offering the following tickets for under face value: Marc Anthony, Vampire Weekend, Alice in Chains, the NHL and NBA preseasons.

Inside Sports & Entertainment Group gave away two tickets to the Lady Antebellum concert. The winner was Kathleen from West Creek, New Jersey. Click here to read the rules.

Why do some people thrive under pressure and others crumble? That's the topic in a new book titled Clutch by author of the book New York Times columnist Paul Sullivan.

He identifies people who are "clutch"--who excel in difficult, stressful situations--across a range of professions and determines what personal qualities keep their performance consistent even when times get tough. Sullivan, a self-professed lifelong "choker," examines the handful of telling characteristics: focus, discipline, adaptability, the ability to be fully in the present, and being driven--not thwarted--by fear and desire. In-depth examples of clutch individuals include actor Larry Clarke; attorney David Boies; business writer Mark Stevens; and Willie Copeland, a military team leader who was awarded the Navy Cross.

Sullivan provides valuable insight into star players and companies who choke under pressure and why (the culprits: an inability to accept responsibility and a tendency to overthink and be overconfident). Perceptive and original, Sullivan's account holds sound advice for everyone--athletes, politicians, and business people--looking to amplify their performance under any circumstances.

Clutch: Why Some People Excel Under Pressure and Others Don't is in bookstores and online now.

Andrew Jenks has a new MTV show World of Jenks premiering September 13th at 10pm on MTV (and will air right after the VMA's). He has already won multiple awards as a documentarian and he is only 24.

The show follows Andrew as he shadows a complete stranger in each episode. He focuses on one person's story, lives with them for eight days and documents it-from a mixed martial arts to a platinum-selling recording artist to a young homeless woman.

For Andrew Jenks' first film, HBO's Room 335, he moved into an assisted-living facility and stayed for over a month. Jenks' second film, The Zen of Bobby V had him spending seven months in Japan filming American baseball manager Bobby Valentine as he managed the Chiba Lotte Marines. Praised by film critics around the world, the film premiered at the 2008 Tribeca Film Festival.

For more information visit www.mtv.com.

Need an excuse to shop? It's fashion's night out! The global initiative, created to celebrate fashion and boost the industry's economy. Fashion Guy Lawrence Zarian gave us the stylish scoop.

• Shorts with Tights
Shorts and tights should be like colors to elongate frame

• Masculine Pieces
Pair masculine pieces with timeless denim for modern look

• Military-Inspired
Add feminine touch to military-inspired pieces to balance look

• Animal Prints
Pair animal print with feminine |piece for look of old Hollywood

You can catch Lawrence tonight at the Macys on Staten Island from 6pm to 8pm. He'll be showcasing more of the season's hot trends and be on hand to help you shop!

Actress Alison Brie stopped by to talk about starring on the NBC show Community as Annie Edison and AMC show Mad Men as Trudy Campbell. She also spoke about her upcoming film Scream 4.

Community airs Thursdays at 8pm on NBC and its season premiere is September 23. Man Men airs Sundays at 10pm on AMC.

Designer Charlotte Ronson showcases her line I HEART RONSON which is available exclusively at JCPenney. Actress Alison Brie from TV show "Community" joined in the festivities as a special guest model.

Ronson also revealed what sh'e doing for the second annual Fashion's Night Out event. Tonight from 7:30 - 9:30 at JCPenney on 33rd and 6th Avenue, she will be hanging out with GOSSIP GIRL'S Michelle Trachtenberg at the store. There will be cupcake decorating and much more. Plus, Charlotte's sister Samantha will dejay at the event.

Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus talked to us via satellite about her popular sitcom The New Adventures of Old Christine and its new home in syndication at PIX.

You can catch the show weekdays 5pm and 5:30pm and Sunday at 7pm and 7:30pm on PIX.

Actress Odette Yustman stopped by the show to talk about her role as Joanna in the new movie You Again, in which she costars alongside Kristen Bell, Jamie Lee Curtis, Sigourney Weaver and Betty White.

"When a young woman (Bell) realizes her brother is about to marry the girl who bullied her in high school (Yustman), she sets out to expose the fiancée's true colors," says IMDB of the movie.

You Again debuts in theaters on September 24.

With fall sports in full swing, parents are busy driving their children to and from practice, but taking a few precautionary steps that can help prevent the spread of MRSA may be the most important practice of all.

Skin infections like MRSA, which spread through skin to skin contact as well as contact with equipment and shared items, are the cause of 56 percent of all outbreaks of infectious diseases in competitive sports in the U.S.- but simple measures parents can take can help prevent the spread.

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a potentially life-threatening antibiotic resistant Staph infection that has increasingly been found in community and youth sports settings.

The Stop MRSA Now Coalition in partnership with The Clorox Company and SwapMeSports.com, has teamed up with Grant Hill to launch Equip Them Well, a program to help teach families and sports teams about practical MRSA prevention steps, such as washing hands and disinfecting equipment with a bleach solution.

Like so many others who have been affected by the threat of MRSA, seven-time NBA all-star Grant Hill understands the importance of prevention, both in the locker room and on the court. You can also donate used sports equipment and score a chance to meet Grant Hill.

Actor Michael Raymond-James stopped by the studio to talk about his starring role in the new F/X series Terriers, which just premiered last Wednesday. Fans may also remember him from True Blood, as he played Rene Lenier, the killer on the first season.

Says F/X of the show: "Terriers is a comedic drama centering on “Hank Dolworth” (Donal Logue), an ex-cop, who partners with his best friend “Britt Pollack” (Raymond-James) in an unlicensed private investigation business. Comedic, edgy, original, a show about high stakes in the face of low expectations, Terriers explores what it’s like in today's America to be 'too small to fail.'"

Terriers airs Wednesdays at 10pm on F/X.

It's an old school workout, for a new school body! Called "Recess," it's designed to take us back to our days on the playground. Here to show us how exercise can be fun, is Justin Jones of New York Health & Racquet Club.

"Recess" is offered exclusively at New York Health & Racquet Club. For a class schedule, visit nyhrc.com.

Actress Jessica Lowndes stopped by to talk about her role as Adrianna Tate-Duncan and the third season premiere of 90210, which airs tonight on WPIX. Says the CW of the show:

The third season of "90210" welcomes the West Beverly kids to their senior year of high school. It's the time of college acceptances and lovers' rejections, the time of prom dates and promises betrayed, the time of spring break, break-ups and make-ups - but as is always the case in Beverly Hills, it all happens in a world of sun and fun, palm trees and warm sea breezes, success and excess.

From the very beginning of the school year, the lives of the West Beverly group will be shaken up in a way none of them could ever imagine. And from this new starting point, their journeys will take them to staggering new heights and terrifying new depths. We'll see the rise of a pop sensation and the fall of a group of friends, the beginning of a new love and the end of a professional dream, the creation of an unlikely family and the demise of another. And that's just the first week of school... It's now or never for the students of West Beverly, and they're not going to waste a moment of time.

Expectations are high, hormones are raging, and scandals are hiding around every corner. From the brightest moments of love and happiness to the darkest hours of shame and fear, senior year at West Beverly promises to be an unforgettable journey into the lives, hopes and dreams of those lucky few who call "90210" home.

90210 airs tonight at 8pm on WPIX.

VH1 network personality La La Vazquez stopped by to talk about her new reality series La La's Full Court Wedding that documents her marriage to NBA star Carmelo Anthony.

Says VH1 of the show, "After dating for seven years, being engaged for five, and raising a 3 1/2 year old son, these two are finally ready to tie the knot. La La must navigate through a whirlwind of wedding tasks by choosing between a band and a DJ, losing weight to fit into her gown, deciding who will walk her down the aisle, getting the advice of friend and fellow celeb Tyrese, and even trying balancing the budget with her fiance's desire for an over-the-top blowout! With so much to get done before the big day, will La La be able to handle it all?"

La La's Full Court Wedding will premiere on Sunday, September 19 at 10:30pm. For more information on La La, visit www.iamlala.com.

From his days as a youth in rural Texas to his brilliant football career with the New York Jets to his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987, talented wide receiver Don Maynard's love of football is what made him a legend. In his new book You Can’t Catch Sunshine, Maynard writes of his treasured time as a football player in the NFL, AFL and CFL and most notably, his role in getting to and eventually pulling off the most unlikely upset in football

The former Jets wide receiver Don Maynard, a self-described laid-back speedster from a dusty corner of Texas, also talks about his unlikely friendship with a brash, young quarterback named Joe Namath resulted in the most unlikely upset in football history: Super Bowl III.

Fans will have a chance to meet Hall of Famer and former New York Jets wide receiver Don Maynard at three book signings in the area:

Back to school lunches can quickly turn into an expensive disaster, spending $10 a day on greasy and unsatisfying foods. Yahoo Shine's healthy living editor Mira Jacob has pulled $15 worth of groceries and created five deliciously diverse lunches that any kid (or adult for that matter) would like to eat.

SHOPPING LIST
Apple, tomato, orange, lemon, hummus, peanut butter, cream cheese, turkey, carrots, yogurt, pita

MONDAY
Main: Pita with herbed cream cheese and turkey
Snack: carrots and hummus for dipping
Drink: lemon and orange (1/2) infused water

Dannielle Kyrillos, DailyCandy.com's editor-at-large and the brand new judge of Bravo's highly anticipated new show Top Chef: Just Desserts hosted by Gail Simmons premiering on Wednesday, September 15th at 11pm (then moving into its regular timeslot of 10pm on Wednesday, September 22nd).

TCJD judges panel is rounded out by head judge Johnny Iuzzini, one of the country's most celebrated and innovative pastry chefs and Executive Pastry Chef at Restaurant Jean Georges and Hubert Keller, critically acclaimed chef as well as guest judge on Top Chef and finalist on Top Chef Masters. Pastry chefs will see if they have what it takes to out flambé, out frost and out fudge the competition.

Dannielle highlighted the most unique dessert and entertaining trends happening all around New York City.

90210's Lori Loughlin stopped by to talk about her and Bobby Flay teaming up with Hellmann's this busy back-to-school season to help feed families food made with real, simple ingredients.

Lori is also helping celebrate back-to-school with a virtual version of a beloved school-lunch ritual: swapping sandwiches. She showed us the easy recipe for Bobby Flay's Chicken Gyro (see the recipe after the jump).

Visit Facebook.com/Hellmanns to create a virtual sandwich! For every sandwich built, Hellmann's® will make a donation to Share Our Strength® and, when you share a sandwich with a friend, an additional donation will be made, which both will go toward the maximum $75,000 donation from Hellmann's® to Share Our Strength®.

You can catch an all new episode of 90210 Monday nights at 8pm on WPIX.

This real housewife of New York, Ramona Singer is truly the real deal when it comes to fashion. She's now about to debut her second jewelry collection on HSN and she stopped by to give us a sneak peek at her second jewelry line that'll have you dazzling in different hues.

GOLD STORY
- Gold Vermiel with Honey and Amber Citrines and Diamonds
- Gold Vermiel with Honey and Amber Citrines Ring
- Matching Gold Vermeil Double Drop Earrings and Necklace with Honey and Amber Citrines

It's tasty dishes draw upon Malay, Chinese and Indian influences. Last night, the Meatpacking District was transformed into Little Malaysia with decorated with colorful tents and lanterns for Malaysian Night Market. The aroma of curry and coconut milk filled the air as traditional dancers performed in the open-air market.

Lisa Mateo was there for a taste of some of the traditional dishes. She also spoke to Wan Latiff of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corp.

For a complete list of the participating restaurants, visit www.malaysiakitchennyc.com.

Chunky knits, camel coats, rocker chic. They're the hottest fall fashions for dogs! Nick Spadea of PETCO and Katie Kauss of PEOPLEPets.com were here to explain the lastest fashion trends for man's best friend.

PETCO and PEOPLEPets.com are hosting their Look Good While Doing Good fashion event on Thursday, Sep. 16th from 4-8pm at PETCO Union Square location (860 Broadway). Guests are invited to walk the green carpet, have their photo taken and receive a preview of four-legged fall fashion. PETCO is trying to raise $1 million for National Guide Dog Month. Guests are invited to donate at the event and during the entire month of September at all PETCO locations.

And if you're interested in adopting any of the dogs featured in today's segment, visit Animal Haven.

CHIHUAHUA - BEBE
Pup Crew gray sleeveless chunky knit dog sweater, $14.99
Chunky knits are huge this fall for human and pet fashionistas! It's the trendiest & most comfortable way to stay warm and cozy this season. BeBe is wearing a gray chunky turtleneck sweater -- neutral tones like this gray are also in for fall. Notice that it's sleeveless so still gives BeBe enough room to walk comfortably, but the wool will keep her warm. The two brown buttons attached at the base of the turtleneck are adorable details, but can be removed for extra warmth.

Did you know it takes about 30 seconds for lice to spread from one person to another? Prevention is better than cure and Cozy Friedman, owner of Cozy Cuts For Kids, was here with ways to prevent your kids from getting lice.

How To Prevent Catching Lice
- Do NOT wash your child's hair everyday.
- When you do shampoo, use a safe, natural anti-lice formula.
- Teach your child to never share brushes, hats, helmets, scarves, etc.
- Check your child's hair frequently for lice

How To Check For Lice
- Part hair in straight line down the back of the head to view scalp.
- Check for Nits (Nits are tiny white/gray colored eggs)
- Remember to check behind ears.

How To Treat Lice
- Don't panic & Call your pediatrician.
- Clean all brushes & combs
- Apply a few drops of olive oil to child's scalp and hair
- Be sure to check everyone in the household.
- Notify school Nurse

For all of Cozy's tips on lice prevention and more info about Cozy Cuts For Kids, visit www.cozyscutsforkids.com.

Jack Goes Boating is the directorial debut of Philip Seymour Hoffman starring Hoffman alongside Amy Ryan, John Ortiz and Daphne Rubin-Vega. Says Apple iTunes of the movie:

Jack (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Connie (Amy Ryan) are two single people who on their own might continue to recede into the anonymous background of the city, but in each other begin to find the courage and desire to pursue their budding relationship. In contrast, the couple that introduced them, Clyde (John Ortiz) and Lucy (Daphne Rubin–Vega), are confronting unresolved issues in their marriage. Continue reading John Ortiz and Daphne Rubin-Vega Talk About 'Jack Goes Boating' »

Now is your chance to see the funniest comedians from New York and beyond.

After successfully selling out six consecutive shows last year, The “Top Dogs of Comedy” will be doing it again performing live in NYC this weekend, September 16-19, at the legendary Caroline’s on Broadway.

The “TOP DOGS OF COMEDY” heat up the stage with their sharp, innovative, no-holds-barred brand of humor. The comedy powerhouses, ‘Gangster of Comedy’ Capone, Corey Holcomb, Wil Sylvince and Mark Viera have redefined comedy with their distinct styles and creative humor. The ‘Top Dogs’ go beyond the typical performance, with a never seen before exhibit of improvisation, theater and stand-up, all on one stage.

Tickets for the show are available at Caroline’s Ticketmaster (212) 757-4100 and on http://www.carolines.com. This is a show you don’t want to miss. It's guaranteed to sell out, so act not

Actress Tiffani Thiessen stopped by to talk about her role as Elizabeth in the hit show on the USA Network's White Collar. She is also working with Crest to declare September as "National Gingivitis Awareness Month," in conjunction with the launch of Pro-Health® Clinical Gum Protection Toothpaste.

Thiessen discussed the importance of dental health and to raise awareness of the fact that gingivitis affects more than 50% of the population. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious forms of gum disease and tooth loss in adults.

She will be heading to New York 's Greeley Square to attend an event to kick-off National Gingivitis Awareness Month tomorrow. Attendees will be able to join Crest and Thiessen in pledging their support for Gingivitis Awareness Month by posting a pledge to improve their oral health on a Pledge Wall.

For more on Crest, visit CrestProHealth.com.

Comedian Kevin Hart stopped by to talk about kicking off his national comedy tour

Hart's comedy special Seriously Funny is also available in stores now and has gone platinum, and jumped to most purchased stand-up comedy DVD on Amazon.com and was rated the No. 1 comedy special on Comedy Central for 2010.

In addition, Hart is currently filming the comedy 35 and Ticking in which he will star with Meagan Good and Mike Epps.

For more on Hart, visit www.khartonline.com.

It's fiesta time! It's Mexico's bicentennial. To help celebrate it's 200 years of independence, on behalf of US Importers of Avocados from Mexico, Roberto Santibanez, an award-winning chef and Mexico City native, and owner of Fonda in Brooklyn, stopped by with some recipes from South of the Border.

There are many historic landmarks throughout the presidency of Abraham Lincoln; the Gettysburg Address, first debate with Stephen A. Douglas and the Emancipation Proclamation. And as the Proclamation is set for its 140-year anniversary, who better to help celebrate than award-winning actor Sam Waterston; a celebration that includes volunteers from nearby hotels, donating their time to help clean, paint and restore Lincoln’s Cottage.

Waterston is perhaps best known for his role as district attorney Jack McCoy on the hit television series Law & Order, but he certainly knows the nation’s 16th President well. Waterston has portrayed Lincoln on stage and screen (The Civil War, Gore Vidal's Lincoln, "Abe Lincoln in Illinois" on Broadway, voiced Lincoln in an exhibit at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, and delivered Lincoln's Cooper Union speech on May 5, 2004.) Waterston also served on the Advisory Committee for the Lincoln Bicentennial, celebrating Abraham Lincoln's 200th birthday.

Waterson spoke to us via satellite from Lincoln’s Cottage, as he and historian Chris Epting celebrate all that Lincoln meant to America, along with 10-years of the Hampton Hotel’s Save-a-Landmark program, which has helped preserve more than 50 historical, fun and cultural landmarks along our nation’s highways!

Terrence Howard stopped by the studio to announce that he and Taraji Henson are back for the second year in a row as hosts of the Soul Train Awards airing on Centric. He also judged a PIX soul train dance-off in the studio. Howard also talked to us about starring in the new NBC show Law & Order: Los Angeles.

The Soul Train Awards will air on Sunday, November 28 on Centric and Law & Order: Los Angeles makes its series premiere on September 29th on NBC.

Food Network Chef Marcela Valladolid stopped by to help us celebrate Mexican Independence Day with cocktail pairings. She's all about "Mexican made easy" and tequila served simply.

Marcela talked to us about teaming up with Sauza Tequila and showed us how to make Citrus Cooler Margarita and Grapefruit Margarita.

For more information, visit SauzaTequila.com.

Lisa Mateo was live at the Citibabes location in SoHo. It's a family membership club that's offering free family fitness classes every Wednesday in September at this SoHo location in honor of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.

Lisa with with families learning fitness moves, and she spoke to a nutritionist about how families can eat healthy together.

For more information, visit www.citibabes.com.

R&B singer Jay Sean was here to promote his new single "2012."

Jay Sean has also partnered up with an organization called Keep A Child Alive (KCA), which is found by Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys and humanitarian Leigh Black to provide AIDS treatment, care & support to children and families affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa and India.

To download "2012" and find out more about Jay Sean, visit www.jayseanworldwide.com.

Catherine Ommanney of the Real Housewives of D.C. stopped by to talk about the new reality show

The Real Housewives of D.C. introduces five intriguing women whose relationships with each other, and with the city in which they live, are a compelling combination to explore the nexus of politics, society, and even race, as well as how the proximity to political power dictates where one fits within Beltway society.

These connected D.C. power players all have their pulse on the most important cultural events, political galas, gallery openings, and fundraisers in Washington society. They are: Mary Schmidt Amons, the true Washingtonian and granddaughter of radio and TV personality Arthur Godfrey; the mother hen and owner of D.C.'s top modeling agency, Lynda Erkiletian; feisty Brit Catherine Ommanney, married to a White House photographer; model and founder of D.C.'s America's Polo Cup, Michaele Salahi who became the focus of media attention following the White House state dinner last November; and Harvard grad, active political fund raiser, and philanthropist Stacie Scott Turner.

During this past Super Bowl, Doritos ran three commercials made by amateurs for its Crash the Super Bowl Contest. Two unemployed brothers won the $ 1 million grand prize and the search is on again this year.

Actress Betty White joined us live from Los Angeles with more on how to enter the competition.

To enter this year's Crash the Super Bowl Contest for a chance $5 million, visit www.crashthesuperbowl.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. Mari Vana is giving away free Blinis on Tuesday to viewers that mention "PIX", NYC

Filmmakers and stars of new movie Catfish Nev Schulman, Rel Schulman and Henry Joost stopped by the studio to talk about the film.

In late 2007, filmmakers Ariel and Henry sensed a story unfolding as they began to film the life of Ariel’s brother, Nev. They had no idea that their project would lead to the most exhilarating and unsettling months of their lives. A reality thriller that is a shocking product of our times, Catfish is a riveting story of love, deception and grace within a labyrinth of online intrigue.

Catfish is in select theaters Friday and .

The Traveling Guitar Foundation's mission is to provide assistance and support to instrumental music programs in our communities' schools, helping to ensure that elementary and high school students have access to music education and musical instrument instruction throughout their educational journey.

They accomplish our mission in two ways: first, travel to a school whose music program is in need and put on a music educational clinic, working directly with the children by providing musical instruction, performance, and discussion on a wide variety of topics related to music, instruments, and music education.

Secondly, they donate guitar kits and other instruments directly to the schools to supplement their music programs, helping to alleviate the financial burdens and budgetary constraints that prevent schools from maintaining sustainable musical education programs.

Our goal is to inspire and educate children through music by ensuring that these music programs are always available to them.

For more information, visit www.travelingguitarfoundation.org.

Jack Goes Boating is the directorial debut of Philip Seymour Hoffman starring Hoffman alongside Amy Ryan, John Ortiz and Daphne Rubin-Vega. Says Apple iTunes of the movie:

Jack (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Connie (Amy Ryan) are two single people who on their own might continue to recede into the anonymous background of the city, but in each other begin to find the courage and desire to pursue their budding relationship. In contrast, the couple that introduced them, Clyde (John Ortiz) and Lucy (Daphne Rubin–Vega), are confronting unresolved issues in their marriage. Continue reading Philip Seymour Hoffman Makes Directorial Debut In 'Jack Goes Boating' »

Melania Trump launches her second collection September 17th. She stopped by to show us some signature pieces. The best thing about her jewelry: the entire collection retails for under $200.

For more information, visit www.qvc.com.

This week's Friday Forecasters were 9-year-old Nicole and 12-year-old Tommy Antoniello. They're brother and sister and their mother won the Friday Forecaster spot in an auction for Women's Cancer Benefit in Colts Neck, New Jersey.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Actor DB Sweeney stopped by to talk to us about his film Two Tickets To Paradise, in which he wrote, directed, produced and starred.

He explained his inspiration for making the film was to portray "real guys" on the big screen. "Two Tickets to Paradise" tells the story of three childhood friends on the verge of turning 40, realizing their lives are quite where they expected them to be.

It's a reunion for D.B. Sweeney and actress Moira Kelly. The two made on-screen magic in the classic flick "The Cutting Edge." This time around Kelly portrays his wife..

For more on Two Tickets To Paradise, visit www.twoticketstoparadisemovie.com.

Hollywood A-lister Ed Norton dropped in the studio this morning to talk about his newest film Leaves Of Grass, which opened on Friday.

Leaves Of Grass follows a twisting narrative path merging crime drama, drug comedy, classical philosophy and sudden violence in pursuit of answering one of humanity's oldest questions: What does it truly mean to live a happy and constructive life?

When Ivy League classics professor Bill Kincaid receives news of the murder of his estranged identical twin brother, Brady (both played by Norton), in a pot deal gone bad, he leaves the world of Northeastern academia to travel back to his home state of Oklahoma. Upon arrival, he finds that reports of his brother's death are greatly exaggerated, and he's soon caught up in the dangerous and unpredictable world of drug commerce in the backwaters of the Southwest.

Ron Darling was a star pitcher for the Mets in the 1980s and won a World Series. Today, he is the Mets color commentator on WPIX and SNY, and also works on TBS’s national baseball coverage.

With baseball season at its peak, Darling stopped by to talk about upcoming playoffs and what has transpired all season with the New York teams.

TBS will be taking over the Grand Central-Times Square shuttle train on Sept. 20 and Darling, Cal Ripken and former Yankee David Wells will make an appearance at 11am to announce the marketing campaign for TBS’s MLB post season coverage. Two trains will be branded and wrapped in baseball images.

TBS’s exclusive coverage of the Division Series starting Oct. 6, followed by the ALCS on Oct. 15.

For more information, visit www.tbs.com.

Inside Edition now airs weekdays at 3pm on PIX11. The show's Emmy Award-winning host Deborah Norville stopped by to talk to us about his week's story line-up, which includes bike theft and bed bugs.

For more Information, visit www.insideedition.com.

The Adrienne Shelly Foundation, named after Andy Ostroy’s late wife (actor/writer/director of Waitress) who was murdered in 2006, has a simple mission of supporting women filmmakers.

The Foundation is hosting its 3rd annual eBay auction which launches today, September 20th and runs for 10 days. There are over 50 exciting celebrity items like exclusive lunches with Jon Hamm, Paul Rudd, Cheryl Hines, Michelle Williams, Jane Lynch, Rosario Dawson, Patricia Clarkson, Kevin Smith, Mark Cuban, Rosanna Arquette, Rachel Harris, Diablo Cody and many others; set visits/meet and greets to The Good Wife, Castle, Breaking Bad, United States of Tara, Rachel Maddow Show and others; walk-ons in Hung and Community and in producer Ted Hope's next film; and VIP tickets w/meet and greets to Joan Rivers, Maroon 5, Dar William, "Celebrity Autobiography" etc.

To learn more about The Adrienne Shelly Foundation, go to www.adrienneshellyfoundation.org.

Physique 57 is kicking off a 10-city tour on September 20th with Biore.

They are teaming up to offer free classes at their NYC studio today, where women can sign up to experience a dynamic exercise method designed to rapidly transform their body, and inform them on how to reduce your chances of getting post-workout blemishes.

Co-founder and head instructor Tanya Becker will come in studio to show us a few moves and talk about the event.

For more information, visit www.physique57.com.

Not only is Judge Karen's Courtlaunching, but Random House is publishing Stay In Your Lane: Judge Karen's Guide To Living Your Best Life, a motivational and inspirational book filled with Judge Karen's wisdom about life learned from her many years in the courtroom and the legal system.

Fans of Judge Karen know the phrase “Stay in Your Lane” is one of her favorite admonishments. She believes that within us all sits the moral compass to find our direction when we are lost. She has seen many broken people pass through her courtroom who operate from a place of fear and distrust. Here she offers sound advice on how to move past the hand we may have been dealt, dispel our feeling of victimization, and turn our lives around. Her no-nonsense talk will give you a push in the right direction—mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Today, technology and and its influence on societies around the world are the center of a documentary-style photo exhibit at Grand Central Terminal. The "Ericsson Technology for Good" three-day exhibit shows how communications technology is helping the United Nations Millenium Development Goals reduce extreme poverty by half, through access to health and educational opportunities.

The photos highlight villages in Africa, South America, India and the Caribbean.The showing coincides with the annual week-long meeting of the United Nations General Assembly, which marks the 10-year anniversary of the creation of the Millennium Development Goals.
The "Ericsson Technology for Good" photo exhibit will be on display at Grand Central Terminal's Vanderbilt Hall through Wednesday, September 22nd.

For more information on Ericsson, log onto ericsson.com.

Written by Lisa Mateo

It is the first day of fall and believe it or not, but we’re checking out toys.

The folks at Toys“R”Us unveiled its annual Holiday Hot Toy List, filled with 36 items that are new this year. The toy retailer spends the year testing and tracking new product introductions from around the world to identify the best-of-the-best items to include on its annual list. Each of the items on the 2010 Toys“R”Us Holiday Hot Toy List represents a combination of quality and value.

All items on the list are available at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide and online at Toysrus.com/HotToys.

Gadget Guy Steve Greenberg, author of Gadget Nation, stopped by with some cool gizmos for your home.

• Handstands' UV Sanitizing Wand - To kill microbes on countertops, on bedsheets, airplane, office, hotel, anywhere, $34.99 (shipping is always $2.95 no matter how big or small the item)

• io Safe Solo is the "world's toughest hard drive" - Nearly indestructible, its fireproof and waterproof and includes FREE data recovery. 500 gigabites to 2 terrabites -starts at $135

• Panasonic's Link-To-Cell Cordless Handset - It can receive and send calls from your landline AND with its Bluetooth link-it can receive and send calls from your cell phone. www.panasonic.com/phonestuff, $100

Sharon Blynn, the founder of Bald Is Beautiful and host of the new WLIW documentary The Whisper: The Silent Crisis of Ovarian Cancer stopped by to talk about ovarian cancer and her successful fight against cancer in honor of September's National Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.

For more on Bald Is Beautiful, visit baldisbeautiful.org. For more on The Whisper: The Silent Crisis of Ovarian Cancer, visit www.facebook.com.

Model Selita Ebanks was here to talk about foster care in America and how New Yorkers For Children (NYFC) is creating and funding vital programs to help improve the lives of these youths.

NYFC is a leading non-profit organization partnering with the Administration for Children's Services to make a difference in New York City. They're now gearing up for the 11th annual Fall Gala to take place on September 21st at Cipriani 42, their major fundraising and star studded event for the year, honoring NY Giants' Keith Bulluck .

There are half a million children in foster care today and NYFC is working to make sure they have the opportunity to graduate college. For the segment, NYFC Executive Director Susan Magazine and NYFC supporter, model and former foster kid Selita Ebanks are available for interviews along with the first ever Guardian Scholars, now 2010 college graduates! Throughout their four years they benefitted from the NYFC Back to School Program and Guardian Scholars Program and proved that youth in foster care can make their educational dreams a reality.

For more information on New Yorkers For Children, visit newyorkersforchildren.org.

Actor Scott Adsit stopped by the studio to talk about the season premiere of NBC's hit comedy series <a href="http://www.nbc.com/30-rock">30 Rock on September 23, and their special live episode on October 14.

Asdit plays producer Pete Hornberger on the two-time Emmy Award-winning show, which is a workplace comedy where the workplace exists behind-the-scenes of a live variety show. Asdit is also a seasoned improv/sketch performer, who performed in three different stage shows at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater.

30 Rock airs Thursdays at 8:30pm on NBC.

Read the full story: "Report: Obesity hurts your wallet and your health."

Maureen Callahan stooped by to talk to us about her new book Pokerface: The Rise and Rise of Lady Gaga. The book discusses the early days of the pop star Lady Gaga and explores why the songstress continues to rise in popularity. Callahan's book is based on over 50 interviews with friends, employees, rivals and music industry.

Pokerface: The Rise and Rise of Lady Gaga is available in stores now.

Citi has announced it will host an evening with Mets alumni and award-winning chefs at Citi Field, bringing together two of America’s favorite pastimes, baseball and food, to benefit two local New York City institutions, the James Beard Foundation and the Queens Economic Development Corporation. “Teammates in the Kitchen” will take place on Wednesday, September 22, 2010, at the Delta Sky360 Club at Citi Field.

Mets alumni and greats Sid Fernandez, John Franco, Tom Seaver and Darryl Strawberry will join participating chefs James Beard Foundation Award Winner David Pasternack (ESCA, NYC and Catch of the Day, Citi Field) and other award-winners including Anita Lo (Annisa, NYC), Pastry Chef George McKirdy (Astor Bake Shop, Astoria, NY), John Schenk (Strip House, NYC; Houston; Las Vegas), Michael Sobelman (Acela Club, Citi Field), James Beard Foundation Award Winner Bradford Thompson (Miss Lily’s Restaurant, NYC) and Flavien Trichery (Citi Field).

Dish du Jour's Magazine's 9th annual Cuisine of Queens & Beyond 2010 Food and Wine Gala is being held tonight at the Astoria World Manor in Astoria, Queens from 6pm- 9pm.

The event will feature a tasting of signature dishes, superb wines and outstanding craft beers from fifty of Queens' top restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors.

One VIP ticket holder will be chosen at random from the crowd to participate in a special So You Think You Can Cook challenge. The lucky attendee will challenge acclaimed chefs Rocco Sacramone and Andrea Beaman in creating a fall dish using only five pre-selected ingredients. Celebrity guest judges will choose the winning dish.

Last night, Pastor David Wright joined the congregation of the Joy Fellowship Christian Assemblies for a prayer vigil for the victims of Sunday's tragic church van accident. Pastor Wright, son of the late Rev. Timothy Wright, lost his father in a car accident almost two years ago. He hopes his experience can help the members of the Joy Fellowship Christian Assemblies cope with the loss of six of its members.

 
Pastor Wright is from the Grace Tabernacle Christian Center in Crown Heights. He spoke with PIX11 Morning News Anchor Sukanya Krishnan getting New Yorkers to support this community during this very difficult time.

Calling all lovebirds! Turn up the heat, with a night out on the town. Today we're checking out some unique activities to help keep the romance alive. Ety Rybak, co-founder of Inside Sports & Entertainment Group, was here with some unique spots.

He also helped us give away two VIP tickets to Steve Cohen's "Chamber Magic" show. To win, wait for the on-air cue and be the 11th caller to (866) 414-2911. Click here to read the rules.

World Renowned Speed Painter Greg Pappas painting for a good cause, and he showed us his quick skill by creating four works in just 10 minutes.

Pappas is lending his talent to The Feel Good Concert on Friday, Sept. 24 at 7pm, which benefits the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation to help raise awareness about the disease.

It may be a tough economy but thanks to technology, social media and viral marketing there are businesses you can start for under $100. Whether you are looking to make a full time career switch or just add an extra revenue stream, we've got some ideas for businesses to start with very little capital. Jen Groover, author of What If? & Why Not? was here to tell us how to get the money flowing.

Six Steps To Getting Your Business Started:
1. Register business
2. Get business cards
3. Create website domain
4. Set up a merchant account
5. Set up a bank account
6. Use social media to market business

For more of Jen's advice to starting a business, visit www.whatifandwhynot.com.

Actress AnnaLynne McCord stopped by to talk about the third season of the hit CW show 90210, which just kicked off on September 13.

AnnaLynne also spoke about her wrapping up filming of her upcoming movie Gun, in which she co-stars alongside rapper 50 Cent and actor Val Kilmer.

She also has a few charities she works very closely with -- The Blind Project, The Thirst Project and the St. Bernard Project. In fact, she went to New Orleans at the end of August to build homes with their 7homes in 7days initiative.

Lisa Mateo is at DavidBartonGym with founder, David Barton.

He has launched a national training initiative to fight Ovarian Cancer and raise $100,000 in September, in honor of his sister, Diane Barton. He has proclaimed September 22, "Diane Day" at his gyms and will raise funds through membership and training fees, as well as special events, with all money benefitting the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and The Clearity Foundation. People can also get involved by purchasing the Jules Smith Diane's Charms bracelets.

DavidBartonGym is located at 4 Astor Place (between Broadway and Lafayette Street) on the 3rd floor. For more information, visit www.davidbartongym.com.

Cat Cora, a celebrity chef, author, philanthropist, of "Iron Chef" fame, came to the studio to talk about The Muppets Kitchen with Cat Cora and Hasty Tasty with Cat Cora and the Muppets.

The Muppets Kitchen With Cat Cora is a fun, creative web series in which famed chef Cat Cora (also mother of four boys) teams up with a vivacious cooking partner, Angelo (muppet) to help families rediscover together time through the joy of cooking and laughter. The series will live on both Disney.com and Family.com.

Cat showed our Sukanya Krishnan hearty recipes for Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes and Tropical Fruit Greek Yogurt Parfaits. The recipes can be found in the Bone Health cookbook Cat helped to create, Eating Smart with Sally: The Bone Health Cookbook, which can be downloaded for free at www.bonehealth.com.

The 53rd German-American Steuben Parade is taking place this Saturday (September 25) at 12pm along 5th Avenue!

For more than 50 years, the German-American Steuben Parade has grown into the largest event of its kind in the United States. No other festival in New York City is as colorful and as much fun as our parade with hundreds of music and dance groups, the wildly costumed and masked Karneval groups, the folks in their historic Tracht, the marksmen and all the other marchers on Fifth Avenue. They come together every year to celebrate German-American culture and traditions, and to applaud the achievements of German immigrants to the United States.

We tried out hand at "stein holding" in honor of the National Championship of Stein Holding that will take place in Central Park on the 25th. Lenny Coyne and Miss German America Stephanie Russell-Kraft will be here to talk about the festivities. For more information on the German-American Steuben parade, visit www.germanparadenyc.org.

Sue from the Oak Chalet Restaurant in Belmore, Long Island stopped by to compete in a "stein stacking" competition. The Oak Chalet is hosting Oktoberefst Thursdays. The festivities include German specialties along with music from Accordianist Frank Rapuano. Oktoberfest Thursdays are taking place through Oktober 28th. For more on the Oak Chalet log onto oakchalet.net .

Carrie Tracy, a Health Policy Associate for Community Service Society, was here to talk about what we need to know about the Health Care Reform changes going into effect tomorrow under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA).

Here are some key changes:
• Children with pre-existing conditions can no longer be denied coverage when applying for an individual health insurance policy or as part of a family heath insurance plan
• Health plans will no longer have lifetime or annual benefit caps.
• Preventive screenings, such as annual physicals, mammograms, pap smears, and other services, will be provided to you without charge. your health plan will pay for these services, but cannot apply a co-payment, co-insurance, or deductible payment.
• Dependents can remain on their parents' health insurance plan until age 26.

Director/writer Michael Epstein of LENNONYC came to the studio to talk about their new film that takes an intimate look at the time Beatles member John Lennon, Yoko Ono and their son, Sean, spent living in New York City during the 1970s. The film marks what would have been Lennon's 70th birthday and the 30th anniversary of his death

American Masters presents LENNONYC which features never-before heard studio recordings from the Double Fantasy sessions and never-before-seen outtakes from Lennon in concert and home movies that have only recently been transferred to video. It also features exclusive interviews with Ono, who cooperated extensively with the production and offers an unprecedented level of access, as well as with artists who worked closely with Lennon during this period, including Elton John and photographer Bob Gruen (who took the iconic photograph of Lennon in front of the skyline wearing a "New York City" t-shirt).

The film will premiere at the New York Film Festival Saturday, September 25th at 9pm at Alice Tully Hall (65th And Broadway) and Saturday also at Walter Reade. In addition to the film festival the film will air nationally on PBS, November 22nd.

SpaFinder Deal Days presents, the national wellness week event where hundreds of spas, fitness centers, and salons will be offering services for 50% off or for a flat 50 bucks!

The event is taking place now until September 26th, and you can book these deals online now at: www.spafinder.com/dealdays.

Here's some deals that you can take advantage of:

- I.AM.YOU Studio is offering yoga classes for $10 - which is regularly $20 each.

- Susan Ciminelli Day Spa is offering a seaweed body wrap for $62.50 - which is regularly $125
(note: this wrap helps you minimize cellulite - also - this spa is a celeb fav - of Martha Stewart and Sharon Stone)

- Sphatika Experience Spa is offering their signature facial and peel for $50 - which is regularly $95

There are also events from NY Pole Dancing to pre-natal and family services to hair cuts and laser hair removal.

Fore information, log onto: www.spafinder.com/dealdays.

From Justin Bieber to Selena Gomez, tweens and teens are wild about these young celebrities and follow all that they do. Well this morning we captured the style of some of the hottest young stars. And even better, we found their looks for less. Celebrity stylist Basia Richard who has dressed mega star Selena Gomez put together some fabulous casual looks. She captured the swagger of Justin Bieber, Dakota Fanning, Selena Gomez and Victoria Justice. All of the clothes she found at Mastercardmarketplace.com for around $25.

In addition, the website is holding a shopping event tonight in New York City with featured retailers Hugo Boss, Scoop NYC and Vince. Thirty plus stores in SoHo and the Meatpacking District will open their doors from 5 to 9pm for “Priceless NYC Shopping Night Reserved by Mastercard” but you must RSVP for exclusive access. The shopping night offers up to 30% off, gifs with purchases & VIP experiences. RSVP at www.mastercardmarketplace.com/shopnyc. You can also go to www.facebook.com/mastercard.

After winning the title of Miss USA Susie Castillo, explored the TV industry as a TRL and MTV VJ then became a network show host and actress. Now, in her latest project, Susie will be the interior designer and co-host on the upcoming NBC series School Pride, which makes its series premiere on Friday, October 15 at 8pm.

School Pride is executive produced by actress Cheryl Hines (Curb Your Enthusiasm) and Denise Cramsey (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and True Beauty), and is a show that brings together communities through refurbishment projects at inner city schools.

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 tickets to the "Met"
2. Indian Café is celebrating their 25th anniversary with free tastings of some of their dishes, NY

Actress Italia Ricci stopped by the studio to talk about her role as Maggie Winnock on Cartoon Network's Unnatural History.

The network says of the show: "After years of traveling the globe and learning the ways of the world, Henry Griffin is returning to America to face his biggest challenge yet: the mysteries of high school. Together with his cousin Jasper and friend Maggie, Henry will use his ancient skills to solve modern mysteries." Maggie is smart, determined, has photographic memory and is the daughter of an Air Force colonel.

Unnatural History airs Tuesdays at 8pm on Cartoon Network.

He's been called "the meanest man in comedy," but don't get offended by Jeffrey Ross -- he only roasts the ones he loves. The Roast Master General, himself, stopped by to give us his commentary on news of the day and talk about his upcoming performance at Carolines on Broadway. For tickets and showtimes, visit www.carolines.com.

True Jackson, VP stars Robbie Amell and Ashley Argota stopped by to talk about the show and Nickelodeon's Worldwide Day of Play on Saturday.

On Saturday afternon for three hours from 12pm to 3pm, there will be no programming on Nickelodeon to encouarge the network's young viewers to go out for a Day of Play. The event promotes health and exercise.

True Jackson, VP is about a True (Keke Palmer), who lands a job workig for her idol and appointed as vice president of his fashion empire at just 15-year-old. With the help of her friends, she tries to navigate the transition between homeroon to the boardroom.

True Jackson, VP airs Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. on Nickelodeon. For more on the Worldwide Day of Play, visit www.nick.com/play.

Doug Collins, was mild-mannered Memphis bus driver until his unique laugh was discovered. It's a laugh that truly has to be heard to be believed, and was an immediate YouTube sensation (over 20 million views so far).

Nicknamed "The Man with the Most Contagious Laugh in the World," Doug is one of the stars of Laughology, the uber-infectious, first-ever feature-length documentary on the phenomenon of laughter, exposing audiences to the new international laughter movement which includes Laughter Yoga, Laughercize and the Laughter Party.

Collins will also play a big part in The Great Union Square Laugh In at 14th Street-Union Square on Saturday, September 25th at 4pm.

Using new techniques of contagious laughter and the power of crowds, professional laughologist Albert Nerenberg (and director of the documentary) will take on all-comers in a Laugh-Off that will kick the weekend right into next week!

For more on Laughology, visit laughology.info and more on the event at Union Square, visit www.facebook.com.

High Flavor, Low Labor. With his new book, Associated Press food editor, J.M. Hirsch is reinventing weeknight cooking. He showed us how to make Linguine with Goat Cheese, Smoke Salmon and Peas.

High Flavor, Low Labor: Reinventing Weeknight Cooking is available in stores now. For more information, visit www.jmhirsch.com.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE RECIPE

This week's Friday Forecaster is Gilles Marini from ABC's Dancing With The Stars and Brothers and Sisters.

He has also teamed up with Pyrex to search for the hottest culinary couples. GIlles is a big chef and loves to cook with his wife and kids.

Click here to view past Friday Forecasters.

Known for her role as London Tipton on Disney Channel's Suite Life on Deck , actress Brenda Song stopped by to talk about her role as Christy in the highly-anticipated film Social Network .

Brenda stars alongside Jesse Eisenberg and Justin Timberlake in The Social Network. Directed by David Fincher, the movie tell the epic story of the start of Facebook.

The Social Network premieres today in theaters.

CW fans may know Aaron Tveit as Trip Van der Bilt on Gossip Girl, but they'll know him as Peter Orlovsky in the new film HOWL.

In the film, James Franco stars as the young Allen Ginsberg-poet, counter-culture adventurer, and chronicler of the Beat Generation. In his famously confessional, leave-nothing-out style, Ginsberg recounts the road trips, love affairs, and search for personal liberation that led to the most timeless and electrifying work of his career: the poem HOWL.

Meanwhile, in a San Francisco courtroom, HOWL is on trial. Prosecutor Ralph McIntosh (David Strathairn) sets out to prove that the book should be banned, while suave defense attorney Jake Ehrlich (Jon Hamm) argues fervently for freedom of speech and creative expression. The proceedings veer from the comically absurd to the passionate as a host of unusual witnesses (Jeff Daniels, Mary-Louise Parker, Treat Williams, Alessandro Nivola) pit generation against generation and art against fear in front of conservative Judge Clayton Horn (Bob Balaban).

HOWL opens in theaters today. Fans can also catch him as the lead role (Frank Abagnale Jr) in the new Broadway musical Catch Me If You Can.

Actress Anne Son, one of the stars of ABC's new show My Generation, stopped by to talk about the show and her role as Carolyn Chung.

My Generation is about a documentary crew filming the lives of members of a Texas high school class 10 years after graduation. The story behind Carolyn "The Wallflower" (Son) is she and Steven "The Overachiever" (Michael Stahl-David) slept together on prom night. Ten years later, she has a son and has just informed Steven of his existence.

Son is a Toronto native and a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. She also stuidied improv at Second City in Toronto and the Groundlings in Los Angeles.

My Generation airs Thursdays at 8pm on ABC.

Of the 15 million people unemployed, more than 2 million are 55 or older, and nearly half of them have been unemployed six months or longer. Roy Cohen, a career coach and author of The Wall Street Professional's Survival Guide, stopped by to answer these questions:

• How long it will take them to return to the work force?
• Fear that they will never recover their former incomes
• Where the jobs?
• How can we polish our job-seeking skills? What makes you employable?

The Wall Street Professional's Survival Guide: Success Secrets of a Career Coach is available in bookstores.

On the heels of its impressive ratings growth and incredible eight Emmy wins for its landmark 40th anniversary season, Sesame Street is back with more of what you love for season 41.

Premiering September 27 on PBS KIDS and produced by Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization, the new season of the program continues to address the immediate needs of preschoolers with an emphasis on science education.

Heading into the second term of its two-year curriculum, season 41 emphasizes everyday science investigation and encourages kids to ask specific questions and get excited about how the world works. Additionally, everybody’s favorite furry and blue superhero gets his own new segment in Sesame Street’s block format, “Super Grover 2.0.”

Read the full story: "Bronx teacher admits: I'm an ex-hooker."

For better or worse, they're our hometown teams! And yesterday, whether you cheered the Jets' victory or jeered the Giants' loss, chances are you did it while just hanging around. Today, it's time to get up and get moving! Rowdy Yates of Crunch Gyms was here to show us how to train like a gridiron great.

• 2 in 1 Out - Increases speed and agility using a speed ladder
• Ice Skater - Improves agility using cones
• Tuck Jumps - Explosive movement to improve speed and leg strength
• Single Leg Lift and Chop - Increases balance and strength
• Med Ball Transverse Toss - Core movement that imitates a quarterbacks motion

For Crunch's class schedule, visit www.crunch.com.

We've compiled a list of the best new beauty books that are totally worth the hype. To give us the 411 on the best new choices in bookstores is beauty expert Rebekah George.

• Style Eyes, $17.95
Celebrity makeup artist Taylor Chang-Babaian's new book shows how the eyes really are the windows to the soul. will help you "understand the composition of the eyes and eyebrows and offer simple step-by-step instructions to achieve professional-quality looks for all ages and occasions.
TOP TIP OFFERED IN THE BOOK: Avoid splashing your eyes with extremely cold or hot water or using cold or hot compresses- both can increase fine lines and broken capillaries.

With the help from its Communication Sciences and Disorders program, Pace University's School of Education is offering students with autism a chance at an authentic college experience.

From the classroom to the dorm room, students in the Build on Special Strengths (BOSS) program live and learn alongside their peers. Weekly group and individual counseling sessions, academic tutoring, and weekly social communications sessions help them learn how to succeed and feel comfortable participating in the classroom. Career development and internships are another part of the program.

Established in 2009 for students on the autism spectrum, BOSS began with four members. By 2011, they are expecting thirty. The program is paid for primarily by tuition, program fees and private gifts. Grants may help expand the program.

For more information, log onto www.pace.edu.

Vera Gibbons from WalletPop.com gives us alternative uses for household items: dental floss, toothpaste, petroleum jelly, nail polish remover, pantyhose/

TOOTHPASTE
Toothpaste can also be added to your arsenal of cleaning supplies to polish, shine and freshen a whole host of other things... just stick with basic white paste kind--use it to clean ceramic cook tops (works just as well as expensive ceramic cook top cleaners), put it on a damp cloth and use it to remove crayon from painted walls; also works well as jewelry cleaner.

DENTAL FLOSS
Floss is made with nylon or Teflon fibers so it's stronger than string or thread. plus, it's easier to work with than wire and you can get it cheap at most dollar stores. can hang pictures, ornaments (or any small objects in need of string or wire), use it in place of thread (if have button that comes off), and if wrap length of floss around one finger on each hand, you can cut perfect cake slices. can also cut fruit, soft cheese, bread and hard-boiled eggs this way..it's cleaner and neater than using a knife!

On the hit kid's show "Victorious," she plays the triple threat Tori Vega, a high school student gifted as a singer, dancer and actress. However, in the real world actress Victoria Justice is more than a triple threat. She's a role model for millions of girls-a role she takes very seriously. PIX11 Morning News anchor Sukanya Krishnan chatted with the star about her influence over young girls. Victoria's latest project allows her to get out and really make a difference. She has been in NYC for the last two weeks working on an initiative with the United Nations called Girl Up. The campaign gives American girls the opportunity to channel their energy and compassion to raise awareness and funds for programs of the United Nations that help some of the world's hardest-to-reach adolescent girls.

You can meet the Nickelodeon star along with fashion photographer/"America's Next Top Model" judge Nigel Barker at the Vanderbilt YMCA on Thursday from 4 to 7pm. The two will lead hundreds of girls in a Pep Rally launching the Girl Up campaign.

Also, added to her busy schedule...modeling. Justice appears on the cover of Teen Vogue and is the new face of a new "Got Milk" ad campaign. She wears the milk mustache with pride. Check out the behind-the-scenes of the photo shoot (click below).

Of course, you can catch "Victorious" on Fridays on Nickelodean at 8:30pm. This week's episode is titled "The Great Ping Pong Scam." On October 22 at 8pm, Victoria Justice can be seen in "The Boy Who Cried Werewolf," an original two-hour TV movie. The teen comedy with a sci-fi twist follows Jordan Sands (Justice), a shy and unpopular teen who is accidentally transformed into a werewolf during a visit to Wolfsberg, Romania where her family has inherited an ancient castle. She, her prankster brother and the icy housekeepe (played by actress Brooke Shields) must work together and against the clock to prevent Jordan from remaining a beast forever.

For more on Victorious, visit www.nick.com/shows/victorious.

On October 3 and 4, Feinstein's at Loews Regency will present Bryan Batt, the two-time Screen Actors Guild Award winner and star of AMC's Mad Men, as he takes to the New York nightclub stage with "Batt On A Hot Tin Roof" in an evening of song and charismatic storytelling, weaving a hilarious and poignant tale of his "life experience" in the Big Apple and the Big Easy.

From Cole Porter to Burt Bacharach, embracing classic Broadway and new composers, Batt creates a fun filled evening celebrating heart, hope, and home. Both shows take place at the Loews Regency Hotel (540 Park Avenue at 61st Street).

Performances have a $40 cover with $60 premium seats in addition to a $25.00 food and beverage minimum. There are a select amount of seats, based on availability, with a $40.00 cover charge and no food and beverage minimum. Jackets are suggested but not required. The club is located at 540 Park Avenue at 61st Street in New York City.

For ticket reservations and club information, please call (212) 339-4095 or visit us online at feinsteinsatloewsregency.com and TicketWeb.com.

"Stand-Up Dads" is an upcoming documentary film about four on the rise comedians -- Paul Virzi, Brad Trackman, Harris Stanton and Jay Black -- who are working hard to make it in show business while raising their first-born children. The film is due to release sometime at the end on 2011.

For more information, visit www.standupdadscomedy.com .

Before there were "playdates" there was "play." Kids would simply walk outside and pick up a game of stoopball, ringoleavio or kick the can. So, what has happened to New York's street games? Producer of the documentary "New York Street Games" Craig Lifschutz, and one of the subjects of the film, actor Mike Starr. were here with some insight.

"New York Street Games" captures a special time in American history. From Boxball to Ring-o-leavio to Skully, the film addresses the social and cultural importance of these games and the sense of community they engendered. Narrated by Hector Elizondo, with stories from Keith David, C. Everett Koop, Joe "Joey Pants" Pantoliano, Regis Philbin, Ray Romano, Curtis Sliwa, Mike Starr and many more.

This Sunday in Central Park, an event called "The Ultimate Block Party" will focus on the importance of play in a child's development. For more information, visit www.ultimateblockparty.com.

For more on "New York Street Games", visit www.newyorkstreetgames.com.

NYC school principal Sheila Gorski and Shmuel Meitar, founding chairman and principal of Time To Know were here to discuss what the lagging United States can learn from education advancements abroad.

Under the approval of Joel Klien, Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, Time to Know was chosen to be implemented in more than 20 New York City elementary schools participating in the lauded Innovation Zone (iZone) project from the New York City Department of Education this school year. And, during the 2010 and 2011 academic years, Time To Know will be implemented in 150 classrooms in Israel and 120 classrooms in Texas and New York.

Time to Know is unlike supplemental software as the digital teaching platform operates in a teacher-led classroom as the primary carrier of core curriculum content. Using this platform, teachers can blend digital and traditional instructional activities to deeply engage 21st century learners, address diverse learning styles, personalize lessons, and improve student performance.

For more information on Time To Know, visit www.timetoknow.com.

Otherwise known as Nevel Papperman on Nickelodeon's iCarly, young actor Reed Alexander stopped by to show us how to make Kewl Wrapped Up Mexican Chicken Fajitas … with a Kick!.

Alexander started a website called KewlBites.com in which he offers healthy living tips and recipes. And he's now teamed up with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

Reed will serve a Champion of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation's empowerME Movement. The empowerME Movement is a by kids, for kids initiative that inspires all young people to make healthy behavior changes and to become advocates for healthy eating and physical activity. To date more than 2.3 million kids across the country have engaged in the Movement and made a commitment to their health.

• Click to download the recipe for Kewl Wrapped-Up Greek Salad With Mediterranean Citus Dressing

• Click to download the recipe for Kewl Wrapped-Up Tuna Sushi Rolls

For more of healthy tips from Alexander, visit KewlBites.com.

Larry Mendte was in Barnegat, New Jersey this morning to talk to ailing 9/11 first responder Chalres J. Giles about why it's important for the House and Senate to pass the 9/11 health care bill.

Giles rushed to the aid of a firefighter on Sept. 11. As a result of his selfless act to help another, doctors found bits of debris -- including glass and concrete -- in his lungs. Giles lost his house because he couldn't keep up with paying his mortgage and medical bills. Now, he is dying and has to take 39 different medications, which totals to over $4,000 every month.

Giles says the passage of the 9/11 health care bill should not be a political issue. He says the American thing to do is for the House and Senate to pass the bill that will help all 9/11 first responders who continue to suffer from lingering health problems nine years after the attack.

Larry and four buses filled with 9/11 first responders are headed to Washington, D.C. today ahead of the 12:30pm vote to urge politicians to guarantee the passage of this necessary bill.

Giles is too ill go to D.C., but urges others to call their representives to impress the importance of 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.

John Feal, founder and president of the FealGood Foundation, which spreads awareness and educate the public about the catastrophic health effects on 9/11 first responders, said some key Republicans who should vote in favor of the 9/11 Health and Compensation Act are: Scott Brown (R-MA), George LeMieux (R-FL), Olympia J. Snowe (R-ME) and George V. Voinovich (R-OH).

MORE INFORMATION:
H.R.847 - James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010
To amend the Public Health Service Act to extend and improve protections and services to individuals directly impacted by the terrorist attack in New York City on September 11, 2001, and for other purposes.

S.1334 - James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2009
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to extend and improve protections and services to individuals directly impacted by the terrorist attack in New York City on September 11, 2001, and for other purposes

CLICK HERE TO READ LARRY'S BLOG

SCOTT BROWN (R)
US Senator for Massachusetts
http://scottbrown.senate.gov
Phone: (202) 224-4543
Fax: (202) 228-2646
Click here to email Sen. Brown

GEORGE LIMEAUX (R)
US Senator for Florida
http://lemieux.senate.gov
Phone: (202) 224-3041
Fax: (202) 228-5171
Click here to email Sen. LiMeaux

OLYMPIA J. SNOWE (R)
US Senator for Maine
http://snowe.senate.gov
Phone: (202) 224-5344
Toll Free: (800) 432-1599
Fax: (202) 224-1946
Click here to email Sen. Snowe

GEORGE V. VOINOVICH (R)
US Senator for Ohio
http://voinovich.senate.gov
Phone: (202) 224-3353
Fax: (614) 469-7733
Click here to email Sen. Voinvich

S.1334 - James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2009
A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to extend and improve protections and services to individuals directly impacted by the terrorist attack in New York City on September 11, 2001, and for other purposes

CLICK HERE TO READ LARRY MENDTE'S BLOG

Kenny Lao of Rickshaw Dumpling, one of the city's most popular food trucks stops by PIX PLAZA to give us a taste of how the magic happens in his mini kitchen on wheels.

Kenny and five other food trucks -- Schnitzel & Things, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, Waffels & Dinges, NYC Cravings, and Bistro -- will be serving international foods at New Yorker Festival venues which kicks off October 1-3, courtesy of presenting sponsor HSBC Bank, each chef will create special menu items for the Fest. Rickshaw will also be serving at Tavern on the Green this Fall.

For more on Rickshaw Dumplings, visit www.rickshawdumplings.com.

First female White House Press Secretary Dee Dee Myers, as part of the Empowering Your Confidence movement, depicts where women have been and where they are headed, as they increase their impact on business, education and the community.

Myers is also the author of the New York Times best-selling book, Why Women Should Rule the World. She is an ambassador of the "Empowering Your Confidence" campaign by Jones New York which is a national movement inspired by the tremendous impact working females has had on all aspects of American life.

For more on Dee Dee Myers, visit www.deedeemyers.org.

Tame those wild tresses! We're taking a look at the comeback of curly hair. We had three models to demonstrate how to style curls (to get a modern, stylish look) and how to care for curls.

WOMEN
Only cut curls every 8-10 weeks (as opposed to 4-6 weeks for straight hair). There is a reason why people with curly hair should cut it less often.

Try not to touch curly (or straight hair) hair with your hands throughout the day. The less you manhandle hair, the better. Oils from your hands can make your hair greasier and feel oily.
A popular question is whether or not curly haired people should use a comb or brush? One of the things I use on my clients curly hair is Ouidad's Double Detangler - a wide tooth comb) that works like magic. It separates hair without pulling or teasing curls.

If you wash your hair at night, put your hair in a loose ponytail scruchie on top of your head for sleeping. It will keep curls in tact overnight and allow for them to regain their shape. Apply product in the morning and your set for the day.
Keep hair healthy by applying a Deep Treatment every two weeks - Ouidad Deep Treatment contains essential amino acids and a mix of proteins and moisturizers for healthy, beautiful hair
Use a reviving spray throughout the day or on second day curls for an instant pick-me-up.

Donnie Wahlberg plays Danny in the new CBS show Blue Bloods, a drama about a multi-generational family of cops dedicated to New York City law enforcement.

Frank Reagan is the New York City Police Commissioner and heads both the police force and the Reagan brood. He runs his department as diplomatically as he runs his family, even when dealing with the politics that plagued his unapologetically bold father, Henry, during his stint as Chief.

A source of pride and concern for Frank is his eldest son Danny (Wahlberg), a seasoned detective, family man, and Iraqi War vet who on occasion uses dubious tactics to solve cases.

Blue Bloods airs Fridays at 10pm on CBS.