It has been about eight months since Mark Zuckerberg announced on Oprah that he was giving the city of Newark $100 million to repair its school system. However, many parents, educators and politician want to know where is that money and what are the plans for it. PIX's Sharon Carpenter is on the trail.

Director Charlie Minn stopped by to talk about his film 8 Murders a Day. It's an examination into the social and economical situation in Juarez, Mexico which has turned the city into the murder capital of the world. Juarez, Mexico borders El Paso, Texas.

For more information, visit www.8murdersaday.com.

Rent regulations are supposed to expire on June 15th. This would affect thousands of new yorkers and the most vulnerable members of our community: low-income & the elderly. There is now word of gop state senate leaders being pressured by landlords which was allegedly caught on videotape. Mary Tek and Inger Ross were here to explain more.

David Birdsell, dean of the School of Public Affairs at Baruch College, stopped by to talk about Newt Gingrich announcing his run for president, who else is throwing their hats in the ring and who actually stands a chance to face incumbent president Barack Obama.

READ MORE: "Newt Gingrich makes presidential run official"

US President Barack Obama spoke with New York City Police Sergeant Stephanie Moses after laying a wreath at the 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan in New York. Sgt. Moses was with us this morning and revealed what they discussed.

We've been warned for a year and now the axe has come down. Mayor Bloomberg`s budget proposal could cripple the city's public schools.

UFT President, Michael Mulgrew, joins us this morning to discuss the impact that the proposed budget would have not only on teachers but on students as well, especially students in poor communities.

For more on the United Federation of Teachers, the New York City affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers, visit www.uft.org.

New Jersey father David Goldman stopped by to talk to us about his new book A Father's Love, and hopes his international bitter custody battle for son Sean, 11, will help parents worldwide

David Goldman and his Brazilian wife, Bruna Bianchi, led what appeared to be a happy life in New Jersey. But in June 2004, Bianchi took their four-year-old son, Sean, to Brazil for what she said would be a two- week vacation. Once there, she informed Goldman that she was staying in Brazil-and keeping Sean, setting in motion an international controversy that would eventually reach the highest levels of the U.S. and Brazilian governments. It would be almost five years before David saw Sean again.

Bill Stanton, author of The Anti-Terror Checklist: Preparing for the Unthinkable, stopped by to explain the new updates with the Long Island serial killer case and why the district attorney believes there's more than one serial killer on the loose.

READ MORE: "Bodies Found On LI Beach Dumped By Multiple Killers: Officials"

If you're one of those people who's always wanted to volunteer your time, now's your chance.
Today begins Project Sunshine Week in New York City.

The charity works specifically with children facing medical challenges. This week, national and local businesses will band together to raise funds and awareness.

For more information, visit www.projectsunshine.org.

GASBUDDY
- http://www.gasbuddy.com/gb_gastemperaturemap.aspx
- http://www.gasbuddy.com/gb_retail_price_chart.aspx?time=24
- http://www.gasbuddy.com/GB_Contest_Info.aspx?cntry=GB

CARTICIPATE:
http://www.carticipate.com
The beauty of this free app for the iPhone and Facebook is it matches you with the people on your friends list. Users simply post where and when they're driving and tapp links them up with local "carticipants" who are going the same way.

GAS HOG
- http://www.adairsystems.com
- http://itunes.apple.com
When you hit the pump, simply enter your car's odometer reading, the amount of fuel added and how much you spent on gas. GasHog automatically calculates the latest tank's fuel economy and compares it to past tanks. The app also offers tips for increasing how much your car gets out of each gallon.

ROUTE 4 ME:
http://www.route4me.com
Claims you'll save 30% on gas and time.

GASPRICES.MAPQUEST.COM:
http://gasprices.mapquest.com
MapQuest's main site also offers fueling options. Enter your start and end addresses, choose the shortest or fastest option, and watch the route appear. Then, click a button to display every gas station close to your route.

Financial Expert Vera Gibbons has 5 ways we can lower our health care costs including:

1. Stay in your network
2. Visit drugstore.com
3. Go generic
4. Use your flexible spending account
5. Negotiage medical bills

Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook was born in Harlem and founded a Baptist church in the Bronx. She's made her mark all over the city and she's rubbed elbows with politicians, former presidents and has travelled the world preaching a message of tolerance.

Now, she's been tapped to become President Barack Obama`s religious freedom ambassador. Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook is described by the New York Times as Billy Graham and Oprah rolled into one.

Harlem's Sendoff Celebration for Rev. Cook is at Chocolat Lounge from 2pm to 4:30pm at 2217-23 Frederick Douglass Blvd. at 120th Street. For more information, visit www.drsujay.com.

We spoke to Edmund.com's Sr. Analyst John Giamalvo about how to get the best deal on a car and the best cars for families.

More companies are selling credit scores since the recession but most of them don`t tell consumers where they stand when they apply for a loan with a lender.

Consumers are typically not told that, so they pay to look at a score that they believe the lender will be looking at as well. The key is to know what credit scores matter and when you should get one.

AnnaMaria Andriotis of SmartMoney.com gave us the 411 on credit scores.

"75-plus-year-old" Louise (that's all she'll admit to) has been single her entire adult life, despite a couple of close calls. Now, she's getting married.

A year ago, she started dating Morris, and now they're planning a June wedding. He is the love of her life. There are some things unique to veing an "older" bride, for one, she was the oldest bride at David's Bridals when she picked out her dress, and there won't be a bunch of guests because as she says, lots of people she knew just aren't alive anymore.

This single girl in the city offers advice to the rest of the younger single ladies out there, only one tip of which is never settle.

Boston Media, LLC announced the Launch and schedule for its 2011 Moneywise Empowerment Tour, sponsored nationally by E*TRADE Bank. The Moneywise Empowerment Tour is the outreach program for the Moneywise with Kelvin Boston series, public television’s premiere multicultural financial affairs program. The Moneywise Empowerment Tour has served more than 30,000 consumers nationwide; as well as military members and their families in the US and abroad.

The tour will offer a series of free, results-oriented motivational programs featuring an opening keynote presentation by Kelvin Boston (Moneywise TV series host) and workshops with subject matter experts on topics such as Avoiding Foreclosures, Protection From Mortgage Scams, Reducing Debts, Increasing Savings, Financial Planning, Buying an R-E-O Home, Starting a Small Business, and Investing Online.

The seminars are free to the public and held from 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays. “This national tour will help minority households disproportionately impacted by the recession take action to protect their financial resources and reach their financial goals”, said Mr. Boston. In select cities, the tour will also feature special presenters from local, state and federal government agencies, financial experts, and special guest speakers.

For more information, visit www.moneywise.tv

Treat mom like a queen, on a pauper's budget. We're checking out Mother's Day Gift deals with YipIt.com's Vin Vacanti.

• DoodleDeals.com - Tribeca Spa of Tranquility Body Scrub, Massage and Facial)
YipIt Price: $134. Original Price: $268. Discount: 50%

• DailyCandy.com - Love, Loss and What I Wore
YipIt Price: $45. Original Price: $79. Discount: 43%. Savings: $34

• NYTimes - Summer Cooking Class and Wine pairing at 21 Club for $195

• LifeBooker.com - Haircut and blowout because they just don't have time to book a haircut and blowout, do it for them! Le Salon East. Moroccan Hydrating Hair Mask, Cut & Blowout & Style
YipIt Price: $39. Original Price: $205. Discount: 80%. Savings: $166

• BuyWithMe.com - FlowerShop.com flowers
YipIt Price: $17. Orignal Price: $40. Discount: 57%. Savings: $23

Nelson Apsen stopped by to talk about the latest entertainment news, a a preview of the movie Prom and his new book Dinner at Nelson's. He also shared with us his recipe for a Mocktail -- refreshing and sparkling drink that will allow you to be the designated driver!.

Dinner at Nelson's is available for pre-order at Amazon and comes out in May.

"Mocktail"
- In a frosted glass filled with ice, mix two parts Cherry Soda and one part Ginger Ale.
- Add a healthy splash of lemon juice and stir with a straw.
- Float a tablespoon of cherry grenadine on top and garnish with a slice of lemon and a maraschino cherry.

For more on Nelson Aspen, visit nelsonaspen.com.

So you're still waiting for that invitation to arrive, but you'd better brush up on your royal ettiquette just in case. What should you wear? How should you greet the Queen? How should you behave at the wedding dinner? We'll have all the answers for you from the experts.

Dr. Erika Landau and Dr. Abigail Brenner, authors of The Essential Guide to Baby's First Year were here to discuss the debate over crib bumpers. Are they safe? They explained what do parents need to know.

Energy expert Dan Riesel stopped by to discuss what the oil crisis is about, our reserve and possible alternatives.

PIX 11 recieved great feedback from reporter Andrew Ramos' Autism Awareness package focusing on services of adults with autism.

Darlene Heins, one of the moms featured in his story, received good news after the package ran on PIX11.

The New Jersey's Dept. of Development Disabilities (DDD) approved 16-year-old son Christopher’s admission to a program where he will be allotted services which include day care services, language training, communication skills training, etc.

Debra Alfarone visited her home in North Brunswick to hear more of this happy story.

New York State Senator Eric Adams stopped by to discuss a proposed domestic violence registry bill. We also spoke to Defense Attorney Mike Dunleavy, who represents a woman in Florida who was badly beaten in the judge's chambers by her husband.

Chairman of the Transportation Committee Council James Vacca was here to respond to Donald Trump's comments about LaGuardia Airport. On CNN's "State of the Union", he said, "LaGuardia Aiport, it's like a Third World airport."

Dr. Larry Balter was here to discuss the latest on LaShanda Armstrong, the mother who drove her car into the Hudson River on Tuesday along with her four children.

Imagine, over years, you become an internet celebrity and you didn't even know it?

It happened to one guy. Thousands of people have seen his face, but no one knows who he is until now.

It's virtually impossible to know when or where a picture of you is going to turn up online. As one guy found out, all it takes is one picture to achieve Internet cult stardom.

We're guessing it was about five years ago the first picture surfaced online. It's nothing special, a guy in a jeep, having a good time, but in some circles, the mischievous, fratboy charm of it quickly became legendary.

No one knew who he was, but he was affectionately dubbed "Jeep Brah." Soon photoshopped images began popping up on messageboards.

Political analyst and news editor of Salon.com Steve Kornacki was here to discuss President Barack Obama's plan to cut the deficit by $4 trillion over the next 12 years.

READ MORE: "Obama unveils plan to cut deficit by $4 trillion"

Twenty-year-old Michael Leboff is a junior in college but he's decided to run for mayor of his Long Island village, Rockville Centre.

Leboff says he has experience working at his church, writing entertainment news for a Connecticut web site and being a stand-up comedian. He attends Sacred Heart University.

He says the biggest problem facing the village is parking.

On the evening of Wednesday, April 13, 2011, the Kings County District Attorney`s Office, in partnership with the Safe Horizon Brooklyn Rape and Sexual Assault Program, the Brooklyn Community Pride Center, and the Brooklyn Borough President`s Office, will hold its Second Annual Brooklyn Crime Victims` Rights VOICE Out (Victims On the Impact of Crime Event).

The event will be held from 6pm to 7pm in the ceremonial courtroom of Brooklyn Borough Hall, 209 Joralemon Street, downtown Brooklyn. The program, which takes place during National Crime Victims` Rights Week, will recognize the voices of those in Brooklyn whose lives have been forever changed by crime.

Acting as Master of Ceremonies at this year`s VOICE Out will be PIX 11 weather expert Mr. G. There will also be musical performances by students from LaGuardia Arts, the New York City High School for the Performing Arts. These young musicians will perform, 'They Are Here,' an original choral composition that was created exclusively for the VOICE Out program and which incorporates the words of survivors of violent crime as stated in their 'victim impact statements' to the court.

The program will also include a keynote address by District Attorney Charles J. Hynes, and spoken testimonials from several survivors of violent crime. Last year`s event was a powerhouse, standing room only celebration of the human spirit.

Yesterday, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced that Cathie Black would be stepping down as NYC Schools Chancellor and Dennis Walcott would be stepping in. We spoke to several people for their take on the change up, including:

• Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, who was the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit of parents suing the state for granting Cathie Black a waiver to become schools chancellor

• Councilman James Vacca, who sits on the Education Committee will be here live to discuss Cathie Black's resignation, the appointment of Dennis Walcott and NYC public schools.

• Parent Advocates

• UFT President Michael Mulgrew

Nick Ragone stopped by to talk about what could happen if the government shutdown happens, and what Congress needs to do to prevent it.

For more on Nick, visit www.nickragone.com.

Commissioner Michael J. Astrue of the Social Security Administration is working with Patty Duke and George Takei to launch a new national Public Service Announcements - Boldly Go to www.socialsecurity.gov to get folks to go online for more info on social security benefits

We spoke to Gwyneth Cravens, author of Power to Save the World: The Truth About Nuclear Energy, about the Japanese nuclear crisis, if we should be worried about the safety of the nuclear plants here at home, and if we are overreacting.

For more information, visit cravenspowertosavetheworld.com.

The big health news yesterday…the F.D.A. is considering warning labels for foods containing artificial colorings. After staunchly defending the safety of artificial food colorings for years, the Food and Drug Administration is for the first time publicly reassessing whether or not packaged foods should carry warnings that the bright artificial colorings may worsen behavior problems like hyperactivity in children.

Dr. Jeffrey A. Morrison, an award-winning physician and nutritionist focusing on environmental and integrative medicine, has devoted an entire book (Cleanse Your Body, Clear Your Mind) to the links between toxins and chemicals in our food and environment to health and behavior. The physician and nutritionist stopped by to share his thoughts on the potentially harmful chemicals found in food coloring. He says in his new book, “Even though youth has his advantages, it also has a large disadvantage when it comes to toxic exposure...the younger you are, the more likely it is that your entire diet has been compromised, giving you greater uninterrupted exposure to these chemicals.”

Lionel decoded the hottest news topics, including Libya and Walmart.

The nuclear crisis has put the safety all nuclear plants under scrutiny, and at home guests John Durso and John Kelly spoke about Indian Point Nuclear Plant, located less than 50 miles away from New York City. They also spoke about options for alternative energy.

Today, I had the chance to meet an extraordinary Irishwoman who does it all. Her name is Eileen Mannion Collum. She's 43, has two boys and three girls, takes them to church every Sunday, and runs a restaurant called "Eileen's Country Kitchen" in Yonkers. She also competes in the New York City Triathalon every year, learning how to swim, at 39 years of age.

She grew up in a small town in Galway, Ireland, and milked cows as a child. Her desire to come to America was realized in 1987 when there was a wave of emigration and her cousin sent her the money for a ticket. Since then, she says, she "never looked back." She said she realized the "opportunity to work," and says "the American people are really nice people - this neighborhood really supports us."

Her customers sing her praises, and say everything Eileen does - from serving up a big Irish breakfast all day long, to taking extra care with older patrons - makes her one-of-a-kind.

Her marriage is part romance, part business partnership. Married for 21 years, Eileen's husband (who's currently in Ireland visiting his mom) "buys the food, and (sic) she cooks it." Her regular customers come in daily around 10 am and give her support, "always say something nice," and appreciate her. At the end of the day, Eileen says "We work hard, but it's easy because we love what we do."

Written by Francesca Maxime

Parents are outraged in Florida when a high school teacher gave his class a "sexual tension" quiz. The written test was given last week and full of sexually explicit innuendos.

Questions included references to several sexual organs and acts.The questions alluded to sexual acts, but the answers themselves were harmless. The teacher wasn't fired, but he was disciplined.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE SURVEY.

Lionel and Taegan Goddard of CQ Roll Call's Political Wire will be here to talk about the congressional 'The Extent of Radicalization in the American Muslim Community and that Community's Response" hearings.

READ MORE: "Rep. Peter King defends Muslim 'radicalization' hearing"

With the economy starting to come around. Let's think big here. How bout some great jobs with big paychecks. We're taking a look at five in-demand jobs with high starting salaries with Dawn Fay, district president of Robert Half International. We talked about:

1. Senior business systems analyst.
Nearly 300 finance and accounting positions are listed in the 2011 Salary Guide from Robert Half, senior business analysts are expected to see the largest jump in starting salaries. Average base compensation is projected to rise 5 percent to the range of $93,765 to $120,555. Firms of all sizes look for highly skilled analysts to enhance existing systems and leverage new hardware and software.

Dr. Joel D. Haber, Ph.D. aka "The Bully Coach" will be here to talk about the President's new initiative to fight bullying and protect kids that are being bullied especially in schools.

READ MORE: "Obama tackle bullying in White House conference"

On March 7th, the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation announced 20 finalists for the Citizen Service Before Self Honors, which recognizes and honors those ordinary Americans who become extraordinary through their indomitable courage and selflessness.

Two New Yorkers were among them: Yevgeniy `Eugene` Marshalik and Nicholas Pekearo of New York, New York have been recognized for paying the ultimate sacrifice of their own lives while saving several others during a mass shooting on March 14, 2007.

Harry Potter exhibit coming to Discovery Times Square (same place where they did King Tut, Titanic, etc) It's going to have hundreds of original props, sets and costumes from all HP films plus some never before seen artifacts from the first installment of the last film, which will be on display for the very first time in New York City (New York will be the only US city to see these as it's the last US stop).

The exhibit opens April 5, tickets are on sale beginning today, March 10. The chief creative officer for Global Experience Specialists (the folks that created the exhibit) will be in-studio that morning to announce tickets up for sale.

He will bring a few of the smaller authentic and never-before-seen artifacts and announced "casting" for docents that day (mega-fans who can hold a British accent throughout their shift).

To generate awareness for women’s empowerment, the Second Annual Whisky and Women Unite Event is taking place today, March 8th with proceeds benefitting Bottomless Closet NYC. Kendall Farrell, executive director at Bottomless Closet and Lynnette Merrero, president of the NYC Chapter of LUPEC were on hand to explain more.

The Compass Box Whisky Co., a boutique Scotch whiskymaker and craft blender, announces their 2nd annual event in collaboration with the NYC Chapter of Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails (LUPEC) and Astor Center in honor of International Women’s Day (IWD) which is celebrated worldwide on March 8th, 2011.

To mark the 100th global anniversary of IWD, a Scotch whisky cocktail tasting and culinary experience will take place at Astor Center, New York City’s ultimate hands-on spirits and food culture destination and will benefit the Bottomless Closet NYC, a non-profit that helps disadvantaged NYC women become self-sufficient through its comprehensive programming.

Larry and Lionel stopped by this morning to discuss three topical stories. Now, these guys can talk, but here's the catch: they have just one minute to discuss each of the topics.

The race is on for public Pre-K seats. Parents whose children turn four this year can begin applying to NYC's dozens of free Pre-K programs starting this Monday, March 7.

But they will face big competition, as last year some schools accept only 4 percent of applicants, and the average acceptance rate in Manhattan is about 43 percent.

DNAInfo.com's Education Expert Julie Shapiro will be here with what parents need to know about getting their kid a coveted spot.

READ MORE: Pre-K Registration: What You Need to Know

What do you think about these two school bus incidents: a mother confronts a boy who was bullying her daughter and a bus driver pulls down a girl who won't sit in her seat.

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK HERE.

WATCH THE VIDEOS AFTER THE JUMP...

Activist and journalist Kerry Eleveld from LGBT organization Equality Matters weighed in on the current administration’s role in closing the gap on gay equality. She also spoke about a new series of events for the gay and lesbian community and its allies sponsored by dot49.

dot49 announces the inaugural edition of Straight Talk to take today at the Tribeca Grand Hotel. Straight Talk is a new conference series designed by dot429 to engage LGBTA thought leaders and the dot429 audience in conversation about provocative ideas in business and the LGBT community.

NYC Public Advocate Bill DeBlasio stopped by to talk about tomorrow's passage of the heating bill and to thank the PIX 11 News for helping get the word out.

Colin Stayton, a spokesperson from Lufthansa German Airlines gives us the lowdown the airline's new A380 plane which makes its New York City debut on Monday, February 28 at 1:35pm landing at JFK International Airport.

Click here to win 2 Roundtrip Tickets To Europe Courtesy Of Lufthansa

We visit the offices of the head of AOL Black Voices, an online emporium of news, entertainment, education, classifieds and social media.

The event Blacks On Broadway and Beyond will be honored at the Black History Month Conference tonight at the Gran Piatto d'Oro. Honorees include: Ruby Dee, Jeffrey Wright, Tamara Tunie and Phylicia Rashad.

For more information, visit www.blackvoices.com.

Larry and Lionel stopped by this morning to discuss three topical stories. Now, these guys can talk, but here's the catch: they have just one minute to discuss each of the topics.

Every year, Americans make all sorts of mistakes on their taxes, costing them hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. And while basic arithmetic errors perpetually top the list, financial expert Vera Gibbons was here with some of the more valuable money-saving credit and deductions that are often overlooked such as:

• earned income tax credit
• job hunting costs
• out of pocket charitable contributions
• child care credit

For more "Turbo Tax" advice, visit www.walletpop.com.

The AIM Group is issuing a report today, February 24th, which analyses the frightening number of crimes originating with Craigslist interactions and the results are pretty alarming. Incidents include murder, assaults and numerous other crimes that were publicly reported and documented. Peter Zollman was here to explain more.

Budget cuts are threatening the existence of the services Massachusetts-based company Home Diabetes System provides. The company sets up in-home visits for people diagnosed with diabetes.

Tom Cronin is CEO of Neighborhood/New York Diabetic Supply, a company solely focused on reducing the human and financial costs of diabetes.

Neighborhood/New York's innovative approach includes first-time patient home training visits and regular follow up to ensure patients understand and adhere to testing and medication regimens and following proper self-care.

Previously, Tom was CEO and owner of CranBarry, Inc., a clothing manufacturer. He also worked in management consulting for Bain & Company. Tom was a Seley Scholar at MIT's Sloan School of Management.

For more on Neighborhood/New York Diabetic Supply, visit www.sugartest.com.

Financial expert and Zillow.com contributor Vera Gibbons will be here to explain what our credit scores are comprised of and how to improve them.

For more financial advice, visit zillow.com.

Linda Church's Extended Forecast for Monday, February 21, 2011

With the Pathmark supermarket on Nostrand Avenue scheduled to close, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D – Brooklyn and Queens), Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz and local elected officials will announce efforts to help Sheepshead Bay secure a new supermarket at the location.

Pathmark, owned by grocery company A&P, plans to close 31 other stores in eight states. The company, which owns chains Food Emporium and Waldbaum's, filed for bankruptcy in December.

In today's It's Your Money, we discussed which sectors are in demand and what employers are looking for now with Bob Kovalsky, a senior vice president of Adecco Staffing USA.

Kovalsky says things are improving out there but new hires are still lagging far behind economic growth. If you're still discouraged, snap out of it! Now is the time to get renergized and focused.

For more on Adecco Staffing USA, visit www.adeccousa.com.

Michael Sussman, the attorney for the Henry Family, stopped by the studio this morning to talk about the grand jury's ruling that there is no reasonable cause to indict the police officers who shot and killed Pace University student athlete Danroy Henry.

READ MORE: "Grand Jury: No Reasonable Cause To Indict Officers In Pace Shooting"

Our panel of experts dish about this year's best and worst commercials from Super Bowl XLV.

MORE:
VIDEOS: Ads from Super Bowl XLV

New Jersey native Ali Stroker warmed the hearts of our entire studio this morning with her courageous story and million-watt smile. She is playing the lead role of Olive in Paper Mill Playhouse's production of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee"... and she is in a wheelchair.

Ms. Stroker says she, "may be the first actress in American Musical Theatre to have a leading role in a professional musical." She is a graduate of Paper Mill Playhouse's Summer Musical Theatre Conservatory, and has long been a champion for the Christopher Reeve Foundation. "As a kid growing up in New Jersey, it has been my life long goal to perform at Paper Mill Playhouse," said Ali Stroker. "Now my dream has come true."

Paper Mill Playhouse's production of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" runs through February 13th with the following performance schedule: Wednesdays at 7:30pm, Thursdays at 1:30pm & 7:30pm, Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 1:30pm & 8:00pm and Sundays at 1:30pm & 7:00pm. Single tickets are now on sale and range in price from $25 - $2. Tickets may be purchased by calling (973) 376-4343, or at the Paper Mill Box Office on Brookside Drive in Millburn, or online at www.papermill.org.

Will taxpayers have to foot the bill for the CityTime payroll management system, which is now besieged by fraud and scandal and costing the City $722 million?

Comptroller John Liu says the payroll system is overly complicated and hasn't even been completed so he stopped the final payment of $32 million for the system until the completed version is delivered in June.

An independent report warns that the city is too dependent on this payroll system. The company that created the CityTime payroll management system is now the focus of an $80 million federal corruption case. Last month, one of the directors at the company resigned.

Comptroller Liu will also take his audit bureau on the road for a series of borough town hall meetings to give New Yorkers a chance to learn about the power of the auditing process. New Yorkers will have the opportunity to suggest an audit to the Comptroller’s award-winning audit team.

Dr. Linda Meyer, executive director of Autism New Jersey stopped by to discuss NJ Gov. Chris Christie's proposal to create a school in each of the state's 21 counties that specializes in educating children with autism.

For more on Autism New Jersey, visit www.autismnj.org.

As Americans, we all share something -- we all have to file taxes. As special guest for "It’s Your Money," we have Kathy Pickering from H&R Block with essential tips for the road to Income Tax Day 2011.

• Don't wait to file
The IRS may be delayed until mid-February in processing forms for up to 50 million taxpayers. Of the forms, the three most common delays are for itemized deductions, $250 educator's expense deduction, and the tuition and fees deduction.

• Taxpayers get a 2-percent raise in 2011 thanks to the Tax Relief Act of 2010
This means workers who earn $50,000 a year will have an extra $1,000 in their paychecks -- or $600 more than they received from the Making Work Pay Credit. Taxpayers can put this to work for them by contributing to IRAs and 401Ks, paying bills or funding a college savings account.

The Youtube video that shows a rat in a running around in a New York City subway car before jumping on a sleeping man was has everyone talking. It was posted on Youtube less than 24 hours ago and has already had gotten more than 100,000 page views.

The video is sure to make your skin crawl. It was shot by Jeff Forbes. He was riding the subway when he noticed the large rat running around. Forbes was in our studio to talk to us about that day. He tells us what made him pull out his camera and answer the question we all want to know: Is it real?

New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand spent some time in the hospital with Congresswoman Gabby Giffords.

Giffords was one of the victims of the Arizona massacre. Gillibrand, along with Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and House Minority Leader, Nancy Pelosi emerged from that hospital visit very optimistic. Senator Gillibrand joined us this morning to fill us in on the details including the big strides Congresswoman Giffords has been making.

Essence Magazine's Senior Finance and Careers Editor Tanisha A. Sykes will be here to provide a blueprint to bring your finances back to life in the new year.

FOR EVERYONE:

IGNORING YOUR MONEY STYLE
Are you a saver, spender, hoarder, planner or a little bit of all of them? If one week you have more than enough money, but the next, you don't have any, then figure out your money style.
To Do: Take the Moneymax Personality Profile at www.finpsych.com . It's a brief questionnaire that will help you determine your goals and objectives as well as how you manage money.

Jimmy McMillan of Brooklyn, who rose to national fame during the New York State gubernatorial race, stopped by the PIX 11 Morning News studio to talk about his run for presidency. McMillian explained that instead of running under the "Rent Is Too Damn High Party," he will run as a Republican.

McMillan also answered some of our viewers' questions including the story behind his black gloves, his stance on the Federal Reserve and environment and who he would pick as his running mates. He also sang us a Christmas tune!

Public Advocate Bill de Blasio stopped by to discuss his propoed HEAT Act. The HEAT Act
will work to ensure that every tenant in New York has full heat this winter.

Public Advocate de Blasio’s NYC’s Worst Landlords Watch List now features snowflake icons in profile of each building with heat and hot water violations.

On Saturday, December 18, Police Commissioner Ray Kelly will join with the Rev. Al Sharpton in hosting an NYPD/National Action Network 'Cash for Guns' drive at two Harlem churches, at which members of the public can anonymously turn in working guns for $200; up to $600 in cash (bank cards).

The event is the first with NAN but the 10th the Department has held since 2008 in partnership with city churches. It has been tremendously successful in helping to address the blight of illegal guns on city streets - nearly 6,200 guns have been turned in by the public, among them Uzis, AK-47s and pink-colored 9mms, as were collected this past Saturday in Brooklyn.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Comptroller John Liu stopped by to talk about fraud schemes, the proposed crash tax and the OTB closing.

He also spoke about how his administration has added more transparency by creating the website MyMoneyNYC.com, which provides a The report card that graphically shows just how much -- or how little -- each city agency spends from its eligible budget with minority- and women-owned businesses.

With dealers eager to move unsold inventory before the new model year. the end of the year, as in right now, is often the best time to buy a new car. but there are some secrets to doing it right. financial expert AnnaMaria Andriotis from SmartMoney.com will be here with tips.

• Know Your Car Models Age
After a model sits for 60 days, most dealers will cut the price by 7%

• Find The Latest Inventory Data
Best deals are at dealerships with the most inventory of a specific model

• Be Patient
Dealers don't want the newer cars |to compete with the older, cheaper ones

For more year-end car buying tips, visit SmartMoney.com

This morning Public Advocate Bill de Blasio is releasing new data showing more than 100,000 New Yorkers went without heat or hot water last year, and pushing new legislation that would toughen penalties on landlords who don't provide heat and hot water as required by law.

De Blasio discussed new data showing which neighborhoods these 100,000+ complaints about heat and hot water came from. He also spoke about a tenant who has gone without heat and hot water this year.

De Blasio talked about the problem of tenants going without heat, and the legislation he is backing to toughen penalties on landlords who fail to provide heat and hot water.

For more on Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, visit pubadvocate.nyc.gov.

Today is the day that this country will either stand up for the men and women, who gave the ultimate sacrifice after 9/11. Or they will turn their backs on our American heroes?

The Zadroga Bill goes before the Senate today and first responders feel we have a moral obligation to pass the bill in order to provide the health care to the thousands of heroes who survived and are suffering.

Former New York City Paramedic Marvin Bethea stopped by our studio to share with us his story.

John R. Campbell is the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Wounded Warrior Care and Transition Policy, and wasin town for Veteran's Day related events, including speaking at the 91st New York City Veteran's Day Parade as a guest of Mayor Bloomberg.

We spoke to him about how many people today still think of veterans as the "old-timers" from World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. However, more than 65% of today's military force and separating veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan were born after 1987.

For more on Wounded Warrior Care and Transition Policy, visit www.warriorcare.mil.

Today, we had four members of the American Women Veterans Foundation here to talk about serving and Veteran's Day.

Our guests were: Genevieve Chase, founder and executive director of American Women Veterans, US Army Reserve, Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, 2006;

Victoria Stattel, AWV Essay Contest Winner, US Navy, Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom, returned home in August;

Rebecca Albert, AWV Veterans Advocate, US Coast Guard, Served in multiple locations around the globe as well as Relief work after Hurricane Katrina;

Rebekah Havrilla, AWV Veterans Advocate, US Army, Explosives Ordinance Disposal, Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom

The Medgar Evers College Preparatory School Marching Band from Crown Heights needs $35,000 to compete in this weekend's national championship in Atlanta.

The band dubbed "The East Coast Ocean of Soul" consists of 126 drummers, horn players and dancers.

Greg Mocker will shared their story on the PIX News at 10pm last night and we had about 60 students live to inspire New Yorkers to donate.

Click here to find out how to donate.

Widespread delays and equipment malfunctions. The Board of Elections was blasted over problems on primary day with the new electronic voting machines. So, with Election Day less than 24 hours away, have all the kinks been worked out?

PIX's Tamsen Fadal was in PIX Plaza with New York City Board of Elections Commissioner J.C. Polanco, who walked up through a step-by-step guide to voting with the new electronic machines.

To find your polling place and for any other Election Day questions, visit the Board of Elections' website at www.elections.state.ny.us.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

Sept. 11 first responder Charles Giles and his wife Diane of Barnegat, New Jersey stopped by to talk about the Senate hearing on the 9/11 healthcare bill (S.1334).

We first met Giles when the bill was going through the House of Represenatives. 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.

MORE INFORMATION:
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

He was born and raised on Long Island and now Nassau County Legislator Francis Becker is taking on seven-term Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy for the 4th Congressional District. The latest poll finding the candidates are neck-and-neck. But, just who is the Republican candidate and what does he stand for? Becker joined us this morning to talk abotu his stance on healthcare and unemployment, and how he plans on beating his incumbent opponent.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

Seven candidates running for governor of new york faced off in a debate on Monday. The only female in the mix was Kristin Davis from the Anti-Prohibition Party and she joined us this morning.

Davis spoke about why she thinks she can win the gubernatorial race and how her career as a former madame can help her in the prestigious political role. She also spoke about Eliot Spitzer and how she feels about his new co-hosting gig on CNN.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

New York gubernatorial candidate for the Libertarian Party Warren Redlich came by to talk to us about his platform and his reaction to the gubernatorial debate on Monday. He explained why some feel he made a good show of character at the debate and what he thinks of the other candidates.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

DeNiqua Matias, Newark resident/parent and Leah Owens, founder of Teachers as Leaders in Newark were here to discuss Newark schools. They are both members of the Abbott Leadership Institute.

The Mission of the Abbott Leadership Institute is to empower parents, students, educators and community advocates of Newark Public Schools with information, and knowledge of effective methods for family and community engagement schools.

For more information, visit www.talinnewark.org and www.abbottleadership.org.

He's the founder of the "Rent Is 2 Damn High" party and after stealing the show at Monday night's debate, Vietnam Veteran Jimmy McMillan says he's going to be elected New York's next governor.

McMillan talked to us about Andrew Cuomo and Carl Paladino and explained his platform. He also explained to us why rent is such an important issue for him and what he would do as governor.

For more on Jimmy McMillan, visit www.rentistoodamnhigh.org.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

His campaign slogan is "More Jobs, Not More Taxes." If elected, how does Tom Foley plan to keep that promise? The Connecticut Republican gubernatorial candidate is here to explain.

Foley spoke to us about his plan to close the state's projected multi-billion dollar budget gap, why he doesn't want to raise taxes and his plan to create 100,000 jobs.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

Lisa Guerrero of Inside Edition stopped by to talk to us about the show's I-Squad and its discovery that for some people, finding a parking spot in a big city, like New York, is easy.

Drivers just put an official-looking parking placard on their dashboard and they can park anywhere in the city for free. Cities issue authentic parking placards to government employees on official business and people with disabilities.

But the I-Squad's Lisa Guerrero found many people scamming the system.

For more on Inside Edition, visit www.insideedition.com.

A recent poll shows Sen. Charles Schumer is 21 points ahead of Republican candidate Jay Townsend in the race for US Senate. Schumer may also have $23 million more in the bank, but that isn't stopping Townsend and his cardboard cut out of Schumer from fighting the good fight.

Townsend spoke to us about how he plans to separate himself from the Democratic incumbent, which key issues they have differing opinions on and how he plans on creating new jobs In New York.

CLICK HERE FOR 'FULL ACCESS' TO ELECTION DAY COVERAGE

My husband, son and myself participated in the Race for the Cure Walk for JDRF, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation this weekend.

We were part of Team Rohan -- or "Rohan's Racers" -- and we had a blast helping out in this great cause. But we need everyone's help to find a cure. So when I found out about this company and what they are doing I had to spread the word.

If you buy these pajamas by Komar, the largest sleepwear apparel company in the nation, 100% of the proceeds go directly to JDRF. 100% of proceeds! I have never heard of anything like that from any company.

Please buy these pajamas for a loved one. You are helping 24 million Americans who have diabetes. The goal is to raise $1 million for JDRF by selling comfy cotton pajamas, available just in time for holiday giving.

To buy the pajamas, visit www.pjforthecure.com. For more on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, visit jdrf.org.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

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.

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.

If you're looking for a job, Long Island is the place to be tonight. New York Sen. Kemp Hannon is hosting a job fair at East Meadow High School in East Meadow, New York. Their is a preview at 3:30 followed by the job fair from 7pm to 9pm

East Meadow High School
101 Carman Ave.
East Meadow

This event will bring job seekers and potential employers together and will be geared towards assisting individuals seeking employment by identifying businesses and organizations that are hiring.

To register, log onto www.kemphannon.com. You can also contact Sen. Hannon at (516) 739-1700

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz came by to talk about 32nd annual the Seaside Summer Concert Series at Asser Levy/Seaside Park, the 28th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Concert Series at Wingate Field in Crown Heights/Central Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Book Festival coming up Sept. 12.

Seaside Summer Concert Series Lineup
August 19: The B-52s, Belinda Carlisle.
August 26: Latino Music By the Sea .

Martin Luther King Jr. Concert Series Lineup
August 16: Gospel Night: Bebe & Cece Winans, Fred Hammond
August 23: Caribbean Night: Sean Paul, Mighty Sparrow

Building an Islamic center and Muslim prayer room in Lower Manhattan seems to be coming together. An unanimous vote by the Landmark’s Preservation Commission rejected a proposal to grant protected status to two adjoining 19th-century buildings that a Muslim group wants to transform into a community center. Many family members who lost loved ones in the 9/11 terrorist attacks feel that the proposed mosque center will be just too close to where the World Trade Centers were. Today, Zead Ramadan of the NY Council of Islamic Relations spoke to PIX 11 Morning News about the issue.

As an American Muslim, himself, Ramadan says he is against terrorists and he does not and has never had any association with the attack on the nation. He says, “Many Americans insinuate that American Muslims should be part of a collective guilt for what happened with 9/11." He goes on to say, “I’m a proud American Muslim who defends my nation.” He feels that the argument about impeding fellow Americans from having their constitutional rights and civil liberties is something that should be considered.

When completed, the Islamic center will provide a safe and happy living area and offer Muslim children an opportunity to prosper in the nation. The Muslim community is currently educating youth about anti-terrorism. He sums up to say that in no way is the center meant to disrespect anyone who lost family in 9/11 because we were all victims of 9/11

Written by Jerry L. Askin, Jr.

America can't stop talking about Chelsea Clinton's wedding. The media has gone abuzz, airspace has been closed down, and she may even be spending $3 million on her big day.

Bonnie Fuller, editor and founder of Hollywood Life, stopped by our studio today to talk about Chelsea's wedding, as well as past weddings from American presidential families. She breaks down the A-listers and the Clinton family ties to Hollywood. Bonnie even compares this first daughter's wedding to that of English royalty. We talk designer gowns, celebrity guest lists, and the reasons why Chelsea's big day has become the talk of the town.

Written by Andrea Lontoc

Chelsea Clinton's upcoming wedding has been attracting media buzz for the past couple of weeks but does it deserve all the hype? Perrie Samotin, editor at AM New York to walked us through all the frenzy and speculation.

"It's a little confusing knowing what we know about Chelsea," said Samotin, commenting on the usually "under-the-radar" figure. "It's quite a change from what we're used to."

Samotin attributed most of the wedding's attention to her politically-connected parents, who are helping foot the nuptuals' $3 million price tag.

The editor also talked about the exclusive guest list; so exlusive, in fact, that even current President of the United States didn't make the cut.

Inviting Obama "might distract from the couple," said Samotin. "Having all these presidents there wouldn't make for a low key wedding."

For more updates on the Clinton wedding as well as news and entertainment, look for AM New York on newsstands today.

Written by Vanessa Misciagna

The world of baseball continues to commemorate the life of George Steinbrenner and today, acclaimed NY Daily News sportswriter Bill Madden came by our studio to discuss Steinbrenner's lasting legacy on this all-American sport.

Madden is the author of several books such as, Damned Yankees: A No-Holds-Barred Account of Life with 'Boss' Steinbrenner, and Steinbrenner: The Last Lion of Baseball. He describes Steinbrenner's complex personality and fearless attitude towards winning. He tackled many business ventures and is described by Madden as a "visionary when it came to television, especially local television."

Steinbrenner was also a great benefactor to children's causes and Madden believes "the way he'll be remembered is a kinder, and gentler George."

"George was made for New York," said Madden. Indeed, Steinbrenner has made a lasting impact not only in New York, but in the entire world of baseball, and his legacy shall never be forgotten.

Written by Andrea Lontoc

Darryl Strawberry, former Yankees' slugger, called the PIX studio today from St. Louis, MO, to talk about George Steinbrenner's legacy and personal relationship with the ball player.

"First of all we lost an icon of New York City and also we lost such a great man of passion and desire," Strawberry said. "He will be dearly missed."

Steinbrenner had a major effect on Strawberry especially. In the mid-ninties, Strawberry was followed by controversies.Due to his situation, Strawberry found it difficult to continue his career as an outfielder until 1996, when The Boss had made the decision to give the player another chance.

"I will always be grateful for every opportunity that he had given me and sticking his neck out for me and not only me but he's done it for so many people," said Strawberry.

Former Yankee publicist, author and baseball enthusiast Marty Appel, shared both his positive and negative experiences of working with George Steinbrenner ever since The Boss joined the franchise in January 1973.

"We were very excited for him because it was evident from the start that the man was a winner," said Appel."And for many years of lathargic finishes this was a breathe of fresh air."

He admitted that working for Steinbrenner was unpredictable and "crazy" but along with that craziness was another, less recognized side to The Boss; a softer side. Appel talked about how whenever the team returned from a successful road trip, Steinbrenner himself would personally greet the team at Kennedy airport, sometimes as early as three in the morning.

"He would be there with his driver to congratulate us and pass out $20 bills so everyone could take a cab home from the airport" the publicist recalled. "That was the other side."

New York City Comptroller John Liu stopped by to talk about the launch of CheckbookNYC.com.

The site provides unprecedented access to view and track how New York City government spends money. Over $35 billion in City expenditures since January 1 are now accessible on the site.

Sandy Kane (aka "The Naked Cowgirl") was here to talk about her the showdown in Times Square with the Robert Bruck (aka "The Naked Cowboy") has sent her a cease-and-desist letter, claiming she's stealing his trademark.

Burck says if Kane's going to make money by posing for photos, he wants her to sign a "Naked Cowboy Franchise Agreement." Most of his licensed franchisees are required to pay $5,000 a year or $500 a month and go through a screening process. For example, another woman who bills herself as the Naked Cowgirl, Louisa Holmlund, is a licensed franchisee.

Kane performs in Times Square on 46th Street and Broadway.

Read the full story: "Naked Cowboy To Naked Cowgirl: This Town Isn't Big Enough For The Two Of Us."

An Ohio company is recalling 2.5 million ride-on toy buggies because a design flaw can allow them to roll away uncontrolled.

The buggies, which resemble cars, have long handles so parents can push them like a stroller. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says the push handles on select Step2 Push Around and Whisper Ride buggies can detach, allowing the buggies to roll away without any means of control.

The company has received 28 reports of detached handles, including two reports of injuries that required medical treatment.

The push handles on the recalled buggies are attached by a pin with a yellow knob on the head. Buggies with handles attached by bolts with black or white plastic heads are not included in the recall.

The U.S.-made buggies were sold between August 1999 and March 2010.

For the free repair kit, visit www.step2.com/recall.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Fewer rides and more crowded trains are coming down the track for NJ Transit riders. On May 23rd, more than 30 trains will be discontinued -- that's at least two trains per line. A 25 percent fare hike went into effect may first.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE CHANGES.

President Barack Obama will lay out his plan for Wall Street Reform tomorrow at Cooper Union College. He plans on bringing transparency to financial dealings on Wall Street and closing loopholes to stop recklessness and irresponsibility.

Last Friday, Goldman Sachs, the Wall Street powerhouse, was accused of securities fraud in a civil lawsuit filed by the Securities and Exchange Commission which claims the bank created and sold a mortgage investment that was secretly intended to fail.

Today, Russel Pearlman from Smart Money Magazine discussed what the reorganization of Wall Street and what it means for us.

On Tuesday, April 20th, voters in New Jersey will head to the polls to vote for school board members and to approve 2010-2011school budgets. With Governor Chris Christie planning to cut state aid, many school districts stand to lose millions in funding.

One school district feeling the crunch is North Brunswick Township in Middlesex County. Under Christie's budget plan, its school system stands to lose $8,680,802 in aid. This school year, North Brunswick received $12,640,118 from the state.

New York Senator Kiristen Gillibrand (D) stopped the PIX11 studios this morning to talk with anchor John Muller.

Gillibrand discussed federal efforts to take aim at the growing gang violence on Long Island.

She says the gang problem is being fueled by the growing heroin problem.

Gillibrand also dismissed criticism that she is a lavish tax and spender from newly anounced Republican Challenger David Malpass. She callled Mapass a "failed economist."

Gillibrand is also is launching a campaign for better nutrition. She says too many areas in the state are "nutrition deserts."

Gillibrand wants all communities to have local access to stores where they can buy healthy foods like fruits and vegetables.

Tiger Woods is back and if Monday's opening round was any indication, he is the same fearsome Tiger of Master's past.

In his first round back since the scandal of his extramarital affairs hit the headlines, Woods posted his best opening round ever at Augusta.

Despite many experts saying he would not be sharp after a four month lay-off, woods was dominant, displaying the sharp focus and calm he has used to help him become the best golfer in the game.

Tiger's opening round 67 puts him two strokes behind former Master's Champion Fred Couples and a single stroke behind 60 year old Tom Watson.

We talked with Ron Sirak, executive Editor of Golf World Magazine who followed Tiger on the course. Sirak says Woods was warmly received by the crowds watching at Augusta National.

He says the cheers for Tiger grew louder as the day progressed with fans remembering why the fell in love with Woods in the first place.

Sirak says the challenge for Tiger will be to maintain that intensity and concentration for three more grueling rounds.

Written by John Muller

Twenty-five-year-old Nia Haqq's funeral will be held this morning in Newark's Symphony Hall. Her fiance 27-year-old Mike Muchioki funeral will be held on tomorrow at Monumental Baptist Church. The couple had planned to spend the rest of their lives together, instead their families say they will share the same grave.

This morning we are remembering this young couple and also grieving with their families.
We were joined by Mike's god-brother, Jared Smith, and close friend, Myron Covington. They brought personal pictures and remembered their best friend.

READ THE FULL STORY: "Family, Friends Get Ready to Say Goodbye to Murdered NJ Couple"

Today, there's a story out of Plant City, Florida a 14-year old middle school student was threatened with suspension after staff at the school deemed his breast cancer awareness bracelet appropriate.

Frankie Rodriguez bought a $4 bracelet with the words that read "I love boobies" and "Keep a Breast."

He wore the bracelet to school for a month before anyone noticed or had a problem with it. A faculty member took the bracelet last Friday and then returned it. When Rodriguez came to school Monday, he was wearing it again and was told to turn it over, when he didn’t, he says he was threatened with suspension.

Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer stops by to remind New Yorkers to respond to the census form. The majority of city residents do not respond to the census survey -- only 32 percent of population in Brooklyn mailed out their forms, 36 percent in Queens, 37 percent in the Bronx, 42 percent in Manhattan and 43 percent in Staten Island. The country’s average response rate is 52 percent.

“The stake has never been higher,” Stringer said. “We benefit by sending our census forms back as our city gets a lot of federal funding.”

At least $212 million were lost in Manhattan alone at the last census survey 10 years ago, he said. New York State also lost two congressional seats because of what Stringer argued as an inaccurate census count.

Today, the Manhattan Complete Count Committee is launching the “Don’t Be Fooled, Be Counted,” to combat the low response rate to the 2010 Census.

Long Islander's who are unemployed will be given free dental exams on February 26th at Exceldent Dental, located at 805 Middle Country Rd.

Office hours will be from 9am to 5pm. Proof of unemployment is required upon visit.

The Dental office will offer exams, x-rays, cleanings, and oral cancer screenings so new impressions can be made.

Dr. Stephen Candell said, "There are a lot of people unemployed out there who end up sacrificing dental care because of lack of funds."

Visits are scheduled based on a first come, first serve basis. To participate, call (631) 716-1000, or (631) 698-1140.

Written by Rocco DiMase

She’s the junior Senator from New York, appointed by Gov. Paterson and now running for her own seat outright, possible against a big name challenger in the primary.

Kirsten Gillibrand joins an effort to make spending political campaigns – like her own – more transparent.

Toyota has announced that it will recall millions of cars due to faulty gas pedals and floor mats.

But what does it mean to you if your car is affected?

Leave your questions, concerns and comments in the comment box below and a AAA expert will answer them.

Read the full story: "Toyota recalls additional 1.09 million vehicles in US over floor mats, pedals."

It was two weeks ago today that a 7.0-magnitude earthquake rocked Haiti and changed the lives of millions in an instant. City Councilman Jumaane Williams was here to talk about the devastation that was also felt here directly and indirectly in the New York Haitian community.

Working with the City's Office of Payroll Administration, the Council and the Mayor new citywide payroll deduction program will begin on the paychecks and direct deposits on February 5, 2010.

All City employees who wish to participate can elect to donate a specified amount of money from each paycheck earmarked to further Haitian Relief Efforts in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. These tax-deductible deductions will run for two months spread over four pay periods. There are 300,000 City employees. If each one of them earmarked just $1 per paycheck for the four pay periods for Haiti, we would raise $1.2 million for the relief effort just from this simple program alone.

City Employees can participate by visiting the action center on the City Council home page at http://council.nyc.gov and find a link for the NYC Payroll Deduction Program for Haitian Relief Effort.

Project S.O.S. is an exclusive PIX mission calling for the MTA to reverse its plans to cut our kids' free rides to school.

The protests against the MTA cuts continue this morning. At 8:30 a.m., City Councilman Vincent Gentile is holding a rally in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn to tell the MTA not to leave New Yorkers out in the cold when it comes to public transportation.

We've been asking everyone out there to join us, including all other media outlets, and now our call to action has reached the radio waves. Radio personality Egypt from WBLS 107. 5FM was here to tell us her radio station will join PIX in Project S.O.S.

You can "Mid-days With Egypt" on WBLS weekdays from 10am to 3pm.

To join our fight or to learn more about Project S.O.S., log onto wpix.com/projectsos.

More than two dozen service changes are scheduled beginning late Friday, affecting every major line but the Nos. 1, 6, E, L and M trains.

Among the most inconvenienced with be straphangers using the busy Fulton Street station in downtown Manhattan.

For a list of all these changes, visit tripplanner.mta.info/

Monday’s massive watermain break in Jersey City which affected the entire Bayonne community. Residents were without water and schools were delayed for hours. Jim Poirir, executive vice president of Hatch Mott MacDonald -- the consultant firm for Bayonne's Municipal Utility Authority --, stopped by to give us an update on the story and why water main breaks happen.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tropicana Juice wants help saving the rain forests.

James Ford tells us how one Brooklyn resident took that call for community involvement very seriously.

If you want to join the action, visit www.tropicanarainforest.com.

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - For the first time, New Jersey consumers can access detailed information on patient safety at hospitals throughout the Garden State.

State health officials recently released a report that shows each hospital's patient safety performance and incidence of serious medical errors - such as operating on the wrong body part or leaving a sponge or instrument inside a patient's body.

While health care facilities had already reported preventable medical mistakes, the state had previously just published the number of errors, not the data for individual hospitals.

The new information is included the New Jersey Hospital Performance Report, published annually by the state Department of Health and Senior Services. It can be found at the department's Web site, www.nj.gov/health/hpr.

The city is planning major service changes due to subway repairs this weekend.

Nearly every train line that normally runs will be affected. Shuttle buses will serve at skipped stations on seven subway lines from the Bronx to Queens.

Scores of riders will be inconvenienced by the changes. A transit spokeswoman says there's a push to get work done on elevated tracks before the winter comes.

For more on these changes, visit tripplanner.mta.info.

A woman's bra which in an emergency can double as a pair of gas masks has won one of the awards handed out at the prestigious Harvard University for the year's most eccentric research.

The Ig Nobels, a tongue-in-cheek homage to their Scandinavian counterparts, were announced just days before the Nobel committee in Stockholm began awarding its prestigious awards on Monday.

The bra that can be turned into two protective face masks -- one for the wearer and the other for whoever else may need one -- won its inventors Elena Bodnar, Raphael Lee and Sandra Marijan of Chicago the Public Health award.

The patent states that each of the bra's cup sections is fitted with a filter device, meaning the wearer can whip it off, and detach each section to fit it over the face.

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

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

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

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

To 'stache or not to 'stache... That's the question apparently plauging John Oates -- of Hall and Oates. The question is so perplexing it's spawned an animated movie! It's called "J-Stache" and it's being shopped around for a possible deal.

You can watch the trailer at jstache.com or after the jump.

A swimming advisory against nearly five dozen beaches on Long Island. Suffolk county officials say heavy rains can increase the bacterial content in water to unsafe levels. The affected beaches:

Cold Spring Harbor Beach Club, Eagle Dock Community Beach, Lloyd Harbor Village Park Beach, Gold Star Battalion Beach, Bay Hills POA Beach, Baycrest Beach, Crescent Beach, Head of the Bay Club Beach, Nathan Hale Beach Club, Wincoma Beach, Centerport Beach and Fleets Cove Beach.

They also include: Huntington Beach Community Association, Knollwood Beach, Asharoken Beach, Hobart Beach (Bay), Hobart Beach (Inlet), Prices Bend Beach, Steers Beach, Bayberry Cove Beach, Bayview Beach, Grantland Beach, Indian Field Association Beach, Little Bay Beach, Long Beach, Nissequogue Point Beach Club, Schubert Beach, Short Beach, Stony Brook Beach, Stony Brook Yacht Club Beach, Soundview Beach Association, Beech Road Beach, Broadway Beach, Crab Meadow Beach, Friendship Drive Beach, Miller Place Park Beach, Scotts Beach, Shoreham Shore Club Beach, Shoreham Village Park Beach, Shoreham Beach, Sound Beach POA East, Sound Beach POA West, Terraces on the Sound Beach, Tides Beach, Woodhull Landing Beach, Valley Grove Beach, Bayberry Beach & Tennis Club, Bayport Beach, Benjamin's Beach, Brightwaters Village Beach, Corey Creek Beach, Islip Beach, Patchogue Village Pool & Beach Club, Sandspit Beach, Sayville Beach, Sayville Marina Park Beach and Venetian Shores Beach.

The JFK Foundation will be recreating history online as it tracks the first mission to the moon!

Beginning today at 9:32am, a website will mark Apollo 11's liftoff through the landing on the moon as Monday marks the 40th anniversary of Neil Armstrong's "giant leap for mankind".

To re-create the trip, archived audio and video transmission will be used from the mission. You can follow the journey yourself at wechoosethemoon.org.

Whether or not anecdotal reports of iPhones overheating are true, Apple has taken them seriously enough to reveal the presence of a temperature warning screen for the iPhone 3G and 3GS.

Here's the deal: an unknown but probably very small number of iPhones have been affected by overheating, to the point that some white iPhone 3GSes have allegedly turned pink. Sascha Segan, our phone analyst, said he hasn't seen any such problems with his iPhone 3GS, however. Apple, however, has issued what some might call a "common sense" warning: a support document that warns users not to keep the iPhone in an environment where temperatures can exceed 113 degrees Fahrenheit, including parked cars.

But Apple also warns that CPU-intensive applications, such as playing music or using the GPS while in direct sunlight may also overheat the iPhone. In that case, actually using the iPhone in temperatures over 95 degrees can also trigger the temperature warning. "Low- or high-temperature conditions might temporarily shorten battery life or cause the device to temporarily stop working properly," Apple warns.

For more information, visit support.apple.com.

Courtesy of PCMag.com

CAIRO (AP) - The performances aren't in Iran -- they wouldn't be allowed -- but Joan Baez and Jon Bon Jovi are showing their support for demonstrators who have been protesting the result of Iran's presidential election.

Both artists have posted videos on YouTube of themselves performing songs that call for peace.

Bon Jovi sings "Stand By Me" alongside Armenian-Iranian pop star Andy Madadian. The New Jersey rocker sings a line expressing solidarity with the protesters in Farsi, with lyrics that translate to "with one voice, you and me." The video opens with an image of Bon Jovi holding a sign that reads "We are all one" in Farsi.

For more on Shelley Wade, visit zzone.z100.com/shelley.

For more information on Tom Ryan, visit americanhitradio.com.

For more on Entertainment Weekly, visit www.ew.com.

Attention all Blackberry users: a new security patch is needed to help keep the mobile devices safe from hackers.

Manufacturer Research In Motion says no one has been hacked yet, but the possibility exists.

In the meantime, the company says don't open e-mail attachments from anyone you don't know.

Click here for a free download of the patch.

State Senator Jeff Klein He was born and raised in the Bronx and now represents the borough in the New York State Senate. Like the rest of the country, his district has been hit by the housing crisis and with 43 evictions in the Bronx last month. There were 548 New York City eviction cases on the March court calendar. Senator Klein has been fighting to keep people in their homes.

Senator Klein said that there have been a record number of foreclosures, but foreclosures actually drag down the value of homes in the neighborhood. The Center for Responsible Lending estimates that a single foreclosure in a neighborhood can drag down property values by $5,000 and increase crime by as much as 6%.

He has also proposed the Neighborhood Preservation Act to combat this. The proposed law would allow municipalities to clean up unsightly foreclosures, issue violations and recoup the costs from the lending institution. The bill has cleared the State Senate and is now before an Assembly committee.

The New York Archdiocese, serves over 2.5 million parishioners and later today, Timothy Dolan will be installed as its leader. Here to shed some light on the retirement of Cardinal Edward Egan what can be expected from the Dolan, the 10th archbishop appointed by Pope Benedict XVI is Reverend Jean-Pierre Ruiz, chair and professor of theology and religious studies at St. John's University.

Egan said his greatest disappointment was not attracting more vocations to the priesthood. Rev. Ruiz said that Dolan may want to focus his attention there.

Dolan stated he will ask Catholics not to be so consumed by their problems in these difficult times that they turn inward and away from the community. Still, he said he struggles with how best to convey Catholic teaching. Dolan said that as archbishop he plans to challenge the idea that the Roman Catholic Church is unenlightened because it opposes gay marriage and abortion. He also said he will work to restore pride in the church. Dolan also stated that Catholics also must defend themselves against bias, which he said was still deeply ingrained in American culture.

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz stopped by live to talk about "Dine In Brooklyn," Brooklyn's own restaurant week!

For a list of participating restaurants, or more info, log onto www.visitbrooklyn.org.

Kristin Davis, the infamous "Manhattan Madam", stopped by this morning to talk about her new book and her time in jail.

Davis owned New York's most successful prostitution ring, with more than $5 million in annual sales and a roster of 10,000 rich, powerful and famous clients. In 2008, Kristin closed her business and spent four months in prison and now she's telling her story in her new book The Manhattan Madam: Sex, Drugs, Scandal and Greed Inside America's Most Successful Prostitution Ring.

Davis, first captured national attention in early 2008 in the wake of the scandal surrounding New York Governor Eliot Spitzer's resignation and has recently been linked to New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez.

For more information, visit www.manhattanmadam.com.

Gene Russianoff from the NYPIRG Straphangers Campaign stopped by the studio this morning to talk about yesterday's MTA vote for the fare hike and how it affects New Yorkers.

Russianoff said that along with the failing economy, the MTA is especially suffering because of their poor spending, like buying new train cars on borrowed money. He said that unless Albany helps the MTA, the fare hike will become a reality on May 31, 2009.

Commuters will suffer from not only fare hikes, but service cuts as well. Eliminating bus and train routes especially hurts the elderly and disabled, who rely on these routes to travel around the city.

To protest the MTA's fare hike and service cuts, visit KeepNewYorkMoving.org.

Hot on the heels of two primetime interviews and a press conference, Nick Ragone joined PIX’s John Muller to discuss President Barack Obama’s media presence.

Being the president’s second primetime address in two months, Ragone said the President is running the risk of becoming overexposed primarily because this address did nothing to add to his presence.

Ragone goes on to say that President Obama’s icy response to a question about AIG is the first time the public has seen him lose his cool in the past two months. The word "waffle" came up when discussing Obama’s plan for middle class tax cuts when Ragone pointed out that this issue is something to watch in the coming years.

Ragone also says that Obama’s avoidance of the topic of America adding $7 trillion worth of deficit in the next 10 years could be cause for further scrutiny.

Nick Ragone is a political author and a regular contributor to PIX11 Morning News.

Geoffrey Rogow of Dow Jones Newswires spoke with us about how the recent upsurge in the stock market might affect our pocketbooks.

The Dow Jones gained 497 points yesterday--its largest earnings since November. This came one the same day President Obama presented a trillion dollar financial proposal.

Rogow saw this gain as a sign of the end of a rally: "We've already had a 16 to 18 percent gain in the Dow Jones industrial average..." However, he allows that employment is going to get worse before it gets better, at consumers' expense. Rogow explained, "As bad as fourth quarter earnings were this year, the first quarter will be worse."

With Obama's rescue plan, Rogow foresaw that pension funds can be invested directly into corporations like Pimco.

He explained that the money coming out of the Stock Market isn't reaping any money, and is in turn affecting factors like student loans and "other things that people need to pay on a day to day paycheck because they're not getting their paycheck."

Judge and legal expert Jeanine Pirro spoke with John and Suki about the ongoing Madoff scandal and what still needs to be unearthed to finally put the issue to rest.

According to Pirro, the judge only accepted Madoff's solitary plea of guilt because the schemer agreed to take responsiblity for everything he was charged with. The issue lies beyond these charges--Pirro asserts that should the feds have decided to charge Madoff on more than his eleven counts, it would require him to reveal the identities of those he conspired with. At the end of the day, Pirro said, "The feds just wanted a conviction and to move on."

Although Madoff's family has made a point of distancing itself from him and the limelight, Pirro pointed out several suspicious goings-on of Ruth Madoff in relation to her husband. Following a late November withdrawal of $5.5 million from a brokerage firm partly owned by Bernie Madoff, Ruth made a second withdrawal of $10 million the very day prior to her husband's arrest. Pirro stresses that it is important to keep in mind Ruth's $45 million in municipal bonds, and the fact that she is her husband's bookkeeper.

Pirro foresees jailtime for Madoff: "This is a very corrupt organization that is not the result of one person's fraud. It's a big operation."

PIX's Craig Treadway sat down with Chief Market Analyst Wayne Kaufman to discuss the day of good news experienced at Wall Street.

Yesterday, the Dow Jones industrials posted their biggest three-day jump since last November, shooting up 240 points an bringing its 3-day gains to more than 600 points. Companies such as Bank of America declared that they have been profitable this year and General Motors stated that they need not the $2 million loan they previously requested. Kaufman allows that "it's possible we're at the initiation of what could be a significant rally"; however, he also adds that it may be too early to celebrate just yet.

Kaufman notes that retail sales have improved--a good indicator for the state of our economy. As far as Madoff's guilty plea is concerned, he believes the scandal could have created a conflict for potential new clients at the firm who are begging the question, "Where's my money going to be housed?...It has created a bit of a problem."

After a long day, sometimes you just want to relax with a nice cool bottle of ... Pub-Corn! That's right, it's finally here: beer-flavored popcorn!

A hero to barflies and frat boys alike, Missouri University senior Cary Silverman said his inspiration came from seeing his friends sneak alcohol into movie theaters.

And after a lot of research and development in his dorm room, Silverman has already created other beverage-inspired coatings for his popcorn, like beer, pina colada and Irish cream. Silverman is currently working on creating tequila flavor.

For more information and to purchase some Pub-Corn, visit www.pub-corn.com.

Hundreds of New Yorkers waited in line for hours in Times Square yesteday to receive a generous gift from a man who calls himself "Bailout Bill." He handed out cold, hard cash to about 800 people today and yesterday.

Most got either $50 or $100 after telling him their stories about layoffs and other economic woes. But a few walked away with up to $3,000.

While the gesture was a publicity stunt for a classified ad web site bailoutbooth.com, the recipients didn't seem to mind.

To tell Bailout Bill your layoff or economic woe story, visit bailoutbooth.com and he'll decide to bail you out or not. And if you're lucky enough to be bailed out, he'll send you your money driectly!

PIX's man-on-the-scene reporter Chris Glorioso took the Hip Hop bus down from New York City to Washington, D.C. to cover President elect Barack Obama's inauguration. Follow his coverage as he brings you the sights, sounds and personal stories of those in the nation's capital.

Just visit www.wpix.com/inauguration_or_bust.

There has been much speculation surrounding the cause of the plane crash in the Hudson River yesterday, the most prominent one being that a flock of geese caused the aircraft's engines to fail.

Aviation expert, attorney, and commercial pilot Brian Alexander reveals that birds pose a problem to airplanes more often than what one might assume. According to him, between seven to ten thousand bird strikes occur each year, leading to plane damages. Alexander points out that New York sites such as LaGuardia and Kennedy Airports have issues with "bird ingestion" due to their location near landfills and water.

Alexander lauded Flight 1549 pilot Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger for the calm and collected way in which he handled the situation. According to Alexander, it was the pilot's cool-headedness and safety-consciousness that made him "tailor-made" to handle the dilemma before him. He emphasized that we could not have prepared for what happened, and that it was "a once-in-a-lifetime thing."

Alexander hopes that we will learn from this unfortunate incident by focusing on improving our technology, although he allows that "we can't make engines fail-safe."

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Dr. Steven McCarthy was on duty at St. Vincent's Hospital in Manhattan when US Airways Flight 1549 crashed into the Hudson River yesterday. As the hospital's Director of Emergency Medical Services, McCarthy was simply working on charts in his office when he suddenly became inundated with calls regarding the crash.

"We didn't know what to expect," said McCarthy, rehashing that he and his staff only knew that there were about 150 to 200 people aboard the plane that plummeted into the Hudson River. They expected the arrival of a slew of victims, suffering both from hypothermia and trauma. The hospital quickly went into crisis mode and all help involved breathed "a sigh of relief" when merely seven passengers with mild hypothermia came through the hospital doors to be treated. McCarthy observed nothing too serious--merely mild "bumps and bruises."

However, McCarthy does warn against the mental strain the incident will have on many of the victims: "People will need counseling down the line..We can't ignore the mental health aspects of it." The mental health staff at St. Vincent's Hospital has and will continue to treat those who have been traumatized by the accident.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

James and Susan Galvacky of Belmar, New Jersey were among the first passengers on a ferry boat who witnessed the US Airways crash first-hand. The couple was going to the city for a doctor's appointment. Upon encountering the scene, James had thought that the plane was a boat that had flipped over, and soon realized otherwise.

The two helped in the rescue efforts by getting people out of the water, as well as those who clung on to the plane's wings, and onto the boat. They found that most of the passengers aboard the fallen aircraft were too in shock to be screaming; their demeanor was calm, despite the freezing waters in which they were immersed.

Susan did her part in placating a crying and bleeding woman by holding her until she got medical attention. "It was like a dream," Susan said of the surrealistic scene that was before her. She was prompted to cry, but reminded herself that her aid was needed. She and her husband were just two of the many good samaritans who became heroes yesterday.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Former Port Authority Commissioner and senior fellow of the Homeland Security Department at Long Island University Bruce Blakeman spoke with John about the plan that was enacted upon yesterday's US Airways accident.

Blakeman deemed what followed the incident the "perfect rescue": "The airline went down at the right place and at the eright time for this time of the year...All of the private and governmental assets were in place."

According to him, incidents such as this, along with possible terrorist attacks and inclement weather are those which personnel such as the Port Authority, FDNY, the Coast Guard, and the FBI train to deal with on a daily basis. The training occurs in conjunction with New York Waterways and Circle Line. The well-coordinated rescue effort is a result of this thorough preparation.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

Circle Line Captain Mike Duffy spoke with Sukanya about the part he played in rescuing passengers in yesterday's US Airways crash into the Hudson River.

Duffy was systematic in recruiting all available rescue personnel onto the scene--members of the FDNY, NYPD, and EMS, along with personnel on commuter ferries worked with each other to launch divers into the river. Duffy witnessed passengers clinging on to the wings of the sunken plane, as well as using its inflatable slides as rafts.

Recollected Duffy of his impulse to help, "You don't think of it at the time; the adrenaline's just running, so you do what's necessary without thinking of anything else." Duffy also employed an available 4 o'clock Circle Line boat to assist with rescue efforts.

"Everyone was calm; all boats in the area were coordinated with each other...It went surprisingly well," remarked Duffy.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW AFTER THE JUMP...

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

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

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

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

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

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

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

For the third day in a row - and the fourth in less than a week - Long Island Rail Road commuters can expect significant delays Tuesday morning, and possibly beyond, as they continue to deal with the fallout from the worst LIRR accident in 15 years, officials said.

To see if your line is affected, visit www.mta.info/alert/alertlirr.htm.

Click here to read the full story and watch the video.

Long Island Railroad passengers can expect extra cancellations, schedule changes and delays this morning due to yesterday's train derailment. The derailment is still under investigation and the MTA stated that "this incident is not related to the train sideswipe that occurred in Jamaica on November 19."

The CW11's Tamsen Fadal was live at the Jamaica Center train station in Queens with how your commute could be affected.

The MTA stated, "The Monday AM Rush service plan includes cancellation of 12 westbound AM rush trains. As a result, there will be residual delays from added station stops and not all scheduled connections will be available at Jamaica Station to Penn Station, Flatbush Avenue-Brooklyn, Hunterspoint Avenue, and Long Island City. LIRR station personnel will be available at Jamaica to assist customers with service information. The modified plan also includes service changes for the eastbound AM Rush."

Transit officials recommend that customers check the MTA's Service Alert website for information about PM train schedules.

To see if your line is affected, visit www.mta.info/alert/alertlirr.htm.

WATCH THE VIDEO AFTER THE JUMP...

Neither Senators John McCain nor Barack Obama can get to the White House without going through New York first. The state has polled double digits in Obama’s favor throughout this election. However, McCain vowed on Primary Day to make New York part of his national campaign.

In fact, McCain has strong ties to New York. He and Mayor Michael Bloomberg have been close since Bloomberg first ran for mayor seven years ago. And the mayor returned the favor this presidential election season.

McCain has made dozens of visits to New York City. He visited his daughter Megan while she was a student at Columbia University from 20003 to 2007 and gave the commencement speech two years ago. Columbia also happens to be Obama’s alma mater, where he graduated in 1983. Obama also lived in an apartment building on East 94th Street while he was an undergrad.

Like McCain, Obama returned to New York dozens of times since he declared his presidential candidacy 21 months ago. And it’s no secret he has a lot of supporters in the Big Apple. In fact, New Yorkers make the most “get out to vote” calls to other states from the Obama campaign's phone banks.

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

Though it has been seven years since the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, memories of the tragedy are still fresh in our minds. Even more everlasting are the photographs from that fateful day, illustrating faces stricken with terror and fear.

But what of the photographers who arrived on scene to capture the unfolding disaster as others were running away from it?

Behind the Lens: Covering 9/11 is a new documentary that tells the story of four photojournalists who, along with firemen, police officers and fellow journalists, risked their lives to show the world images of a crisis. The film premieres tonight, September 10 at 6pm at the New Filmmakers Film Festival.

Featured in the documentary are photographers Don Halasy and Bolivar Arellano of The New York Post, and David Handschuh and Todd Maisel of The New York Daily News. Both publications are major daily newspapers in New York City.

"Bringing never before seen video from Ground Zero and coupled with in-depth interviews from photojournalists, the audience is given a behind the scenes view into the unique world of gathering news in a crisis. We learn the intimate details of what these photojournalists endured to cover this atrocity; from being buried alive to lensing photos that continue to create controversy and now sit in the Library of Congress"states Covering911.com.

"From a cleanup worker who believes he’s found a survivor to a fireman’s widow burying her husband to an FBI technician separating bones from rubble," according to the film's description, this documentary goes beyond what happened on September 11. It also emphasizes the emotional toll victims, families and these photographers had to endure. And those kinds of wounds don't heal quickly

For information about the screening, visit covering911.com/news.htm.

HAVANA (AP) - Winds are howling and heavy rains falling across Havana as Hurricane Ike continues its westward trek across Cuba.

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

New poll numbers suggest John McCain is getting a bounce following the Republican convention. However, the race between McCain and Barack Obama remains close.

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

As airports around the country prepare for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, some travelers are already taking out the Excedrin. Sure, traveling for the holidays can cause a lot of stress and plenty more headaches ... but that's if you're not prepared.The TSA has tips to help you alleviate the stress of traveling.

We went one-on-one with Academy Award Winner Cate Blanchett about her upcoming role as the legendary singer Bob Dylan, here's what she had to say about being cast as a man in the biopic "I'm Not There."

I'm Not There will be in theaters on November 21, 2007.

Documentary film director Amir Bar-Lev spoke with us at length about his experiences with the family of 4-year-old Marla Olmstead, the painting prodigy at the center of a major controversy. In our web-extra, Bar-Lev tells us how questions about the authenticity of her paintings affected the family, and what Marla now knows about the allegations about her work.

My Kid Could Paint That! is in theaters today.

Residents got a rude awakening yesterday when a tornado touched down in a quiet Brooklyn neighborhood, uprooting trees and tearing apart sidewalks. View photos of the destruction left behind in its wake.