Here are the big stories we're following for you today.
- He’s being described as the “good shepherd” this morning. Captain Richard Phillips' is now safe. Three of his pirate captors are now dead. Another is U.S. custody after the Navy Seals pulled off a pinpoint and flawless rescue operation on the high seas. Maritime experts are saying this should be a wakeup call to the growing piracy problem. Right now 200 people are still being held hostage in Somalia and their captors aren’t in sharpshooters’ crosshairs.
- We're getting lots of comments on our viewer hotline about the dramatic rescue and how to stop the rampant piracy off Somalia’s coast. We want to hear from you on this story and whatever else is on your mind. Call us at 877-MY-AM-FIX and you could be on the air today.
- This morning we begin a special series called Drug Nation. It’s a serious look at drug addiction in this country and how it’s affecting every community, from inner cities to the tranquil suburbs. We're also searching for solutions. Today: Heroin and its grip on kids in this country. A bag of this poison can be cheaper than a six-pack of beer – and some children thinks it's safer.
- And - breathe easy, America. You finally have a new first pup. The campaign promise fulfilled. The Obamas are getting a Portuguese water dog. What are the Obama girls calling it?