Tim’s time arrives Tim Vincent has gone from “interim” to “permanent” status – now that he’s been named the official New York correspondent for “Access Hollywood.”

“Tim has the smarts and the all-important attitude – and his British roots allow him to bring an entirely fresh and unique storytelling ability to the show,” said Red Bull-gargling “AH” executive producer Rob Silverstein. “Tim completes a murderer’s row of talent, unrivaled in entertainment news.” Tim anchored the British version of “AH” before moving here.

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Ellen DeGeneres, with the help of P.A. Houston, provides a priceless Valentine’s Day surprise for Jerrod Pace and his N.Y.-based actress girlfriend, Alecia Whitaker, on today’s “Ellen DeGeneres Show” (10 a.m./Ch. 4). I’m not going to go into detail here, but it entails Sardi’s, green-screen technology and a shocking twist. They’re still talking about this one over in the halls of Telepictures.

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If you’ve ever had the hankering to appear on “Wheel of Fortune” – and you know who you are – here’s your chance with the first-ever “You Could Be On Wheel Of Fortune Sweepstakes,” which kicks off today through Feb. 25. The 100 winners will be flown to L.A. to witness a taping of the show – and will get the chance to audition for a spot as a contestant. Wheeloffortune.com has details.

Last, but not least:

* The WB’s “7th Heaven” has been picked up for a 10th season – making it the longest-running family drama in TV history.

* “GDNY’s” Mike Woods hands out roses today (7-9 a.m./Ch. 5) at the PATH station in Jersey City to people who say “I Love You” to their Valentines on camera.

* Maury Povich on tomorrow’s “Howard Stern Show” (7:30 a.m./K-Rock).

* N.Y.’s Tammy Cross gets an “Ambush Makeover” this Friday (1 p.m./ Ch. 5) during the show’s “You Look Like Your Pet Week” (hint: she takes in stray cats).

* “Early Show” co-anchor Rene Syler was honored by The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in Dallas.

* So how did “Y&R” star Shemar Moore surprise his Valentine? “While my ex-girlfriend was away, I had her entire kitchen redone!” he says. Note that she’s his ex now. Shemar stars in “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” Feb. 25.

* Congrats to “GMA” director John D’Incecco and his wife, Glamour PR director Meg D’Incecco, on the arrival of son L.J.