Stealth the Windows taskbar? Windows key bindable?

Even when auto-hiding the Windows taskbar, there is a small strip of grey along the bottom of the screen. How can I get rid of that strip? I still want to use the taskbar, I just don't want it showing until I need it.

I am using a program called 'Taskbar Activate' which kills that grey strip, but the strip comes back when anything activates the system tray. Is there any other program you guys know of?

Also, I'd like to bind the Windows key function to a shortcut so that I can click on a shortcut and the Start menu will appear (I've stealthed the Start button). However, I don't know what command activates when I press the Windows key, can anyone else help?

Muchos gratias amigos. :)

I know someone that would resize the vertical settings on their monitor to get rid of the grey bar.:) Unfortunately I don't know the answer to your questions.