getting to the bay bridge. the rest of the east bay is looking standard. the "today" show is just ahead, but we will continue "today in the bay" on roku and other streaming platforms. you can see it online or on our smartphone app. >> i was going to say enjoy the dry weather while you can -- >> yeah, right now. >> get out there and then get back in. >> keep that umbrella handy. hi, everybody. good thursday morning. we're following breaking news from the middle east. >> yeah a story unfolding as we come on the air. good morning, it's february the 29th, this is "today." deadly violence. dozens killed, hundreds more hurt during a confrontation over

humanitarian aid in gaza. officials there pointing the finger at the israeli military. we are live in the region with the very latest and the impact on those tense cease-fire negotiations. supreme court showdown. the nation's highest court agreeing to take up donald trump's case for presidential immunity. his trial over interfering in the 2020 election, on hold. this as trump is removed the from the ballot in yet another state, just weeks before the primary. so how will it all play out? we'll break it down. out of control. dangerous wildfires sweep across texas, destroying neighborhoods and forcing new evacuations. >> these fires are just moving quicker than anybody can kind of get around at this point. >> while overnight, severe storms slammed the northeast. al will have everything we need to know. stunning shake up. senate republican leader mitch mcconnell revealing his plans to step down from that powerful post. >> it's time for the next generation of leadership. >> just ahead, his emotional announcement and the race to

replace him that's already underway. all that, plus, legend lost. >> i'm paranoid about everything in my life, even at home, on my stationary bike, i have a rearview mirror, which i'm not thrilled about. >> tributes pouring in for comedy icon richard lewis, led by his lifelong friend, larry david. this morning, we will remember lewis' remarkable life and career. and taking the leap! they have the rarest of birthdays, an exclusive club born on a day that comes around just once every four years. >> we are 12 years old! >> 3 years old! >> i'm 6 years old. >> and we are throwing them a huge leap day party, right here in studio 1a, today, thursday, february 29th, 2024. ♪♪ >> announcer: from nbc news,

this is "today" with savannah guthrie and hoda kotb. from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. well, good morning! good to see you. welcome to "today." so happy you're with us on this very unique thursday morning, by the way. >> i know, happy leap day! february 29th. and we're going to mark the occasion with a unique group of people. look, they only get to celebrate their birthday once every four years. >> yeah, we're going to talk to them in just a bit. i'm mesmerized by them. meantime, it was another night of wild weather across the country, heavy winds, plummeting temperatures here in the northeast, there's snow out west, the deadly wildfires in texas. al, of course, is tracking all of it. we are also following this morning that major announcement from the supreme court, it happened late yesterday. and there are big implications for the 2024 election. the court has agreed to hear donald trump's case for presidential immunity over whether he tried to unlawfully overturn the 2020 election. but we are going to begin this morning with breaking news from the middle east. a deadly confrontation in gaza over the distribution of humanitarian aid. nbc's raf sanchez joins us now with the very latest.

hey, raf, good morning. >> reporter: hoda, good morning. this is a fast-moving and developing situation, but here's what we know. early this morning, a crowd of palestinians gathered on a coastal road in gaza city. hoping to get food and flour at an aid distribution point. the palestinian authority says israeli forces opened fire on that crowd of unarmed civilians. they are calling this a massacre. the israeli military is saying this was two separate incidents albeit close together and just a few minutes apart. they are saying first there was a stampede as people swarmed around those trucks. then they are saying israeli troops opened fire on a group that approached their positions. they released video of what they say shows the stampede. but i asked them if they had any evidence to support their claim that this crowd posed a threat to israeli troops. they said at this point they have nothing to release.

now, we are just over the border from gaza right now. but we are unable to get inside to verify for ourselves exactly what happened here. but hospitals in gaza are saying dozens of people were killed, potentially hundreds more injured. the healthcare system all be collapsed in gaza, not enough ambulances. we are seeing wounded people being carried out on donky carts. and this is a situation that is developing rapidly. it is also pushed the death toll in gaza, according to the hamas-run health ministry, over 30,000 people. the majority of them women and children. we are hearing from the white house national security council this morning. i want to read you that statement. they say, this is a serious incident and we are looking into the reports. we mourn the loss of innocent life and recognize the dire humanitarian situation in gaza where innocent palestinians are

just trying to feed their families. this underscores the importance of expanding and sustaining the flow of humanitarian assistance into gaza, including through a potential temporary cease fire. we continue to work day and night to achieve that outcome. we heard president biden say this week he hopes a cease fire deal could be in place by monday. that's not looking likely. hoda? >> raf, thank you. now to that major decision by the supreme court. agreeing to hear arguments on donald trump's immunity claims and what it means for the legal case he's facing as well as the 2024 presidential race.t comple. we'll start with nbc's senior legal correspondent laura jarrett. laura, good morning. >> hey, savannah, good morning. the immunity issue one that could make-or-break the prosecution case against donald trump. the supreme court's involvement on this could hand him a win or loss. but either way the calender works to his advantage making the chances he will face trial before election day this year on

charges of trying to overturn the last election more remote by the day. this morning the u.s. supreme court handing donald trump the gift of time. the justices agreeing to decide whether the republican front-runner should be immune from federal charges because his attempts to reverse the 2020 election happened while he was still in office. >> we will never give up, we will never concede. >> reporter: in a one-page order the high court saying it will hear arguments in the case the week of april 22nd. but with no firm date for its final ruling, the prospect of a federal criminal trial being completed before the november election becoming increasingly unrealistic. and if the supreme court rules in mr. trump's favor, the charges against him in washington, d.c. wiped out completely. >> you cannot allow a president to be out there without immunity. they don't have immunity, you don't have a presidency. >> the stakes sky high for the

former president who has cast the prosecution itself as election interference. and special counsel jack smith's team which has accused mr. trump of defrauding the government he once led. >> my office will seek a speedy trial that our evidence can be tested in court. >> but the case has been beset by appeals on the immunity question with lower courts finding mr. trump should not be shielded from prosecution. the trump campaign seizing on the supreme court taking up the case as another fund-raising opportunity. with the former president pressing his case on social media. this as the high court is set to rule on another issue with major implications for the future of the presidential race. the justices currently weighing colorado's move to ban mr. trump from the ballot. voters there set to go to the polls next week on super tuesday. and late wednesday illinois became the third state to find the former president ineligible to serve under the constitution's insurrection clause under the 14th amendment in light of his role on january

6th. now, meanwhile, a significant development in a different trump case. an appeals court judge here in new york rejecting mr. trump's effort to avoid paying that massive civil fraud decision as he tries to appeal that decision. his attorneys saying in a legal filing yesterday he may need to sell-off some of his properties to cover it if he can't get a bond or is forced to pay the full amount, guys. >> okay, let's go back to the supreme court decision. kind of lay out how this could play out in terms of the legal calender and political calender. >> reporter: yeah, let's do both versions, the slow and the fast, right? let's say they take the case up the last week of april now. say they came back the next day after oral argument with a decision even if they said he loses it, he's not immune, the case wouldn't just spring back to life, he wouldn't immediately go to trial the next day because he gets the benefit of all this time when the case has been essentially frozen on ice.

>> they said they stopped the clock. >> exactly. he'd get roughly three months tacked onto that time. but normally they would hear big decisions and they would decide the case roughly as you know the end of june. so if they decide the end of june, then we're creeping into potentially september, we're now past the republican convention. it's just unclear whether in fact the trial could happen at all even assuming everything stayed on track. >> all right, laura, thank you very much. all right, let's move now to the split screen moment playing out at the southern border today. president biden and donald trump making dueling high stakes visits to texas, highlighting the battle over immigration and its impact on the 2024 race. nbc's senior white house correspondent gabe gutierrez joins us now num brownsville, texas. gabe, what are you expecting today? >> reporter: hoda, good morning. it'll be a dramatic split screen between both presidential front runners amid a record number of migrant crossings at the southern border. this is president biden's second border visit since taking office. former president trump will be

just over 300 miles away in eagle pass, texas. president biden is hoping to highlight the need to pass that bipartisan security deal that boosts resources and tightens rules. you'll remember it failed in congress due in part to former president trump's opposition. mr. trump, meanwhile, is expected to capitalize on those record number of crossings and put the blame squarely on president biden. the form president is promising to caro out the largest massive deportation operation in history if re-elected, hoda. >> gabe, there's another big headline out there. president biden received his annual physical yesterday. what were the take-aways there? >> reporter: yeah, hoda. president biden was declared fit for duty and overall healthy by his doctor. the president telling reporters yesterday there's nothing different than last year. we did learn mr. biden's gait has stiffened because of wear and tear on his spine and he's started using a sleep apnia

machine. following that special counsel report the white house press secretary said his doctors do not think he needs a cognitive test. >> gabe, thanks. now to that changing of the guard on capitol hill. republican mitch mcconnell, the longest serving senate leader in history has announced he will step down from his leadership post in november. and this morning was likely to be a fierce battle to succeed him. it's already under way. nbc's senior capitol hill correspondent garret haake joins us with more. >> reporter: hey, savannah, good morning. mcconnell will leave his leadership post but the party he helmed for so long is changing, and he says it's time for the leaders to change with it. this morning a changing of the guard on capitol hill. >> it's time for the next generation of leadership. >> reporter: long time senate republican leader mitch mcconnell said he'll step down from that post in november after an unprecedented 18 years

leading his party and will retire at the end of his term in 2027. at times emotional. >> i love the senate. >> reporter: embracing his controversial image. >> i still have enough gas in my tank to thoroughly disappoint my critics. >> reporter: it comes after the 82-year-old's freezing episodes last summer where he was unable to speak. mcconnell sidestepped questions about his health afterwards with the congressional doctor saying they were not the result of a stroke or seizure. mcconnell has seen his influence in the party diminished as he's faced criticism from some fellow gop senators since his falling out with former president trump over january 6th, who has attacked him and his wife repeatedly online and on the campaign trail. >> washington republicans like mitch mcconnell is the absolute worst. >> reporter: mcconnell ultimately voted to acquit mr. trump in his second impeachment

trial while acknowledging -- >> president trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day. >> reporter: president biden paying tribute to mcconnell. with former president trump now consolidating control of the party, the battle to succeed mcconnell has already begun. with several senators acknowledging it will likely be a contest between top republicans known as the three johns. wyoming senator john barasso, texas senator john cornyn, and south dakota senator john thune. ohio senator jd vance, a trump ally asked who he'd support. >> well, okay. this comes as leaders in congress just reached a temporary deal to avert the government shutdown, so what's the latest there? >> reporter: yeah, this new bipartisan plan is to push back friday's funding deadline by another week, which should give congress time to pass bills to

fund half the government by next friday, the other half by mid-march. if everything goes according to that plan, that avoids a shutdown, but every single step of this requires votes in both the house and senate. so in this congress, savannah, i don't think we're entirely in the clear until the votes are taken. >> all right, garret haakee expn

the coming days. craig? >> improved conditions there. guad, thank you. >> let us turn to mr. roker. a lot on your dance card here. >> it sure is. and unfortunately we have red

flag warnings now from iowa into nebraska, parts of kansas and missouri for 6 million people. strong winds are now developing, low relative humidity. those temperatures have been really warm, so we're going to be watching that. next big storm is coming into the pacific north west and much of california. and in fact we're going to be looking at not just heavy rain but massive snowstorms, blizzard warnings in fact, even, as we move into the sierra. we're talking about the sierra nevada seeing extremely heavy snow, snow conditions dropping to 8,000 feet. blue canyon 7 feet, 1 to 3 feet in pollack pines and colfax looking at 1 to 3 inches. the rest of the country that fire risk in the midplains and some rain into northern texas. we're going to get to your local forecast in the next 30 seconds. which everyone will love. well. almost everyone.

♪♪ ♪♪ ♪♪ sorry, frank. ♪♪ made for dipping. lay's wavy. stay golden. good thursday morning. the time is 7:18. we are already seeing the rain spotty at times and those clouds arriving as we are going to be in for a soggy next couple of days. take a look at the inland valleys. we will see the rain starting off light and intensifying as we go into tomorrow night and into the midnight hours of saturday. notice also we have the potential of seeing low snow levels around the bay a and that's your latest weather. guys >> al, thank you so much

still ahead, mounting concerns and questions over princess kate's months-long absence from the public eye. nbc's molly hunter is in buckingham palace for us hey, molly >> hey, guys, good morning we are tracking it all the rumors are swirling and the palace is staying tight-lipped we'll have more, coming up , and touching tributes pouring in for comedy legend richard lewis from fellow stars and his many, many fans. we'll remember his unique life and career but first on a thursday morning, this is "today" on nbc

"overflowing with ideas and energy." that's the san francisco chronicle endorsing democrat katie porter for senate over all other options. porter is "easily the most impressive candidate." "known for her grilling of corporate executives." with "deep policy knowledge." katie porter's housing plan has "bipartisan-friendly ideas to bring homebuilding costs down." and the chronicle praises "her ideas to end soft corruption in politics." let's shake up the senate. with democrat katie porter. i'm katie porter and i approve this message.

♪ celebrate special people on a very special day >> yeah. you know, today is february 29th, so we brought folks born on a leap day. we're going to celebrate we get to celebrate every four years, and we're going to do with it them today coming up after your local news.

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molina, floyd mitchell, lisa davis, and abdul pridgen, former sanly an dough police chief. mayor thao says she's not participating. it takes place at city hall at 6:00 p.m. chp advising people not to travel through the weekend, and the storm is expected to produce whiteout conditions in the sierra. cinthia, how are things looking out there? >> the blizzard warning goes in effect at 10:00 today and continues through sunday, so a couple of rough days in the sierra. we have lights amount of rain showing up, and as we progress this timeline forward through lunchtime, the heavier bands of rain are picking up through marin and napa and sonoma

counties. as we go into late tonight and early tomorrow morning, we will continue the similar fashion, spotty showers. it's a good idea to bring the umbrella with you. we will be looking at stronger cells pushing through as we go into those friday evening plans. might be a good idea to start planning ahead because we are looking at heavy cells of rain pushing through early saturday as well. notice the shades of pinks and pu what do i see in peter dixon? i see my husband... the father of our girls. i see a public servant. a man who served under secretary clinton in the state department... where he took on the epidemic of violence against women in the congo. i see a fighter, a tenacious problem-solver... who will go to congress and protect abortion rights and our democracy. because he sees a better future for all of us. i'm peter dixon and i approved this message.

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that's the san francisco chronicle endorsing democrat katie porter for senate over all other options. porter is "easily the most impressive candidate." "known for her grilling of corporate executives." with "deep policy knowledge." katie porter's housing plan has "bipartisan-friendly ideas to bring homebuilding costs down." and the chronicle praises "her ideas to end soft corruption in politics." let's shake up the senate. with democrat katie porter. i'm katie porter and i approve this message. ♪ this girl is on fire ♪ >> the gophers are on the board. clark again, somebody is in her bag! >> she is on fire. 7:30, iowa phenom caitlin clark breaking yet another record overnight.

legend lynette woodard for the most points by a college women's basketball play clark passed the kansas jayhawks legend lynette woodard for the most points by a college women's basketball player. as you may know, clark broke the ncaa women's scoring record a couple weeks ago so what's next well, more records to be broken. clark is just 18 points away from passing the record, pistol pete pete maravich's record, as craig told me. >> pistol pete, as craig told me that's the all-time record for both men and women >> it will probably happen in like the first quarter >> i know. >> they play on sunday by the way, that's a record that has stood for decades. a lot of folks who didn't think that would ever topple we'll keep following that one. we're also going to start this half hour with some new questions and new concerns swirling around the royal family >> princess kate remains out of the public eye, as she recovers from abdominal surgery and just yesterday, her husband, prince william, suddenly pulled out of a major event he was set to attend. nbc's molly hunter is at buckingham palace with more. hey, molly, good morning >> hey, guys, good morning, from a very rainy buckingham palace, lots of new questions.

now, we have not seen kate, the princess of wales since december, since before that planned abdominal surgery. but when prince william pulled out of an event this week, speculation kicked into high gear take a look. this morning, the prince of wales is back out in public, while the public still waits for a glimpse of his beloved wife, kate, the princess of wales, who hasn't been seen since christmas day. the palace was clear last month she would not pick royal duties back up until after easter, following their historical practice of not sharing private health information so we're seeing increasing rumors the difference in this case is, kate has disappeared we haven't seen kate since actually december last year. and because of that, that's fueled the speculation but in the age of social media and fierce attention on the glamorous wales family, speculation reaching a fever pitch. 2024.

>> kate middleton, where is she? >> we haven't seen her in the year of 2024 >> reporter: and even american celebrities. >> i'm going to make kate middleton -- >> prince william bowing out of a memorial for his godfather at the last minute this week for undisclosed personal matters a palace source then responding to questions about the princess of wales' health saying only, she continues to be doing well whatever information the royal family choose to disclose about the health of senior royals is really up to them. >> reporter: but the heir to the throne still making a solo appearance at the glittering baftas last week, an event where kate usually dazzles on the red carpet prince william overheard saying, he hasn't seen as many films this year because of everything going on with his wife and speaking out last month. >> i would like to take this opportunity to say thank you also for the kind messages of support. >> reporter: the royal health questions have reached new heights, given that king charles is also out of the public eye, receiving cancer treatment, hospitalized at the same time as kate

>> it's wonderful to see you looking so well. >> well, it's all done by mirrors. >> reporter: but the 75-year-old monarch continues some state duties behind the scenes and in the absence of official answers, the curious and nosey public and social media are filling the void >> yeah, and the palace doesn't usually comment much on things like this, but do you think that may change do you think they would give more updates going forward >> reporter: well, hoda, we've been asking, the palace was very clear last month that they would only share updates about kate's health if there was significant new information, but as of right now, we still don't know why kate got that surgery. we still do not know what kind of cancer charles has. but as of today, what's very clear to us is the palace feels no pressure to provide any new information. hoda >> molly, thank you so much. we appreciate it coming up, the emotional new plea for help from patients and doctors left in limbo by that controversial ruling on embryos. first, vicky nguyen is here with some mounting concerns ove

called the most a popular app that some have called the most dangerous app in america. >> good morning. temu is the world's most popular shopping app but this morning it's under fire facing two class action lawsuits accusing the app of having access to everything on your phone, including photos and text messages how the company is responding, plus what you need to know about all shopping apps. that's next right here on "today." looks like food, it smells like food, it's what dogs are supposed to be eating. no living being should ever eat processed food for every single meal of their life. it's amazing to me how many people write in about their dogs changing for the better. the farmer's dog is just our way to help people take care of them. ♪

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with everything we need to know. vick, good morning. >> hey, craig, savannah, and hoda. we first told you about some of these concerns last june when our investigation uncovered the lack of transparency around how this app collects and uses its customer data. apple even warned the company to update its disclosures or it would be kicked off the app store. now dozens of plaintiffs allege temu has been misleading its users and accessing far more app temu making its m second super bowl commercial appearance but now all eyes are on temu for a different reason two class action lawsuits allege the app has an arsenal of tools to gain access to what they call literally everything on your phone, including your contacts, camera, microphone, and more attorney steve berman represents the plaintiffs in one of the lawsuits you're alleging that temu is collecting text messages and photos what proof do you have

there's a wide consensus that it is the most dangerous app in america. period. >> reporter: in a statement to nbc news, temu denies the >> various experts who have study the temu application, and there's a wide consensus that it is the most dangerous app in america. period >> reporter: in a statement to nbc news, temu denies the allegations, writing in part, we collect information with a clear and singular purpose, to provide and continually enhance our products and services for our users, adding, we only collect and use data necessary for specific justified scenarios the ecommerce platform has a massive reach, temu was the world's most popular marketplace app in 2023, with 338 million downloads. >> i got about 12 pieces of makeup for 30ish dollars >> reporter: it's easy to see why it's so popular. the site offers millions of products at huge discounts despite the savings, temu has faced backlash from customers, complaining about missing items and product quality. >> why did i think it would be a good idea to buy perfume off of temu >> in june, we asked patrick jackson with the is internet security company disconnect to

analyze the temu app he found that it was protecting more personal data than it told users, including ip addresses which can be used to determine a shopper's location, sexual orientation and political affiliation. at that time the company said it is solely for enhancing our service and we do not sell it for money. after we shared our findings, apple told temu to fix the app the company says it complied, but after reanalyzing the app today, jackson says temu has turned on certificate pinning, which makes it harder for researchers to see what kind of data the app is collecting and they've updated their privacy nutrition label, acknowledging they now collect precise locations. jackson says that's detailed enough to tell within 15 feet of where you are. >> it collects the most personal data of any app on the marketplace and people don't know that they're at risk. >> reporter: well, when it come

app store, apple says to downloading any app from the app store, apple says users can decide what information to share and limit it from third-party app, the first time an app wants to use your information, they send a request with an expiration that. but here is the thing, how many times do you consent to something when you download an app. >> you just say yes. >> you don't read it, it's miles long the thing that our experts say is delete any apps that you don't trust. if you still want to shop with any shopping app, go to the website. it's collecting a lot less data about you that way >> wow >> thank you, vicky. >> thank you, vicky. another check of the weather? mr. roker? >> today is the last day of meteorological winter. so we thought, hey, take a look at february. it's a record february 92% of the lower 48 states, warmer-than-average february temperatures and when we dig in a little deeper, it's the warmest february ever for places like grand forks, minneapolis, alpena, columbia, ft. smith, paducah, syracuse, albany, south

bend, and chicago as well. so now we're getting ready to start march. you know, march, in like a lion, out like a lamb. let's take a look and see how march will be coming in. oh, yes! wow. i think that's my stomach, actually so portland coming in like a lion, rain and snow, 46. san francisco, rain and wind in minneapolis. gusty, 57 in atlanta showers and thunderstorms and 47 how about a little lamb? new york, sunny skies and 48 degrees, it will be nice there tampa, partly sunny and 80 dallas, sunny and 71 degrees phoenix, sunny and warm and a temperature of 79 degrees. we l temu. good thursday morning. it's 7:44. we are already seeing light rain arriving in the bay area, and that's going to be the next couple of days filled with rain. as we look at our inland 7-day forecast, it will get heavier at

times on friday night and early on saturday. it's going to be chilly, bringing down the low snow levels to 1,000 to 2,000 feet around the bay area. notice our temperatures in the mornings will go down into weather. guys >> al, thank you coming up, guys, our morning boost is on the way, but first, we are going to remember and celebrate the remarkable life and career of comedy icon, richard lewis. that's right after this. that'sa to help manage blood sugar response. uniquely designed with carbsteady. glucerna. bring on the day. ♪(song in french)♪ (♪♪) book in the hotels.com app to find your perfect somewhere. nothing comes close to this place in the morning.

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through a restricted program. before taking camzyos, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including current or planned pregnancy. today with camzyos, i don't lose my breath as often. my symptoms have improved, helping me go from expecting less to experiencing more. my name is mike. and this is my camzyos moment. call your cardiologist today and see if a camzyos moment may be in your future too. (♪♪) there's two things a young man wanna be - a cowboy or a gangster. and a gangster's outta style. i got back to my roots... we come from a long line of cowboys. my grandfather, my great-grandfather, my aunt even rode horses. when i see all of us out here on this ranch, i see how far our legacy can go. (♪♪) mmm...rainbow sprinkles, jammy filling and frosting?!

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♪ we're also back with a big loss in the world of entertainment. >> certainly are, guys, good morning. family, friends and fans are paying tribute to a one-of-a-kind comedian, the great richard lewis. nbc's joe fryer has a look back at his remarkable career joe? >> good morning. his publicist says the 76-year-old comedian died of a heart attack at his l.a. home. richard lewis has been making us laugh for decades, most recently starring alongside his childhood friend, larry david, in "curb your enthusiasm. they were bon in the same hospital, just days apart, and met at camp at age 12. david now one of many stars remembering the comedy legend. >> open the door >> i would rather not open the door >> reporter: on "curb your enthusiasm" richard lewis and larry david were bonded by bickering. >> you never call me, you always pick the restaurants >> what are we, married? i don't understand am i dating you? >> friendship that went well

beyond the show. in a tribute to lewis, david says he had that rare combination of being the funniest person and also the sweetest but today, he made me sob and for that, i'll never forgive him. >> it's a frightening profession i was a schmuck. i could have been a caterer, i realize now. >> reporter: as a stand-up comic, lewis found fame in the '80s >> would you welcome richard lewis! [ cheers and applause ]. >> reporter: his anxious, neurotic delivery reflected in the titles of his specials "i'm in pain," "i'm exhausted," "i'm doomed." he put his comedy chops to work in the mel brooks parody "robin hood: men in tights. >> i don't want to hear any bad news >> what type of news is it >> well, to be perfectly frank, it's bad >> i knew it >> reporter: and the sitcom, "anything but love." for four seasons, he shared the screen with jamie lee curtis, who said lewis was deep and so freaking funny, adding, he also is the reason i'm sober. that a

grace alone. lewis discussed his sobriety on "today" back in 2001. >> i mean, he helped me and i'm forever grateful to him for that act of grace alone. lewis discussed his sobriety on "today" back in 2001 >> i mean, i'm a very blessed guy. i mean, i never dreamt things would happen to me like they have >> reporter: last year, he revealed they was diagnosed with parkinson's disease. >> i'm under a doctor's care, and everything is cool >> reporter: his presence still felt in the final season of "curb. this morning, fans are pointing to a now resonant clip in a recent episode, lewis playing a somewhat fictionalized version of himself telling his friend, larry, is in his will. >> i'm leaving you in my will. i'm tweaking it and you're in it >> no, no, don't do that >> it's done you're in. >> no, i have money, i don't need it. >> when i die, i want you to know how much i care about you >> the two real-life friends lovingly bickering on screen until the end. >> richard lewis was married for nearly 20 years. in a statement, his wife, joyce lipinski thanked everyone for their love, friendship, and support.

his "curb" co-star sheryl line says to be loved by richard lewis was a true gift. back to you. >> big loss. joe, thanks for that report. appreciate it. >> a great tribute a great tribute. all right, guys, coming up on the show, we've got two of our buddies here, former coaches of "the voice," "the voice" is back for season 25 they're teaming up we have a sneak peek at how miley cyrus and pharrell came together for a new track in fact, we'll play a little bit of it during pop start and it's leap day, everybody. we're throwing a big birthday bash for these folks, who we celebrate every four years we've got to go big, after a check of your local news, your weather, and these messages. ♪♪ ♪♪ ♪♪ keep living. we'll keep repairing. new dove bond strength.

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otezla may cause severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. some people taking otezla had depression, suicidal thoughts or weight loss. upper respiratory tract infection and headache may occur. with clearer skin movie night, is a groovy night (♪♪) live in the moment. ask your doctor about otezla. good morning. it's 7:56. i am marcus washington. here's a look at what is happening now. >> reporter: if you are thinking about heading to the snow this weekend heading out on 580, don't do it. that's the recommendation of people that live in place like truckee and the chp. they said travel will be extremely dangerous with blizzard conditions, and whiteout conditions and 100 plus

miles per hour near zero visibility, long delays and road closures. i am ginger conejero saab. oakland will take another step to find its police chief. in a letter to the police commission, mayor thao said she's not participating. the public is invited to submit questions on the city's website. that forum takes place at 6:00 tonight at city hall. rain is heading right here to our area. >> yeah, don't go to the sierra because there's a blizzard warning today through sunday, so dangerous travel up there. here at home we are dealing with our own weather, seeing clouds in parts of san josé. there was some mist and drizzle earlier out there on the golden gate bridge, but wrapping it altogether for you for the next couple of days, we will start with spotty showers for your

thursday. bring your umbrella and the jacket and make sure you hold on to everything. bring things inside, because the storm will make thing colder, and we are looking at more snow levels around the bay area. we have another pattern for next week, marcus. >> fair warning. get prepared. we will have another local we will have another local news update "overflowing with ideas and energy." that's the san francisco chronicle endorsing democrat katie porter for senate over all other options. porter is "easily the most impressive candidate." "known for her grilling of corporate executives." with "deep policy knowledge." katie porter's housing plan has "bipartisan-friendly ideas to bring homebuilding costs down." and the chronicle praises "her ideas to end soft corruption in politics." let's shake up the senate. with democrat katie porter. i'm katie porter and i approve this message.

it's 8:00 on "today. coming up, rejected. new details on that american ballerina detained in russia a court there rejecting her appeal this morning. her boyfriend speaking out >> she needs a lawyer. >> we're live with the very

latest deadly violence. dozens killed, hundreds more hurt during a confrontation over humanitarian aid in gaza officials there pointing the finger at the israeli military we are live in the region with the very latest and the impact on those tense cease-fire negotiations then, simon says a first look at the new documentary on simon >> i want to go and follow the music, but you never know what you're going to find along the way. >> with never-before-seen footage from the iconic singer/songwriter's career the details in "popstart." plus, taking the leap! it's the party that only happens once every four years. leap day birthdays and we are celebrating those major milestones -- >> from sunup to sundown, just enjoy every moment of that day >> with some special surprises in store you won't want to skip. >> happy birthday! >> today, thursday, february

29th, 2024 ♪ >> today on leap day -- >> i'm turning 13. >> i'm turning 3 >> i'm turning 16! >> and i'm turning 18 today! >> navajo nation >> shout-out to waukee, iowa >> visiting from carmel, south carolina >> arizona >> spring, texas >> and baltimore, maryland >> happy leap day! >> oh, my god, welcome back! it's thursday. what a fun morning this is terrific, it's, of course, leap day we're going to talk a lot about this a lot of leap babies out there and we'll have a party for them. however, last night, you two got together for a beautiful discussion in the great state of connecticut, and i heard it was amazing!

>> we had fun. >> we had a blast. savannah guthrie again brought down the house for those of you who do not know, she recently wrote a book called "mostly what god does". >> may i brag for one second it's number one on "the new york times. fyi. we just want to say, by the way, congratulations. she said "don't say it," i say, we say it. >> thank you very much let's get to our news at 8:00 >> we'll begin with breaking news from the middle east. dozens of palestinians killed during a confrontation at humanitarian aid station in gaza nbc's raf sanchez joins us now with the very latest raf, what can you tell us? >> well, hoda, this is a fast-moving and developing situation, but here's what we know early this morning, a crowd of palestinians gathered at an aid distribution point in gaza city. they were hoping to get food and flour. the palestinian authority says israeli forces opened fire on

that crowd of unarmed civilians. they are calling it a massacre an israeli official confirms israeli troops did use live fire, but they are saying that crowd posed a threat to the soldiers, not clear what that threat was they are also saying some of the casualties may have been caused by trampling in the crowd. israel has released drone footage of the incident, but it does not explain why israeli troops opened fire we do know, according to hospitals in gaza that dozens of people were killed, hundreds more injured and we are just on the other side of the gaza border here, but we are unable to get inside to verify exactly what happens today's bloody incident pushing the death toll in gaza, according to the hamas-run health ministry, to more than 30,000 people since october 7th. the majority of them, women and children and this is likely to make what were already difficult cease-fire negotiations harder

still. >> raf sanchez on the border. thank you. there a still. hoda >> raf sanchez on the border raf, thank you there are new and ominous signs from russia where a court rejected the appeal of an american ballerina detained on treason charges. it happened on a day when russian president vladimir putin renewed his threat of nuclear conflict with the west nbc's chief international correspondent keir simmons has the latest on all of that. keir, good morning >> savannah, good morning to you. ksnia's appeal was held in private, in a russian court. this morning we learned she lost that appeal. she will remain in prison. the ballerina with dual american citizenship is accused of treason for donating money to ukraine, savannah, less than $52. the court set another deadline of april the 6th, but she's the latest u.s. citizen to be held in russia, and journalist evan gerchowitz, who has been in custody for almost a year, accused of espionage, his newspaper, the wall street, says that he is innocent and was doing his work as a reporter as you mentioned, savannah, at the same time, a menacing split screen

president putin giving a keynote speech, highlighting recent advances in ukraine, though the battlefield there remains largely unchanged, saying he bows at the feet of russian, quote, heroes, calling for a minute of silence for soldiers he said are, quote, going through the meat grinder of war. his address shown, savannah, on giant screens around moscow, and including a thinly veiled nuclear threat if russia puts troops on the ground in ukraine, saying we, too, have weapons that can strike targets on their territory. savannah, putin is two weeks from an election, saying that we're a pillar of democracy, though, of course, when russia votes next month, there will only be one winner savannah >> keir simmons, thank you very much meanwhile, back here this morning, alabama lawmakers are moving to restore ivf procedures in the state, in the wake of that state's supreme court ruling that said embryos are children hundreds gathered at the

statehouse yesterday, sharing stories of heartache and confusion after the decision led to canceled appointments, even postpone pregnancies nbc's kathy park joins us once again from montgomery, alabama, with the latest on these developments kathy, good morning. >> hey, craig, good morning to you, that's right, this recent ivf ruling led to so much confusion and worry. some families are telling me they're actually going out of state to continue to pursuing their treatments these types of story appear to be sinking in, because some lawmakers believe a bill could be signed within days. this morning, alabama lawmakers feeling the pressure to resolve the deepening fallout that ended in vitro fertilization from a recent supreme court ruling >> this potentially could be a road map for other states to restrict access to ivf or a road map on how to protect access to ivf and family building. please use your voice. >> reporter: hundreds of patients, providers, and their supporters fighting to restore

ivf in alabama rallied front of the statehouse wednesday before meeting with legislators some sharing heartbreaking stories of putting their dreams of expanding their families on hold >> and how difficult is that waiting period for you right now? >> it's extremely difficult. we don't -- we don't know how long it's going to last. if there's not legislation passed, we are probably looking out of state at this point >> but as far as the actual transfer, that part has been canceled, unfortunately, until all of this can be figured out >> reporter: but republican-sponsored bills advance through committee hearings wednesday alabama lawmakers say they're working quickly to protect ivf access >> at the first opportunity it will be, to be able to pass it and sign, because in the bill, it says it becomes effective immediately. that could happen as soon as next wednesday >> the backlash in alabama becoming a national conversation on reproductive freedoms senator tammy duckworth, who conceived two children through ivf tried to expand ivf protections at the federal level, but senate republicans

blocked a bill wednesday >> having a child through ivf is a wonderful thing. it is not a crime, and it should not be punished. >> reporter: and back here in alabama, the attorney general's office said they would not prosecute ivf families or providers. meanwhile, taking a closer look at a new axios/ipsos poll, roughly two-thirds of americans say they oppose the recent alabama ruling, and in another key finding, one in three americans say they've gone through ivf or know someone who has. craig? >> kathy park for us there at the statehouse in alabama. kathy, thank you >> you know what i think it's time for >> yes. >> a morning boost, you guys let's turn this beat around. an automotive worker in los angeles made a deal with one of his customers. if he could dance to the song he was playing, he would give him a free tire rotation so the customer said, of course, i will take you up on that challenge. take a look.

♪ >> there they go they need an agent, they both got good moves, the two of them should take it on the road anyway, he got the free tire rotation, which of course, he did. >> i think roker dances a little like that. doesn't that look like his dance? that looks like the al dance >> by the way, that is the al dance. >> that's the roker -- >> a lot in the hips >> on the money. still ahead, another music legend, paul simon reflecting on his decades-long career, including the highs and lows with art garfunkel carson is going to have that on "popstart. but first, guess what, we're having a party in studio 1a! we're going to find out about all of these viewers they were born on leap day and they've come from across the country, because we're celebrating their big day. y'all, let it go you can be free. right after this delivered rapid symptom relief

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oh uh...is this having a seat? um no. we are back at 8:13 on this february 29th, leap day. and we are throwing a leap-year birthday party right here, right now in studio 1a >> so fun! >> this is going to be cool. we thought that a birthday that comes once every four years is worth celebrating in a big way these folks have waited 1,460 days for this very moment. >> that is a long time the chances of being born on a leap day are less than 0.1% so the people in room are part of a very, very exclusive club, so check out what it means to be a leaper >> i'm braxton >> hi, i'm chris >> hi, i'm shanay. emma.

>> for these >> hi, i'm shantay >> i'm emma. >> for these folks, it's a bit more complicated than just an age. they're all born on leap day and can only find their february 29th birthday on the calendar once every four years. they call themselves leapers >> i am forever young. your chances of being born on leap day are less than 0.1%. >> the fact that we're twin, it's even more unique to us. >> i was born leap year. and my grandson was born on leap year and that made this day so darn special. >> the landmark day was introduced to the calendar by roman emperor julius seizer in 46bc so why do we squeeze in an extra day? >> we say there's 365 days in a year, but that's not true. there's 365 and a fourth of a day. six hours. astrophysicist neil degrasse tyson says we need leap days to

align our calendar with earth's true orbit around the sun. >> we wait for four of those quarter days to accumulate that gives us one full extra day every four years what do we do with it? throw it back in the calendar. if we did not recognize leap days, then the seasons would migrate through the calendar >> but this often brings confusion for birthdays. >> the kids at school were shocked. they checked the calendar, all they could see was up until the 28th so they were like, i think she's lying. >> trying to use a credit card, and it only recognized 28 days in february, not 29. and it was like, bing, bam, bang, badge, rejected. >> among leapers, there is a heated debate over when to celebrate on the so-called off-years. >> we celebrate our birthdays on the 28th of february, because we want to keep the celebration in february >> i celebrate on march 1st, because on the 28th, i haven't really turned that age yet my f

went to disney world. for my third >> i celebrate my birthday on the 28th, and i celebrate on the 1st. >> my first two birthdays, i went to disney world for my third birthday, i really hope to go to universal studios. >> we love going around the city on leap year for free food, free dessert, we wear our shirts that say we're celebrating birthdays. >> we're like walking billboards like, hi, we want freebies >> we go all out >> chris and braxton throw leap year themed parties every february 29th. >> they always dress me up in all-green outfits. >> tons of frogs, green silly string, glasses that have frogs on them. >> from sunup to sundown, you enjoy every moment of that day >> for all the leapers out there -- >> happy birthday! >> happy birthday! >> i love today. happy birthday to everybody in this room. y'all, we're so excited to celebrate with you okay, guess what guess what i am here with twins from new yo

shanae and shantay. how does shanae and shantay y'all are 12 >> yes. >> how does it feel being 12 >> it feels great! almost teenagers >> we're tweens. >> you always dress alike. you ordered some t-shirts and they didn't quite make it. >> too soon, hoda. >> so you're actually 48 >> yes >> how does 48 feel? >> fabulous! >> i'll be ready for my aarp card soon. >> get it! >> so when you were celebrating your birthday, when you guys were kids, did you celebrate on the 28th of feb or were you a march 1st? >> we did both >> 28th or 1st or both. 28th and is 1st. >> a lot of people say, i'm born in feb and i want to stay in feb. >> 100%, that's why you do 28th, but we were twins, so you've got to split it up >> was your mom freaked when you were born on the 29th. >> yes >> but i don't know if she understood the magnitude then, but she understood that we were out and she was happy. >> very happy. >> when you have two babies, you are like happy

>> all the freebies. >> y'all are how will you celebrate >> today -- >> we looked it up -- >> all the freebies. >> yes >> y'all are into freebies >> yes >> i encourage everyone! >> everyone here, y'all, we've got to talk later. >> these guys love a freebie we are going to help you celebrate. so moxy times square is going to give you free cocktails for starters and free treats today, and then, here you go! do you want to pull the little -- >> ready, ready, ready >> you guys are going to broadway today get your tickets to tonight's performance. freebies for my girls! happy birthday, y'all! thank you for sharing. thanks for everyone at the table. craig? >> i love it, i love it. hoda, thank you. i'm enjoying the party over here with braxton from las vegas and his grandfather, chris, from florida. both leap year babies, right >> yes, sir. >> here's the thing, this isn't the first time you've celebrated your leap year birthday here, is that right

>> that's right, yeah. i was here four years -- not four years ago, in 2016, me and my mom were standing out in the plaza -- >> there you are >> there's photo proof >> that was the year before she passed and it was a really special moment that we got to share. >> we're glad you're back. we're glad you're back and able to celebrate with your grandfather. >> yeah. >> by the way, happy 18th birthday to you. >> thank you >> what's it been like this morning celebrating with all of these other leapers? >> it's been awesome they're my people! >> you know, you're not just a leap year baby, you take it very seriously. >> i do. a little birdie told me you take it so seriously, you got some tats >> i do have some tats >> it's generally a rule on the show, if someone talks about a tat, we've got to see the tats >> okay. you can see. >> what is that, for folks >> this is a leapfrog.

and right here in the middle is a 29th, for the 29th birthday, right there. right there. and we actually say that this is me scraping my way through life, and this is my beautiful wife holding me up. >> oh, man >> and you guys go all out for your birthday, your leap year birthdays? >> we do the pictures, they don't do it justice, but, yeah, we go all out. it's all green, frogs, all of that nine yards, yeah >> we heard about the frog obsession. so we wanted to do something special for you guys in particular, especially guys who have leapfrog tattoos. mike, thank you. >> oh, my god! >> we managed to find every frog item we could in the tri-state area we want you to celebrate for years to come with frogs from the "today" show >> that is so awesome. >> thank you, craig. >> when you come back in four years, i want to see your tat. >> all right, i will >> happy birthday. >> thank you >> happy birthday. sg, over to you. >> the party rolls on.

we've got some great folks here, all birthday leapers and we've got emma from new jersey happy birthday, honey. >> thank you >> you're 3 years old today. do you want to say hi to your friends at school? >> hi! >> where are you from? >> wood cliff middle school. >> hello to all the middle schoolers. i heard you had a birthday wish to go to universal studios >> i think we can make this happen we are in the business of making wishes come true i think i have something -- oh, yes, here we go! emma, universal orlando resort is giving you a trip for two to universal studios. your four-day, three-night trip includes round trip airfare, hotel accommodations at universal cabana bay beach resort, universal islands of adventure, and universal volcano bay water theme park we could mention, universal is

do you like having a leap year birthday? >> yeah, i do. >> so when do you usually celebrate when it's not a leap year? >> usually on mar part of our parent company how do we think we could pull this off do you like having a leap year birthday >> yeah, i do. >> so when do you usually celebrate when it's not a leap year >> usually on march 1st. >> everybody does something a little bit different you have four relatives. >> i do. >> who have leap year birthdays, and over here, we have grandpa and grandson it's kind of crazy so, what does it mean to you when it's the actual birthday. when february 29th rolls around. what's special >> it's really special for me, because like all my friends actually remember me they remember it's my birthday and they always say like happy birthday and never forget >> that's so sweet emma, i hope you enjoy your leap year birthday present. >> thank you so much i'll hand that over to you and send it over to al >> okay, thanks, savannah. here's my table. what's your name >> natalie >> and how old >> i'm 8 >> and howard, you're 10 years old. >> debora, i'm 18. >> and megan >> 11 years old. >> you guys look great for your age.

really fantastic you having a good time >> a great time? >> we want to make you have a little more fun. in fact, we want to say thank you to the color factory for letting us film there, harry and david for these fantastic birthday cakes you each get one, and one more surprise for everybody here, thanks to friends at personalization mall each of you is giving -- oh, sorry about that >> that's okay >> a personalized gift basket. you can use that to mop that up. it's filled with lots of gifts for all of your future celebrations so happy birthday, leapers there you go all right. we also want to mention, the party's just getting started we'll be celebrating leap day throughout the morning and of course, it will be a lot less soggy. let's check your weather

see what we've got going on for you on this leap year day. much colder in the northeast, fire risk in the central plains, heavy rain and snow out in the pacific northwest. some showers in northern texas, we're waiting for that heavy rain to arrive in the bay area. right now it's spotty through today and early parts of friday. we'll have heavier rain and low snow levels friday night into saturday. a bit of a break with a mix of sun and clouds as we go into your sunday plans with a few more days of breaks in between monday and tuesday. chillier temperatures on the way as well for san francisco. in the sierra we're weather. savannah >> i'm just passing around some treats al, thank you. just ahead, carson has some highly anticipated new music to share on "popstart." y. plus, must-haves for your next vacation, including, we

swear, the only pair of shoes you will need to bring but first, happy birthday, leapers. we love you! this is your special day a check of your local news now and weather. good thursday morning. it is 8:26. i'm laura garcia. uber today rolling out its new app for teenage riders. the only way minors can sign up is through a parent or guardian account. it allows parents to track fares in realtime.

uber also says it only has the most experienced highest rated drivers are allowed to accept teen requests. all are subject to uber's annual background checks. teens get a pin to provide to the driver to be sure they're getting into the right car. uber drivers can opt out of driving teenagers. let's get the forecast. >> good morning. right now we are seeing some clouds rolling in through parts of the south bay and the tri-valley. more breaks of sunshine as that storm system pushes through into the bay area. by lunchtime we're looking at light to moderate downpours in parts of the north bay. it will sweep down for just about everybody through dinner time here in the south bay. it will be a soggy next couple of days. we don't get a break until least late sunday and monday. thank you for joini ng

democrats agree.

conservative republican steve garvey is the wrong choice for the senate. ...our republican opponent here on this stage has voted for donald trump twice. mr. garvey, you voted for him twice... as your own man, what is your decision? garvey is wrong for california. but garvey's surging in the polls. fox news says garvey would be a boost to republican control of the senate. stop garvey. adam schiff for senate. i'm adam schiff, and i approve this message. what do i see in peter dixon? i see my husband... the father of our girls. i see a public servant. a man who served under secretary clinton in the state department... where he took on the epidemic of violence against women in the congo. i see a fighter, a tenacious problem-solver... who will go to congress and protect abortion rights and our democracy. because he sees a better future for all of us. i'm peter dixon and i approved this message.

>> back now at 8:30 on a special morning. it is leap day, if your birthday happens to be february 29th, like a lot of these folks, your age can be a little misleading we're going to head over there in a little second but these guys were very first in line. what's your name

>> carolton. carolton was first in line you guys were second in line what's your name >> tina henry. >> how old are you today >> 13. >> how old are you today >> 16. >> let's get some other -- 18. and look what we got here, we got 17 give it to me in regular years >> 68. >> 72. >> 40. >> 29. >> 40. >> 32. >> 24. >> 8 >> 32. >> 8 >> 68. >> 44. >> 16. >> 12. >> 60. >> i love it >> y'all, happy birthday to

everybody who's celebrating this year that's the way to go we love you. as well as a packed "popstart. >> we're going to have more leap day celebrations on the way, as >> also ahead, chassie post is here, get ready to shop! that qr code is fired up she'll help us get ready for the spring travel season with fashion, beauty, and tech essentials, including some gadgets to occupy your kids during a car ride or flight. we all need that >> also, really looking forward to this one this morning nearly 40 years after its premiere, one of my favorite shows growing up, the cast of "a different world" reuniting to shine some light on historically black colleges and universities. blayne alexander sat down with them exclusively and she is going to share that cool conversation coming up in just a few. >> can't wait for that all right, ahead on the third hour, we'll catch up with former supermodel and author paulina parascova. live studio 1a. >> tomorrow millie bobby browne stops by

first weekend, as we get into march. lots of sun in the plains and she found fame on "stranger things." we can't wait to catch up with her. >> mr. roker, a check of the weather? >> let's look ahead to your first weekend, as we get into march. lots of sun in the plains and the northeast, but heavy rain down through the southeast, the storm really brings it on home for our friends out west and on saturday, more heavy snow into the rockies record highs great lakes more like spring down through texas. wet along the eastern seaboard sunday, sunday the eastern third of the country pretty good with the exception of florida, but widespread snow out west, record highs up into the upper midwest and the ohio river valley good thursday morning. i'm cinthia pimentel. we are in store for a wet next couple of days. today it will be spotty at times. it's also going to turn cooler over the next couple of days. we're also going to see snow levels drop for around the bay area hill tops.

i love the fact that you've got michigan j. i love the fact that you've got michigan j. frog there ♪ hello my baby, hello my darling hello my rag time doll ♪ >> good job. i'm not sure what that is, but >> you've never watched a warner brothers cartoon >> it's been a minute. coming up, paul simon ready to open up about his career and art garfunkel like never before. we'll show you a little bit of the trailer of the new docuseries, that and a whole lot more coming up but first, this is "today" on nbc.

"overflowing with ideas and energy." that's the san francisco chronicle endorsing democrat katie porter for senate over all other options. porter is "easily the most impressive candidate." "known for her grilling of corporate executives." with "deep policy knowledge." katie porter's housing plan has "bipartisan-friendly ideas to bring homebuilding costs down." and the chronicle praises "her ideas to end soft corruption in politics." let's shake up the senate. with democrat katie porter. i'm katie porter and i approve this message.

little later than usual, but it's worth the wait. >> yes >> come on >> we have a lot of leapers out there. >> yeah!

guys, we'll start "popstart" today with paul simon, a trailer is out for the upcoming docu series following the legendary musician throughout his process of making an album back during the pandemic, mixed in with archival material from simon's decades-long career, and the show is set to include previously unseen footage taken from recording sessions and work with longtime partner, art garfunkel. >> i've never wanted to be anything other than a singer and a songwriter >> that was a good friendship. we thought we should express what our generation felt ♪ >> what i've learned is that when you find a thing that produces a feeling of peace or joy, try and hold on to it it's like blips. that's music, for me >> that was good restless dreams, the music of paul simon premieres march 17th on mgm plus.

we'll stick with the music theme. kacey musgraves up next. overnight, the seven-time grammy winner releasing the next single off her upcoming album called "deeper well." the next track is called "to be good, to be true." excuse me. take a listen. ♪ please don't make me regret ♪ ♪ opening up that part of myself ♪ ♪ and i've been scared to give again ♪ ♪ be good to me and i'll be goot to you ♪ ♪ but please don't be too good to be true ♪ "too good to be true" is the name of that track >> i just couldn't imagine why she was standing still that long it was a video >> it's a lyric video. it's a photograph.

uncle al says how is kasey standing so still? >> kacey's album is march 15th you know what else is happening, kacey will be here on the plaza, performing if you need information about that fan pass, encourage you to go to today.com/concert. cannot wait for that i know you're excited for that, too, savannah. next up, miley cyrus hot off her record of the year win at the gram quis, the singer set to release a new collaboration with the one and only pharrell williams the former "voice" coaches teaming up on a track called "doctor work it out. here's just a little bit of it ♪ ♪ i could be your doctor ♪ ♪ and i could be your nurse ♪ ♪ i think i see the problem ♪ ♪ it's only going to get worse ♪ ♪ a midnight medication ♪ ♪ just show me where it hurts ♪ ♪ i need to rock you, baby, before your body bursts ♪ ♪ let me work it out ♪ >> there's just a little bit of it you can stay tuned, see the full release of that track will drop tomorrow, miley and pharrell there. next up, "law & order:svu.

there it is. everyone knows that one -- no one can be intimidated by -- intimate a perp quite like olivia benson. >> are you threatening me? >> it's not a threat it's a verdict no one gets away with trying to kill my son, not without some form of justice. and right now, you are starting to sound pretty good >> how would you like to be that perp no one can get away with that! olivia bepson. >> no, no. >> well, mark your calendars in celebration with "svu's" 20th anniversary, they're transforming our plaza into olivia benson plaza. march 14th and 15th, it's a two-day experience it's free, up to the public if you're around. cruise on down inside the event. fans can grab a complimentary coffee at the benson and company truck. there's going to be show trivia, >> that's fantastic. >> friendship bracelets. commemorative anniversary newspaper, what more could you

today, which means a new episode possibly want? >> it's free. >> don't forget, it's thursday today. which means a new episode tonight will be airing right here on nbc and peacock. and finally, emma stone, a tweet went out from one film journalist that's gone completely viral picturing the oscar winner at the producer's guild awards with the caption, why would a photographer snap a picture of emma stone mid-chicken pie? so of course the internet had a little fun with the captions there. here is some of our favorites. one writing, when your family member asks you to pose in the middle of christmas dinner another writing, it's giving cruise photo op. and another one says, same every time the waitress comes around, when my mouth is full. >> and asks, how's your meal >> that happens. >> and there's your "popstart. >> what about when the dentist makes small talk coming up next, chasse post is here. she'll fuel up at our coffee cart, because she has a lot to do and needs her energy. she's sharing her favorite finds for spring travel from fashion to tech, all the essentials you need what's going on, gigglers? >> al. >> al --

>> don't -- don't blame me >> like two kids at the back of the class! >> he's laughing you hear him snorting and is it possible to count on my internet like my customers count on me? it is with comcast business. keeping you up and running with our 99.9% network reliability. and security that helps outsmart threats to your data. moaire dida twoo? - your data, too. there's even round-the-clock customer support. so you can be there for your customers.

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and the democracy he swore to protect. because helping people who need it has always been pete's mission. and i know he'll get it done. next generation veteran fund is responsible for the content of this ad. ♪ welcome back this morning on "shop all day. we are helping you get ready for the spring travel season, whether you're planning a long weekend getaway or a major bucket list adventure, we've got all the must-have essentials you'll want to pack. shop all day contributor chassie post is here you know what to do here we've got that qr code, you can just shop until you drop chassie, good morning! >> good morning. >> i love it this is pack it all away and you're ready to roll >> yes everything you'll need is starting with the ultimate fashion travel hack, the little black jump suit. savannah, i love it! feel this material >> very comfy.

>> so comfy. it's wrinkle resistant, and i think this is the one and done piece that you need, because you can wear this, you know, a million different ways, starting with on the plane, while you're traveling, it's superduper comfy and cute so layer it with a sweater or a blazer and then once you get to your destination, a little heel, a fabulous earring you're out on the town >> statement necklace! >> or pair it with sandals and a denim jacket run around and explore >> zhuzh it up it's cute. how much >> this is $129, but i've got to say, divide that between how many times you wear it i'm wearing this traveling to the grocery store, too it's amazing it's a great deal. >> okay, awesome >> i cannot believe these travel items they've gone viral starting with this fabulous travel belt. what it does it takes your personal bag and it attaches it to any suitcase with just a little belt. >> that's smart.

>> so cool >> okay. >> then they also got a travel belt bag if you want to up the ante this is a two in one it's a great cross body. but it also doubles as a travel bhechlt you can take it and use it to attach again your bag to your suitcase. >> amazing way to sneak on more stuff, too >> exactly exactly. >> we've got a great exclusive deal, 30% off. normally these start at 44 dplrs. now starting at just $27. >> cool. >> this is great all right, so the only shoe you're going to need, have you heard of the flat form the flat platform? >> no. >> this shoe right here is going to modernize your entire spring and summer wardrobe, and i mean, look how comfy it is, these great, cushy sole, and it gives you a little lift. right? and so you're going to see this shoe everywhere. high-end designers, but we found it at target, $30. >> we have one minute, chassie >> this is a cordless auto curler we have a video, you have to watch it, and look, it

no skills required you push a button, and look, it curls your hair automatically, and it is cordless >> i want to see what happens. >> look at that curl >> under $60, and we've seen auto curlers for $600. >> cordless and small, too >> this is the favorite thing i've ever found in years this is your silicone makeup brush cover. imagine, do you know why our interior of our makeup bags are so dirty >> yes, the makeup brushes yes. >> and we put these on our face! also, another 30% off discount keep kids occupied this is from steel series and it's a wireless gaming controller can you believe that >> does that really work >> yes it attaches right to your phone or ipad or your tablet, and they've got versions for both

iphones and also your android. 30% off, so normally these start at $44 to keep your kids happy? i mean, right? >> and there are apps that go with them? >> yeah, you can use whatever game is on your phone. >> what! that's crazy >> and last but not least, another great deal this is a two-in-one this is from cal pack and looks like a mild-mannered little luggage tag. but inside, we've got a portable phone charger. >> well, that's smart. >> isn't that cool so you can write your name on here, so if you're not traveling, throw this in your regular bag, normally it's $32, but today, $19 >> amazing chassie, this is a lot of clever stuff. thank you! if you want to purchase any of these items, scan the qr code, because we went through it fast, or you can go to today.com/shop. just ahead, our exclusiv interview with the cast of "a different world," as they reunited for a special cause, 35 years after the beloved sitcom's years after the beloved sitcom's debut.

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i launched our campaign at this union hall. so you can feel confident ilet's go win this thing!. then we hit the road and never stopped. you shared with me your frustration at working harder to barely get by and afford a place to live. your fears for our democracy and freedoms and your dreams for yourself, your family, and the future. it is not too late to realize those dreams. i'm adam schiff, and i approve this message because together we can still get big things done.

we are back with our discover black her ♪ we are back with our discover black heritage series and this morning, the stars to the beloved sitcom, "a different world. i know you grew up -- >> for six seasons, the groundbreaking show depicted life at hillman college, a fictional historically black college and university in virginia and now more than 35 years after its debut, the cast is reuniting for an exciting new project. >> nbc's blayne alexander sat down with them exclusively hey, blayne, good morning! >> reporter: well, guys, good morning to you from the beautiful campus of spelman college here in atlanta. but if you were a fan of the college "a different world," craig, i know that you were, you'll definitely recognize this building behind me this was used as the establishing shot for many of the scenes throughout the series and it's also the very first stop as the tour kicks off their hbcu tour across the country today. now, they're going around, talking about the importance of these institutions and also taking the show's enduring

legacy to the next generation. ♪ even from the very first note, who knew the show was something special? ♪ ♪ i knew my parents loved me ♪ ♪ stand beside me ♪ >> reporter: these are the faces of "a different world. ♪ set at the fictitious hillman college, for six seasons, the sitcom showcased the vibrant life at hbcus, historically black colleges and universities. >> what do people tell you is their most memorable episode >> the wedding episode >> the wedding episode >> the wedding episode, hands down >> baby, please! please >> i do! >> but the show's legacy goes well beyond the screen >> we took chances to tell stories that weren't really being told >> addressing date rape and aids and war and gun violence and homelessness

but also, we were able to do that and make you laugh at the same time. >> reporter: and then, there were the characters themselves. >> you talk to anybody, and they say they wanted duane's glasses, right? they wanted that look. you have kim, the aspiring doctor, tim, who's outspoken and strong. >> i think that was one of the real sacred keys about "different world," we represented all of these different facets of young black life that we had never seen before. >> reporter: and the show's influence is undeniable. from 1976 to 1994, hbcu enrollment increased by more than 25%, but the biggest leap came between 1986 and 1994, almost exactly the same years "a different world" was on the air. now, more than 35 years after their debut, the cast is back together, touring hbcu campuses around the country. when these students walk away after meeting you, what do you hope they take with them? >> i want them to feel seen, i want them to recognize that they

are their best investment. >> oh, and they are loved! >> the influence of kids wanting to go to school, period, i think, is very powerful, because they could see themselves there. >> right. >> you know? >> at clark atlanta university, that message has already reached the next generation. >> to make it clear, none of you were born when this show actually aired, right? nobody was born! but still, it means a great deal to you. >> my mom is an alum from northern state university so "a different world" planted that seed in her and that's being planted in me. >> every day, someone will say, i went to an hbcu because i watched "a different world." i'm a doctor, an engineer a lawyer because i watched "a different world." it's one of the most rewarding part of the work we've done. >> i was at the white house. one of the young guards, who was

in the army, a major, a young black major, pulled me aside and said, i'm this because of rotc and colonel taylor in "a different world." >> how many of you actually attended an hbcu, and yet it's part of all of you. >> we went to hillman. >> most people will say, if you change one person's life, that's a blessing. we've all had the opportunity to change millions of people's lives. ♪♪ >> reporter: and guys, they impacted so many lives and so many more to come. the tour kicks off today at the auc, spellman, clark, and moorhouse. the next stop will be howard in washington, d.c. so far they have ten stops with many more on the way, and they just added another one, guys. in fact, they've just been invited to the white house to celebrate hbcus with president biden. they're going to be making that trip in the coming weeks. >> that's fantastic. >> that is fantastic! >> what a great idea, blayne. >> look at us, y'all. surrounded by all of these leapers. you guys, your birthday just

getting started. this is just the beginning of your birthday. do y'all have a lot of fun things in store? what do you have coming up today? >> well, my son came up to surprise me for the weekend. so he showed up about midnight last night, when i was already trying to go to bed to get here. >> surprise! happy birthday! >> very cool. >> well, we're happy that you guys came to celebrate. how very cool. what a fun day, guys. we appreciate it. >> we'll see you in four years! see you in four years. happy leap year birthday. hope you enjoyed the first two hours. there's lots more to come. more leap day fun as well. some birthday celebrations coming up on the third and fourth hours, as well. but first, your local news, some weather, and these quick messages. >> happy birthday!

very good morning to you. i'm laura garcia. oakland is holding a public forum with finalists seeking to become the city's next police chief. the four candidates are arguing the forum creates unnecessary risk for candidates and their current employers. it takes place at city hall at 6:30 p.m. happening now, in january of last year a 66-year-old gunned down seven of his former coworkers at a mushroom farm where he worked. he previously pleaded not guilty. at one point last year, he also confessed. his arraignment is scheduled for

10:30 this morning. the sierra is bracing for a large snowstorm. the chp advising people not to travel trehe what do i see in peter dixon? i see my husband... the father of our girls. i see a public servant. a man who served under secretary clinton in the state department... where he took on the epidemic of violence against women in the congo. i see a fighter, a tenacious problem-solver... who will go to congress and protect abortion rights and our democracy. because he sees a better future for all of us. i'm peter dixon and i approved this message.

a wet weekend ahead. we are tracking multiple rounds of rain soaking the bay area. new hope for women battling the deadliest kind of ovarian cancer. cancer. we will show you "overflowing with ideas and energy." that's the san francisco chronicle endorsing democrat katie porter for senate over all other options. porter is "easily the most impressive candidate." "known for her grilling of corporate executives." with "deep policy knowledge." katie porter's housing plan has "bipartisan-friendly ideas to bring homebuilding costs down." and the chronicle praises "her ideas to end soft corruption in politics." let's shake up the senate. with democrat katie porter. i'm katie porter and i approve this message.

this morning on the third hour of "today," remembering richard lewis. the comedy legend that starred with his dear friend, larry david in "curb your enthusiasm." >> you always pick the restaurants. >> what are we, married? am i dating you? >> we'll look back at his career