that's what's happening "today in the bay." we're back at 7:25 with a live local news update. >> the "today" show picking up more on the passing of krish right now. good morning. farewell to a princess. tributes to carrie fisher pour in from around the world as costars, family and friends iconic princess leia. we'll look back at the life and career of the actress, author and comedian. back to business. president-elect trump returning to full-time work on his inauguration and filling his cabinet today. this after a security scare forces an evacuation at trump tower. >> let's go, out. out! alexa, who did it? police in arkansas demanding access to a murder suspect's amazon echo. the online giant refusing. so could the popular device that listens to everything you say be

the key to cracking the case? and drifting away. >> it's doing it! whoo! >> we'll take you behind the scenes and behind the wheel of the new technology designed to keep you and your family safe like never before. today, wednesday, december 28, 2016. >> announcer: from nbc news, this is "today" with matt lauer and savannah guthrie, live from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. and welcome to "today" on this tuesday morning. i'm tamron hall alongside carson daly. matt has the morning off and savannah of course is on maternity leave. we've been talking before the show started about carrie fisher and some memories of her being here just last month. >> 2016 seems to be a year we're getting robbed of people we've loved so much too soon. >> we begin with the loss of a true force in hollywood.

actress and best-selling author carrie fisher. her career took off with her role in "star wars" but her legacy stretches well beyond that legendary franchise. stephanie gosk has the latest. >> good morning, tamron. many of us of a certain age, like mine, knew princess leia long before knowing carrie fisher. as people in hollywood and across the country reflect on her life, it's how much of the fearlessness, wit and toughness of princess leia came straight from the actress herself. leia wasn't just a princess, she was a hero in one of the most popular movie series ever made. so when news came that actress carrie fisher had died four days after suffering a heart attack on a flight, a number of fans felt princess leia and their childhoods died with her.

in a statement "star wars" creator george lucas said she was our great and powerful princess, feisty, wise and full of hope, in a role that was more difficult than most people might think. leia snuck out the plans to the death star, deflected hans solo. >> you stuck-up, half-witted stuffy looking -- >> on facebook mark hamill wrote a touching tribute. she played such a crucial role in my personal and professional life and both wouldn't be the same without her. fisher couldn't have known then at the age of 19 that the role would follow her for life. >> nobody recognizes you? >> just one guy who had seen it 12 times. >> her appeal spent nearly four decades. her iconic role becoming a pop culture staple. from friends to 30 rock. the daughter of famous parents, eddie fisher and debbie reynolds, who wrote on her facebook page, thank you to everyone who has embraced the gifts and talents of my beloved

and amazing daughter. making her big-screen debut in 1975, fisher appeared alongside warren beatty in "shampoo." after a brief marriage in the early '80s she moved beyond acting and became a prolific writer, especially good at doctoring scripts. she helped rewrite "made in america," "sister act" and many more. her most recent memoir "the princess diarist" where she admits to having a three-month affair with harrison ford on the said of the first "star wars." just last month fisher told hoda and kathie lee, no one had any idea. >> and that's what shocks me. i think maybe because it was improbable, i don't know. certainly it wasn't like we were holding hands on the set or anything. >> i love you. >> i know. >> in a statement harrison ford writes carrie was one of a kind,

brilliant, original, funny and emotionally fearless. she lived her life bravely. she often wrote and talked about her demons, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, her strength in battling them as a parent as the strength of the famous character she played. a character she returned to in last year's "the force awakens" appearing on screen with her daughter, billy lorde, returning to the role that made her famous. >> may the force be with you. >> for fans of "star wars" it seems there will be one more chance to see carrie fisher reprise the now 40-year-old role. she wrapped up shooting her scenes in the next movie due out next year. guys. >> stephanie, thank you so much. >> an editor of "people" magazine, we've got to stop meeting like this. as you read some of the remembrances from her "star wars" family and her fans globally, what strikes you about

those things? >> just how big of a loss this is for everyone, her fans, but really the people who knew her so well. you saw harrison ford, george lucas all speaking out about losing a friend and someone who was so real and down to earth and was brave at the same time. she never really let hollywood change who she was on the inside, and that's a vocal, talented, brave woman. >> as stephanie pointed out, the role of princess leia changed her life of she was only 19. when you look at the totality of her career from writing to other roles, how do you think she would want to be remembered? is it truly just about leia? >> it's not just about leia. she came around to loving that role and loving what it did for her, but she had such a prolific career in hollywood, as you said, screen writing, movies people would never know she was

ever behind, "the wedding singer," "sister act," just so many credits behind her. it superseded a lot of her work on screen. if you look at the totality of what she did, she just had a really prolific career in as watching the coverage last night and one of the quotes that stuck out most was one of her books. george lucas talking about getting the role at princess leia, ruined my life. i mean that as good as possible. sometimes she loved the character, sometimes she loathed it. in the past few years how did she feel about leia. >> in hollywood, the worst thing is to be pigeon holed. that was really hard when you have a character adds big as princess leia was so beloved, but she kind of came around to the idea that this was a piece of the american fabric, and she embraced that. she knew the role would change her life even back as a teenager. she wrote "the princess diarist" most recently from diaries and notes that she had while

filming. she really understood that this was so important to so many people and really important to her. >> harrison ford said she was emotionally fearless. she talked about mental health issues, she talked about drugs, she really decided to expose that part of her life. what was the motivation? >> i think that's how she would want to be remembered actually, as someone who spoke about all of the trappings of hollywood. she was a child of hollywood, famous parents, had grown up seeing so many things and falling victim to so many things. and she was very, very open and brave about it. she even took up the cause of mental health, having dealt with bipolar disorder herself. and just putting her truth out there. i really think that's what she would want to be known as. >> well said. janine, thanks so much. now to politics, a security scare at trump tower led to some nervous moments tuesday. while down in florida, the president-elect is getting back

to business, working on his inauguration and his cabinet. nbc's hallie jackson has the latest for us. hallie, good morning. >> reporter: good morning to you. a senior transition official tells nbc news that today the president-elect will meet with, among others, ike perlmutter, the marvel ceo and long-time trump backer and dr. simarotto. the president-elect clearly today getting back to work after the holiday as back in midtown manhattan, a security scare at trump tower created a few frightening moments. >> out! >> reporter: running and yelling -- >> everything is fine. >> reporter: terrified people rushing out of trump tower. inside, a suspicious package triggering an evacuation. outside, chaos. turns out, false alarm. that package, just a bag of children's toys, a senior law enforcement source tells nbc news. through it all, donald trump,

thousands of miles away in south florida, surrounded by his national security team. the president-elect announcing a new advisor on homeland security, thomas bossert, a cyber security specialist, who served in a similar role under george w. bush. while trump has made no public appearances since saturday, he's publicly going back after president obama for a second day for a row for saying if he ran again, he could have won. trump tweeting president obama campaigned hard and personally in the very important swing states and lost. the voters wanted to make america great again. president obama in hawaii making history with japan's leader at the pearl harbor memorial. without mentioning trump, seeming to take a subtle dig. >> it is here that we remember that even when hatred burns hottest, even when the tug of tribalism is at its most primal, we must resist the urge to turn

inward. >> reporter: prime minister shinzo abe joining president obama, the first japanese leader to ever visit the site. but it's a different prime minister, israel's benjamin netanyahu at the center of a u.n. security council resolution. that will be the topic of a big speech by john kerry today, a senior official telling nbc the secretary of state will candidly respond to accusations the u.s. orchestrated that resolution. claims the obama administration denies. away from the world stage, this stage now getting set for january 20th when donald trump will take office. inaugural planners insisting it's all about unity, not razzle dazzle. >> it's not summer jam or coachella here, we're planning an inauguration. >> reporter: rather than a bunch of inaugural balls, just three. some performers facing backlash for participating. >> the higher you are on the a-list scale, the bigger the

risk. >> reporter: president-elect trump weighing in saying they used to have a great friend in the u.s. but not anymore adding january 20 is fast approaching. >> thank you very much. breaking overnight, two powerful earthquakes robbing parts of nevada and california. a 5.7 magnitude hit just after midnight southwest of hawthorne, nevada. a few minutes later another one in the same area. the rumbling was felt in reno, carson city and parts of california. the quakes were followed boy a series of aftershocks. there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. there's word that turkey and russia have reached an agreement on a cease-fire plan for syria. it could start as early as tonight. russia has carried out an intense air campaign in support of dictator bashar al assad

while turkey backed the 5-year-old rebellion against the regime. the cease-fire would apparently exclude so-called terror organizations which could include rebel groups backed by the united states. more than 400,000 syrians have been killed in the conflict. and in michigan, an already massive sinkhole that's triggered a state of emergency is getting even bigger this morning. the mayor describes it as a triage situation but residents are using another word, disaster. ron mott is there. good morning. >> reporter: good morning to you. we all like to think our houses are on solid ground. the folks in this neighborhood know they are not on solid ground. now officials fear this giant hole will cave in completely. this morning a grim prospect for residents threatened by this massive sinkhole. it's now nearly the size of a football field and growing. >> the ground is unstable. it is going to collapse. >> reporter: nearly two dozen families forced out of their homes, facing an unhappy new year, evicted for weeks, maybe

longer. authorities working on a plan to allow residents to remove items from their homes but for now it's too dangerous. >> a lot of moving parts and they're going to continue moving. >> reporter: it's an uphill battle for officials frantically trying to contain the damage. authorities believe it started when an 11-foot wide sewer line burst, spilling raw sewage under the neighborhood and triggering the sinkhole. residents at a nearby senior complex were in the dark for a second time tuesday when an emergency crew hit a gas line and power had to be cut off to the entire area. >> everybody is sitting inside here trying to keep warm and talk to each other with flashlights. >> reporter: authorities have stopped dumping raw sewage into the clinton river to keep it from backing up into basements. they're now faced with the foul task of cleaning it up but optimistic. >> every day is going to be progress. >> reporter: this isn't the first time there was a problem with the sewer line.

there was a break in 1978 and again in 2004. the repair bill was estimated at $55 million. this time the hole is much bigger and officials say the cost will be much bigger too. the line was built in the late '60s and last inspected seven years ago. not often enough say some officials. >> we've had two breaks already. why would we not inspect it more often? >> reporter: crews are back at it today, finishing up the repairs on the gas line. 15 mile road which is a major thorough fare through this neighborhood could be closed for months. back to you guys. new developments this morning in a story we've been following for several months. russian officials for the first time have admitted to mass doping in the country's sports system. now, that's according to a report in "the new york times." the director of russia's national anti-doping agency called it an institutional conspiracy. but said the government's top officials were not involved. an independent report found that more than 1,000 russian competitors were involved in a conspiracy to conceal positive drug tests over a period of five

years. and an update on a story we told you about last week. korean airlines says it will allow crew members to use stun guns to manage in-flight disturbances. it comes after richard marx helped subdue an unruly passenger. afterward he was critical of the airlines for its handling of the incident. korean air says it will increase taser training and look at putting male flight attendants on all flights. now to dramatic dash cam video. an idaho state trooper was walking on the side of a snowy highway when an out of control car narrowly misses him. then the car crashes into a patrol car that was parked on the shoulder. thankfully no one was hurt in that crash. shanna mendiola from knbc in for al. >> we are seeing more snow for the northeast so right ahead of that storm we have watches and warnings in place for the

northeast. that is your winter storm watched and warnings the next couple of days. we'll watch for the development of a nor'easter which will impact the east coast tomorrow through friday. here's the tracking of the storm today. we'll see some rain down to the south. possible hail for memphis, knoxville, jacksonville also looking a little wet there as the front moves through for your thursday. we'll see some snow for the interior northeast. also looking at the low forming for the boston area. new york city getting brushed by a little rain but it's not going to be too heavy. it is snow for the interior northeast and we'll track that snow as the storm moves in for friday. so thursday into friday is that bullet point of where we'll see the snow. how much will you get? 15 to 18 inches by the time this is all over through friday so the interior regions of the northeast looking at the most snow by the time this is all over.

but for today it's another beautiful day out there. we're looking at the northeast, another mild day outside, looking at more of that. we'll have your local weather in just a second. unseasonably mild for the northwest. looking for fog in the gulf. we're seeing thunderstorm activity through the tennessee, mississippi and ohio valleys. out west it's dry conditions. that's a look at your national weather. we'll have a look at your local weather in the next 30 seconds. good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. it's another chilly start with some freezing temperatures and frosty conditions across parts

of the bay area. it's only 32 degrees right now in the tri-valley and 37 in the south bay. san francisco will start out at 44 degrees but see the highs reaching into the mid 50s today. low 60s for the south bay and 58 for the peninsula. in the north bay expect a high of 58 degrees and the same 234 the east bay. >> and that's what's good in your neighborhood. >> all right, shawna, thank you very much. coming up, an alexa, who done it. the popular amazon echo lands at the center of a murder investigation. why police are hoping the device could actually be a star witness. also ahead, a wild ride. an exclusive look behind the scenes as new car safety technology is put to the test. first, this is "today" on nbc.

coming up, could it happen on our watch? the world anxiously awaits the

arrival of two eaglets and we have our eyes glued to the camera. camera. and we're going to we rely on our courage. the kind of courage that shows up when we need it... and when cancer is least expecting it. courage. just one reason more of us are surviving cancer than dying from it. give now to the american cancer society. if you could see your cough, you'd see just how far it can spread. robitussin dm max is now better tasting,

with the same fast powerful cough relief. robitussin dm max. because it's never just a cough. sinci've lost over 40 pounds. weight watchers, i can honestly tell you, i struggle no more. i've eaten everything i love. tacos, pasta... i've never felt deprived. i would say to anybody who's thinking about joining weight watchers... take the leap, and get about the business of enjoying a fantastic and full life. in the first 2 months members

have lost 15% more weight than on our prior program. join for free now and lose 10 pounds on us. ♪ noooooooooooo!cer: and we're going into overtime. oh. sam's choice stuffed crust pepperoni pizza, stuffed with three cheeses, $5.98 save money. live better. walmart. but when we brought our daughter home, that was it. now i have nicoderm cq. the nicoderm cq patch with unique extended release

technology helps prevent your urge to smoke all day. it's the best thing that ever happened to me. every great why needs a great how. sure, you could sit around all night waiting for a pizza to be delivered. but wouldn't making it yourself be a lot more fun? it's baking season. warm up with pillsbury.

a person was seriously hurt in a crash in san jose caused by a good morning. it's 7:26 on your wednesday. i'm sam brock. a person was seriously hurt in a crash in san jose this morning caused by a wrong-way driver, going the wrong way up the byrd avenue exit. that's the aftermath. the person was heading in the wrong direction on 280 at the bhird avenue off-ramp. that driver hit that chevy, causing the car to flip and the person suffered major injuries. the wrong-way car was then rear-ended by another vehicle, a bmw. the driver who investigators say caused that crash suffered an ankle injury. we are going to have updates throughout the morning. i'll get a check of weather with kari hall. >> it's very cold again this morning as we take a live look

outside san francisco. bundle up as you head out. it's 42 degrees in san francisco and oakland, 37 in palo alto and san jose and below freezing temperatures for the north bay, but it will be slightly warmer this afternoon for a few hours during the day. we'll have much more comfortable weather. tomorrow will be nice as well. we'll be tracking a few spotty showers for the weekend. we'll have more details on that. let's head over to vianey for a look at this morning's commute. >> good morning, kari. talking about that 280 accident that happened early this morning, there was originally a sig alert that was issued. as of now that sig alert has been canceled and all lanes have been reopened for the past couple hours. we aren't seeing any backup near that area. however, if we move over to the westbound 580 where we're still seeing pretty serious backup, we're also seeing light backup near the westbound 80 near san francisco. >> all right. that is the latest. thank you very much. that will do it for us. again, we'll continue to provide you updates on the passengers

injured in that horrible crash this morning. see you in half an hour.

7:30 now on a wednesday morning, the 28th of december, 2016, as we inch closer to another holiday weekend. look at the big crowd there. it's our corner of rockefeller plaza where it's been unseasonably warm the last couple of days. it's yielded a great crowd. we'll join them in about half an hour. inside studio 1a here's a look at today's headlines. the world is saying good-bye to yet another legendary figure this morning. carrie fisher died tuesday, four days after suffering a heart attack on a plane. of course she will always be remembered for her iconic role as princess leia in the "star wars" franchise. fisher was also a best-selling author and was in the middle of a tour promoting her new autobiography. we'll have much more on her

passing and the tributes to her life coming up. and a security scare at trump tower right here in new york led to an emergency evacuation on tuesday. a suspicious bag triggered the panic, but officials say it turned out to be filled with toys. president-elect trump was not there at the time. and russia's defense ministry says search teams have now recovered a second flight recorder from the military plane that crashed in the black sea. it was found overnight, one day after the first device was discovered. experts are analyzing the data to hopefully figure out what caused the plane to go down, killing all 92 people aboard. now to an unusual murder investigation in arkansas raising new questions about privacy and technology. police want amazon to turn over data from the suspect's echo virtual assistant, but the online giant is refusing. nbc's gabe gutierrez has that story. gabe, good morning. >> reporter: carson, good morning. many of you may have gotten the amazon echo for christmas, but police here now want to tap into one of those devices to

potentially help solve a crime. the suspect's attorney, though, says her client has nothing to hide, but that investigators are overreaching. this morning a murder case is testing the limits of privacy inside your home. >> alexa, turn off the light. >> reporter: the amazon echo, better known as alexa was a best seller this christmas, but now police in bentonville, arkansas, have filed a warrant for electronic data from the virtual assistant to help solve a murder. >> we know amazon has a copy because consumers can actually listen to all of their alexa requests and they can delete them. >> reporter: what's not clear is how much relevant data is on the device or an amazon servers. prosecutors say 32-year-old james bates murdered his co-worker, victor collins, who was found strangled in bates' hot tub. bates who called 911 when he found collins has pleaded not guilty. >> did anybody think when this was being created that information that you gave to alexa or you gave to the amazon

echo would be used outside your home? and then to be used to have you arrested for a crime you didn't commit? >> reporter: but investigators say this new technology is just another piece of the puzzle. >> we have established probable cause and obtained a warrant from a judge to search this device, the same way we would search a person's cell phone, we would search a person's home. >> reporter: amazon tells nbc news it will not release customer information without a valid and binding legal demand properly served on us. amazon objects to overbroad or otherwise inappropriate demands as a matter of course. >> how would it be used today or combined with other data in the future and then be used against us? >> reporter: amazon has turned over some account data but not the electronic data -- some account details but not electronic data from the echo. it's important to note, tamron and carson, that while the echo is always listening, it's not always recording until someone says the trigger word.

this is all raising new questions about police work and technology and this murder case is set to go to trial next year. >> gabe, thanks for that and what are those trigger words where it would start recording? >> i have one and i told you the other morning, it came on, it played a song. i did not say alexa, i didn't say the name of the artist or the song and it was one of those creepy moments. i don't know. let's get another check of the weather. shanna mendiola is here in for al. >> good morning. still another mild day here across the east. we've got another day of still warm weather east of the rockies. you can see all the warm air moving in from the south. we'll see another day of that where temperatures will be 15 to 20 degrees above average. chicago will be about 14 degrees warmer, 43 degrees here. raleigh at 59. 42 for you in boston, just about 7 degrees warmer. then we'll get a little cooler into thursday. the development of the nor'easter will help to cool things down just slightly. you can see the temperatures all still in the orange and red. we've got a 10-degree warmup in

minneapolis with 30 degrees. tallahassee, florida, in the 70s. we'll be even cooler friday. again, new york city about 5 degrees warmer. 42 degrees where yesterday was in the 60s. this will be cooler and you'll notice a distance. nationwide we're looking at unseasonably mild temperatures for everyone in the midwest. some snow towards the pacific northwest and for texas, you've got some fog to start off in the morning along the gulf. that should last through 9:00, clearing up to afternoon sun. that's been a look at your i'm meteorologist kari hall. enjoy the next couple days with cool mornings and warm afternoons. we will start to see unsettled weather as we head into the start of 2017 with scattered showers moving in in san francisco starting on saturday, into the start of next week. look how cool it will be. highs in the upper 40s. for the inland areas expect a high today in the low 60s and

tomorrow we'll be turning cooler on friday and some rain in the forecast for the weekend and early next week. >> that's your latest weather. weather. >> shawna, thank you so much. coming up, why a lot of parents are saying that the hatchimals, the popular gift, they are having some trouble. it's not living up to the hype. but first, we're hitting the test track for a rare glimpse at the newest advances in car safety. we'll have more on that right after this. (man) my dad and i have the same eyes. same nose. same toughness. and since he's had moderate alzheimer's disease, the same never quit attitude. that's why i asked his doctor about once-a-day namzaric. (avo) namzaric is approved for moderate to severe alzheimer's disease in patients who are taking donepezil. it may improve cognition and overall function, and may slow the worsening of symptoms for a while. namzaric does not change the underlying disease progression. don't take if allergic to memantine, donepezil, piperidine or any of the ingredients in namzaric. tell the doctor about any conditions including heart, lung, bladder,

kidney or liver problems, seizures, stomach ulcers, or procedures with anesthesia. serious side effects may occur, including muscle problems if given anesthesia; slow heartbeat, fainting, more stomach acid which may lead to ulcers and bleeding; nausea, vomiting, difficulty urinating, seizures, and worsening of lung problems. most common side effects are headache, diarrhea, dizziness loss of appetite, and bruising. (man) dad and i shared a lot of moments. now we're making the most of each one. (avo) ask about namzaric today. you're so cold, come in!

what's wrong? it's dry... your scalp? mine gets dry in the winter too. try head and shoulders' dry scalp care it nourishes the scalp and... ...keeps you up to 100% flake free head and shoulders' dry scalp care ♪ the itsy bitsy spider went up the waterspout. down came the rain and clogged the gutter system creating a leak in the roof. luckily the spider recently had geico help him with homeowners insurance. water completely destroyed his swedish foam mattress. he got full replacement and now owns the sleep number bed. his sleep number setting is 25. call geico and see how much you could save on homeowners insurance. achoo! snap achoo! snap

achoo! achoo! snap snap achoo! achoo! feel a cold coming on? zicam cold remedy nasal swabs shorten colds with a snap, and reduce symptom severity by 45%. shorten your cold with a snap, with zicam. when you make a pb&j with smucker's, that's the difference between ordinary everyday and exquisitely delicious in an everyday sort of way. because with a name like smucker's, it has to be good. and exquisitely delicious in an everyday sort of way. ♪"my friends know me so well.

they can tell what i'm thinking, just by looking in my eyes. but what they didn't know was that i had dry, itchy eyes. i used artificial tears from the moment i woke up... ...to the moment i went to bed. so i finally decided to show my eyes some love,... ...some eyelove. eyelove means having a chat with your eye doctor about your dry eyes because if you're using artificial tears often and still have symptoms, it could be chronic dry eye. it's all about eyelove, my friends. back now at 7:40. the end of the year is a good time to buy a new car with many dealers slashing prices. >> how do automakers ensure those vehicles are safe? this morning we're taking you on a rare behind-the-scenes ride-along with some of the men and women who perform very important tests. nbc's kerry sanders is in miami for us. kerry, good morning. >> reporter: good morning, guys. i'm in a 1964 lincoln

continental and she is a beauty. but when you look at the technology of this era and compare it to what we get today, there really is no comparison. automotive engineers spend so much of their time in the lab, working on all of those safety technologies, but every once in a while they get a chance to take what they have done in the lab and actually put it to the real world test, and the engineers at ford motor invited us along for a test run. if you're a commuter bouncing on roads that look like wash boards, a farmer where this is part of the routine, dirt roads that are never flat or just zipping from point a to point b, this is where automotive engineers go before their creations roll off the assembly line. a playground, where they ask but one question. what if the way hollywood stunt drivers drifted in the movie "fast and the furious" could be achieved offroad on a closed track by anyone?

>> wow. oh, my god, i've lost track of where we are. >> reporter: what if an onboard computer allowed you those exact skills. >> what makes it easier for the novice to do drifting. >> i feel a little bit like speed racer here. >> reporter: today by inner 17-year-old lives. >> i'm doing it, whoo! >> reporter: fun? yeah. but why engineer something we should not and do not do on an open road? take the technology that you have developed with that computer, how does it apply on the highway, on the side roads? >> when i'm going along and a dog runs out in front of me and i have to turn the car really quick, we can overpower the wheel to help the car turn. >> reporter: so all the technology actually has application in real life. >> that's exactly it. >> reporter: what if you had to drive down a steep mountain but didn't have the confidence? >> i can't even see where we're going. >> that's all right. >> you say that.

>> reporter: an algorithm computers it. >> this is like a roller coaster ride. >> reporter: a semi autonomous driving mode takes control. >> not bad, huh? >> reporter: as for durability, some engineers on the case are literally rocket scientists. >> if you take a look back, you can see how the box is moving in this. >> i can't see much. my head is bouncing around. >> reporter: and what was once man's world no longer. >> you look for shake. >> reporter: engineer chrissie rodriguez' focus, prevent car sickness. >> everything is about minimizing the input to the driver. >> reporter: what if a standard production car were as fast as a race car? yes, that's a six-speed ford mustang gt 350-r. 155, 160. how does topping out at 164

miles per hour apply to everyday driving? >> slam on the brakes right now. >> oh, my goodness. >> reporter: no swerve, no skid, in four seconds full stop. so we did nine laps so we did nine laps on that nine-mile track and we had to quit, guys. any guesses as to why? >> i don't know, what? >> you got pulled over? >> what? >> ran out of gas. >> all of the data and you didn't know that you were running low on fuel? >> kerry, meanwhile -- >> trust me, i was not looking at that. >> and we decided that you look like danny zucco hanging out in that ride. you look pretty cool, guy. >> ah. >> and good looking car. we have to get him a new jacket. >> oh, we love you, kerry. go back into the car and gas up. coming up, and that is pretty funny.

oh, goodness. >> this is unbelievable. >> this is a topic of discussion all morning long. >> and music's new power couple? this is a photo of j.lo and drake. >> we will break it down. >> and row nin has more tribute s to the legendary carrie fisher. totally unnecessary and it triples the budget. we'll be totally behind schedule, right? (laughschedules. schedules. great, okay. wouldn't it be great if everyone said what they meant? the citi® double cash card does. it lets you earn double cash back: 1% when you buy, and 1% as you pay. the citi double cash card. double means double.

of your brain can make it hard to lose weight? contrave is an fda-approved weight-loss medicine that may help adults who are overweight or struggle with obesity lose weight and keep it off. contrave is believed to work on two areas of the brain: your hunger center... (woman) i'm so hungry. (avo) to reduce hunger. and your reward system... (woman) ice cream. french fries. (avo) to help control cravings. across three long-term studies, contrave patients lost approximately 2-4x more weight than with diet and exercise alone. contrave is not for everyone. one ingredient in contrave may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teens, and young adults within the first few months. other serious side effects include seizures, increase in blood pressure or heart rate, liver damage, manic episodes, glaucoma and allergic reactions. do not take with opioids. reduce hunger, help control cravings. contrave. the #1 prescribed weight-loss brand.

go to contrave.com. try theraflu expressmax,nd flu hold you back now in new caplets. it's the only cold & flu caplet that has a maximum strength formula with a unique warming sensation you instantly feel. theraflu. for a powerful comeback. new expressmax caplets. you might know me as the guy who switched to sprint because all networks are great. but get this, sprint has this crazy deal on their new unlimited plan with the 3rd, 4th, and 5th line free. yep - unlimited data, talk and text for your whole crew. oh you'll need the best unlimited data plan because well you have to get the new iphone 7. it's on the top of almost everyone's holiday list. (vo) find out how to get a free iphone se. it's the best gift this holiday season. how's that for a happy holiday? for people with hearing loss, visit sprintrelay.com

we are back with more of the tributes we're seeing to actress, author and comedian carrie fisher. lets head over to the orange room and ronan farrow. >> i know a lot of us are feeling like a punch in the gut. carrie fisher passed away tuesday morning. a funny, candid writer, an actor and mental health advocate who gave all of us so much through her work. as you might expect, tributes pouring in. peter mayhew saying there are no words for this loss. carrie was the brightest light in every room she entered. that was chewbacca from "star

wars" and george takei saying may her soul rest in eternal peace as we return her to a galaxy far, far away. she traveled everywhere with her bulldog, gary. a lot of people are thinking of gary today as well. in a sign of the capitalist signs, cinnabon tweeted rip carrie fisher. you'll always have the best buns in the galaxy because apparently everything is a branding opportunity these days. they did apologize but not before occurring internet wrath. one reaction, off you must log from yoda. my mom actually worked with carrie and just like everyone who did said the best things about her. she was razz close as we had to a modern dorothy parker. she was a razor wit, a role model for young women and a role model for all of us. she once said about dying, if i was going to do it, i'd want

someone like me around and her legacy will be around for a long, long time. parents today tweeting pictures of their daughters as princess leia. >> the pictures, i was scrolling, of all of the its girls dressed like leia, it was very, very touching. >> she's going to leave a long-lasting legacy. roane ronan, thank you very, very much. we've got one thing that you can do to live longer and it's not nothing to do with eating right or exercising. then hoda's unforgettable day undercover as a meter maid. hoda's mission to hand out tickets. these drivers were not expecting. and staying in for new year's? year's? we've got some befi was active.gia, i was energetic. then the chronic, widespread pain drained my energy. my doctor said moving more helps ease fibromyalgia pain. he also prescribed lyrica. fibromyalgia is thought to be the result of overactive nerves.

lyrica is believed to calm these nerves. for some, lyrica can significantly relieve fibromyalgia pain and improve function, so i feel better. lyrica may cause serious allergic reactions or suicidal thoughts or actions. tell your doctor right away if you have these, new or worsening depression, or unusual changes in mood or behavior. or swelling, trouble breathing, rash, hives, blisters, muscle pain with fever, tired feeling, or blurry vision. common side effects are dizziness, sleepiness, weight gain and swelling of hands, legs and feet. don't drink alcohol while taking lyrica. don't drive or use machinery until you know how lyrica affects you. those who have had a drug or alcohol problem may be more likely to misuse lyrica. with less pain, i can be more active. ask your doctor about lyrica. this piece is so you. i saw it and i was just like "oh, i have to have it..." state farm knows that every one those moments, there's one of these... this piece is so you. i saw it and i was just like "i have to have it..." from renters insurance... ...to rewards credit cards, state farm is here to help life go right.

noooooooooooo!cer: and we're going into overtime. oh. sam's choice stuffed crust pepperoni pizza, stuffed with three cheeses, $5.98 save money. live better. walmart. i'my bargain detergentgh a couldn't keep up.isaster. so, i switched to tide pods. they're super concentrated, so i get a better clean. tide. number one rated. it's got to be tide the holidays don't officialy begin, until it's time to make: flaky, delicious, piping hot things. golden brown and sticky things. fresh out of the oven, why can't they cool things? new things, old things. and blink and they're gone, those went fast things. make the oven one of the things they're most excited to open. it's baking season. warm up the holidays with pillsbury.

test. test. test. test. test. test. test. s found s found in living the life i want. full of the energy that comes with good health. full of the great foods i love. and at weight watchers, i don't have to choose between weight loss and living well. i live well, while losing weight. it is easier than it's ever been, and not one day have i felt deprived. most important, it works! join for free now and lose 10 pounds on us.

good wednesday morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. we have sunshine and another chilly morning with below freezing temperatures in some of the valleys. in livermore, 32. also 32 in morgan hill. 31 in fairfield while oakland is at 42 degrees. the same in san francisco. it will be a warmer afternoon, just a little warmer than yesterday, reaching the upper 50s to low 60s for some of those en land spots in san jose. up to 61 degrees and 59 degrees in palo alto, while santa rosa sees a high of 60 degrees. into the next couple days, dry weather, slightly warmer temperatures and by friday we're watching for a chance of spotty showers in the south bay as a storm moves in to so cal. i'll have more updates on that. let's see what's happening on the roadways with vianey. >> good morning. we are seeing slowing on the southbound 880 near fremont where you can see the slight

red. the let's take a look at your drive times in terms of the tri-valley. still seeing slowing westbound 580 to 680. westbound 84 to 680 at about mean minutes. the south bay also seeing slowing on northbound 101. back to you. vianey and kari, thanks. happening now on nbcbayarea.com, two people are in the hospital after a wrong-way driver caused a major crash on i-280 in san jose. chp says the driver slammed head on causing the person in the other car serious injuries. the driver going the wrong way is being treated for an ankle injury. the world continues to mourn the loss of "star wars" actress carrie fisher. a look back on her career and life. it was a curry christmas. steph curry as santa with riley as his help. check it out on our facebook page. i'll have another local news

update for you in half an hour. hope to see you then.

it's 8:00 on "today." coming up, the passing of a princess. tributes from costars, family and friends pour in for carrie fisher as we look back at the life and career of the actress born into hollywood royalty. plus that's the ticket. >> scoot up, scoot up. >> hoda goes undercover as a meter maid to hand out fake parking tickets and spread a little kidness while she's at it. >> you've got two tickets to see the next knicks. >> so it's not a parking ticket? >> no, sir. have a good day. >> and good boy. >> it's time to meet our puppy. >> our puppy with a purpose turns six months old and we're celebrating charlie in a big way, today, wednesday, december

28, 2016. celebrate our birthday on "today." >> i'm from louisiana, be brave! >> girls fun day in new york city. >> happy birthday, daddy! >> happy anniversary! >> i'm 10 on "today"! >> charlie's birthday. today on this wednesday, matt and savannah, al off. >> hi, charlie! charlie's half birthday. >> we're going to celebrate charlie's half-year birthday coming up in a little bit. >> that's coming up!

a great crowd. also ahead, we've got some last-minute ideas if you're doing a little new year's eve celebration at home. we've got some very, very easy ideas. we'll help you out isnn just a little bit. >> you break it, you buy it. >> keep it as a souvenir. >> carson is the only thing holding us together. let's get a check of today's headlines. here is your news at 8:00. we begin with the stunning loss of carrie fisher. i'm stephanie gosk. in interviews, fisher said she never thought she would be an actress but she always knew she would be a writer. fisher turned out to be prolific at both. >> what are you doing? >> reporter: carrie fisher, a force both on and off screen. >> i don't know who you are -- >> reporter: at 19 years old the actress drew on her own fear itsness and wit to give life to the legendary "star wars" character, princess leia.

>> will somebody get this big walking carpet out of my way. >> reporter: a symbol of childhood for fans across the world, now in mourning over the sudden death of their hero. before fisher traveled to a galaxy far, far away to achieve superstardom as the rebel princess, she was already considered hollywood royalty. the daughter of pop singer eddie fisher and debbie reynolds. fisher entered the family business at age 15, appearing alongside her mother in the 1973 broadway revival of "irene." she went on to appear in a long list of tv shows and movies, including "when harry met sally." >> he's never going to leave her. >> that was incredibly brave what you did. >> reporter: and more recently she reprised her iconic role in the latest installments of the "star wars" franchise, directed by j.j. abrams. >> i'm trying to be helpful. >> when did that ever help? >> abrams remembered fisher saying, quote, you didn't need to meet carrie fisher to

understand her power. and that power stretched far beyond the stage or screen. a prolific writer, fisher wrote several books, including her most recent memoir "the princess diarist" where she admits having a three-month affair with harrison ford on the set of "star wars." fisher joked with savannah on "today" just last month. >> one thing you're not going to get is a big bunch of steamy sex scenes or anything. >> thank god. >> well, i don't know if i feel that way. >> well, look at you. you've had a steamy sex scene, obviously. >> she often wrote about her own personal dark side, her battles with depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse and her tumultuous relationship with her mother. >> s she took us on every journey that she went through. that is one reason in addition to playing princess leah that she has such a special place. >> fisher reconciled with

reynolds and are both appearing on a documentary on hbo. this morning reynolds and fisher's daughter saddened by their loss and fisher's beloved therapy bull dog tweeted out i was always by your side but best of all you were always by mine. after spending the last day looking at interviews and appearances one of the things that really pops out is how funny carrie fisher was. you saw a little bit of that with savannah like laugh out loud funny. >> thank you very much. a tuesday security scare at trump tower. video shows people in the building's lobby running for exits after suspicious bag triggered an evacuation order. it was just a bag of toys. the president-elect was not home. for a second day mr. trump pushing back against president obama saying if he ran again he

could have won. trump tweeting president obama campaigned hard and personally in the very important swing states and lost. the second flight data recorder recovered from the military jet that crashed into the black sea on christmas day. the first was retrieved tuesday. today revealed the revelation is wing flaps were not working properly. and tesla's electric cars are being celebrated. it turns out they can apparently predict the future, too. this shows sensing something bad on the road before the human does. the car beeps to alert the driver of a problem then immediately it hits the brakes before the crash.

the two drivers involved in the accident escaped serious injuries. the live animal cam. we are on bald eagle hatching watch this morning. growing complaints that their toy hatchmales aren't hatching. and hoda dressing up as a meter maid to spread unexpected cheer. first these mess mgs.

right when you feel a cold sore, abreva can heal it in as few as two and a half days when used at the first sign. without it the virus spreads from cell to cell. only abreva penetrates deep and starts to work immediately to block the virus and protect healthy cells. you could heal your cold sore, fast, as fast as two and a half days when used at the first sign. learn how abreva starts to work immediately at abreva.com don't tough it out, knock it out, fast. with abreva. we rely on our courage.

the kind of courage that shows up when we need it... and when cancer is least expecting it. courage. just one reason more of us are surviving cancer than dying from it. give now to the american cancer society. in shoes and shoe boxes. impeccable taste; so they choose new meow mix bistro recipes, made with real chicken to make mealtime taste like a reservation for two. no wonder it's the only one cats ask for by name.

during the final days of it'the ford year end event.ve hurry in for the best deals of the season on ford, america's most awarded brand. with the most 5-star ratings... and the highest owner loyalty... giving drivers what matters most. that's how you become america's best-selling brand. just announced, get $1500 total cash on select models, on top of the best offers of the season. hurry, the final days of the ford year end event end january third. we are back at 8:10 with, guys, you ready? >> bruno mars in the background. you remember back in march the world could not seemingly look away from watching two bald

eagles hatch in washington, d.c. >> i love this. >> remember that? >> yeah. >> well, now there's a new pair to watch. we go down to ft. myers, florida. the parents, harriet and m-15 are in their second season of mating and with to become parents to two baby eagles. the eggs were laid on november 22nd and november 25th. they're expected to hatch sometime between right this second and new year's. the anticipation is causing thousands of people to watch the live stream, which you can go to youtube and watch it. it doesn't look like a whole lot is happening right now so we can move on. as we go through trending today, we'll go back. the idea of this hatchimals -- >> something is happening, we just can't see it because it's underneath her. >> eventually they're going to be feeding a cat to one of those babies. lots of morning tv mishaps. >> ronan, speaking of

hatchimals, what was supposed to be the hottest toy of the holiday season is now in some hot water. the interactive toy that hatches from an egg is upsetting a lot of kids and angering parents. many have taken to twitter claiming the toy never hatches or once it does, the battery dies immediately after. one dad took to social media and said hatchimal did not hatch after 14 hours and now all lights have gone off. my 4-year-old is gutted. others wrote that they were struggling to get in touch with customer service. the toy company, spin master, said spin master is committed to responding to customer questions and conferees as quickly as possible. in anticipation of the busy holiday season, we've increased capacity with our consumer care team and are working tibsly to respond. we'd like to thank you for your patience. spin master did not immediately respond to cnbc's request for comment. we had a hatchimal at our house. it went well. >> how did you get the

hatchimal. >> i work at the "today" show. >> she pulled strings. >> what do you do to make it hatch? >> you hold it. we hatched one, dylan was here before she actually had her baby, and held on to it with harry connick, ours hatched here. >> shall we go back to florida? >> let's see harriet. has she had her -- i said again eglets and matt said it's eaglets. >> and no dead cats. that's good news. i just did that for the reaction. well, they say kindness can go a long way, but can it help you live longer? that's what a new study is suggesting. it found a correlation amongst people who helped care for others versus people who didn't. the results found that those who looked after and cared for family members were more likely to live their life a lot longer. researchers say this pattern suggests that there is a link not only between helping and beneficial health effects but also between helping and

mortality. so long story short, it pays to be kind, everybody. you're going to live a lot longer. >> doesn't it feel good when you do something for a loved one but even a stranger? it just seems like from the inside out. >> it's just insignice to know there's some science behind that. >> let's go back and check out the eagle cam. what's happening? anything, anything? >> no births yet. >> let's keep going. we all know these brand names, gatorade, gap, panera and asos. we're going to test your knowledge to see if you know the meaning behind some of these big brands. gatorade, where did that come from? >> gatorade came from the university of florida, was it, the gators? no, the football players were having hydration. >> florida's football team. gap, this is for you. this one is for you. >> there was a market gap between the lower end stuff and the higher end stuff and they're

in between. >> i like that. >> it's a generational gap. yeah, yeah, adults and kids. >> give me half points. >> panera. >> well, that's pan is bread, so the era of bread? >> yeah, yeah. that's why you're a genius, like a rhodes scholar. >> and asos, what does it mean? >> no idea. >> as seen on screen. that's what it's an abbreviation for, as seen on screen. before we go to popstart, let's check in one more time at the eagles' nests. >> there's motion there. >> what's that? >> when did everybody become so fascinated by watching these hatch? >> i think it still represents birth and it's an eagle. anything happening? >> nothing is happening. popstart is happening and a lot to get to. it is not quite the new year, but there is, ladies and gentlemen, a new hollywood power couple in our midst. rumors that artist drake, 30, and jennifer lopez, 47, were a new item. those rumors started when drake

posted this picture with the famous superstar. however, j. lo said drake was just checking out her show and many people have been wondering maybe they're just working on new music together. while there's been no official word from either party that they are officially dating, perhaps this picture speaks for itself. it is the talk of town, as they say. j. lo and drake posting this photo early this morning. tamron, jump in here. which seems to indicate the two might just be more than friends. if you look at the picture, they look very, very cozy. he's -- tamron, are they a new couple? what are your thoughts? >> i've been trying to process -- can we put it back up. why is he looking at the camera with that one eye. if you're into someone, wouldn't you look at them? >> that indicates a publicity stunt to you? >> j. lo is reasonably private. would she go public with her relationship like that? >> rihanna apparently unfollowed

j. lo over the weekend. >> where's jeff rossen, i need to know. >> and dra-lo is the hash tag. we've got to get to katy perry and orlando bloom. the two recently visited a children's hospital dressed as santa and mrs. claus. but in some videos they shared, the pair dressed down and were playing a little game of pie face. first katy went up against her sister, angela. let's have a look at pie face. >> ready, set, go! >> i love this. i love this. >> love that. >> that's a fun game. katy did not win her round. let's see what happened when orlando went up against katy's brother, david. have a look. esh.

doesn't look like that was a fair part of that game but orlando having some fun there. >> we need one of those for the set. >> no, we do not. >> there's your popstart, guys. let's get another check of the weather. shanna mendiola is in for al this morning. >> good morning. i played that game. i have no problem with that. bring it on in. we'll take a look at your national maps. we do have some snow lingering in the northeast. also through the upper plains where we're seeing lingering showers, really not looking at much accumulation at all. otherwise looking very quiet across the country. you're seeing some dry conditions throughout southern california. you're looking at 76 today. unseasonably mild temperatures for the midwest as well with lingering snow. again in the pacific northwest causing things to be a little chillier in the 30s for you. down south we have a chance of thunderstorms through the tennessee, mississippi and ohio river valleys. then we've got some fog to start off wit i'm meteorologist kari hall.

it's still cold outside. it's only 32 degrees. now in the tri-valley a lot of sunshine and frosty conditions. 39 degrees in the peninsula. san francisco starts out the morning at 44. look at the north bay. we've dropped down to 28 degrees. it will at least be slightly warmer later today with the high of 58, peninsula in the tri-valley, in the north bay also up to 58 degrees. san francisco today 56 degrees. and that's your latest weather. now to more of the best of "today," revisiting some of our favorite stories of the year. >> near the top of the list, hoda's day in disguise for our shared kindness campaign. have a look. >> south orange, new jersey, a quaint manhattan suburb, is about to get hit with a dose of undercover kindness. >> let's start this thing. >> lengthens the tip a little

bit. >> i'm opting for the unibrow. >> my look is so convincing, no one will recognize me all day. >> scoot up, scoot up, scoot up. >> the ploy is that i'm impersonating a meter maid handing out tickets for ridiculous parking violations. the catch, attached to the phony tickets are much better tickets to the hottest events around. to catch the action we've outfitted the block with hidden cameras, and i'm even wearing a strategic button cam. >> this will transmit to your ear. >> you're 6 inches from the curb. i'm sorry, you get a ticket. >> are you going to talk in your regular voice? no. talk to the judge! >> with that settled, i am officially on duty. >> they are expired, by the way. >> i soon forget -- >> this guy has one minute left on his meter. >> that this is not my day job. >> you've got no time. you've got to put some money in there. >> yes, i'm helping citizens

left and right, but that's nothing compared to the joy i'm about to spread. >> i'm sorry, guys. sorry. >> i just parked my car. >> you're too far from the curb and your meter is not fed. >> read your ticket. >> and we're off. >> ma'am, you've got to open your ticket. >> what? >> you've got to open your ticket. >> what? is this a joke? why are you doing this? you're giving away free mariah carey tickets? >> just for you. >> i feel so bad, i just yelled at you. >> it's okay. have a good day. >> wow, thanks. >> you're welcome. >> i've got to give you a ticket. you're too close to the curb. you have to be more than that.

>> away from or -- what you mean? >> just take it to the judge, okay? >> too close from the curb. >> too close. >> too close to the curb? >> oh, god, this is turning into a nightmare. >> she finally opens it to find -- >> did you open it? >> what is this? >> it's a random act of kindness. enjoy yourself. >> thank you. >> enjoy yourself. good-bye. >> i was really going off like how are you supposed to be too close to the curb. thank you! >> oh, god, i'm exhausted. i think people might want to kill me. >> some folks have no idea what to make of the situation. >> you read your ticket, right, sir? >> i'm trying to understand it really. >> looks to me like you've got two tickets to see the knicks. >> oh, yeah. >> looks like you're in seconds 112, row 22, seat 6. you've got two tickets. >> oh. >> to see the knicks. >> so it's not a parking ticket.

>> no, sir. have a good day. >> thank you very much. thank you. >> some get it right away. >> what? what? >> oh, wow. >> i just put money in -- >> i just have to give you that ticket. that's a ticket for you. >> this lucky lady scores orchestra seats to the radio city christmas spectacular. she seems pretty cool with that. luckily after they figure it out, all is forgiven. >> you're going to see "hamilton." >> thank you. >> thank you whoever this is from. >> hello? why are you ticketing me? >> the best exchange is with a guy who was already having a really bad day. >> hello? i'm talking to you. >> please read the ticket, sir. >> can i have your badge number. >> please read -- okay.

okay, okay. >> open me. oh, my god. oh, my god. i'm so sorry. i apologize. oh, my god. >> it's all right. >> he even comes back to find me, vowing to pay it forward. >> i am so upset. >> don't be upset. >> i'm going to give them to somebody. i am. >> a little mischievous, maybe. but in the end i hope it's a reminder that it pays to be kind and feed the meter. >> that was the sweetest thing done in a long time. >> you got it. >> thank you. >> oh, so cute. >> i would watch that as a show all night long. that's a great show to watch. they're all so angry to get a ticket and then they're just

like -- that guy with the giants tickets are so happy. >> it shows you sometimes you've got an edge up and something happens that just melts it away. >> and hoda was so perfect. we want to thank ticketmaster, live nation and madison square garden for providing most of those tickets. coming up, diy ideas for throwing a new year's eve bash at your home. and a milestone in charlie's life. he's six months old now. can you believe it? we'll have more after your local news and weather. i'm ...

at least one of the two men arrested in connection to a deadly stabbing inside a target store on christmas eve-- is expected to be charged today. ==vo== and we're also learning new details of the viscous attack. the victim is tyrone griffin - a father of four. police say he was stabbed in the target store on whipple road in hayward. griffin was shopping with his four year old son. the suspects, who were arrested that night, are franke and jesse archuleta. witnesses say the victim was trying to talk to the men about their music because it was inappropriate for children. anchor toss to trx ad-lib toss to traffic traffic toss traffic ck traffic maps the roads aren't looking too bad. we did have a major accident on the 280. right now for the most part

green on the map which means nice flow of traffic. tri-valley drive times westbound 580 to 680, about 20 minutes to 680. south bay drive times also looking pretty good. bridges right now, well, the bridges are looking pretty good right now. no metering lights as of right now for the bay bridge. back to you. >> what a nice view. i'll have another local news update in half an hour. we hope you stay with us. until then we'll send you back to the "today show." we hope you stay tuned for our midday news as always at 11:00 a.m. have a great morning.

and we are we are back 8:30 now on wednesday morning december 28, 2016. a good looking crowd here in the plaza. t minus three days and counting until new year's eve. the gang is all here. >> we mentioned new year's eve there is a girl with a sign. she said she is looking for new year's -- you are hosting the big one. >> look who is a good dog. it's his birthday. our puppy with a purpose turns 6 months old.

>> if you think the best way to spend new year's eve is at home we have fun ideas to make things a little more festive. >> the new list of must visit vacation destinations in the new year. and jenna catches up with one of the hottest fashion designers in the world. he will reveal the funny way he found out the first lady chose his dress to wear for a very big speech. >> first a check of the weather. >> it is cooler here in new york city today. everybody is excited to be around the plaza, right? it is going to be a beautiful day today before a storm heads east. do enjoy the cool weather. we will see a cool down through new year's eve. the northeast will possibly see snow and heavy rain into the southeast. out west possible rain friday into saturday. new year's day dry out west. temperatures cooling into the 20s and 30s and mild temperatures for your christmas

day through the midwest. a little bit of rain continuing through the southeast portion of our country. florida beautiful at 80 degrees. in the northeast drier there. temperatures cooling down at the 40s. we were in the 60s yesterday. it is a little bit we've got a lot of sunshine all across the bay area. live look outside at san francisco. we will continue to see the sunshine throughout the afternoon as well. it's only 41 degrees, 42 in oakland and 39 degrees in p.a. palo alto with mid-30s for parts of the south bay. still below freezing in the tri-valley and north bay. but it warms up into the upper 50s to low 60s today in napa. 58, concord 59. in morgan hill today, 61 degrees half moon bay 60 degrees and 56 today in san francisco. >> you can get your forecast any time on the weather channel on cable. back to you, carson. >> thanks very much. if you're looking for a place to vacation in the new year, consider your search over. somebody has done all the hard

work for you. travel and leisure has just released their 50 most highly anticipated best and, yes, buzziest destinations for the new year. jackie gifford joins now, the magazine's special projects editor. good morning. >> good morning, carson. >> what was the criteria to find all these cool spots. >> we talked to our writers and contributors around the world and said what places have something exciting going on, maybe a big new cultural attraction, tons of new hotels opening and we compiled this master list. consider it your cheat sheet for where to go in the new year. >> let's start with a great spot here in the u.s., nashville. >> nashville has really been getting more and more popular over the past few years. honestly there's so much to do there. in 2017 there's a couple of big anniversaries. the country music hall of fame is turning 50. the food, there's so many great restaurants, bastion which has 24 seats, pinewood social, an

amazing bowling alley is open all hours of the night and hotels. 21 hotels opening in the spring. the public can come in and see incredible art. >> i feel like people feel like you have to be an aspiring musician to move to nashville. the food is excellent. you can find affordable housing and there's a lot going on there culturally. >> it's totally hot. everybody needs to go this year. >> the next spot is not on the mainland but what you're calling the next big cultural hub. >> honolulu. you want to go to the beach, take a surfing lesson, sit on the sands, all of that is there. for march 8th to may 8th they're bringing in local artists from all over the pacific rim and really it's going to be amazing because they'll have panel discussions, installations and a specific area will have all these incredible murals done by this company that are beautiful, really colorful, going on on warehouses, construction sites. then the surf jack hotel is also

about local art. so they have things like custom bird of paradise wallpaper. the pool has appear incredible graphic mural at the bottom that says wish you were here. just a really cool place to stay and that's right in the heart of waikiki. >> people just assume beach but there's a lot more happening there. >> that's important too but the cultural attractions are big too. >> if you're on the east coast, i've been there and i don't know if people think about it but it's bermuda. >> exactly. it's so easy to get to, especially from the east coast. >> it's a quick flight from here. >> a 90-minute flight from new york city. for 2017 they have a lot of big things going on. they'll be host to the 35's america's cup, the famous international sailing regatta. teams from all around the world will be there so the island is really excited about that. there have been a lot of hotel openings in anticipation. the hamilton princess is a beautiful hotel that went through a $100 million renovation. they added a marina, a pool and a new restaurant from celebrity

chef marcus samuelson. >> if you want some international travel, montreal is one of my favorite cities. you say that you can do it without breaking your bank. >> the exchange rate is actually in our favor. this year they're celebrating their 375th birthday. >> another quick flight from the east coast, less than an hour. >> you have french culture but then there's a festival, one of the winter's biggest festival, you've got igloofest, symphony performance, there's a brand new hotel called the william gray, contemporary rooms in two historic buildings and they also -- their museum of fine arts, they just added a whole new wing called the pavilion for peace that has 750 works by cup temporary and old masters. >> the restaurants there turn into -- they play music at night. it's a fun, fun town. >> and easy to get to. >> another international city is

in northern ireland. >> belfast. there's been a lot of new things that have opened over the past few years. things like titanic belfast which has nine interactive galleries. there's the bullet hotel inspired by the steve mcqueen film. rooms are about $200 a night. they're really sleek and contemporary. of course there's the muddler m pub. >> how do you remember all of this? i have a teleprompter and you don't. up next, christian sorano opens up about what it's been like to become the designer of the year. first, this is "today" on nbc. (my hero zero by lemonheads)

zero really can be a hero. get zero down, zero deposit, zero due at signing, and zero first month's payment on select volkswagen models. right now at the volkswagen sign then drive event.

cough doesn't sound so good. take mucinex dm. i'll text you in 4 hours when your cough returns. one pill lasts 12 hours, so... looks like i'm good all night! some cough medicines only last 4 hours. but just one mucinex lasts 12 hours. let's end this. there's no question 2016 has been an eventful year and it was

very good for a certain fashion designer. >> we're talking about christian siriano. jenna bush hager caught up with him. >> in the past year he's dressed celebrities, first ladies, set a red carpet record and got married. christian siriano just might call 2016 one of the best years of his life. oprah, jennifer lopez, gwyneth paltrow, kerry washington, all have one thing in common. christian siriano. siriano first caught our eye on "project runway" in 2007. >> i'm kind of fierce and i'm kind of celebrity in my own head. >> at just 21 years old his amazing designs charmed the judges in the audience. he became a star, winning the competition. >> it's been a lot of fun. >> it's very, very exciting. >> yeah, it's been great. >> while reality tv wins don't always guarantee real-life success, siriano's instant fame skyrocketed him into the world of high fashion.

>> was it overwhelming at the time? >> it was, yeah. i kind of launched in this kind of pop culture craziness. my biggest goal was to make sure that the clothes were fabulous and always amazing. >> siriano sets his brand apart by designing clothes for all shapes and sizes. >> you in some ways have stepped up as a designer that dresses all women, all body shapes, all type of women. >> yeah. it's way more fun. >> it's way more fun? >> way more fun. >> it's so funny because it is a simple thing, dressing all women. >> yeah. >> yet it's something that not everybody is doing. >> i like to embrace all women because i think that's what the business is. we're here to sell clothes, make women feel great and beautiful and why not do that in every size. >> fashion for everyone, inspired by his own family. >> my mom was a size 16, shauopd at lane bryant. that was her world. my sister was a ballet dancer and me and her were tiny.

my mom loved fashion, loved clothes so i was really in the full spectrum of the world. >> at this summer's democratic national convention, when first lady michelle obama wore a christian siriano dress, it was his mom who shared the news. >> i heard that you actually founding out that she was wearing your dress via text from your mom? >> yeah. my mom was like i'm pretty sure that's yours. she looks good. >> thanks, mom. >> you must have been proud. >> the dress was simple but it was a great moment internally. something that people will remember forever, i think. >> and when "ghost busters" star leslie jones lamented that no designer would dress her for the premiere, siriano came to the rescue. >> we wanted to give her her pretty woman, cinderella moment. who doesn't want to look beautiful in a dress. >> designing for jones was just one highlight in a busy 2016. siriano also got married, created a collection for lane bryant and even set a red carpet record when nine actresses

donned his designs at the emmys. >> who would you love to dress? >> there's a lot of people. we've dressed so many amazing, iconic fabulous women. i'm a big fan of julianne moore and cate blanchett. i try not to think about it too much. >> when you think back on this year, what was the high for you? >> the bigger message is the best part. the whole idea of just celebrating women in this world, wherever they live, wherever they're from, whatever it is, that's like the best part. >> and it was a crazy year for sure, but christian is definitely a designer in demand, so expect 2017 to be just as busy and exciting. >> thank you, jenna. >> pretty cool. mom texts you. first lady is in your dress. >> a huge fan of his designs. thanks, jenna. up next, we'll add you to some pizzazz to the list.

stay at home and add some fun to your new year's eve bash. this is "today" on nbc.

welcome back this morning on "today." stress-free holiday, new year's eve party ideas. >> if you're staying home, maybe having a few friends over, we've got some do-it-yourself tips to add a little sparkle to your celebration. we've got j.j. here with some creative ideas. you're a lifestyle expert. this first setup is just awesome. >> do you feel comfortable? i'm so glad. look, it's going to be saturday night so there's no excuse. we plbrought you so many great ideas. so let's start. say you have a store bought cake you pick up, you don't have to bake it yourself, these are just craft store numbers, just plop them in, bling it in and with a ribbon down here. >> what are the stickers in front? >> these are just craft store

stickers. you have your champagne glasses and you can make them festive for the occasion, 2017. drop the ball cupcakes, silver cupcakes. use a little edible silver glitter, draw the lines and you have your own disco balls. >> gorgeous. >> i'm so honored we made the hats. what's cool is that this is just black felt paper from a craft store. you can cut out a party hat temp pl -- template. left over boas and tinsel. these are craft store numbers that you can put on. look, you have your own customized party hat. >> i love that we have leftover boas at the house. >> we can't forget our kisses because who's getting kissed at midnight, right? so here's our midnight kisses. >> that's a good idea. >> hershey kisses in a clear craft store box. >> so this is like the elegant, sweet type of party.

>> there's plenty of activity still. >> if they have eaten over and come over for the ball drop. >> now, what about the bar party. >> our favorite, right, the bar party. so we can't forget about our champagne this evening. so this is a do-it-yourself champagne bar. >> soechlt, this is so cute. >> it's like a sundae for adults. >> what do you put in the champagne? >> gold gummies, sugar flowers, lemon zest, pomegranate seeds and you can fill that up. it's like a customized diy champagne bar. these glasses are from world market. these are the champagne glasses. i love this. >> these are great. >> cookie dough shots. how much fun is that? >> what is that? >> it's bailey's in there. you just take it down. you can just take it down. take off the cherry here. >> is there liquid in there? >> it's bailey's.

>> really? >> it's like santa's best shot. >> that's delicious. >> and french toast skewars. >> that looks good now but even better at 1:00 a.m. >> chip and dip guacamole. i love so you're not all sitting around the bowl. no double dipping if you do individual -- >> i love this idea. he's still drinking. >> i feel like gene wilder and willie wonka. >> it smells good too. >> okay, guys. and if we're doing the bar party, a little party favor, these are glittered doughnuts. edible glitter on that. >> how do do these? >> buy a store bought doughnut, sprinkle edible glitter, put it in a box and send it home. >> what a classy move, give them a favor to go out the door. >> this is the more fancy

dinner. >> formal fancy new year's eve. >> sitdown. >> this is a kissing ball. these are justburg andy carnations. >> is this difficult to make? >> no. this is a floral foam sphere. buy burgandy carnations and stick them in. if you want a cake. again, a store bought cake, dress it up. chocolate sauce, chocolate covered strawberries and put it on top. and so this is for the napkin. this is just a white dinner napkin and we made it a tuxedo and all the instructions will be on today.com. and then the clock plate, if we can look. see the clock plate, i want to show you guys, this is just a -- >> it's cool. >> it's just a silver charger and then this was a -- i downloaded this, cut it out and clear plates are so fantastic because, boom, and that's so easy. you can change that out. say you want to write something

a little saucy for your valentine or someone's birthday, so it's just a printable. >> these are fantastic ideas. >> yeah, well happy new year, guys, because here we go on saturday night. >> can you believe it's already saturday. one more, what were you going to say? >> and one more idea that's really easy, a black napkin. you can make this into a bow tie and jut pst put it through the napkin ring. >> you can also watch our show right here on nbc, mel b. will be there, blake shelton, jennifer lopez. it starts at 11:30 eastern and pacific. i have to work in a little plug for us there. j.j., thank you so much and happy new year. those are great ideas. thank you. >> great ideas. next a big moment in charlie's life in honor of our puppy's six-month birthday. first, this is "today" on nbc. you're popped out from partying?

all right. we are back celebrating a very special birthday. charlie, our puppy with a purpose, turned six months old on christmas day and marked the occasion with a big event, his very first plane ride. he traveled home with his america's vet dogs puppy raiser olivia and that milestone got us thinking in honor of charlie's six-month birthday, let's run through our top six charlie moments and milestones. we'll start at number six, playing with matt. this is a new morning ritual, matt and charlie snuggling and

it's awesome to watch. making new friends. there you go. that's charlie visiting a lot of the celebrities that come by the show here. charlie's halloween costume. it was a '90s theme, there was a beanie baby there. number three, we thought this was cool when charlie visited the u.s. navy academy. number two was charlie's first steps on the -- when we first met charlie right here in studio 1a and of course number one is all of the great training and the mile stones that charlie has been doing. let me bring in olivia here. what have you been working on with charlie? hows wa the flight home? >> it was awesome. he was a total pro. what he's been doing is working on one of the foundation service dogs tasks. so he's learning how to push things with his nose. eventually that will be handicapped plates and light switches. things like that. >> how do you train him to do that? >> we started with the palm mief hand and transferred to little buttons like this. charlie, stand. >> no pressure, birthday boy.

>> all right. push. >> oh, that's great. right on it. >> yep. he's got it. >> how has his training been overall? >> he's such a pleasure to work with. we have such a great team of people behind us. it makes it a wonderful experience. >> happy birthday. but we have a little something for charlie. oh, yeah, there we go. a little doggy cupcake. so happy birthday to charlie. tamron, back over to you. >> what a good dog. >> absolutely. and i think it's that time, guys. we're going to do our smuckers birthdays. happy birthday 103rd birthday to angina lien constantine. she enjoys traveling and spending time on the beach. alma kid, 100 years old. rumor has it she makes the best pound cake you will ever taste. happy birthday 100th birthday to ann jacobson. she was a competitive bowler until she was 98. joseph scarozo is celebrating 100 years. he was a muralist right here in

new york city. and warren stoddard of nashville, michigan, is also 100 years old. he volunteered as a boy scout leader for 30 years. and take a look at these love birds, happy birthday 75th an verse to harold and marian, high school skeweethearts. they say the secret to happy marriage is learning toi'm kirar ==topvo== a person was seriously hurt in a wrong way driver -- caused by good morning, 8:56. i'm kira klapper a person who was seriously hurt in a crash in san jose caused by a wrong way driver is in the hospital this morning. police say the driver was traveling in the northbound direction on southbound 280 near bird avenue early this morning. that driver hit another car head on causing the car to flip over. the person in that car suffered major injuries, and the wrong way driver suffered an ankle

injury. happening now, at least one of the two men arrested in connection to a deadly stabbing inside a target store on christmas eve is expected to be charged today. we're also learning more about the victim, who was a father of four. we learned that he asked the two men in the target store to turn down their music because it was inappropriate for his children to hear. we're tweeting those details now. plus, the world continues to mourn the loss of "star wars" actress carrie fisher who passed away yesterday morning. we have a look back at her career and her life on our home page. it was a curry christmas at an oakland church. steph curry acting as santa with rile y as his elf. check them out on our facebook page. i'll have another update in 30 minutes. once i heard i was going to

be a park ranger, i got really excited. gabe's obviously really sick. and there's a lot that he isn't able to do, and make-a-wish stepped in. we had to climb up the mountain to get the injured hiker. he fell from, like, a rock. he's been the one that has been rescued so many times. he said to me, "today, i got to be the hero." (avo) the subaru share the love event has helped grant the wishes of over twelve hundred kids so far. get a new subaru, and we'll donate two hundred and fifty dollars more to help those in need. ♪put a little love in your heart.♪

this morning on "today's take" why leo's lucky number was 6 and other notable numbers as we highlight 2016. plus a new year's bash challenge. two designers plan a big party on a small budget. and nfl star quarterback cam newton spreads holiday cheer by making a wish come true. all of that and more coming up now. >> announcer: from nbc news, this is "today's take." live from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. december 28th, 2016, a lovely crowd of people out here hanging out with us. i'm tamron hall along with craig melvin. good to see you back today. >> thanks for having me back. >> absolutely. you know, it's funny looking at that crowd this morning, the tree is still up. >> yes.

>> new year's right around the corner. i anchored "nightly news" last night and i'm rarely here late on a weekday because we start so early. i walk out of the studio at 6:30 and i've never seen so many people in my life, just packed. if you ever get a chance and are fortunate enough to visit new york, try to come around christmas. the scene is chaotic but it was exhilarating. >> i said the same thing yesterday and it makes perfect sense. folks are off this week. >> school is out. >> they come to the city, they get some after christmas shopping done and they stop and everyone does the same thing at the tree. they stop, they get their pictures, they line up for their selfies, so that creates the backup. >> i'm sure i photo bombed at least four people because i was trying to meander through the crowd. you walk through photos by accident. but it's so beautiful if you get a chance to come by. we've been remembering all morning long and last night carrie fisher. she died four days after suffering that heart attack. she was flying from london to l.a. just reflecting on really what

she meant not only for that franchise of "star wars" and her fantastic career, but women empowerment. princess leia as stephanie gosk, one of our nbc reporters who's been covering this, she was one of the original bad as of women characters out there. >> she was, she was. even beyond that, in addition to being one of the first feminists to a certain extent on the big screen, she did more for mental health advocacy in this country than a lot of folks realize, talking about her battles with addiction, talking about having bipolar disorder and bouts with depression as well. she spent a fair amount of time not just talking about it but writing about that as well. we've been going through a lot of the tweets and the remembrances. one from her dog. you know, she had this -- she had this 4-year-old dog. >> she was with her -- so she was here last month. savannah interviewed her. and gary was right at her side. he's been on television shows, late night shows, but he was in

studio. this was not like a prop dog, this was her companion. this was her -- you know, they called them dog children. that's the person who was with her all the time. >> gary looks like he's got as much personality as he does. someone set up an account for gary and dpaer tweeted saddest tweets to tweet. mommy is gone. i love you carrie fisher. reportedly her daughter is going to be looking after gary. >> yeah. they had a photo of gary and he's looking out in the distance. i have to say quite naturally you think of her mother, debbie reynolds and her family, her sister and children but i did think about this pet that's been with her at her side. also harrison ford released a statement. this was so interesting. he says carrie was one of a kind brilliant, original, funny and emotionally fearless. she lived her life bravely. that goes to what you were saying about her being so open. you know, when you're in tv, you of course want to be connected

to the people at home, the people who support your career and you want to have a level of honesty. you also want to protect your privacy. but when something has happened in your life that you feel can empower and help other people. >> yes. >> when i first started talking about what happened to my sister, i was so on the fence about how open should i be about domestic violence, but there was just this call that i could not ignore in my head. and with carrie fisher, as you said, craig, dealing with bipolar disorder, fame and the pressures, even being estranged at some point from her mother, debbie reynolds, and telling people i have this issue with my own parents. >> and she was doing it before a lot of actors and entertainers decided to become advocates for anything. she will certainly be greatly missed. >> we love her so much. >> there's a guy in iowa, i believe it's iowa, he runs a cabinet company. he might be the best boss in america. >> okay. this is a story. gary birch is his name.

and we've read mr. birch is taking all 800 employees, all of them, on a five-day caribbean cruise. yes. gary has chartered planes. she's going to take them up to miami and put them up one night before they board a carnival cruise ship. he challenged employees a year ago to meet certain goals and he offered this cruise incentive. what's been the best thing from a job, any job, not just this one, what's the best thing you've received from a boss? >> we got those nice blankets this year. >> i didn't get a blanket. >> at the holiday party. we got those blankets. >> i didn't get a blanket. did you guys get a blanket? >> did you guys get a blanket? >> i got a -- you may have left early. >> no one got a blanket. >> there were blankets. there were blankets. they were very nice. silver blankets. >> christine got -- so three out of the 15 people in here got a blanket? >> they may have run out of blankets but we'll certainly get

you a blanket. biet bottles of wine occasionally, but i've never had a boss take me on a trip. >> no. i know in the past we've done some raffles and things. i think at toys r us -- >> you worked at toys r us? >> that was my very first job. toys r us in texas, ike i got like a plush animal or something. but i figured i'm not working hard enough. >> tamron hall at toys r us. >> this is like a moment of pride for me. i started out in the plush section, which is stuffed animals. then i worked my way up to cashier and it was the most incredible -- and i remember getting my very first paycheck. and then you see like all of these acronyms for things that you've never -- >> fica. >> who is fica. then i went on to work at sears. i probably had some 46 -- i think i have at this point -- i've been a journalist for nearly 30 years, but prior to that i sold jewelry, toys r us, sears, i worked at an office

where basically i just licked the stamps and sealed stuff. i had seven or eight jobs and none of them provided a cruise ship, so congratulations to them. 800 people. have fun, don't drink too much on the cruise. >> he said that the last time they did something like this, they ran out of booze. >> you've got to be careful on a cruise. so thumb print thief. an arkansas mom discovered that she's been charged $250 for pokemon gifts on amazon. she initially assumed that somebody took her credit card. turns out her 6-year-old daughter ashlynn, had used her thumb print while she was asleep to unlock her mom's phone. so the picture that you're sleeping -- >> that's sleeping hard. >> when i go out, i go out. so she sneaks in and takes her mom's thumb. imagine, puts your finger on the phone. ashlynn told her mom she had been shopping and everything

that was ordered was coming straight to the house. she had to return four out of the 13 items. the rest were used as christmas gifts. that was the culprit. >> that's pretty creative. >> creative? >> yeah, pretty decrcreative. >> there's a certain amount of diabolical. >> is it petty larceny? probably. but my son, he's only 2 1/2. he's be watching something and the screen will lock and he'll be over and he'll touch you and want you to put your thumb on. >> when is he going to up his theft game and bring the credit card in? >> probably 4. >> i am impress wed how -- i feel like i'm 90 when i say this, the technology with kids. i see like 2-year-olds and they're like i know how to do it. i don't need you. they can just go parentless. it's the new "home alone." home with the computer. coming up, nfl superstar cam newton -- are you a fan of cam? >> huge fan. >> i'm a fan of his wardrobe. he has interesting taste. but beyond what you see on the outside, this guy apparently has

a big heart. wait until you see this wish that he granted. it is right up there with the best i will never wash my hair again. i will never never wash my hair again now, i fuel it new pantene doesn't just wash your hair, it fuels it. with the first pro-v nutrient blend, making every... ...strand stronger don't just wash your hair fuel it fuel your hair. because strong is beautiful. a farmer's market.ve what's in this kiester. a fire truck. even a marching band. and if i can get comfortable talking about this kiester, then you can get comfortable using preparation h. for any sort of discomfort in yours. preparation h. get comfortable with it. with all the rush in the morning, i don't have time to hashtag my breakfast. light & fit nonfat yogurt drinks.

nutrition that fits my crazy life. nine grams of protein, 90 calories, no added sugar. light & fit. do what fits you. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪

so i use excedrin.ments from my life. it starts to relieve migraine pain in just 30 minutes. and it works on my symptoms, too. now moments lost to migraines are moments gained with excedrin. [heartbeat] sure, you could sit around all night waiting for a pizza to be delivered. but wouldn't making it yourself be a lot more fun? it's baking season. warm up with pillsbury. we rely on our courage. the kind of courage that shows up when we need it... and when cancer is least expecting it. courage.

just one reason more of us are surviving cancer than dying from it. give now to the american cancer society. back with more of "today's take." we're still investigating at how the christmas party for the "today" show, craig melvin is the only one who got a blanket. >> sal got a blanket. >> there have been people been here 20, 30 years who didn't get a blanket. >> we have colleagues behind the camera who are like this. >> there's a story that's really gotten under -- >> it's not gotten under my

skin. so i woke up this morning. i didn't see this news. carson daly slides his phone over and says did you see this? there's this picture of j. lo, who i adore, and drake. they both put this picture out on their social media account. >> they're canoodling. >> last week drake popped up at j. lo's concert. i don't know, they were at a concert. and now this picture, and there's a report that rihanna unfollowed j. lo. now, it was just earlier this year drake was on stage presenting an award to rihanna saying that she's been the love of his life for 20 something years, the only one she's ever loved. and i get it, you move on. j. lo was with casper. >> i thought she was still with him. >> look at the picture one more time. do you think it's real? >> new york city it's not real. they're going to put out a song together. >> what's the giveaway that it's not real?

>> that it's drake and j. l j. lo canoodling? >> she's 46, he's 28. the age thing doesn't bother me at all. what makes you think that it's not real? >> i think those are two people in the past who have demonstrated a capacity to manipulate social media to get folks to talk about them. i think they probably have a song at some point coming out. >> they're both, i guess, single. >> i do not think they're dating. you think they are? it seems like you think this is a genuine love. i don't think drake was around for "living color," by the way. >> when she was a fly girl? >> right. >> she is still a fly girl. i don't know what to think anymore about social media. i just don't think they would both put the picture out there if it was a real relationship. i mean -- and this is the other thing, ladies, take a look closer. why is he looking at that camera and not her with the one eye? look. he should be -- like her eyes

are closed, she's in the moment. he's got the one -- he's making out with the picture. >> who's taking the picture? >> you know what, he's looking out for rihanna. keep one eye open. >> and this is a great story out of north carolina. >> it's amazing. >> a 10-year-old boy named austin has advanced pulmonary hypertension. he had one christmas wish. he wanted to meet carolina panthers quarterback cam newton. it was last week that austin's teener shared this message on facebook asking for people to spread the word, hoping that newton would hear about it. yesterday, wouldn't you know it, cam newton shows up. surprises austin at the henrietta egg elston hospital in atlanta. >> look at this and watch for the hug. look at this. look at that hug. you could feel it. >> cam newton said that he thought that his phone number was unlisted, but he had gotten roughly 100 calls from people saying, hey, you've got to get

to atlanta to meet this kid. >> they found his actual phone number. >> i guess people who knew him said, cam, you've got to get down to atlanta. and he's got a fantastic teacher too that put that out there. >> that hug, though, you can just feel it in your soul there. congratulations to cam for just being a good guy with that one. amazon had its best holiday season ever. they shipped 1 billion items. 200,000 of those to my house. and coming up shortly, we're going to have a new year's eve party decorating challenge. all items purchased on amazon prime for just $250. here's the deal, the segment is created with our sponsor, amazon. we have two designers that are going to go head to head and show their stuff. best of all, we can steal some of the ideas. >> can we just steal the items? >> you already stole a blanket from the christmas party. >> all right. here we go. >> but we're going to have that challenge coming up with great

decorating ideas. me >> i love when -- so we have some of the most macho guys in the world on this show who i love and they are like who's taking that picture, do you think rihanna was there? >> i'm very curious about who was taking the picture. >> probably one of j. lo's employees. that was your latest weather. up next, is it okay to leave a party without saying good-bye? >> you do it all the time. >> i do.

hoda causes the houdini. she sneaks out. she sneaks out. get ready to play our at st. jude children's research hospital, she sneaks out. get ready to play our we're fighting for kids not as lucky as yours. our breakthrough cancer treatments are shared with doctors across america. and no family pays st. jude for treatments, travel, housing or food. because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. so if you have health kids, give thanks. give thanks for the healthy kids in your life, and give to those who are not. go to stjude.org or shop where you see the st. jude logo. it's a really big deal. and with fever, aches, and chills, mom knows it needs a big solution: an antiviral. don't kid around with the flu, call your doctor

within the first 48 hours of symptoms and ask about prescription tamiflu. attack the flu virus at its source with tamiflu, an antiviral that helps stop it from spreading in the body. tamiflu in liquid form is fda approved to treat the flu in people two weeks of age and older whose flu symptoms started within the last two days. before taking tamiflu tell your doctor if you're pregnant, nursing, have serious health conditions, or take other medicines. if you develop an allergic reaction, a severe rash, or signs of unusual behavior, stop taking tamiflu and call your doctor immediately. children and adolescents in particular may be at an increased risk of seizures, confusion, or abnormal behavior. the most common side effects are mild to moderate nausea, vomiting and headache. anti-flu? go antiviral with tamiflu.

♪ well, if you want to sing out, sing out ♪ ♪ and if you want to be free, be free ♪ ♪ 'cause there's a million things to be ♪ ♪ you know that there are ♪ and if you want to be me, be me ♪ ♪ and if you want to be you, be you ♪ ♪ 'cause there's a million things to do ♪ ♪ you know that there are ♪ she pretty much lives in her favorite princess dress. but once a week i let her play sheriff so i can wash it. i use tide to get out those week old stains and downy to get it fresh and soft. you are free to go. tide and downy together.

party on new year's eve. there are so many social questions like when someone is annoying, what do you do? how long do you stand around, what's okay to post online. it's enough to make you go mad and stay home. >> so the etiquette expert and author of "social skills for success" is going to help solve all of your party predicaments. a little game called the dos and don'ts of new year's eve party etiquette. >> if i were at a party i'd say that is a beautiful top and that's a smokin' hot top. that's how you break the ice, if it's true. >> here's how it works. i'm going to give you guys a do or a don't scenario. when you know the answer, be the first to chime in with your squawker and place your guess.

>> ohs are that's the squawker. >> do they work? >> mine works, i just tested it. >> blow your squawker, place your guess. if you get it right, you get a point. the first -- the most prize -- the person who gets the most, you're the winner, you get a prize. wait till you see the prize. >> oh, there is a prize. >> do or don't. come empty-handed to a party if you know you're going -- >> craig. >> you never show up empty to a party. >> your mama taught you well. >> i'm from south carolina. >> my mama taught me well and i was waiting for the question to be done. >> she said you show up at a party empty-handed. >> that's right. never, ever show up empty-handed. all the work someone put into this party. bring something. it doesn't matter. it could be something as small as a token gift, it doesn't matter. thoughtfulness. oh, attach something that says your name on it so your gift doesn't know unnoticed. >> that's the key because a lot of people forget to put their

names on it, so you've got to make sure. >> are you guys ready? here we go. do or don't. you're at a big party. can you leave without saying good-bye if you don't have -- >> you should probably wait to hear the end of that one. >> this is getting aggressive here. >> tamron. >> i'm going to tell you what i do and you tell me -- i often sneak out especially if the person is talking, i don't want to distract them from other guests. i think you can walk out. >> tamron, you won a point. >> you got so lucky. >> it's all about numbers. if the party has more than 50 guests, don't worry about it. your departure is likely going to go unnoticed. however, if you're talking 20 or less guests, you're going to go noticed, so give your good-byes. >> you were validating her rudeness right now. >> so leave early. leave when there's a high number of guests. >> these are called the irish good-byes and the french exit, i think. here we go. question number three, do or don't. bring kids to a party where

there won't be any other kids. okay, craig. >> please don't do that. >> i don't mind it. >> with no other kids? >> my house is not the most kid friendly, but i don't mind it. >> craig is the winner here. if i showed up with my 1 and 4-year-old, let me tell you the whole dynamic of the party would change. >> yes. >> but here's my deal. if you tell me in advance, i've had friends say can i bring over -- >> what do you tell them? >> i say it's okay but i say my house is not the most kid friendly. >> don't have them touch anything. >> i don't mind it. >> but if you're the party goer -- that's from the host perspective. if you're the party goer, don't bring your kids no matter what. just send a text, can't make it. >> we're out of time. >> oh, my goodness, but i think craig won. all right, craig. so your prize, a new year hat. >> your wife is going to love you in that one. >> you are going to be very

special this holiday season. >> there at times square, bulledy. >> that's good information, thank you. next up, two top designers go head to head. >> we'll go head to head to create the best new year's eve bash on a budget. this is ok, let me explain. this is your tax return. ok. now, there are many right ways to fill out this tax return. and the irs will accept them all. one of them gets you the most money back. isn't that the one you want? that's the one i want. that's the one you want. mmm... you touched all these. . . ur tax.

a gilroy man is under arrest for the murder of his mother. ==vo== santa clara county sheriff's deputies tell us 'matthew salewske' beat 'claudia salewske' to death... with a baseball bat on christmas day. claudia was a leader with the gilroy historical society ... and a longtime educator at gilroy high and san jose state university. friends and colleagues described her as 'universally beloved'. a motive for the killing hasn't been released. ==kira/rail== a high-end outlet in the east bay... is being accused of discriminating against customers of color. a former employee of versace... is now suing the company... after working at the brand's outlet store in livermore. ==rail== according to the lawsuit -- christopher sampino... who is black... says he was told to use a specific code when a black person entered the store. ==change== he also accuses managers of

treating him differently and ultimately firing him because of his race. versace filed a response to the lawsuit -- denying all of the claims. ==take chy== the company also issued a statement to several media outlets, saying in part: we do not tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, national igin any other characteristic protected by our civil rights laws. anchor toss to break we'll have a look at weather and traffic after the break... . . . . . weather toss to traffic

traffic good wednesday morning, i am meteorologist kari hall.

we have. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . one holiday weekend down but another one right around the corner so we put two interior designers to a new year's eve party challenge with only $250 each to spend. >> i love this. everything they ordered came from amazon, which is sponsoring this segment, and it all took just two days to arrive so we can't wait to see what they have done with it. betsy and francesco, good morning, guys. we're going to send you over to your room. >> this is nice, it's okay. >> this is a competition. >> i'm a sucker for black and white. >> good.

welcome to my black and white ball. i looked up trends for 2017 and black and white is huge in home fashion and regular clothing fashion so i decided to really live it up. >> so me what you did. at first i chose a statement piece, something that will continue around the party. so i've got my feather garlands, my feather photo op wall and feathers on the consults. >> this is your photo op wall. >> so take your selfies right here. you have this amazing background where it really pops. >> okay. >> and another budget friendly tip is reusing your current couch cushions but recovering them. i got $7 covers, used the pillows already here and tied them with a bow. >> will this take some time to recover? >> two seconds. >> just put it over what i have? >> that's right. >> i love it. what else do you have in your room? >> one of my favorite tips is buying in bulk. so rather than buying a lot of stuff, just by three items but get tons of them. i got 120 fefrtathers, 30 yards

fabric and 30 yards of ribbon and i have so much left over. >> what did you do with the fabric? >> it's in the drape, the pompons. >> tell me about the table. >> decals are not just for your wall. i love them on coffee tables, even your windows. apply it with a credit card and it comes right off. >> you stayed around $250. >> i was at $247. >> this is very creative. i don't know, you've got your work cut out for you. >> so let's start about these fancy little side tables. >> here's the thing. when you have a dining room, think about moving the chairs outside of your table and put them up against the wall. i founding a pack of stools, i can use them afterwards but they also double as a table. under 50 for a set of them and it gives you these little vignettes. >> the color is nice too. >> this is very colorful and

cheerful, quite opposite than -- that's before midnight, this is after midnight. so think about your table in a different way. so i double duty my centerpiece as also what i'm going to be serving. for champagne party favors, it makes a beautiful centerpiece, it's easy and you'll save money on floral. those plastic table cloths, easy, it protects the table. cover it up and then do these beautiful mylar shiny raindrop curtains and you've got to have clocks for each time zone. >> how much were these? >> couple of bucks each and they play as well. and then take it a step further and use some buckets for your foods and your balloons and just make it festive. it's supposed to be cheerful but it was inexpensive to do as well. >> and all for under $250. that does not include the foods and the booze. >> no. >> okay. just the deck races.

what are these things? >> these are ribbons. these are something you can reuse again. a lot of the things i found you can actually reuse again and again and again and it takes no time either. this time of the holiday season, i'm done. and it's okay to use plastic too, by the way. throw everything on the table. when you're done literally, take this plastic thing up and you're done. clean and sicmple. >> if it's been a great new year's eve party, come new year's day, that's what you want. >> you know what's interesting, i do feel like betsy's creation fits my style and craig and the kids, this is more in line with your style. >> absolutely. >> i do. i think you're both winners because i really would transition yours to my home. that's fantastic. >> happy 2017, everybody. >> francesco had too many already. >> thank you, everybody. >> this was super awesome. i love it. so it was the year of

beyonce and i guess some other things did happen. we'll look back at the biggest stories of 2016, starting with the unforgettable super bowl performance. that was a moment, right? >> a surprise moment go, go! [ rock music playing ] have fun with your replaced windows. run away! [ grunts ] leave him! leave him! [ music continues ] brick and mortar, what?! [ music continues ] [ tires screech ] . . . . rance rogressive, ou bunme and a you get more than a big discount. that's what you get for bundling home and auto! jamie! you get sneaky-good coverage. thanks. we're gonna live forever! . taking a holiday in britain, are ya doll?

well, the only place you need go... london's got the best of everything. cornwall's got the best of everything. sport sport nightlife nightlife (both) fashion adventure i'm tellin' ya, britain is the only place you really need go. expedia. everything you need to travel britain better.

if you want to carmax will give you seven days to consider their offer. why seven days? science. join me as we walk through the seven stages of decisioning. 1. consideration. 2. questioning. 3. deciding. 4. queso. 5. nap. 6. sudoku. 7. tambourine practice. i think i made my point. they'll give you an offer for your car, you take seven days to think about it. ♪ what's the best way to get v8 or a fancy juice store?s? ready, go! hi, juice universe? one large rutabaga, with eggplant... done! that's not fair. glad i had a v8. the original way to fuel your day. by the time you head to the bank and wait to get approved for a home loan, that newly listed, mid-century ranch with the garden patio will be gone. or you could push that button. sfx: rocket launching. cockpit sounds and music crescendo. skip the bank, skip the waiting, and go completely online.

get the confidence that comes from a secure, qualified mortgage approval in minutes. lift the burden of getting a home loan with rocket mortgage by quicken loans. (whisper) rocket sinci've lost over 40 pounds. weight watchers, i can honestly tell you, i struggle no more. i've eaten everything i love. tacos, pasta... i've never felt deprived. i would say to anybody who's thinking about joining weight watchers... take the leap,

and get about the business of enjoying a fantastic and full life. in the first 2 months members have lost 15% more weight than on our prior program. join for free now and lose 10 pounds on us. but when we brought our daughter home, that was it. now i have nicoderm cq. the nicoderm cq patch with unique extended release technology helps prevent your urge to smoke all day. it's the best thing that ever happened to me. every great why needs a great how. . i heard what you just said in commercial break. this morning we're kicking off our three-part sweet 16 series recapping the major events that entertained and enthralled all of us in 2016. >> we're counting down the hottest headlines with the help of chris witherspoon. always good to see you. >> chris, we love you. >> let's launch in. number 6. >> number 6 is leonardo dicaprio. >> why?

>> so after six oscar nominations throughout the course of his career, leonardo dicaprio finally took home an oscar win this february. it was a huge moment on twitter. over 440,000 tweets per minute. the most tweeted moment ever in oscar telecast history, right behind ellen degeneres and that tweeted selfie. that was 225,000 tweets per minute. >> i never would have guessed that. >> leonardo dicaprio really threw himself into this role. it's been a long time in the making. he's gotten nominations and some of his work is at tphenomenal. >> number 5 for 2016. >> number 5 is michael phelps. michael phelps won five gold medals this olympics, his fifth olympics. he's now the most decorated olympian of all time. 28 gold medals -- 28 medals, 23 of those are gold. he also had a huge year this year in his personal life. he had a baby, a beautiful kid named boomer. to me he was like the star.

each time michael phelps was in the star, you saw his wife, nicole, holding boomer looking so cute. boomer has his own instagram account. over 700,000 followers. >> when we were in rio, boomer comes into a room, he and his mom come in, all eyes on boomer. >> the photos are just adorable. >> they posted photos of their wedding recently. >> they got married a month after she had a kid and she looked amazing. >> coming in at number 4. >> the chicago cubs. now, the cubs fourth win against the cleveland indians is what locked in the world series. it was a huge game, everyone was watching. even folks that aren't sports fans, this is the biggest sports story of 2016. 108 years in the making. what doesn't want to watch that and see that happen. i'm from cleveland, i shouldn't even admit this, but i was at home cheering for the cubs. >> you were not! >> i wanted to see history happen. i wanted to see history happen. look, vince vaughn and bill murray were always at this game. i think my little happy ending is to see them do a film, maybe

a hollywood movie of this historic moment because it was just so big. >> i loved that. coming in at number 3 in our sweet 16. >> this is pretty sad. i was telling you we've lost a lot of celebrities this year. david bowie, george michael, prince, bowie was 69, prince 57 and george michael 53 passed away christmas day. reaction to fans on social media has been really swift and it's all heartfelt emotional reactions. you can go to prince's home in paisley park and it is now a museum. bottom line, no more deaths of selects. we've had way too many. >> what's at number two? >> queen b., beyonce. she slayed at the super bowl halftime show. her second time performing at the halftime show. absolutely amazing. a huge surprise. this has been a year full of surprises for beyonce. she came out, no one knew what was going to happen.

she released her digital album in april and racked up nine grammy nominations this year, the most nominations she's ever garnered for one album so this is going to be a huge year for her. >> i've forgotten how much of a super bowl performance that was. >> this was huge. >> she was not the headliner. it was cold play. it was not her year. >> i was at home screaming, jumping up and down. >> and now number 1. >> number 1 we have a new president that's number one. we have one new president in 2016. he's really become a pop culture phenomen phenomenon. "saturday night live" 8 million viewers tuned in. >> to hear him tell it, no one is watching. >> alec baldwin delivered an amazing performance as donald trump and kate mckinnon really had a star is born moment this year as hillary clinton. she just now was honored with the usa today's entertainer of the year. so we can see a trend throughout

big surprises in 2016. i think even more surprises next year. >> when you look back at some of these, i still think the cubs win, they'll talk about that for generations. >> is that your vote? i think mine is -- well, it's this super bowl performance, but i'm surprised at lemonade because that was 2016. my whole life stopped with lemonade. >> i'm still not quite breathing yet. >> thank you, chris. chris is of course with our sister company fand good morning, i am meteorologist, kari hall, in san francisco today expect a high of 56 degrees. a lot of sunshine and tomorrow warmer but then temperatures start to drop off. wrapping up 2016, scattered showers will be moviing on saturday and next week's highs only in the upper 40s. today and tomorrow and once again a cooler weekend ahead

wer weekend ahead welcom may see so early showers. latest weather. al roker will be back tomorrow. i can do this. we are going to go walking in a winter wonderland with holiday heroes. oes after this. we'll be right back. . . . . how is this possible? it's a light soup and yet it's real food? carrots, celery, and now 100% antibotic and hormone free white breast meat chicken? it boggles the mind!

ah. i need to sit down. that sound. like nails on a chalkboard. but listen to this: (family talking) that's a different kind of sound. the sound of the weekend. it's baking season. warm up with pillsbury. we rely on our courage. the kind of courage that shows up when we need it... and when cancer is least expecting it. courage. just one reason more of us are surviving cancer than dying from it. give now to the american cancer society.

rightabreva can heal itold sore, in as few as two and a half days when used at the first sign. without it the virus spreads from cell to cell. only abreva penetrates deep and starts to work immediately to block the virus and protect healthy cells. you could heal your cold sore, fast, as fast as two and a half days when used at the first sign. learn how abreva starts to work immediately at abreva.com don't tough it out, knock it out, fast. with abreva. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪

with all the rush in the morning, i don't have time to hashtag my breakfast. light & fit nonfat yogurt drinks. nutrition that fits my crazy life. nine grams of protein, 90 calories, no added sugar. light & fit. do what fits you. my swthis scarf all thatsara. left to remem... what! she washed this like a month ago the long lasting scent of gain flings so, how much longer do you think this will take? i'll over-explain the process, then give you an unrealistic timeline. i'll nod in agreement so my wife thinks i understand what you're saying. i look forward to questioning your every move. okay, well i'll leave your house in shambles and disappear for six months. wouldn't it be great if everyone said what they meant? the citi® double cash card does. it lets you earn double cash back: 1% when you buy, and 1% as you pay. the citi double cash card. double means double.

the citi concert series on "today" is proudly presented to you by citi. we are so happy this morning to be joined by one of our favorite organizations, the uso. they are known for their unwavering support of our country's military personnel.

we have the show troupe for our special performance. welcome to the show. so you have the show troupe here with you. tell me a little bit about holiday for heroes. >> we are on a mission to connect service memories back to families. we partnered with fed ex and came up with an idea to get packages out to people far from home down in the middle east. we get holiday in a box to make sure they are here with us in spirit. >> i see antlers. >> it is everything from your basic toiletry kits but holiday treats and games and movies, the raw materials to have a great holiday experience. >> my dad was in the army for 20 years. what is your message for them this holiday season? >> we are here, with you and always with you.

that is the goal for the uso. and we will hook you up in any way you want to show the military you are there for them splmpt dw thank you to the uso. i can't wait for this performance. are you really to take it away? here we go. ♪ sleigh bells ring are you listening ♪ ♪ in the lane snow is glistening ♪ ♪ a beautiful sight we're happy tonight walking in a winter wonderland ♪ ♪ gone away is the blue bird ♪ here to stay is a new bird ♪ he sings a love song as we go along ♪ ♪ walking in a winter wonderland ♪ ♪ in the meadow we can build a snowman and pretend that he is parse and brown ♪

♪ he'll say are you married and we'll so man but you can do the job when you're in town ♪ ♪ later on we'll conspire as we dream by the fire ♪ ♪ the plans that we made walking in a winter wonderland ♪ ♪ walking in a winter wonderland ♪ >> that is wonderful. thank you so much. thank you so much. show troupe congratulations on everything. happy holidays. we are going to be back in a moment. this is "today" on nbc. thank you to all theen and m

thank you for my buddy, craig melvin. he's headed over to msnbc.

>> i'm monica. hi to my family and happy holidays to all service members. >> i'm kimberly. hello to my family and happy holidays. >> hi, i'm amanda and hello to my husband, shawn. >> and i'm skyler. >> we already know paul. congratulations again. you guys are phenomenal. kathie lee and hoda are up next.

. . . . after a chilly start, we'll see those highs reaching 56 degrees, 58 degrees for tomorrow and then the temperatures start to cool down as we get ready to wrap up 2016.

spotty showers moving ing in th forecast. for the in land areas, it will be up to 63 degrees for tomorrow. lets get a look for this morning's commute now. >> good morning, kari, chp did issue a signal alert near palo alto. heading northbound on 101, a crash has blocked the lanes. as of now, it is cleared. if this is your commute, you may want to get an early start because it is start to backup out there. drive time right now is not looking too bad. over the south bay drive time, it is pretty smooth and light for the holiday travel. sam. >> all right, thank you very much, happening right now in nbc bayarea.com after a wrong way driver caused a major crash around 3:30 in the morning. the driver slammed head onto the

other car. the driver going the right way is treated for an ankle injury and police say alcohol was a factor. >> and carrie fisher passed away yesterday. a look back of her career on our app. we'll see you again in 30 minutes.

>> announcer: from nbc news, this is "today" with kathie lee gifford and hoda kotb from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. >> we lov our wines day wednesday. >> yes, we do. >> december 28th. >> who is that? >> kenny chesney. taking a trip around the sun. loves to do that. >> bare foot. playing mind games with two of the stars of the netflix series "white rabbit project" claiming they can control your every movement and you'll have to see it to believe it. >> what does that mean? >> getting hooked up to something and they're going to give you orders and you're not going not be able to not d