hope you play it safe. join us for nbc bay area news at 11:00. be safe. good morning. white house turmoil. president trump's white house turmoil. president trump's nominee for labor secretary suddenly withdraws. congress, now asking for an investigation into those intelligence leaks surrounding the resignation of his national security adviser. after a rocky start, can the trump administration get itself back on track? new arrests. two more people taken into custody in connection with the deadly toxic liquid attack on the half-brother of kim jong-un. as the north korean leader surfaces for the first time since that incident. . and breathtaking. ten years after "planet earth"

debut. we have our spectacular first look, today, thursday, february 16th, 2017. >> announcer: from nbc news, this is "today" with matt lauer and savannah guthrie. live from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. >> good morning, everyone. welcome to "today" on a thursday morning. we're happy to have hallie jackson up from washington to fill in for savannah. it's like the spy who came in from the cold. >> i'm telling you, indoors for once. no scarf. no jacket. a pleasure. >> great to have you here. did you see "planet earth i"? >> i loved it. watched the series on dvd. >> they tell us "planet earth ii" has the most incredible scenes. look at this with the lizards and the snakes. >> it went viral. >> it did. there's a washington joke there somewhere. but i'm not going to make it. let's get right to our top story. the white house, dealing with a series of controversies,

including new questions over the trump campaign's possible tie toss russia, and the president's cabinet pick whose nomination failed. our political team is at the ready, starting with nbc's peter alexander. he's at the white house. peter, good morning to you. >> reporter: matt, good morning to you. donald trump's presidency is not even a month old, but it's already mired in a series of crisis, from the michael flynn fiasco to questions about the trump campaign's, and all of it posing major challenges for an administration that's barely out of the blocks. after a tumultuous 48 hours, the president losing both his national security adviser and his pick for the labor department. another critical headline. "time" magazine profiling a white house in turmoil. still, president trump remains defiant. >> general flynn is a wonderful man. >> reporter: defending michael flynn just days after demanding his resignation. >> i think he's been treated very, very unfairly by the media. as i call it, the fake media, in

many cases. >> reporter: mr. trump's comments a stark contrast to his press secretary's explanation, just 24 hours earlier, blaming flynn for an erosion of trust. >> this was an act of trust. whether or not he actually misled the vice president was the issue. >> reporter: mr. trump's condemnation of leaks -- >> it's a criminal action. a criminal act. >> reporter: another 180 from his comments as a candidate. >> i love reading the wikileaks. >> reporter: late wednesday night two chairmen of the house committees asking the justice department to look into the recent leaks. president trump also ignoring questions about his alleged contacts with russian intelligence officials. still, some republicans are speaking out. >> if there's evidence of collaboration between trump campaign officials and russian operatives, that would be very serious. that would be a game-changer. >> reporter: left unanswered, why it took nearly three weeks to ask for flynn's resignation, after the justice department warned him about flynn. and why the vice president was kept in the dark for 15 days.

late wednesday, more fallout. the senate judiciary committee requesting a formal briefing on what led to flynn's resignation. including transcripts of flynn's intercepted calls with the russian ambassador. this morning, the white house is also looking for a labor secretary, after andy puzder's abrupt withdraw. the carl's jr. and hardee's ceo dropping out amid growing resist including evaporatic support from republicans. among the red flags, this interview with oprah winfrey, obtained by politico, where puzder's ex-wife described allegations of domestic abuse. >> he vowed revenge. he said, i will see you in the gutter. this will never be over. you will pay for this. >> reporter: puzder has always denied allegations that came during a heated divorce. and his ex-wife has recanted. his nomination derailed by racy commercials for his restaurant chains, that critics blasted as sexist. >> this morning president trump

is up again tweeting. here is the latest. he says they made up a story, all caps, fake news, and that president trump is looking to shake up the intelligence community with a broad review of the spy agencies form the president's pick i'ming to to head up the review stephen feinberg, a billionaire private equity executive is his choice to lead this. it still would have to be reviewed by the office of government ethics, but that's the latest here, matt. >> peter, thank you. former trump campaign adviser, roger stone, is with he's one of four people cited in "the new york times" report, who has been examined by the fbi over the alleged contacts with officials.

also the author of the book, "making of the president 2016." mr. stone, it's good to see you. good morning. >> it's good to be here. >> let's get this on the record. did you at any time, as a representative of the trump campaign, have regular contacts with russian officials during the election? >> categorically, positively not. >> even if it's someone working with the russian government, you are sure there was no contact? >> absolutely not. >> why did you get connected to this story? >> excellent question. first of all, i've never been notified by anyone in government, that there is an investigation or i'm the subject of one. >> the fbi never contacted you? >> i never heard from anyone in law enforcement at all, including the fbi. they would be pretty bored if they want to look at my e-mails and transmissions because they won't find anything of this nature. i have no russian clients. i was never in touch with anyone in russia. i was not talking to anyone i believe to be an intermediate

for the russians. if there was a congressional investigation, would you testify under oath during any investigation? >> i would be happy to. i would like any fair, unbiased investigation, to clear the air once and for all. >> when you hear the story, on the same day that president obama imposed sanctions on russia for meddling in our election, the same day that vladimir putin vowed retaliation for the sanctions, general flynn called the russian ambassador and after that phone call, there was no russian retaliation for those sanctions. does it smell bad to you? >> well, not as bad as the fact that the same exact story ran almost word-for-word, recycled in fact, from january 20th, the day that donald trump was inaugurated. the same story, with the same lack of proof. >> let's talk about general flynn. his role as the national security adviser. >> yes. >> and to matt's point here, you're a long-time operative. you know this stuff. doesn't this seem strange to you. >> i'm not sure i understand

what part would be strange. >> that phone call would have happened on that day and the result would be no retaliation from the russians. >> i think the russians would like to have a better relationship with both donald trump and the united states. we now understand that general flynn committed no crime, but the exposure, the disclosure of the fact he was monitored by the government, that is a crime. someone has committed a crime there. >> would someone like general flynn picked up the phone on that day without the authority of the president or the president-elect at that time? >> based on the transcript i read, the purpose of the call was to set up a phone call for the president of the united states. >> what transcript did you read? >> that would not be inappropriate. i read a transcript, i thought it was in the times, where they skirt the question of sanctions, and the purpose of -- >> i think it was paraphrased. i don't think it was an actual transcript. let me ask you what's going on in the white house. the resignation or firing of general flynn. it seems as if there's a struggle for power in the west wing. you know all the players. what's going on? >> i do think that unfortunately there

seems to be a division between those who are loyal to the president and those who are loyal to the republican national committee. i generally think that in the newest administration, you should hire as many experienced, capable people, who are supporters of yours and are loyal to donald trump from the beginning. there are rooms in the departments for people who are just republicans. but the leaking coming out of the white house is a manifestation of the fact that there are people who have been hired that are sadly not loyal to this president. >> is the suggestion that you're making that reince priebus is not loyal to the president? that the chief of staff is disloyal to the president? >> the inference would be some of the people he has hired maybe in that position -- we see a leak in "the washington post" that the president is like a clueless child. that didn't come from steve bannon or kellyanne conway or stephen miller. that i assure you. >> as this plays out, do you expect more parting of the ways between key players and

the president? >> i think you might have some shakeout of the staff, but there are some exceptional people there, as well. >> is it healthy for the administration to be filled with, as you're suggesting, yes men, people that will not challenge president trump? >> i don't think that's the question at all. i think it's healthier to have people who share the president's vision of where he wants to take the country. >> roger stone. roger, thank you very much. >> thank you. the president is making headlines for the high-stakes meeting with benjamin netanyahu. this was an early test of a pledge to strengthen the relationship between the two nations. chief correspondent andrea mitchell is here with more on that. andrea, good morning. >> reporter: good morning to you. and the president is reshaping u.s. policy towards israel. he's supremely confident he can accomplish what has eluded eight presidents for decades, achieving comprehensive middle east peace. in style and substance, president trump charting a new course in america's relationship with israel. >> bibi and i have known each

other a long time. a smart man, a great negotiator. >> reporter: the chemistry between the leaders, a sharp contrast to netanyahu's frosty relationship with barack obama. >> our lines have been remarkably strong. but under your leadership, i'm confident it will get even stronger. >> reporter: in a sharp break with his predecessors, the new president backing away from four decades of bipartisan u.s. support for a palestinian state. the two-state solution. >> i'm looking at two-state and one-state. and i like the one that both parties like. i'm very happy with the one that both parties like. i can live with either one. >> reporter: but then, dropping a bombshell on netanyahu, with this unscripted request. >> as far as settlements, i'd like to see you hold back on settlements for a little bit. we'll work something out. but i would like to see a deal be made. >> reporter: the prime minister late wednesday, making no promises. >> i think we'll try to find a

common understanding that is consistent with the pursuit of peace and security. >> all this being negotiated by as new president, all but home alone. the secretary of state in germany. the secretary of defense at nato. the security council rudderless, after mike flynn's ouster as national security adviser. senator john mccain telling nbc news, he doesn't know who is in charge of foreign policy. >> who is making the decisions in the white house? is it the 31-year-old? is it mr. bannon? is it the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff? i don't know. >> reporter: the 31-year-old comment, reference to stephen miller. another unconventional move, mr. trump's reliance on his son-in-law, jared kushner. and a response when an israeli reporter asked about the rise of anti-semitism in the u.s. since the campaign. >> we're very honored by the victory that we had. 306 electoral college votes.

we were not supposed to crack 220. you know that, right? >> reporter: mr. trump did not condemn the incidents, but said he would stop racism. and pointing to his daughter, ivanka, a convert to judaism. >> as far as jewish people, so many friends. a daughter, who happens to be here right now. a son-in-law. and three beautiful grandchildren. >> reporter: all this, with the president's national security council in disarray. and many top jobs unfilled. experts say that could lead to real trouble for the administration if there is a crisis, leaving the white house unable to respond quickly and effectively. hallie and matt. >> it's quite a time. >> a lot going on. >> andrea, good to see you. thanks very much. on capitol hill, the fight over gun control is back in the spotlight, after the senate voted to repeal a rule crafted in the wake of the sandy hook elementary school shooting. nbc's kasie hunt has that story.

good morning to you, kasie. >> reporter: good morning, matt. it's one of the most decisive topics in america and this morning, gun rights is celebrating the rollback of a law that would check a data base for gun sales. with the republicans firmly in control of congress, it could be just the beginning. in the first month of the trump presidency, the gop turning their focus to gun control. >> joint resolution is passed. >> reporter: the republican senate voting 57-43, to roll back a gun regulation, designed to make it harder for people with mental disorders from buying a firearm. the rule was written after the sandy hook massacre in newtown, connecticut, where 20 first graders were among those murdered by a mentally disturbed man. the regulation took years to write and was finalized in december. it would have added people who get social security benefits for mental impairment and deemed unfit to the national background check database. about 75,000 names. republicans say that would have

violated the second amendment rights. >> repealing this regulation will merely ensure that disabled citizens, second amendment rights are protected. >> reporter: but the brady campaign to prevent gun violence cal it heartless. democratic senator chris murphy's constituents include new town parents. >> this is morally offensive to people in connecticut. frankly to anyone who has lived through these tragedies. >> reporter: today, on the way to the white house, for president trump's signature. >> we're going to protect our second amendment, which is under siege. >> reporter: making good on a campaign promise. and with republicans in charge -- ushering in a new era for gun rights advocates in washington, after president obama spent years trying to convince congress to pass stricter gun laws. >> every time i think about those kids, it gets me mad. >> reporter: after tearful, s emotional pleas, congress didn't act. now, murphy fears even more setbacks. >> i think this is the first step. and now, the only thing that

congress has done on guns since sandy hook, is make it easier for mentally ill people to get guns. >> reporter: it wasn't just the national rifle association. and gun rights groups who oppose this. the american civil liberties union argued that it would infringe on the rights of mentally disabled people and contribute to stereotypes that mentally disabled people are violent. matt, hallie. >> kasie, thank you very much. happening today, you might find some of your favorite businesses are closed. organizers in cities across the u.s., are telling immigrants to stay home from work and school and not to visit shops and restaurants. they're calling it a day without immigrants. and it's supposed to show how critical they are to the u.s. economy and the country's way of life. the strikes all day long are planned in new york, philadelphia and washington, in response to president trump's immigration policies. want to show you incredible video of a substation explosion left about 10,000 residents in

washington state without power. video shows a ball of flames and thick, black smoke, shooting up into the sky. this happened last night in the city of ephrata. the fire spread to nearby buildings. thankfully no one was hurt. the exact cause of that explosion is unknown. >> looks like something out of a movie. >> it really does. mr. roker joins us. more rain for the people of california. >> that's right. a five-year drought. and then, the wettest year on record. for our friends in california, flood watch, 24 million people as this first system comes on in, bringing rain from seattle, all the way down to san francisco. then, another round will come in. this shift -- this rain shifts across california. isolated flooding over saturated ground. tomorrow although rainband comes in, all the way down into southern california. that's where we've got a real flood risk. first of all, northern california, one to three inches in the foothills. 3 to 5 inches in higher elevations, but look what happens when we move

further south. southern california, 2 to 6 inches of rain by sunday, could be upwards of 10 inches as you get into the mountains to the the north and east of los angeles. so, that is going to be a very dangerous situation. we'll be watching all weekend. we're going to get to your local forecast coming up in the next 30 seconds. it is 7:18. a live look at the radar. we see a couple of spotty light showers. some of the heaviest moved through a couple hours ago fpt

another storm system moving in tomorrow. lingering to early saturday. saturday afternoon a break in the showers before a third system arrives between late sunday night and monday. a couple of more waves of rain in the forecast before it all clears out next wednesday. then we get a period of dry weather. your latest weather. matt? >> al, thank you very much. coming up, kim jong-un surfaces for the first time since that bizarre murder of his half-brother, as new arrests are made in that case overnight. and a potential game-changer. the groundbreaking research that could help doctors and families connect autism earlier than ever before. first, this is "today" on nbc. [crying] ahhhhhhhhhh! the price you see is the price you pay, unlike cable.

[crying] ahhhhhhhhhh! the price you see is the price you pay, unlike cable. coming up, the ultimate reality tv. your first look at "planet earth 2." and how they managed to capture

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for a cleaner mouth everyone can love. ask your vet about oravet chews. serious oral care made simple we're in aicroclimateeather aleran a very good thursday morning to you. 7:26. i'm laura garcia-cannon. the weather making conditions extra difficult on that i 17 where there has been a lot of recent mudslide. that's where we find today in the bay bob redell. how is it looking, bob? >> laura, rain is the last thing anyone need in the santa cruz mountains. you can see behind me the mudslide. this is from two tuesdays ago. it is still covering highway 17 at scotts valley. this is something caltrans has been trying to work on. with the new storms moving in, there is concerns not about that mudslides but other mudslides especially the smaller mountain roads we have been through the past week where we have seen

small to moderate mudslides. i would say just about 10 mudslides last week alone. if you are commuting from santa cruz to the silicon valley, scotts valley is shut down a couple of exits between now and 10:00 a.m. to stop traffic from going into that town. all right. let's check the microclimate weather forecast. >> we are seeing lingering light showers moving through parts of the bay area. the heavier rain was earlier this morning. still wet roads. an impact on your commute as you head out the door. some of the showers moving through the east bay, lafayette to hayward. we will start to see conditions improving as we go through the day. still conditions on the roadways, mike. >> 880 past the oakland coliseum jammed because of an overturned rig. quite a distraction.

580 getting jammed up as well. all avenues to the bay bridge. oakland jam up there.

♪ 7:30 now on 7:30 now on a thursday morning. it's the 16th of february, 2017. there's a pretty shot for you, hallie jackson. >> love that. >> that is looking south from the top of the rock in the empire state building in the foreground. 1 world trade center in the background on a nice morning here in new york. we're going to go outside and check out our crowd in just a couple of minutes. meanwhile, hallie jackson is here while savannah continues on maternity leave. a quick check off our headlines, this morning, president trump is slamming the "new york times" for that report that members of his campaign had contacts with russian officials during the election. in a series of tweets, the president called on the newspaper to apologize and promises to catch the people who

he calls low-life leakers. here is a disturbing story. new data shows a dramatic increase in the number of americans killed in traffic accidents. more than 40,000 in 2016. that is up 14% from 2014. and it's the biggest two-year jump in more than half a century. the national safety council is now calling for major changes to state and federal laws, including a ban of all cell phone use for drivers and mandatory seat belts for every passenger. did you hear about this one, that american airlines flight out of charlotte, it had to head back to the airport after hit ago deer during takeoff. officials say the plane was leaking fuel after that collision. 44 passengers were on the flight. luckily, no injuries were reported. meantime, there have been new arrests connected that bizarre murder of the half brother of north korea's leader, kim jong un. kier simmons has the latest on this for us. >> good morning. assassination is like something

from a spy novel. a third arrest overnight. police say this is a man who they believe to be the boyfriend of one of two women arrested. meanwhile, police confirming to nbc news, they suspect a woman scene at the airport wearing a distinctive shirt. wearing a shirt plentied with l-o-l, an alleged female assassin. the taken from surveillance footage in moments surrounding the murder at a malaysian airport. many believe kim jonk nam was killed in a hit by north korean spies. now two women are under arrest. their connection to the case, still fought clear. a third arrest, a man announced this morning. north korea's leader looking grim faced overnight attending an event marking his late father's birthday. uncorroborated theories swirling that jim jong union ordered the killing of his half brother over

a family feud and wild speculation about the two women arrested. >> there are certain things we know so far about this case that are a bit strange. it would appear that the two women who have been arrested were maybe what are called cut outs. they didn't actually know what they were doing. >> kim jong nam arrived at the airport around 9:00 a.m. for a flight reportedly around 10:00. according to reports, two women ambushed him as he approached a self-service check-in desk. how they allegedly poisoned him is unclear. a toxic spray, a lethal injection or other accounts say the poison was adminstered through a cloth placed across his takes. nam went to a desk asking for help. around 30 minutes later, he was dead according to reports in local media. kim jong nam feared that orders to kill him would be sent across the river there in north korea. he's said to have pleaded for his brother to spare his life.

now police searching for four others, all local men, while a forensic examination of kim jong nam is under way. now the malaysian deputy prime minister says the body may be sent back to north korea, to the very country that may have ordered the execution. and the police tell nbc news that the two women who have been arrested have been remanded in custody for seven days. just a caution, though, not all experts believe this assassination is connected to north korea. effectively, it's still a mystery, guys. >> can i er simmons on the story. thanks so much. also this morning, we have new ground breaking research to tell you about. a new study shows it's possible to predict the risk of autism in some children much earlier than once thought. here is gabe gutierrez. this morning, doctors have found a way to take some of the mystery out of autism with, detected the disorder earlier than ever before. >> i think it gives a lot of hope. >> a new study published in the journal nature finds it may be possible to predict autism within the first year of a child's life.

usually that diagnosis doesn't come until much later, between the ages of 2 and 4. >> if we're able to detect it based on early brain development, then we can begin interventions earlier to improve the long-term outcome of these children. >> researchers like dr. kelly botteram of washington university in st. louis performed mri brain scans on babies with older siblings with autism. in some, they noticed bigger brains. with ta clue, they were able to predict 80% of the babies who would later be diagnosed with autism. they also predicted which infants would not develop the disorder. but experts say more research is needed. >> this is an initial study, a relatively small number of children were studied with this work. it needs be repeated with a larger set of children. >> what is the most callinging thing about being a parent of children with autism? >> looking around and seeing other families and seeing what they can do and what you can't do. >> what other letters are on there? >> carrie keller has four boys.

her oldest son was diagnosed with autism when he was 2. >> it was heartbreaking, for sure. >> that meant his brothers were at a higher risk for the disorder. we are watching every move they make. so it was a tough go for the first couple of years of their lives, for sure. >> keller's young efts son, patti, was a part of the new study which found no signs of autism in his brain. she says the research could now be a life changer. >> i wish a study like this could have come out 15 years ago and just to think how much further we would have been with our own son. for "today," gabe gutierrez, nbc news, los angeles. there are so many people working so hard to try and understand autism. perhaps this is a step in the right direction. >> think of the therapy you can do that you couldn't years ago. we've got cool weather here in the northeast, but that's going to be changing. we've got some more spring-like temperatures making their way east from the mid section of the country. minneapolis, you're going to be 20 degrees above average today. st. louis, look at that.

65. that's 26 degrees above average. jackson, 8 degrees above average. washington right now, a little below average, but that changes as we head into friday. boston, raleigh, savannah, all well above average. as you look at this weekend, man, new york city, 62 degrees on sunday. 72 in atlanta. 78 in tampa and dallas, you'll see a high of 78 degrees. break out the bermuda shorts, good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. our microclimate weather alert continues after early morning rain still affecting the morning commute. a live look at san jose. wayne in the distance from this camera. we are still seeing spotty light showers. we will see this activity tap tapering off through the day. a lot of this rolling off to the east with breaks in the clouds and even a bit of sunshine later today. it will still be a mild take. the rain returns early tomorrow

morning with more heavy downpours and gusty winds. >> get that weather anytime you need it. check out our pals at the weather channel on cable. >> al, thank you very much. coming up, never-before-seen pictures of marilyn had a bad back injury, my doctor prescribed opioids which helped with the chronic pain, but backed me up big-time. tried prunes, laxatives, still constipated... had to talk to my doctor. she said, "how long you been holding this in?" (laughs) that was my movantik moment. my doctor told me that movantik is specifically designed for oic and can help you go more often. don't take movantik if you have a bowel blockage

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yet, the more we travel, the more the world pushes back, coralling us and controlling us. so, we seek a place where we're given a choice... ...not just to get up, but to rise. ♪ 7:42 on a thursday morning. we're back. you know, it's been about ten years since the bbc's award-winning series, "planet earth." now, the wait for the second installment is almost over. >> it debuts this weekend, promising an unprecedented look at the world from the viewpoint of animals themselves. nbc's joe fryer has your sneak peek. >> reporter: in a world obsessed

with reality tv, perhaps no true-life stories are drama than those found in nature. >> science is everything. >> reporter: like two komodo dragons fighting over a mate. >> muscular tails like hammers. >> reporter: or iguana hatchlings, chased by hunter snakes. it's more traumatic than a car chase in a movie? >> the natural drama, you couldn't script that. >> reporter: thiz they've are part of the team that spent 3 1/2 years working on "planet earth ii." the documentary on bbc america, and comes a decade after the original show shocked viewers. what's the biggest difference? >> we're trying to put you into

the animal's world. >> reporter: the filmmakers say over the last ten years, technology has blossomed. using small cameras, they can get surprisingly close. using drones that can uncover new angles from above. still this, project was far from easy. one crew sailed on a small boat to reach a remote island home to the chin strap penguins. the six-week expedition filled with incredible moments, and water so turbulent, escape was not easy. white produced the first episode about islands. the other settings were jungles, deserts, grasslands, cities and mountains, where remote cameras captured rare video of snow leopards. it also shows the fragility of the changing world and the challenges for species. all cold through the voice of

david attenborough, who serves as narrator. >> it's impossible not to be impressed by the grandeur and slender and power. >> reporter: millions have watched in the united kingdom where the series aired late last year. now, "planet earth ii" comes to america, a reality show about the place we all call home. for "today", joe fryer, nbc news, los angeles. >> that is must-see television in my house. >> i know what my plans are this weekend. >> it's not only just visibly stunning. you take it in to understand a little better. >> that's amazing. >> "planet earth ii" saturday night, on bbc america. coming up, talking about washington's newest and maybe its strangest pro ♪

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a couple weeks ago, we told you about a super bowl bet involving a pro tennis player. carson in the orange room. >> genie brouchard. she puts out a tweet saying, i knew atlanta would win. a 20-year-old student out of the university of missouri. his name is john duringy. he says, if the patriots win, we go on a date? she writes back, sure. the patriots made the greatest comeback in super bowl history.

they beat the falcons. after the game, she writes, lesson learned, never bet against tom brady. and she kept her word. she buys the kid a flight, so they can attend the brooklyn nets on saturday night. they look like a couple. the perfect pair. if there's any question about this young man's legendary status, on that same day, this young lady clinches the ability to be in "s.i.'s" magazine, the swimsuit edition. did he behave well enough to earn himself a second date? >> ah. >> i knew you were going to say that. what did she say? >> i don't know. but that's some jacket she wore. >> yeah. >> you see that thing? it was chilly back east. but that's a jacket. we're going to keep our eyes on this story. >> i love when you follow stories to their completion. >> i'll have a wrap-up on friday. >> journalism.

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traffic tora good thursday morning. 7:56. getting a little bit of clearing after a round of heavier rain. still lingering light showers especially for the north bay for much of marin county extending to the east bay. a closer look to san ramon, hayward. light rain moving through. that will end quickly. and the peninsula getting in on wet weather that will be winding down. as we two through the forecast, several rounds of rain moving in. we will take a break this afternoon. temperatures cooler than yesterday. reaching 59 in san francisco. and then seeing another round of rain for tomorrow. ending early on saturday. and then it gets wet again early on sunday into monday. going to see several waves of rain in the forecast. so get ready for some very stormy days ahead. as we head over to mike, let's

see how the road conditions are looking. >> conditions a little dry. not quite as slick. be careful out there. smooth drive except for oakland. 880 and 580 jammed toward the bay bridge. looking at travel times, over two hours from 238 to the bay bridge. look at the backup. by the coliseum. north of here we still have the overturned rig blocking the slow lane. that is quite a distraction. one lane blocked. a big problem for the morning commute. 580 as well. that's a change from the typical morning. watch fort larger vehicles and slowing. >> happening now, the skies around the bay area are clearing for the time being. you can stay current with the next round of round coming up on the bay area app. heavy surf pounding all morning. the very latest on the home page. another local update in half an

hour. have a great morning.

♪ it's 8:00 on "today." coming up, white house turmoil. less than 48 hours after dropping his national security adviser, the president says this. >> general flynn is a wonderful man. >> blaming the media for his failure. >> i think he's been treated very, very unfairly by the media. as i call it, the fake media. >> as congress asks for an investigation into possible intelligence leaks, we're live at the white house. plus, mvp. our most valuable puppy. >> good, good, good. >> charlie steals the show at his first basketball game, taking center court, enjoying the action and even making some

new friends. >> hi, charlie. >> he's learning how to be a service dog for a veteran. ♪ roxanne and behind the scenes with sting. >> for me, the most important element in any music is surprise. and so, a lot of people think, wow. we didn't expect that. >> natalie catches up with the music legend to talk about his 17th album, getting back to his roots, and the secret to his success. today, thursday, february 16th, 2017. 8:00 on this thursday morning, 16th day of february, 2017. hallie jackson joining us this morning, while savannah continues on maternity leave. you made it through the first hour. >> sadly, without a cool hat and feather boas. >> these ladies will share. no question about it. sting, i'm looking forward to natalie's conversation with sting. we love him.

♪ roxanne >> i'm looking forward to the jill martin segment. pamper herself, yes, please. i'm looking forward to looking at why brownies are so yesterday. >> you look at these things. >> that elizabeth. >> we're going to get to all that. first, look at the headlines. here's your news at 8:00. >> i'm kristen welker at the white house. there's growing calls for reviews into security adviser, michael flynn. the inspector general is being asked to investigate the leaks that led to flynn's ouster. president trump suggests that others are responsible for flynn's downfall. overnight, a bipartisan call for action, following the resignation of michael flynn. senate judiciary committee leaders writing a letter to the

attorney general, and the fbi director, asking for a briefing on the matter. and seeking transcripts of flynn's intercepted calls with russia. president trump taking a different tact. >> general flynn is a wonderful man. >> reporter: defiantly saying it's the media's fault flynn resigned as national security adviser. >> i think he's been treated very, very unfairly by the media, as i call it, the fake media. >> reporter: the stunning remarks are the mr. trump has made since flynn's resignation, over revelations he misled the president, the vice president and others on discussing sanctions with the russian ambassador in december. >> the president is flirting with danger. >> reporter: and the campaign hacks with russia are hanging over the white house. >> if there are contacts between white house officials and russian officials, that is a big deal. >> reporter: a senior u.s. official says fbi investigators have determined that some trump campaign aides and business

associates were in contact with russians during the campaign. but current and former officials tell nbc news, there's no evidence of collusion between the campaign and russia to interfere in the election. on wednesday, during a joint press conference, with israeli prime minister benjamin netanyahu, president trump ignored questions about russia. but mr. trump played up what appeared to be warming relations with israel. >> i think we're going to make a deal. >> reporter: the meeting marked by melania trump's first appearance as first lady since the inauguration. after four decades of bipartisan support for a palestinian state side-by-side with israel, known as the two-state solution, mr. trump saying he is open to a one-state option. >> i'm looking at two-state and one-state. and i like the one that both parties like. >> reporter: but this morning, the young trump administration suffered yet another blow.

labor secretary pick andy puzder withdrawing his nomination, after politico obtained footage where puzder's ex-wife described allegations of domestic abuse. >> he vowed revenge. he said, i will see you in the gutter. this will never be over. you will pay for this. >> reporter: puzder has denied allegations made in the tape. they came during a heated divorce. and his ex-wife has recanted. as for the flynn controversy, the president is again today blaming leaks. tweeting, leaking and illegal classified leaking has been a big problem in washington for years. failing "new york times" and others must apologize. and so, it continues. matt? >> all right, kristen welker. thanks very much. going to give you the latest on the oroville dam crisis in northern california. many forced to evacuate homes have returned. but some are staying only long enough to pack up the valuables and other belongings. officials say the immediate

crisis is over. but they are concerned about new storms in that area and whether emergency repairs to the dam will hold up. yahoo! is sending out warnings that hackers may have gotten into their accounts between 2015 and 2016. this hacker was so sophisticated, the intruders did not need passwords. yahoo! is not saying how many are affected. but it tied the breach to theft of earlier data of 1 million accounts. yahoo! is in talks to sell its corp operation to verizon. jailhouse cameras captured a brawl between two deputies. the men got into a dispute over the handling of personal property. the argument escalated into a fistfight. other officers broke it up. but after a couple minutes of calm, the fight erupted again. one of the deputies was charged with assault and resisting arrest. a press release from that jail says sometimes bad decisions and

anger cause people to make the wrong choice. an understatement. up next, are you a walking smartphone zombie? there's a new invention that might keep you safe. and never-before-seen pictures of marilyn monroe. you think she's pregnant in these photos? that's the question. and this morning, talk show titan maury povich is here. we'll talk to him. first, these messages. ♪ your allergy pills? break through your allergies. introducing flonase sensimist. more complete allergy relief in a gentle mist you may not even notice. using unique mistpro technology, new flonase sensimist delivers a gentle mist to help block six key inflammatory substances that cause your symptoms. most allergy pills only block one. and six is greater than one. break through your allergies. new flonase sensimist. ♪

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how did it become absent-mindedly to snacking? eating one after the next? we are a creamy cheese that still believes in savoring our food. the laughing cow. reinvent snacking. i had a wonderful time tonight. me too! call me tomorrow? i'm gonna send a vague text in a couple of days, that leaves you confused about my level of interest. i'll wait a full two days before responding. perfect! we're never gonna see each other again, will we? no-no. 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. we're back, now. 8:10. first time we're trending with hallie jackson. are you ready for this? >> so ready. >> who has been through a

traumatic breakup? >> everybody at some point. >> feeling down and out. and some friend comes up, and says, what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, right? >> it's hard to believe at the time. >> a new study has found that short trauma or stress does help your body create stronger cells that are better for stressful situations down the road. they equate this for weight lifting, where you lift and you break down muscle fibers that heal even stronger. after a breakup, after stress, are you stronger the next time? >> you don't want to hear it then. timing is everything. you listen to kelly clarkson. it's still fresh. >> and what's short? >> four years later, you're stronger. >> are you stronger or just like carson where you build emotional walls around yourself? >> i don't think -- >> that's what matt lauer will do. here's one for all of you. carson, this is good for you. looking at your phones. you don't have time to look up.

check out what this town in the netherlands is doing. they're glowing strips on the ground, that tell you cross the road or hold off for the zombie people that are staring at the phones. some lawmakers says doesn't that reward bad behavior? it's enabling people to stop paying attention. >> if it stops you at the intersection. >> if you're so engrossed are you going to notice those? >> it will catch your eye. how many times have you been in your car and someone comes off of the curb. less than a year from the winter olympics. japan, in preparation for the 2020 olympic games. today marks the start of the country's electronics recycling program. the medals taken from the donated cell phones and cameras, you know what they will be used for? they will make the olympic medals. and athletes will be receiving. to make 5,000 medals about 8 tons of metal will be required.

a cool way to get the whole country involved in the games. >> athletes on the podium -- i got a call coming in. >> can you hear me now? spring cleaning is coming in. check your pockets before you donate things. a woman in california, giving a pile of old clothes to a collection city, including her husband's bright orange shirt. she was getting rid of it. he had $8,000 in cash hidden in the shirt pocket. why? he had been stashing the money for, he says, a surprise trip to italy with his wife. they ran back to goodwill. looked for the shirt. luckily for them, some good samaritans had it, got the cash. >> great cover story. >> they were all in 1s. >> and they were not sequential. why is it the guys have a different view of that story? >> speaking of love, let me get

to "pop start." >> i'm going to go now. this train has to move forward, mr. lauer. you remember "love actually"? the film described the total agony of young love. have a look. >> the truth is, actually, i'm in love. >> sorry? >> i know i should be thinking about mom all the time. and i am. but the truth is, i'm in love. there's nothing i can do about it. >> aren't you young to be in love? >> no. >> oh. okay. >> well, it's the moment so many people are waiting for. "love actually" is getting a sequel. not exactly as you imagine. as part of this year's charity event, richard curtis is getting the old cast back together for a ten-minute sequel. curtis saying, it will be fun to see what the characters are up to 14 years later. who will be there? liam neeson, thomas brody, hugh

grant, andrew lincoln, colin firth, and bill atkinnison. >> i love that movie. i don't know what they're doing 14 years later. i want to let it be as it ended. sequels have a way of tainting the original. but it's for a good cause. and for ten minutes. never-before-seen footage. photos, actually, of marilyn monroe. and they show the star with a baby bump. they allegedly show monroe's secret pregnancy. the long lost photos taken by a woman in the monroe six, a fan club. the baby's father was yves montad, sense the secrecy of the pregnancy. the images were sold last year as part of the photographer's estate. and probably the least likely bromance ever.

john mccain and ashton kutcher. he was on capitol hill to talk about human trafficking, when senator mccain lightened things up with a joke. i want to thank ashton. ashton, you are better looking in the movies. anyway -- >> little kiss there blown to the senator. mccain saying he was not only loves what ashton is doing outside of hollywood, but does indeed enjoy his movies. there's your "pop start" today. >> a smart guy, ashton. mr. roker? >> let's show you what we got going on. a little lake-effect snow. and some remnant snow hanging around northern new england. but really, other than the last couple of snowstorms, things have been light over the last winter season, as far as snow days. an inch or more. boston averages 11 of those. seven in new york. philly, 6. washington, 5. and boston coming the closest with eight of them. you get into the midwest, where it's snowy normally. detroit averaging 13 days in the

season. chicago, 11. st. louis averages six. they've had none. nine in indianapolis. and chicago looking at 11 days of one inch or more. today, mild afternoons throughout the plains. heavy rain and mountain snow moves into the pacific northwest and northern california. windy and chillier here in the northeas good morning. i meant meteorologist kari hall. heavy rain moves through this morning. still light showers left behind and a mix of sun and clouds. then we get clearing later on today, a chance to dry out before the next round of rain moves in early tomorrow morning. we will see a couple of waves of this. some wet weather as we go throughout the next several days. temperatures hold steady in an fran. inland areas cooler. >> don't forget, check us out on "today" siriusxm.

and tomorrow, the don and mazz show. it's at 2:00. time stands still at 2:00. that's right. al, thank you very much. day four of our "where are they now talk show titans." maury povich, you know him well, he's been interviewing guests for 26 years. and with 4,500 shows under his belt, he's going strong. >> let's talk about his appetite. >> reporter: maury povich and his tabloid tv guests have been a controversial staple on daytime television since 1991. >> they aren't fooling anyone. >> this is what's going in. >> reporter: husband to connie chung, povich was a news anchor in the '80s. later hosting "a current affair," before landing his own daytime tv talk show. >> i'm ready for the long haul. >> reporter: early episodes, featuring quintuplets and celebrities, were replaced with

provocative guests and paternity tests. >> in the case of 3-month-old aaron, bill, you are not the weather. >> what? >> reporter: hundreds of big reveals later, maury remains a daytime tv titan. 26 seasons and counting. maury povich, good morning to you. a trip down memory lane. >> my wife is going to be amazingly wonderfully accepting of you as interviewing me because she loves you so much. >> that's a sweet note to start off on. i want to talk about your history here. you've been doing this for a long time. 50 years. you started in local news. why did you shift into the paternity tests? >> i think anybody -- i always felt constricted doing news. if you're reporting, you only have 1:30. if you're anchoring, you introduce the particular piece. i wanted to do more. i'm a story teller. everybody in your business is a

story teller. we feel constrained when we have to give it up after 1:30. so, i can now tell stories for ever and get these results. and everything is done within 12 or 15 minutes. and it's perfect. >> you talk about results. obviously, results of paternity tests has been one of the staples of your show. >> yes. >> you're doing it now? >> yes. >> are you sick of it yet? maybe i'll get away of this thing going? >> i don't think so. i think every story has its unique quality. and so, when i do these paternity tests, everybody goes through their own stuff. and so, therefore, i can tell these stories. and each story has its own moments. and the best part about it is there's a beginning, there's a middle, there's conflict, there's drama and there's a result. >> plenty of conflict. plenty of drama. you've been doing this for decades. you're number one syndicated talk show. >> the people who write your bay checks own my show. >> do you find the most

outrageous the guests get, the better the rating? >> the dna testing, the lie detectors, those are signature shows. and months like this, sweeps month, those are the themes that work. >> if we logon to your site, you have casting calls out for people who are serial cheaters, grandmothers who dress too sexy for their age, people wanting to confront a family member about their drinking. are these people legitimate? or in the age of reality tv, do you think folks are signing up and telling stories to get on your air? >> i think my people are tame next to the people you cover every day. think about that. we could bring out lie detector tests for the people you have to cover every day. >> what's the craziest moment on your show? >> probably the most surprising moment was when, i'm doing a dna test. this woman is accusing a guy of being father of her twins. and i never know the answer, the result, until i open up the envelope. >> and that's intentional, right? >> i never -- the first time i

did it, i said, i don't want to know. i open up the envelope. and he's the father of one but not the other. and that was impossible to me at the time. until my staff told me that with fraternal twins, you can have two fathers, it's a million to one shot. it's happened twice on my show. >> whose reaction is more stunned when that happens? yours or the father's? >> everybody who saw that moment was absolutely startled. >> you have said the older you get, the younger your audience gets, you think? >> yeah. it's crazy. the researchers, i'll tell you. one political researcher, frank luntz. >> pollster. >> came up to me and said, he uses my show as an introduction to his focus groups on how people can change their minds after they see a particular

segment. how is that? >> in what way? >> he thinks the way i interview my guests, the way i talk to my guests, that all of a sudden, there's a lot of conflict, and in the end, there is some kind of sympathy. and he wants to know if that's possible with political candidates. >> you mentioned at the top. this is my first show here. you've done 5,000 of them in your time. how do you keep it exciting, maury? how do you not get board? you're talking about things that are full of conflict, you've been doing it again and again. >> if you have the energy, if you have the curiosity, if you want to -- just like anybody running for political office, you knock on a door, you want them to open it up, you want them to welcome you into their homes, sit down on the couch, have dinner with them. and that's the key to any host. >> full of energy, thank you so much for being here. really appreciate it. tell your wife we said hello. >> connie will be so excited. >> we'll wrap up our series with

giraldo rivera. just ahead, we have a new "steals and deals." not giving away bas i'm ...

==tff== a microclimateather alert and a li look adowntown san and good thursday morning we are in the middle of a microclimate weather alert this morning as we take a look at downtown san jose. mostly drying out at this point from a wet and windy morning. heavyiest rain has moved through the area but another storm is on tap. kari hall is monitoring the next round of rain. >> we will see that rain moving in. still lingering light showers for the north bay and parts of the peninsula. we are getting sunshine helping to dry out some of those wet roads that were just saturated earlier this morning. we are looking at highs reaching 62 degrees in the peninsula. 59 degrees in san francisco. the cold front has moved on through and we will continue to see drying conditions for the

afternoon. the next storm system set to arrive early tomorrow morning. let's get a look at the roads now with mike. >> we have this jam still for 880. as you look at your map it is jammed solid where we have two right lanes blocked. west 580 -- 880 -- the south bay has slowing. a crash southbound looks like it may be clearing soon from 17. >> you will need a lot of patience. we'll see you again with more news 30i7b minutes.

♪ roxanne back, now, 8:30 on this thursday morning. it is february 16th, 2017. the sun is shining brightly here in rockefeller plaza. you remember cutler hall of ohio university. named after you? >> great, great, great grandfather founded o.u. nice to see you. we have hallie jackson while savannah continues on maternity leave. charlie is here. charlie had a big night recently. >> not just for fun, too. went to a basketball game in brooklyn. we'll tell you about it later. part of his puppy with a purpose

training. >> ongoing training. >> and did you hear music coming in? sting. one of his biggest fans is natalie morales, talking about his legendary career, his secret to his hits and why he's getting back to his rock roots. >> big fan. also, jill martin is here with "steals and deals." and speaking of treats, making brownies in two ways. >> these are going to ruin your diet. let's get a check of the weather from al. >> all right. let's see what we have for you, starting with today. we're looking at for the weekend outlook, flooding rains throughout much of california. record highs in the central plains. beautiful weather along the eastern seaboard. some showers through the gulf. saturday, record highs continuing around the ohio river valley. heavy rain in the southwest. snow in the pacific northwest. and sunny skies on the east coast. sunday, thunderstorms, in texas, the rockies, the cascades.

and the bitter highs in the river we're getting a chance to dry out after early morning rain across much of the bay area. here is a live look outside and the roads are still wet in spots once again getting much more dry condition compared to earlier this morning when a wave of heavy rain moves through. as we go into the rest of the afternoon expect a mix of sun and clouds. another chance of rain and hev down pours. in san francisco we will see rain throughout the weekend and it continues into early next week. >> that's your latest weather. get your weekend weather you need. check out the weather channel on cable. guys? "today's" music pro file is created with citi, which launched citi sound vault, a new music platform for card members.

visit citi private pass.com to learn more. gordon sumner left home with $5 to his name, and a couple of really good songs. >> a couple. >> 40 years later, the world knows him as sting. one of the most successful stars in music history. >> natalie was lucky enough to catch up with him. natalie, good morning. >> hey, guys. good morning. this was a bucket list for me because i'm a huge sting fan. we met sting at a citi sound vault concert, at the hollywood palladium. and he moved, when it comes to being a rock star, age is just a number. sometimes the best way to complete a journey is to simply go back to the beginning. ♪ you don't want to see me again ♪ >> reporter: and with the release of his 17th album, "57th and 9th" sting is doing just that. commemorating the album by embarking on a world tour. playing intimate settings, like

this citi sound vault show. you're doing intimate rock tours. what is it like now? >> i'm playing a lot of the venues i played at the beginning of my career. and i have more vivid memories of those clubs and dance halls than i do of, you know, sports spa stadiums, or arenas. but the club, like the palladium, has a specific and vivid memory for me. >> reporter: this new album, you're back to your rock roots. >> i don't think i ever went away from rock 'n' roll. i sing and play rock 'n' roll every night in my working life. i agree, for the last ten years, i've been making more esoteric music. >> reporter: what's the secret?

>> we like each other. >> reporter: yeah? >> we love each other. when she comes into a room, the room lights up for me. >> reporter: she is a constant, as musically, sting continues to change his tune. >> for me, the most important element in any music is surprise. and so, a lot of people think, wow. didn't expect that. so, already, for me, that's a success. >> reporter: surprise. what is the surprise? a new sound? >> within the songs, if you look carefully, there's subtle messages. >> reporter: messaging about climate change, immigration, and mortali mortality. "50,000" you wrote that after prince passed away. we lost prince, david bowie, glenn frey. is this you looking at mortality? >> how can they die? they're immortal. and we're not. all of us are sadly mortal.

but the music will live forever. and it enriches your life if you say, i have a limited amount of time on the earth. and i'm going to make use of it, in a good way. >> reporter: perhaps the best example of this is sting's recently oscar-nominated song, "empty chair." a song inspired by jim foley, that he sang at the reopening of the bataclan in paris. you performed on the anniversary of the shootings, 130 people killed. >> i knew it would be a difficult to balance two separate things. one, respect for the survivors that were there. respect for some of the relat e relatives of the victims. and we need to reassert our right to play music and enjoy music and gather together in safety. >> you've done so much.

humanitarian, playwright, still producing album after album. what is next for you? >> keep doing it, is something that i want to maintain. but also, freedom. a freedom to make choices. ♪ every breath you take >> reporter: the freedom to savor every breath he takes. and ever so gracious with each performance, sting is all about giving his fans, like me, a night they will never forget. right. he said i was good. i got to say thanks to my editor, who is very careful about the sound that he used in my performance there. although, you guys have the goods. i know you do. >> i don't know if it's the editor or the sound man that didn't turn the mic on. >> i used to love that song. >> reporter: there's a lot of my mic in there. i saw more of that. >> did you hear what al said? he said, i used to love that song.

>> thank you, al. by the way, you can see more from my night with sting on our website. hopefully they with careful with their audio, as well, on today.com. guys, he was so generous and so lovely. >> and you were having a blast, natalie. that was fantastic. >> carson and i were talking, way up in the list of my favorite groups and performers. >> police, sting, yeah. >> so good. >> until that moment, maybe. they went from five to seven for me. kidding. up next, do you need a reason to treat yourself? don't miss the special "steals and deals" that jill has lined up. first, this is "today" on nbc. we're told to live large, but with princess cruises your most extraordinary moments happen when you feel small. when you're completely outnumbered,

overshadowed, and outshined. so what if you dared to explore this great big beautiful pond. what if you dared to feel small. celebrate our princess anniversary sale with award winning itineraries. 7 day fares from $799. visit your travel agent or princess.com. princess cruises. come back new.

we are back with an all-new "steals and deals." if you're looking to treat yourself -- who is not? -- you should enjoy this. >> jill martin brought us the

boutique shopping experience. complete with shopping bags on the floor here. good to see you. >> good to see you. so many times we have gifts for other people. but it's important to take care of yourself. starting with, nice to be comfy and cozy but in style. you get the shirt and the sweat pants on today.com. we have all of the different combinations. if you feel it, it's super soft. >> this will be my outfit tomorrow. >> celebrity fans are jessica biel, mila kunis and jessica simpson. >> would you wear that on a saturday, out to be errands and things? >> i do. and in style is showing it with heels. it's not my style. but everybody knows the trend right now. >> that's good savings. that's great. >> and if you need somebody to carry your stuff. >> careful of the shopping bag. it's a boutique. >> this is a satchel that can

double as a diaper bag or a travel bag. metallic is on-trend right now. and great as an accessory if you don't want to wear it with an outfit. travel bag and diaper bag. and very light, because women fill it. the retail is $510. and the deal is $89. that's 83% off. >> careful of the shopping bag. let's go on to jewelry. monogram-type jewelry. chains of different lengths. and colors, initials "a" to "z." >> that's an "h." these are circle monogram necklaces. they're gold plated. celebrity fans include carrie underwood, j. lo and kate hudson. you can wear your own initial, your child's initial, and layer

them. or your significant other's initial. the retail $130. the deal, $39 at 70% off. >> these are on-trend. >> they are great for guests because they pack flat. if you have friends with initials. >> let's go over there. the shopping bag heurdles. the wish beauty bundle. it comes in this can. great if you want to put a bow on it. or a bow to yourself. four products. you get the body butter, the shave cream and the sugar scrub. retail is $70. the deal is $17.50. that's 75% off. my mother has a book club. she splits them up to give one to each person. >> that's cute. >> if you split it up. >> makeup next? >> the last thing is the makeup sets that retail $50 to $75. it's a choice of seven kits. there's different version.

a lip set, an eye set, a bronzer set. all are explained on today.com. the retail $50 to $75. the deal, $15. that's up to 80% off. >> this would have been a great stocking stuffer in the holidays. it's the perfect thing far little sister. >> how often do women need to replace their makeup? does it go bad? >> i will put that online, actually. three to six months, depending on the makeup. if it uses a brush because you dip it in, it's three months. but i encourage you to wash your brushes with warm water and soap you have in the house. >> we have the sweat pants and shirt sets from nation ltd. handbags from anat marin. necklaces from nissa. the shish beauty bundle. and if you have questions, call jill at home. or go to our website, today.com. up next, a brownie bonanza.

how to turn one batter into a couple of delicious desserts. first, this is "today" on c. nb

♪ we're back, now, 8:47, with "today food." today, it's all about brownies. looking for a gooey treat, put away the box mix because elizabeth highskull has a delicious recipe to try. >> there's so many people running around, talking about less is more. less is more. not the case when it comes to brownies, honey. more is more. >> we're making red velvet first. and then, going to mississippi mud. >> vanilla. red food coloring. eggs, flour, all your basic ingredients. melted this in a microwave. >> just the chocolate? >> with the butter.

that's in there. we add our eggs. we want to do this one at a time. even though they've been cracked, and you can help me with this -- >> i'll pour? one at a time. mix that. and we add our sugar. >> just a touch of sugar. >> just a little bit. we'll continue to add our sugar. and then, we have our dry ingredients. >> okay. we have flour, baking powder and a little bit of salt. we will fold it in. we will fold this. and we will add our food coloring. >> you can take your time with that because you want to do this right. >> in the south, we love some food coloring. my grandmother, she used to dye punch at weddings to match the bridesmaids dresses. there's a reason we line this pan with foil. it will make it supersimple to get out. we'll spread that out. that will go into a 350-degree oven, for about 44 minutes.

>> and you make the icing. >> this is our cream cheese icing. we want to make sure that is very, very soft. just wait until it gets soft. i want you to add a little powders sugar to this. i know you don't like stuff on your suit. we need to go in -- go in slow or we'll have a big powders sugar mess. we'll add a little vanilla. a little bit of salt. >> i'm going to move you along. we know what is going to happen. you put it in that bag. >> grab it. let's get in touch with your softer side for a second. isn't that fun? i mean, really, is that not the best. >> let's look downstairs. how is that going? >> delicious. >> we're basically done. >> i could have red wine with this. >> how do you eat your brownie with a knife and fork. >> they're talking down there. complimenting you. >> basic brownie mix. we're going to add nuts to it. this is upsetting al. he has a thing about adding nuts

to his brownies. >> i do. >> it's my recipe. >> you have been warned, al. >> exactly. we have our foil-lined pan that will make it supersimple to get out. once it's cooked, we pull it out. we add our marshmallows and we go back in the oven and let it puff up a little bit. you'll see what i'm talking about. here are the marshmallows that are puffed. >> just the right amount of golden brown there. >> it's perfect. a few more nuts to the top. al is shuttering as we speak. that is our chocolate icing. you don't want to do too much. it can get a little messy. but there's no reason why we can't eat this brownie with a fork. that's beautiful. >> that's enough? >> no, no. come on, now. >> how do we like the mississippi mud brownies? >> it's gooey. it's stretching. >> isn't it wonderful?

>> like mozzarella cheese. >> anytime i can say mississippi in a brownie recipe. >> thank you so much. i'm going to dig into one of those. you can get the recipes at today.com/food. up in ex-what had our resident star charlie hitting the court at an nba game? first this, is "today" on nbc.

♪ 8:52. back with the newest add venture for our great friend and puppy, charlie. he's working hard to become an america's vet dog. >> and also a basketball star. this week, he took his training to a whole new level. >> on monday, charlie went from center stage here on studio 1a, to center court at an nba game. have a look. it was a big night for charlie. >> are you ready? want to go to your first game? >> our puppy with a purpose attended his first basketball game at the barclays center. the brooklyn nets versus the memphis grizzlies. and no surprise, charlie stole the show. >> charlie is a vet service dog from the "today" show. ♪ >> but our mvp was there for more than just the center court

spotlight. the big game was part of his training. >> go to the basketball game is allowing him to become more reliable in his skill set. he is doing it in a environment that is loud and exciting. we want him to feel comfortable doing that for his future. >> while he was there, he warmed up with the players. he navigated crowds with ease. >> push. >> opened doors. scaled the stadium stairs at a steady pace, and provided emotional support in a busy environment. >> good. >> once charlie aced his skills, it was time for some fun. >> hi, charlie. >> he's learning how to be a service dog for a veteran. >> moving once again that our puppy with a purpose, is nothing short of an all-star. >> and charlie is here this morning, all tired out from his big adventure. olivia is here, as well. how is he doing? >> he's doing amazing. everything he gets at the

"today" show is the perfect preparation for events like this. >> handled the crowds and everything. >> there's so much excitement and hustle that happens here at the "today" show, that it was the next logical step up in his training. >> the basketball game is probably a little louder than the noise on set. >> we make noise here, too, when we have the concerts and everything here. he had experience. it was a nice steppingstone in his career towards becoming a service dog. >> and looks like he got a terrific reaction from everybody. >> he did. he wins hearts no matter where he goes. >> he bought a beer and peanuts, too. >> beer here. >> just remind us where he is in the process right now. >> we're aiming to have him finished with his training around december. so, he's about halfway there. >> we get him for another year. >> yeah. >> just about. >> that's great. we love him. we love him. >> this is going to be -- that's not going to be easy, the day charlie leaves studio 1a. we love you, too. >> thank you.

>> exactly. >> you got a good game, too. that came down to the wire. were you watching? did you watch any of the basketball game? >> we actually went home and went to bed and missed the end. >> memphis won by three, i think. >> needed a good night's sleep. >> olivia, thank you. >> traffic toss traffic good morning the time now is 8:56. we are seeing the weather winding down with light spotty showers on the radar now. we are also turning our attention to the next storm system set to move in. this will be here tomorrow with some more rain and wind. there will be several more after that. we are looking at a period of wet weather over the next

several days. temperatures will be cooler seeing highs only reaching into the 50s and low 60s for the inland areas. let's check in with mike for a look at the roadways. >> a horrible drive through oakland. 880 westbound still blocking two lanes north 880. that is about two hours from 238. more folks heading across to jam up 101. >> happening right now the skies around the bay area are clearing for the time being. you can stay current with the next round of rain with our nbc bay area app. that includes live doppler radar. there is a high surf advisory on the coast. see you in 30.

♪ this morning on "today's take," sara bareilles is here. and last-minute travel deals for presidents day and a special surprise coming up right now. >> from nbc news, this is "today's take" live frtudio 1a in rockefeller plaza. >> you know, on a thursday morning, it's february 16th. we're halfway through winter. and yet, we continue to feel summer-like because of justin timberlake's "can't stop the feeling."

this was the song of summer. >> love it. >> i don't know all the words. i know, dance, dance, dance. >> you know that, and you're good. >> he's feel-good royalty. our guest co-host is royalty on tv, alex park. alex park. >> thank you. >> you play the wild child on "the royals" on e! >> i do. >> are you, in fact, a wild child? >> in my own personal life? i mean, i feel like i would like to say that i am. and maybe, you know, in the earlier years, i was a little wild. >> when you were 13? >> when i was like 12. no. i mean, i wish, you know, i don't think anyone is as wild as her. she has calmed down in the recent season. she's not as -- >> spicey. >> for people who haven't seen it, we're going to show you a clip in a second. in ten seconds, how would you describe "the royals"? besides that everybody is ridiculously good-looking. >> thank you very much.

>> how would you describe it? >> "the royals" is a modern-day royal family. just a bunch of people in a regular family at the center of a corrupt monarchy. >> wow. >> a lot of scandal. >> a lot of drama. >> how does that work, though, when you go home and you visit in england and there's already a group of royals. how do people feel about that? >> i don't know. the english? >> yeah. the real english? >> i think they're excited about it. it's like a nice escape for them. a fantasy. it's make belief. >> like our "scandal." >> it's been compared to that before. >> it's a nice comic relief. there's no pressure. it's not real life. >> by the way, tony goldwyn will be here on monday. >> major drama last week on the show, with your bodyguard and on and off again boyfriend. let's take a look. >> yes.

>> because i took a file of classified information and i gave it to a reporter. i did that because the reporter knew about my past and i was trying -- >> i'm leaving soon. after the coronation. i'm going to be someone more than a princess. i'm leaving this behind, including you. >> i'm trying to tell you that i did what i did to protect you. >> it doesn't matter. it truly doesn't matter. i can't do this anymore. any of it. i don't want to and i'm not going to. >> even the bodyguards are good-looking. >> i told you. >> there's a process with the help in the palace. >> does everybody on the show, all the guys have that three-day growth? >> yeah.

that's a requirement. >> i don't know how they do that. >> it's a lot of upkeep. >> a lot of work being a royal. >> i never heard of a three-day growth. is that what it's called? >> the three days, just perfect. >> what is this for you? >> this is more than three days. here, i'm clean shaven. if i let it go for three days, i look like a hobo. >> you could go on "the royals," the uncle that comes into town. >> the black royals. i remember them. yeah. >> we need you. >> that's right. >> you know who your father is yet in. >> yes. >> okay. >> yeah. >> things change at a rapid pace. >> they do. >> if you follow the theory of how everybody looks, i would have to be played by idris elba. >> i need a stunt double. >> i have something else that might lead you coming into the show.

being that -- >> that's right. you got big news. >> yeah. >> i could fit into. >> this is like you led me to it. >> all right. >> this is exclusive. >> okay. >> here it is. so, we're going to do a season four of "the royals." >> yes. >> al is going to be it. he is my grandfather. >> king roker xii. >> don't get your nickers in a twist, eh? and we got a sneak peek of sunday's season finale. let's take a look, eh? >> i need you to understand. >> here's what i understand -- you and i were always the spares. this was always robert's destiny. as far as i can tell, something has changed. >> i've changed. me. >> yeah, i think you have changed, liam. you're acting like -- >> and he shaved, too.

wow. what's going on there? >> after a scene, do you have to -- >> you have to shake it off. go outside. get a little fresh air. vapor spray. >> and you're ready for the next. "the royals" airs on our sister network, e! sundays, 9:00, 10:00 central. if you haven't seen it, it's good. >> just so happens, we have a "royals" game all planned. it's not "today's take" unless there's a game. we are calling this battle royale. >> and there's props. >> we buzz in, blowing the regal horns. especially if your royalty is at a mets game. it doesn't even work. all right. >> this could get weird. >> set in 1940s england, what

royals-centric show won this year's golden globe for best drama? >> "the crown." >> yes. >> is that right? >> very good. >> only one i know. i just guessed. >> finish the lyric to this 2013 hit -- >> hold up. ♪ ♪ tigers on a gold leash >> here it is. >> come on. >> you have to blow first. no fair. >> okay, go. >> that was fantastic. ♪ we'll never be royals >> ding, ding. >> yes. name the royal-themed movie from the following screen shot here. >> oh. >> "princess diaries." >> you didn't blow your horn. ricola. "princess diaries."

plenty of actresses have won an award, including helen mirren, judi dench and kate blanchett. who was the most recently one in 2010. >> who recently played a royal in 2010? >> colin firth in "the king's speech." >> great movie. >> one more. what royal-themed show, with a princess saying i do what i want, and right now, i want to do this. >> wow. that's good. >> alex. wait. your character name. >> "the royals," absolutely correct. >> alex? >> yeah. >> which one? >> that was spectacular. >> jerry, crown her. >> what do you win? >> yes.

>> i always wanted to do this. elbow, elbow, wrist, wrist. >> looks like you're a margarine commercial. >> really? >> imperial margarine. you have to be of a certain age to remember that. you take a bite and a crown showed up on your head. >> some people know. i do country crock. >> those who are old like me, know that. we have a treat outside. an ice sculptor is out there working something for us. his work is featured in central park at the central park ice festival. he will be out there all morning long. we will reveal the product at the end of the show. >> that's cool. >> you can also follow along. check out our "today's take" facebook page for a special facebook live ice, ice, baby. do you remember your first kiss?

>> i mean -- >> okay. just a rhetorical question. about an hour ago. oscar winner, nicole kidman, does. wait until you hear what she was doing when it happened. and head to "today's take" facebook page, watching our ice sculpture in action. and tomorrow, a special facebook live page, where you watch paint dry. it's fantastic. ♪

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we're back with more of "today's take." our guest co-host from "the royals," alex park. they say you never forget your first kiss. same for nicole kidman. she said, i'm watching "the shining." we're playing hookie from school and i had my first kiss watching "the shining." >> "the shining." and we did a few other things other than kiss, too. don't ask. >> goodness me. >> did she say how old? >> i want to know what the other things were. >> in school. >> i wondered what age. middle school, high school. >> probably middle school. >> is that typical? >> i'm thinking "the shining." >> that's good. >> you remember your first kiss? >> i do. it was in third grade. >> third grade? >> well, it was like a peck on the cheek. i think that counts.

>> it does. >> third grade? >> yes. >> then, it was a long drought after that. went a long time. long, long time. long time. >> 42. >> something like that. >> your turn. >> me? >> i'm trying to run out of time. >> okay. i think mine was in the fifth grade. >> fifth grade. >> at school. and it was at school, at launch time. >> where were the teachers? >> they were not around. >> just leaving the kids to fend for themselves. >> each person at lunch, get it done. >> i agree. >> get it done? >> just like did it. >> it's true. i remember, i was in middle school. this makes me nervous. everybody in wichita was watching. middle school, seventh grade. i was terrified. >> how did you know it was coming? >> you know. >> you know. >> i knew it would be quick. i was square. i practiced on my teddy bear. really quickly.

>> wow. >> when the time came, okay, it was time to part ways. i was like -- and then, i opened my eyes and it was over. >> that was it? >> who was better? the teddy bear or the guy? >> i'm not saying a word. that person might be around somewhere. >> in january, you may remember, i know you remember everything we tell you. we announced the classic game of monopoly would be holding a vote to decide on the tokens of the future versions of the game. fans can choose from over 60 contenders. today, we have the worldwide exclue exclusive announcement on the first classic token that will be officially retired. drumroll, please -- very good. >> i'm sad. i hope it's not the thimble. i don't want it to be the hat. >> the race car. >> ready? >> it's the thimble. >> i like it -- it's caged like

it could escape. >> oh, man. >> if you take that one home, and put that on my thumb. >> that makes me sad. bye, thimble. >> it's in jail. >> i get it. >> the results will be revealed on world monopoly day, march 19th. go directly -- >> we're looking at it. >> thimble, what do you have to say? we take it to a close-up. i like it. we didn't put a mic on the thimble. let's show you what your weather is going to be like for today. more wet weather moving into california. unfortunately. and the pacific northwest. lake-effect snow and northern snow through new england. everywhere else looking good. and in fact, we're going to have regard highs in the central and northern plains today. look for more sunshine through florida. gorgeo good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. the rain is winding down.

still some spotty showers but we'll get peeks of sunshine around the bay area. a chance to dry out as storm one moves out and get ready for storm two moving in tomorrow morning. this evening all dry. you can head out with a dry evening commute. tomorrow morning's commute turns very wet with another wave of rain moving in. it will be heavy at times with gusty winds. still some scattered showers through tomorrow after. >> she's released it. >> it can be a hat. >> lovely hat. >> that's your latest weather. up next, how does a southern getaway sound? last-minute trips. and a surprise for you viewers at home. and our ice masters, hard at work on the plaza. chipping away a sculpture just for us. watch on facebook live on our facebook page, "today's ♪ ...just don't face. ♪ and i even got my own dance. ♪ ♪ the humpty dance is your chance ♪ ♪ to do the hump. humpty dumpty: the what? turbotax agent: hello mr. dumpty,

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you can clearly hear... what could that mean? woman: tom? tom! they're just commercials. or are they? you're waking the neighbors. well, mom, maybe the neighbors need to be woke. i think it's actually "awoken." no, that doesn't even seem right. no, it's "awoken." revealing the truth to help you save. okay. so, we got a three-day weekend with the presidents day holiday. mark elwood has some great last-minute getaways. listen closely because there's a huge surprise for some of you watching at home. good morning. let's start, key west, florida. >> where else? it feels like the edge of the world. i love key west. you have a counterculture. you have an amazing ernest hemingway house.

go where he lived. i love the concord down there. it's an amazing to get fish buddies. >> i had those. where should you stay? >> stay at margaritaville resort. patron saint of key west. water sports. k >> you want fancier, how about miami? >> i'm biased. great beaches. a lot more, as well. the sea aquarium. the art museum. you can take walking tours, as well. and head over to coconut grove. a fantastic hotel. >> where do you like to stay? >> i like to stay at the senesta because it has a roof. it has a rooftop view across biscayne bay. a beautiful place. >> here's an interesting one. young harris, georgia. >> if you're an outdoorsy type,

this is a secret getaway in north georgia. it's the tallest mountain in georgia. you can see four states on a good day from there. you can hike around and connect to the appalachian trail. you want to get somebody that's outdoorsy, but not overrun, gret destination. >> great place to say, the valley resort. just $189 this weekend. ten miles of hiking trials. you can ride on horses. >> out west. crested butte, colorado. what does that offer this time of year? >> it is the place to snow. 34 1/2 inches of snow every february. but also, this is a bit like aspen. it was an old mining town. victorian houses. >> and to stay? >> you stay at the crested butte mountain resort. it's walkable to the ski lifts. and indoor and outdoor heated

pools, which is what i'm looking for. >> mark, thanks. hold on. we have sheinelle and alex out on the plaza with more exciting news. guys, take it away. >> good morning. who wants a trip? good morning. okay. anybody want to go to key west, florida? key west, florida? key west, florida? you're going to two tickets to key west, florida. okay. and you, have won a trip to young harris, georgia. >> you have to take your own suitcase. >> al, over to you. i can't hear anything. >> all right. here we go. first of all, we want to thank senesta coconut grove, miami. and crested butte resort. two three-night stays with round trip airfare to you, our viewers

at home. to get into it, visit facebook.com/todaystake. find out how to enter. and we hope you would like us, as well. check out our "today's take" facebook page. coming up, she plays a fierce wife, mallon ackerman is here. when i have a headache, i don't want to put my life on hold. i've got a big night planned with my friends.

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♪i'm ... ==traic=our micrlimate weather - tapering off t a good thursday morning. 9:26. i'm sam brock. o our microclimate alert as our skies clear. a live look at downtown san francisco. dryer still, a little cloudy. we have been seeing patches of blue starting to stick out. that's a good sign. along highway 17 drivers are still dealing with very difficult conditions. road crews worked through this morning's storm to try and clear an area that's seen a string of recent mudslides. both seconds down to one lane by vine hill road. there's another storm on tap. meteorologist kari hall is monitoring the next round of rain. >> we will see some more rain in the forecast once again. this is the first storm system in a series of four.

so, we'll have more wet weather moving in. want to show you the timeline because the next wave moves in early tomorrow morning with some heavy rain that's also impacting parts of southern california and some gusty winds for us, too. on saturday, a little bit of a break in between, a chance to dry out. the third storm system moving in late sunday into monday. and there will be a fourth one right behind that arriving on tuesday into wednesday. so, getting ready for a pattern of some wet weather. and we're still trying to recover from the rain we had this morning. we'll talk more about that coming up a little bit later. sam? >> thank you so much. after the break, residual backups are rough this morning after a big rig crashed on 880. mike will have a status report in two minutes. ck oakland 880

welcome back. looking at your commute. head willing over to san mateo things are crowded getting into

oakland. this is horrible because we still have two right lanes blocked by the overturned rig. 880 and 580 westbound, your alternate, super tough drive. very late in the commute. sending folks along the san mateo so slowing in the peninsula. even folks trying to get on the freeway are jammed up from 98 and 66. the san mateo bridge west bound is an alternate and a little better now. a smoother drive on 92 up along the peninsula to san francisco. that's an alternate instead of the oakland drive in you're heading to the city. >> did you say redonculous? >> i did. >> must be that. back in 30 minutes.

you know her for starring in rom-coms, but now, malin ackerman is wrapped up in greed and money. >> she is wrapped up in "billions" playing a loyal wife and protector of her family. >> it's good. here's a sneak peek from the season two premiere. >> how does a mother passing by know more than her? >> i can't administer serious medication because of some rich lady -- >> stop talking. topher, i'm not leaving my kids in the care of this idiot. do you have to do it now? >> i need a licensed nurse on premises at all times.

>> hey, mo. it's lara. i know you're working nights. but i need your help. can you do a shift at the horace school right now? you're the best. my cousin will be here in 45 minutes. i'll cover until then. fully licensed. bye. >> end scene. >> wow. >> she doesn't mess around. >> you are fierce. >> long pause. >> perfect. >> just for dramatic effect. >> are you like this in real life? >> 100%. just like that. >> no. i'm a kill 'em with kindness kind of gal. she's a kill 'em gal. we go about things a little differently. i will protect my family fiercely. but it looks very different. >> the show is amazing.

did you feel it would be a hit? you have an all-star cast. it seems like a fun cast. >> it's a wonderful cast. it's one of the reasons i signed on, aside from the brilliant writing. for me, it felt like a hit. but you never know. you can read a script and it's wonderfully written. you never know how it comes together. i'm happy it's doing really well. i'm happy to be on a show that's gotten a second season. never happened before for me. that's a step in the right direction. >> i'm a huge fan of yours. >> thank you. >> i watch all of your comedic roles and your films. was it different playing a serious, badass character like that? >> it is. i love my comedy, for sure. >> you're very good at it. >> and i would love to go back to it, of course. this was a nice challenge. and i was looking for something a little different i could sink my keith into a character that

has lots of layers. and she really is an intriguing character to play because she's tough, she's hard, she also has this -- she represents the nurture in the show because she's all about family. and it's family values. it was a nice culmination to play this powerful, strong woman, who is equal to her husband and mutual respect. he's a strong character. and just a lovely -- damian lewis, yeah. >> your 3-year-old son, sebastian, a real cutie. and you're swedish. are you teaching him about your culture? i mean, malin sounds like a dresser at ikea. >> i might ask them to name a dresser after me, al. that would be lovely. i'm trying to continue the swedish. it's difficult because i've lived in canada since i was 2. my preferred language is now english. but he's shown a massive interest in swedish.

so, we have now started talking every day. just a little bit every day. >> you're fluent. >> still fluent in it, yeah. >> how would you say we'll be right back after the break? >> sounds better when you say it. >> what she said. >> before we do what she said, you can catch "billions" on showtime. up next, grammy-nominated singer, sara bareilles. find out what she's serving up. and a big reveal of our ice sculpture is just moments tech: at safelite, we know how busy your life can be. mom: oh no... tech: this mom didn't have time to worry about a cracked windshield. so she scheduled at safelite.com and with safelite's exclusive "on my way text" she knew exactly when i'd be there, so she didn't miss a single shot. i replaced her windshield giving her more time for what matters most. tech: how'd ya do? player: we won! tech: nice! that's another safelite advantage. mom: thank you so much! (team sing) safelite repair, safelite replace.

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how did it become absent-mindedly to snacking? eating one after the next? we are a creamy cheese that still believes in savoring our food. the laughing cow. reinvent snacking. next guest. just happen to be enjoying some pie, honor of our talented guest, singing star, sara bareill bareilles. she wrote the score for

"waitress." which is a huge success. >> and she's here today to make a big announcement her fans are going to love. sa sara, it is good to see you. >> and kudos for the set. one of the most charming sets. >> that's why we're thrilled. we love having you here. it was a perfect excuse to have pie. in "waitress" they bake pie. but we have this pie purse. you're going to make a special announcement about the next actress in your play. >> i'm here to reveal who is stepping into the role. >> the music you wrote. >> you almost hear your voice when you're sitting in the audience. it has your sound. >> it does. >> it must have taken a lot to pick this person. >> it was a grueling decision. >> tough shoes to fill. >> oh, my god. i had no idea. >> oh, my god.

it's sara bareilles. >> what? i didn't sign up for this. >> my gosh. >> yes. i'm going in. i'm going into the show. >> i always thought, why isn't sara bareilles in this show? why did it take so long? >> jessie mueller was in the show. and she originated the role. and i have to give her so many incredible accolades because she has been an absolute amazing gift to the show. and now, i get to carry on the legacy. and this show can't get rid of me. it's been the love of my life. the last four years have been totally dedicated to it. as we launch our national tour and now, i get to step into the show. >> sara, this is going to be big. don't you feel it? >> for people who hasn't had a chance to see "waitress" on broadway, you go in and they have pie. you can have pie. all kinds of pie. i was like, ooh, i'm going to do

oreo cookie in a jar. you have oreo cookie pie in a jar. do you wait? >> i will wait. >> my oreo cookie pie was gone before it got started. it was fantastic. >> has this been a dream of yours to be on broadway? >> my entire life. i grew up doing musical theater. i learned that i loved performance was on a community theater. yeah. that's me in "charlotte's web." very proud. in humboldt county, where i grew up, at the ferndale repertory theater. that was my big dream, to be on stage. >> congratulations. >> really exciting. >> are we going to have another album coming soon? >> working on it. >> suddenly, there's a golf tournament. >> i am working on it. i'm writing right now. and hopefully, before the end of the year, we'll have new music for you guys. >> when will you have time to do

that? >> i'm going to skip sleeping this year. i'll sleep next year. >> so overrated, that sleep. we're so thrilled, sara. thanks for bringing us the news and the pie. >> we can eat this. >> and you can see sara in "waitress" on broadway, starting march 31st. i'm going to go do weather. hold on. just a sec. okay. want to make sure we get this all right. okay. get your pie here. got your pie. wouldn't it be great if we could have a pie fight? >> yeah. >> i'm channeling soupy sails. record highs in the mid plains. looking at flooding rain through california. going to be bad news there. beautiful weather along the east coast. saturday, the record highs make

their way into the great lakes. wet weather through the lower mississippi valley. heavy rain moves into the southwest, with the sunshine continues in the east. sunday, sunday, the eastern third of the country looking good, with record good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. some heavy rain quickly moves through the bay area earlier today. well, now we're getting some clearing. still some lingering light showers. as we go into the rest of the forecast, showing more clearing and a chance to dry out. after that quick round of some rain this morning, the next round moves in before the morning commute. by 10:30 we have a pretty good coverage and pockets of heavy rain as well. they kind of lingers off and on throughout the afternoon. this next round will last a little bit longer. >> did you smell this? >> yeah. >> you're going to steal my pie. >> that's your latest weather.

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there's no end to what you can discover. the laughing cow. reinvent snacking. itbut one i think with quesa simple answer. we have this need to peek over our neighbor's fence. and once we do, we see wonder waiting. every step you take, narrows the influence of narrow minds. bridges continents and brings this world one step closer.

so, the question you asked me. what is the key? it's you. everything in one place, so you can travel the world better. so, your child decides to get artistic and color all over your wooden table. >> or you spilled red wine all on the carpet. >> no worry. we show you what to do and not to do. >> thanks for having me. we have all been there. we all made the mistakes. our kids made the messes for us to clean. >> or yourself. >> i know. >> this is a common masterpiece. your kid gets creative. and all over your dining room table or kitchen table. >> how do we get it off? >> the first reaction is to reach for the cleaning products.

you want to get some dish soap and water. warm water. and you're going to rub it in and do this. the reason is, harsh cleaning products can strip the finish off of your stuff. exactly. >> i go for the orange cleaner. >> right. you would try to do that. but it might ruin your stuff. and these are expensive pieces of furniture. you might do more harm than good. that's an easy thing to do. >> this is the story of my life. i say i won't buy anymore play-doh. but you go to the dollar store. and it's everywhere. >> like candle wax. >> this is a scenario, where you might want to pour a bunch of cleaning supplies on there. you don't want to get the play-doh wet. the best play to clean play-doh. is to give it a feel. you're going to use a coarse brush. and you brush it off into little pieces. it will take some elbow greece. >> get someone with muscles. >> you're not getting it wet at

all? >> not wet at all. you can use the brush. you can pick pieces off and >> announcer: this is an nbc news special report. here's lester holt. >> good day, everyone. from new york, we're on the air to bring you a news conference from president trump. it was announced over 90 minutes ago in his first solo news conference as president, he's about to appear there in the east room of the white house, where we expect him to announce his new nominee for labor secretary. nbc news confirmed he has selected alexander acosta, who served as assistant attorney general under president george w bush, also a member of the national labor relations board. he would be the first latino in the trump cabinet. this comes after the president's first pick for labor secretary, puzder, withdrew his name yesterday amid mounting bipartisan concerns over his business record and past personal issues.

it's the latest turmoil for the trump white house following monday's resignation of national security adviser michael flynn, who misled the administration about his conversations with russia. nbc news white house correspondent kristen welker is in the press conference room. he is expected to announce the new pick for labor secretary. is it clear whether this will be a formal q&a since we saw him twice this week? >> we expect him to take some questions, at least that is the hope. we do get the sense he wants to weigh in on what you were talking about. the resignation of his former national security adviser, michael flynn, who stepped down amid a swirl of controversy. and yesterday, the president pointed the finger at the media and the leakers. earlier today, he said, we're going to get the leakers. i anticipate we might hear about that today if he does, in fact, answer our questions. lester, this comes amid growing

calls for investigations on capitol hill. it appears as though there might be three different investigations that get underway regarding the flynn controversy. the president himself saying he is going to launch an inquiry into the leaks. all of that is heating us as he is poised to announce his new labor secretary. >> i think we have a moment. the president seems to be going to the source of the information, not the information itself. is that a wise strategy? >> it is not. what he is basically saying, in a few words, is without saying it, is i'm afraid of the facts that may come out. when you start worrying about leaks, it means you're worried about the information. look, this is an important moment for the president, lester, right now. there is support for him on capitol hill is shakier than it was yesterday. yesterday was shakier than it was the day before. the reason there's a comfort level with some republicans now openly talking about more

investigations. there's a comfort level this week of capitol hill republicans going, you know what? i'm not going to put myself out on the line for this labor secretary. all of it together collectively is feeding this notion that this white house is not fully in control of everything, doesn't really have everything running very smoothly, and that you just watched capitol hill republicans and that nervousness is starting to sink in over there. so he needs something like this to stop the bleeding. i don't know if, you know -- what kind of answers he gives today at the press conference, but this is an important moment for him, lester. >> we know he's surrounded by a lot of people, but is it clear now -- we're 26 days or so into the administration. is it clear who has his ear, who is helping to create a communicative atmosphere in the oval office? >> honestly, it doesn't. it feels as if there is still jockeying between kushner, his son-in-law, steve bannon and

reince priebus. who is point on tax in the white house? who is point on immigration? none of that is fully clear to folks. i think inside the white house, the lack of clarity, where at some point everybody has the president's ear and, at some point, it is competing factions, that lack of claretclarity, i t is leading to the appearance as if they're not a fully functioning west wing. that is what has so many capitol hill republicans nervous right now. >> kristen welker, as you wait in the east room for the appearance of the president, we noted alexander acosta will be announced as the new labor secretary pick. based on what we know about his resume, it would seem he'd have an easier shot at a confirmation. >> that's right, lester. officials here say that one of his strengths is the fact he has been confirmed three times by the senate. as you mentioned, he's served as the former u.s. assistant attorney general for the civil rights division.

he also served on the national labor relations board. this is someone who has a strong background. he'd be the first latino to serve in the administration and would add to the diversity of this administration, which is something that they've been questioned about, lester. again, a lot of this overshadowed by the mounting controversy over flynn. >> we see vice president pence walking in. reince priebus, asbannon, as we. this will be the president's first solo news conference. we saw him in conferences earlier this year. first with minister netanyahu and also prime minister trudeau. this is what we believe to be his first solo news conference as president. here is president trump now approaching the podium in the east room. >> thank you very much.

i just wanted to begin by mentioning that the nominee for secretary of the department of labor will be mr. alex acosta. he has a law degree from harvard law school. a great school. former clerk for justice samuel alito. and he has had a tremendous career. he's a member and has been a member of the national labor relations board. and has been through senate confirmation three times. confirmed, did very, very well. so alex, i've wished him the best. we just spoke. he's going to be -- i think he'll be a tremendous secretary of labor. and also, as you probably heard just a little while ago, mick mulvaney, former congressman,

has just been approved, weeks late -- i have to say that -- weeks, weeks late -- office of management and budget. he will be, i think, a fantastic addition. paul singer just left. paul was very much involved with the anti-trump or, as they say, never trump. paul just left, and he's given us his total support. it is all about unification. we're unifying the party. hopefully, we're going to be able to unify the country. it is very important to me. i've been talking about that for a long time. it is very, very important to me. so i want to thank paul singer for being here and for coming up to the office. he was very strong opponent and now, he is a very strong ally. i appreciate that. i think i'll say a few words, and then we'll take some questions. i had this time. we've been negotiating a lot of different transactions to save money on contracts that were

terrible. including airplane contracts that were out of control and late and terrible. just absolutely catastrophic in terms of what was happening. we've done some really good work. we're very proud of that. then right after that, you prepare yourselves. we'll do some questions, unless you have no questions. that's always a possibility. i'm here today to update the american people on the incredible progress that has been made in the last four weeks since my inauguration. we have made incredible progress. i don't think there's ever been a president elected who, in this short period of time, has done what we've done. a new rasmussen poll, because the people get it, much of the media doesn't get it, they get it but they don't write it, let's put it that way, but a new poll just came out a short while ago. it has our approval rating at 55% and going up. the stock market has hit record

numbers, as you know. there has been a tremendous surge of optimism in the business world, which to me means something much different than it used to. it used to mean, oh, that's good. now, it means, that's good for jobs. very different. pl plants and factories are already starting to move back into the united states, ford, general motors, so many of them. i'm making the presentation directly to the american people with the media present, which is an honor to have you, this morning because many of our nations' reporters and folks will not tell you the truth and will not treat the wonderful people of our country with the respect that they deserve. i hope going forward, we can be a little bit -- a little bit different and maybe get along a little bit better, if that's possible. maybe it is not, and that's okay, too. unfortunately, much of the, d.c

new york and los angeles, in particular, speaks not for the people but for the special interests and for those profiting off a very, very obviously obviously broken system. the press has become so dishonest that if we don't talk about it, we are doing a tremendous disservice to the american people, tremendous disservice. we have to talk about it, to find out what's going on because the president honestly is out of control, the level of dishonesty is out of control. i ran for president to represent the citizens of our country. i am here to change the broken system so it serves their families and their communities well. i am talking and really talking on this very entrenched power structure and what we're doing is we're talking about the power structure, we're talking about its entrenchment. as a result the media's going through what