a live look at san francisco, a beautiful shot. the sun shining on the buildings. just take a look at that and enjoy the bay. the "today" show up next for you. >> will do. good morning. spread alert as the mutated and extra contagious coronavirus strain rages in the uk. new concerns it's already arrived here in the states. >> given the travel throughout the world, i would not be surprised if it's already here. when we start to look for it, wee going to find it. >> but hope remains as new vaccine doses are delivered from coast to coast. we are live as frontline workers receive some of the very first vaccinations. breaking overnight -- holiday help. congress passes that relief bill. the second biggest ever to get americans their badly needed

stimulus checks. what you need to know, and when you'll see that money. point of contention. a cheating scandal at west point its worst in nearly half a century, rocks one of the most elite institutions in america. this morning the reaction from congress, and what's next for the cadets involved. white christmas? a major storm takes shape targeting a large swath of the country with messy weather just in time for the holiday. dylan's got your forecast. basketball's back. nba commissioner adam silver on restarting the season tonight, outside the bubble. >> it's not easy being cooped up for months. >> opening up to craig about the big changes being made and why. >> we want to work. those stories, plus -- christmas star. the dazzling sight in the sky centuries in the making that brought some much-needed light to the darkest night of the

year. today tuesday, december 22nd, 2020. >> announcer: from nbc news, this is "today" with savannah guthrie and hoda kotb live from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. hey, everybody. welcome to "today." so happy you're joining us on this tuesday morning. savannah's enjoying time off and, craig, so good to have you back in the studio. >> so good to be here. >> you all right? >> i'm great. thanks for having me. >> okay. a lot happening today as we take a look at capitol hill, where overnight that all-important relief bill was passed. we're going to tell you when those checks are set to arrive. meanwhile, the vaccine rollout continues to, really move at full steam ahead. dr. anthony fauci expected to receive his vaccine today. he'll be getting the moderna vaccine. we're live this morning where the first moderna vaccines are taking place this morning. >> and that gets us right to our top story as the nation

surpasses 18 million covid cases just days away from christmas. hospitals and hot spots, they are teetering on the brink, and despite warnings, millions are planning to fly for the holiday raising fears for a surge of cases in the new year. with growing concern that the mutated virus may already be here, we have complete coverage and we'll start with nbc national correspondent miguel almaguer in hard-hit los angeles. good morning. >> reporter: good morning. as covid cases continue to skyrocket, health officials are trying to reinforce the public that the vaccines are safe. we want to take you over to bethesda maryland where dr. anthony fauci, alex azar and other officials are set to get their vaccine. again, this is part of the campaign so the public can have confidence when it's their turn to get the vaccine. but it comes as covid cases continue to skyrocket also

overseas. this morning new concerns from a mutation of the coronavirus, said to be more contagious, quickly spreading in the uk, is already here in the u.s. >> given the travel throughout the world, i would not be surprised if it's already here. when we start to look for it, we're going to find it. >> reporter: new york's governor now insisting all uk travelers be tested for covid before arriving at jfk. >> why you wouldn't take action and require that people who fly to this country be tested first is beyond me. i mean, how many times do you have to make the same mistake in life? >> reporter: dr. fauci says the need for a full-on travel ban from the uk is premature. >> i don't think that there's enough evidence right now to essentially lockdown any travel from the uk. >> reporter: but there is good news. experts believe the new vaccines offer protection against the new strain.

>> code blue, icu north, bay 18. >> reporter: it comes as the very hospitals where americans turn for help are now in need of their own. >> people should be afraid. i'm afraid. we are getting crushed. >> reporter: the shifting epicenter of the covid crisis crippling the health care system in california. the state is overrun with nearly 44,000 new coronavirus cases each day. >> we're overwhelmed with patients and we're going to double bunk them in here. >> reporter: this video taken by the "washington post" capturing one hospital in need of a lifeline. >> i can't tell you how many patients i have watched die, watched die alone. >> reporter: and california is not alone. in utah, icus are at 99.4% capacity. oklahoma, tennessee and text have among the highest number of cases per capita. since thanksgiving, more than 54,000 americans have lost their lives to covid, and now

christmas travel is showing the biggest surge since the start of the pandemic, with more than 1 million americans going through tsa checkpoints over each of the last three days. >> there was not one empty seat on the plane. >> reporter: back in maryland, dr. fauci is expected to get his vaccine at any moment. >> miguel almaguer, thank you. amid concerns, there is a feeling of hope swelling across the country, and that's because the second approved coronavirus vaccine is rolling out nationwide today the moderna vaccine has reached clearwater florida and kerry sanders is standing by with more on the rollout and who is going to be getting the shots first. kerry, good morning. >> reporter: good morning. with the u.s. surpassing 18 million coronavirus cases, the moderna vaccine is now being administered here at bay care health system in clearwater. the moderna is, as you noted, the second approved vaccine, and

for those who are here getting it, the health care workers, this is the first real sense of protection that they have had since this pandemic began. >> reporter: 6 million doses of the moderna vaccine rolling out nationwide at ups in miami, the precious cargo on its way. >> i'm very proud to be part of this historic moment >> reporter: a moment health care workers have been anxiously awaiting chief pharmacy officer taking in the first delivery at baptist health, south florida. >> how does it feel to have it here >> it's a blessing it's a great piece of hope >> reporter: health experts say both vaccines are equally effective. the difference, moderna's can be stored without the freezing temperatures. >> they can go to the hospitals. all hospitals have freezers.

>> reporter: on monday, the president-elect and jill biden getting their shots in delaware. >> i'm doing this to demonstrate that people should be prepared when it's available to take the vaccine. there's nothing to worry about >> reporter: over the next few weeks, nearly all vaccines will continue to go to health care workers and nursing homes. people 75 and older, plus essential workers, will go next, says the cdc advisory panel. that includes firefighters, police, teachers, public transit workers, postal workers, and those in manufacturing and the food industry. not all agree with the decision. florida's governor is one of them >> the problem with that is, as i see it, is a 22-year-old food service worker would get a vaccine over a 74-year-old grandmother. i don't think that that's an appropriate calculation of the relative risk there. >> reporter: but for now, those getting the vaccine simply a

feeling of overwhelming hope >> do you know how many lives we can save with this not only the lives, but the prevention of the virus from being spread to somebody else. it's exponential >> reporter: well, those of the folks here at bay care health system that are getting the moderna vaccine here will have to come back in 30 days to get another vaccine. the pfizer vaccine has those coming back in 21 days guys, there's no mixing and matching when you start with one, you stay with it. >> so good to see those folks getting vaccinated kerry, what is the timeline for the next priority groups, and who do those groups include? >> reporter: well, we're going to show you the graphics here because this really looks like it's going to start sometime in around february for the next groups, and we're talking about folks who are over 75 years old, essential workers, totaling about 49 million people. after that, the next group will be those between the ages of 65

and 74, as well as 16 to 64-year-olds with high-risk medical conditions and other essential workers. that covers roughly 129 million people and could happen as soon as march or april. lastly, the general population, anyone over 16 recommended for the vaccine, it could come late spring or early summer and it's important to note that even when you get the vaccine, you still wear a mask, you still social distance, and you still constantly wash your hands guys >> kerry, thank you. we have the dean of the school of public health at brown university joining us this morning. good to see you, sir thanks for your time. >> good morning. thanks for having me on. >> let's start with the new mutation as i understand it, it's not terribly unusual for there to be mutations like this when it comes to viruses like this but this particular mutation reportedly 50% more contagious does that mean it's deadlier, and what does that mean for the two approved vaccines?

>> so, great questions these viruses do tend to mutate. that's pretty normal the more infections there are in any place, the more opportunities for mutations. it does look like, by all the evidence, that this is more contagious that means if you're exposed to it, you're more likely to be infected than with some of the other strains. no evidence that it's any deadlier if you get infected, no evidence that it's going to be more harmful and at least in the short front, i'm not worried about it having any effect on the vaccine. the vaccine should be able to cover this but we're going to have to track this closely to make sure that doesn't change over time. >> as you know t governor of new york wants everyone traveling from the united kingdom to get tested before they arrive here in new york state. you've got dr. anthony fauci saying that a travel ban would be too far, nonetheless, dozens of countries have banned travel from the united kingdom because of this new mutation of the virus. what do you say? should there be a travel ban should we be testing everyone that comes in from the united kingdom?

>> so what we know about travel bans is they do tend to slow down the spread from a specific country, so i think if we did one from the uk it would slow it down i doubt it would keep it out of this country i would not be surprised if we don't have a few of those cases already in this country. that's the nature of global pandemics. so i'm not opposed to a travel ban. i like the idea of testing everybody before we get on a plane and come to the u.s., but i don't think ultimately we will be able to keep the strain out of the u.s. >> we now have two approved vaccines, and unsurprisingly, there seems to be a bit of controversy over who should be next up in line to get the vaccine. there's been some talk now that republican governor of florida saying the idea of a 22-year-old fast food worker getting the vaccine before a 74-year-old grandparent doesn't make a whole lot of sense what do you say, dr. jha how should we be deciding who gets the vaccine next? >> so there are two sets of goals with the vaccine one is certainly to protect the most vulnerable, that's the elderly.

but also to slow the spread, and that's why we put essential workers on the front lines because they're much more likely to get infected and much more likely to spread the disease i think what cdc did was recommend that we should pick from both groups, but states have flexibility if governor desantis feels like the 74-year-old should come first, i think he and the state have the ability to do that. we do want to be putting essential workers in that next batch as well, though, because they are more likely to be exposed, they are more likely to spread it and we want to protect them as well. >> really quickly, dr. jha, we're seeing records set in cases, hospitalizations, deaths. a number of public experts have said what we're seeing is a direct result of thanksgiving travel what would you tell the millions of people that are traveling for the christmas holiday? >> yeah, what i would say is i totally get why you're doing it. we are not traveling this year and i'm recommending that people stay home. we're so close to having widespread vaccine availability, this is not the time you want to get family members sick.

this is the time to hunker down. things are pretty bad right now. four to six weeks i think things will start turning around. have good holidays, but keep them safe and small. >> enjoy your holiday, sir thanks as always. >> thank you. overnight in washington, congress passed a massive covid relief package that will give direct aid to struggling americans. that sweeping legislation includes a new round of stimulus checks, an extension of unemployment benefits and more money for vaccines nbc's chief white house correspondent hallie jackson joins us with more good morning >> reporter: good morning, hoda. the first of those direct payments you're talking about could start going out just a few days after christmas the checks and the other pandemic relief are certainly welcome news for a lot of folks, but even though this is a huge bill, given the scope of this crisis, some leaders say it's just not big enough. for congress, a done deal finally as overnight lawmakers green light a massive pandemic relief package

the $900 billion bill includes more money for unemployment benefits, small businesses, and direct checks to many americans. $600 for people making less than $75,000 a year, plus another $600 for every child because the bill is so big, nearly 5,600 pages it might take a few days to reach the president's desk once he signs it into law, expect those checks to come first, maybe as soon as the start of next week, according to the treasury secretary, who says this deal should be enough to help americans until the economy gets better. >> i think this will take us through the recovery >> reporter: but many democrats say it's only the beginning. >> anyone who thinks this bill is enough doesn't know what's going on in america. >> reporter: dee robinson knows what it's like to feel financial pandemic pain. >> it's been a very long, tough road for me, and very challenging. even food, i'm going to food

pantries and -- i don't want to start crying. >> reporter: she's been delivering food and driving for ride share apps to try to keep her and her sons afloat. >> $600, i wasn't happy about it but i said it's something. at least when i get evicted it will help with the hotel room. >> reporter: some of the key parts of the relief package run out in months. protection from eviction only lasts until january. president-elect joe biden might extend it once he takes office the $300 a week in additional unemployment benefits is set to stop in the middle of march. and at the end of that month is the deadline for small businesses to get another round protecti of loans under the $285 billion paycheck protection program. this is the second biggest stimulus package congress has ever passed, but already for some of the reasons you just heard, some democrats are previewing another round of relief once president-elect biden takes office in january. >> you said the bill is over 5,000 pages long and our

research department did some digging and found out that it's longer than the entire harry potter series. why don't you walk us through what else we need to know. >> did harry potter ever fund the government that's what this does. you talk about how big the bill is it also includes, because of the money for a bunch of other programs and priorities that don't have anything to do with the pandemic for example, it establishes an american women's history museum and american latino museum it also pays for a pilot program to try to get rid of those murder hornets that turned up this year. >> it covers a lot hallie jackson for us, thanks. it is time now for our first check of the weather look who is in for mr. roker for the rest of the holiday week some folks are going to get a white christmas and some are going to get a wet christmas. >> you nailed it, craig. if you want to do weather, you are more than welcome. we are going to see a lot of rain and some snow

you can see the cold front, it tomorrow, but we will see snow and wind on the back side of it. areas like indiana, also into ohio and the appalachians, that's where we're going to see the snow take hold so you could hang onto that white christmas potential as we go into friday behind it we are looking for extremely strong and gusty winds on friday. here is how much rain. about 2 to 3 inches on top of the snow that's on the ground. so that could create some flooding, especially on some of the smaller streets that don't have good drainage so that's something that's going to be a concern, especially going into friday. but here are the areas where we have the potential for a white christmas, including the great lakes. we could see up to 6 to 8 inches of snow. that's a look at the weather across the country we'll get to your local forecast in the next 30 seconds ♪ this is the first day of my life♪

♪ i was born right in the doorway♪ ♪ i don't know where i am, ♪ i don't know where i've been ♪ but i know where i wanna go starting out very foggy. visibility down to a quarter mile or less in parts of the delta, east bay as well as the north bay. check out napa, low visibility there, too. be careful on your way to work. once we get gradual clearing today temperatures reaching into the upper 50s and low 60s and rain moves in in time for christmas day. and that's your latest forecast back to you guys. >> dylan, thank you. coming up, fallout this morning from the biggest cheating scandal in nearly half a century at west point.

how the cadets were caught and what happens next for the prestigious military academy. also ahead this morning, nba season tipping off tonight this time without a covid bubble i spent time with the league's commissioner to find out why and how they plan to keep players and staff safe. but first, this is "today" ♪ we're going to find the perfect tree. we're going skating. we're going to nana's. wherever you go this holiday, chevy can help you get there. which is why we're making our chevy... ...employee discount available to everyone. the chevy price you pay... s what we pay. not a cent more. so wherever you go, happy holidays from chevy. use the chevy employee discount for everyone to get over six thousand eight hundred dollars below msrp on this equinox. get the chevy employee discount for everyone today.

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good morning to you. it's 7:26. i'm kris sanchez. here's a look at your top stories for this tuesday morning including a late-night deadly shooting on a freeway. >> reporter: i'm cierra johnson in san francisco. a fatal shooting on the off ramp of cesar chavez southbound 101. cameras on the ground captured a crash on the ramp involving two cars, both cars damaged as well as that median. investigators really combed the scene for clues. we're pressing chp for more information including what happened to other folks involved and what led up to that

incident. good morning, everyone. i'm scott mcgrew. congress has passed and we do expect the president to sign the new coronavirus stimulus bill that will deliver $600 checks to many americans and increase the amount of unemployment benefits. we'll have everything about it coming up at 11:00. all right. a look at your forecast as well. meteorologist kari hall is tracking some christmas rain maybe. yeah, looking forward to that rain coming in on christmas. right now we have to deal with the unhealthy air quality in the south bay. and so it's a spare the air alert day. no wood burning and unhealthy in the south bay. into the next several days our dry weather and our calm winds turns to rain as we head to christmas day. and for the weekend the rain will be off and on, our temperatures cooling off a few more degrees as well. we will have the cold mornings and mostly dry afternoons up

until christmas day and then we'll see some showers coming in off and on throughout the week. kris? all right, thank you so much, kari. more local news in half an hour. in a land not so far away,

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again, again! xfinity mobile. your wireless. your rules. your way to stay closer together. click, call, or visit an xfinity store today. we're back now 7:30 on this tuesday morning, december 22, 2020. ladies and gentlemen, that is a welcome sight for everyone who is sick of 2020. that giant illuminated 2021 sign arrived in times square for the big new year's eve celebration. >> in true 2020 style, there will only be a few dozen invited spectators at the party on new year's eve, not the usual million or so who usually pack into time square

>> carson is getting ready let's get to your 7:30 headlines. outgoing attorney general william barr says he has no plans to appoint a special counsel to look into the taxes and business dealings of president-elect biden's son hunter biden barr said the current investigation by prosecutors is being handled responsibly and professionally president trump has claimed without evidence that joe biden improperly boosted his son's business deals overseas when he served as vice president mr. barr also said on monday that he saw no need to appoint a special counsel to investigate the president's claims of massive voter fraud. a spectacular explosion shut down a major new york city expressway overnight police say a truck hauling propane tanks was cut off by another vehicle, flipped over. the impact caused the propane tank to burst into flames. although the truck was destroyed, somehow the driver escaped with only minor injuries it took several hours before those lanes, though, were

reopened to traffic. and the heavily favored pittsburgh steelers continued their skid with a shocking loss to the cincinnati bengals on monday night football. the steelers, who were at one point the last undefeated team in the nfl, have now dropped three in a row the bengals were ahead 17-0 at halftime, thanks to steelers' turnovers. pittsburgh managed to rally in the second half but it wasn't enough ryan finley and his bengals holding onto the game 27-17. >> we're not counting the steelers out, though, are we >> no. >> i don't think so. now to the biggest academic scandal in decades for the prestigious u.s. military academy at west point. >> more than 70 students there have been accused of cheating. nbc's stephanie gosk is following the story for us good morning to you. >> caller: good morning. you know, the u.s. military academy at west point is one of this country's elite institutions, and graduates

often go on to leadership roles in the government, as well as the military this morning, congresswoman jackie spear who sits on the house armed services committee is asking why it took so long for this cheating scandal to come to light and what is west point going to do about it >> the honor code is etched in stone right on west point's campus, a kacadet will not lie, steal or cheat the academy is trying to explain one of the largest violations of the code in its history. 73 cadets are accused of cheating in a final exam last may, all except one were in their first year at west point the exam in cam cllculus was gin remotely two have been cleared, four have left the academy, 49 have confessed to cheating, eight have denied being in involved. jackie spear who sits on the services committee wants answers

from the tax-funded academy. >> we're finding out from the media, and it would suggest a lack of transparency and it would suggest a cover-up. >> usa today reports the cadets involved all made the same mistake on the same part of the test most of the students who admitted to cheating are now part of a six-month rehabilitation program and will be on probation until they graduate in a statement, west point called the situation disappointing, adding the honors process is working as expected nbc news military analyst jacobs who teaches at west point says there is time for the cadets to learn from this. >> by the time they're graduated, they're going to be the best people we can find anywhere >> officials say the honor code was violated by a number of cadets. >> reporter: this is the largest cheating scandal at west point since 1976, when more than 150 upper classmen were expelled or resigned after cheating on an engineering exam

now more than 40 years later, another black eye for an institution that prides itself in instilling honor. >> i think anyone that doesn't recognize that this is such an important opportunity that they feel that it's okay to cheat, doesn't belong at the academy. >> steph, west point isn't by itself not the only school to be hit by a cheating scandal during the pandemic, right? >> reporter: no, it's not, hoda. a lot of students are taking their exams remotely and reportedly texas a&m is investigating cheating, university of missouri reportedly caught 150 students cheating the temptation of taking an exam at home or somewhere else unmonitored, proving perhaps a bit too much for some students back to you guys. >> stephanie gosk, thank you so much coming up, craig, you go one on one with adam silver. >> i talk to the nba commissioner and we talked about the risk they're taking as they kick off the new season tonight, and some other big changes

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we are back now with in-depth today, the national basketball association tips off its new season tonight and this time no bubble players will travel for games. so how does the league plan to safely manage this during the pandemic well, craig went straight to the commissioner, adam silver to find out what did he have to say? >> we spent some time chatting yesterday. of course, the nba finals just wrapped up over two months ago with the lebron james and lakers winning the title. now, they're ready to begin again. this time with a shortened 72-game season. back to the hard court tonight the nba launches its 75th season at a time when the country is still grappling with a surge in coronavirus cases and a struggling economy. >> commissioner, there's been a great deal of debate about restarting the nba season.

why now? >> in a weird way, it's almost why not? i think end of the day like so many other industries where we want to work by following the protocols we know have been effective we can do things in a safe, responsible way, and it's also, i mean, i'm not ashamed to say we're balancing economic factors as well, and not just for the players in this league, but for the literally tens of thousands of jobs that are dependent on the nba continuing >> the week was lauded, perhaps justifiably so, from and now there's no bubble. i mean, are you pretty much resigned to the fact that you are going to have players who test positive and you're going to have to make adjustments to the schedule as a result >> i accept that we had zero incidents of covid when we were in the bubble.

i think it had a real impact on many of the participants in terms of their families, their mental wellness. it's not easy being cooped up for months >> the league has extensive safety plans that include testing players, coaches and staff once, even twice a day >> what happens when there's an outbreak >> it depends how you define an outbreak if we have a singular player on a team who tests positive, we'll isolate that player. that player will go into some quarantine of some sort, obviously be treated if that's what's necessary as well if an outbreak means we have a spread, you know, to a full team, we may have to pause the season again. >> back in march, the nba and its players were criticized by some for getting covid tests before they were available to most of the public. >> the vaccine protocols are different. that's controlled 100% by the government there's no way that we would ever jump the line we've already been approached by a few different governmental agencies and that is a public

service message about the benefits of getting vaccinated. >> to that point, commissioner, there are large swaths of folks in this country that are very skeptical about this vaccine, especially in the african-american community do you think that nba players should get the vaccination publicly in an attempt to put folks at ease? >> i do. we are well aware that within the african-american community there's a group who are skeptical, you know, who are hesitant to get the vaccine. and i think that to the extent that they see people like them, you know, who are out getting the vaccine, i think that creates trust. >> as the league grapples with the public's perception of its players getting the covid vaccine, other changes are happening, too when it comes to the nba's policy on marijuana. the nba announced earlier this

month that it would stop random testing. why? >> we decided that, given all the things that were happening in society, given all the pressures and stress that players were under, that we didn't need to act as big brother right now. i think society's views around marijuana has changed to a certain extent i mean, it doesn't mean that we're not going to be talking to players who maybe aren't using marijuana casually, but feel more of a dependency on it because of the stress this year. and i would say the same thing about alcohol or any other substance. >> but for now, all eyes on the court with tip-off set for tonight and all teams dreaming of a title >> who do you like this year >> i like the refs >> i bet >> good answer >> i always enjoy adam silver. by the way, the marijuana policy, he did say that that could end up becoming a permanent policy as well i also asked him, as you know, a lot of the players and teams early on in the season in the

wake of george floyd being killed, a lot of players decided to use their platform to raise awareness about social justice issues and the commissioner said they will be permitted to do that this season as well and he expects to see more of that. >> we'll be watching to see how the season unfolds it will be interesting to see. it is now almost 7:45. ms. d you got a check of the weather? >> did anybody go out and see the christmas star last night? you might have missed it the first time it happened was in 1226. that's why it's been such a long, long time. you've got jupiter racing around the sun and saturn and basically they caught up to each other these are the two biggest planets in our solar system and they are so close together, they just look huge this isn't going to happen again until 2080 and then it happens in 2400. >> 2080?

>> yes, it's going to be a while. >> should i do regular weather, too? i got excited talking about space. wind alerts that are going to happen with this next big storm. we could see a blowing snow that could create blizzard-like conditions back behind the cold front that's moving in, tomorrow we could see wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour and watch what happens as we go into thursday the stronger winds will affect places like the great lakes, and we could see 60 mile per hour wind gusts here in new york city behind the storm system, too so it is going to be very windy, gusty and colder, so very blustery as we go into the christmas holiday. good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. we're still dealing with the dense fog in parts of the delta, the inland east bay and the north bay. napa visibility down to a quarter of a mile. be careful on your way to work once again. we are going to see some clearing today. temperatures reaching into the low 60s in a few spots and going

into tomorrow as well as thursday we're dry but rain will come in on christmas day and continue off and on throughout the weekend in through early next week. so look towards the southwestern sky right after sunset tonight, and you might be able to see the star >> again >> still tonight >> do you know who is cuter than you? >> nobody. coming up, grocery store workers and teachers up next for the covid vaccine. their reaction to the plan, the controversy surrounding it and a look inside their days on the front lines coming up after these messages and eating nothing but cheese till you find the perfect slice... even if everyone asks you... another burger truck? don't listen to them! that means cooking day and night until you get... [ ding ] you got paid! that means adding people to the payroll. hi mom. that means... best burger ever. intuit quickbooks helps small businesses

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we're just getting started we've got a busy tuesday morning ahead. vicky nguyen is going to try the buy online, pick up in store stat gee, bopis. she's going to see how reliable it will be for last-minute gifts. >> and carson has a fun story for gift giving season >> i got a chance to chat with a young group of musicians in chicago and their amazing teacher who is going well above and beyond to enrich their lives. we've got big surprises you're not going to want to miss. all coming up. but first a quick check of your local news ...home appliances and more until december 24th. this week only. save on last-minute gifts. at target. tonight, try pure zzzs all night. unlike other sleep aids, our extended release melatonin helps you sleep longer. and longer. zzzquil pure zzzs all night. fall asleep. stay asleep.

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good morning to you. i'm kris sanchez. it's 7:56. here are our top stories including a look at what's happening now. >> reporter: i'm jackie ward in san jose. as we know restaurants are limited to takeout services only. not even outdoor dining is allowed right now. that's because many health officials say that involves taking off your mask. taking off your mask can be a risky thing, they say, even if you're outdoors. one local politician, a san francisco city supervisor, is asking to help support those restaurants. good morning, everyone. i'm scott mcgrew. government economists have taken a look at our gdp and determined in the previous quarter it grew at a 33% annualized rate. that's a spectacular number, but it's really hard for us to work with because that was back when the coronavirus had seemed to

abated a bit. we're back in the situation where it's tough again. we want to get a look at our forecast because we may get a gift of christmas rain, kari. yeah, we're looking forward to that right now. we're just closed in with all of this fog in parts of the east bay and north bay. visibility has been very low near concord and parts of the delta. as we go through the forecast we are getting ready for the rain that moves in late on christmas day. kris? all right. thank you so much. more local news coming up in just a half hour and, of course, all the morning news wrapped up with a bow at 11:00 on midday news. have a great day. every year, we set out to do one thing:

help the world believe in holiday magic. and this year was harder than ever.

and yet, somehow, you all found a way to pull it off. it's not about the toys or the ornaments but about coming together. santa, santa, you're on mute! just wanted to say thanks. thanks for believing.

it's 8:00 on "today." coming up, already here. the new fears that the coronavirus mutation already sweeping the uk has already arrived in the u.s. >> i would not be surprised if it's already here. when we start to look for it, we're going to find it. >> as frontline workers like teachers and grocery store employees prepare to get the vaccine. >> you're among the first americans to receive it. >> we should be. >> what you need to know as cases rise here at home. plus -- merry bopis, with just three days until christmas, what you need to know about the best ways to buy online and pick-up in store.

>> great. they come right to the trunk. i don't have to get out of the car even. >> just ahead, how to still get your holiday shopping done on time. and good news. we will look back at all of the positive moments of 2020, from the health care heroes who never gave up -- [ cheers ] >> one thing that's abundantly clear, these are heroes. >> to the reunions we've watched on repeat. >> oh, my god. i missed you so much. >> we'll remember the stories that made us smile, today, tuesday, december 22, 2020. >> turning 20 in 2020! >> hey, "today" show, help us put a smile on my friend's sad face. we love you, steph. stay strong! ♪ merry christmas ♪ happy holiday >> hello. i want to give a special shoutout to all the hospital

heroes here at union memorial hospital in baltimore, maryland. >> all: happy holidays! >> celebrating sylvia's 8th birthday here! >> whew! happy birthday, sweet girl! welcome back to "today." so happy you're with us. it is a tuesday morning. savannah is taking time off for the holidays. craig melvin back in his seat. happy to have you back. it's been a difficult time, but, boy, we're happy to see your smiling face in the studio. >> so good to be back sitting next to you. especially this week. christmas is two days away. right? >> yep. >> we've been talking about a lot of us are going to be apart from our extended families over the holidays, so tomorrow on "today," we've got new ideas for how you can connect with your families and friends online. we're talking about ideas beyond the basic video chat. >> stephanie ruhle has great ideas for new traditions that you can create online, from, how about a family dance party? maybe learning how to make a

simple cocktail together. we have some cool ideas i think you'll like. not too late to get involved with our season of giving toy drive. >> we popped up the qr code on the bottom of your screen. this one is for toys for tots, a group delivering gifts and messages of hope to kids around the country this holiday season. >> all you have to do is scan the qr code with your smartphone, click the notification, go to our website and you'll learn about new ways that you can help. we have a busy morning. let's get straight to the snus. >> the united states has reached another grim milestone, surpassing 18 million cases of covid-19, with worrisome developments ahead. health officials blaming much of the recent spike on that thanksgiving travel. yet now millions of americans are once again boarding planes for the holidays and this time a highly contagious mutation of the coronavirus is spreading quickly through the united kingdom, and may already be in this country. >> given the travel throughout

the world, i would not be surprised if it's already here. when we start to look for it, we're going to find it. >> experts believe the vaccines how being distributed, though, do offer protection against this new virus strain. meantime, americans dealing with the economic impact of the pandemic have some relief on the horizon. congress overnight approving a $900 billion package that includes money for jobless benefits and direct payments to many americans that could begin as early as next week. >> as the vaccine rollout proceeds, more details about who will be next in line to receive inoculations after health care workers. the next group should include seniors, along with teachers and grocery store employees, who may be among those at highest risk for exposure. nbc's erin mclaughlin has more. >> a cdc panel has recognized grocery store workers and teachers as essential frontlin workers, a designation that

includes approximately 30 million americans. for those working hard in america's classrooms and shopping aisles, the announcement brings much-needed relief. grocery store workers have seen us through the darkest days of the pandemic. they ensure we have access to life's essentials. >> it's been really scary knowing that every day we're at the front line there being exposed. >> reporter: a cdc panel recommends these workers will be among those next in line to receive a covid vaccine. what does the vaccine mean to you? >> it's important. we are there every day. it's not only going to keep us safe, it's not only going to keep our families safe. >> you're among the first americans to receive it. >> we should be. >> reporter: she says three of her co-workers at ralph's have gotten sick. one had to be put into a medically induced coma. koesh restores made more dangerous by customers who refuse to follow the rules. >> you're an idiot! >> reporter: plexiglas barriers

and socially distanced lines have become standard, but researchers say the safeguards can only do so much. one person's cough potentially spreads particles several aisles over. the union says they have had at least 109 deaths. >> one store in southern california, 21 grocery workers were infected, but in seattle we had one store where ten grocery workers were infected. in one case we've had a supervisor at one of our stores in seattle that actually died from covid. >> reporter: teachers will be among the next to get the vaccine. this teacher lost a colleague to covid. >> i certainly hope that prioritizing teachers for the vaccine is a bit of a signal of our society showing the value that educators do hold. >> reporter: distribution details are still being worked out. until then, frontline workers can only wait and worry.

>> just sitting there like sitting ducks, what's going to happen next. who is going to be next? when i go home and i'm going to work, i'm thinking am i bringing it home? >> reporter: according to the union president, in some cases they're going to have pharmacies inside the store distribute the vaccine to grocery store employees. they're pushing for stores to give employees time off to get vaccinated and rushing for vaccines to be offered free of charge. they're also urging the public to make fewer trips to the store. hoda. >> all right, erin mclaughlin, thank you. athletes and visitors at the tokyo olympic village will notice something missing from the buses, drivers. toyota putting the final touches on self-driving buses for the games. they run automatically on preset routes. the vehicles are also designed to stop if a pedestrian suddenly tries to cross the road. human staff members will be keeping an eye on all things from a central command center. what could possibly go wrong?

>> i don't know. but i'm kind of looking forward to that. >> how about a boost? >> i've got you. we all know it's been a tough year, especially for young people. so when it came to cheering up his students, one school principal just had to elf himself. north carolina principal terry vaughn turned himself into an elf on a shelf. the kids didn't know where he would be showing up, what kind of mischief he would be getting into. he transformed himself into buddy the elf. principal vaughn says his own comfort level goes by the wayside. all he wants to do is put smiles on the faces of these kids. >> it's been really cool this year to see educators keep kids engaged in unique ways. >> yeah. >> that's a good one. coming up next, a catch phrase, really a catch phrase we've been trying to make happen forever, bopis. >> buy online, pick up in store. >> bopis. it's catching on. >> it is.

>> you made it a thing, bopis. it's catching on. it's sweeping the nation. >> all right, we will be right back with bopis. vicky nguyen will be back with the details. you'll want to see which retailers actually beat our expectations. ornaments create time to hang. gingerbread builds tradition. a string of lights sparks family ties. a last-minute gift makes a lasting impression. a tray carries your heritage. and an ending means a new beginning. ow! so, you think santa will like these red and green m&m's? i don't know! i never met the guy! whaaaaa! he does exist! they do exist! uhm... santa?

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hey, craig and hoda. it is everyone's favorite "b" word of the shopping system, bopis, buy online, pick up in store. this morning we're talking about its close cousin, curbside pickup. more stores are offering this service as a way to get you in and out and get you what you need without having to head into a crowded store. when we tried it out, it wasn't always smooth sailing. this morning we're going to show you what to expect so there are no last-minute surprises when you're out getting those gifts. the clock is ticking to get those christmas gifts under the tree in time. this year, avoid big crowds and long lines with bopis, buy online, pick up in store. shop from wherever you want, then swing by the store, get your stuff, and go. this year retailers from department stores to pet shops, even home improvement and drug stores staffing up and pivoting to provide bopis to shoppers. >> so what can we expect?

i have a list of last-minute items that i want to get but it's too close to christmas, i don't want to risk shipping delays and i definitely don't want to pay an arm and leg for shipping. i can either shop online with my computer, or so many stores have apps these days that make it really easy to shop. i'm going to shop through my phone. i'm going to choose order pickup, which is picking it up inside the store, or even better, drive up, they bring it out to my car. first up, best buy for toys. best buy is providing an extra four hours to customers who want curbside pickup, two hours before the store opens and two hours after it closes. you pull up, check in and sit tight. love it. i arrive two hours before the store opens. >> i just need to click on this link to tell them that i am here. it's supposed to take ten minutes or less. our order was out in about 15. >> got all my toys, thank you! >> still on my list, clothes. i'm at walmart and i see a big

pickup sign over there, so i think that's where we get our curbside pickup. when i pull up, they know i'm there by tracking my phone's gps. they said we know you're here, it has a spot for me to enter my shopping spot and my car color, which is black. second later, it's great, they come right to the trunk. i don't have to get out of the car even. off to the next destination for some women's sweaters. target, thanks to gps again, they know i'm here and the employee walks up with my order as i'm parking. that was super fast, super easy. i just want to make and check sure i got everything. something you want to do at every store before you drive up, double-check your items and so far, no mistakes from any of the stores. don't forget about your four-legged family members. we're getting food and pet toys. we're pulling up to petsmart. i got an idea that we are good to go, but the bad news is they told me four of my nine items are not available.

i check in anyway. we're on it. hang in the car and we'll bring your order out shortly. after three successful pickups, we hit our first hiccup. it's been half an hour since i checked in. no sign of any delivery from petsmart so i'm going to mask up, and unfortunately i've got to go inside and see what's going on. inside the store, an employee told me the app doesn't work to let them know i've arrived. it turns out my order was sitting there waiting for me but the app doesn't notify them. he said i should have called the phone number. if you're waiting for what seems like too long, call or go inside. in a statement, petsmart says it has faced challenges due to irregular traffic and demand due to covid and winter weather impacts, adding we are always seeking to improve. i want to get last-minute stocking stuffers. walgreens offers bopis in as little as 30 minutes but that wasn't my experience. it's been over an hour and i'm going to run in and see if i can pick it up now.

turns out they hadn't started gathering my items. they said their system has been slow today, so pro tip, don't do this if you're in a big hurry. i would wait until you get the notification your order is ready before you head out to the store. they had to make a few substitutions, but ultimately i got everything i needed. in a statement walgreens points to an unprecedented holiday season and says they've been able to fill most orders in as little as 30 minutes. we hit a few speed bumps before calling it a wrap on holiday shopping 2020. nbc news did donate all of the clothes and toys that we bought to iris house in harlem and donated the pet supplies over to save a pet animal rescue on long island. >> that's great. really quickly, vicky, is there any way to do all of this with smaller businesses that don't have their own apps, perhaps?

>> yeah, you know, craig, the national retail federation says a lot of small businesses are stepping up as well. they may not have the app as you mentioned, but you can always call and do it the old-fashioned way. place your order over the phone and then call when you get there. most small businesses are more than happy to send someone out with your order. >> all right. that was great. >> that was pretty impressive. i learned a lot. >> thank you, vicky. petsmart too, right. it feels like another good time for a check of the weather. what are you looking at? >> we are going to see a bit of a warmup, especially through the center of the country as we go into this afternoon. 64 degrees for a high in kansas city. that's 26 degrees above average. rapid city, 60 degrees. even minneapolis, saint paul in the lower 40s. temperatures will be above anchl today. the warmer air moves to the east as we go into wednesday. cincinnati 56, 50 in detroit. then eventually it will make its way to the east coast, which is why the next big storm system

moving in is going to produce mostly rain on the front side and then the colder temperatures allow for the snow on the back side. indianapolis only 22 degrees for a high on christmas day. same goes for cleveland with a high of 22. new york we go from 59 on thursday to 31 on saturday. >> good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. still very low visibility, dense fog moving through the east bay, as well as the north bay while we've seen some clouds moving through the south bay. visibility there is pretty good. we are going to see some clearing in spots, and temperatures reaching up to 60 degrees. we'll do it all over again tomorrow. cold morning with fog and then some clearing for the afternoon. we are getting ready for some rain. that's set to move in late on christmas day. and off and on showers continue through the weekend. and if you're heading out, don't forget to check out our sirius xm channel 108. >> dylan, all right. carson daly time. our favorite time of the day.

hit it! >> couldn't get to covid cuts. this whole thing is a disaster. >> did you cut that yourself? >> yeah. needed a little help. "pop start." our friend, comedian former "snl" writer checked into rehab after decades' long battle with an addiction. sheinelle jones has all the details. >> i don't drink, which is -- not what you're supposed to do when you're irish. >> reporter: this morning "people" magazine confirming that comedian john mulaney is seeking treatment after a relapse following a decades' long battle with addiction. >> i used to drink and then i drank too much and i had to stop. that surprises a lot of audiences because i don't look like someone who used to do anything. >> mulaney was a writer on "saturday night live," helping create the iconic stefhan character, with a series of successful stand-up specials. >> i'm 35, but i'm still like,

hey, when am i going to get big and strong? this is it, this is it! it's just going to be this. i'm like an iphone, it's going to be worse versions of this every year, plus i get super hot in the middle of the afternoon for no reason. >> he's talked openly about his past struggles, telling esquire magazine in 2019 i drank for attention. i was really outgoing and then at 12, i wasn't.asasn't. i didn't know how to act was hilarious again. coming as a surprise to many fans and friends who see the comic as a steady presence in a chaotic industry mulaney talking on jimmy kimmel recently about how a lack of routine was making him stir crazy during the pandemic. >> during quarantine i was, like, why am i going totally crazy, and why am i, like, suddenly like telling my own wife my accomplishments?

you know, like i had a comedy central presents when i was 22 years old. >> mulaney saying that he so badly needed structure during the pandemic that he reached out to his good friend, seth meyers, and started working as a writer on his show. we reached out to mulaney's rep and haven't heard back we wish john nothing but the best and good for him to have the courage to reach out and get help and he's getting it now we're pulling for you. next up, tiger woods, the golf superstar is the subject of a new hbo documentary. it's called "tiger" and it features revealing interviews and chronicling his rise, dramatic fall and epic comeback. this morning we have the exclusive first look at the trailer. >> tiger was going to be this bridge between all the different races and tribes of humanity >> how are you handling all the adulation? >> i honestly don't feel comfortable with it. >> breaking news that will rock the world of sports. >> tiger built himself up to be more than he was. >> i have made you question who

i am and how i have done the things i did >> he got clean, he got healthy, he crawls out of that hole it's just the comeback of all comebacks. >> do not underestimate tiger woods. >> there you go. >> wow. >> part one of "tiger" premieres on hbo january 10th. you'll see part two january 17th next up, we've got another look at a documentary coming out in 2021 called the beatles "get back". pete jackson has been combing through over 50 hours of never-before-seen footage of their recording "let it be". he says the documentary will be the ultimate fly on the wall experience instead of putting out a trailer he just wanted to show off a sampling of some of the rare footage. take a look. ♪ get back

♪ get back to where you once belonged ♪ ♪ get back ♪ get back ♪ get back to where you once belonged ♪ ♪ get back >> i mean -- >> fun >> i mean, come on. >> i can't believe it's taken 50 years to see it. >> he got the footage and peter says that, you know, i was sitting around cutting it and he wanted to just put out something that would give the spirit he couldn't believe the footage he was seeing. they're so young and it really shows the vibes. everybody is getting along and they're having a agreed time recording. he seemed excited by it. we don't get the film until 2021. finally, coldplay has released a new album "flags" it's an early christmas stocking stuffer for you coldplay fans. ♪ breathe like everyone else

♪ there will be no flags ♪ i just want to be myself >> there you go. song all about you you do you >> you do you. i just had an image of him on the plaza. do you remember? he rocked it every time i look out there, i can't wait. >> wasn't it raining >> i just remember it was packed still ahead, a music teacher who wouldn't give up on her students even after their school band program was canceled. carson catches up with and he brings a huge surprise from their idol i can't wait to see that coming up right after this.

good morning to you. 8:26. i'm marcus washington. firefighters are investigating an early morning fire at a san jose office complex. it started around 2:00 this morning on forest avenue between vascum and interstate 880. firefighters were returning from another call when they noticed the flames and smoke. the cause still under investigation but some of the flames were coming from some gas lines there, some ruptured gas lines. no one was injured. let's get a look at the forecast for you. kari hall has been tracking that for us. >> we started out with some fog in some of the east bay and north bay valleys but as we take

a live look outside in san jose, the clouds are starting to part. we'll get some sunshine later today. highs up to 60 degrees. and another cold morning tomorrow with some patchy dense fog and temperatures reaching into the upper 50s. as we get closer to the weekend, we're getting ready for rain. on christmas day it moves in during the afternoon into the evening. and we'll see some off and on showers in the forecast into the weekend as well as early next week while san francisco will see those high temperatures in the upper 50s over the next few days. marcus? thanks, kari. we'll have another local news update coming up in about 30 minutes. i'll see you back here then.

8:30 now on this tuesday morning. it is the 22nd of december, 2020 boys and girls, that is our rockefeller center christmas tree look at it, look at it we treasure every last minute of that >> whose job is it to water the tree at the end of the night

that's my job at my house. who gets in there and sees what the water level is >> and you saw the tree right next to it, you can see the qr code, just a reminder we have teamed up with toys for fots, an organization that's been bringing joy to kids for more than 70 kids the qr code is just an easy way to donate. you click on it and obviously it takes you to our website ahead in the third hour we are also going to tell you about a great organization that is helping kids all year-round, not just this season there you see the crowd gathered in miami we have a special surprise you are not going to want to miss. also coming up this half hour on our season of giving series, another group bringing joy to kids. we're going to introduce you to a dedicated music teacher and the rising stars in her class and we're going to top that off with a big surprise for them don't miss that. and then 2020 has been a tough year we keep saying that, no doubt. but there have been some real positive moments so how about this?

how about if we look back at some of them the most uplifting moments that we've seen on our show this year. >> really looking forward to that in just a few minutes also coming up in just a few minutes, on the third hour of today, our guy, harry smith, introducing us to a truly remarkable man, a former race car driver who was paralyzed in a crash. how he's still finding ways to push himself and reach new heights, proving not a whole heck of a lot can stand in that guy's way. we'll have that for you coming up in the third hour. tomorrow on "today," we begin a special series that will get you into the holiday spirit if you're not there already. we do this every year. >> aww. >> love it, too. it's choir week on "today" and we're going to begin with some of our favorite new york city performers, the talented new york city children's chorus. >> we're really looking forward to that one. and now one more check of the weather. >> let's take a look at what is going on as we get into the christmas spirit, christmas eve,

we are going to see some snow. it's a white christmas for areas like ohio, back through eastern tennessee, eastern kentucky, heavy rain on the eastern side of that. that's where we do have to deal with the melting snow as well. so we could end up with some flooding potential on christmas day, we are going to see some of that colder air work into the great lakes and upstate new york, western pennsylvania that's where we'll see your snow falling on christmas day also pacific northwest will get their next storm that could produce snow and still pretty >> good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. let's take a look at our forecast for today. it's cold right now. some spots will make it up to 60 degrees. it's going to be chilly again today. we're going to see some more of these temperatures in the upper 50s and morning starts in the upper 30s. as we get closer to christmas, we're getting ready for some rain. it moves in christmas afternoon and we'll see some off and on

showers for the weekend as our temperatures cool off and san francisco will see highs in the upper 50s. and that's your latest forecast. hoda? >> a that's your latest forecast. coming up next, who else but carson could get a two-time grammy winner involved in a surprise for some young music students we can't wait to show you the moment these rising stars get to

now now to more of our season of giving series, and carson has a story this morning of a teacher who really goes above and beyond to bring music and harmony to the lives of her students. >> music can be such a powerful force and for the kids in this chicago band program it's been life-changing. i had a chance to surprise them with one of their biggest music idols and a gift that will hopefully keep on giving ♪

for students in chicago's east garfield park, these are instruments of change. ♪ >> they say music is a source of comfort, expression and motivation, a powerful force in their lives, one they almost didn't have. when annie palomino's band program was eliminated because of budget cuts, she couldn't quit on her kids. >> once you decide that a program is needed in a community, the instinct was just to commit to it. >> that's why you're a hero. it was then she started bandwidth, a nonprofit that provides free music education to students and loans them valuable instruments they may not be able to afford. >> many are living below the poverty line and a lot of our students are dealing with trauma unfortunately, chicago does see a lot of gun violence and certainly in east garfield park it's all too familiar to them. and music helps them.

>> music is therapy. therapeutic across the board, no matter what you're up against. during my own mental health exploration in my past, i realized that i was such an anxious kid and i look back now and i realize it was always music. music was my magic carpet ride >> we're going to go from the beginning. >> i'm a firm believer that every child deserves a music education, for all of the proven emotional and intellectual benefits that it helps to develop. it helps them navigate their path in life so for those kids, music is an anchor, music is a life raft. >> i got up with bandwidth's rising stars. >> look it, i've got a guitar. i see cymbals, i see a keyboard. i'm so excited to be here. why do you love music? >> music lets me express myself and be whoever i want to be. >> it helped me cope with being in the house and not being able to go anywhere, since i'm a social person. >> playing with a group of

people, it just teaches you that everybody has a chance and that everybody is encouraging everyone to keep going. >> none of the opportunities i have would even be here without bandwidth. >> martel, what are some of your goals after high school? >> i see myself as a full-time drummer. i have some people i want to play behind. jay cole is one of them. h.e.r. is one of them. >> reporter: h.e.r. is a breakout r&b star, who has earned two grammys and a huge fan base at bandwidth. >> why do you look up to her >> i love her music. she always keeps me motivated. >> i know her. she's one of my favorite artists. i told her about all of you guys and all the great work you're doing and she wanted to say hello to you so h.e.r., if you could pop on the zoom >> hey, everyone what's up, everyone? i'm just blown away by your stories of how music has changed

your life and how much you love music. martel, one day i promise we'll get to jam >> oh, that's great. these are some of your biggest fans they all look to up to you so much what would you like to say to them all what is your advice? >> believe in yourself nothing is out of your reach always, always let your heart and passion for music drive you. >> because it's the holidays and season of giving, we have a little holiday surprise for everybody. our friends at fender is giving every single one of you your very own acoustic guitar [ applause ] >> they're also giving you a one-year subscription to something called fender play, which is awesome it's going to help you practice. you are halfway down rock n roll street. >> i love it and i'm so grateful. >> thank you, thank you, thank you! >> merry christmas, stay safe. >> let's go. >> love it, carson >> right after that, that kid

smashed that guitar. very rock n roll great program. music is the ultimate healer and we were glad to help i want to thank my friendly h.e.r. for jumping on the zoom and of course fender. >> i remember h.e.r. when she came here as like a little kid and she's paying it forward. that's awesome. >> thank you, carson, thank you, fender coming up next, we're going to do a little bit more of what you just saw we are going to reflect on some of our most uplifting moments here at the "today" show during 2020 we're going to do it to remind ourselves it certainly wasn't all bad, from teachers going the extra mile for their students to the lovebirds who showed a zoom wedding can be just as special as a tra

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was not the year that anyone was expecting. >> yeah, but through it all, the tough times that we had, we watched as our country came together to tannstand tall and the challenges from the frontline workers who never gave up and the strangers lending a helping hand. >> this morning we are reflecting on the moments that opened our eyes and hearts. >> we are separated, but together in our hearts. >> it's great to see your face. >> it's been really encouraging, we've seen a lot of people really stepping up, pitching in, doing more than their share. >> i feel god laid this on my heart to come and help on the front lines as an emergency room provider. >> one thing that has become abundantly clear, these are heroes. >> this goes out to all those doing all they can to make life a little bit better. >> ♪ lean on me ♪ when you're not strong ♪ i'll help you carry on

>> this family has been sacrificing on the front lines >> my gosh >> it's a story that should give all of us an incredible amount of hope. >> 1,000 nurses from out of town are staying just down the street from our studio. >> we have a sausage mac and cheese. >> i haven't had a hot meal in 15 days. it was amazing. >> every time we hear about something being canceled, we're like, i wish i could do something. north salem tigers, i want them to hear you in manhattan can you all make some noise? [ horns >> instead of the commencement speeches they would not get to hear, their parents wrote their own. >> i can't believe this time has already come. >> you have exceeded all of our expectations and we know you are not done >> this cap is not being given to you, you earned it. >> did you know that she also happens to be an ordained minister >> m hi, mel. should we do it.

>> let's do it >> i now pronounce you husband and wife >> so many of us are adjusting to this new normal. >> oh, my goodness oh, i love you >> it really is hard to believe that all five of us have not been together in person for four months and counting. >> carson, carson! >> i don't think we'll ever take it for granted again. >> no. >> we recognize what is so precious, and what is precious is people. >> oh, my god. i missed you so much >> all this additional time has been such a joy for me i always say, god, thanks for not letting me miss this and i don't think we've ever paused like this >> during these challenging times, our appreciation for teachers has never been greater. >> i bet you miss your students. >> i miss them and i know they miss me. >> a brand new book. >> who here misses mr. hines raise your hand.

>> well, mr. hines, we have a little surprise for you. >> thank you >> yes, yes. >> the remote learning struggle is real. >> we have a problem i miss my students >> i don't know if you realize the light you're shining during this time, how much people need what you're doing. >> just thanks to all the teachers out there who are going the extra mile >> we have heard all about the work you have been doing to give back to your community this is yours, my friend [ cheers and applause >> let's show him what's inside. >> oh, my gosh >> there's a hunger problem in this country we want to step up in a way we've never done before. >> you've had almost a quarter of a million cars. you're doing god's work. >> open the door more than 15,000 meals inside this truck

yeah, this is 6,000 pounds of food >> let's open them up, boys. >> this is 20,000 meals that will go on tables for people here that are hungry at this time of year, during this pandemic, it means the world to us. >> thanks to you, more than $2 million was raised, 20 million meals for the nation's hungry. >> we are teaming up with toys for tots to brighten the holiday season. >> the need is greater than it's ever been. >> we have a surprise for you. we are donating 200,000 toys. >> i mean, that's an amazing donation. >> it's a momentum days. >> much needed help in the pandemic now starting to arrive. >> the first americans are getting their covid-19 shots today. >> the vaccines are right now arriving at hospitals. >> how do you feel >> the first night of a little bit of relief during this entire pandemic. >> we've definitely been battling this as health care workers, as a team knowing there's a vaccine, it's a very optimistic feeling and it leaves me hopeful for the future. >> i mean, you know, mr. rodgers

always said look for the helpers. i kept looking at that piece going, there they are, full of teachers and health care workers and just regular people. >> you know, this was not the year anyone expected and we've had to cover so much death, doom and destruction, but to your point, seeing our fellow americans step up in such huge ways time and time again, that's the best way to end 2020. >> we needed it. >> yes >> we did. all right, guys, we're going to christmas eve... everybody spends the night at the house. i love christmas, i always did. it's loud, it's family being together. a lot of food, music, people, hugs. that's a perfect christmas. ♪

estamos de regreso morning. dylan, might be a great time to celebrate birthdays for little ones. >> yes, we are changing it up a little bit this time around. we're celebrating some first birthdays and i'm sure they will love the smucker's jelly soon enough let us start with a happy first

birthday to kyla smith of jacksonville, florida. her new favorite chant is ho, ho, just in time for christmas theodore kiss ling is from westerville, ohio, and his first real world was actually "dog". happy 1st birthday to landon smith. he's a future quarterback for the seattle seahawks that works out good. lainey is from omaha, nebraska, if you want her on your good side, give her food. she loves to eat we are going to say hello to emerson springer once you get him walking, emerson refuses to slow down and last but certainly not least, we have reagan mccormick of nashville, tennessee. this little fighter is celebrating her 1st birthday and reagan spent 109 days in the nicu before going home to her mom, dad and big goldendoodle brother, murphy. happy birthday if you would like us to

celebrate your little one's first birthday, let us know. >> thank you coming up, guys, on "hoda & jenna," our holiday staycation guide. we're going to help you so you're not bored on your winter break. >> any guest hosts >> i don't know who it is. they're doing funny things here. we'll see who it will be. >> coming up in just a few minutes, it's tune-up tuesday for your home. we're going to help you get ready for winter and we're going to also share an expert tip that could make shoveling snow a little easier. >> can we turn off the cameras outside? we actually have people on our plaza yes, there are people on the plaza! it happens every now and then. >> first, your local news and some weather >> go check out the tree

good morning to you. 8:56. i'm marcus washington. a live look at sfo. still no official change in strategy for testing arrival passengers from the uk. but new york, it's already taking action. now requiring paermgs arriving from the uk to test negative before they board. many european nations have

already banned uk travelers due to a new faster spreading coronavirus strand. pfizer and moderna's vaccines should work against it and there's no solid evidence it has reached the u.s. just yet. more bay area getting its share of the first batch of moderna's vaccine. that includes nearly 40,000 doses arriving today in santa clara. we'll follow more on the counties receiving their vaccine shipments. we'll have more on that at midday. i'll see you then. to all the businesses that helped us

make it through 2020... thank you for going the extra mile... and for the extra pump of caramel. thank you for the good food... and the good karma. thank you for all the deliveries... especially this one. you've reminded us that no matter what, we can always find a way to bounce forward. so thank you, to our customers and to businesses everywhere, from all of us at comcast business.

live from studio 1ar in rockefeller plaza, this is the third hour of "today." >> good morning and welcome to the "3rd hour today" on this tuesday, december 22nd. time is flying. i'm shin 'einelle with craig an dylan. al is off. >> only another hour to work in this year. >> actually another 59 minutes, but i'm here and present in the moment. tell you what you have for the next 59 minutes coming up. first of all, harry smith. we love harry smith. honestly, not just saying this, one of my favorite people on the