bridge. struck a roller coaster of emotions this week. but we made it through. i think this is the time to reflect on loved ones and also the joy you have in your life. >> that's right. of course everybody is hugging her kids a little bit more gunman walked in unobstructed, targeted four classrooms and was not stopped for more than an hour. >> could anybody have gotten there sooner? you got to understand. small town. >> this morning, grief turns to anger. tragedy upon tragedy, the husband of one of the hero

teachers who lost her life collapses at the funeral home and dies. and the nra convenes its national conference today hours away in houston with top republicans expected, including former president trump. we'll have complete coverage. breaking overnight. new attacks. russia pounding more targets against eastern ukraine. a top official there now pleading for more weapons from the west. richard engel on the front lines this morning with the civilians helping lead the resistance. stranded. thousands of passengers awaiting rescue this morning after a massive fire erupt on a docked carnival cruise shipment on the mac we have the very latest. last word, closing arguments that began this morning. at the johnny depp, amber heard trial. after six weeks of stunning testimony, a live report from the courthouse straight ahead. those stories plus the ultimate good fellow. >> i like going this way.

better than waiting in line. make tributes pouring in for legendary actor ray leota. his life and his career defining role. and holiday rush. the memorial day weekend it away well underway. what you can expect on the road, in the air, and al's forecast for the unofficial start of summer today. friday, may 27th, 2022. >> from nbc news, this is today with savannah guthrie. from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza. >> hello everybody, good morning. it is 7:00 am on the morning. craig is here. we are getting that jump start on the holiday weekend. >> the unofficial start of summer is upon us. >> according to aaa, more than 39 million people going to take to the roads and skies this weekend. as you can see from this look in l.a., a lot of them are

already getting started this morning. >> that rush coming amid another record high in gas prices. the national average is a lot higher in california. we've got a full stack of the dribble and weather forecast. >> but first the later story. the latest out of uvalde, texas. the timing of the police response, some parents asking why they didn't act more quickly, and why the school was unlocked. >> eight has been a teacher who died of early tragedy, he sadly died yesterday. >> we have it all covered this morning. we will start with morgan, who was in uvalde for us. morgan, good morning to you. >> reporter: savanna, good morning, another tough morning here in uvalde with authority shifting to stories about what happened and when when the gun shots rang out here inside robb elementary school. this is coming from parents here saying police were not

acting fast enough when that gun man walked inside and opened fire. now when the authorities tried to provide clarity with answers, there are only new questions being raised about why it took so long to kill that shooter. this morning, growing confusion and outrage about why it took so long to kick out that lone gunman. >> we are supposed to have those facts and have us answers. we are ready now. >> please say it took an hour from the first 911 call to stop the massacre. in that time, 19 children and two teachers were killed in more classrooms. >> he said it was time to die, i was hiding hard, and trying to not talk. >> reporter: one fourth-grader hid under a table, terrified that if the gunmen barged in. >> the cop said yell help if you need help, and they got one of the persons in my class that said help.

the guy overheard, and he came and shot her and then the cop came in. >> reporter: safety officials are now backtracking, saying there was no school officer on campus. was there a school officer on campus, and were they armed? because that is what we have been told. >> no. no. there was not an officer readily available and armed. >> reporter: saying that the 18- year-old seen here armed with an ar style rifle entered the building and what appeared to be an unlocked door. >> they went into the school and were not confronted by anybody. >> authorities also verifying their timeline. he then fired at two people outside a funeral home across the street. before climbing the fence to

robb elementary. at 11:30, the first 911 call came in. 10 minutes later, the suspect entered the school. by living: 44, the first officers arrived. the suspect is blocking himself inside a classroom, firing numerous rounds. officials say those first responding officers couldn't get inside and called for backup. the tactical team didn't arrive until an hour later. that's when officers were finally able to open the door using keys from the principal, and took down the gunmen. outside the school, video now emerging showing frantic onlookers urging officers to go in. apparently, they were telling the wall street journal that she was handcuffed by u.s. marshals outside the school so that they deny that claim. the agency saying the statement that our deputy marshals made the order at peace. as investigator continued to search for emotive and families grieve. >> most of them were my friends. >> reporter: jaden perez were inside the school when they

heard gunshots. the fourth-grader is taking time to honor his classmates. >> you wrote that they deserve better on their cross. is there anything you want the world to hear? >> stay together. >> reporter: and this morning we have reached out to authorities about that young boys account of police asking students to ask for help. but we have yet to hear back. savanna? this decision by police, they is our waiting for units to arrive. whether that was 40 minutes or an hour, time that elapsed, is that common practice? does that deviate from police protocol and responding to mass shootings? >> yesterday, a protocol did shift in this specific instance. >> reporter: we were told that for years now it has been protocol for officers to immediately engage the threat. especially when there is a shooter inside the school. this typically goes to a response time of just about five minutes of engaging the suspect in school shootings and

this change happened after columbine when police officers waited an hour before going inside that high school to engage the suspect with a special s.w.a.t. team. in the meantime, authorities are trying to piece together the timeline. there will no doubt be no questions raised about why this took place here. at robb elementary. savanna? >> a lot of parents have good questions, morgan. thank you very much. >> parents in uvalde are showing unwavering support for those who lost loved ones. that support is important right now. just 48 hours after she died protecting her students, her husband suddenly died. we have more on that. this has been tough. greg, good morning, words don't even scratch the surface.

joan herman garcia, married for 24 years. they were also high school sweethearts and had four beautiful children together. they show new york times that they died of a heart attack. her road to your church irma garcia lost her life defending her students from the mesh shooter. now her family is facing even more heartbreak. joe garcia, her husband of 24 years, died just 48 hours later. his nephew john martin is telling nbc news that he claps home shortly after delivering flowers out of a memorial. they tried chest compression, but it didn't work. martinez tweeting that the father of four passed away due to grief. >> it was such a close family. it was such a close family. you could tell that there was so much trust between the parents. he was a wonderful young man. wonderful. >> reporter: ida hernandez comforting students healing by this memorial.

not only did they lose -- but also checking his eras. one of the 19 kids killed in robb elementary. here in uvalde, signs of support everywhere. shared between locals and parishioners, all the way to san antonio. >> reporter: what brought you here in the midst of this horrendous tragedy? >> to offer support, comfort, prayer. and our services, really. a helping hand. >> reporter: counseling for residents who need help, gestures big and small. as well as to tackle uncomfortable questions. what the grandmother of softball loving eliana torres who died at the age of 10. >> where was my baby when this monster -- >> reporter: the energetic girl was described as everybody's little princess, and is not coming home. they need help healing.

>> my heart has a big hole. >> reporter: that description characterizes how so many families here in uvalde are feeling today. there was a gofundme account, guys of children who survive the initial target of 10,000 dollars. that was the target. they were approaching $2 million in donations coming in all across the country. >> that is hard to imagine. thank you. >> this massacre has sparked renewed conversations and debates surrounding guns in america. and this morning, the national rifle association is taking mounting criticism for opening its annual convention in the state of texas just hours away from the scene, and just days after the shooting. where that event is taking, halle, good morning.

>> hi, savanna. good morning. the texas governor who was supposed to speak here in person will be in uvalde instead. but here in houston, they are bracing for protest outside this convention center with gun reform advocates set to bring their message to the doorstep of the nra. democrats who are running for governor here, he said those demonstrations have emotions running very hot, and a heavy police presence expected. the nation's most powerful gun owners group this morning is facing backlash as the national rifle association kicks off its annual convention today in houston. some 300 miles were 19 children and two teachers were murdered at the hand of the gunmen. some nra convention attendees say that they are not concerned. >> people on their opinion, just because this happens. >> reporter: headlining the convention? former president donald trump following what he calls an important address. protocols of firearms will be

bent. texas governor greg abbott was initially supposed to attend. but overnigh, his spokesperson told nbc news that he will instead return to uvalde for a news conference and they had a prerecorded video conference. other republicans like senator ted cruz who, from texas, are expected to speak. earlier press by sky news on his opposition to gun laws. >> if you want to stop violent crime, the proposal that the democrats have? none of this would've stopped it. >> i really think that is what many people around the world just -- they cannot fathom, why only in america? why is this american exceptionalism so awful? >> i'm sorry you think american exceptionalism is awful. you've got your political agenda. god love you. >> reporter: congressman dan crenshaw pulled out of the event . senate republican leader mitch mcconnell said he

encouraged them to find common ground with democrats on good policy. he tells cnn he is hopeful that you can come up with a bipartisan solution that is directly related to the facts of the massacre. in a statement, the nra said that they will reflect on events, pledge the victims, and redouble on their commitment to making school secure. in texas, nra riddick say that their message to the group is simple. >> get out of houston. don't look back. >> reporter: as for the city of houston, the democratic mayor here said that you did not have a legal right to try to cancel the convention. we are also looking ahead at what is happening later this weekend. an nra concert, and already we see musicians dropping out. especially with greenwood, and he is canceling out of those morning the lies lost in uvalde. he decided it would be disrespectful and hurtful if you were to perform.

>> think you, halle. the war in ukraine, amid a near constant onslaught. everyday citizens are stuck out there. chief correspondent has been on the front lines, richard, good morning. >> reporter: good morning, greg. u.s. officials believe that russian groups are trying to cut off and then in circle ukrainian forces out here in the east. but with new american weapons coming in and determine ukrainian fighters, they are facing resistance. a senior u.s. defense official say russian troops are taking heavy losses and that ukrainian forces have destroyed 1000 russian tanks in the last three months. along with dozens of aircraft and helicopters and 350 pieces of artillery. but teams are prepared to take the casualties. that is how russia won previous forms through grinding

attrition. still, ukrainian groups outgunned in our number who is drawing on with their one advantage. they are fighting for their home. >> we are not professional shoulders. >> reporter: -- was a senior federal judge who specialized in personal dispute. he swapped his gavel for a gun, and now he has a first lieutenant. >> the most precious thing that we have is our freedom. our loved ones. our country. so if not us, then who? >> reporter: are you guys taking a lot of losses out here? >> almost every day, but -- >> reporter: after marking us with yellow tape so we wouldn't be mistaken for russians, he drove us to his -- position, where they have taken many of the losses. scars from the fresh battles, the tree shredded by incoming of outgoing rounds. this russian vehicle, dead in its tracks.

>> i smelled the body of the russian soldier inside. it was a direct hit, so powerful that it blew the engine right out of the vehicle. >> reporter: like in world war i and two, ukrainian groups hide and attack in trenches. >> these are ridiculously small. you are breathing under fire in the trench, do you ever think maybe you should have stayed behind the bench? >> i have to be an example, you know? if i'm afraid, i shouldn't show that i'm afraid. >> reporter:'s family is out of the country. his door as is as open ended as -- >> do you think you are winning right now? >> charlie but slowly. >> reporter: and for the first time, russian officials and to be preparing the russian public for a long war, admitting that the conflict is taking longer than they had anticipated. >> richard, thank you.

>> let's turn to the holiday weekend ahead. we all want to know, l, what is going on. >> yes, the memorial day travel rushes in full swing. aaa is reported close to 40 million before heading out to celebrate the unofficial side of summer. even gas prices and airfare skyrocket. the first showing from chicago with a look at those crowded roads and airports and tips to save some money. jesse, good morning. >> reporter: good morning, chanelle. so far it is pretty smooth sailing out here, but this is just a trickle compared to what is quebec. we can see it on the roads later today. remarkably, aaa is expecting more americans to trouble this memorial day weekend last year, even as the constant vacation is going on. thankfully, we have some tips to help you save some money and hopefully focus more on the fun.

this morning, the unofficial start of summer is officially way more expensive. >> is pretty brutal. >> reporter: the national press for a regular gallon is now around $4.60. at this memorial day weekend, soaring gas prices aren't stopping americans hitting the open road. >> wire and not saying that we are going to stay at home? >> because covid is kept us at home for so long, it is time to get out. >> reporter: flying too, but not for two. the average domestic round-trip ticket this weekend is almost $400. nearly a 30% jump from before the pandemic. >> i paid a lot more for these tickets that i did the last time i went. >> reporter: many others are on the move coast to coast. aaa expecting over 39 million people to travel this weekend, with more people getting away this memorial day than last year. the overwhelming majority flying. >> a few miles an hour, they can save five to 10% in terms of

fuel efficiency, and making even a few beyond that. >> reporter: they also recommend cutting costs by checking your tire pressure and emptying her car to make it lighter. some the best could be later this morning, and early this afternoon. no matter how long it take to get there, hopefully he feels like summer is finally here. >> yeah, it doesn't quite feel that way in chicago right now because we've got drizzling skies in the 50s. gas prices, some people might be able to ease the burden on those rush-hour times this year, because this work from home flexibility. some people might be able to avoid traveling during rush hour. i, however, and waiting for all clear for the city of rochelle, so just me the heads up. >> and you are free. jesse, thank you. have a good weekend. >> weather is the question.

we can't wait to talk to al. first of all, we start off here in the east. 35 million people have shown damaging winds cannot can't rollout a tornado too. we see the radar firing up. we've already had an got a risk of flooding. it goes down to raleigh, kingston and -- as well. all right, if you are going to be traveling, philadelphia, washington airports are going to be having some problems. detroit, chicago, maybe some delays work pittsburgh to philly, and i-95, new york to savannah, scattered showers on identity as well. here's the we can for you. boston is looking pretty good sunday and monday. temperatures in the 80s. you nor, new york one -- washington looking good in the 90s. let's look to the west, gorgeous weather. minneapolis, as we get into monday, and then as you look into the southeast, things are looking pretty good in temperatures in the 90s. and out west you got some

problems, but basically eastern weather. the worst of seattle, and tortures in the 50s. we are going to get your local forecast coming up in the next 30 seconds. that said, do you know where i am? earn 5% cash back in your top eligible spend category, up to $500 spent each billing cycle. with the citi custom cash℠ card. good friday morning to you. our temperatures will be in the mid-60s for san francisco and san jose. upper 60s for san mateo and haworth, and some upper 70s for santa rosa as well as livermore. and san jose, but it will be slightly cooler tomorrow as we get more clouds. even some spotty, like showers and parts of the coast.

on memorial day, we are headed up to 80 degrees with sunshine getting warmer for the middle of next week. all right, al. thank you so much. closing arguments being held today in the bitter multimillion dollar trial of stars johnny depp and amber heard. >> what you can expect to hear, and the buzz surrounding this case. self-driving cars. our power grid. water treatment plants. hospital systems. they're all connected to the internet... and vladimir putin or a terrorist could cause them all to self-destruct... a cyber 9-11 that would destroy our country. i'm dan o'dowd and i wrote the software that keeps our air defenses secure. i approved this message because i need your vote for u.s. senate to send a message... congress needs to fix this.

a tribute to the life and legacy of goodfellows actor leigh leota.

right now, we're all feelin' a little strapped. but weekends are still all about grilling. and walmart always keeps prices low on our fresh ingredients. so you can save money and live better. ♪ good morning for you, i am marcus washington, and we are following breaking news this morning. crews are still on that church fire in pittsburgh, and that is where we find nbc bay area sierra johnson. sierra, they are working hard to put out that fire. >> reporter: yes, good morning, marcus. they have left, but there is still a good number of those firetrucks here on the scene behind me. you can see a lot of that smoke has cleared. it was quite a smoky scene and

there is also a lot of flames. a lot of that has dissipated in the last hour. we are not seeing those shootings flames that we have seen in the last hour or so. we did have a chance to speak with a member of the fire department and he tells us around 2:35, it would seem in that call of a fire and at that time, several blocks were closed . right now the good news though is that there are no reports of injuries. now, the firefighter did add that the roof collapsed that made fighting that fire quite difficult. we had quite a mounted time, but it looks like things are wrapping up, although the fire crew will remain on scene for quite some time working to determine a cause. marcus, back to you. >> thank you, sierra. time to get a look at that forecast for you. sunday forecast. >> it looks like a really nice holiday weekend for us. if you got the extra day off on monday for memorial day, it will be slightly warmer before inland valley. we are talking about

temperatures in the mid-70s, breezy with us, maybe even light showers near the coastline where in san francisco, they are only going to reach about 63 degrees tomorrow. gusty winds on sunday, and memorial day with highs in the mid 60s. mark is? >> back to the work as. thanks. we will see you back in a half hour.

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>> how you doing gino. >> good. >> good, good. >> every time i come here. every time i do. don't you work >> back now 7:30 one of the many iconic scenes from "goodfellas". >> a look back at his life and back now at 7:30. one of the iconic scenes from goodfellows on a morning filled with tribute. it is its star, ray leota. >> of course that made his career. >> and he had so many iconic roles this morning.

his passing and is career. let's get your headline, 7:30 friday morning. a scary moment upon a cruise ship. a fire broke out on the freighter. you can see it, six black smoke pillars pouring from the boat. they were ordered to put on life jackets. the fire was extinguished by emergency response team and nobody was injured. the passengers now return to florida on a different cruise ship. now for the monkeypox outbreak, it is striking nine cases across seven states. but cheryl linsky says the united states does have the resources it needs to respond to the virus, including two vaccines that have already been approved by the fda. >> after kevin spacey is now facing sexual assault charges in the ua with a 16-year-old --

between 2005 and 2013. the announcement came when the actor was in a new york courtroom in a different case and reached out to representatives. the comment has not yet come back. including the drama filled johnny depp and amber her defamation trial. >> after six weeks of testimony , the legal team for those ex- spouses will make closing arguments today. >> she made her way to the courthouse there in fairfax, virginia. steph, good morning. >> reporter: good morning, guys. there is a long line outside this court house. they started showing up at 1:00 am, you know what? they probably would have been here earlier. but that is when the police allow them to actually get in that line to get one of those coveted seats inside. otherwise they are trying to get a few of amber heard and gemini depp when they come into the courthouse. this has been going on since april 11th.

it is a spectacle not only here at the courthouse, but also online. today the attorneys for amber heard have their final opportunity to convince the journey that their client is the one telling the truth. >> every single day i have relive the trauma. >> humiliating. ludicrous. painful. and all false. >> reporter: a long, and often ugly trial coming to a close. johnny depp and amber heard both saying they told the truth under oath and under the microscope of public opinion. first there heard said depp physically assaulted her throughout their relationship. >> he hit me over and over and over again. and i thought, this is how i die. >> reporter: presenting photos saying that showed the abuse. depp said that he never struck her and that she was the abuser. >> everywhere was just pouring out. >> reporter: both sides calling on a memorable cast of witnesses to support their stories.

>> mr. depp threw a wine bottle across the room, the hotel room. >> -- >> reporter: a litany of allegations and denial swirling in the courtroom. it all hinges on a 2018 post op edit by amber heard in which he never mentioned depp by name, but called herself a public figure representing domestic abuse. for those words, depp is suing her for defamation. claiming 50 million in damages to his career. heard is countersuing him for 100 million. >> i have the right to tell my story. >> reporter: that stories under heavy scrutiny where it is heavily in depp's favor. the hashtag justice for depp is over 16 million views, meanwhile hashtag justice for amber heard is just 54 million. but the verdict will come not

from tiktok and twitter, but the seven-person jury. heard reminding the jury yesterday that the social media is centered around real and serious allegations. >> people want to kill me, and they tell me so every day. >> reporter: with real people at the center. >> reporter: the jury will have to deliver it, and the jury not only has to determine whether heard or johnny depp were buying, but also whether they did it with malice. >> it is wild to see this trial. but this trial comes out of another trial over the pond that johnny depp actually lost. tell us more about that one. >> reporter: it is interesting, craig. it was back in november 2021 in the in the tabloid newspaper. the sun, which called johnny depp a wife beater. in the uk, a person who was accused is the one that has to prove what they said was true. it means the bar it's a little

bit lower there, and they have to prove that johnny depp was a wife beater. the court found that it was, quote, substantially true. johnny depp lost that case. the star witness on paper? amber heard. >> steph, thank you. >> yes, johnny depp lost that case where he filed in the uk. it will be a harder case under the law here for him. coming up next, hollywood pays tribute back to the life and legacy of ray leota. his career of defining roles and how fellow stars are remembering the legendary actor today.

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ask your doctor about tremfya® today. we are back at 7:40 now with the tributes that are pouring in for beloved actor ray liotta. >> one of hollywood's most recognizable faces over the past 30 years, the "goodfellas" star strawman at 7:40 now with attributes passedre pouring in for ray leota. >> one of hollywood's most recognizable bowl faces over the past half year. at the age of 67, he passed away. there is more on ray leota's life and legacy. joe, good morning. >> reporter: yeah, he was. he is said to have died in his sleep in the dominican republic. it doesn't say exactly how he died, but it is not suspicious and no foul play is suspected. he was filming a movie in the caribbean. just the latest project in a long, remarkable career. >> as far back as i can remember, i always wanted to be a gangster. >> reporter: it is the movie that helped define his career.

>> i flushed it down the toilet. >> you want? why would you do that? >> reporter: they also defined ray leota, a good fellow. his famous co-stars are paying tribute, and were very saturday here rays passing as robert de niro is way too young to have left. utterly shattered to hear this terrible news about ray, saying that he was the best part of making that movie. >> i'm a clown. i make you laugh. >> reporter: a simple eight word statement. god is a good fellow, and so is ray. some of the cast reunited in 2015. >> why do you think this film has resonated with so many for so long? >> it is good. it's just a good movie. >> he was adopted and raised in new jersey.

his acting career began with a three-year stint on a soap opera. he jumped to the big screen in 1986 during the golden globe nomination for his performance. >> you are something. you are something. and came the role of gangster henry hill. he is a good fellow. >> what do you do? >> reporter: a life-changing role, although he didn't quite realize it at the time. >> we would like bigger and better things, but i am not holding my breath. >> those eyes became a fixture of movies and tv shows, and which won leota an emmy. >> i have a lot of things that

i have to do. >> reporter: a few years ago, we teamed up with jennifer lopez in the nbc drama, shades of blue. >> it's always been your worst alone. >> reporter: he would swing by today. >> great place lieutenant. wozniak! >> we don't want to upset him. >> get it right, holy. >> reporter: he was reeled back in the mob life, appearing in the soprano sequel. >> i just date on 66 and i just still have that burn. >> reporter: one of his last interviews he sat down with willie last september. and the role that made him a star. >> the distance that when you were making it it was an incredible cast and that you were on to something special? >> i have no idea. my mom was sick with cancer during the filming of goodfellows, and she passed away in the middle of it. it put it in perspective and a

really deep way. >> reporter: now with his fans and co-stars who are reflecting on his life, who says ray will be the epitome of a tough guy who was all mushy on the inside. the original good fellow. >> leota recently finished filming a new products, including the apple tv series blackbird, which is out in july. in the movie cocaine bear, which is slated for release early next year. his daughter and fiance jc were traveling with him in the dominican republic. >> thank you. he came by here many times and was always so gracious. >> a few years ago with the cast of goodfellows. we talked about all the fun they had and that set back in the day. that was the highlight getting to work together. >> all right, we return to you al for our weather. we will show you what we've got today. here in the west, we've got

showers and storms moving in the pacific northwest. it is going to stay cooler than average, however it continues down through the southern place into the second place, and it makes its way through the great lakes. severe storm into the mid atlantic later this afternoon, slowing down things, but then it gets a bit better as we had on. that is what is going on around the country. it is what is happening. good friday morning to you. i am meteorologist cary hall. we are going to see some weather continue across the bay area with -- which is normal for this year. highs in the mid 70s, breezy winds. we get some afternoon sunshine. it will be warmer on memorial day, reaching 80 degrees. that warming continues throughout at least the middle of next week. for san francisco, it is breezy and cool. it will reach into the mid 60s and gusty winds on sunday, but we should see some more sunshine on monday.

>> and today's weather. already, prices and inflation scoring the holiday weekend sales. we are going to show you where to shop. right after these messages. a yummy treat and dinosaur toy from jurassic world: dominion in theaters june 10th. rated pg 13. kinder joy. i was on an antidepressant, from jurassic world: dominion in theaters june 10th. but i was still masking my depression. sweetie, is everything alright? yeah, i'm fine. honey, are you ok? yeah, i'm fine. it was time to do something. so i managed to move up my next doctor appointment. i'm just not doing as well as i'd hoped on my antidepressant. i'm glad you came in. let's try adding rexulti. when added to an antidepressant, rexulti was proven to reduce depression symptoms 62% more than the antidepressant alone. so you can build on your progress. rexulti can cause serious side effects. elderly dementia patients have increased risk of death or stroke. antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts and worsen depression in those under 25.

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role. a quick reunion in nearly four decades. if that is not enough, we have the fellow california barbecue king in the building. getting us ready for memorial day weekend. first, a quick check for your local news and weather. my asthma felt anything but normal. ♪ ♪ it was time for a nunormal with nucala. nucala reduces asthma attacks it's a once-monthly add-on treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma. not for sudden breathing problems. allergic reactions can occur. get help right away for swelling of face, mouth, tongue, or trouble breathing. infections that can cause shingles have occured. don't stop steroids unless told by your doctor. tell your doctor if you have a parasitic infection. may cause headache, injection site reactions, back pain, and fatigue. ask your asthma specialist about a nunormal with nucala.

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good morning. it is 7:56. i am marcus washington, and here's a look at what is happening now, including a big music festival kicking off in the north bay. >> reporter: i am in napa, where bottle rock music festival is kicking off today. if you are planning to head to the festival, there are some things you need to know. the festival runs from today till sunday. bottle rock is cash free, so be sure to register your wristband for payment methods, and pay close attention around the backsides and prohibited items. health experts also recommend keeping your mask handy if you are attending this event, or a large or risky setting.

>> i am barbara dao, the doves have done it again. they are on to the nba finals. this is a team last night outside the chase center where you can see fireworks lit up the night sky. this was their first really big when inside the relatively new billion-dollar facility which opened in 2019. this will be the warrior sixth trip to the nba finals in the past eight years after they defeated the dallas mavericks for western conference fier of they are playing boston or miami. a temperature forecast, temptress a feeling really comfortable. we will have a mix of sun and clouds, and even maybe more so tomorrow especially near the coast at the inland areas. we are looking at 70s. >> all right, thanks, carrie. we are going to have another local news update for you in about 30 minutes. >> this morning i california live, meet the celebrated nonprofit life-changing help to our vets, plus memorial day grilling tips and trips by the certified hit master. that is this morning at 7:30 on

california live. out-of-state corporations wrote an online sports betting plan they call "solutions for the homeless". really? the corporations take 90 percent of the profits. and using loopholes they wrote, they'd take even more. the corporations' own promotional costs, like free bets, taken from the homeless funds. and they'd get a refund on their $100 million license fee, taken from homeless funds, too. these guys didn't write a plan for the homeless. they wrote it for themselves.

for controller, yvonne yiu. as an executive at top financial firms, yiu managed hundreds of audits. as mayor, yiu saved taxpayes over $55 millio. finding waste. saving money.

[ captioners transitioning ] ♪ it is 8:00 on "today." coming up. texas timeline new questions surrounding law enforcement's response to the elementary school scooting when did police arrive on the scene? why did it take so long to stop the lone gunman. >> our job is report the facts and have those answers we're not there yet. >> live from uvalde with a full report. and start your summer. tens of millions set to hit the road for the holiday weekend, with gas prices soaring what you need to know to ease the

costs of your trip ngs on opportunities from everything summer essentials to new mattress ♪ plus top shelf "top gun: maverick" opens to rave reviews from early audiences. and fans saying they cannot get enough it have danger zone >> and a behind the scenes look at abba's new concert. first time they have shared the stage in decades this time as high-tech abba tars so get ready if you can chance, you can jivic having the time of your life "today," friday, may 27, 2022. ♪ >> germany. >> topeka, kansas. >> madison, wisconsin. >> and nashville, tennessee tennessee. ♪ >> virginia. >> georgia. >> 12th birthday.

>> finishing our family road trip with "today." >> road trip welcome back friday morning heading into a hollywood weekend. the unofficial start of summer craig and sheinelle with us. hoda getting a jump on it. lot of folks are. >> unofficial start of summer this weekend quick note here. next week is going a big one here on "today." also big one for our friends across the pond. filled with celebrations for the queen's platinum jubilee we're going to help mark her 70th year on the throne. >> all week explore her life, service and of course live in ic london to service and of course live in london to bring you all the festivities surrounding the historic event begins monday here on "today." the 10th season of the crown right here on nbc news. >> exactly what i was thinking

>> right to your news at 8:00 on friday family that lost loved ones in this week's texas school massacre are growing frustrated and angrier. morgan chesky joins us from uvalde with the latest good morning >> reporter: savannah, good morning. another tough morning here this uvalde as authorities now begin to change their story about wha elementary this after parents shared they were urging authorities to go inside and police weren't acting fast enough. as authorities try to clarify with answers, only new questions raised about why it took so long to take down this shooter. >> reporter: this morning growing confusion and outrage about why it took so long to take out that lone gunman. >> our job is to report the facts. and have those answers we're not there yet.

>> reporter: police now say it took over an hour from the first 9-1-1 call to stop the massacre. in that time 19 children and 2 teachers were killed in 4 classrooms one-fourth grader hid under a table. terrified as the gunman barged in >> the cop said speak if you need help. and one of the persons in my class said help. the guy overheard and he came in and shot her and then the cops barged in in to that classroom. >> reporter: texas deputy of public safety officials now backtracking, saying there was no school officer on campus. saying that the 18 year old seen here armed with an ar style rifle entered the building through what appeared to be an unlocked door. >> from the grandmother's house to the ditch into the school, he was not confronted by anybody. >> authorities also clarifying their timeline 11:28 say the suspect crashed near the school. he then fired at two people

outside a funeral home across the street before climbing the fence to robb elementary at 1130 the first 9-1-1 call came in ten minutes later the suspect entered the school by 11:34 the first officers aid arrived. the suspect locking himself in a classroom firing numerous rounds tactical teams didn't arrive until about an hour later. that is when officers were finally able to hope the door using a key from the principal and took down the downman. and this morning new video confirming witness accounts of what happened outside the school and we have video that shows parents growing frustrated with authorities, as everyone was waiting outside robb elementary as shots were being fired on the inside meanwhile nbc news has reached out to authorities about that young boy's account of the police telling children to ask

for help and we have yet to hear back savannah >> morgan, thank you very much >> now to the memorial day weekend, across this country the millions of americans who are getting out o of town despite higher gas prices and soaring air fares. nbc's jesse kirsch in chicago with a look at the holiday getaway. good morning. >> reporter: good morning craig you. see the traffic here in chicago starting to look somewhat like a trickle. but still many people on the move across the country despite high prices. looking at an average price of $4.60 for regular right now. air fare not good either the average domestic ticket this weekend is close to 400 dollars. despite all of that we're looking at close to 40 million people expected to be traveling this holiday weekend according to aaa that is up from last year. so people are still on the move. and they are doing it already. right now here in the windy

city, if you are trying to hit the roads today. you want to avoid peak teams gas buddy warning about mid-morning today and early this afternoon. so if you can avoid the rush hour periods, starting to look like that here in chicago. so i hope these people have a good play list cued up in the car. >> jesse, enjoy your holiday weekend there in chicago we'll get to al's weekend forecast in a bit. >> at least four killed and two others injured overnight when an explosion destroyed or damaged several homes in pottstown, pennsylvania about 40 miles southeast of philadelphia rescuers spent the night going through the rubble and checking for victims and survivors. federal investigators will be on the scene today to help local officials find the cause of the blast. all schools in pottstown are closed today. to basketball now. the golden state warriors are headed back to the nba finals after a big night from klay thompson

>> the warriors won it 120-110 they are back in the finals fir the first time since 2019 and face the winner of the boston/miami series. >> stayed up, watched a little of that game they are so fun to watch by the way this is the sixth time that steph, clay and draghi have gone to the nba finals. favored to win. >> -- miami and boston. >> sportster is over for the morning. how about boost. >> i like "sportscenter. imagine how exciting for kids i when -- comes to visit on the last day of school >> -- lebron james drops by. this is the -- hometown of akron, ohio. he's actually vice principal of

the school king james posed for pictures with kids, teachers, too and latered posted some and latered posted some online wishing the students fun and safe summer. >> that's pretty awesome >> did you have any big names show up at your school >> no. >> those schools are transformtive, by the way. >> he does great work, on and off the court. >> up next, vicky is here to help kick off summer and hope you save money. >> everything we need to know to take advantage of the huge holiday sales in stores and online we'll have that for you right after this

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holiday sales in stores and online we'll have that for you right after this we are back at 8:14 with today's cant miss summer our special series to make sure you make the most of the months ahead. >> this morning, this holiday weekend with inflation soaring to a 40 year high. our wallets are being hit hard so any way you can save to make a difference. >> that is why vicky is here we're going to do this nbc senior investigative correspondent vicky nguyen always has the answers memorial day sales happen every year when are they supposed to start. >> right now as we speak savannah and they are going through monday and in some cases through tuesday.

and the usually suspects are on sale outdoor furniture, indoor furniture, mattresses and summer fun essentials. >> let's get into it starting with mattress. >> okay. so if you need to update your sleeping situation, this is a really good weekend to look at the -- >> -- >> all right we won't talk to that for now. temp paid -- tempurpedic and other -- >> -- in a box. >> it's wild but you let it sit there a day, it puffs up and people love it that is $100 off and mattress firm a bunch of brands up to 40, 50% off including in that. >> look out for it >> you want to look at actual ship date. supply chain delays continue to be an issue. you want to make sure it arrives in time for whatever you need it for. that said, wayfair is having a big sale on sofas, ottomans, chairs everything you need for a living room up to 60 percent off same at overstock and they have got to focus on area rugs and lighting and that can make a big

difference in a and finally if you want to go and actually play on the mattress or sit on the chair, macy's has a big sale in person, 60% off furniture this weekend most of their items and also mattresses >> all right >> we have one category to talk about. >> yes let's talk about sales on summer fun items. >> yes this is the time of year where you want to get those things help you have a great time-out doors, sheinelle. so the big retailers have big sales this weekend home depot, walmart, target and amazon everybody needs a patio umbrella they get ratty after a while one boy costway at homeland that 35% off. it has solar panels so when the sun goes down, the led lights come on. your kids are big enough to do this the beach chair. everybody gets all sandy on the ground the chair that is like the backpack that you can carry, strap some of those onto the twins and you are good. >> not too heavy >> not at all. and they are on sale at walmart $40 off. a cooler

you want to keep your food cold. drinks cold. 50% off a wheeled igloo at target. >> not bad. >> not at all. and this is my favorite item which is a hammock nothing says summer like hammock and lemonade 25% off the hammock. they expect that to sell really well any time you can lay in a hammock, it's a good day >> i'm ready >> so ready. >> summer. >> let's turn from holiday savings to the holiday forecast. al, how is the weekend looking >> let's standard with today here in the east we've got a storm system brewing. we've already got tornado watch, severe thunderstorm warning from washington, d.c. down into south carolina -- north carolina so we're going watch that closely. risk of severe weather today can't rule out a tornado or two the next several hours 35 million people at risk. wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour with all this rain and it is just going to be the same

storms over the same places. a risk of flooding as well in parts of northeast and mid atlantic wet in the northeast the southern sizzle on from texas into the central plains. and unfortunately leads to fire danger out west through the southwest into southern california showers, storms and co good friday morning to you. we are enjoying some cooler weather here, especially near the coast where we see the clouds and mist and drizzle. temperatures in the 60s. across the bay in oakland 71. upper 78 for san jose. we will see more clouds moving in and a chance of spotty light showers near the coast, as well as parts of the t weather. carson has "indiana jones" news, and yet i'm banned from "popstart." >> why are you -- >> i don't know.

because i got to go outside. but it is the best time of the morning. >> i need you. i need you over here you are my flavor flav >> hit it. go my friend do your best "popstart." >> god bless him all right. i'll try first up on "popstart. maverick finally officially. can't stop it now. in theaters. first trailers started out july of 2019. here we are three years later. audiences are going to line up to see if it is worth the wait "top gun: maverick" has a 97% on rotten tomatoes and box office predictions have it close to 100 million over the weekend, opening weekend. that would be tom's biggest opening weekend ever and his first $100 million -- >> wow. >> let's take a second and go

back what was the world like in 1986 when the first "top gun" came out. a pair of aviators cost only 30 burks back then to 130 now the average movie ticket was about three and a half bucks now it is almost ten here is one that hurts the gallon of gas. cents. now it is $4.59. and for everybody grilling this weekend, a pound of beef was about 33, versus $4.92 today >> wow. >> and speaking of rising numbers. cruise was report lit paid just 2 million for the first top gun and according to variety, 13 million for the sequel plus some cash after the movie debuts. >> you saw it. >> i'm going tomorrow. >> it scratches all issues from the opening music if you loved the original. >> summer of '86 me and my best friend would go to the local theater and watch like every saturday of the summer a double feature of "top gun" and desperately seeking susan.

those two movies were playing. every saturday. >> -- >> -- this long for the sequel. >> people are going love it. i really think -- >> next up harrison ford. big news for "indiana jones" fans he came out to wish a happy 90th to composure john williams and while harrison was there, he decided to announce the fifth "indiana jones" movie is nearly complete and showed off this first look image while revealing the release date june 30, 2023. that means 42 years between harrison ford's first time being raiders of the lost arc now this new adventure. but no one else will play "indiana jones" as craig asked him. >> when you are done where that role, who would you like to see as "indiana jones"". >> nobody. >> nobody. i'm "indiana jones." when i'm gone, he's gone

>> yes >> i agree with that. >> han solo. let's put that out there. >> i agree. >> that is indy. it isn't james bond. it's indy. >> lake our childhood being relived. "popstart," eighties, indy. >> next up, ed sheeran overnight released a expanded sing olive his first album. four previously unreleased songs. one welcome to the world announced the birth of their ♪ ♪♪ second baby last week. not sure if that has anything to do with it, but take a listen.

♪ ♪ ♪ . >> i love ed sheeran. >> i don't think i've ever heard a bad song from ed everything he does is great. by the way -- is out now next up. this is incredible i was watching today foo fighters is two months since the tragic passing of the band's drummer taylor hawkins there is a musical group comprised of 1,000 musicians an♪ ♪ watch hitch as he goes ♪ ♪ they got together and performed gsz 123450i678 a massive cover of the foo fighters classic song "my hero." take a look. ♪ there goes my hero ♪ ♪ watch hitch as he goes ♪ ♪ there goes my hero ♪

♪ >> wow. >> if you need a pick me up today, watch that in its entire. multiple drummers. hundreds of guitar players, all playing. awesome finally sweet news to end on this week six months since our friends cody and morgan miller welcomed a baby girl into the world and in that time we never got a name because they wanted to get know the baby before settling on a name savannah asked what the top choices were back in january and this is what they had to say. >> what are some other front runners? >> so we've definitely in order it down. our three front runners are skyler, scarlet and/or -- >> so what did they settle on? we'd like to introduce to you scarlett olivia khioni miller. congratulations again to the whole family and baby >> so adorable congrats that was an excellent

"popstart." >> thank you. >> -- you delivered. >> -- holding you back actually. >> al, what do you think good morning. we continue to follow a developing story out of pittsburgh. crews are investigating after a church went up in flames. it happened around 3:00 this morning at the pentecostals of the bay area church along central avenue and railroad avenue. the roof collapsed and blew out the front door. firefighters on the ground then how to go into defense mode. the cause of the fire is under

investigation. we are enjoying some near normal temperatures. it is going to be partly cloudy and also breezy with temperatures in san francisco headed for the mid 60s. morgan hill getting ready for a nice weekend. it will be cooler tomorrow with highs in the mid-70s. we will also have a slight chance of rain along the coastline and in parts of the north bay. overall we do have nice comfortable weather for the long weekend. memorial day does warm up as we go towards 80 and upper 80s. we will have another local news update coming up in 30 minutes.

♪ ♪ morning. friday morning, of course before memorial day

27th of may, 2022. and can you tell this is a crowd ready for the holiday weekend? >> oh yeah. >> man tee shirts made uncle al. >> look at that. >> they came ready. >> who is jillian? happy birthday, jillian. how old are you? >> 12. >> happy birthday. >> happy birthday. >> love the shirts. >> nice. >> our lawyers will be seeing you about those logos. >> keep on keeping on. so much stuff. played abba. good reason for that

all to mark their return as digital versions of themselves we need digital versions of ourselves. >> we are digital versions. >> also ahead. we're honoring a soldier who after being wounded in afghanistan served another decade in the army to. thank him, kerry sanders helps deliver a huge surprise to him a touching story hope you will stick around for that coming up. and of course the holiday weekend. we got to break out the barbecue who better than to do it with our good friend chef kevin bledsoe. coming up on the third hour, why did al meet stranger -- >> -- make it sound so creepy. >> well it was a little stranger at first introducing us to the woman who accidentally started a viral sensation and it is all about making new friends from all walks of life. >> are you wearing the same -- >> i am actually and we need your help next weekes as we walk the rock for our start "today" series

tied to our newest 30 day plan to have you feeling great. so if you are going to be in the area and want to get involved, bring your sneakers. get the details. sign up on today.com >> i know you will be walking. >> yes >> all right let's get the weather forecast. >> ahead for the memorial day weekend. looks great in the northeast after showers on saturday, sunday, monday looking good. warming up then we're going to head into the midwest. fairly lovely weather and temperatures into the 80s and 90 good morning. we do have nice weather for the bay area. we will see a mix of sun and clouds. highs reaching into the mid- 70s. our sunshine on sunday and memorial day we will reach 80.

we are also going to keep it cool in san francisco. more clouds, fog, mist and drizzle and gusty winds on sunday. we will see more sunshine on memorial day with highs reaching to the mid-60s is slightly warmer next week. yo la weather. >> uncle al, now to a beloved memorial day weekend tradition the indianapolis 500 there is a reason they call it the greatest spectacle in racing and it is back sunday for the 106th time >> get this. 300,000 fans expected to pack that speedway to watch 33 cars compete for that iconic trophy and with us to break down the race and this year's favorites perhaps the biggest man in all of sports. >> we know by just a single name. >> tirico. >> mike tirico we got hear about this race this morning. old guard versus the newbies.

>> we do good morning savannah. happy holiday weekend, happy start of summer. this is one of traditions that starts summer. i'm going to give you three headline drivers to keep an eye on scott dixon is a six time champ in the series on the pole for the fifth time in his history. he's trying to win his second indy 500 another one, helio castroneves from "dancing with the stars" he won his fourth indy last year. he's trying to become the first to win five. and nascar fans, jimmy johnson won the series championship seven times. he's racing indy for the first time trying to become the third driver to win daytona and indip in his career. lot of big stories on the line sunday. >> mike, for folks who, i've been there couple times. my wife is there right now covering -- as well. for those who haven't been to the motor speedway what is it about the indy 500 that separates it from other events why is it called the greatest

spectacle in sports? >> well it is just a quarter million people that's all and the place will be full for the first time in quite a while. it is the speeds too so the average speed qualifying was over 230 miles an hour so get on the highway, think about going three times the speed limit with cars nearby and walls all around, two and a half miles, and do that 200 times >> oh no >> awe hey mike, i don't know if you can hear me. real quickly, it is going to be sunny. temperatures in the mid- to upper-80s. is that going to affect racing and those crowds as well >> al, it does for a couple of reasons. for the drivers on the track it hasn't been warm and sunny when they have been on the track. and the drivers tell me that when it gets to that kind of weather, it is a little harder to handle the car. in addition to going 230 and the walls and 33 cars, the handle

and grip of the cars changes when it gets that hot. for the fans, they just have more to drink i guess. trying to stay cool. >> why do they drink milk at the end of this? what's the history of that >> in the 1930s a driver won and mom told him cool off with buttermilk so milk is the tradition. 26 like whole milk six skim milk. >> they will be coming in hot. thank you. >> -- improving, there is not a question he doesn't know the answer to. >> that's it. >> he brings his own supporting footage. >> mike tirico we'll be watching on sunday. again, you can catch the 106th indianapolis 500 sunday right here nbc coverage starting at 11:00 a.m. eastern. >> up next we're going to honor our military as we head into memorial day weekend with a powerful story of purple heart recipients dead indicated life of service as kerry sanders was there.

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we are back with more of our special series honoring our military today as the nation gears up for memorial day. >> it's so important before you jump in pools and fire up your grills that you take a quick second to remember those who we are back with more of our special series honoring our military today as the nation gears up for memorial day. >> guys it is so important to jump in pools and fire up the grills, take a quick second to remember those who gave their lives in service of this country and also those who serve on the front lines. nbc senior national correspondent kerry sanders joins was the you having story of one special veteran kerry good morning. >> good morning, guys. yes. we owe so much to those who make the ultimate sacrifice there are others who were wounded in war sometimes you don't ensee their wounds so when wells fargo bank came to us with the story of one soldier who received a purple heart after getting wounded, we were intrigued. staff sergeant alfonso porter was not only wounded, but then he stayed in the military for over a decade and was deploy ad total of six times and then he quietly slipped into civilian life. well, this morning we're giving him a big thank you with a big surprise >> i have my son and i really

wanted him to have something to be proud of. and i wanted him to be able to look at me one day and go my dad did something that mattered. >> reporter: inspired by his little boy at 27 years old, alfonso porter enlisted in the united states army six months later he deployed to afghanistan. >> there were many trying times in a war zone. but you had one rather dramatic moment. >> while on patrol, we had someone use a church as a defensive point. hand grenade was thrown from the top. shrapnel under my vest and peppered up my back. it wasn't until i was back in the track i realized i was hit. >> you didn't even know you had been peppered with shrapnel. >> there is so much going on and you are worried about your brothers and they are worried about you and you continue to do what you are trained.

>> reporter: wuned in combat he was awarded the purple heart in 2010. he dedicated another 10 years of his life to the army deployed five more times before he was honorably discharged. he was now just alfonso, a civilian and a father he and his partner april are raising seven children, calling houston, texas, home alfonso's biggest challenge is one familiar to those who leave the military in the civilian world, how do you qualify success? >> i had no idea how to achieve success because my definition of success had become one thing for so long. >> reporter: enter the military warriors support foundation, an organization helping vets transition into civilian life, offering programs that focus on financial wellness, leadership development and recreational activity that help build bonds he learned, unlike military life with patches and medals, you can quantify success on your own terms. >> taught me to be a better employee, better father, better friend and a better man in general. >> reporter: one of the foundations many programs is called "homes for wounded

heros. to date, 900 mortgage free homes have been donated to veterans o foundation's many programs is called homes for wounded heroes. to date, 900 mortgage-free homes have been donated to veterans like t like this one. alfonso in april had no idea but over the last few months workers raced to renovate this home, all for this drum roll moment. the military warrior support foundation and lieutenant general leroy cisco actually wanted to tell you something here today >> wells fargo bank has donated this tome to us -- to our foundation and today they want to show you some love. and this is your beautiful home. >> thank you so much, sir. >> congratulations >> thank you >> you didn't expect that did

you? >> no, i wasn't quite expected that. >> do you think i you should take a look inside >> sure. >>apl toured their new home for the first time >> new appliances. >> imagine my mom coming to visit. >> this is a big closet, right >> i'm not the typical woman i get like this much space. >> that's a not true. >> and he get all the rest of the space. >> i'm siding with her. >> reporter: a place that signifies endless possibilities for their family. >> what are the memories you hope to build here in your new home. >> best would be some memories of cutting grass but i hope to have a meeting place for our family i'd love for people to say hey let's go down texas. because that is where family is. that's home base >> like a dream coming true. >> yes sir. >> reporter: alfonso says

growing up his family would celebrate just having enough money to put a deposit down on a lease. so now to own a home emergency free is beyond a dream come true to alfonso and all the wounded veterans and to the families who have lost loved ones on this memorial day, we as a nation salute you >> we certainly do, kerry. great story. thanks to bringing it to life. you forget he was hurt and then went back and served five more deployments after that incredible great story. just ahead we're going to turn to a reunion nearly 40 years in the making. >> abba back together again for the start that is opening up their virtual concert experience a firsthand look at the a firsthand look at the excitement and how t i've lived in san francisco

for 20 years. i'm raising my kids here. this city is now less safe for all of us. chesa boudin is failing to hold repeat offenders accountable. he prosecuted zero fentanyl drug dealing cases, even though nearly 500 people have died of overdoses. i'm voting yes on h to recall chesa boudin now. we can't wait one more day when people are dying on our streets.

did you know that renovating your kitchen and bathroom is one of the best ways to increase the value of your home? i'm mike holmes here with ivan from agm renovations america's number one kitchen and bathroom renovators thanks mike! we make kitchen and bathroom renovations easy for everyone. we quote and design each project and help customers select all finishes without having to leave their home! wow! agm are the only kitchen and bathroom renovations specialists i recommend. ♪ agmrenovations.com ♪ [announcer] call now and get $3,000 off! we are back with a moment that fans of abba have been we are back with a moment that fans of abba have been apparently waiting on for 36

long years. >> -- playing our song my friend how exciting was this. the iconic band altogether in public for the first time in nearly four decades for the launch of a group's one of a kind -- >> nbc's kelly cobiella was there. ♪ >> reporter: unmistaken iconic hits still streamed by millions today. now, abba is back. ♪ dancing queen ♪ >> you could say that we're celebrating almost half a century. >> those four friends all in their 70s now. debuting a few virtual concert like no other. ♪ on stage, abba from decades past

using computer generated avatars, or in this caseeivoices from way back. >> with your voices. >> with our voices from, yes i say them with our voices, the original voices from the records. and my original guitar and benny's original piano. >> to recreate a digital version of their 30 year old several, the swedish sensation spent weeks performing each song in motion capture suits and a specially built stockholm studio. >> over five weeks. >> five weeks. >> yes we came to work every morning and one or two songs that day because there were takes and retakes. >> sounds exhausting >> it was very exhausting. >> reporter: george lucas's industrial lighting magic helped bring them to life. >> we had a vision of the audience detecting with the avatars. emotionally. they want to believe

they want to be there. >> reporter: abba voyage will feature more than a dozen of the band's biggest hits and a few new ones too >> reporrenother album is there a world tour? >> no no i think this was our last album. but that's -- that's us. the avatar have a long life. >> taking you back in time, as long as you believe. for "today." kelly cobiella, nbc news london. ♪ >> okay. >> there you go. thought you would get fired up for that carson? >> just ahead we are -- no i'm fired up >> let's fire up the grill >> kevin bledsoe in the house

and his barbecue is ridiculous his food is the intersection of the streets of compton california and the country roads of texas the story is good. he's got a deb fanduel and draftkings, two out of state corporations making big promises to californians. what's the real math behind their ballot measure for online sports betting? 90% of profits go to the out of state corporations permanently. only eight and a half cents is left for the homeless. and in virginia, arizona, and other states, fanduel and draftkings use loopholes to pay far less than was promised. sound familiar? it should. it's another bad scheme for california.

for state controller, only yiu will save taxpayers money. wait, who, me? me? no, not you. yvonne yiu. yvonne yiu. not me. good choice. for 25 years, yiu worked as an executive at top financial firms. managed hundreds of audits. as mayor, she saved taxpayers over $55 million. finding waste. saving money. because... yiu is for you. yiu is for you. exactly. yvonne yiu. democrat for controller.

and we're back with "today" foodie to morning to fire up the grill and help you dive into the holiday weekend. and kevin bledsoe just released his first barbecue cook book. what do you want readsers to know. >> this book is family. that is a what it is all about. fathers day, memorial day, like sunday dinner. every page on that book is like sunday dinner. open it up. enjoy it. enjoy your family. show some love >> use the recipes you were confident as a kid to stay out of trouble. you would go visit your grandma in texas she talks the low and slow barbecue way >> i've been doing it low and

slow >> i'm going to work on this rub for you. keep it fast a little pepper. a little cumin a little garlic. >> is there a secret to this >> i'm not going to tell you everything i'll tell you a little bit garlic salt. >> is that my brew >> yeah. where is my cognac >> a little chili powder >> we have the eaters tasting it >> this is good! sugarer and the salt. >> lot yeah. the best >> have some fun when you barbecue look at all these beautiful people out here. >> do you have to have a smoker? can you make your type of food without owning a smoker? >> i mean, you know, the book, that's the best thing about the book it shows you the same thing on a webber grill, a hibachi, whatever you need. >> good for the soul >> it's all about cooking. >> where does big momma park right now? >> no.

she's in l.a. right now. >> she had a smoker that had 20 briskets >> no, 75 briskets >> i eat 20 of them. all right. let's move it down >> there is a lot of sugar in this oh, yeah >> let's keep moving how long you going to cook it on the grill, kev >> low and slow. like 6'4." >> 3 1/2 hours >> all right >> then when they get done, we're going to eat. >> what do you like with ribs? >> potato salad, greens, mac and cheese >> you have eddie right here >> yeah. let me whip this up. >> i can do that >> get my hands dirty. >> and the thing about the potato salad, don't put pecans in your damn poe taught yoe salad. >> you have to pick up the

cookbook it has great stories kev brought it to california all we knew is quinoi and kale thank you. check it out thank you. come back next hour. all the recipes on today.com/food we're back after your local news chef, thank you so much. i appreciate you very much guys >> amazing >> enjoy >> after your local news good morning. thousands in the bay area will be heading to napa this memorial day weekend. this comes as covid cases are writing for the health and safety remains top of many

people's minds. tonight's headliners metallica, 21 pilot headlines tomorrow night. on sunday it will be pink. gates open at 11:00 this morning. happening now crews are fighting a early morning church fire. we will take a look at how parishioners are coming together and what the pastor is saying. also, the w's are on to the nba finals. see you at midday.

humans and dinosaurs can coexist.

i could use your expertise. we're on the verge of extinction. let's all try to stay positive.

this morning on the third hour of "today." holiday weekend. the rush under way to get away from packed airports to high gas prices. we're going fill you in on what we all need to expect when we hit the road. and flight savers. the airplane gadgets that can make the schlep a little smoother. and fire up the grill. what's better than a smoked brisket for a summer cook out? nothing. we've got the star of monday's barbecue. "today," may 27, 2022. live