good morning. new york city tragedy. a massive fire tears through an apartment building near the bronx zoo. at least 12 people killed including 4 children, many more injured. >> the worst fire tragedy we have seen in this city in at least a quarter-century. >> dramatic video from the scene, showing firefighters racing desperately to save trapped residents. an investigation under way. we're there live. america on ice. that dangerous deep freeze gripping the nation, getting even worse. 220 million americans now dealing with bone-chilling temperatures. records being s

the country. more misery on the wayunpress d. the tightest security ever for new year's eve revelers in the wake of two terror attacks in the past year. those stories plus apple's apology. the tech giant fesses up to slowing down older iphones and offers a new solution. jackpot weekend. let the run on powerball tickets with 7$750 million starting tonight. and driving while hungover. >> it feels like the flu mixed with -- >> before you celebrate new years, a new warning about the dangers of getting behind the wheel too soon after a night of drinking. >> this is tough. you have to focus so hard. >> today, friday, december 29th, 2017. >> from nbc news, this is "today," live from

>> good morning. welcome to "today." we certainly appreciate you joining us on this friday morning. savannah and hoda are off today. >> it's a busy friday morning. a lot to get to, starting with the devastating fire in new york city. the most devastating fire this city has seen in decades. this is a live look above the scene this morning. >> that fire started around 7:00 last night. the flames swept through everything, through every floor of the apartment building near the bronx zoo. families who managed to escape were out in the streets on one of the coldest nights of the year. anne thompson has the latest. anne, good morning. >> reporter: good morning, sheinelle. this morning, we are learning more about the victims. 12 vibctims in all, 4 are children. the ages are 1-year-ol 1-year-old,-year-old and a 7-year-old, those are among the dead. several people were injured, including six firefighters who were taken to the hospital a

in near-zero windchills. this morning, at least a dozen people are dead, including four children, after a massive fire ripped through this bronx, new york, apartment building. in frigid conditions, 160 firefighters responded, battling the four-alarm blaze that tore through the building of 20 apartments. >> we have people on the fire escape of the front of the building. they're on their way down now. we need a rush on the ambulance. we got a 1045, a child. >> i think it's my building that's on fire. what happened was, it wasn't actually my building. it was build thing across the street. by the time i got downstairs, the fire had escalated from one apartment to two, two almost to three. all i see is a bunch of kids on the fire escape, cold and with no jacket, no pajamas, no nothing. >> reporter: the fire creating heavy, black

bring it under control, as they rush to rescue residents. >> i saw people being carried out of here today, guys. it's overwhelming. those two little kids throwing out the trash with their mother. an hour or so later, i'm seeing them being wheeled off. >> the fire spread into this building. people died on various floors of the apartment. >> reporter: mayor de blasio calling the blaze a tragedy the city hasn't seen in nearly 25 years. >> we're here at the scene of an unspeakable tragedy, in the middle of the holiday seasons. this will rank as one of the worst losses of life to a fire in many, many years. >> reporter: the victims range in age from 1 to 63 years old. this morning, four people are fighting for their lives. they are in critical condition. here at the scene behind me, you can see all of the firefighters. the attention now turns to figuring out what just

sheinelle and craig? >> anne, thank you. now, to the latest on the deep freeze that has hundreds of millions of americans firmly in its grasp. if you thought it's been cold this week, just wait. we have complete coverage this morning including what you can expect to face on new year's eve. we start with nbc's ron mott in chicago. ron, good morning. >> reporter: hey, craig, good morning to you. cold, obviously, is the word of the day. all the way from the northern rockies to the northeast and new england. going into this holiday weekend with morning lows in the single-digits or below zero. and now, the countdown's begun for when these temperatures will start warming up again. this morning, it's so cold, boiling water immediately turns to snow. >> this cold is on a different level. >> i'm freezing. >> the national weather service in nashville is calling it #stupidcold. >> reporter: on mt. washington in new hampshire, temperatures plunging to 34 degrees below zero. the windchl,

below, with 110-mile-per-hour gusts. in new york city, famous fountains transforming into ice sculptures. today, millions of americans are in the grip of a big chill. in chicago, this mailman is used to braving these kinds of elements. rain, sleet, snow, ice, you have to be out here. what's it like? >> it's rough. we get service talks from my management to keep us prepared. >> reporter: if he had his pick -- >> i would take the snow over the ice. just a little bit, though. >> reporter: in erie, pennsylvania, people are digging out. >> i've run out of places to throw the snow. >> reporter: and cats, too. after 65 inches of snow in just 4 days. in minnesota, a headache on the roads. more than 1,100 crashes and 330 spinouts on thursday alone. but the rapid snowfall is ideal for the slopes, from michigan -- >> it was the perfect

>> reporter: -- to wf est virginia. >> great time to get out. >> reporter: sledders and skiers taking advantage of the deep freeze. here in chicago, we expect the temperatures to warm up to close to 20. that will feel nicer than it has all week. the bad news, we have snow in the forecast. >> a balmy 20 degrees in the windy city. >> let's bring in dylan in for al this morning. >> the cold is here. you don't need me to tell you that. i will tell you it will get colder as we go into monday morning. the first day of 2018. we have still some windchill advisories in some areas, especially across upstate -- northern new england, across central maine, we have windchills about 10 to 40 degrees below zero. that's just a taste of what's to come. the arctic air continues to pour down. current temperatures this morning, sioux falls 6 degrees but the windchill is 7 below. detroit feels like 2 below. louisville feels like 16 degrees this morning. in the northeas

lows. bridgeport, connecticut, 8 degrees. islip, 11. la guardia, 12. the windchill isn't that bad in baltimore. but as the winds pick up, the windchill will become more of an issue. let's look at what happens when we get to monday morning. pierre, south dakota, 20 degrees below zero, actual air temperature. chicago, 9 degrees below zero. in atlanta, 23 degrees after being in the teens. we are looking at monday to be the bottom of this whole thing. it's going to warm up a bit, not much. but monday will be the coldest. >> okay. >> thank you, dylan. that bitter cold, combined with concerns over security, has officials in this country taking extra precautions for new year's eve. stephanie gosk with more at times square and the biggest celebration. steph, good morning. >> reporter: craig, good morning. there's layer after layer of security here ines

many of them on response to a specific kind of threat. there's been multiple attacks in this country, with different tactics used over the last year. and that means one thing -- even more security here on new year's eve. this weekend, as the countdown to 2018 begins, the nypd will be out in force. >> people will be safe. and they should feel safe, too. the nypd and our partners are well-prepared. >> reporter: police say they are upping security in the wake of two high-profile terror attacks. in response to last october's truck attack that claimed the lives of eight people, 125 garages near times square will be closed and sealed. and sand-filled trucks will be used to block off streets. after an attempted suicide bombing just two weeks ago, police say they're adding new training for officers. >> we have prepared a tactical bulletin, a response to suicide bombers. you'll see an increase of heavy

1,000 cameras. >> reporter: on the street, the increased police presence puts many at ease. >> it makes you feel better. >> we came here worrying a little bit about it. it's all right now, i guess. >> reporter: sunday night, an estimated 2 million people are expected to watch the ball drop in times square. police banning backpacks and other large containers. all garbage cans in the area will be removed. and to route out any possible explosive explosives, vapor-sniffing canine units will be deployed. >> we're putting out more dogs and more observation teams. >> reporter: authorities are keeping an eye on hotels, after a mass shooter killed 58 people from inside a resort along the las vegas strip last october. uniformed officers will be inside times square hotels, along with multiple response teams throughout midtown. the nypd, not taking any chances,

safe during the biggest party of the year. new york officials emphasize they know of no serious, credible threat so far. the biggest danger on new year's eve here in times square will most likely be this frigid cold. >> stephanie gosk, thanks. trump is making headlines after he gave a spur of the moment interview to the "new york times" at his golf club in florida. nbc's chief white house correspondent, hallie jackson, has more on that. hallie, good morning. >> reporter: hi, sheinelle. good morning to you. during his working vacation down here in south florida, trump has been relatively quiet. that all changed in this one-on-one talk with the reporter, where the president hit on everything from the special counsel, to north korea, to one of his biggest priorities come 2018. this morning, that impromptu interview with "the new york times," giving a gli

counsel's investigation. it makes the country look very bad. the president did not demand robert mueller stop his inquiry. quote, the sooner it's worked out, the bert it is for the country. insisting 16 times there was no collusion between his campaign and moscow, the president tells "the times," mueller's investigation doesn't bother me because i hope he's going to be fair. i think he's going to be fair. those comments, in contrast to some republicans, who have spent the holidays casting doubt on the department of justice, by, for example, describing them s disbarjingly as the deep state. >> there's those saying republicans are trying to work to discredit the department of justice and thus discredit the russian investigations. is that not what you're doing? >> no. i don't want to discredit them. i would like to see the directors of those agencies purge it. >> reporter: the psi

seemed, it was too bad his attorney general, jeff sessions, recused himself from the russia investigation. in perhaps a revealing comparison, praised former attorney general eric holder, because he protected president obama. totally protected him. adding, quote, i have great respect for that, i'll be honest. over his working vacation, president trump has mostly hunkered down at his mar-a-lago resort or at his golf club. that's where he spent a half-hour at lunchtime talking with "the times" reporter, alone with no staff. for the first time, the president acknowledged he has been soft on china on trade, as the white house encourages beijing to pressure north korea to stop its nuclear weapons program. president trump explaining that's because the only thing more important to me than trade is war. and on one of the president's top priorities come 2018, his trillion-dollar infrastructure plan. he tells "the times," i think we

so, lots of topics for the president in that interview. another one on twitter, where he talk talked climate change and seemed to take a swipe at the paris accord. in the east, it could be the coldest new year's eve on record. perhaps we can use global warming that our country, but not other countries, was going to pay trillions of dollars to protect against. bundle up. experts say you can't link local weather in one area to climbed change overall. and nasa says 2017 is the second-hottest year ever for planet earth. back to you. >> hallie, tell us more about the unexpected guests that i saw that you had yesterday on your msnbc show. what happened? >> oh, no. >> i had no idea. this is a moment, as you're watching, that kind of went viral. you can see over my shoulder, a real-life

we had three t-rexes fighting behind us. i guess people on twitter noticed. i got blown up. there's probably a metaphor for 2017 somewhere in there, guys. >> you're probably right. >> hallie jackson in west palm beach, florida, for us this morning. you be careful. >> i will, thank you. >> thank you, hallie. also this morning, it's official. democrat doug jones is the new senator from alabama, after his win was certified by the election board. jones heads to washington as the first democrat to hold the seat in a quarter-century. meantime, republican roy moore, still has not conceded. he fought election results by filing a last-minute legal complaint, claiming vo ining vo. jon merrill dismissed the objecti objections. he couldn't find evidence of fraud. how would you like to start the new year as a multimillionaire? starting tonight, you have a shot of winning not one, but two

nearly $750 million combined. tammy leitner is in miami with that. good morning. >> reporter: good morning, craig. somebody would be starting the new year a whole lot richer. that's because of something that's only happened once before. both the jackpots are up over $300 million. now, if you're feeling lucky, here's what you need to know. we'll start with the mega millions. earlier, they changed the format to increase the lottery winnings on that one. that drawing is tonight. and that jackpot is up to $306 million. the odds of hitting all six numbers are 1 in 303 million. on to the powerball. that drawing is tomorrow night. that's up to $384 million. you have a little better odds of winning this one. that's 1 in 292 million. now, if you're feeling lucky and you're going to play both, you should

winning both jackpots are 1 in 88 quadrillion. yes, we're talking with 15 zeros there. you have a better shot of getting hit by an asteroid. but experts say you can increase your odds of winning by joining a lottery pool. if 100 people play $10 each, that increases your odds by 100 times. we know that americans, if nothing else, are an optimistic group. this last year, americans spent more in lottery tickets than buying books, buying video games, going to the movies and going to sporting events. i've got my tickets. if you're feeling lucky, go out and get some. back to you guys. >> tammy leitner. >> should we be proud of that? >> the crew started collecting. >> already. >> let's do it. >> i never go in. you know i usually don't. this one, i think i might. >> it's because you never have cash on you. you can't go in. >> y

give us a look at the forecast before you stop working after you hit the powerball. >> not with those odds. we see an inch or two. so erie, pennsylvania will get it's a little icy near freezi drizzle this morning. it's average in the southw that's at the weather

area. if you're in the district, on radar, we're nice and dry. we'll dry as we go through but temperature will be about yester then we have snow moving in for coming up in a bit, we'll talk and that's your latest forecast. >> dylan, thank you. coming up, apple's new plan to make customers happy after admitting to intentionally slowing down the old iphones. an eye-opener ahead of your new year's celebrations. what happens when we try out a suit that simulates driving with a hangover. >> you look like me. >> it's a simulated hangover. >> minions don't care. >> t

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it is 7:26 on this friday, decemb 29th, 2017. i'm susan hogan. >> and i'm aaron gilchrist. princegeorge's county police this happened just across the the man was taken to the we have a chance to become a millio before the new year. the me millions drawing is at $306 million. tomorr powerball drawing is nowlet's get a check on the >> hey, our smooth commute

and no areas of congestion. watch the minor crash out bound 395 near the george washington and on metro blue line, not delays

it is 18 degrees in clinton. today, we're around 34 degrees could see passing flurries, otherw mostly cloudy. tomorr morning we have snow we'll be seeing snow falling in the middle teens, even cold

guys. >> all right. sheenayou. we'll another local news >> for now, back to the "today" ♪ ♪ it feels good to be back. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪

back at 7:30 on this final friday of 2017, december 29th. if you are in the area, come on by. come check out the tree. even the tree is shivering this morning. it is 14 degrees right now in midtown manhattan. there's some folks that are watching and listening thinking 14 degrees, that's balmy. >> it's really cold outside. more on the cold in a moment. we'll start with a check of our headlines with a devastating fire here in new york. >> tragedy in the bronx. at least a dozen people dead, even more injured, after flames tear through a new york city apartment building. >> this is the worst fire

a quarter-century. bone-chilling. >> the national weather service here in nashville is calling it #stupidcold. >> record cold temperatures turning boiling water into snow and fountains into ice sculpt e sculptures as americans wake up to freezing temperatures again. speaking out. days before he officially steps down, embattled senator, al franken, chokes up while thanking his wife for her loyalty, during an emotional event in minnesota. >> while i can never thank her enough for her love and support, i'm willing to spend the rest of my life trying. first date disaster. a dallas woman is arrested after allegedly doing 300,000 worth of damage to her date's art collection after becoming intoxicated and refusing to leave his home. and love is in the air.

a sky west pilot proposes to his flight attendant girlfriend during takeoff announcements, sending spirits sky-high. today, friday, december 29th, 2017. that's nice. >> that is really sweet. >> that's one way to do it. >> hurry up and land to you can give her another hug. that was sweet. new fallout this morni ing after apple admitted it slows down some aging iphone models. so, what's the tech giant going to do about it? nbc's joe fryer has that for us. joe, good morning. >> reporter: craig, good morning. in the wake of mounting criticism and lawsuits, apple has issued an apology, at issue, how the company has communicated how it slows down iphones with aging batteries. the tech giant says there's misunderstandings about this topic and is offering

replacement batteries. apple is facing harsh feedback from customers. we know you feel that apple let you down. they apologized. >> they apologized for miscommunicating thain didn't apologize for slowing down the phones. >> reporter: the tech giant is facing heat from critics who learned apple software updates can slow down iphones to compensate for aging batteries. the company says that's necessary to keep the phones from shutting down unexpectedly. several class action lawsuits filed by iphone owners, said that apple should have disclosed what it was doing sooner. >> i think it's a well thoughtout plan by apple to make sure the consumers come back and buy the latest and greatest phone. >> reporter: apple disputes this saying, we have never and would never do anything to intentionally shorten the life of any apple product or degrade the user experience to drive customer upgrades. the company adds, we've always wanted our customers to be able to use their iphones as long

describes what it says can cause rechargeable batteries to age factor. factors like time, how often a battery is charged. leaving a battery in a hot environment. now, the company is offering replacement batteries for $29, a $50 discount, to anyone with an iphone 6 or later, a deal that starts in late january. >> just like the tires of your car wear out and you can replace them, apple has to be clear about what happens when the battery in your phone wears out. this is a first step but there's a long way to go. >> reporter: one of the attorneys suing apple, the $29 battery is too late for those who spent 1,000 bucks on a new phone. next year, apple plans to issue a software update that gives customers information about the health of their battery help them determine if they should get a new one. with the battery, the phones should no longer run

a lot of frustrated apple fans. apple users. let's get a check of the weather from dylan. >> good morning, guys. we have midwes mounta the northern rockie here's that little bit of light we have snow through western lake-e will kick back so have all sorts of winter we have lake-effect snow warnin period of snow moving through. and cold. so it's going to just kind of so as we go through the night tonigh see the snow clevel we'll see that snow. we'll see a few flurries in the maybe cape coddle see a little

fast moving system. so quick one to two inches in you're naturally will see higher amount as high as 12 inches that's a look at the weather now here's a peek out your window >> many areas still in the teens. 16 in gaithersburg 18 clinton. 21 right now in washin throug the day to day, we'll be in the mid 30s by the aftern yester but go into the weekend, the snow moving in for your but again it will be below freezi that w sticking. sunday, cold and n s always, you full forecast 24/7 on the weather channel on cable. still ahead, the dangers of getting behind the wheel a morning after a night of drinking. the experiment you need to see before celebrating on new year's eve.

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getcontravenow.com. back at 7:41, with a timely warning ahead of new year's eve. of course, we all know you should never drink and drive. but have you ever been told not to drive hungover? >> i found that out firsthand when i recently got behind the wheel wearing a special suit that mimics the impairments you can experience long after a night of drinking. it's a warning we've all seen and heard, do not drink and drive. but what about driving hungover? we wanted to see for ourselves. so, we teamed up

michelle gore, the ford driving skills for life instructor, to test over the hangover suit. talk me through what we see here. first of all this, is extremely heavy. >> it is. >> reporter: first up, a weighted vest and ankle weights to make you feel heavy and groggy. >> i would go to the doctor, fyi. >> reporter: next, goggles to simulate sensitivity to light. and headphones that pulsate s noises and magnifies sound. you should not be driving. i went to a driving course to test it out. this is me driving first without the suit. >> you're turning too far to the left. >> this way? >> reporter: i can't do it without the suit on. are you kidding me? but this is me when i put t

it feels like there's a weight. oh, my goodness. okay. i would probably stop here and sleep. [ horn honks ] oops. that's the same cone. it's tough. you have to focus so hard. this is horrible. >> it's horrible but eerar eeri realistic. wrong window. that was horrible. at first i thought it would be silly, not realistic. but this is pretty realistic. it feels like the flu mixed with -- >> turn and take nine steps back. >> reporter: now, to the next challenge, a field sobriety test. oh, gosh. one -- can people really do this? okay. 1,001. 1,002. 1,003. 1,004.

1,005. did i pass or did i fail? >> you would have failed. >> reporter: according to sergeant james butler, there's only one way to truly sober up. >> nothing really works, just time. >> reporter: police say signs of hangover impairment can last 20 hours after consuming alcohol. a warning to drivers, as new year's approaches, one of the deadliest days. >> they sleep for a few hours and feel relieved and feel like the effects are gone. and you found out today, it's still in effect. >> reporter: a sobering reminder to always be aware of when it may be too soon to get behind the wheel. okay. i know i looked like a minion. but it really was realistic. you feel heavy. >> what was the point of the right eye thing? >> like eye sensitivity. you know how people wear sun dwla glasses. >> i thought it was to make you look more ridiculous. >> it's one of those things that people don't think

the trooper said he had one guy, he was doing contracting work. and he thought he was able to sleep it off. they told him, you're actually drunk still. this is the guy with the best of intentions. >> you need more time than you think you need. >> and again, the hangover suit is part of the ford driving school's for life program. teaching teens and parents the necessary skills for save driving. a lot of parents are like, you know what? i want my kid to try this. >> to be clear, though, when you were driving that car sober, it looked like you were having some issues. >> to be fair. >> you couldn't see over the wheel. >> i couldn't see over the hood. i put up the seat as high as i could go. what's going on in the orange room? >> in the orange room, how far would you go to see your favorite team play? one football fan's legal hail mary out of the un-stop right there! i'm about to pop a cap of "mmm fresh" in that washer. with unstopables in-wash scent boosters by downy.

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unexpected legal motion and the reason it's going viral this morning. carson? >> we have a little champagne taste testing going on this morning? is that happening now or later? oh, this one first. a lawyer in georgia is a die-hard university of georgia bulldogs fan. he and his brother got tickets to check out the game. they're going to the big game. they're playing the sooners in the iconic rose bowl. that's on january 1st. here's the problem. he's a lawyer and he's due in court the very next day and wouldn't be able to make it back in time. what does he do? of course, he files a spirited motion, to actually attempt to postpone the trial date. he writes -- get to some of it here. the 2018 rose bowl will be a momentous occasion for the dogs. this will be the second time the dogs appeared in the rose bowl. he went on to mention that the bulldogs head coach's mother was his english teacher. here's theul

judge. plaintiff's counsel has made it clear to this court that victory for the bulldogs hinges on nothing less than the very attendance of the plaintiff's counsel at the rose bowl. so, we have a new trial date. it's set for january 25th on one condition. should the bulldogs lose, patrick has to appear in court at 9:00 a.m. on january 3rd, to tell why he must not be held in contempt of court for the loss. >> he should add that to his resume. >> that was a good one. coming up, the truth about your new year's resolutions and how achievable they really are. and girl power. savannah steps into the ring with an 11-year-old boxing star. that's right after your local news. needles. essential for vinyl, but maybe not for people with rheumatoid arthritis. because there are options. like an "unjection™". xeljanz xr. a once daily pill for adults with moderate to severe ra for whom methotrexate did not work well.

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it is 7:56 on this friday, i'm susan hogan. let's get right to wtop's dave dildin and the first 4 traffic. good m >> good morning. a nonrush hour continues. beltwa no delays. maryla virginia. out bound 395 on the case bridge had one broken down. crowdi the left lane, not a it is a cold morning out there. ice forming on the potomac. whites ferry reportedly closed.

temper dropping in many areas. degree as well as dulles right now. it's 20 degrees in washington. 17 clinton. for today, 34 for a high temper mostly cloudy. can't the chance for otherw at tomorrow's starti clear out by noon. temper below freezing. with there snowfall which should be less than an inch, it will be sticking and icy s susan? >> all right. thanks

it's 8:00 on "today." coming up, deadly blaze. an apartment building in new york city going up in flames, killing 12 people, including 4 children. the city's deadliest fire in more than 25 years. >> in a department that's no stranger to tragedy, we're shocked by this loss. >> we're live on the scene. plus bone-chilling. >> i'm freezing over here. >> more than 220 million americans feeling the wrath of winter, as single-digit temperatures freeze the nation. with new year's eve approaching, is there any relief in sight? and extra detention. ♪ hey, hey, hey, hey >> we have a look

never-before-seen clip of "the breakfast club," sure to make fans full in love all over again. today, december 29th, 2017. >> it's a freezing day on the plaza. who wants a hand warmer? >> we're saying good morning to -- >> columbia, mississippi. al, in you're listening. >> dilly dilly. >> you asked her to marry you last night. >> and i said yes. >> we're check off the bucket list for -- >> my 70th birthday. >> your first trip to new york city and what's your first stop? >> a trip to the plaza. >> what's the best part of christmas vacation this year? >> being on the "today" show. >> that's so nice. that always makes me smile. welcome back to today. i'm sheinelle jones, with craig

savannah and hoda have the morning off. it's a busy friday morning. a lot happening. let's get to your news at 8:00. we start with that tragedy in new york city. a massive fire tore through an apartment building in the bronx last night, 12 people were killed including 4 children. nbc's anne thompson is at the scene with the latest. what do we know? >> reporter: good morning, craig. we're learning more about the victims this morning. we can tell you their ages range from 1-year-old to 63, including the four children. we know three of their ages. one was 1-year-old. another 2 years old and one was 7 years old. this fire erupted just before 7:00 last night and moved extremely quickly, tearing through the five-story building. it started on the first floor. but at this hour, investigators are not sure about what caused it. it moved so quickly, that people didn't have much time to get out of the building.

cold night, with windchills near zero, in just the clothes they had on. this morning, four people are in critical condition at local hospitals. we're told they are fighting for their lives. and here at the scene, investigators now begin the work of determining just what caused this tragic fire. craig? >> anne thompson for us this morning. thanks. let's talk about this weather. 220 million americans are battling subfreezing temperatures this morning. it's only going to get colder. nbc's ron mott is in chicago. ron, good morning. >> reporter: sheinelle, good morning to you. as you know, chicagoans are a pretty hearty group. i was talking to someone in the coffee shop saying it's brutal. and it's all about perspective. we're expecting temperatures to warm up in chicago to about 20 degrees. maybe 19 or so today, which will feel a lot warmer than it has all week long. unfortunately, we have snow in the forecast, as well as snow hitting the northern rockies that will d i

it's the cold that everybody is talking about, from here all the way into the northeast and new england. morning lows, all the way into the new year, will be single digits or even below zero. and check this out -- on mt. washington in new hampshire, they clocked near 90-below windchill. that's super sssuper, super col. boiling water turning to snow as soon as you pour it out. the ball will be counting down on sunday night. we'll be counting down when we can take some of the layers off. dylan is standing by with what we can expect this holiday weekend. >> ron was right. 82 degrees below zero was the windchill in mt. washington. i can't fathom what that would feel like. in duluth, it feels like 26 below. that's brutal. 3 in cleveland, raleigh, 16 degrees, the same as the windchill in boston. the air temperature is at 2

that cold extends down to texas and part officials the sous of . weathe we could see icy mix and rain midnig brutally cold 11 degrees in new york city. and then monday morning, we're but he sh you bottom out still stays cold. but monday morning should be as cold a it gets. ts. >> dylan, thank you. some sad news. showbiz legend rose

tied. she began her career as a toddler, billed at baby rose marie. as an adult, she reformed on broadway, television, radio films and on the stage in las vegas. a family spokesman said she died thursday at her home in los angeles. rose marie was 94 years old. now, to dramatic video of a failed getaway attempt in o oregon. police were chasing a man when he drives his car off a pier. the suspect gets out of the vehicle and he starts to swim away. but eventually, he turns around and some marine workers plucked him out of the water. he was treated for hypothermia. he was booked on felony charges of burglary and attempting to elude police. much more ahead, including a visit from mr. tom brokaw. tom caught up with a family described as the bravest in america. also

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♪ what glorious feeling i'm happy again, ♪ ♪ just singing, singing in the rain. ♪ and welcome back. the end of the year is a good time to reflect on what really matters. things like family, things like service to this country. tom brokaw is here this morning, along with a family from his south dakota hometown, with whom he shares a very special connection. we're going to talk to you and talk to them in just a moment. but first, their story. >> reporter: cory and jenny have come to new york for some holiday sightseeing. but more important, they're here

their children, kylie and conner. they wanted to see the 9/11 memorial and museum. >> this wall didn't breech. it became a symbol of strength and resilience. >> reporter: a reminder of that horrendous day that america was attacked. >> all of the first responders were in the north tower. >> reporter: the attack that launched america into a war, that is still under way. the war that almost killed their father. cory and his national guard outfit from south dakota were hit by an i.e.d. three of his friends were killed. that was 12 years ago. and three long hospital stays. his wife, jenny, would not give up. she got him home, damaged but alive. their hometown pitched in to build a house to accommodate his wounded body. jenny constantly nourished their love aar

hawaiian beach. the three of us appeared on oprah to remind everyone that those who survive but return home wounded, for them, the struggle never ends. where were you that morning? >> cory was at work that morning. and he just -- i remember him saying, i just called the guard, what can i do? where do i need to be? >> reporter: this trip is part of that constant renewal to understand his sacrifice. why is it important to bring your family here to do this? >> this is, you know, where dad was injured fighting for our country because of terrorists who caused all of this. >> reporter: and you're living with the consequences of what happened. >> this is a huge part of their life. >> reporter: this is why they wanted to come. that's great. you got a heck of a family, cory. and remember the sacrifices of

craig, i've stayed in touch with this family, in part, because they're emblematic of so many families across the country. we forget that 60,000 wounded veterans come back. and some of those who came back well later developed ptsd. and they're part of a hidden part of american life. and we have to keep reminding everyone about the sacrifices they made because they're considerable. >> i know they're from your hometown. but there's another connection between you and the family, as well. what's that? >> when they went to iraq, they were living in the house that my father built, a house i used to visit in those days. it was too small and too many steps to get up and down. the community pitched in and built him a house that's much easier for him to get around in. and got him a car so they could do things. community by community across the country, people have to step up and help the veterans because in too many an

too far away from a v.a. hospital or a facility that can help them through the day-to-day facilities. >> we're delighted to have the family along with us this morning. let me start with you. i know it's been 12 years, now, since your life changed forever. what has that time been like for you? >> well, i think it's gone fast and gone slow at the same time. we always say, this is our new normal. and we just, you know, started going day-by-day. we still go day-by-day. whatever the day brings us. >> has it gotten easier? >> has it gotten easier? yes and no. yes with his injuries and no with their schedules. >> exactly. >> kylie, i know you visited the 9/11 memorial and museum. how was that for you? >> i just think it shows that this time in the world, there's no time whenhe

and that's all i've known. i haven't had a time in my life where there's not a war going on somewhere, some place. >> was there part of the museum that impacted you more than other parts? >> seeing the last wall just standing there alone with all the different police force and the firefighters, it really hits you. >> jenny, how about you? how was the experience? >> well, i must say about this family, they're so typical of the families out there. they get through life day-by-day. and what happens in too many communities and this happened as well, some of his earlier friends said they couldn't come around because it was too hard for them. too hard for them? come on. but they made a whole army of new friends since then. and they do a lot of things with other wounded families that are going to the mountains and having retreats and so on because you can identify with

>> yep. that's one of the nice things, the friends we have made through the wounded warrior project and other wounded warriors, they understand what's going on. we don't need to tell our story. we can say we had a bad day and they understand it. and they connect with cory on not just that brotherly bond, but also that injured bond. >> we were in an audience together in south dakota. and i didn't expect to see him there. so, i said, how is it going to the middle of the audience. and he said, it's going really well. he said it through jenny. he said, i can pick out cool girls and hot cars. >> conner, how about you? what are you into these days? >> just mainly sports and -- just, that's mainly it. >> this is a big nfl family. >> uh-oh. who is the team? >> he he

they will be proud to know that. they gather on sundays. that's a way they stay together, as well. we wanted them to be here in part because we wanted the rest of the country to know this goes on in so many families and so many places. and this family has been so brave and so enterprising in how they dealt with it. >> the bravest in america. >> yeah. >> thank you so much for your service, cory. thank you to the family, as well, for being a shining example. mr. brokaw, always good to have you. >> great to be here. let's send it over to dylan for a check of the weather. it's g to be a warm end to 2017. temper will be running averag l.a. should hit friday today, albuqu in the 60s. tucson 60s friday and saturday. 77 sunday. so that's one part of the we have this little system that

so we'll see a brief one to two well. this try to make its way it's going to be a trigger to six to 12 inches around the that's look at the weather now here's a peek out your window >> still have very cold temper 12 in frederick. 17 in clinton. for today though, we'll see the chance passing flurries. mids. so that's about ten degrees fortomorrow, we have snow could see about less than an we could see icy spots too going >> and that's your latest forecast. guys? >> all right. thank you, dylan. guess what time it is. >> what are we doing? >> 's

with new years around the corner, it's the time of year that so many of us vow to make a change in the new year. "the huffington post" asked therapists to weigh in on how achievable resolutions really are. they graded the resolutions on a scale of one to five. one being the most attainable. five being the most difficult to accomplish. first up, a lot of people want to lose weight. >> oh, yeah. there you go. >> therapists gave the resolution a three. makes sense. another common goal to get organized, this is more achievable, with a grade of one. we can all do it. >> that's not the most achievable. >> well, the therapists say it is. have you ever done this next one? learn to say no. they gave this one a three, as well. this one might surprise you. travel more. this got a one. they say that's because you consider day trips. that's still a trip. here's

resolution -- spend more time with your family and friends. they gave this a two. learn a new skill or take up a new hobby, people put this one off, which they gave a three. do you have new year's resolutions? >> same ones for me. >> what are they? >> i want to spend time with friends and family. >> it's a three. it's attainable. >> i feel so common and basic. everything i named, i have. >> dylan, what's yours? >> this year, i want to focus on going to church more. i was doing really well when calvin was born. but his nap time is the same time as our mass time. we fell off a little bit. i want to make sure i get back into that. >> that's a good one. you want to tell america your other one? >> i need to stop biting my nails. >> i thought you were going to do the singing one. >> you're not going to start singing, are you? >> i want to know if it's possible to teach this voice to sing. >> it's not. >> i want to know. >> i'll turn my chair around. let's play a little game. you sing.

>> come on, dylan. >> no. >> here you go. >> no, i can't. it is so bad. my whole family is cringing. >> she wants to sing to calvin. and wants calvin to be like, my mommy can sing. >> if he's the only one i sing to. >> what's your new year's resolution? >> mine is to drink more. i was slacking off the second part of the year. more water. >> hydration. big "pop start." i revolve to get through "pap sta pop start." jay-z and beyonce has coupled up for a new video. it's called "family feud," and the couple team up, as well as blue ivy, and here it is. ♪ >> hey, now. what's going on here? the carter family headed to church. z

for a confessional. interesting imagery there. no word if the couple's other two children will be featured. the full music video will be released at 4:44 today. that coincides with jay-z's album. and you can watch it on title. pink, the singer, not only vocal on stage but off it, as well. known for being open and honest as well as an advocate for others to do the same. she felt a heartfelt moment she experienced between her and a fan. here's what she wrote on twitter. a sweet momma came up to me in the grocery store and how she gets strength from my parenting because i'm not afraid to mess up in public. we wish our mommas can give ourselves and each other a break. other parents can share that sentiment, too. pink, a brother mother of two. her daughter and her son just turned 1. it's been more than 30 years since "the breakfast

you remember that one? 30 years ago it was released. the movie became an instant classic. five high school students from different walks of life. they serve detention. do kids serve detention anymore? >> no. >> by the end of the day, they see each other in a different light and spend time each other. they have the release of "the breakfast club." 50 minutes of never-before-seen nottage. there's basket case and the princess, ally sheedy. they're in the ladies room. never saw that moment. they added some deleted scenes and interviews with the cast. that special will be released on january 2nd. that's your "pap start." "daly click" is a good one. we've been showing reactions to christmas gifts all this week. none compared to this young man. have a look. >> open it. >> banana.

>> yay. >> i got banana. i got banana. >> great. >> that's 2-year-old mason, who apparently is half-human/half-minion. he's thrilled to get a banana. had i known it was that easy to make your kids happy at christmas, i would have saved a lot of money. that video has gone viral. the priceless gift of a banana. put it in your phone for next year. >> and genuine. >> not even a great banana. look at it. >> i was thinking it the same thing. >> that was wrapped in the box for a while. >> that is the third minion's reference through this broadcast. i hope the comcast bosses are taking note. synergy. >> not even playing. still to come, an inspiring 11-year-old who shines in the boxing ring. and what's new year's eve without bubbly? we're sampling

taste and every budget, as well. we'll do some day drinking. >> she's been drinking all morning. >> after your local news.

8:26 on this friday, december i'm aaron gilchrist. let's with a look at the your 4 traffic. hey, dave. >> aaron, we're watching the nonmor rush hour continue. we'll and see if any volume delays build. right now clear sailing on the let's head off to maryland. southb 197 before the bw parkwa crash reported. it's so frigid out there, ice on the potomac, whites ferry closed today. >>right. thank you, dave. stay

mid 30s for a high today. that's about ten degrees warmer sunshi with increasing clouds. can't rule out some passing flurri the mo

and it will mostly be about less than an inch. but we go into 2018, it will year. aaron? >> thank you. get the latest news and weather

oh, we are back at 8:30, now, on this friday morning, december 29th, 2017. last friday of the year. and another morning of gold stars for every, single one of you who took the time to be out here on the plaza on one of the coldest days of the year. >> this has to be one of the biggest crowds i've seen. >> this is fantastic. >> my goodness. >> good morning. >> okay. >> and they're so energetic, too. they're so cold, they're delirio

>> i wonder, if we just let them go, they would keep cheering. >> they haven't seen humans. >> they haven't. we're talking so much about the cold. >> yes. >> i'll bet there's two people on the plaza who are extra cold this morning because they're from scottsdale, arizona. when is the last time you were this cold? >> never. this is the first time ever. >> i hear there's a story behind this sign. you brought this all the way from arizona. >> yes. all the way from arizona. >> through security and everything. >> through security. through the check-in, on top of where the luggage is. >> and it's still intact. thank you for all your hard work. thanks for being here. freezing with us all. >> i love that. the fact you made it at home. thank you for coming. coming up, an 11-year-old girl who pulls no punches in the ring. a look back at one of our favorite stories from 2017. also, we'll pop those bottles. we'll show you the best wines and champagne

you plan on raising a glass this new year's eve. how about another check of the into 2018. so let's take a look at the maps ais kro the west coast on monday chilly out in pasadena, califo the rose parade. 48 degrees. partly cloudy skies. it will warm up a bit though. that's a little early out there. then back on the east coast on it is going to be very frigid. 17 degrees by game time at 1:00. but it will be mostly sunny. elsewh across the country, light snow back th clahicago. that w into the lake-e off the great the weekend. it's icy down near charleston, we have freezing drizzle this

out insouthwest. in the northwest though, we have anothe system that is making that means heavy snow in the that's look at the weather now here's a peek out your take a look right now. 20 degrees in the district. down to 15 in manassas, 19 at take look at how your day is it's to be cold, folks. highs to the low to mid we could see a few flurries. for most part, mostly cloudy your storm team four ten day outloo snow chances. that's going to be reserved for by afternoon, we should >> for your weather anytime, you can head to the weather channel on cable. give a nice wave. back to you, craig. >> dylan, thank you. we are wrapping up our special week-long series, "the best of today." this is where we've been highlightingom

2017. >> this is a good one. near the top of that list, a spunky tween. savannah got into the ring with a pint-sized champ that packs a mean punch. >> reporter: jessalyn silva can pack a punch. were you into princesses. >> i liked princesses when i was smaller. when i got into boxing and even when i was little, i didn't really like dolls because it was just like -- they creeped me out a little bit. >> reporter: maybe you can be a princess that boxes. ♪ jessalyn, what do you love about boxing? >> what i love about boxing is that i can express myself in so many ways. like, just by hitting the bag. and it's really fun. >> reporter: when you say you're expressing yourself when you hit the bag, what are you saying? >> when you hit the bag hard, you're saying, i got some strength. so, like, i got strength. so, don't mess with me or right in your stomach.

>> reporter: you have a nickname, right? >> uh-huh. >> reporter: what is your nickname? >> my nickname is jesszilla. >> reporter: at 75 pounds, jesszilla works out for nearly two hours a day, four days a week. how did you get into boxing? >> i got into boxing when i was 7 years old. and my dad just went to the gym to lose some weight and snuftuf. i wanted to do it, too. i started to hit the bag. next thing you know, i was working on my one-two and my dad was still working on his jab. >> reporter: jessalyn's proud single dad is her biggest fan. he supports her every step of the way. >> she's got that fighting spirit, though, even at a young age. >> reporter: matches are usually against boys since not too many girls compete. are people surprised to hear you're a box center. >> they're really surprised. >> reporter: what do they say? >> they're like, wow, you are really good. people that don't like what i'm do t

boxing? girls shouldn't be boxing. it's a man's sport. they didn't see me before. >> reporter: when did you realize, i might be kind of good at this? >> i started to notice it when i won my first fight. i was like, wow, i'm actually really good. >> reporter: if you want to be in this sport, you got to take a punch. >> uh-huh. you have to take a punch. >> reporter: are you taken some hard punches? >> i can say i've taken some hard punches. i've taken some tough sparring and some tough fights. it's all lessons to teach you how to get better. >> reporter: i thought she could teach me how to throw a few punches. one, one-two. you play with all-boys. >> uh-huh. the first time i ever sparred, i didn't know it was going to be that tough. so, i cried. that's how i knew it takes like guts to get inside that ring. you have to have a heart for boxing. and i know i have a heart for boxing. >> reporter: bss

and brawn, jess made honor roll and is proud of her achievements in and out of the ring. >> i got this medal for being an honor role student. >> reporter: do you have a favorite muhammad ali quote? >> yeah. float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. his hands can't hit what his eyes can't see. >> reporter: that's what you said. >> you have to sting like a bee, wait for the punch. and you have to be fast so their hands can't hit what their eyes can't see. >> reporter: what's your goal? what's your biggest dream? >> my biggest dream is to go to the 2024 olympics. i'm going to win the gold and represent for my country and all women. float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. >> we're going to save that video. >> i like that. >> i got a feeling that come 2024, that will probably happen. >> good stuff. i've enjoyed these stories this week. >> so

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and we're back with today's "hassle-free holiday." it wouldn't be a new year's eve celebration without some bubbly. this morning, we're running down the best wines and champagnes to get your party really popping. leslie, good morning. you have the greatest job in the world. >> i drink for a living. >> this is quite the selection you brought. where do we begin with the sparkling wins, the champagnes. >> all of these wines except for the handful at the end are under $20. >> 90% down this table -- >> $20. you don't have to spend a lot of time to have a great time. we're going to get the party started right here. i'm going to have you do a little exercise, getting ready for the new year. up and down and up and down. some of the best bubbly bargains are

you have a spanish wine here. they've been making wine since about 1552. a little bit of time on that. it's a wonderful wine. >> a beautiful bottle, too. and i call this glacial bubbly. >> we have a cooking table down there with the gang. >> hi. how are you? >> follow along. >> you have the -- i'm going to pour my punch for you. >> these are the $10 ones? >> these are available. $10 and about 12 to $15. and i have the prosecco. it's an italian sparkler. okay. it is perfect, the belini is the classic cocktail with peach juice. this is the belini

one part beach juice, to two parts prosecco. >> it's not too sweet. you can add a little bourbon or vodka if you want to, too. these are bubbly bargains. party wines. >> okay. >> i like to impress people for less. both these wines, $15 and $19. trento doc. you have the rotari. >> on the left? >> that's your wine number one. isn't that wonderful? this is about $19. this is from around the city of trento in northern italy. this the one of my favorites. you don't have that. >> this is the rose sparkling. why are roses so popular? >> because they're so delicious. i have a tattoo on my leg of rose. >> a story for another day. >> we don't have enough time for that. i love it with popcorn. and i do

isn't that beautiful? i remember sparkling wine is wine with sparkle. you can serve it throughout a meal. this is a beautiful new zealand rose. >> how is the new zealand one? >> that is good. mcbride sisters, with pulled pork. that's what i do at my party. >> people at home probably think they taste identical. >> they don't. and under $20. and this one i call my little -- did you like that? did you like the pulled pork? >> why is pork a good gapairing? >> pork and pino is the best pairing. this is moscato from asti. it's my fairy dust wine. >> that's like a port sparkling wine. >> isn't that gorgeous? and now, we're at the splurges. >> i need the key to open up the

did you splurge on us? >> no. >> these are just about $50. we have fantastic champagne. and only from champagne from the champagne region of france can be called champagne. >> five seconds, what makes a great expensive -- cristal is 300 bucks, versus a $15 battle. what makes it so great? >> the process and the time in the bottle. you have four years, this has been aged in the bottle. and you have fantastic history behind this. >> 11:59.59. >> you're back over there. >> anniversary, this side of the table. >> this has been a fun segment. thank you. if you're at home and you're trying to figure all this out, head to today.com/food. straight ahead, "america's got talent" winner, grace

>> happy new year. >> i'll see you later. i left you the cheap stuff. see yolater.u

"today" is proudly presented to you by citi. >> since being crowned the winner of "america's got talent" at the ripe age of 12 last year, grace vanderwaal's career has taken off. >> she was named one of music's rising stars by "billboard" magazine. launched her first tour and "just the beginning" is climbing the charts. performing the single, "so much more than this," here she is, grace vanderwaal. ♪ sit right here chillin' level low ♪ ♪ close you eyes and let it flow ♪ ♪ right here next to me when i hear your heartbeat, beat ♪ ♪ when the dial turns up and the music starts playing ♪ ♪ w

society ♪ ♪ doesn't matter how your hair looks or what they are thinking ♪ ♪ just what we are finding ♪ tom your foot and listen in ignore the world led the music cave in ♪ ♪ close your phone and breathe in the air ♪ ♪ you soon realize that there is something that is ♪ ♪ so much more than this it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ ♪ so much more than this it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ ♪ the whole crowd seems to like me now ♪ ♪ 'cause i think i'm cool but back when i was in school ♪ ♪ they found it easy to hate me ♪ ♪ funny how always these times are changing ♪ ♪ back then it was so easy to shatter ♪ ♪ but now, in the end, it doesn't matter ♪ ♪ tap your foot and listen

♪ ignore the world let the music cave in ♪ ♪ close your phone and breathe in the air ♪ ♪ you'll soon realize that there is something that is ♪ ♪ so much more than this it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ ♪ so much more than this it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ ♪ all of the talk and the talk from ya ♪ ♪ won't even matter when the lights come up ♪ ♪ all of the talk and the talk from ya ♪ ♪ open your eyes and just wake up ♪ ♪ do all the things that will matter to ya ♪ ♪ open your eyes and just wake up, oh, whoa ♪ ♪ tap your foot and listen in ignore the world, let the music cave in ♪ ♪ close your phone and breathe in the air ♪ ♪ you'll soon realize that there's something that is ♪ ♪ so muc

it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ ♪ so much more than this it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ ♪ so much more than this it is what it is ♪ ♪ so much more than this oh, oh, oh, oh, oh ♪ >> love it. grace vanderwaal, thank you. we're back in a moment. this is "today" on nbc. >> what a voice. >>

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it's the end of the year. everyone is in the mood to celebrate. dylan, let's celebrate some birthdays. >> my drink is empty. we'll refill while we spin around the smucker's jars and wish happy birthday to lovely

she says her secret to longevity is visiting the beauty parlor every week. margaret is an ice cream lover who is celebrating 100 years. she's a proud mother of nine kids. happy 102nd birthday to walter hayes jr. of pennsylvania. how cool is this? walter designed and built an 18-hole grsolf course. irene dunham is 110 years old. age is just a number for this proud gardenuarardener from bat michigan. she bought herself a car when she was 100 and recently renewed her driver's license. millie ashton from norwalk, connecticut, is celebrating 106 years. she loves to sing and volunteer in her church's choir. and let's wish a happy 101st birthday to e.

is his wife because he how well she took care of him. how sweet is that? if you have someone you want to celebrate, head to tod today.com/celebrates and include a picture. we're back with a look at what's ahead on "weekend today." tomorrow, we're going to have the latest on this relentless deep freeze. just won't quit. it's impacting new year's eve celebrations across the country. we'll look at that. on sunday, willie is looking back at the best of his sunday sitdowns, with everyone from movie stars, musicians and ceos and a president. that's on can't sunday today" with willie geist. >> a great year of that show. willie had incredible guests. great candid conversations. >> how are you bringing in the new year? >> i'm not this year. nbc had a football game on. now, they don't have a football game. >> you personally? >> i've been in times square ever year since

i don't know what i'm going to do. >> i'll invite famous people to your house. >> i don't know. >> are you going to be awake at midnight? >> i don't think so. we need to put on a pot of coffee to stay up. i'm not used to having this day off. >> what are you doing to do? how are you going to bring it in? >> i will be making coffee. >> i have a feeling we'll be doing a church service. i'll pray for the rest of you. >> we all have kids. >> "megyn kelly today" is ahead. first, your local news and weather.

it is 8:56 on this friday, let's get a look at your commute with wtop and your first 4 traffi good morning, dave. >> are directing traffic road. gettin by the crash at least check out the beltway free

no signs of any rush hour this mornin volume remain light. white speakerry

right now, 22 degrees. as head throughout the day, good amount of cloud coverage mostly cloudy. chance of flurries as we head tomorr is our best bet though susan? >> thamuch. can yo the latest news

this morning on "megyn kelly today" -- power from pain. a mother turns her addiction into redemption. then, throwing a new year's bash and don't want to invite the neighbors? we count down ways to navigate 2017's biggest night. plus, dreaming of your summer vacation? the points g is here with secrets of getting a bigger bang for your travel buck. all that and more on "megyn kelly today," right now. [ applause ] hi. hi. hello. hi, there. hey, everybody. welcome. welcome to the show, everybody. i'm megyn kelly. it's great to have you here. today, we have one