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allDAY is the official TODAY blog, your virtual window to Studio 1A and the people who make America's favorite morning show come alive. Whether it's exchanging views with the anchors and contributors or going behind the scenes with the producers, editors, camera people and more, we'll bring you the buzz here at 30 Rock, and we hope you will make this a regular part of your online routine. We want this to be a conversation, so please respond with your comments and questions directly to the blog, and we'll do our best to post what you have to say.



June 2007 - Posts

Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Weekend TODAY

Posted: Friday, June 29, 2007 6:37 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's what we're planning for this weekend:

Latest in London
Scotland Yard found two car bombs in London proper and they are believed to be linked. If the bombs did detonate as intended, officials believe the blasts could have killed hundreds. We will continue to follow this story and we'll have the very latest on this as it develops.

Buying a Home?
If you're in the market for a home you won't want to miss this. Real estate guru Barbara Corcoran will be here Saturday to tell us the 5 biggest mistakes home buyers make.

President Bush Hosts President Putin
On Sunday, President Bush will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kennebunkport, Maine. The presidents are expected to discuss security issues in light of the events in London today, as well as, trade, economics and nuclear power. Kelly O'Donnell will bring us a report about the meeting on Sunday.

Other Stories Planned for the Weekend:

  • Sat: iPhone Now Available
  • Sun: Concert Honors Princess Diana
  • Sun: Best Hot Dog Taste Test


We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Live from Studio 1A: iWANT an iPHONE!

Posted: Friday, June 29, 2007 8:53 AM by Elizabeth Neumann
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I've never been particularly tech-savvy.  I blame it on genetics - I grew up in a house without a microwave (we popped popcorn on the stove), no answering machine until I was eighteen, and when we got an intercom to communicate from the third floor to the first, my father still insisted on yelling into it because he didn't quite grasp the concept. 

Needless to say, I hear people buzzing about the latest tech gadgets and I don't even blink.  I know whatever it is will be so far out of my realm.  This morning I stopped by the control room and immediately sensed an excitement in the air.  All of our senior producers had a special twinkle in their eyes, and there was a group of people in the back clustered over something.  The cause of this giddiness?  An iphone of course.  Two guests from Apple were there showing it to the control room after their segment this morning.  WATCH VIDEO.  I smiled politely, chuckled about the room of adults looking like little kids in a candy shop, and walked over to take a glance on my way out.

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Thursday, June 28, 2007 10:38 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Who Is Gordon Brown?
He's the new Prime Minister of Great Britain. Tomorrow we'll have a profile on Gordon Brown.

Floods in Texas and Oklahoma
The storm clouds aren't budging from the skies over Texas and Oklahoma. Today, more rain poured from the sky in Texas and in Oklahoma the wet weather broke a 70-year-old record with the 15th straight day of precipitation. Tomorrow we'll tell you if the weather is going to let up in these areas.

What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • Microsoft's Next Generation of Gadgets
  • Supreme Court Limits Schools on Race
  • Hillary Duff Performs LIVE

We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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'Fugee' Power

Posted: Thursday, June 28, 2007 3:32 PM by Sam Go

(By correspondent Tiki Barber and producer Izhar Harpaz)

The most important power that any of us have is the power of influence.  Some people abuse that responsibility for personal gain or ill purpose. Others, however, use it to profoundly change the lives of those around them; Luma Mufleh is one of those people. After seeing a group of refugee kids playing soccer in a rundown neighborhood outside Atlanta, Georgia, she decided to start a soccer team.  And under her leadership "The Fugees" have become so much more than just a group of kids kicking around a ball on a grass field.

To her players, Luma has become much more than their soccer coach.  They depend on her for guidance, support, direction; to many of them she is their mother away from home. To some she has become "mom," plain and simple. When we first met Luma, we could feel that nurturing spirit in her. She has a capacity for caring for people she barely knows.  On the field, whether at practice or during a game, she is as tough a coach as they come: firm without being overbearing, she expects a lot from her players, and she doesn't mince any words in letting them know it. She is equally immovable when it comes to schoolwork. CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning For Friday

Posted: Thursday, June 28, 2007 2:44 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

Diana's Legacy
Matt will be in London tomorrow covering the special concert in honor of Princess Diana. We will have more from Matt's interview with Prince William and Prince Harry, as well as, an interview with Diana's brother Charles Spencer.

Arrest Made in the Madeleine McCann Kidnapping
Police in Spain have arrested an Italian man in connection to the kidnapping of 4-year-old Madeleine McCann. Early reports said the suspect may have extorted Madeleine's parents in exchange for information about their daughter's whereabouts. We'll have more on this story tomorrow.

Vocation Vacation
Looking for a break from work? Want to learn a new skill? Tomorrow we'll tell you about the concept of vocation vacations- getaway trips that offer a new tool in the career toolbox.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.

 

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Live from Studio 1A: Marlo Thomas Q and A

Posted: Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:13 AM by Elizabeth Neumann
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Marlo Thomas, television star, spokesperson for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and role model for many has been on the show over the past month doing segments asking women about marriage, divorce and careers, among other things.  Today I caught up with her in her dressing room to ask her about her experiences here and her ongoing work as an independent woman.

Q: What has it been like being on the other side of the camera, asking the questions to these women in the different segments?

Marlo: I think I've brought a lot of curiosity to the stories because I'm genuinely interested in what these women have to say - that's why it's been fun for me.  I want to hear what they went through in getting divorced or during marriage, the moment-to-moment feelings.  I don't have to come up with questions, because it's all things I really want to know.  I think it might be different if I was interviewing sports figures (laughs) but these are real women - it's fun.

CONTINUED >>

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Live from Studio 1A: American Beauty...

Posted: Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:38 AM by Elizabeth Neumann
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Yesterday afternoon I got a call asking me to help one of our associate producers, Nick Palladino, on a spot for this morning.  The spot was a "tease" for our new series coming up called "America the Beautiful" - our search for the most beautiful location in America.  WATCH VIDEO. 

To prepare the short video montage we had to pick iconic and beautiful images of America from vast archives of footage.  It was, to say the least, a daunting task.  To start off, Nick and I made a list of American landmarks and images we thought would fit the piece, and then we sorted through and found different shots and put them together to music. 

It was really interesting seeing what sparked our imagination, and it got me thinking about what is unique to our country.  Little league, a backyard, the Las Vegas strip, fireworks, Old Faithful - what captures our spirit and beauty?  

What images would make your list? 

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Wednesday, June 27, 2007 11:02 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Line Cutters
Who doesn't hate waiting in line? Can a new technology cut down the line and ease the process? Consumer correspondent Janice Lieberman will tell us about new self-service kiosks that may make waiting in line less tedious.

Lady Sues Starburst
Can a candy be too chewy? Tomorrow we'll tell you about a lady suing the parent company of Starburst.

What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • A look at Paris Hilton's first post-prison interview
  • Robin Williams tells us about his new movie, License to Wed
  • Radar... the world's largest horse


We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Thursday

Posted: Wednesday, June 27, 2007 2:40 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

Fires and Floods
There is a lot of bad weather activity across the country. Firefighters in Lake Tahoe, California are trying to contain the wildfire that is growing as strong winds continue to fuel the blaze. We also have an eye on the floods in Oklahoma and Texas. More storms are expected today in the region. We'll have the latest tomorrow.

iPhone Anticipation
The countdown is on for the release of the new Apple iPhone. Customers are lining up to purchase this hot new tech toy. Tomorrow we'll tell you why the iPhone already has such a buzz.

Firework Safety
The Fourth of July is right around the corner and soon fireworks will stream from the sky. As beautiful as the crackers are, safety should be top priority. Tomorrow we'll have a demonstration with pointers to keep your family safe at your own backyard firework show.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.

 

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Live from Studio 1A: Chatty Doctors

Posted: Wednesday, June 27, 2007 9:29 AM by Elizabeth Neumann
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When I was younger I used to hate going into stores and having sales assistants talk to me - asking about my clothes or offering to help me find things.  I also didn't like schmoozing with the woman who cut my hair.  In other words, I was incredibly shy.  One thing I always liked, however, was my pediatrician.  He was the nicest man.  He would tell me stories about his kids while getting ready to give me a shot so I wouldn't get too scared.  His chattiness made me look forward to doctor's visits, while a chatty sales clerk would cause me stress.

This morning we had a segment on chatty doctors - how doctors talking to patients about their personal lives can take away from the doctor experience and possibly hinder your health.  WATCH VIDEO.  Researchers visited doctors posing as patients and recorded conversations.  While some examples were extreme - one doctor comparing his or her weight with a patient's - I have to wonder if doctors chatting is actually a serious problem?

Everything in moderation of course - I do think comparisons between doctors and patients should be avoided - but I have to admit, I like having a personal connection with a doctor.  At the same time, if the conversation veers into a too-personal realm, it can also be awkward.  How can doctors walk the line of connecting with patients on a personal level without overstepping their boundaries?  Is it just a matter of common sense?  

Have you ever felt put on the spot by your doctor?  Do you think doctors should avoid personal conversations altogether?  Send us your thoughts... 

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Tuesday, June 26, 2007 6:04 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Wrestler Murder Suicide
We are following the story out of Georgia involving the apparent murder suicide of professional wrestler Chris Benoit. Tomorrow we'll look at what may have caused the former world heavyweight champion to strangle his wife and suffocate his son.

Picking a Contractor
You want the job done right and you want it to look nice, but a lot goes into selecting a contractor to work on your home. Real estate maven Barbara Corcoran will be here to tell us what you should look at when choosing a home contractor.


What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • Immigration Vote: Senate Revives Bill
  • What will the Sheriff's Report Say About Paris?
  • What is Nanny Nabbing?


We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Looking at for Wednesday

Posted: Tuesday, June 26, 2007 12:37 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

GOP Senator: Surge Not Working
A senior Republican senator took a firm stance on the Senate floor Monday saying the surge in troops in Iraq is not working. With another key Republican member of congress taking a stance against the war, will the administration re-evaluate the efforts in Iraq? We'll have an exclusive interview tomorrow with that Senator, Republican Richard Lugar.

Grounded
Four Hours. No air conditioning. Bad weather. No departure. And nobody was allowed off the plane. That was the scene aboard a Detroit bound flight out of JFK last Thursday. Mike Taibbi will have this story for us tomorrow. And our travel editor Peter Greenberg will tell us why these passengers were stuck and what you can do if you're ever a passenger in this situation.

Is It About The Patient or The Doctor?
Have you ever had that visit where somehow the time spent with the doctor was more about him or her than it was about your ailment? Tomorrow we'll look at a new study that suggests doctors may talk too much about themselves.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.


 

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Live From Studio 1A: Birth Order and IQ

Posted: Tuesday, June 26, 2007 10:15 AM by Dan Fleschner
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What do Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill and Oprah Winfrey have in common? All, of course, went on to become hugely successful in their respective fields, and all were first-born children in their families -- a potentially significant factor in the shaping of their intelligence.

According to a study published last week in the journal Science, first-born children tend to have a higher IQ than their younger siblings. This morning, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, parenting expert Michele Borba and Meredith discussed the study's findings and its implications. WATCH VIDEO

The researchers analyzed the IQ scores of 250,000 men in Norway between 1985 and 2004, determining that eldest children held an advantage of 2.3 IQ points over their younger siblings -- a small difference, but one that the researchers argued could have a significant impact on college admissions.

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Monday, June 25, 2007 10:46 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Cruise Can't Film in Germany
Why would Germany ban a film starring Tom Cruise from filming in the country? We'll tell you tomorrow what's keeping the movie star from shooting his latest movie there.

Sibling Smarts
Who has the highest IQ amongst your siblings? Does birth order matter? We'll tell you tomorrow what a study from Norway says about sibling IQs.

What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • The Cheney Vice Presidency
  • iPhone Frenzy
  • Intergenerational Friendship

We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Tuesday

Posted: Monday, June 25, 2007 12:39 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

Suspects in Court
We're watching the arraignment of Bobby Cutts Jr. and Myisha Ferrell this afternoon. Tomorrow we'll bring you the very latest in the murder case of pregnant mother Jessie Davis.

Tahoe Wildfires
This morning we woke up to the news of a blazing fire near Lake Tahoe, California. At lease 165 homes have been destroyed and about 1,000 people have been forced to leave their homes behind. We'll have an update on this wildfire as firefighters do their best to contain it.

Paris To Be Released
Paris Hilton is expected to be released from jail tomorrow. Will it happen overnight? Or will we see a similar spectacle as we saw in her entrance in the daylight. We'll have more on Paris' release on tomorrow's show.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.


 

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Live From Studio 1A: The 4-Hour Workweek

Posted: Monday, June 25, 2007 10:30 AM by Dan Fleschner
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Are you working too many hours? Tim Ferriss, author of The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere and Join the New Rich, thinks so.

He appeared on the show this morning (WATCH VIDEO) to discuss the ideas behind his book -- that people need to stop obsessing about work, constantly checking their email and feeling chained to their offices, and instead start using their work time more efficiently and embrace the opportunity to work from home or anywhere in the world.

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Monday

Posted: Sunday, June 24, 2007 1:53 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's what we're planning:

Tragic End
News came Saturday that the body of missing mother Jessie Davis was found in Ohio. Bobby Cutts Jr, the father of Jessie's unborn baby, has been charged with two counts of murder. An autopsy was planned for today. Tomorrow we'll have more information on this case.

Royal Love Back On
Reports on Sunday say Prince William and Kate Middleton are back on after a two month break. Is it coincidence now that the Prince is 25 (he celebrated his birthday Thursday) and doesn't need the consent of his grandmother to wed? Tomorrow Dawna Friesen will tell us about the rekindled love and when we can expect to see William and Kate together in public again.

Adult Swim
Sun umbrellas... beach towels... sunscreen... and kids. They're all likely to be found at the beach... but at one lakefront location in Chicago it's all those things except the kids. Tomorrow Janet Shamlian will tell us about a new "Kid Free Zone" along Lake Michigan.


Other Stories Planned for Tomorrow's Show:

  • Vice President Cheney's Unprecedented Power
  • Dr. Snyderman Explains Aspirin from A to Z
  • The Science of Supermarket Lanes
  • Kelly Rowland Performs

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Live from Studio 1A: The World's Ugliest Dog

Posted: Sunday, June 24, 2007 9:05 AM by Robert Ciridon
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(This morning we welcomed the World's Ugliest Dog to our plaza. No, he's not offended.)

At 5:15 this morning I called the car company to make sure our guest and his owner had been picked up. They had, and I was excited. Elwood was on his way.

CONTINUED >>

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Dropping the Pounds with Don Shula

Posted: Saturday, June 23, 2007 5:00 PM by Robert Ciridon

(From Kerry Sanders, TODAY Correspondent)

**Sunday AM update: This story was shuffled out of our lineup at the last minute: we'll let you know when it gets re-shuffled back in.

It's been more than 15 years since I did a one-on-one interview with football coach Don Shula. The last time we chatted it was about sports. Today, it was weight loss. I'll get to that diet story in a moment, but first, a trip back so many years to that sports interview.

I worked for the NBC station in Miami, and never has there been a bigger mismatch of assignments. Let's just say I am not much of a sports fan. Off I went to the airport to do a local report on the Dolphins headed to "the big game." I don't remember the details, but I remember it was "a big game." (Question to sports fans: Why are all games "the Big Game?")

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for the Weekend

Posted: Friday, June 22, 2007 1:43 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's what we're planning for this weekend:

Search Continues
The family of Jessie Davis is desperate to find the missing pregnant mother. Hundreds of volunteers returned today for a second day to search in wooded areas, backyards and open fields. Tomorrow, Janet Shamlian will bring us a report on the latest in the search effort.

Summer of Love
Join Campbell and Lester on Saturday for a groovy tribute to the 40th anniversary of the summer of 1967. We'll revisit that amazing summer, check out some psychedelic fashions and listen to Lester jam with Jefferson Starship, live on the Plaza.

Single Anxious Females
In recent elections, it was soccer moms and NASCAR dads. What's the voter group to watch in '08? They're single... anxious... and female. We'll tell you all about them on Sunday.

Paris Set To Leave Jail
The days have flown by and soon Paris Hilton will be a free woman again. Sunday, we'll tell you about the plans for Paris's release.

Other Stories Planned for the Weekend:

  • Sat: Can You Be Addicted to Video Games?
  • Sat: Which Sibling Has the Highest IQ?
  • Sun: "Corporate Dominatrix": What Role Are You Playing At Work?
  • Sun: Diet Companies Target Men


We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Volunteers of America: The Summer of Love

Posted: Friday, June 22, 2007 1:00 PM by Robert Ciridon

(From Lisa Green, Weekend TODAY Senior Producer )

I'm Lisa Green, senior producer at Weekend TODAY. I'm blogging about our groovy Summer of Love plans for Saturday -- which include a visit back to San Francisco, a fashion show, and a live performance by the Jefferson Starship featuring our own Lester Holt on bass -- because I'm one of the few staffers here who was around for the summer of 1967.

Brief history lesson: during the Summer of Love, thousands of young people traveled to the Bay Area to seek a peaceful hippie existence. It was as ephemeral as it sounds, and by 1968, the scene had already changed. (Check out Joan Didion's classic "Slouching Toward Bethlehem" to learn how.) But that summer created a legacy of great, trippy music and psychedelic fashions. Personally, they're a source of strong childhood memories of what was, for me, a completely bewildering time.

CONTINUED >>

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Live From Studio 1A: What Makes a Good Mother?

Posted: Friday, June 22, 2007 8:15 AM by Dan Fleschner
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Are you an "Alpha Mom" or a "Slacker Mom"?

This morning, Meredith sat down with Rene Syler, the author of Good Enough Mother, and Isabel Kallman, the CEO of Alpha Mom TV, to discuss the pros and cons of parenting styles. WATCH VIDEO

Basically, an "Alpha Mom" is a high achiever who seeks perfection in raising her kids. She is a tech-savvy, hands-on multitasker, who brings an almost corporate mentality to parenting. In recent months, this group of women has gotten a lot of attention from both the media and marketers.

CONTINUED >>

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7 muggles win trip to London

Posted: Friday, June 22, 2007 7:30 AM by Jen Brown
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Scholastic has picked the winners of the sweepstakes the originally announced on TODAY.  The following seven lucky muggles will be traveling to London to attend J.K. Rowling and the Moonlight Signing event in London for the release of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" at 12:01 a.m. on July 21:

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Thursday, June 21, 2007 6:54 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Closing GITMO?
Is the White House close to closing Guantanamo Bay? Conflicting reports out this evening say the Bush administration is "nearing a decision" on the future of the detention center. Kelly O'Donnell will have the very latest on this story tomorrow.

VIP in a Traffic Jam
It's no longer the carpool lane... it's now the VIP lane. And it will come at a price. Michael Okwu will bring us a story tomorrow about more and more cities giving drivers privileged access in traffic jams.

What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • Troop Surge & the Rise in Casualties
  • Ready for Summer: Boating Safety Report
  • Chicago Performs LIVE on the Plaza


We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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A Bag Like No Other?

Posted: Thursday, June 21, 2007 1:52 PM by Jaclyn Levin

(From Amanda Avery, Today Senior Researcher)

On Tuesday I was given an assignment to look into the Anya Hindmarch bag craze that has swept London.  On Wednesday morning this bag was going to make its debut in the US..... so I am off to the Anya Hindmarch store in Soho to see the bag that has garnered headlines in the UK papers.

I arrive in Soho with my camera crew at 8:00 am, in the pouring rain, 3 hours before the store is scheduled to open.  Our new intern Mary Alice and I begin to think that this day will be a bust.  Who is going to show up in NYC on a windy rainy day just to buy a bag?  Our answer comes quickly as we turn the corner and see hundreds of soaking wet people, standing under umbrellas, in line to buy the "must have" bag of summer.  As I begin to speak to the people in line, I meet 2 girls that have traveled from Taiwan to NYC just to buy this bag... I speak with a man in line waiting to buy the bag for his girlfriend. I meet another young gentleman, dressed in a suit, who got into work this morning and was told to stand in line to buy a bag for his boss's wife.     

So what is the deal with this bag?  

First, the bag gives a great message.  Anya wanted to use her influence in a positive way to make it fashionable not to use plastic bags. The bag is a stylish, practical reusable alternative that she hopes will raise awareness of the issue of wasted packaging and spark debate. 

Second, this bag costs only $15!

So where do the profits go?  According to Anya, there are no profits from the sale of the bag.  She says the company breaks even.

To find out where you can purchase the bags, check out her website for details.

 

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Friday

Posted: Thursday, June 21, 2007 12:54 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

Search for Pregnant Mother
In Ohio, volunteers are staging a massive search for Jessie Davis the mother who went missing last week. Meanwhile, authorities have searched the home of Bobby Cutts Jr., the father of Jessie's two-year-old son and her unborn child. Authorities are holding a press conference at 5:00pm this afternoon. Tomorrow we will have the latest on the search.

If You're Not an Alpha Are You a Slacker?
We've heard about Alpha moms. They're the ones who do it all, and they're the ones companies look at for market research. But if you're not an Alpha Mom does that make you a Slacker Mom? We'll look at this tomorrow.

Graduate Financial Advice
The financial burden for graduates can be a giant rain cloud over such an exciting time. With tuition loans, entry level pay and possibly a move to a new city, it can all add up. Tomorrow Jean Chatzky will be here with financial advice for recent grads.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.

 

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Live from Studio 1A: Paul Potts Q and A, Britain's Talent!

Posted: Thursday, June 21, 2007 7:58 AM by Elizabeth Neumann
Filed Under:

This morning Paul Potts was on the show to celebrate his recent win on Britain's Got Talent (the British counterpart to America's Got Talent.)  WATCH VIDEO.  I caught up with him about life in the limelight, what's coming next and his wife Julie-Ann.

Q: What is your reaction to all of this attention?  Have you gotten a lot of fan mail?

Paul: Well, I haven't been home yet, so I don't actually know.

Q: Do you think your wife will be jealous of female attention?

Paul: I believe her words are, "You're welcome to him!"  Which is a joke, of course.  Well, I hope it is anyway.

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 6:54 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

College Loans
Are colleges getting a kickbacks from your bank? Tomorrow, our consumer correspondent Janice Lieberman will investigate college loan schemes.

What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • Today at the Pump- Chevron Chairman & CEO David O'Reilly
  • Marlow Thomas Compares Men vs. Women

We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Thursday

Posted: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 3:11 PM by Dana Haller
Filed Under:

Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

Can a Third-Party Win?
Our government is based on a multi-party system, but it's pretty much dominated by Republicans and Democrats. With New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg's announcement yesterday that he was leaving the Republican party, there is speculation he may now run for president as an Independent. But can a third party win the election? We'll ask Tim Russert tomorrow.

Paul's Got Talent
Opera singer Paul Potts impressed Great Britain so much with his incredible talent that he won the British version of the reality show "America's Got Talent." Paul will be here tomorrow to show us his stuff.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.

 

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Live From Studio 1A: Fran Drescher Q and A

Posted: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 10:30 AM by Dan Fleschner
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This morning, Fran Drescher was on the show to celebrate seven years of being cancer-free and to kick off the Cancer Schmancer Movement -- which seeks to raise cancer awareness, educate women and serve as a policy-driven women's health movement. WATCH VIDEO

I caught up with Fran after her appearance to talk about her famous high school classmate, her political ambitions and the enduring popularity of "The Nanny":

Q: You've talked about the possibility of running for office down the road, maybe running for Congress. What in particular about politics interests you?

CONTINUED >>

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TALK BACK TODAY: PRINCES WILLIAM AND HARRY

Posted: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 9:53 AM by Katharine Billman
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This week we’ve been treated to an unprecedented look at the British royal brothers – Princes William and Harry.  Check out our special coverage HERE.   After watching Matt’s interview that aired on Today and Dateline – many of you wrote us to share your own reflections on Princess Diana’s life, her tragic death and your opinion of William and Harry.  Here are some of your e-mails:

Mr.  Lauer,  
I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed your interview with William and Harry.  Diana was a beautiful woman and mother  and I still miss her to this day.  She would be very proud of them.  SHe did a fantastic job.   Her legacy still lives on.  They are as normal as normal can be.  I usually find most royals stiff and formal  they are not.  For their position they are calm and relaxed.  I taped in interview so I can rewatch it.  WELL DONE   I will be watching the concert honoring her memory.
--Nancy (Cleveland, OH)
CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Tuesday, June 19, 2007 9:22 PM by Dana Haller
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What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Bloomberg Leaves the GOP
He's jumping parties. Does that mean New York City's mayor is gearing up for a White House run? We'll ask Chris Matthews what he thinks when we talk to him in the morning.

Vatican Releases 10 Commandments for Drivers
Thou shall not use a car as an "expression of power and domination, and an occasion of sin." Yes, this is just one of the "Drivers' 10 Commandments" the Vatican released in a document Tuesday. Tomorrow we'll tell you the other nine covenants of driving according to the Vatican's Office for Migrants and Itinerant People. 

What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • Recalled Toys from China
  • Pamela Anderson Performs a Magic Trick on the Plaza

We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Wednesday

Posted: Tuesday, June 19, 2007 3:00 PM by Dana Haller
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Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

Too Far Left?
Is the Democratic field of candidates too liberal for American voters? We'll talk to Chris Matthews about this tomorrow.

Tragic Fire
Tomorrow we will have more for you on the story about the firefighters killed in Charleston, South Carolina and what caused the tragic event.

Baby Gap
Sometimes it's planned. Other times it's an oops. Tomorrow we'll take a look at mothers who have teen kids and a baby on the way.


Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.

 

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Live From Studio 1A: John Krasinski Q&A

Posted: Tuesday, June 19, 2007 8:34 AM by Zoe.Marcus
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In the midst of the Bon Jovi craziness this morning, I got the chance to talk to The Office/License to Wed star John Krasinski after his segment (WATCH VIDEO) and ask him a couple questions about his upcoming movies, as well as his love of co-star Robin Williams:

Q: I read in your pre-interview that you actually wrote Robin Williams a fan letter when you were 12 years old, what's your favorite Robin Williams movie? Mrs. Doubtfire?

CONTINUED >>

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Live From Studio 1A: Bon Jovi Mania

Posted: Tuesday, June 19, 2007 8:15 AM by Zoe.Marcus
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I know everyone out there in blogland does not live in New York. So for people out there who haven't been to New York in the summertime, let me tell you that there are some great things about being in the city at this time of year. You can see movies in Bryant Park, listen to the New York Philharmonic perform in Central Park, and attend a concert at the Today show, all for free! This morning was one of those days when people definitely took advantage of the free concert, as evidenced by the Bon Jovi crowd this morning. CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: The Evening Shuffle

Posted: Monday, June 18, 2007 8:34 PM by Dana Haller
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What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:

Big Concert on the Plaza
Bon Jovi. That's all we need to say. The Plaza will be jam packed. Don't miss this special summer concert!

When Is It Time To Leave the Pediatrician?
It's a turning point in the life of any adolescent. When should your child jump from the pediatrician to a general practitioner? Dr. Nancy Snyderman will tell us tomorrow.


What else is on tomorrow's show:

  • President Bush Meets with Israeli Prime Minister Olmert
  • Things You Need To Know About Barbeque

We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Tuesday

Posted: Monday, June 18, 2007 1:22 PM by Dana Haller
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Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:

More from the Princes
Tomorrow we will have more from Matt's interview with Prince William and Prince Harry. The Princes open up to Matt about their life in the spotlight and what it is like to date when you're part of the British monarchy.

Flooding Over Texas
North Texas is under water today after heavy storms dumped torrential rain overnight. Two deaths have been reported and rescuers are trying to find people stranded in their homes. Tomorrow, we will have the latest for you on this story.

Search for OH Pregnant Woman
We are continuing to follow the story about missing mother Jessie Marie Davis, who also happens to be nine-months pregnant. Police in Ohio are holding a press conference this afternoon. We'll have more on this story tomorrow.

Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.

 

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Live From Studio 1A: The New Batpod!

Posted: Monday, June 18, 2007 10:44 AM by Peter Giordano
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This morning, we offered viewers the first-ever look at the brand new "Batpod," as it's being called, from next summer's newest entry to the Batman franchise, titled "The Dark Knight." The film is still over a year away, but we are already seeing how Batman will be moving around in his new tale -- and Meredith got to try it on for size! WATCH VIDEO. This film promises to up the ante for action flicks, with four of its action sequences being shot in IMAX. Director Chris Nolan is remaining extremely tight-lipped about the top-secret filming, and this morning's view of the Batpod is the first info to be released about it. Below is some more info from a secure conversation (via Batphone) that one of our producers had with Nathan Crowley, who is the Production Designer for the film:

Q: What exactly is the "Batpod?"
CONTINUED >>

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Behind The Scenes With Princes William And Harry

Posted: Monday, June 18, 2007 7:58 AM by Peter Giordano
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(From Today Producer Matthew Glick)

People British PrincesMatt Lauer, fellow producer Joe Delmonico, and I traveled to London the third weekend of April for an NBC News exclusive interview with Princes William and Harry.  WATCH VIDEO. This was the first time the two have sat down with an American journalist.  It was an unprecedented opportunity.

With so many questions we wanted to ask and operating under a tight schedule with the Princes—there was a lot of preparation and planning that went into this one.  Matt, Joe, and I spent a great amount of time brainstorming areas of interest and questions to ask. 
 
We were given complete access.  There were no constraints or ground rules in place for this interview.  At the same time we wanted to be respectful in our tone and sensitive to the tragedy of these two young men having lost their mother at such a young age.  We were also quite aware of the amount of time Matt had to sit down with the Princes.  The trick to eliciting the best possible and most meaningful answer to any question is all in the phrasing and approach.  And Matt made it seem easy.
Below is the transcript of some of Matt’s thoughts on the royal interview that you will read here and no where else:

Q: What were your impressions of Clarence House?

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Looking at for Monday

Posted: Sunday, June 17, 2007 11:23 PM by Dana Haller
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Here's what we're planning:

Prince William and Prince Harry Exclusive
They are possibly two of the most famous people in the world. We will bring you Matt's interview with Prince William and Prince Harry. The Princes open up to Matt about their mother, their life in the spotlight and their plans for the future. They also talk to Matt about a special concert in July to honor their mother on what would have been her 46th birthday. Don't miss this TODAY exclusive on tomorrow's show.

Duke Lacrosse Player Reaction
No doubt the last year has been a difficult one for Reade Seligman, one of three Duke lacrosse players cleared of rape charges. Tomorrow we'll speak to Reade about Mike Nifong, the district attorney who has been disbarred after admitting, "he crossed the line."

Other Stories Planned for Tomorrow's Show:

  • The Latest: Gaza Violence
  • Tragedy in Tennessee: Drag Race Kills Four at TN Parade
  • Steve Carell will be here to talk about his movie Evan Almighty
  • Does Age Matter? We talk to Mark Consuelos, host of The Age of Love.

Shuffled Back In:

  • Our spot on Hillary Clinton's surge in the polls has been shuffled into tomorrow's line-up.
  • Last week we asked you if you thought cheap gas is bad for your car. That story was shuffled out and now it's back in for tomorrow.

We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Father's Day with Lester Holt

Posted: Sunday, June 17, 2007 7:12 AM by Robert Ciridon

(From Lester Holt, TODAY Anchor )

As far as I'm concerned, last Thursday was Father's Day. I played hooky from work, picked up my youngest son from his last day of school and hopped the subway to a Yankees game.

As we sat there watching the game it dawned on me that these moments will soon be fewer and farther between. In another year, like his big brother, he'll be off to college and my wife and I will officially be empty-nesters. When they were babies people used to warn us about "how fast they grow up." Back then, 18 years seemed like forever, but you know what? Those people were right. It not only goes fast. It goes too fast.

CONTINUED >>

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The Model Producers

Posted: Saturday, June 16, 2007 12:19 PM by Robert Ciridon

It all started about a month ago when one of my colleagues, Hana, came to my cubicle and said, "Stand up." Without really thinking I complied and she snapped a picture, then walked off saying, "Send me your measurements."

Despite the secrecy, I obeyed this particular command, figuring nothing too horrible can happen by giving someone your measurements - except, of course, if that someone is a mortician.

As it turns out, she wanted me to be a model in a TODAY's style segment she produced this morning on: Men's Summer Trends - Do's and Don'ts.

How this happened I don't know. I'm no George Clooney or Derek Zoolander. I have no professional modeling experience, though I will say I held my own as Mr. October in the 2002 Men of the University of Washington calendar (a disappointing month in the annals of timekeeping and wall decor).

CONTINUED >>

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Tomorrow on TODAY: What We're Planning for Weeking TODAY

Posted: Friday, June 15, 2007 6:50 PM by Dana Haller
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Here's what we're planning for this weekend:

Space Shuttle Atlantis
NASA reported today that the computer complication aboard space shuttle Atlantis has been fixed. Master control, however, isn't sure if the fixes are stable. Tomorrow we will tell you what this means for the shuttle's mission.

Obama Crush Video
Have you seen the latest campaign video to take YouTube by storm? It's a steamy, catchy clip from one Barack Obama supporter. John Yang will take a look at voter generated content on the web and the 2008 campaign election.

First Time Dads
It's not just the moms that freak out with the first baby... the dads do too! Lisa Daniels will bring us a report Saturday on what first time dads should do to prepare for baby's arrival.

Other Stories Planned for the Weekend:

  • Sat: Durham, NC DA Apologizes, Resigns
  • Sat: Grill Gadgets for Dad
  • Sun: Relationships 101- Are Men and Women the Same?
  • Sun: Military Fathers and Sons


We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, see you in the morning.

(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)

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Great day for one Enrique Iglesias fan

Posted: Friday, June 15, 2007 6:21 PM by Jen Brown
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Today was one of the greatest days of Delaney Foley's life when Enrique Iglesias pulled her up on stage to sing a song with him. WATCH VIDEO

 

 

 

 

 

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Enrique Iglesias takes five

Posted: Friday, June 15, 2007 1:08 PM by Jen Brown
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After his show on the Plaza (video), Enrique Iglesias told us why Tequila gets him going in the morning, why a double cheeseburger with fries is romantic and what album has made him become an Insomniac.  WATCH VIDEO