My VCR currently resides underneath my bed. I didn't want to throw it away after I switched over to a DVD player, for fear that I would never be able to watch those beloved (read: embarassing and awkward) home videos. But if these tapes are simply sitting, gathering dust along with the VCR, will the memories really be preserved? I don't really have a record collection to speak of, but for many people that have those recordings they treasure what's the best way to ensure the music doesn't stop? This morning, Today's Technology Expert Paul Hochman offered some tips on how to preserve all those vhs tapes, records, and cassette tapes that might be gathering dust in your attic (or under your bed, as the case may be). WATCH VIDEO
At 18 my grandfather was all hat and no cattle, a kid with little money and no property. He would have loved today's American Story with Bob Dotson. WATCH VIDEO.
We enlisted the help of parenting expert and iVillage contributor Dr. Michele Borba. Check out her strategies to deal with meddling mother-in-laws:
I couldn't help but chuckle a bit when reading your email. I could relate to your issue. What is it about overbearing mother-in-laws and their need to offer "advice"? Here are a few tips that I hope will help you.
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It seems strange now, but on September 11, 2001, I had barely heard of Harry Potter. Strange both because of how global my favorite skinny boy hero is now (I just noticed an Urdu translation for sale on Amazon); and because I love the transporting literature of fantasy enough to have re-read THE LORD OF THE RINGS at least ten times and even, in a fit of geeky teenage passion, to have taught myself to write in Elvish runes (a separate alphabet J. R. R. Tolkien invented for his trilogy).
I missed Harry Potter's first three years of published life, but after September 11, Harry came to mean a lot to me. Because I lived in downtown Manhattan, on September 11 I was one of the people who saw the first jet hit the North Tower, a few blocks away. Shortly afterwards, back in my apartment phoning in my account of the explosion to the TODAY show, I looked out my bedroom window and saw the second plane hurtling full power across New York harbor, flying low, tilted almost sideways, apparently coming right for me. When it passed over my building to pierce the South Tower, my reaction became a tiny piece of NBC News's coverage of the day.
Our 9/11 trifecta was complete when my family - my husband, our one- and two-year-old and their nanny - saw both towers fall from a nearby park and were engulfed in a storm cloud of dust and debris. Just when we thought the world was ending, we were rescued by the private gumption of a New York Waterway ferry, put ashore in New Jersey, and faced with the task of getting on with our lives.
Has Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling joined the House of Slytherin?
Who hasn’t, at least once, been entertained, or traumatized, by a ventriloquist dummy? When I was a small child, I was completely intrigued by them. I wanted one, and I wanted it badly.
In her first interview since the final chapter of the Harry Potter series went public, J.K. Rowling revealed the secrets she could never previously discuss to TODAY’s Meredith Vieira in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Rowling covered all topics including the rationale behind her plot choices; the character she saved and the ones she decided to kill later in the writing process; what Harry, Hermione and Ron are up to these days; her plans for the future; and the way Harry Potter has saved her own life.
Meredith’s interview with Rowling airs both this morning and Friday on TODAY and in a one-hour Dateline special this Sunday.
But to give you a little taste, allDAY talked to Meredith about the most poignant moments in the hours she spent with Rowling.
allDAY: So, after all you read about Jo going into this interview, what surprised you the most? CONTINUED >>
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Unstable Housing Market
We saw the Dows reaction to the volatile housing market, but what does it mean for you? Tomorrow real estate guru Barbara Corcoran will tell us what to do if you're in the market to buy, sell or stay put.
America the Beautiful
Tomorrow marks stop three on our America the Beautiful tour. Where will we be tomorrow? You'll have to tune in to see!
Brand vs. Generic- Fashion
It can cost a lot of money to keep up with the trends in fashion. But can you take a short cut and buy style at a discount? In the next installment in our Brand vs. Generic series we'll check out fashion.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Dr. Snyderman reports on a new study that says your friends can make you fat
- Jennifer Lopez tell us about her movie El Cantane
- Sharon Osbourne stops by
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Meredith's Interview with JK Rowling
She has captivated the hearts of readers all over the globe, and now JK Rowling has brought her Harry Potter chronicles to a close. Tomorrow we'll bring you Meredith's exclusive television interview with Harry Potter author, JK Rowling.
Sports in Crisis
What is the state of sports these days? With Michael Vick's dog fighting ring, a NBA ref involved in a gambling investigation, dozens of Tour de France cyclists protesting their sport's doping scandals and the controversy surrounding Barry Bonds as he approaches Hank Aaron's homerun record, is there anything pure about professional athletic competition these days? We'll take a look at this tomorrow.
Celeb Rehab
It was reported over night that Lindsay Lohan is back in rehab after being arrested for suspected drunk driving. The 21-year-old star is heading back to a rehab facility two weeks after she got out. Tomorrow we'll take a look at celebrity rehab facilities and how they compare to other drug treatment centers.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
Would you believe me if I told you that gossip can actually be good for you? According to a new study, there are some benefits to those salacious rumors that we are all tempted to spread from time to time. WATCH VIDEO. The study examined 140 college students, and followed their tendencies to pass along various stories and rumors. Some of the stories that they were told were positive, and others contained negative topics. Perhaps not surprisingly, people were less enthusiastic to pass along "good" gossip unless it was about a close friend. But when it came to drunken behavior, sexual promiscuity, and cheating, they were ready to talk, especially when the gossip involved a same sex rival.
So how can these habits be good for us? Psychology professor Frank McAndrew, who authored the study, believes that our brains are actually hard-wired to gossip. We get a sense of pleasure and fulfillment from doing it. Furthermore, it can actually help us reinforce some connections with others. One of the most common sources of gossip is celebrity scandal, as witnessed first-hand this morning as Lindsay Lohan returned to the headlines. Gossiping about the famous in unflattering lights can make us feel better about ourselves, and reinforce self-confidence.
So by no means is all gossip good, as McAndrew specifies. But when used selectively, it actually can have some benefits. So spread the word.
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Terrorists Probing Airports?
We are following reports today from the TSA that terrorists "may be" conducting "pre-attack security probes" at airports in the U.S. Tomorrow we'll tell you what confiscated food has prompted the warning and what the department of Homeland Security says about the alert level.
Political Shuffle
We told you this morning to expect a story on who is actually winning in the polls, but that story has changed. Instead, we'll tell you why Hillary Clinton called Barack Obama "irresponsible" and "naive." And why Obama fired back saying Clinton is the naive one for "voting to authorize the Iraq war."
Earning Bring Dow Down
We're following the up's and down's of Wall Street and today is a down day. The Dow fell 200 points after earnings ratings slumped and concerns grew over the mortgage market. Maria Bartiromo will report on this tomorrow.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Bobbie Thomas shows us the latest swimsuit fashions
- Catherine Zeta-Jones stops by to tell us about her new movie No Reservations
- Al's in Miami for TODAY Throws a Martha Stewart Wedding.
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Is Hillary Really Winning?
Recent polls show Hillary Clinton leading the democratic candidates in the race for '08. But are the polls accurate? Tim Russert will be on tomorrow to talk about who is the real front-runner.
Lindsay Lohan Arrested
Fresh out of rehab, Lindsay Lohan was arrested this morning for allegedly drunk driving in Santa Monica. She was taken in for suspicion of driving under the influence and possession of cocaine. Lohan was released after posting a $25,000 bail. We'll have more on Lohan's latest arrest tomorrow.
Brand vs. Generic
Tomorrow we are continuing our series on Brand vs. Generic. We'll take a look at your prescription drugs. We know the generic is generally cheaper, but what is the difference when it comes to the actual drug. We'll tell you tomorrow if there is a difference.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
What happens when Al Roker gets between dozens of brides-to-be and several racks of wedding dresses? We found out this morning -- and if you haven't seen it, check it out: WATCH VIDEO
Tune in the rest of this week as "TODAY Throws a Martha Stewart Wedding" continues from Miami Beach on Wednesday, Chicago on Thursday and New York City on Friday.
What's in a name? Babies are born everyday, forcing parents to ask that very question. Many people believe that a name can make all the difference when it comes to success and happiness in work, life, and love. You may have heard us teasing a story on baby name consultants this morning. Many parents-to-be are now spending the time and money to hire people to choose baby names for them! CONTINUED >>
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
United Kingdom Under Water
The U.K. continued to get pounded by rain today with the worst floods to hit the country in 60 years. Emergency crews worked all day Monday to rescue those stranded by the waters. We'll have more on the floods tomorrow.
End of the Month Flight Cancellations
Is there one time of the month that's better to fly than another? Could pilot flight time capacity mean your flight is canceled at the end of the month? We'll tell you tomorrow why some airlines have to cancel flights in the latter part of the month.
Brand vs. Generic
Who makes the best potato chips? The national brand or a grocery store's bag? Tomorrow on our brand vs. generic series we'll take a look at food.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- The father of Madeleine McCann has a meeting with Attorney General Alberto Gonzales in D.C. today
- Drew Carey named new host of "The Price is Right"
- Al's in Las Vegas for TODAY Throws a Wedding
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Hillary Pulling Ahead
The most recent poll for the '08 election shows Hillary Clinton with a strong lead over Barack Obama among voters looking for more "strength and experience." Tomorrow Andrea Mitchell will have a report on Clinton's position in the polls against her Democratic opponents.
Soda Bad for the Heart
It's not just high sugar content and calories you need to be concerned about when you drink that soda. Dr. Nancy Snyderman will tell us about information that shows a link between pop and an increased risk of heart disease.
YouTube Founders
They've changed the way people use the internet. Their webpage is host to millions of users everyday. Who are the guys behind YouTube? Tomorrow we have an exclusive interview with Steve Chen and Chad Hurley, the founders of the site.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
(From Jen Brown, TODAYShow.com)
I was so engrossed in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” that I didn’t notice the young woman who had approached me until she pointed to my book and asked if it was the new Harry Potter.
I nodded.
“Ahh, I see you have come to the temple to read it,” she said.
J.K. Rowling actually wrote a big part of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” on the second floor of this building located in Edinburgh, Scotland, right in the heart of Edinburgh University. Back then it was Nicholson’s Café; it has since been converted into a Chinese restaurant (below).
The ground floor is now occupied by the Black Medicine Coffee Co., frequented by students and tourists. While it is not the exact seat while Rowling sat writing out her novel in long hand with her baby girl sleeping beside her, I certainly enjoyed looking up from the “Deathly Hallows” and knowing Rowling must have been looking at a similar scene where she laid the foundations for this series’ finale over 12 years ago.
For more Harry Potter news, check out our special Harry Potter section. Tune in to TODAY on Thursday, 7/26, and Friday 7/27, and to the special one-hour Dateline on Sunday, 7/29 for the exclusive interview with J.K. Rowling.
NBA veteran Derek Fisher appeared on TODAY this morning to talk about his 1-year-old daughter Tatum, who suffers from retinoblastoma, a rare form of cancer in her left eye. WATCH VIDEO
Fisher asked for -- and was granted -- a release from his $20.6 million contract with the Utah Jazz so that he and his wife could move to a city where they could get better care for Tatum. Last week, he signed a 3-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, the team with which he won three NBA titles in 2000, 2001 and 2002.
I caught up with Fisher after his interview with Matt to talk about the support he has gotten from teammates past and present, and to get his thoughts on the NBA referee-gambling scandal (for more on the gambling story, WATCH VIDEO).
Here are excerpts from that conversation:
Q: We could see from the crowd's reaction to you in the playoffs how the fans responded to you and Tatum's story. But you've played in the league since 1996... you have teammates, past and present, all over the league. Have any of them showed particular support?
CONTINUED >>
This morning, Matt tackled one of the most enigmatic and polarizing figures in American public life -- Vice President Dick Cheney -- with Stephen Hayes, a senior writer for The Weekly Standard. WATCH VIDEO
Hayes is the author of Cheney: The Untold Story of America's Most Powerful and Controversial Vice President, which hits bookstores on Tuesday.
In preparation for the interview, I spoke with Hayes at some length last Friday. Here are excerpts from that conversation:
Q: What are the top 2-3 things that people will get from this book that they didn't previously know about Dick Cheney?
CONTINUED >>
(From Bob Dotson, NBC News National Correspondent)
Viewers ask me, “What’s your favorite American Story?” I always say, “The next one.” It’s too tough to choose from the past. I’ve done about a thousand of these stories. But while working on this morning’s piece, WATCH VIDEO I found a note, yellowed with age, stuck in the back of my drawer. It said “Thu Nga Tran gave birth to a baby girl last night.” Not so unusual really, but when she was a child, her mother sent her searching for freedom in a tiny wooden boat just sixteen-feet long and seven feet wide. It held 324 people. CONTINUED >>
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Cheney Biography
Some say he is the man behind the scenes pulling the strings in the Bush administration. Tomorrow we'll look at a biography on the life of Vice President Dick Cheney and we'll talk to Stephen Hayes about it.
UK Floods
The United Kingdom is getting soaked with as much as 8 inches of rain falling in parts of the country. There was torrential rain in London and flooding along parts of the M50 motorway. Air travel was halted in airports across England and Wales. We'll tell you more about these storms tomorrow.
Man Attacked by Shark in Hawaii
It was just a day of snorkeling on a family vacation... that was until a shark took a bite out of Harvey Miller's leg. The Ohio man was in waters off the Lanikai beach in Oahu when a reef shark attacked. We'll have all the details on this story tomorrow.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Are record oil refinery failures pushing up the price of gas?
- Remembering Tammy Faye Messner
- What's in a name? Brand name vs. generic
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)
Last night, I was lucky enough to attend the midnight book release party for "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" in Edinburgh, Scotland, the place where J.K. Rowling "birthed" the famous wizard and his magical word. My official report is here, but I thought I'd share a few more random stories from the event:
Nina Jones, Elizabeth Thacker and Alice Langley got up at 4 a.m. in order to be first in line at the West End Waterstone's book store, but that's not the craziest thing they've done for Harry Potter. For Nina's 17th birthday, Elizabeth and Alice recorded the first sixth books on tape. The endeavor took two full months.
CONTINUED >>
Here's what we're planning for this weekend:
President Hands Over Power to Vice President
But it's just temporarily while the President is under anesthesia. President Bush is scheduled to receive a colonoscopy tomorrow. The procedure is routine. John Yang will have more on this tomorrow.
Lighters Allowed Back On
Get rid of your water, but your lighter that can go on the plane. Starting next month airplane passengers will be allowed to keep their cigarette lighters. Tomorrow we'll tell you why the TSA thinks it safe to have a flame on a plane but not a liquid.
Harry Potter Mania
When we broadcast to you tomorrow morning, the long wait will be over. Harry Potter fans will finally have the book they've been waiting for. We're covering the worldwide buzz.
Applying for a Passport?
The typical amount of time it takes to receive a passport used to be six weeks, now it's 12. Sunday on the show, we'll tell you what is causing the backlog.
Do Water Filters Really Work?
Friday on TODAY we revealed results for the best drinking water in America. Watch Here But if you don't live in Salt Lake City can a water filter help your tap? We'll take a look on Sunday.
Other Stories Planned for the Weekend:
- Sat: Clinton and the Women's Vote- Split Support Among Generations
- Sat: Relationships 101- Using Envy to Your Advantage
- Sun: Old Infrastructure of Cities
- Sun: Man Tries to Hit Every Starbucks in New York City in One Day
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)
The subject of this morning's Today's Travel segment was 'places that are not on your must list but should be.' (WATCH VIDEO) Most of us tend to make a list (mental or otherwise) of destinations that we'd like to visit at some point in our lifetime. But here are Today Travel Editor Peter Greenberg's thoughts on why it might be time to rewrite that list:
CONTINUED >>
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Iraq Briefing
Members of Congress received a high-level briefing on Iraq today at the Pentagon. Pete Williams will have a report for us on this closed-door session.
Best Tap Water
Cities across the country pride themselves on their water filtering systems and everyone wants to know their drinking good water from the tap. So, what city has the best drinking water? We'll tell you tomorrow.
Exorbitant Tickets
Every city has a budget to maintain. But what does one do when finances start to dwindle. Give the citizens a ticket of course! Tomorrow we'll tell you where towns are issuing large speeding tickets to bulk up the city purse.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- How to avoid bad breath
- Oprah's beloved dog dies choking on ball
- Performance from the cast of Hairspray
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)
(From Carrie Dann, NBC Political Unit researcher)
If I'd known that six million people were going to see my front yard on the Today Show this morning, I might have mowed my lawn. WATCH VIDEO
In the wee hours Monday morning, lights flickered on in windows up and down my quiet street in Northwest DC as the neighborhood awoke to clattering outside. Two men, armed with baseball bats, were mercilessly hammering at the windows of the Hummer H2 parked on the street, mere yards away from my front door. The quickly growing string of porch lights sent the vandals sprinting away, leaving behind the car's shattered glass, collapsed tires, and a message scratched into the shiny new paint: "FOR THE ENVIRON."
On Tuesday, the wrecked car prompted clucking tongues from passersby, and a few local reporters prowled around with pen and pad in hand. But by Wednesday morning, the words "eco-terrorism" and "extremist" were being bandied about. And, one by one, the cameras descended on Brandywine Street.
CONTINUED >>
This morning, Matt Groening, creator of "The Simpsons," stopped by to talk about the upcoming Simpsons movie and to teach Al -- and the viewers at home -- how to draw Bart. WATCH VIDEO
Plus, the Simpsons team created a special surprise, bestowing upon Matt, Meredith, Al and Ann one of the greatest honors in American pop culture today -- our cast has been Simpsonized!
Check out the individual shots:
CONTINUED >>
This morning, Matt opened the show with correspondent Ron Allen about two blocks away from the site of the steam pipe explosion that shook up the East Side of midtown Manhattan on Wednesday evening. WATCH VIDEO
Matt interviewed three witnesses WATCH VIDEO, and I was surprised to hear that two of them did not immediately think of terrorism when the explosion occurred -- because that's what I, and everyone around me, thought when we streamed outside to see what had happened.
I was in my apartment, about four blocks from the site, when I heard a loud rumbling like thunder -- but the thunder didn't stop. I went to my window and looked out onto Lexington Avenue, where people were running away from something, but I couldn't see what.
CONTINUED >>
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Where Does Campaign Money Go?
We've seen the fundraising reports. We've heard about the cost of haircuts on the trail. Tomorrow we'll tell you where all the money goes on a political campaigns.
Whole Foods Executive Posting Probed
The SEC is investigating internet postings linked to the chairman and CEO of Whole Food Markets. John Mackey has admitted to writing anonymous posts on a financial chat board promoting his company and criticizing his competitors. We'll have this story for you tomorrow.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Northeast Weather Snags Travel
- Fashion Show: White is the New Black
- Christopher Walken from Hairspray
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Companies Pull Kids Food Ads
In an attempt to avoid regulation by the government, 11 food companies have decided to stop advertising to kids. Tomorrow we'll tell you which companies have enacted this self-imposed ban.
Catholic Town Finished
The first town in America built on the basis of Catholic principals has been completed, but not without controversy. Tomorrow we will show you around Ave Maria, Florida and we'll talk to the town's founder, Tom Monaghan.
America The Beautiful
Last week we took you to Niagara Falls in our America the Beautiful series. Now tomorrow we'll take you to our second location. Don't miss our next stop on our tour around America.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
(From Eric Jackson, TODAY Associate Producer)
This morning, we did a segment on kids who are bullied because of their weight. I produced the tape portion of that segment, and to do so, I traveled to New York's Camp Shane. As we said in the spot, it's a camp with a special mission -- to help kids lose weight, all while having the same type of fun that you can find at any other camp. If you missed the segment, here it is -- WATCH VIDEO
Being a kid isn't always easy. You probably remember those awkward years. The ones where, when you look back at those old school pictures, you cringe. Yeah, those were the ones. Well, lucky for most of us, all our friends were going through that period together, so we really didn't seem or look different to the other kids around us. But how would you have felt if, on top of all the other things that there are to worry about at school, you looked different because you were overweight -- and people pointed that out to you? How would you have handled it?
CONTINUED >>
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Obese Kids & Bullying
It is difficult being a kid these days. And life can be made even more difficult if you are teased for being obese. Tomorrow we'll talk to Joy Bauer and Ruth Peters about obesity and bullying.
Mean Drivers
Some cities are known for the horrendous traffic. Others are known for terrible potholes. But which city takes the cake for the meanest drivers? We'll tell you tomorrow which one is the worst when it comes to road rage.
- What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Pro-Wrestler's Autopsy Results Released
- Amanda Bynes, Zach Efron, Nikki Blonsky & James Marsden from Hairspray
- Paula Abdul
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)
(From Curtis Vogel, TODAY producer)
As a producer on the Today Show, you get to meet a lot of people who leave a lasting impression on you long after your story is shot, edited and aired on the show. Such is the case with 11 girls I followed for six straight days at the Girls Rock Camp in Portland, Oregon. WATCH VIDEO
The Girls Rock Camp is a week-long music camp during which girls aged 8 to 18 learn a new instrument, form a band, write an original song, then perform that song in front of 900 people at the end of the week. In a camp that tries to break all the rules where girls are concerned, there are two main directives – no boys allowed and be as loud as you can be.
CONTINUED >>
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
All-Night Debate on Iraq
Today the Senate Democrats are preparing to go toe-to-toe with Republicans in an all-night debate on an Iraq War bill sponsored by Sen. Carl Levin. The bill calls for the withdrawal of troops to begin in the next 120 days. Tomorrow morning Chip Reid will have a full report on the events of the night.
Judge Bans the Word Rape
Tomorrow we'll tell you about one Nebraska judge that refused to allow the word "rape" into a trial. Now the case is going before the State Supreme Court. We'll have all the details tomorrow.
Getting Full Coverage
Health insurance can be a confusing and complicated issue for many Americans. The expectation is that it will pay for doctors visits, prescriptions and treatments as needed. For many though, this doesn't seem to be the case. Tomorrow we'll look at what you can do if you get denied by your insurance.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
(From David Gelles, TODAY Producer)
NBC Historian Michael Beschloss and I recently traveled to Roswell, New Mexico to report on the 60th anniversary of the Roswell incident. WATCH VIDEO
Roswell is perhaps the most famous UFO sighting in American history. The mystery of what happened here continues to draw thousands of hardcore alien believers who will tell you it’s all a “government cover-up.”
CONTINUED >>
(From Bob Dotson, NBC News National Correspondent)
I wish I could share with you all the story suggestions I get every day. Hundreds of 'em. The best come from viewers who drop them into my mailbox on our TODAY Show webpage. American Story with Bob Dotson mailbox.
Too often on television news programs we content ourselves with reporting a few top stories -- day after day. You tell me how you live. How you cope. What values you have. You also send solutions. Great ideas. Like today's American Story about a man who has found a way to save dying trees. WATCH VIDEO It's the kind of solution that could send all those Washington committees to lunch. CONTINUED >>
Researchers are studying a growing phenomenon within the family structure -- daughters relying on mothers to be their "virtual therapists."
Certainly, most people -- sons and daughters alike -- lean on their parents for emotional support and seek their advice during life's most challenging moments. But recently, researchers have found that women in their 20's and 30's are depending on their mothers -- and sharing their most intimate secrets -- more than ever, for a variety of reasons.
With the proliferation of cell phone and email usage, mothers and daughters are staying in touch more often and for longer, deepening their emotional bonds. Families tend to be smaller today than in past generations, increasing the focus on the children. And young adults are delaying decisions today about careers, marriage and having kids. WATCH VIDEO
CONTINUED >>
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Texting While Driving
Last month a community in New York was shaken by a vehicle accident that killed five girls who had just recently graduated from high school. The investigation into the crash has brought the revelation that the driver may have been text messaging when the accident happened. Tomorrow we'll look at the danger of text messaging and emailing while driving.
Fido Custody Battle
When it comes to divorce settlements most include custody of the kids, ownership of a home even alimony. But in some marriages the battle line is drawn over another member of the family... the four legged kind. We'll tell you tomorrow about one state that introduced a bill that will issue custody and visiting rights for pets.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Is Military Morale Crumbling?
- Michelle Pfeiffer stops by to tell us about her role in Hairspray.
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
What Will the Dow Do?
All eyes are on the markets today to see if the Dow will pass the 14,000 mark. Midday trading shows stocks are relatively flat. We'll have the latest news on the markets tomorrow.
Airport Security Etiquette
We've all seen the fumbling traveler holding up the security line at the airport. And there isn't anything worst than getting stuck behind one of those people when you're trying to catch a flight. Tomorrow we'll show you proper etiquette when going through airport security.
Mommy Dearest
Who do you go to when you have a dilemma in your life? You'd be surprise to know that for many sons and daughters, Mom seems to be the go to person for a little therapy. Dr. Gail Saltz and Dr. Drew Pinsky will tell us all about the ways mom can help us.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
Most people probably think that the place they call home is the "best place to live." Some might like living in New York City, the city that never sleeps-- with hundreds of restaurants, museums, and parks at their fingertips. Others may prefer the quiet of the country, with animals roaming about, and quaint shops and houses lining the roads. Well, rest assured that the debate over the "best place to live" will be be settled with this morning's segment revealing Money Magazine's Best Places to Live. Without further adieu, the winners are: CONTINUED >>
The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona Spain- a 400 year old tradition that generates both fear and excitement in partipants and bystanders. Brothers Sean and Michael Lenahan experienced both those emotions last week when they were gored by a 1,300 pound bull that strayed from the pack. Take a look at the amazing tale, that both brothers lived to tell. WATCH VIDEO
Do you think people who run with the bulls are crazy? Would you ever do that? Have you ever done something just as crazy?
Here's what we're planning:
Can Iraq Manage without US Troops?
Will it be like a deck of cards that tumbles when you pull out the bottom? With politicians in the U.S. Congress calling for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq, the question remains whether or not the Iraqi government can stand without U.S. troops in their country. Tomorrow we'll talk to Lee Hamilton from the Iraq Study Group. We'll also have Richard Engle's exclusive interview with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.
Was it Worth the Thrill?
This time of year, daredevils from around the world flock to Pamplona, Spain for the annual running of the bulls all for the thrill to run out a herd of bulls. For some the exhilaration can become immense pain. Tomorrow we have an exclusive interview with two American brothers who both got gored at the festival on Thursday.
Online Shopping: Real Bargains?
These days you can get your goods at department stores, online shops, even discount wholesalers on the web. But is there a benefit or even better a bargain when you buy online? We'll take a look at whether online shopping can get you a good deal tomorrow.
Other Stories Planned for Tomorrow's Show:
- L.A. Archdiocese Settles Sex Abuse Cases
- Harry Potter's Blockbuster Opening
- Internet Dangers: How to Keep Your Kid's Info Private
- Queen Latifah tell us about her role in Hairspray
(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)
Here's what we're planning for this weekend:
Bill Joins Hillary
Former President Bill Clinton joined his wife in New Hampshire. The former President said his wife was the "most prepared non-incumbent ever to run for president." Andrea Mitchell will report tomorrow on the Clintons' campaign to move back to the White House.
Religion and Politics
Is God just for Republicans? On Sunday's show John Yang will take a look at Religion and Politics. And we'll look with Tim Russert at the way Democrats are injecting religion into the 2008 campaign.
Do You Really Need a Broker?
When selling your home is it necessary to hire a broker? Is it worth the percentage of your profit? Saturday on the show, real estate maven Barbara Corcoran will tell us if a broker is what you need to get your house on the market and sold.
British Invasion on the Field
He's undoubtedly one of the biggest international athletes of all time. Now that he's brought his family to the States and the world soccer spotlight to L.A., he's expected to stir a new frenzy of U.S. fans. Saturday Jennifer London will bring us a story on David Beckhams American soccer field debut.
They're Not For Everyone
Khaki's... Madras... Jean. There are all sorts of styles when it comes to shorts. But they're not for everyone. Sunday we'll show you some alternatives to shorts that will work for all body types.
Other Stories Planned for the Weekend:
- Sat: Update on the Lisa Stebic case
- Sat: Would a Passenger Bill of Rights Help Air Travelers? Peter Greenberg will tell us
- Sun: Cities Promote Their Tap Water in Splashy Campaigns
- Sun: P. Allen Smith Tells Us How We Can Enjoy Our Gardens at Night
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)
(From Tammy Fine, Today Producer)
I have been working on a segment that I hope you saw this morning on the show, and it’s one that definitely hits close to home. WATCH VIDEO Do you work outside the home? Turns out according to the government, a whopping 70 percent of American women with children under 18 work outside the home. I was surprised the number was so high because it has appeared to me that more women were now choosing to stay home with their kids.
I am raising my kids in New York City, and there is definitely a debate here about what is best for children. Can you be a good mom and work full-time? I have to admit there are times that I am not sure. It’s not just the question, can women have it all? It’s the stress of dealing with keeping all the trains running on time. Have the kids been fed, read to, played with, bathed. Have your dooties [oops, I am potty training two little girls right now, I mean] duties... at work been completed to the level of excellence you required of yourself before children were part of your life?
I am fortunate that I work in an office that has flexibility beyond a working mom’s wildest dreams. We can work at home when needed, we can have flextime, we even have emergency back up daycare. Most working moms I know don’t have these amazing options, and I would guess many working moms don’t have a choice about working - they do it because financially the family needs it.
What I can’t understand is in this day and age, why women are each other’s harshest critics. Whatever the choice, working outside the home, staying at home with children, why can’t we be supportive of the choices? As Leslie Bennett’s says in her book, “The Feminine Mistake” many women after having a fulfilling career raising their children wish to re-join the workplace, and if there are no women in the workplace who paved the way to help ease that transition, or be advocates for part-time work options, or remind bosses, who are often men, the value of bringing these women into the workplace, then we all lose.
In the end, our children are in school together, playing on the ball field together, and isn’t seeing the amazing diversity of choice their own mothers have the best education for their own futures?
I think we can all agree that no one particularly likes waiting on line. But lately it seems like everywhere you go there is a line, whether it be at the the post office, the bank, or your neighborhood grocery store. According to the NCR (National Cash Register) Corporation, the top 5 places where people hate to wait are:
1. The DMV
2. Retail Outlets
3. Clinics/Hospitals
4. Airports
5. Fast Food Restaurants/Deli Counters
Many companies are addressing the excessive wait times with the installation of self-serve kiosks, as Today Consumer Correspondent Janice Lieberman demonstrated this morning. In the past few weeks, I've noticed more and more of these kiosks at drug stores and supermarkets. It certainly seems to be the way of the future, and possibly the end of the line for waiting in line. In the meantime, where do you hate to wait?
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Iraq and Terror
President Bush today held a press conference to talk about the interim report on Iraq and the possibility of a terror attack. The President said Al Qaeda is "still a threat" and that the terror group is using the Afghan-Pakistan border as a safe haven. Tomorrow we'll talk to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice about both topics tomorrow.
Dow Rally
The Dow closed today with the biggest close since 2002. Even with increased speculation about a terror attack, a large trade deficit and fears that interest rates will increase, the markets reached new highs. We'll tell you more about the rally.
Husband 'Person of Interest'
Lisa Stebic has been missing since May. Today police named her husband as a person of interest in the case. Tomorrow we'll tell you why police are now looking at Craig Stebic, 10 weeks after his wife disappeared.
Also on the show:
- Secure Your Home Before You Go on Vacation
- Are Hand Sanitizers Dangerous for Your Kids?
- KT Tunstall Performs on the Plaza
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
On Monday, the recently-crowned Miss New Jersey, Amy Polumbo, appeared on TODAY to discuss what she called a blackmail attempt. She described how over the past two weeks, pageant officials had received two packages containing photos of Polumbo taken from her Facebook page. A letter from the anonymous sender demanded that if Polumbo didn't give up her crown, the photos would be made public.
This morning, Polumbo returned to TODAY to show the photos. WATCH VIDEO She and her lawyer said they are confident that pageant officials will not force her to give up her crown -- a decision is expected later today.
Now that you've seen some of the photos, what do you think Miss Polumbo's fate should be?
CONTINUED >>
We had a shuffle in the rundown:
Iraq War Interim Report
We're adding a story to the rundown. Jim Miklaszewski will file a story on the Iraq interim report. The White House is expected tomorrow to release the first assessment of the War since the troop surge six months ago.
Miss New Jersey Blackmail Update
We will also now bring you an update on the Miss New Jersey blackmail story. She will join us tomorrow and show us the photos that sparked the investigation. The story about the Chicago reporter has been shuffled out.
We'll see you in the morning.
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Lady Bird Johnson Dies
News came today that Lady Bird Johnson passed away today at the age of 94. Tomorrow we will take a look at the life of the former First Lady. Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin will join us to talk about Mrs. Johnson's legacy.
Terror Gut Check
Without a specific terror threat to the country and without a change in the terror alert level, U.S. intelligence officials warn of a possible summer attack. We'll have an interview with Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and we'll ask him about the possibility of a summer attack.
Too Close to the Story
Tomorrow, we will bring you the story of a Chicago reporter who was recently fired after a rival station caught her on tape at the home of the husband of a local missing woman. Tomorrow we'll tell you how she is defending her actions.
Matt's Interview with Victoria Beckham
Posh Spice... Mrs. Becks... Call her what you will but she is half of one of the hottest couples in the world. Tomorrow we'll bring you Matt's interview with Victoria Beckham.
America the Beautiful
We've asked for your photos. We've panned the country and beginning tomorrow we'll show you the first location in our search for the most beautiful places in America.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Emma Watson stops by to tell us about the new Harry Potter movie
- Stacy London shows up Baby Boomer fashions
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)
We've been teasing our new series America the Beautiful all week with the amazing pictures sent in by viewers from all across the country. WATCH VIDEO Just to remind you, the Today show has been on a search to find the most beautiful place in the United States. The location does not need to be a famous tourist attraction, it could even be your own backyard!
Starting tomorrow (July 12th), the top 10 America the Beautiful locations will be revealed. What will the first location be? Any last minute suggestions for the other 9 locations?
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
McCain Camp Shake-Up
With his poll numbers down and the money flow slowing, Sen. John McCain had a shake-up on his campaign staff. Today McCain accepted the resignations of his campaign manager and strategist. Tomorrow we'll see what this means for the senator with more than a year to go until the election and we'll talk to Republican campaign consultant Ed Rollins.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- We talk to Chris Matthews about Politics
- How do you pick a contractor? Real estate guru Barbara Corcoran will tell us
- Are you an unhappy mom?
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
What's the Plan for Iraq?
Despite calls from his party and Democrats for U.S. forces to pull out of Iraq, President Bush said today at an event in Cleveland that he would not consider it until hearing Gen. David Petraeus's report. The assessment from Gen. Petraeus is not due until September. Tomorrow, Andrea Mitchell will have a report with the latest on the Iraq debate.
Tragic Crash Landing
This morning there was breaking news out of Sanford, Florida. Five people were killed after a Cessna plane crashed into a home after smoke filled the cockpit. Tomorrow we will bring you the latest on the story.
Medical News
Tomorrow, Dr. Nancy Snyderman will join us to take a look at the latest in medical news. She'll tell us about a new pill on the market that could cure addictions. She'll also tell us if an antioxidant found in tomatoes could prevent cancer.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
It's an age-old question: What do women want?
Well, a new study conducted by members of UCLA's psychology department indicates that muscular men are twice as likely to have more sexual partners, flings and affairs than their less brawny brothers.
But the study also found that women tend to choose less-muscled men for their long-term relationships.
This morning, Hoda Kotb went to New York's Central Park to find out what women really want. And Ann discussed the results of the study with anthropologist Dr. Helen Fisher and sex therapist and relationship expert Dr. Ian Kerner. WATCH VIDEO
The study was conducted between 2002 and 2006 and involved survey responses about muscularity and sexual partners from a total of 788 college students -- 509 women and 279 heterosexual men.
CONTINUED >>
Here's What We're Looking at for Tomorrow's Show:
Is an Iraq Pull Out Possible?
The New York Times reported that the Bush administration is debating whether to announce the President's possible intention to begin a gradual pull out from Iraq. Tomorrow Andrea Mitchell will take a look at what a U.S. troop withdrawal could do to Iraq. We'll also talk to White House press secretary Tony Snow.
Latin Mass Back for Catholics
It has been decades since Catholics across the world have practiced their faith in an old Latin mass. Pope Benedict made the decision to allow any priest asked to perform mass in Latin by members of the congregation to do so. Stephanie Gosk will have more this story tomorrow.
Do You Overpraise Your Child?
You don't want to raise a child that grows up to be too sensitive. Nor do you want a child with a hard exterior. So what can you say to your child that won't overload the positive reinforcement? Tomorrow Tiki Barber will bring us a report on overpraising your child.
Other Stories Planned for tomorrow:
- Are Summer Jobs Dying Off?
- Do Brawny Guys Get The Girls?
We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, we'll see you in the morning.
(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on TODAY? Text message TODAY to 46833)
It’s 3:00, and I’m sitting at my desk snacking on salty pretzels because I’ve yet to eat lunch or breakfast for that matter. I’ve never really had the best eating habits, but never has this issue meant more to me than now – I have an 8 year-old daughter who loves to snack, and not necessarily on healthy stuff, and my husband and I disagree about how best to deal with it. It’s not like we allow cheetos or fritos in the house like I had growing up, but I am partial to a good bag of blue tortilla chips, which are often in stock in my cupboard. However, I’ve seen kitchens packed with way worse than ours, and part of me wonders if we’ve created a sense of the “forbidden fruit” with regards to our kids and food, but my husband thinks if “junk food” isn’t in the house, then the kids can’t eat it.
CONTINUED >>
I caught up with model, spokesperson, and television personality Emme today, shortly after she and child psychologist Ruth Peters appeared on our show. WATCH VIDEO. Emme has a new children's book out called "What Are You Hungry For? Feed Your Tummy and Your Heart," which is intended to encourage dialogue about body image between parents and their kids. She feels very passionately about this topic:
Q: WHAT PRESSURES DID YOU FEEL GROWING UP ABOUT BODY IMAGE?
EMME: When I was growing up, I always felt that I should be the same weight as the other girls in the class, without even considering the fact that I was a foot taller than they were. There was no education, no knowledge, no outreach in schools about body diversity. So I kept looking around wishing that I could wear what other girls were wearing, but was never able to find it in my size. And I was very athletic, but just happened to be a bigger size. So I grew up always thinking "Why can't I."
I also grew up with parents who dieted a lot, and were a little obsessive about diets. So I learned from them NOT to eat for the joy of eating -- it was all about calculating every little bite. I think that what you grow up with really shapes your attitude towards food. We should be sure to eat nutritiously, but also enjoy the food, enjoy the company, and enjoy the environment that food can foster.
CONTINUED >>
(From Emily Goldberg, Today Assistant)
A few months ago, I blogged about my responsibilities as a Today assistant. Here's some additional info on my job (and this one is pretty cool) – the opportunity to assist the guest hosts for the 9-10:00 o'clock hour.
Last week the guest host for the 9 o'clock hour was Stacy London, co-host of TLC's What Not To Wear and Shut Up It's Stacy, which premiers on TLC in October. If you haven't heard of her yet, the best way to describe her is F-A-S-H-I-O-N. On her show What Not To Wear, Stacy is the absolute go-to-guru for style advice and wardrobe critiquing....I have to admit I tried on every possible outfit combination from my closet (and my roommates) before I first met her.
Energetic, smart and sassy, Stacy's enthusiasm on the show was contagious--and she was a lot of fun to be around. You can tell how many people admired her by the hoards of people who wanted a photograph, an autograph, or even some honest advice on how to improve their look.
Curious to find out how her first week went, I decided to do a Q and A with Stacy London. Below are her thoughts:
Q: The week is over, on a scale of 1 to 10, what do you rate it?
Stacy: I give it an 11!! CONTINUED >>
Here's What We're Looking at for Tomorrow's Show:
Hot... Hot... Hot
The country is sizzling with a heat wave from Arizona to Massachusetts. Out in the West, temperatures are well over 110 degrees and many parts of the country can expect today and tomorrow to be the hottest days we've seen this year. Tomorrow we'll tell you if relief is in sight.
GOP Moving Away from Bush on Iraq
The political arena is also heating up with more and more Republicans abandoning the Bush administration on the topic of the Iraq war. Tomorrow we'll talk to former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee about this and other politics of the day.
Miss NJ Blackmailed
Miss New Jersey Amy Polumbo has received two blackmail packages. The packages contained threatening letters and demanded that Polumbo step down from the crown, otherwise, the blackmailer would make some racy photos public. Tomorrow we'll talk to Miss New Jersey and find out who she thinks is behind the threats.
Other Stories Planned for tomorrow:
- Wildfires in West
- LA Mayor Scandal
- Moving Scams
We'll keep you posted if anything changes. Otherwise, we'll see you in the morning.
(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on TODAY? Text message TODAY to 46833)
Here's what we're planning for this weekend:
Wicked Weather
We are continuing to keep our eye on the weather. Texas has yet to have any relief from the rain while California is blazing in the heat. We'll have the latest on all this tomorrow.
Philadelphia Connection to UK Terror
The FBI has found that two suspects in last week's terror attacks in the United Kingdom had contacted an agency for certification to come to the United States. Tomorrow we'll talk to terrorism expert Roger Cressey about this new development in the case.
Live Earth
It's our world to protect and tomorrow the Live Earth concert will bring attention to global warming. On Saturday we'll look at "how green" Lester is and on Sunday we'll have a wrap-up of the Live Earth concert.
Other Stories Planned for the Weekend:
- Sat: Is 07/07/07 a Lucky Day to Get Married?
- Sat: You're Expecting... Now What? Campbell explores the road that she and every expecting mother have to look forward to!!
- Sun: The New 7 Wonders of the World
- Sun: Best Beef Cuts for Grilling
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)
(From Aarne Heikkila, Burbank Bureau Producer)
Peter Depew is living out his childhood fantasy. Growing up in Northridge, California, he spent by his estimation "thousands of dollars" playing Pac Man and Donkey Kong at the local arcade.
"I always thought to myself that when I grew up, I was going to have a small arcade in my own home. That was every kids dream," he says.
Now a 27-year-old former Army captain, Depew has amassed a collection of classic arcade games that would make any 10-year-old green with envy. Space Invaders, Centipede, Donkey Kong, they're all here in his makeshift game room in his three-bedroom home.
"My friends come over and we play for hours, it’s like we're kids again," he says.
CONTINUED >>
We had one of our biggest crowds ever this morning, thanks to the group Fall Out Boy. In the midst of all the concert craziness, Fall Out Boy bassist Pete Wentz took a couple minutes to chat with fellow-Chicagoan/Today Staffer Devin Johnson:
Q: So first off, was this the earliest gig you've ever had?
Wentz: Yes, definitely. I haven't gone to bed yet actually. We flew in from Mexico at midnight last night, and then went and watched "Transformers." By the time that was over it was 4, and I was like I probably shouldn't even try to go to bed now, it'd be a bad idea.
CONTINUED >>
(From Stephanie Becker, Today Producer)
I am the most cautious person I know. The queen of the scaredy cats. I’ve always worn my seat belt, a helmet when I bike ride and I never buy milk within a week of expiration. So, when I started talking to my friends about Peter Greenberg’s story on the hazards of driving overseas while on vacation WATCH VIDEO I realized for years, I’d been uncharacteristically stupid or uncommonly lucky. I’d survived a warp-speed death-defying taxi ride in Athens (with four Today producers packed in to the cab sans seat belts begging the driver to slow down to maybe a NASCAR speed.. a plea completely lost in translation)
CONTINUED >>
Tomorrow's date is not just Saturday July 7, but 07/07/07. Why do we care? For those that believe in numerology and lucky numbers, it doesn't get much luckier than the number 7. Meredith and Lester were going to chat about this lucky day, but unfortunately there was not enough time this morning. Here are some of the ways that people across the country are celebrating 07/07/07:
-According to TheKnot.com, 38,000 American are getting married.
-The Venetian Resort-Hotel Casino in Las Vegas is aiming to have 77 weddings booked Saturday.
-Papa John's is delivering 777 free pizzas to some lucky customers.
-A 7/07/07 online movement is trying to get millions of people across the world to stop at 7pm Greenwich Mean Time and repeat together: "Peace for You, Peace for Me, Peace for All."
-Casinos across the country are getting in on the fun, offering everything from $7 drink specials to a $7,777 package at the Tropicana in Atlantic City which includes a bi-level suite, tickets to a show and the spa, and shopping and dining credits.
Try your luck!
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Do Airlines Lie?
Weather? Mechanical? Air traffic control? We've all heard the excuses on air travel delays. But are the airlines lying to passengers about delays? Tom Costello will tell us tomorrow if customers are getting the truth about delays in the air.
...And Assuming You & Your Luggage Gets There...
Has your luggage seen better days? Were those days in 1982? Tomorrow we'll show you trends in travel luggage and we'll tell you about one anchor who refuses let go of her Mickey Mouse bag.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Are politicians responsible for their children's screw-up's?
- Fall Out Boy 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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Wild Weather
The weather picture across the U.S. is extreme. Rain continues to flood parts of Texas, while California, Arizona and Nevada are facing a wicked heat wave. Tomorrow, we'll have a full weather outlook for these parts of the country.
Heroes of Glasgow
Details continue to come out of the investigation into last week's terror plots in London and Scotland. Thankfully, what could have been a deadly attack at the Glasgow airport was thwarted by some very brave men. Michelle Kosinski will bring us the story of those heroes tomorrow.
Mall Curfews
In some malls across the country, kids have more than just mom and dad's curfew to worry about. Tomorrow Kevin Tibbles will tell us about new rules malls are imposing on underage shoppers.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
(From Courtney Kube, NBC News Pentagon Producer)
Casualty announcements. I see them every day. Soldiers, marines, sailors and airmen are killed and wounded day in and day out in Iraq and Afghanistan. The stories and names began to blur together a long time ago ... and then I met DJ Emery. WATCH VIDEO.
At 21 years old, this young marine has known more pain and hardship than most people could even imagine.
Corporal David Emery - DJ to his friends - was on his second tour in Iraq, and planning to leave the Marine Corps in June. His mother remembers saying goodbye to her son before he deployed last fall. "He had a bad feeling," she said. "He said, 'Mom, something doesn't feel right this time.'" Then, a few months after he deployed, DJ found out that his new wife Leslie was pregnant. He wrote to his mother and made her promise to take care of the baby if anything happened to him.
On February 7, just one month after his unit was extended in Iraq, DJ was standing near a checkpoint in Al Anbar Province when his battalion Sergeant Major, Joseph Ellis, saw a suspicious person approaching. Ellis put himself between his marines and the suicide bomber just as the man opened his jacket, spread his arms wide, and detonated his explosives.
CONTINUED >>
(From Bob Dotson, NBC News National Correspondent)
I like to think of myself as the guy who carries the light bulb. I look for drama and dimension in the lives of what most reporters dismiss as ordinary people. These are the folks who are reshaping the world, as we would like it to be. This morning’s American Story with Bob Dotson is about a millionaire who lives humbly so he can lend all his wealth, every month, to folks who need a helping hand. WATCH VIDEO.
Viewers always ask me how I find such interesting people. Of course, you tip me to some. I’ve got a mailbox over on Today’s PEOPLE page: American Story with Bob Dotson mailbox .
CONTINUED >>
Al Gore pulled a twofer this morning, making two appearances on our program. WATCH VIDEO and WATCH VIDEO. As just about everyone knows by now, since he left elected office, Mr. Gore has made environmental issues his crusade. Through the overwhelming success of his Oscar-winning documentary "An Inconvenient Truth" and his tireless awareness campaign, he has brought global warming to the forefront of American discourse. Yet, an incredible disconnect among the American people still exists. According to a poll in April, one-third of Americans call global warming the world's single largest enviornmental problem -- double the number from a year ago. And 78% of Americans believe that global warming requires immediate action. However, on the other hand, our country is still the largest single emitter of carbon dioxide in the world from the burning of fossil fuels. Is global warming one of your biggest concerns? What are you doing about it?
The Live Earth concerts this weekend (which NBC will be televising), taking place all over the world, are intended to raise more awareness and make people take steps to protect the environment. As the issue continues to gain traction with the American public, time will tell us if we start altering our lifestyle to affect change. Mr. Gore certainly hopes so, and he pledges that this campaign of his will roll on -- regardless of speculation about another type of campaign that he still claims is not going to happen.
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
New Terror Tape
A U.S. intelligence monitoring group obtained a new terror video from Ayman al-Zawahri. Al Qaeda's no. 2 called on Muslims around the world to unite in Jihad against the West. Lisa Myers will have more on the details of the tape tomorrow.
In The Market for a Car?
Are you looking to buy a car? This summer may be the time for you to get yourself some new wheels. CNBC's Phil Lebeau will tell us tomorrow about 0% financing being offered by dealerships across the country.
Could You Eat 66 Hot Dogs in 12 Minutes?
There's a new champion in the world of hot dog eating. Joey Chestnut dethroned six-time defending champ Takeru Kobayashi by eating 66 hot dogs in 12 minutes. Kobayashi only downed 63. Makes you wonder how in the world these guys eat so much food in so little time. Tomorrow we'll take a look at National Geographic's program on the Science of Speed Eating.
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)
(From Bob Dotson, NBC News National Correspondent)
Here's a number that'll make you sick. Forty six million Americans have no health insurance. Yet, waves of Baby Boomer doctors are set to retire. A quarter of million have already done so. Two million nurses too. Many still young enough to work. This morning's American Story with Bob Dotson offers a way to change that. A prescription of hope. WATCH VIDEO
CONTINUED >>
Let's face it- odds are that most of you in blogworld are not on your computers today. You're probably barbecuing and hanging out with your friends and family, awaiting the fun and fireworks that will commence this evening. If you are reading this blog entry today, you deserve a little reward, something to take with you to your barbecue tonight. While I can offer no recipes or grilling tips, I can provide some 4th of July trivia, courtesy of a thorough Google search:
-In July 1776, the estimated number of people living in the United States of America was 2.5 million. Today, the U.S. population is 302 million.
-Presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson (the only men who signed the Declaration of Independence and became president) both died on July 4, 1826.
-There are 30 places nationwide with the word "liberty" in their names.
-According to the U.S. Census, over 74 million people have taken part in a barbecue in the past year.
-According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, on the 4th of July, Americans will enjoy 150 million hot dogs.
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
Is Beer the New Wine?
Will you soon develop a taste for hops like you developed a taste for Chardonnay? Tomorrow we'll tell you why beer is the new wine and can go with just about any food.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Grilling on the 4th of July
- Kids and Etiquette
- Ferragamo Shoes: 80 Years in the Business
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
Celebrating Our Freedom
Tomorrow we're celebrating our freedom and America's birthday with a special show. We have correspondents with soldiers in Iraq, Afghanistan and at Walter Reed hospital. We'll also have a performance from the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Brass Band.
Latest in U.K. Terror Story
While we celebrate the 4th of July, we continue to cover the terror investigation in the U.K. Tomorrow, Lisa Myers will bring us the latest on the story tomorrow.
Pool Safety
Many families have plans to spend tomorrow by the pool. While the day can be fun and refreshing, it's also important to keep safety in mind. Consumer correspondent Janice Lieberman will tell us tomorrow what everyone should know before they dive in.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
Mark Mason and his "Team Sandastic" arrived at our plaza at midnight last night, and began sculpting an amazing sandcastle for our crowd. WATCH VIDEO. Mark has taken the art of sandcastle building to a whole new level, having just been crowned by the Guinness Book of World Records for the tallest sandcastle ever -- a whopping 43-foot creation in Myrtle Beach last month. Mark has been professionally building sandcastles for the past 16 years, with his occupation taking him to the Caribbean, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Europe, South America, and all throughout the US. I think it's pretty cool that he gets to make a living out of something that's so much fun for him. Check out some of the photos of his castle from this morning.
CONTINUED >>
What We're Following for Tomorrow's Show:
President Commutes Libby Sentence
In the political world tonight President Bush exerted executive power by commuting Scooter Libby's prison sentence. Tomorrow we will have all the details on the story, plus reaction from Joe Wilson.
Summer Skin Care
We're entering the dog days of summer and it's time to get your skin prepped for the heat and the sun. Tomorrow Janice Lieberman will tell us all about skin care products for the summer.
What else is on tomorrow's show:
- Summer BBQ Food- How To Keep It Healthy
- Performance from Paolo Nutini
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)
Here's a look at the plans for tomorrow:
U.K. Terror Alert
News continues to come out of London today as authorities arrested seven men in connection with the car bombs in London and the attack at the Glasgow airport. Here in the States, Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff says "we are safe." Tomorrow, we will have a report from Lisa Myers on the London investigation, and we'll have a report from Andrea Mitchell on security here at home.
Ready for the Fourth
Americans are gearing up to celebrate the nation's birthday on Wednesday. With families packing up the car and the heightened security at airports, travel could be a little dicey. We'll have a travel outlook for you tomorrow.
The Key to a Happy Marriage
Is it children? Money? Shared housekeeping? Sex? Tomorrow we'll tell you what a recent poll found and what married couples said was the key to a successful marriage.
Check back later to see which stories stick, which move and which get shelved for a later day.
After being assigned to do a segment on mothers who are envious of other mothers, I figured that moms would be lining up to talk about this subject. But finding someone to talk about her personal experiences was a lot harder than I thought it would be. According to a recent survey, 92% of moms said they feel it from time to time. What mom doesn't feel jealous of others for being more organized, or having better behaved kids? But when it came to getting someone to talk about this topic on camera, some shied away. They didn't want to show their insecurities to America.
I ended up speaking to a mother from New Jersey who was more than willing to talk to us. WATCH VIDEO. She had a great attitude about the whole topic, telling me she loves her kids and loves being a mom, but can't help but feel stressed out from time to time. She has two kids, and looks at moms of more kids thinking they are much better organized than she is. This woman's story echoes that of so many moms. Just this morning when the segment was airing, several moms in the studio were piping up and identifying with this mommy guilt. Natalie agreed, telling me that she is constantly envious of mothers managing multiple kids, when she's stressed out with her one son. I know that my mom would agree that motherhood is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, occupations in the world. What do you think? Do you envy other mothers who seem to have it easier than you do? What do you do to deal with it?
This morning, Meredith and Ann announced the 8th installment of our famous wedding series. WATCH VIDEO. This year, we're changing it up a little bit and the wedding expert of all wedding experts, Martha Stewart, is collaborating with us. Today throwing a Martha Stewart wedding... I can hear the brides lining up as we speak. And to make it a little more exciting, Al is hitting the road and traveling the country to find our next couple. So stay tuned in the weeks ahead. Send us your application. Maybe you can have Martha watch you say "I do."
Here's what we're planning:
Latest in London
We are closely watching the terror alert in the United Kingdom. Tomorrow, we will have full coverage of the attack in Glasgow and the thwarted car bombs in London. Lisa Myers will have all the information on the investigation.
Diana Concert
Under extreme security tonight Prince William and Prince Harry held a concert to honor their mother on what would have been her 46th birthday. We'll have a report on the concert that took place in London's Wembley Stadium today.
Flooding in the Plain States
Rain continues to fall in Kansas, Missouri, Texas and Oklahoma. Tomorrow we'll tell you what the forecast looks like for these areas and when we can expect the heavy rain to stop.
Other Stories Planned for Tomorrow's Show:
- President Bush meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin
- Preparing for your family vacation? Don't miss our survival guide for family trips tomorrow
(Want to know more about what we have coming up Tomorrow on Today? Text message TODAY to 46833)
