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The Daily Nightly began on May 31, 2005. As Brian wrote in his first post it aims to provide a narrative of the broadcast day and a window into the editorial process at NBC Nightly News. Brian weighs in every weekday and NBC News correspondents and producers post regularly.

Brian Williams became the seventh anchor and managing editor in the history of NBC Nightly News on December 2, 2004. Read his full biography.



Random notes

Posted: Monday, June 02, 2008 4:07 PM by Barbara Raab
Filed Under:

By Brian Williams, Anchor and managing editor

A few items over the transom on a Monday back at work: interesting data and findings about the news media today, and we'll see if any of them are employed by any of us.

Todd Purdum's article in Vanity Fair (Todd and I overlapped while covering the Clinton White House) is an interesting read, as is the Clinton response to it today.

What a sad weekend for us at NBC Universal -- and all those who love the history of film. The fire at Universal Studios took away a part of movie-making history that can never be replaced. I am selfishly glad I saw the back lot during a studio tour recently. What a heroic effort by Los Angeles firefighters -- and by the operator of a bulldozer, who was in the pit working to pile up the pieces of a still-hot fire -- while water was blasting past him in several streams. It was an incredible scene to watch play out yesterday, as I did on the website of LA-area television stations. I'm confident we will rebuild. At least we have our memories, and in most cases copies of the films most affected.

President Bush today awarded the Medal of Honor to an Army Specialist who gave his life to save four others. Please read his story if you can. This makes the fourth posthumous awarding of the Medal in the Iraq War.

We hope you can join us for tonight's broadcast. An early warning to our friends out West: while this puts us at cross-purposes with our friends in the Sports Division, we're not happy to say that our Western time zones won't all get to see Nightly News tonight, due to hockey coverage. However, we'll try to post our webcast version on our website early to make up for it. We'll be back at full strength tomorrow evening.

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Hi Keith, I was watching Fox News this afternoon and I noticed that A woman by the Name of Christian (A Clinton Supporter) very angry about the outcome of this past weekend.  Made the comment that obama was an inadequate Black Man!  I have no problem with someone saying that He is not qualified, but why must we make racist comments about a man that is very intelligent (absent His color) I am saddened that Fox would choose to air the racist rants of an angry, bitter, individual who probably won't change.
Fox News owes the African American Community as well as Senator Obama an apology! For Allowing the Racist Rants of one of their Guest! We will never get over racism if these types of terrible behavior is allowed on the air!!!!!!!!!!!
Good Evening Mr.Williams, First of all I read the story of PFC Ross A. McGinnis and he certainly was a true hero and dedicated soldier. Much too young to be lost. It was heartwarming to read how he always made the soldiers laugh even after he left a room he would leave them laughing. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He is truly deserving of the Medal of Honor for his bravery and dedication to serving our country. We honor all our soldiers. On another note the fire at the Universal Studios in Los Angeles was terrible. It is a shame the loss of those sets and the videos. I realize there are copies, but it is very sad to lose them in a fire. They will rebuild and probably even better. The firefighters did a brave and wonderful job putting out the flames and should always be commended for their efforts. Looking forward to the broadcast Mr.Williams. Peace to you and to all!

Lots of Love to Laurel,Jackie,Stephanie,Celine,Anna,Claudia and Matt!
Be Well Always!
XOXO
Hi All:

I agree I am always emailing and listening to the news unless of course the anchor/reporter is some hottie then they get all of my attention.  I'm not naming names here........but (Laughs)

The definition of "breaking news" has been so over used it is laughable.    

On an interesting front I found a blog about Richard today and have official finished "the book."  Wow!  A must read for every American.  

Here's the link..

http://naomi.typepad.com/1000_cranes_blog/2008/06/where-is-your-c.html

Monday night bests to all!
Regarding the Marion Norris comments above...

I didn't know that you were in charge of overseeing MSNBC's Keith Oberman as well as all Fox News content, Brian.

What's next, Chris Mathews????

Better hit the network for a hefty raise next contract!!
Dear Brian -  I just saw your feature on puppies behind bars.  These are great programs in the civilian prisions, but did you know the first pilot program in a military prison is under way.   Carolina Canines for Service (Wilmington, NC) has started pilot program with the Marine Corps BAse at Camp Lejeune with military prisoners training service dogs for our wounded warriors.  This is a unique opportunity using the basis of the civilian proram in a military prison; the first of its kind.  The dogs being trained at Carolina Canines for Veterans will be for indiviuals with mobility impairments and will only be placed with our veterans.  The program is fully funded by Carolina Canines for Service and our generous supporters; no military or government funding.  I'd love to see this program featured on Nightly News.
Thank you for the story on service dogs for veterans. It is important to know the huge difference an individual can make to help just one person. Our vets our best efforts to return in their return to civilian life. Please continue to showcase these small but important programs.
Hi Brian, we watch you every night for the nightly news, we love you. However, today, that striped tie was just too much. Distracting, not good. I would not recommend it anymore.
Hello Brian.  My favorite part of Nightly tonight: when you mentioned that Primary Season ends tomorrow night.  Let's party!  Okay, I'll be serious....

I have no idea whom I will vote for in November.  I will never vote for Hillary, particularity this cycle, but it would appear I don't need to worry about that choice.  So where does that leave me: Obama?  McCain?  Neither are appealing right now, specially Obama after his religious problems of late.  Thank goodness, however, that Primary Season is almost over!!!!  

My favorite story was the last one tonight, about the dogs being trained behind bars.  My favorite animal shelter, Animal Refuge League in Westbrook, has a prison program where inmates help work with dogs with behavioral challenges.  Both programs are terrific and the benefits are tremendous.  

Anna, thanks for sharing the blog link.  Very insightful and yes, I have to agree with Richard's statement that we're all courageous in something.  Most of us don't readily show it because we are courageous about things in our lives we don't want to share in public.  

Actually, the next book I want to get my hands on is Barbara Walter's autobiography, "Audition".  Anyone reading or planning to read that book?

Hello to Lisa, Jackie, Anna, Celine, Claudia, Matt, and any other regulars I may have missed!  

Oh, PS: I typed this while watching the NBC affiliates local interview with Barbara Walters.  Usually I type my comments while I'm watching Nightly.  What is that blog implying - that multitasking while watching or listening to the news is bad?  

I'll be reading the Medal of Honor link later once I have time to relax for the evening.
Good Evening Mr.Williams, First of all the report by Mr.Costello concerning the rise is riding mass transit was interesting, yet not surprising to learn. Many people are relying on trains, subways,and buses to get to work and other things because of the price of gas. The first woman in the piece in the Atlanta area is saving alot on gas. I could see the Marta sign in the background and that is the train and bus system for Atlanta. I have ridden the Marta train many times to get to downtown Atlanta and one does save time and gas. Plus it is more convenient and much easier to get to the airport too. I can understand why so many other cities have seen an increase in riders. If one has access to these forms of transportation than it is certainly a great option. On another note I hope Senator Kennedy is doing okay after his brain surgery for cancer. That is such a serious operation and it is going to be difficult for him in the coming months. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family.
The report by Mr.Alexander from the Universal Studios showed some massive damage from the fire and the loss of so many famous movie lots. It is very hard for those who worked on those lots for so many years. One will have fond memories of all the fine movies made on those lots. Finally, the report about the women inmates who are training dogs to help the handicapped and soldiers returning from war was really nice. They are giving back to society in a good way and people are benefitting from this training of the puppies. Thank you for the broadcast Mr.Williams. Peace to you and to all!

Lots of Love to Laurel,Jackie,Stephanie,Celine,Anna,Claudia and Matt!
Hi to all great ladies of this blog!
Be well always!  
I (for one) was overjoyed that Ted Kennedy's surgery apparently was successful but I also wonder if Brian would do a piece on who actually pays for his hospitalization and treatment.  Members of Congress have voted themselves the finest health coverage in the world (I believe) and I think it would be great if NBC did a feature piece on that coverage.
Mr. Williams,

I was saddened to hear about the fire yesterday. Luckily technology has allowed for many things to never get "lost" or erased in todays world. Equally as lucky is that sets can be rebuilt very quickly.  I have also noticed that the NHL has taken the place of nightly news, though I imagine Nightly News brings in more viewers during that time slot (No offense to hockey).  

As for the link in your post regarding the elusive young viewers, I personally believe that people, young and old, get draw into news when they see it relevance to the world around them. I think the medias lack of reach over young viewers is only notable because it takes longer to reach younger people than older, and I think it will likely be that way for many more years. It could also be the fact that young people easily tire of hearing about the same topic on a news channel for more than 2 days. I'm sure there are also many more reasons, but I think that technological advances have helped networks reel in more young people.

Hello to all the regulars.

Looking forward to tonights broadcast as always
Dear Brian,

The piece on working dogs made me cry.  It was interesting to know that they are being used for soldiers with PTSD.  The more we know, the more we can avoid reactions like that of the clerk in the store, who seemed bewildered by the use of a dog for psychological health or rehab.

I am really annoyed that Scott McClellan's book has been released at the same time as Richard Engel's.  Now, the media is bombarding us with the self-congratulatory spin of one complicit with this Administration's propaganda, instead of recognizing the sacrifice and talent of a truly heroic journalist.  Chris Matthews practically gave Scott McClellan a big, wet kiss tonight - as did Olbermann - but I bet they won't have Richard Engel on.  What crap.

Ladies - You know I love you!  XOXO  
Mr. Williams:

On your evening broadcast tonight (purported to cover the “news”) one could not help but notice that you chose not to lead with the story concerning the brain surgery of distinguished Sen. Ted Kennedy in his battle against cancer (a man who has had suffered more heartache and anguish than Job in having to bury his eldest brother – Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., killed in action in World War II; next eldest brother – John F. Kennedy, assassinated as President of the United States; next eldest brother – Robert F. Kennedy, assassinated while serving as Senator from New York after serving as the distinguished Attorney General of the United States) but a story concerning MASS TRANSIT.

Additionally, you did not even give a mention to the ending, after 18 months, of the hard-fought Democratic race for Presidential nomination.

These facts make it is perfectly clear that, in order to obtain your concept of what constitutes “fair and balanced”, you have now outsourced your programming to Faux News.

As Bush would infamously say, “Mission Accomplished!”

But rest assured that giants like Huntley and Brinkley are ashamed that you even deign to call yourself a journalist.

The only saving grace is that for those seeking what is truly “fair and balanced” – now provided by the Internet – you have become the poster-child for what is IRRELEVANT!

With Deep Regrets That You Still Occupy the Airwaves,
Hi Brian your right you weren't in my living room this evening I missed you.

Now to my friends on this blog I realize the DNC will elect the nominee. Unlike some went I call a person a friend and support them I don't turn away because others tell me to.  I've watched Hillary for over 15 years and even wrote her with my complaints as she wrote back. What I've read, heard and witnessed from Senator Obama doesn't give me confidence in him, I did go to Hollywood to hear him speak and it was more like a Rock Concert then information.  I'm to old to change and be a follower of the mass. Who ever Dean/Pelosi/Leahy/Kerry chose I will make my own decision if vote this year. There's always the Green Party or write in vote. I've lived to see the best and the worse of my country, but now I'd like to take a class in Selective Prosecution that Cheney/Rove set up, that wasn't in our legal classes. The hold mess with the Democrats is William Jefferson Clinton. These Senior Law Makers hate Bill so their plan was to push Hillary out. Obama can't win the Presidency without the voters that Hillary has. As my daughter said the oldies need to build a bridge and get over their attitude about Bill.

Now this is for Brian. You thought Scott McClellan's book was a shocker you haven't seen anything yet when the Media has to report how Cheney/Halliburton scammed the US taxpayers out of yes over a Trillion dollars. The grapevine says that Rep. Waxman has the proven documents. This story will show just how were got into a recession and why CIA Director George Tenet left the his job a very wealthy man and why Porter Goss was really appointed as CIA Director knowing nothing about the job. Think Gonzales for your answer. More former employees are speaking up about the crimes they witnessed in the Bush Administration.  At least this information makes it clear why we have a 10 Trillion dollar National Debt and why the gas prices are so high. Let's just say Dick Cheney is still the CEO and has been since 2000. The Bush Family did very well with the scam too.

I saw the ceremony for officer Ross McGinnis and my thoughts were why. He and so many others didn't have to die based on the White House's lies as we know now. To honor a soldier who didn't have to die and the man presenting the award is the same one who caused his death.  I just don't understand how Bush could stand anywhere near any Military soldier or their family members. Our soldiers are still dying and Vice President Cheney says So. Bush gives fake tears to the Military families and then makes jokes with his friends about the Iraq mess. I wondered why the Generals weren't supporting the troops but they had a big pay day for their support of the corrupt Administration too.

Brian just stay out of this mess keep telling us about your day and activities.  The rest will take care of itself and we have many more shocking news about what has been going on behind closed door of the White House.

Best to my friends Lisa, Laural, Stephanie, Claudia, Anne and Matt

Mr. Williams,
My sympathy and gratitude to the McGinnis family on the loss of their outstanding son Spc. Ross McGinnis. Happy to see that the administration and nation have awarded this young man the Medal of Honor. As a mother of a deployed airman, it is very important to us that coverage of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan continue. Thanks to NBC for the human interest stories that accompany some of the reports-to keep a personal face on this issue is critical. To all the airmen, marines,sailors, soldiers,guardsmen, and reservists~We remember all of you. We will never forget you.Thank you for your service to our nation.
I echo Stephanie's sentiments about the fact that the Democratic primaries are finally coming to a close. It seems everyone is weary of the process right now and looking to the future debates between the candidates of both parties about the pressing issues facing our nation.  
Hi Brian -

Last primaries of the season - and the results are still muddied by the participants.  I know my politics and process and have been astounded by the mis-statements of facts during this campaign.  Talk about creative book keeping!

The Clinton campaign has troubled me and I hope some day they both will realize what they did to our country while in pursuit of personal goals.

See you at noon?

Joan
Brian: Is NBC Nightly News the FIRST:  to use a newspaper's previously produced "digital story" (on the prisoner training of guide dogs for the handicapped)...while the piece was well done, I could not help but think, is the first time a major network has taken the New York Times' digital video news story and used it in a national broadcast?
Stephanie,  I used to love Barbara and really wanted to become a TV journalist when I grew up.  

In my age who was on television?  We had Barbara, Leslie Stahl and Diane Sawyer for the female journalists.

The View and the Rosie debacle really killed
Barbara for me. In my mind she lost her karma.   Then the book and the affair.  Really why would she have to write about personal affair.

I think you said it best.  "Most of us don't readily show it because we are courageous about things in our lives we don't want to share in public."  Amen.

One day I may read Barbara when her book at the Friends of the Library 99 cent sale.   I would think this would be a $20 read.
 
Tuesday bests to all!

Why doesn't NBC mention that AIPAC leaders were arrested by the FBI for espionage when reporting on presidential candidates giving speeches to them?  Too sensitive?
soooooo... the Vanity Fair author is the husband of DEEDEE MYERS. Wonder who THEY support and is the article the reason to get some stuff out of her system?  I saw Whoopi read the AP report on the View, then I saw the retraction.  I have been looking at the news sites.  Hopefully the speculation will be over by 11 or so.  I wonder whom Obama is using for spiritual advice now.  
I (for one) was overjoyed that Ted Kennedy's surgery apparently was successful but I also wonder if Brian would do a piece on who actually pays for his hospitalization and treatment.  Members of Congress have voted themselves the finest health coverage in the world (I believe) and I think it would be great if NBC did a feature piece on that coverage.
Joe Bosko, San Antonio, Texas (Sent Monday, June 02, 2008 8:04 PM)

-----------------------------------------------------

I would ask that the piece be coupled with info on the health care our brothers in arms receive. As many of you know, a good number of doctors complete their training in the military, and if their attempts in surgery prove innadequate, a Soldier is left with no legal recourse. We (Soldiers) are wrapped up in the worst possible HMO and the governing body (mostly non-veterans) continue to up their pay and benefits while keeping us below cost of living increases. And that is if you are still on active duty!  
I thought my vote counts,but I guess the Superdelegates decide if
they do or not.That is not the American way and it's not the way the people voted for in the popular vote.
As an avid Obama supporter; what has failed us, should in many ways, enable us to embrace a new direction and {for lack of a better term...} change.

A good example:  A young couple planned their wedding for over a year of their life; selected a date last year to be married this year: 2008.  The day before their wedding (at the rehearsal actually), the groom-to-be was informed that his once-established company was closing, due to rising interest rates (no longer enough of a profit margin for his former employer to remain in business).  The company's funding was no longer affordable. The company closed shop; everyone 'out'.

Anyone who clings to past administrations that created the job market we have today (in part due to poorly written NAFTA regulations and subsequent fallout in a weak/lopsided economic base where we buy more than we produce)?  Has obviously never had to look for a new job in bad economic times.

Retirement-aged people (and those employed by large companies; on, or destined for reliable, established pensions) were, IMHO, HRC's largest supporters. Those already retired (or close to retirement or on disability) have their future fairly secure.  Their primary 'assumed need' is to have improved health provisions. Of course they would support the candidate pushing a platform based on healthcare.

Many of the working class will have no pension and will have no retirement; are merely challenged with staying alive. Food, shelter, transportation...(the economy); all major concerns for those in the working class.  Healthcare (the primary platform of HRC) may be important.  If one doesn't have a job?  Life tends to be very very limiting; life first depends on food and shelter.

If jobless, the working class is not as concerned with mandatory healthcare as they are with gainful employment to stay alive.  We all know that if jobless, homeless and without food, who cares to stand in line to see a doctor for 6 months for a healthcare professional to say "You need help"?
Hi Brian,

We love your broadcast and watch it every night.  However, there is one very important event going on in China this week which was mentioned on Monday's Today Show, but not on either your Monday or Tuesday show.  The event was the Philadelphia Orchestra's 35th Anniversary Tour of the 1973 breakthrough concert with Eugene Ormandy at the Palace of Nationalities. This was the first American orchestra to visit China since the Cultural Revolution.  

The June 2, 2008 concert, at the same concert hall, was attended by many Chinese dignitaries.  The program was very similar to the 1973 one, but was much more warmly received.  Chinese pianist Lang Lang was featured playing the Cultural Revolutionary piece, "The Yellow River Concerto."  The program was recorded and will be nationally broadcast in both China and maybe the USA.  Its purpose is to raise money for the schools of the earthquake victims.

Please take note of this important event.
Hi Mr. Williams:  I always felt I could depend on NBC news for the latest updates on important issues.  I was dissapointed last night that NBC did not carry Obams's, Hillery's, and McCain's speeches as did ABC.  The also was no break in to declare Obama had acquired more than the needed delagates. Why?  Was a rerun of SUV too "sacred"?  Even so, I still prefer NBC news.
Hi Mr.Williams,
My name is Ruth Lemaster from Ceredo West Virginia.
My mother was sent a letter certified in the mail and it said she won large amount of money from a sweepstakes contest. She had to call a number on the letter and give her winning#. This went on for a week or so and then they sent her a check in the mail to split the cost for the government taxes and the insurance fees. Then she sent money in for the processing fees, and they never sent a check to her from the company called Pharmoney Trust Inc.
I contacted them and they keep hanging up on me and will not talk.
What should I do about this?


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