Obama on Sony: ‘They Made a Mistake’

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‘We Have Not Caved’  After President Obama said today that Sony Pictures “made a mistake” by pulling its satirical comedy “The Interview,” the company’s CEO fought back. He reportedly said they did not cave to the hackers and had “no alternative but to not proceed.” As George Clooney joins those in Hollywood urging against self-censorship, the FBI continues to unravel how hackers gained access to so many files.     Learn More

Obama’s Take  In his final press conference of the year, President Obama defended his record on jobs and the decision to thaw relations with Cuba, saying that if something hasn’t worked for 50 years, “you should try something different.” This move was the latest in a series of pointedly aggressive decisions, and Obama made it clear he intends to redefine what it means to be a lame duck.     Learn More

Rough Flu Season Ahead?  The flu is here early and is hitting hard across the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Beyond hand washing and vaccines, there’s something new you can try this season to track the spread of the virus and possibly avoid coming down with those uncomfortable symptoms.     Learn More

Travel Alert for Americans  Less than a week after a deadly hostage standoff in Australia, the State Department has issued a worldwide travel alert for Americans. NBC’s Andrea Mitchell explains what this means as millions of Americans are expected to head out of town for the holidays.     Learn More

Baseball’s Game Changer?  There’s a rich history of “baseball diplomacy” between the U.S. and Cuba, but now fans have real hope more Cubans can join the major leagues. For players making $40 a month in Cuba, this move could bring millions. NBC’s Mark Potter reports from a game in Cuba, where one player dreams of a spot with the New York Yankees. “For me, they’re the best team in the world.”     Learn More

Gifts to Inspire Young Lives  Classes were a little easier this fall for millions of kids across the country thanks to the kindness of strangers. The organization Kids in Need received $100 million in donated school supplies and invited teachers to stock up, so children are prepared to get to work. And, along with the pencils, backpacks and markers come hope, excitement and a sense of dignity.     Learn More