Before Nicholas Sparks became the best-selling author of more than 20 books on the New York Times best sellers list, he was a college track star. And after an injury, his mom encouraged him to “do something,” so he wrote a novel he now calls “terrible.” Years later he was pharmaceutical salesman with a family, and decided to write “The Notebook” in…

Suspect in deadly New Orleans attack likely acted alone, FBI says; Suspect in Las Vegas bombing had apparent self-inflicted gunshot, police said; Families remember victims of New Orleans terror attack; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

At least 15 dead, 30 injured after New Orleans truck ramming attack; New questions about physical security measures after New Orleans truck attack; Louisiana Attorney General says Airbnb fire near New Orleans attack linked to production of explosives; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

New tornadoes reported across the South after outbreak in Texas; U.S. intelligence suggests Russians may have shot down Azerbaijan Airlines plane; Fifth graders learn fine dining at restaurant after viral classroom lesson; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

State funeral for former President Carter set for Jan. 9; Behind Carter's pivotal role in the Camp David Accords; Black boxes recovered from plane that crashed in South Korea, killing 179; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

Former President Jimmy Carter dead at 100; President Biden and President-elect Trump react to death of Jimmy Carter; Tornados rip through the South, at least four people killed; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

Severe weather, tornado risk in the South threatens holiday travel; At least 15 injured after Brightline train crashes into fire truck in Florida; Video shows woman walking onto wing of Alaska Airlines plane; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

New tornadoes reported across the South after outbreak in Texas; U.S. intelligence suggests Russians may have shot down Azerbaijan Airlines plane; Fifth graders learn fine dining at restaurant after viral classroom lesson; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

Growing speculation that plane was brought down by Russian air defenses; Multiple tornadoes reported in Texas as millions face storm risk; Delta says stowaway was able to board plane without ticket or boarding pass; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News

Dozens dead after Russia-bound plane crashes; Winter storms threaten the West; Russia launches Christmas Day missile attack on Ukraine; and more on tonight’s broadcast.Von NBC News