TODAY 8a: White House announces humanitarian pauses. Army veteran’s new mission. Tree’s journey to Rockefeller plaza. TODAY food: Cast iron meat lovers pizza and rib eye cap steaks recipes.

<p>The White House announces four-hour combat pauses in Gaza, providing a window for civilians to evacuate, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Also, NBC’s Tom Costello with an inspiring story behind a US army veteran who invented a technology to help people with disabilities. Plus, the history behind this years Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree as the spruce gets ready to arrive this Saturday. And, some delicious recipes for football Sunday.</p>