‘TODAY’ TIES ABC LEADER IN RATINGS

For the first time in nearly three years, NBC’s “Today” show has tied the perennial leader, ABC’s “Good Morning America,” in the hotly competitive morning news-and-information race, according to figures released Thursday by the A.C. Nielsen Co.

The measured week, Jan. 14-18, also marked Phyllis George’s start as co-anchor of the “CBS Morning News.”

“Today” had a 5.3 rating and a 22 share, tying “Good Morning America” for the first time since the week of Feb. 1, 1982. The “CBS Morning News,” which introduced George, a new set and more specialized segments on Jan. 14, had a 3.9 rating and a 16 share.