A Kindhearted Christmas (2021)

[bunniefuu]

[MAN ON TV] We've got

discounts store-wide.

Come on in today

till the end of December.

We'll have you ready,

and for the first 10,000

coming through,

they'll get a free

Secret Santa hat.

Come on down.

We're waiting for you now.

Good morning, everyone.

It is time to Wake Up Upstate.

- I'm Scott Morris.

- And I'm Amari Harris.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

Can you believe that Christmas

is right around the corner?

Honestly? I can't.

But our man on the street,

Cory Thomas, can,

because he's been out

in the county

and he's found a holiday story

that is sure to warm our hearts.

Well, good morning

from Porter's Cafe.

Now, just over six months ago,

a kitchen fire

shut the cafe down,

and Marco, the owner,

didn't have the funds

to make the needed repairs.

Well, that is until

an anonymous fan of the cafe

started a Save Porter's

fundraiser online.

Nobody knows who did it,

but the effort went viral,

the locals pitched in,

and before you know it,

the cafe had a new kitchen.

Now just over two weeks

until Christmas

and they are celebrating

their grand reopening today.

That just warms your heart.

What a beautiful story of

neighbors helping neighbors

during the holiday season.

I love that.

And I hear their famous

Christmas sugar cookies

are to die for.

You know what, Cory,

I'm gonna make you a deal.

I will de-ice your parking spot

for a week if you bring me back

a dozen of those cookies,

what do you say?

You've got a deal, Scott!

- Yes!

- Those must be some cookies.

I would have de-iced his spot

for a month, by the way.

I'm telling you.

Cory, a deal's a deal.

You bring back those cookies.

[FESTIVE MUSIC PLAYING]

[BUZZER]

- Good show.

- You too.

One more day and I am

out of here.

Where is it you're headed

this year?

- Bali?

- Bali?

That was three years ago.

I'm going to Belize.

Ten days.

Sun, surf, and scuba.

It's gonna be amazing.

You can never get out of here

fast enough.

What do you got against

Christmas, anyway?

Nothing.

I love Christmas.

Christmas is great if you've

got people to spend it with.

All my friends

are visiting family

and my relatives live

so far away,

I just decided a few years ago

that I'm way better off

traveling the world

at Christmastime, thank you,

instead of sitting at home,

watching the snow fall.

Ah, the life of a bachelor,

full of fun and freedom.

Yeah.

Something like that.

["WE WISH YOU A MERRY

CHRISTMAS" THEME]

Hey, guys!

Beautiful day.

Hi.

[DOOR CHIMES]

- Good morning!

- Good morning, boss.

Fresh cup of joe for ya.

What would I do without you,

Colleen?

[CLEARS THROAT]

Hard to believe it's already

the holidays again.

I know.

Any big plans this time around?

Uh, well Kylie and I

will trim the tree,

then make sugar cookies

and maybe a little

Christmas caroling,

then the winter carnival.

Just like every year.

Exactly. Why fix it

if it isn't broken?

If you say so.

But, I do remember a time

when you and Matt were always

coming up with fun new things

to do at Christmas.

Sorry. I didn't mean to...

No, it's fine.

To be honest with you, Christmas

was always Matt's thing.

Since he's been gone I've

tried to keep up the tradition,

but it's just not the same.

Every year I think,

this year will be easier.

It never is.

I'm sure Kylie taking off for

Europe next week isn't helping.

Yeah, I am gonna miss her, but

I am so happy for her and David.

I mean, what could be

more romantic

than a Christmas honeymoon

in Paris?

Newlyweds.

Well, you're handling her

leaving better than I could.

Yeah. I couldn't have made it

through the last five years

without Kylie.

She's more than a niece,

she's... she's like

a sister to me.

So, we'll just celebrate a

little early, before they go.

See, this Christmas is already

shaping up to be different.

You could try to meet someone?

Uh, no. I'm good.

The only man I'm going to be

spending time with this

Christmas is Mayor MacLean.

Sounds like the winter carnival

is gonna be different

this year, too.

That's what I'm afraid of.

I'm meeting with him later.

Hopefully he'll still be open

to a few ideas.

If anyone can convince him,

it's you.

["JOY TO THE WORLD"]

I understand if you don't have

the budget

for a Santa's village this year,

but can we at least put a tree

in front of town hall?

Christmas in Cooperville

just isn't the same without it.

It's tradition.

Well, you know the town

took a big hit

when the plant shut down.

Our budget is stretched so thin,

we can barely afford

a scaled-down version

of the winter carnival.

It's been a tough year

all around.

Yes, I know.

All the more reason

for some holiday cheer.

Okay, if you've got

any other ideas

that won't break the bank,

I'm all ears.

Actually, I do have one.

The other night I was on a walk,

on that path from Main Street

to the park's gazebo

and I was thinking,

wouldn't it be so beautiful

if we lined both sides,

and even over the top,

with holiday lights.

Welcome lights.

I love it.

Wait, that sounds too expensive.

Why don't we just save

that idea for next year?

Mr. Mayor. Randy, a walk

of lights would increase

foot traffic to all of our

Main Street businesses.

Would make our town more of a

destination for holiday shopping

and that would be great

for all the businesses.

I'm not saying no just yet.

Go on.

Well, I'm sure the town

has plenty of lights

packed away in storage.

Let's put them to use.

And I was thinking we could hire

Sean Cain,

I'm sure he could use the work.

Yeah.

Yeah. He and his wife had a

pretty rough go of it this year.

Okay, I'm sold.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

Now, if we could just put a big

beautiful tree, right out front.

Don't push your luck, Jamie.

There you are!

I can come back

if I'm interrupting.

It's okay.

I guess you're looking

for these?

Yeah.

And to congratulate you

on the great work

that you've been doing.

I mean, the message boards

are lighting up.

People love the upbeat

positive feel-good stuff

you've been doing.

- Great work.

- I'm glad.

Ah, yes.

[SMALL LAUGH]

What's going on?

Cory's family surprised him

and Vera with tickets

on a Caribbean cruise with the

whole family for the holidays.

That's amazing.

Why are you so bummed?

Because I can't go.

There's no one to cover for me.

No, there's gotta be some-

What about meteorologist Molly?

I asked, she can't.

Anyway, I've been doing these

feel good local stories

around Christmas for years.

Our viewers love them

and they're counting on me.

They're practically a holiday

tradition for our show.

I'll stay put.

Hopefully I can FaceTime

the grandkids from the islands.

Hey... what if I cover for you?

Very funny, Scott.

Nah, I'm being serious.

Really, I've been in the studio

for so long.

Look, it would be good for me

to get out there in the field

and do some reporting again.

But what about your trip?

Belize will always be there.

Cory, this could be a trip

that you guys never forget.

You really deserve this.

Are you serious?

Yeah.

Scott. Wow, thank you.

I can't wait to tell Vera.

- You got it.

- Yeah.

That was very sweet, Scott.

You sure you can handle it?

You're forgetting I started

in the field, Amari.

It'll be fun. It'll be fine.

I'll fill in for Cory,

co-host with you.

Works for me.

Looks like you'll be here

for Christmas after all.

Hm. Looks like it.



Remember this one?

Of course, I do, from our

road trip to Niagara Falls.

Yes. Kylie was in charge

of navigation.

Somehow, we ended up

on the Canadian side

without our passports.

- Really?

- Yeah.

It's a miracle

they let us back in.

You might want to keep that

in mind when you're in France.

Otherwise you might

end up in Switzerland.

Um, we've actually had

a change of plans.

David and I decided

that it's not really

the best time for us to go

on our honeymoon.

You cancelled your trip?

Just postponed it for a while.

Why? I don't understand.

We want to save as

much money as we can

for a down payment

on a home next year.

You don't have to postpone

your honeymoon.

You can always ask me for help.

But you've already done

so much for me.

Like, when I moved up here

for college,

you wouldn't even let me

pay rent.

And when Matt got sick, you were

my shoulder to cry on.

We support each other.

We're family.

Why do I get the feeling

you guys aren't telling

me something?

I got a job offer.

It's an amazing program,

helping young adults

with disabilities

get vocational training.

Kylie, that's fantastic.

Why wouldn't you tell me?

That sounds like your dream job.

It is, but it's in Seattle.

Oh.

Well, I knew when you moved

up to Cooperville

it wouldn't be forever.

I mean, that job though,

it sounds exactly like

what you've always wanted.

You have to take it.

I already did.

And David found a buyer

for his shop.

It all happened really fast,

but we're moving next month.

Wow.

I'm, I'm really happy

for you guys.

That's another reason why

we wanted to spend

the holidays here with you

in Cooperville.

Because who knows

what the future holds?

Maybe next year you'll

spend Christmas with us.

Or we'll take a trip somewhere.

Future, right.

And in the meantime,

I want this to be the best

Christmas we've had in years.

Let's make this year different.

Don't get me wrong, it's nice.

It's just felt a little

stale recently.

No offense.

No, stale is the right word

for it.

When it comes to Christmas,

your uncle really set

a high bar.

I mean, I try but he was the one

that always brought

the holiday spirit.

More like he was

possessed by it.

Well, I remember when he came

in the shop

with flyers promoting his idea

for a town gift exchange.

[LAUGHTER]

Yes. He wanted to spread

holiday cheer

in a meet your neighbor

kind of way, I don't know.

He didn't write anything down

and his plan got so mixed up,

nobody knew who

they were buying for.

No need for a spreadsheet,

Kylie,

I've got it all stored in

my super computer, right here.

Yeah. Ideas were his forte.

But execution, not so much.

But I did love the way he

always brought joy

to Cooperville.

Our town could use someone

like Uncle Matt right now.

That's for sure.



[AMARI] So, while Cory's

on vacation,

Scott here has nobly offered

to step in

and do a bit of field reporting.

Those are some

big shoes to fill.

That they are, but I promise

everybody I will do my best

to be a worthy replacement.

[AMARI] We'll see about that.

In the meantime, I understand

you've invited

some special musical guests

to the studio this morning?

Yeah, I have.

That's right, Amari.

I'd like everybody to meet

Bellevue High classic quartet

and their amazing teacher

Ms. Ramirez.

Welcome everybody.

Welcome to wake up.

Thank you, we are

so excited to be here.

We're excited to have ya.

And, as I understand,

you're not just here to play

some beautiful music,

you also are on a mission

because of a very, very special

invitation you got this week?

I'm very excited to tell you

that this quartet was recently

invited to Washington, DC,

to perform for the president

at the White House's

annual Christmas party.

That is so fantastic.

You must be so proud.

I am.

But, unfortunately, our school

doesn't have the funds

to send these kids to Washington

right now.

[SCOTT] Well, this is

an opportunity

that you can't let pass you by.

So, what are you gonna do?

[MS. RAMIREZ] We've decided

to raise enough money

to cover the travel

costs ourselves.

[SCOTT] That's a great idea.

Tell our viewers, right now,

how they can help support you

all to be able to do just that?

Well, tonight, my students

will be performing

a donations-based concert at

the Bellevue High auditorium.

We hope everyone in the area

can come and show their support.

Fantastic.

It's gonna be a great show.

It really is. Thank you

so much, Ms. Ramirez.

Kids, fantastic.

You heard it here everybody,

come on out and support

these talented, talented kids

and at the same time,

listen to some beautiful music.

[QUARTET PLAYING

JOY TO THE WORLD]

Hey, Kylie.

Quick question, do you and David

have plans tonight?

Perfect.



And then we can crisscross all

the way up to the gazebo there.

I could run the lights around

the edge of the roof there too

and support beams as well,

if you like.

Yes. That would be great.

If I get started right away,

I'll be done by tomorrow.

Okay. Perfect.

I'll let Randy know.

You selling your truck?

[SIGHS]

Ah, yeah.

I don't want to, but I'm

running out of options

unless some more nice people

like you hire me.

We had to tell the kids

this year

that Christmas might not be

what they're used to, you know?

How's Marcie?

Oh, you know Marcie.

She's trying to stay positive.

Hopefully she'll get a good

job soon.

Well, I'll keep my fingers

crossed for both of you.

Thanks. I can't wait to show

this to her and the kids.

You know, it's little things

like this that go a long way

to lift people's spirits up.

Forget their troubles.

You know what I mean?

Yeah, I do.

- Oh, hi!

- Hi.

You made it.

Not exactly Carnegie Hall.

Since when do you go out

of your way

to help some high school kids

you don't even know?

Since today.

I thought it would be nice

to show some support.

You did say Christmas was

getting a little stale, so?

Where'd you hear about it.

Wake Up Upstate.

Scott did a story on it.

Come on.

That explains it.

Scott Morris is Aunt Jamie's

TV crush.

No, he's not.

Here.

Why not? He's cute,

he's nice.

He might even be single.

I doubt it.

- Does he wear a ring?

- No.

So you've checked.

See what I mean?

TV crush.

I do not have a crush on...

Scott Morris.

Yeah. You guys, uh,

you guys watch the show?

I don't, but she does.

Every day.

Never misses it.

Well, we appreciate that.

Would any of you mind

being interviewed right now?

Sure. Aunt Jamie

would love to.

- No, she wouldn't.

- Yes, she would.

- Go.

- Okay.

We'll just kind of be up there.

Okay, hi, Jamie, I'm...

- Scott Morris.

- Yeah.

That's what they call me.

Oh, sorry.

No, that's okay.

You ready?

Okay, three, two...

Hey, everybody.

Coming to you from Bellevue High

where the audience

is starting to gather

for a great benefit concert.

I'm here with Jamie,

so tell everybody at home

what brought you out to support

the kids here, Jamie?

Uh, you did.

You invited me.

Well, us, we all got invited

by you.

That's true.

I di-Um, so do you live

in Hudson City?

Cooperville, actually.

It's off the 90 West.

About a 40-minute drive

from here.

Give or take, you know,

if there's no traffic.

Which there wasn't 'cause

there's no rush hour right now.

Well, that's good to know.

I'm sure everybody appreciates

you making the drive out.

The kids appreciate

your support.

Yes, it's for the kids.

That's right, mm-hm.

Absolutely, which is the spirit

of Christmas.

That's for sure.

Thank you so much, Jamie.

You're welcome.

Great. Thanks.

You did, you did really well.

[NERVOUS LAUGH]

That was terrible, I'm sorry.

No, that's not true.

You did, you did great.

It's hard, with the camera

and everything.

Thank you again,

for your support.

- Yeah.

- Alright.

Enjoy the show.

- Oh.

- Yeah.

Okay, who's next?

What just happened?

Well, you just got interviewed

by Scott Morris

who was nice and cute

and very charming.

While you were totally

nervous and awkward.

All caught on camera.

I am so embarrassed.

Don't be, I'm sure he interviews

so many nervous Nellies

he's used to it.

And hey, look on

the bright side,

you finally got to meet

Scott Morris.

And now I have a reason

to watch his show tomorrow.

Hm. Okay.

I need some air.

Hello, Bellevue!

- How's everybody doing?

- [APPLAUSE]

Great. Good to see

those smiling faces.

Look, if it's all right

with everybody,

before the concert starts

we would like to sh**t

a quick update

with Ms. Ramirez here

that will be on tomorrow's show.

All right?

Oh, look, there's

your TV crush again.

Oh, stop it.

- You ready to go?

- Yes.

All right, let's do this.

Here we go.

Rolling?

In three, two...

Hello everybody, I'm Scott

Morris coming to you

from Bellevue High

where the benefit concert

for these talented kids

right here,

this amazing quartet

is about to begin.

Ms. Ramirez, great

to see you again.

Nice to see you too, Scott.

How's the fundraising going?

Well, we've raised

about $300 so far.

So, we have a long way to go.

But we're so grateful

to everyone who came out

and dropped cash in our donation

box or texted in a donation.

Oh... okay.

Is something wrong?

Yes. I mean, no.

We just had an anonymous

donation for the full amount!

What?! That's amazing!

[CHEERING]

Oh boy, hugs too!

This is crazy.

- Congratulations, everybody.

- An absolute miracle.

Congratulations, guys.

[SING-SONGY] You're going

to the White House!

Lots of smiles...

Whoever you are, thank you.

You're our hero!

[SCREAMS OF DELIGHT]

Woo.

Well done, everybody.

[APPLAUSE]



So, do you live in Hudson City?

Cooperville actually.

It's off the 90 West.

About a 40-minute

drive from here.

Give or take, you know,

if there's no traffic.

Hello.

Well, if it isn't Cooperville's

latest celeb.

I was just watching

your screen debut.

I was hoping that would end up

on the cutting room floor.

Tell me Scott Morris is as nice

in person as he is on TV?

He is. Was... nice.

And very handsome.

I might just be imagining it,

but I got the sense

he kind of likes you.

- Okay.

- You two would make a cute couple.

You are being ridiculous.

Why not, Jamie?

Newsflash, you're a catch.

You're smart, kind, fun, pretty.

[PHONE RINGING]

Cooperville Tours?

No, I didn't. Really?

Okay. Thanks.

What, what's up?

There's something

we need to see.

Come on.

I thought our town couldn't

afford a tree this year.

Maybe the mayor

had a change of heart.

I'm glad you came to

your senses, Mr. Mayor.

It's not Christmas

in Cooperville

until there's a tree

outside town hall.

Oh, I can't take credit

for that.

It's an anonymous gift.

Kind of like what happened at

Bellevue High last night, right?

Maybe it's the same person.

No, doubtful.

It's probably just a couple

of random acts of kindness.

Whatever you call it,

I'm grateful.

Town Hall already looks

more festive.

Yep.

Looks great.

Thank you.

Wishing you were in Belize

right now?

What Belize?

- I haven't given it a second thought.

- Good.

I might have a scoop for you.

I got a call from the mayor

of Cooperville.

It seems somebody

anonymously gifted the town

with a Christmas tree.

Not exactly a hot scoop, Amari.

What if it's the same person

who gifted those kids

their trip to DC?

Or, an epidemic of

coincidental kindness.

Either way, it's worth

checking it out.

Okay, you got me.

I've been meaning to visit

Cooperville anyway.

- Really?

- Mm-hm.

Uh-huh. Sure.

With Christmas just

around the corner,

it seems that Hudson county has a

bona fide holiday mystery on our hands,

as another anonymous donation

has spread Christmas cheer

in one of our towns.

Good morning, Scott.

Good morning, everyone.

For the first time in years,

Cooperville was not able

to get a Christmas tree for the

season due to a budget crisis.

However, yesterday,

this beautiful tree

that you see right here

showed up, no note,

no explanation whatsoever.

I'm joined here with Cooperville

mayor, Randy MacLean.

Mr. Mayor, you must have been

as surprised as anybody

when this beautiful tree

showed up at your doorstep?

You can say that again.

It's absolutely amazing.

In fact, it didn't feel like

Christmas around here

until this happened,

so we're all very grateful

to the person that made

this possible.

I bet you are. Absolutely.

Very happy for everybody here

in Cooperville.

Uh, well there you have it,

everyone,

you heard it from

the mayor himself.

Come on out to Cooperville,

where the Christmas spirit

is in full display

each and every night.

Great.

Good job, Mr. Mayor.

- Thanks.

- Fantastic.

Can I ask you a question?

Do you happen to know

that young woman

that's standing right there

by the back of the van?

Do you know who that is?

Oh yeah, that's Jamie Monroe.

She runs Cooperville Tours.

Kind of a local expert

around here,

if you need a guide.

Hm. You know, I just might.

Oh!

- Were you just at the tree?

- Yeah.

Isn't it gorgeous?

Last night, Gary and I

came down,

got hot chocolates and just

looked at the tree for an hour.

Most romantic thing we've done

in years.

Is that Scott Morris?

- Welcome to Cooperville.

- Oh, thank you.

This is great.

Um...

I'm sorry to bother you,

it's, it's Jamie, right?

You were at the concert

the other night?

Yep, that's Jamie.

I have things to do.

In the back.

Leaving now.

So, what brings you here?

The Christmas tree, actually.

No, I meant here,

to Cooperville Tours.

Oh, um, yeah, I need a tour.

We need some shots of

Cooperville and I figured,

who better to show me around

than the local tour company.

Oh, okay.

Would that be for you or

you and your camera man?

Just me, for now.

Well, unfortunately our tour van

already left for the morning.

Well, that's okay.

I'm more of a walking tour

kind of guy anyway.

We don't have that

in the winter.

I'm so, so sorry.

But, we were just talking about

adding a Cooperville

Christmas tour.

- Right, Jamie?

- Oh.

Today would be the perfect

day to do a trial run,

don't you think?

I'll cover here.

You give the tour

and you take the tour.

- Off you go!

- Okay, great!

Have fun, explore.

Enjoy Cooperville!

We're glad you're here.

Okay, well, uh, it looks like I

will be giving you your tour.

Great.

Is there anything in particular

you wanted to see?

Not really, no.

I'll just... I'll just follow

your lead.

All right. Well, uh, this is

our downtown.

- Obviously.

- It's beautiful, it really is.

I love the mix of old

and new architecture.

Exactly.

Okay, well if you will

follow me, Mr. Morris,

I will begin your tour.

Great.

- You okay?

- I don't know.

- Which side do you?

- Doesn't matter to me.

What an amazing space.

I mean, you don't typically

see buildings like this

in small towns around here.

Performing arts has been

a great way to bring

the community together.

It's one of the reasons

Cooperville was voted

best upstate town in 2016.

Really? That's pretty cool.

It was a great honor,

but it's not that cool.

I don't know why

I just said that.

Because you're proud of

your town and I admire that.

Besides, I've always wondered

who won best upstate town 2016.

Now I know.

Shouldn't you be taking notes

or something

for your shot list or whatever?

- I got it stored all up here.

- Huh.

You don't believe me?

No. You just reminded me

of someone.

This is one of my personal

favorite spots.

I can see why, I really can.

How long have you lived here?

- My whole life.

- Really?

By choice or just circumstance?

Um, I guess a little of both.

When I was a kid, my parents

moved here for work

and then after I met Matthew,

he said I knew so much

about this town

we should start a tour company,

so we did.

- Matthew?

- My late husband.

- I'm sorry.

- Thanks.

After he passed, I could have

gone anywhere.

Started fresh, but Cooperville's

been good to me.

I have a job here that I love,

a wonderful home

and a niece that I love like

a sister so I decided to stay.

I mean, I get it.

I really do.

I traveled a lot as a kid and

then even more with my career.

So, I don't really have

a place that I call home.

You're lucky.

Well, maybe someday

you'll find it.

Maybe I will.

Come on.

Okay.

[BELLS RINGING]

Merry Christmas!

That was very generous of you.

Ah, it's the holidays.

It's the time to be generous,

right?

Yeah.

To be honest, I'm trying to get

into the holiday spirit.

Really?

I get the impression from TV

that you are Mr. Christmas.

You'd think so.

But I actually try

and get out of here

and escape to warmer

destinations.

I haven't stuck around for

Christmas in a very long time.

How is it going this year?

Full of surprises.

- I know what you mean.

- Hm.

Well, I guess that concludes

your impromptu personal tour.

You get everything you need?

Did you get ideas for the show?

Actually, I was having

too much fun,

I seem to have forgotten

some of the landmarks.

- Noggin let you down, huh?

- Hm.

Probably should have

taken notes.

I was hoping for another tour.

One that includes dinner?

Oh, we don't offer that.

That was, that was my attempt

at asking you out to dinner.

Oh.

I got to work on that, huh?

Yeah. Wow, okay.

Yeah?

- Mm-hm.

- Great.

Okay. I'll call ya.

You don't have my number.

Sure, I do.

Well, there it is, okay.

Okay.

Call me. [LAUGHS]



When I saw what that person did

for those high schoolers,

and then the tree at town hall,

I realized I should do something

to spread some cheer myself.

So, I bought these cards

and I gave them to the kids

at the shelter to fill out.

Now, anybody who shops here

can read a card from a kid

and buy them the present

they're asking for.

That is a great idea, Kylie.

Hopefully we'll be able to get

something for every child.

There's so many more families in

need at the shelter this year.

We can barely feed everybody

this Christmas.

I had no idea it was so bad.

How 'bout we go first?

I'd love to.

Let me get a shot of you two

in action.

And I'll take one

of those cards too.

What better way to start

the giving then now, right?

Oh, you two.

[LAUGHS]

[TV SHOW THEME]

[SCOTT] Good morning everyone.

It is time to Wake Up Upstate.

- I'm Scott Morris.

- And I'm Amari Harris.

- We missed you in studio yesterday, Scott.

- Oh.

How was your trip

to Cooperville?

It was great.

The townspeople there

are just so excited

about their new Christmas tree,

it was hard not to get into

the Christmas spirit myself.

In fact, I took a tour.

- Really?

- Yeah.

This beautiful old town,

so charming,

with so much history.

Of course, it probably helped

to have a great tour guide,

which I did.

I highly recommend Cooperville

Tours and Sightseeing

if you happen to be in the area.

You planning to go back?

Absolutely.

Especially if more of these

mysterious Christmas donations

keep popping up.

Oh, well let's hope they do

because our viewers are loving

these stories.

Here are a few of the posts

we've gotten just this morning

from our page.

"Keep up the great work, Scott."

My favorite.

"People at Christmas are Santa,

Amari and Scott."

- Aww.

- And oh, "We love you Scott".

[SCOTT] That's very sweet.

I love you, too.

I really do.

And we'll have today's

top stories

after a very short break.

We'll see you in a little-

[BUZZER]

A tour guide, huh?

What's her name?

- Hm?

- Oh, you heard me.

Her name was, well, is,

it's Jamie.

Oh, well whoever this Jamie is,

she's got you blushing

redder than Rudolf's nose.

Hm.

Maybe she is the reason

for all this holiday spirit

you're giving off on camera?

- It's that obvious, huh?

- A little bit, yeah.

Being out in the field's

giving you fresh energy.

Keep it up.

Oh, and call this Jamie, okay?



Here she comes right now.

One moment, please.

It's Scott Morris.

Be peppy.

But not overeager.

Hello, this is Jamie.

Uh-huh.

Mm-hm.

Can I just put you on hold

for one second?

He's coming back to Cooperville

this afternoon for a story

and he wants to take me

to dinner.

A date! That's fantastic!

I haven't been on a date

in so long.

Just think of it as dinner

with a friend.

A successful, charming,

really good-looking friend

we all watch on TV

every morning.

- Just be yourself and have fun.

- Okay.

You know he's still on hold.

Right, yeah. Okay.

What should I say?

Should I go?

Hi, sorry about that.

Busy morning here.

Um, yes, that would be great.

It's perfect. It's just how

I pictured it.

I can't wait to see it at night.

The town's gonna love it.

You pulled all this off

by yourself?

Some of my construction buddies

volunteered to help me out.

- Ah.

- I still have a couple more things to do,

but it will be ready

for tonight's unveiling.

I love it.

Thank you, Sean.

Happy to do it.

Let me get back to it.

Oh, did you hear

the shelter received

a big food donation today?

What? That's fantastic.

You didn't know about it?

Me? No.

Why would I know about it?

Well, I kind of figured,

since your niece works there

and you always know everything

that's going on

around town anyway.

Do they know who the donor is?

No one knows.

But when I find out,

I am going to personally

throw a parade for that person.

I called Scott Morris,

you know, the TV guy,

he said he's gonna come out here

and do a bigger story

in order to figure out who

the generous mystery person is.

That kind of PR is going

to bring a lot more

holiday shoppers to this town.

I wouldn't play it up so much.

I mean, if the donations

were anonymous,

don't you think they probably

want to keep it that way?

I mean, shouldn't we respect

their wishes?

Well, it wouldn't be nearly

as much fun then, would it?

No. It wouldn't.

I'm here with Kylie Monroe

outside of the Cooperville

shelter.

- Hi, Kylie.

- Hi, Scott.

And hi David!

My husband.

We're newlyweds.

Oh, well congratulations.

Tell everybody

what happened here.

It's been a tough winter

in our town.

A lot of families in need

and not enough food

to feed everyone.

But, today a truck showed up

unloading cases of canned goods.

Pasta, eggs, bread, milk.

It was really amazing.

But, just like with the town's

Christmas tree,

it was an anonymous donation.

Did anyone happen to speak

with the donor,

or were there any clues at all?

The delivery guy said

it was all ordered online,

so, we just don't know.

But, whoever they are,

they're really good at

figuring out what's needed

in this town and making

it happen.

And we couldn't be

more grateful.

Or more deserving.

Thank you so much, Kylie.

All right.

Well, there you have it,

everybody.

A lot of acts of kindness here

in Cooperville

but the mystery remains.

Is this the work of one person

or many?

Tell you what, I'm gonna stay

on this story until we find out.



Kind of hard to believe

that in one week

I've interviewed both you

and your niece, right?

I should probably tell David

he's probably next.

Yeah, I'll give him a heads up.

So, how did you become the host

of Wake Up Upstate?

Honestly, I never really set out

to be on a morning show at all.

I was just hoping for a career

somewhere reporting the news.

And I got my big break

in a small little station

in Wilmington, North Carolina.

It's kind of a fun story.

There was a hurricane watch.

Our producer was just desperate

to find someone

to go out on a remote sh**t,

so I volunteered.

No experience at all, zero plan.

- What could go wrong?

- Exactly.

We all thought it was going to just

be a quick weather update, but I...

- Am I talking too much?

- No.

- No, I like it.

- Okay.

Here I was, out there,

just like wind blowing sideways,

soaking wet,

but I was sh**ting

my first story.

Well, clearly you survived.

- Hm.

- Barely.

But I knew after that, I knew

that's what I wanted to do.

I wanted to be out in the field

reporting real news.

So, I just worked hard and paid

my dues and here I am.

Sounds like you made a lot

of sacrifices.

You ever have time for a

relationship or marriage?

Uh... almost, once.

It was a long time ago.

Sounds like there's more

to the story?

No. We just met in the field.

She was a producer and we were

both travel junkies.

There comes a time when

you got to make a decision

whether you want to settle down

or you want to continue on

at the crazy pace

that we were going at.

I was ready, put down roots,

buy a house, start a family.

But right before the wedding,

she decided that the settled

life wasn't for her.

That was it.

Never saw her again.

I'm sorry.

Losing someone you love

is never easy.

I think it was the, the loss

of trust that hurt the most.

But it's in the past,

and you move on.

And honestly, if it

hadn't happened,

I probably wouldn't be

in Cooperville right now.

I have a feeling you would be

in town anyway,

covering the big

Christmas mystery.

I hope that I meet the real

person, I really do.

I mean, if it is just

one person.

And get that interview,

right before Christmas.

Don't take this the wrong way,

but are you sure

it's a good idea

to make a bigger deal

out of this whole thing?

Are you kidding me?

Our viewers are loving this.

They can't get enough of it.

Yeah, I owe it to them

to keep looking into it.

And in the meantime, I get to

spend more time in Cooperville.

With you.

Thanks.

- Oh, here you go.

- Thank you.

- Cheers.

- Cheers.

Oh.

So, you've heard all about me.

What about you?

Do you date often?

To be honest with you,

you are the first man

I've dated since Matt.

Can I ask how long ago that was?

Five years, one month,

three days.

I get it.

I do.

When you lose someone

that's important to you.

I mean, the past makes us

who we are, right?

Exactly, yeah.

You know what, it's after 8:00,

I bet they're on.

Come on, I want to show

you something.

- You did all this?

- Mm-hm.

No, it was just my idea.

There were other people involved

in making it happen.

Humble. Another one

of your great qualities.

I appreciate you saying that,

but I'm just like everybody else

in this town.

You see what I mean?

You're such a good person,

you do so much for the community

and you're not looking for

any credit at all.

That remind you of anybody?

I don't know what

you're getting at.

I'll take your word for it.

It's just all so beautiful.

Would you look at that?

I was just in charge

of the lights,

I had nothing to do with that.

It is a tradition, after all.

Well, we wouldn't want to break

tradition, I guess.

Deck the halls

with boughs of holly

Fa la la la la,

la la la la

'Tis the season

to be jolly

Fa la la la la,

la la la la

It's late.

Yeah, I've got a really

early start tomorrow.

But, I had a really great time

with you tonight.

Me too.

Scott?

There's something

I should tell you.

It gets really icy in the

parking lot, so be careful.

Thank you, I will.

Good night.

Am I late?

You're never here before me.

I need to tell you something.

How did your date with Scott go?

It was nice. It was

really nice.

We went to dinner and we took

a romantic walk in the park.

But that's not what I want

to tell you.

You know the things that have

been going on around town?

The tree in front of town hall,

the music students,

the shelter...

The anonymous acts of kindness?

Yes.

You?

You're our town's Secret Santa?

Ah, it feels so good

to say that.

I've been dying to tell someone.

But why?

I mean, I always knew you

were kind-hearted and generous,

but this is above and beyond.

Yeah, well, the other night,

Kylie and I

were reminiscing about Matthew

and she said something like,

what this town really needs

right now

is someone like Uncle Matt.

And I thought, why not me?

Why not, you know, share

some of my good fortune

with the town and all

the people that need it?

Well, you've certainly

done that.

It's just, it's felt

so rewarding.

I mean, I just can't

stop thinking about

what I'm gonna do next.

By far, you are the coolest

person I have ever known.

But you can't tell anyone, okay?

Of course.

Mums the word.

Good, 'cause I might need

your help.

I am so in.

Okay.

It looks like Scott is going

to keep reporting

on the things that are going

on around Cooperville

until he figured out

who the mystery donor is.

So, you two will be spending

more time together?

That's great.

Yes. But, I also want

to stay anonymous.

You know, I... I... I don't want

people to feel like

they have to thank me

or they owe me anything.

Sounds like you got yourself

into a bit of a pickle.

Do you think Scott suspects?

- No, I don't think so.

- That's good.

Christmas is in five days.

If we can stall him until then,

keep him off track,

he won't uncover your identity

before Christmas

and then, poof, the story

will go away.

Okay, that's good.

Stall him.

How do we do that?

Oh, I've got it.

What if I do a couple of

good deeds on your behalf,

to throw him off the scent?

Meanwhile, when you're together,

you act a little bit Scroogey.

Scroogey?

You know, selfish, cold-hearted,

not into Christmas.

That way he won't see you

as the type

who would do any of this stuff.

Maybe I should just tell him

it's me,

I mean, I don't like

misleading him.

You said you like doing

these things for people

but you want to stay anonymous,

right?

Yes.

So, let's try my plan.

You get to spend time with Scott

and do your good deeds.

Okay, but if he asks me,

I'm gonna tell him the truth.

Agreed.

So? What's your next mission,

Agent Double S?

Secret Santa?

Okay. I have some ideas.



Merry Christmas, Colleen.

How did you know it was me?

Can I help you find anything?

You want to buy all these toys?

That's right.

Ring 'em up.

Happy to.

It'll take me a few minutes.

Wait a second, Colleen,

are you the Secret Santa?

Me? No.

Let's just say I work

for a client who is, okay?

Oh, okay. Cool.

Yeah. So, I'm gonna buy

all those toys

but I need you to do

something for me.

Sure. Anything.

Great. If anyone asks,

here's what I want you to say.

[LAUGHING]

This goes all through town

and it stops at a great

little restaurant,

where they have some

very good fondue.

Aunt Jamie, can I talk to you

for a second?

Yeah, sure.

Hey, Colleen, can you come help

this couple book a trolley tour?

- Sure.

- Thanks.

Hey. What's up?

Well, I have some good news.

Someone bought all

the toy drive gifts.

Yes, that's awesome.

But, so, is there something

you want to tell me?

Hmm. No, not that

I can think of.

Really?

Because I know for a fact you've

been hiding something from me.

Okay. I was gonna tell you.

I didn't mean any harm.

I... I... Let me explain.

Please do, because it was pretty

shocking to find out online

that you're dating Scott Morris.

Oh, that. Yes, I can

explain that.

Why don't I take you

for a coffee?

So, earlier this morning

a customer wearing

a hat and sunglasses bought

all of the remaining gifts

for the Cooperville toy drive.

Someone who the owner here

describes as being a very tall,

over six-foot female

with blonde curly hair,

used a cane but had

no noticeable limp.

Did I get that right?

Now that I think about it, she

could have been wearing a wig.

Well, there you have

it everybody.

Who is this mystery person?

Great. Thank you, so much...

I think.

Don't mention it.

He's a pretty great guy.

He's funny and smart

and down to earth.

And handsome.

You like him.

We're still getting

to know each other.

I can't believe you

didn't tell me.

You never keep secrets from me.

Maybe I do.

Oh, really?

What else are you keeping

from me besides Scott?

And speak of the devil.

Jamie.

- Hi.

- Hi.

[CLEARS THROAT]

You remember my niece?

How could I forget.

Hi Kylie.

Hi.

I didn't think you'd be back

in Cooperville so soon.

Well, I was just at your

husband's toy shop and it seems

that someone in disguise bought

all the toys for the toy drive.

So, the mystery continues.

Your job is so cool.

Isn't his job cool?

So cool.

I better get back to the studio.

I'll see you.

Do you want to join us

for dinner tonight?

Our third wheel over here

needs a date.

I wasn't aware we had

dinner plans.

You must have forgotten.

You should join us.

I would love to.

Um, where's dinner?

It's a surprise.

Aunt Jamie will send you

all the details.

Just don't wear anything fancy,

okay?

Perfect. I'll see you there.

- Okay.

- Okay.

[KYLIE] Looks like we have

a double date.



Did you get it?

Don't be shy, come on up.

Would you like some bread?

There you go.

Thanks for being here.

Merry Christmas.

Have seconds if you want.

Okay. Lots of food.

Lots of food, everybody.

Hey, thanks for this.

Really.

I mean, usually I spend

so much time at the studio,

reporting on other people's

good deeds,

that it just feels great to

actually be helping out myself.

So, thank you.

What?

I was just thinking,

I've watched you for so many

years, every morning, on TV.

I felt like I knew you.

And now I'm getting to know you,

in real life,

in a soup kitchen.

It's just all still

a little surreal.

You know that I'm just

a regular guy

who wears makeup every day

and talks to people, right?

[CHUCKLES]

I think you're a little more

than that, Scott.

Well, hello.

Oh, my gosh, look at you,

you're all cozy.

Merry Christmas.



You guys are gonna love France,

especially Paris.

I mean, the sights

and the food...

The bread, you cannot fathom

how good the bread is.

Mmm, bread. I love bread.

You think you love bread now,

you just wait, man.

When's the honeymoon?

It was supposed to be this week,

but we decided to postpone

for a while.

That's too bad, how come?

We want to buy a house

next year,

so, we decided to save as much

as we can for now.

These two are far too young

to be so sensible.

We'll get to Paris eventually,

right?

Right.

So, what else are you working on

besides the Secret Santa story?

Hmm.

A lot of serious journalism,

as a matter of fact.

A caroling competition,

there's a dog that can bark

"Jingle Bells."

Big stuff. I love it.

I really do.

But the viewers,

they just want to find out

who's behind these stories

of anonymous generosity.

That's what they want to know.

Really? I don't see why

it's so interesting.

Why is that?

Well, at the heart of it,

it's just some guy

giving people a bunch of stuff

they don't really need.

What?

Just, um, I'm a little surprised

hearing that come from you.

Well, I don't mean to sound

cold-hearted, but I'm just...

I'm a little tired of this

whole Secret Santa gag.

Well, I'm not, and I'm happy

to help however I can.

We know just about everyone

in town.

Scott's a professional reporter,

he'll be fine.

Personally, I say go with

the talented dog.

This fruit cake just

really looks good.

Mmm... so good.

You should try it.



Okay.

Good morning.

Don't "good morning" me.

I barely slept last night

because I couldn't stop thinking

about dinner and how weird

you were acting.

And then it hit me.

It's you, isn't it?

I'm not following.

You can't fool me.

It's you.

You're Cooperville's

Secret Santa.

Okay, yes, it's me.

I can't believe I didn't

figure it out sooner.

I mean, it all makes

perfect sense.

But, why don't you want anyone

to know?

Because I didn't do any of

those things for attention.

So, you acted like

a weirdo at dinner

so Scott wouldn't think

it was you?

Colleen told me to act Scroogey,

which felt so weird.

I'm not doing that again.

Colleen knows?

Yes, I needed help.

I couldn't just walk

into David's shop

and order up all the toys,

could I?

I'm gonna tell Scott.

Kylie.

Unless, you let me help

with your next anonymous gift.

Of course.

Yes, you can help.

My last Christmas here before

we move will be so memorable.

So, what's the next plan?

I haven't thought of it yet.

They kind of just come to me.

I know. How about we adopt

a family?

We find a family that's had

an especially hard year

and we help give them

a great Christmas?

Someone like...

[BOTH] The Cain family.

Sean's carpentry business

has really been struggling.

Yeah, and Marcie lost her job.

They could really use

some holiday cheer.

Let's give the Cain family

their best Christmas ever.

So, Kylie knows our secret?

She figured me out.

The more the merrier.

So, what's the plan,

secret Samaritan?

Oh, sh**t.

Jamie! Jamie, hi!

Scott. Hi.

You planning on feeding

the whole town?

No.

Of course not. No.

It wouldn't be the holidays

if you didn't overeat.

I know I do.

You've got like 30 bags

of groceries there.

Yes, I do.

Do you need some help?

No, I'm good.

I didn't expect you to be back

in town so soon.

You working on another story?

Better get to it.

Yeah, well we probably should

get back to work.

Actually, just wanted to say hi.

Hey, are you free tonight?

There's a place in West Hudson

I'd love to take you to

if you are.

Uh, yeah, okay.

Great. Okay.

I'll text you the address.

- All right.

- Okay.

And you're sure you don't need

any help?

No. I'm good.

- Okay, let's do it.

- Okay.

You think he suspects you?

No. I mean, he was looking

at me weird

but I don't think he thought

much of it.

People stock up during

the holidays, right?

Not that much.

Should we call it off?

No, no way.

He's taking me

somewhere tonight.

I think that will buy us

enough time to get to Christmas

if I have your help.

[BOTH] Absolutely.

[DAVID] Hey Colleen.

So, another person knows

our secret?

Sorry, I had to tell him.

I couldn't load everything

by myself.

Plus, we're newlyweds.

We don't keep secrets

from each other.

I totally get it.

All right, let's do this.

This will work for you,

look inside.

Uh, yeah, put that on.

We look ridiculous.

I think that's the point.

Now, if we're spotted, it'll be

hard for them to identify us.



Thank you.

- Hi.

- Wow.

You look amazing.

Not that you don't always

look beautiful,

I just meant now.

I'm gonna stop talking.

Breaking news,

Scott Morris speechless.

Thank you.

I've never been here before.

Where is everybody?

Did you buy this place out?

It's just my way to say

thank you

for sharing your town's

Christmas with me.

- Shall we?

- We shall.

- Definitely.

- Okay.

Here, let me get this.

- Thank you.

- Okay.

- Are you okay there?

- Yeah, I got it.

David, be careful.

Shhh.

- Okay, let's go.

- Faster, guys.

Here, take this.



- Thank you.

- Ooh. Okay.

- What are we having?

- Oh, here we go.

I had the chef prepare

some of the Morris family

Christmas classics.

The Cornish hen,

which is kind of the star

of the show, a little bit.

And then you've got a little bit

of the mashed maple

sweet potatoes.

Oh, my gosh, it all looks

so amazing.

Good.

Being here for the holidays for

a change has got me reminiscing

about family Christmases and

the feast that we used to have.

The Morrises don't do Christmas

dinners anymore?

Well, my sister moved

to New Zealand,

my folks passed away

a few years ago, so...

- I'm sorry.

- Yeah, me too.

I miss them.

Especially this time of year.

So, are you glad that you

stayed in town for Christmas?

Absolutely.

I love being here for,

for a lot of reasons.

Reminded me of what I loved most

at Christmastime.

The way that people

come together,

and the joy that you get

from Christmas traditions.

I mean, I totally get why

you love this town so much

and I know what I'm missing

from my own life.

And if I jetted off to Belize

I wouldn't have met you.

[DOORBELL RINGS]

Marcie, kids!

Come here!

- You have to see this!

- What is it, honey?

Wha...

I can't... This is amazing!

This is incredible!

Can you believe this?

[MARCIE] Kids, look over here.

Oh, my gosh!

Grab the one on top.

- Yay, so many presents!

- Honey, look at this!

- Santa came.

- Yes, it's a huge present.

[MARCIE] Yes, Secret Santa

is with us.

Kids, can you believe that

Secret Santa came here?

Grab all the stuff...

Anyone else got

the warm fuzzies?

- Mmm.

- Wow.

This is ridiculously good.

Good. I'm so happy.

I've got a secret for you.

Because as good as the food

is here,

and I love the food,

I actually come for

the gingerbread cake.

It's so great.

And you're probably wondering

what these guys are.

Another Morris family tradition,

right here.

These are Christmas crackers

from England.

Okay.

Typically, you open them

before the meal,

but my parents always used

to make us wait until dessert.

So pretty.

I'm gonna show you how to do it.

Okay.

So, you go... you go in here

and you find the little tab.

Uh-huh.

And I'm gonna show you right

now why they call it a cr*cker.

Make sure you squeeze them hard,

and then on the count of three,

everybody pulls

at the same time.

- You got 'em?

- Okay. Ready?

Here we go, one, two, three!

[CRACKERS POP]

There it is! You see?

Isn't that good?

Yeah, wow.

What is all this?

It's just more surprises.

For instance, I got a joke

for you.

Who is Santa's favorite singer?

I... Yeah, I don't know.

Elfis Presley.

[LAUGHS]

Good one.

Okay, ready? I'll tell you

mine.

What do reindeer hang

on their Christmas trees?

I have no idea.

- Hornaments.

- Hornaments.

[LAUGHING]

I thought mine was bad.

Now, if you choose

to open that up,

then you gotta wear it.

Oh, it's open now.

You gotta wear it.

Okay.

Like this.

See that?

Look at you!

How is it possible that you

still look great wearing this?

[LAUGHS]

- How about a little coronation dance?

- Okay.

- Yeah?

- Mm-hm.

Since we're royalty.

Okay. If you say so.



Snow is falling

lightly on the ground

People smiling,

love is all around

There's a feeling

in the air tonight

You are here beside me

and the stars

are shining bright...

There is something I want

to tell you.

[PHONE CHIMES]

- It's okay, you can answer it.

- No, no, no.

What, what were you gonna say?

[PHONE CHIMES]

It might be an emergency.

Go ahead.

Okay.

It's an anonymous text.

"Secret Santa does it again."

Oh?

- And there's a video attached.

- Oh.

No, you know what, it's work.

No.

- I can look at it later.

- I want to see it.

Okay.

- [CAIN FAMILY CHEERING]

- This is incredible!

Oh, the Cain family,

I know them well.

- You do?

- Mm-hm.

I'd love to interview them.

Could you introduce me, maybe?

Sure, yeah.

Great.

Okay. Um...

What were you going to say?

Oh, um...

I just wanted to say

that I'm really glad I met you.

Me too.

...Christmas, Christmas

once again

What a wonderful Christmas

moment caught on camera.

Absolutely.

It's been a very tough year

for the Cain family,

but thanks to someone they may

never get the chance to thank,

at least their Christmas will be

a memorable one.

It's a great reminder about

what the holidays are all about.

Absolutely.

See you tomorrow, everybody.

Bye-bye.

[BUZZER]

I've been getting emails

from all over the county

from people inspired to give

back in their own communities.

Hm. Well, that means

that we are doing our job.

- [PHONE RINGS]

- Absolutely.

- Excuse me.

- Okay.

This is Scott Morris.

Really?

Last night felt so good.

It's a shame you missed it,

but, I guess, that was

the point.

Uh... we have a problem.

Last night with Scott

was so perfect.

That's fantastic.

Yeah, I'm not really seeing

the problem.

Well, the problem is, I'm not

being honest with him.

And right when I was about

to tell him the truth,

the phone beeped with that video

and I chickened out.

- Good.

- No, not good!

I don't like keeping

secrets from

the only man that I've really

liked in a very long time.

So, here's what I'm gonna do.

I am going to just come clean

and I'm gonna tell him

the truth,

say I'm sorry for wasting

your time,

even though I could have outed

myself days ago.

And just hope that

he looks past it.

Or, we could stop

the anonymous donations.

He has nothing to report on,

Christmas arrives, the story's

forgotten and no one ever knows?

No, he deserves better

than that.

You're right.

You should tell him.

Right now.

Now?

Well, he's about to walk in

through the door.

How'd you do that?

You guys are not gonna

believe this,

but we found the Secret Santa.

What? Who?

The person responsible for

all this anonymous generosity.

I'm gonna go meet him right now.

Give him a little pre-interview

before I get him on

the show tomorrow.

Would it be okay if I came

with you?

I don't see why not.

Okay.

Great.

Let's go.

So, why did you want to do

these things anonymously?

Just wanted to spread,

you know, some holiday cheer.

Make people happy.

So, am I gonna be on

TV tomorrow?

Oh, well, we got a couple things

to go over

before we start scheduling.

Ah, ah, sorry. I'm curious

about one thing.

What made you want to fund

that trip to New York

for those five students?

They're great kids.

They deserve it.

Except it was DC,

and they're a quartet.

That's a quartet, is four kids,

not five.

Yeah, yeah, four.

I know that.

Anyway, they're going to DC and

that's all that matters to me.

What can I say?

I'm just bursting

with holiday spirit.

So, would it be all right

if we sh**t the interview

at my tire shop instead of

the studio?

Yeah, I can make that happen.

Uh, the Christmas tree

in front of town square.

What was your inspiration

for that?

I go by my gut and it felt like,

you know,

every town needs

a Christmas tree.

So, we... we good?

Where'd you get it?

Joe's Christmas Trees?

Okay.

I don't need you

cross-examining me

and questioning my motives,

okay?

I withdraw my admission.

I'm not the Secret Santa.

You happy now?

You really thought

it was him, though?

Well, I mean, I wanted to break

the story before Christmas

so, I guess, just part of me

wanted to believe him.

Can I ask you something?

Um, does finding out this

person's identity really matter?

I mean, it's just another

news story, right?

Yeah, and I thought that

at first

but it's just such

a feel-good mystery

that people are getting

so interested in.

I gotta believe that

it's inspired people

to celebrate Christmas a little

differently this year.

You know what I mean?

Yeah. I do.

Well, I better get back

to the studio.

Me too.

I mean, to the office.

Okay.

- See you later.

- Bye.

[VOICEMAIL] Hey, this is Scott.

Leave me a message and I'll get

back to you as soon as I can.

Hey, Scott. It's Jamie.

I was hoping that you could

meet me at the auditorium

where we first met.

Tonight at 8:00?

I'll be there with

the Secret Santa.

Okay. Bye.

[KYLIE] You should do

this again next year.

[JAMIE] I don't know.

I loved helping people

but keeping it a secret

has not been easy.

What did you want to show me?

Look what you've inspired.

Wow. How cool is this?

People from all over

the county donated.

This is amazing.

I'm so glad.

But I'm really feeling like

this was all a big mistake.

I don't like misleading Scott.

I'm gonna tell him

the truth tonight.

Hopefully he will respect

my wishes and keep my secret.

What if he doesn't?

I'll just have to accept

whatever happens.

I have to go.

See ya later.

Hey, I need your help

with something.



Well, there she is, but where's

the Secret Santa?

- Hey.

- Hi.

I didn't expect

to find you alone.

About that.

I came here to tell you that...

I'm the Secret Santa!

What?

Kylie?

Actually, it's me.

Wait, Jamie, what's going on?

I have no idea, but I came here

to tell you that I...

Secret Santa, here.

Wait a second, guys.

So, let me get this straight,

all of you were lying to me?

No. It was me.

To string me along

so that you'd get more publicity

for your town?

Is that what this is about?

Is that what's happening?

No.

If you would just

let me explain.

All of this was a lie?

Scott, if you would just give me

a chance to explain.

Explain what?

Like, I don't even know

what's happening here!

They had nothing to do

with it, okay?

We were just trying to help.

I have been wanting to tell you

the truth this whole time.

I trusted you.

Scott.

[SIGHS]



We just wanted to stop by

and make sure you're okay.

Yeah. I'll be fine.

Besides, it's Christmas, not

a time to mope around, right?

We're sorry about what happened

with Scott.

Maybe we took things

a little too far.

No, don't be.

If anything, you two helped me

do good deeds

for a lot of people.

Good morning, you two.

Oh. Kylie, something came

for you this morning.

For me? Here?

I was surprised too.

What is it?

Two tickets to France.

Leaving tonight!

[LAUGHS]

Aunt Jamie, this is so sweet.

You did not have to do this.

No, I didn't.

- Really?

- I swear, it wasn't me.

David?

Is this one of your surprises?

Not me.

Don't look at me.

Is there a note in there

or anything?

Nothing.

Wait.

Did we just get Secret Santa'd?

It looks that way.

[LAUGHING]

Well, bon voyage.

Well, it looks like we'll be

away for Christmas after all.

Which I couldn't be

happier about.

You two deserve the best

honeymoon ever.

Thanks.

And we better get packing,

like, now.

Yeah, you guys have

a great time.

Send me lots of pics, okay?

We will. Merry Christmas.

- Uh, I gotta make some calls.

- Okay.

Well, I have to admit,

you made this the most

memorable Christmas ever.

Not too stale for you?

No. Not at all.

I think Uncle Matt

would have been proud of us.

Me too.

- I'll miss you.

- I'll miss you too.

And, you swear this wasn't you?

Believe it or not, this is

one of those random acts

that I had nothing to do with.

I'll miss you.

And hey, Aunt Jamie, maybe

you should give him a call.

Yeah, maybe I will.

Thank you.

There's something

I should tell you...

There's something I want

to tell you...

I have been wanting to tell you

the whole time...



Christmas Eve is finally here.

Scott, I understand you have

a very special story

that you want to share

with us today.

I really do. I do.

And if I look a little tired

this morning

it's only because I was up very

late last night working on it.

I'm sure our viewers

are wondering

if you finally unmasked

Cooperville's Secret Santa.

I'm sure they are.

And, I'm sorry to say

that I have not.

But, I have an even better story

that I'd like to share

with all of you.

But, before I do that, I need

to say a heartfelt thank you

to all the people of Cooperville

for sharing this Christmas

with me.

I've gotta say, for the first

time in many years,

I really felt home

for the holidays.

So, thank you.

And, without further ado,

here's the story.

Hope you enjoy.

The holiday season means a lot

of things to a lot of people.

But, for the town

of Cooperville,

this year Christmas was

all about a Secret Santa.

And it seems everyone wanted

to be one,

whether it was making a

difference close to home,

helping out a friend,

or providing something

for strangers in need.

So, what started

as a personal, anonymous mission

quickly spread to

an entire community.

It's just so easy to say

a quick Merry Christmas

and then just get lost in

our hectic holiday plans.

But the residents of Cooperville

consciously made time to give.

They rolled up their sleeves,

and they showed each other,

they showed all of us, what

the season is truly all about.

It's about letting others

know that you care.

It's about showing them

that they matter.

It's about doing, for others.

And the Secret Santas of

Cooperville have done just that.

[DIRECTOR] And we're out.

I don't know what to say.

My work the last couple weeks

definitely has reminded me

that there's good out there

in the world

and that people need to see it.

And honestly, I don't want

to stop telling these stories.

You think maybe Cory's

going to want to take vacation

every Christmas?

He might.

So, no more jet-setting

to exotic places

at the holidays for you?

I think I'm gonna save those

for summer hiatus.

- Oh.

- Hm.

Looks like somebody's got

their holiday spirit back.

So, how will you be planning

to spend Christmas?

I mean, I hate to picture you

sitting all alone in your condo

watching the snow fall.

I'll think of something.

Mm-mm. I will think for you.

Call her.

Merry Christmas, Amari.

I should just text him.

No, I shouldn't text him.

I should call him.

But if he doesn't want

to talk to me,

then I'll just send my call

to voicemail.

And what do I say?

I don't know what to say.

And then if I don't say anything

on voicemail

he'll still know I called

because...

You know what, I should just

go old school.

Great.

Looking for someone?

You're Amari Harris.

I am. And you are?

Jamie.

Monroe.

Um, I was looking for Scott,

is he around?

Oh, he left a while ago.

Said he was going home.

Okay. Okay.

You could call him.

Merry Christmas.

[VOICEMAIL] Hey, this is Scott,

leave me a message

and I'll get back to you

as soon as I can.

Hi, it's me. Jamie.

Look, I... I wanted to apologize

for what happened.

I had no idea that Kylie

and my friends

would interfere like that

and I would never waste your

time or mislead you.

I was just trying to help

a few people out

and spread some Christmas

cheer in my town.

But then something

unexpected happened.

I met you.

And we got to know each other,

and I got to see what a kind,

good man you are.

And for the first time,

when we kissed,

I felt like I was ready to have

love in my life again.

And that is the best Christmas

present I could hope for.

So, thank you.

Merry Christmas.

[CAROLERS] Joy to the world,

the lord is come

Let earth receive

her king...

Well, I don't like to toot

my own horn, but...

You pulled it off, Mr. Mayor.

We pulled it off, team work.

That story that Scott did,

boy, that was really touching.

I actually got a little

misty-eyed.

Me too.

It was you, wasn't it?

I don't know what you're

talking about.

You can deny it all you want,

but that was a good thing

you did, Jamie.

I'm very proud of you.

Hey, that's my cue.

Care to join us for a little

caroling at the gazebo?

I think I'm gonna head

home soon.

Merry Christmas.

Hey, to you as well.

[CAROLERS SINGING

"SILENT NIGHT"]

...Radiant beams

From thy holy face

With the dawn

Of redeeming grace

Jesus Lord

at thy birth...

I didn't expect to see you here.

After almost 48 hours I started

to miss this town.

And, I got a mystery invitation.

Apparently, the winter carnival

is the...

is the place to be

on Christmas Eve.

That it is.

Especially since you're here.

I take it you got my message.

The story you did

was really amazing.

Only because you're amazing.

All of those selfless acts

inspired so many people.

Where'd you get

all those pictures?

Flash drive just showed up

at my office yesterday,

anonymously, of course.

Huh.

Kylie.

Speaking of Kylie,

I hope she and David

are enjoying their flight

to Paris right now.

Once you fly first class,

there's just no going back.

- First class.

- Mm-mm.

Ah-ha, you are the one

that anonymously gifted

that trip to them.

I had some miles saved up

and I honestly don't believe

that anybody should have to wait

for their honeymoon, so...

Besides, this way I get you

all to myself this Christmas.

As long as there's

no more secrets.

No more secrets, I promise.

Until next year.



I've been dreaming

of Christmastime

Every day through

the year

Trees shine in

every window

Children all dream

Of reindeer hoof-prints in

the snow

Christmastime the best

time of the year