good morning, america. breaking overnight, christmas storm. >> wow. >> a wall of tornados slams the south. one twister shredding a strip mall and a day care filled with children. cars at a walmart sent flying in the air. at least four people dead. and more severe weather makes travel treacherous for millions hitting the road for the holiday. and breaking overnight. former president george h.w. bush raced to the hospital after shortness of breath, kept overnight. new details about his condition. the show will go on. sony flip-flops on the interview, revealing it will be screened in hundreds of theaters across the country on christmas day. showings already sold out. the big question, will north

korea retaliate? what can they do? and "gma" is home for the holidays. we have seen the incredible reunions this week. now we've saved best for last. this mom about to get the christmas surprise of a lifetime as "gma" says -- >> ho ho ho! it's christmas eve! and good morning, america. we are not going to keep santa for long. we know he has a lot of work to two this morning. and thank you for joining us this christmas eve. it is a busy one. >> a busy day. we are going to bring you all of the latest on president bush in a moment. but first, that deadly storm. look at this picture from columbia, mississippi, an ambulance overturned there.

>> and this after a storm swept through the area. we want to get to matt gutman in columbia, mississippi, with the very latest. good morning, matt. >> good morning, lara. now, in the light of day, we're getting the full scale of the devastation here. this was the interior of a tire store. all of it got pushed back about 20 feet into that stand of trees. the buts of the place got tossed, all of the way back there. now, the storm came so quickly, so ferociously, that some people didn't have time to seek shelter. >> wow. >> reporter: a series of tornados slashing into mississippi's pine belt late tuesday, leaving four people dead in the mounds of debris, dozens reported hurt. >> we were trying to outrun this monster storm. but it come right to us, and it shook us like a rag doll. >> reporter: in marion county, mississippi, a tornado shredding this strip mall. inside her nail salon, young mother amber was killed.

and at this walmart, last minute holiday shoppers scrambling when the roof blew off, trapping and injuring people inside, and the cars in the parking lot sent flying. this sledge hammer of wind, turning this body shop into a lump of twisted siding. this is what it looked like yesterday. the reported tornadoes so powerful they flipped car, even this ambulance, ripping the roof off a nearby day care. all of the children there were accounted for. debris raining on roads, severing power lines and triggering epic traffic jams. the damage and death toll causing the governor to declare a state of emergency in two counties. >> looked out in the yard, and stuff was flying everywhere, the trampoline, shingles flying off the house. >> reporter: tornadoes also reported in louisiana and georgia. in louisiana, nearly two dozen homes damaged. look at these trailer, flattened like cardboard boxes. >> it really, really, came so fast. and that's the big surprise in

all of this. how quick it hit. >> reporter: and pummelled by golf ball size hail. and in the gulf coast region, flash flooding. in tallahassee, 7 inches of rain piling up, making it the wettest day on record. fire fighters forced to rescue this stranded driver from a sinking car. now you mentioned, lara, that ambulance earlier, well, we managed to find it here. we asked authorities where it came from and they say, we have no idea. we have been notified everybody in mississippi has been accounted for. now they get get down to the business of mourning and cleaning up right away. these linesman cutting the lines, here.

lara, george. >> and that is great news. all right, matt. we want to get right to rob marciano. for more on those severe storms. >> good morning. yesterday, clearly a volatile and dangerous day. we had 11 reports of tornado, most of which are around that cell in mississippi. all in all, 57 reports of wind, hail and tornados across the deep south. that threat now pushes off to the east, just issued this morning a tornado watch for northern florida, southern georgia and into the carolinas. even in through ohio, a very, very large storm encompassing all of the states east of mississippi. here's the timing of it. the wind in the northeast. some of the wind, difficult travel, no doubt about that. the backside of this, will bring in cooler air. that will bring snow, a couple inches, from chicago to lower michigan. we'll talk about who's going to see a white christmas later on. >> tough timing. >> a lot of activity. we are going to move now to the breaking news on former president george h.w. bush taken to the hospital this morning after experiencing shortness of breath. ryan owens is outside houston methodist hospital with the latest. good morning, ryan. >> reporter: good morning, george. the bush family is insisting this trip to the hospital, just a precaution.

but the fact is, the former president was rushed here by ambulance late last night. and let us not forget, he is 90 years old. former president george h.w. bush was experiencing shortness of breath, according to a spokesman, when he was rushed to houston methodist late tuesday night. at the time his wife was reading "'twas the night before christmas" with houston texas star, j.j. watt at a public event here. she left immediately after and told people only that her husband was at home. this is hardly the 41st president's first trip to the hospital. almost two years ago to the day president bush was admitted for a bronchitis-related cough. he spent christmas 2012 here and almost two months, including time in the icu. the elder bush has experienced a series of health issues since his presidency. he was diagnosed with graves

december in 1991, a thyroid condition that also causes an irregular lar heart beat. he's been confined to a wheelchair in the last two years but that's barely slowed him down. he was last seen publicly in a golf cart at a houston texans game a month ago. and caught with barbara on the kiss cam. weeks before that, his son, president george w. bush paid tribute to his father at his presidential library at texas a&m university. >> his great contribution to my presidency was the comfort he provided. >> reporter: bush 41 has seemed to defy his age for years. he spent his 90th birthday in june, skydiving near his summer home in maine. he celebrated his 75th, 80th, and 85th birthdays exactly the same way. he really is remarkable. the current president who is on vacation with his family has been briefed on the former

president's condition. he and the first lady michelle obama send their best records for the holiday season to the bush family. george? >> we share in that. ryan, thanks very much. and the latest on the movie that set off a cyber war with north korea. in a major reversal, sony will now show the movie in select theaters on christmas day. and sony released a new trailer overnight. bazi kanani has the story. >> hello, north korea. >> reporter: this is not the christmas present kim jong-un wanted, but the spoof will appear tomorrow, after all. >> it's my opportunity to fight terrorism on christmas day. >> reporter: hundreds of theaters across the country, deciding to show the film. many christmas day viewings sold out in hours. those threats by hackers to carry out a 9/11-style attack on the theaters don't seem to be keeping anyone away. >> i have very little concern about an attack, but i also think that we're not going to be stupid about it. >> reporter: the movie's stars celebrating, too. james franco writing on instagram, victory. and seth rogan on twitter,

the people have spoken. freedom has prevailed. >> take him out. >> like for drinks? >> like to dinner? >> reporter: president obama who said this about the decision to pull the movie last week -- >> i think they made a mistake. >> reporter: -- is now applauding the movie giant. this statement, allows people to make their own choices about the film and we welcome that outcome. president obama promised to respond to the sony hack and over the last few days the internet in the her mitt kingdom has gone dark at times. this morning the obama administration will not say if the outages are a cyber counterstrike. either way, the question remains, will north korea retaliate now that the movie will be seen. >> we got the interview. >> reporter: the fbi is encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to law enforcement. some lawmakers are asking for special congressional screenings of the film. sony is working to release the video on demand. so most people should be able to see it right at home. george? >> okay, bazi, thanks.

let's get more on this from our security analyst, matthew olson. former director of the national counter terrorism center. matt, thanks for joining us this morning. we saw the fbi warning. presumably president obama wouldn't be saying this should be run if he thought the threat was credible. >> there's no indication this is a credible threat. the white house and national security staff is working with the fbi and the department of homeland security to assess the threat and look at suspicious activity. but, at this point, every indication is that this was really just bluster from north korea and the hackers. but not a credible threat of a physical attack on any movie goers. >> but what can they do in cyber space now? we have seen the north korean internet go down a couple times. the white house not saying the u.s. is behind it. can north korea retaliate in that space? >> well, we've seen they do have capabilities, so, yes, i think, is the short answer. they could retaliate. and i think sony needs to be prepared for additional attacks, but sony is not alone.

they are no different than many companies in being unprepared for this type of attack. so, i think this has been a bit of a wake-up call for countries across the country to try to improve their defenses against this type of destructive attack. >> the fbi counter terror director said 90% of the american companies are vulnerable in this way. thanks very much. and turn now to tributes for the two new york city police officers shot and killed over the weekend. mayor bill de blasio joined the city in a moment of silence. a moment of unity for a city divided in recent weeks. and abc's david wright has the story. >> reporter: overnight anti-police protesters took to the streets despite pleas from new york's mayor bill de blasio to hold off until the two officers could be laid to rest. he's under fire himself for criticizing police tactics in the past.

hours earlier, he made it clear he's now in lock step with the ranks. >> officer ramos and officer liu believed in something. they believed in making this world better. they believed in making this city better. >> reporter: the mayor's message of unity accompanied by a city-wide moment of silence for the fallen officers. in brooklyn, the sea of flowers and candles continues to grow. >> the police are our first line of defense and last line of defense. >> reporter: police departments across the country share not only in the grief but the worry. >> when a guy in new york is murdered in cold blood, we feel it deep in our heart here. it opens our eyes. >> reporter: the nypd is investigating at least a dozen possible copy cats. but many officers find themselves many dedicated to protecting and serving. especially during the holidays. >> did you say your granddaughter wanted that? >> reporter: these florida police officers granting christmas wishes with operation santa stop. and in kentucky, instead of

traffic tickets, police are doling out $100 bills. >> inside the warning is a little something. maybe you could spoil your grand kid with, or maybe you, yourself. >> oh, my goodness. >> reporter: for "good morning america," david wright, abc news, new york. david wright, thank you. now to "gma" weekend anchor, paula faris with the other top stories. >> good morning. >> good morning, george. we begin with breaking news out of missouri where police shot and killed a teenager overnight. investigators show this new video shows the 18-year-old pointing gun at police. you can see his arm extended right there. it happened at a gas station in berkeley two miles from merge son where michael brown was killed. that shooting sparking more clashes in the area. an angry cloud gathered at the scene where fireworks and bricks were thrown at the officers. and now a frightening moment for some holiday travelers. two 737 jets colliding, sheering one of the wings. it happened on the ground at one

of the country's busiest airports, la guardia, here in new york. the american airlines flight had come from dallas, and the southwest plane was about to depart from denver and mr. their were no injuries. go ahead and check out your 401(k), because wall street, it's on a roll. the dow closed above 18,000 for the first time ever. it's gained almost a thousand points in just five days. and an amazing rescue overnight in northern california to show you after a couple's boat got stuck on a small dam. fire fighters could not reach the man and woman. so a highway patrol helicopter came in, plucking them to safety. neither person was hurt. and in hawaii, lava flow threatening to wipe out a shopping center has stalled for now. officials fear that the lava would hit pahoa marketplace on christmas day. but the lava's edge stopped about 700 yards from the shopping center. and speaking of hawaii, president obama is getting lots of fresh air and exercise on his hawaiian vacation.

that looks lovely, doesn't it? he went on a scenic hike with malia and bunch of friends. sporting shorts and sneakers. the president stopped to chat with tourists. he also squeezed in a round of golf. and finally a 13-year-old stealing the show at a college basketball game. her name is veronica. she had to make four shots in 35 seconds. she makes the layup, hits the free throw, and then the three-pointer. she didn't take any time there. and finally the half court shot. nothing but net. here it comes. veronica, how about that? she had them dancing in the aisles. because she won a free car for everyone. just kidding. she actually won free pizza. but that's definitely something to cheer about. how about that? four pretty good shots in 30 seconds. >> pretty good? >> made a half court shot? >> that's all she got was pizza? >> oh, come on. ebenezer scrooge. >> i thought you were going to say a college scholarship -- >> i'm sure college basketball coaches are scouting her. >> good point.

>> thanks, paula. we have news for the last minute christmas shoppers. linzie janis is here with tips on where you can get the best deals right now. hey, linzie. >> reporter: good morning, george. believe it or not, the store behind me has been open for 24 hours since december 17 but toys 'r us stores will not close until 9:00 p.m. tonight. and the longer hours with deep discounts seem to be doing the trick for retailers. this holiday shopping season already shaping up to be better than last year. >> christmas is almost here. >> reporter: this morning, the final countdown for present procrastinators. and the christmas clock is ticking. less than 15 hours to shop at target, 14 at toys "r" us. 13 at walmart and 11 hours at macy's and kohl's where doors have been open for 100 hours straight, when they both close at 6:00 p.m. tonight. as for online shopping, amazon offering free same-day delivery in some cities.

but you have to place the order by 10:00 a.m. less than three hours left. another option? >> given the shipping delays last year, more and more people are choosing to buy their items online and pick them up in the store, and the stores actually encouraging that trend, too. >> reporter: buy online at toys 'r us, pick it up in an hour. place an order at best buy.com by 4:00 p.m. and pick it up by 6:00. but procrastinators shouldn't expect to get your pick of the litter, especially when it comes to the season's hottest toys. >> this year there are a few toys that are especially popular. there's a toy called puppy surprise. it's a retro toy. >> reporter: some parents so desperate to get their hands on the widely sold out "frozen" ice palace play set, they're paying double for it on ebay. money ticking up while the clock ticks down. now retail experts tell us today is not the day for browsing. if you have to go to the stores, do your research online first to

get in and out quickly. george. >> nothing relaxing about that at all. >> i'm glad they reminded us. today is not the day to browse. >> it's go time, people. go. elbow pads. >> isn't that every day for you? >> who's going to have a white christmas? >> snow is pretty scarce. we really had to do some digging to check out this video from wisconsin. driving through yesterday, just a couple of inches. that's the theme the past couple of weeks. it's been a mild december. let's talk about snow cover this crick mass, generally speaking, we're at 28% coverage. not even chicago, not massachusetts. this time a month ago we were at 50%. this time of year, closer to 40s. seems like a green or brown christmas. meanwhile, go to the mountains. that's where you'll see most of the snow there. over a foot in spots. chicago, lower michigan, snow piling up today, but i think just a dusting and light stuff. east of the mississippi, a lot of rain. your local forecast in 30 seconds.

at home we have light precipitation expected to hit the bay area later this morning. into the afternoon hours. it will taper off by the evening. it will bring blustery conditions. the highs today are in the upper 50's to lower 60. lows are chilly for christmas morning. we are looking at upper 40's for inland areas. we are at 43 in napa and 50 along the coast on christmas. the seven-day outlook shows cool and dry nor

safe to say that the outdoor malls on the east coast, wet today. one more reason to get in, get out. get your shopping done. and coming up on "gma," bizarre twist on the mystery of the abandoned armored truck found with the engine running. that's why investigators now believe the missing driver could be armed and dangerous. also ahead, an incredible discovery just in time for the holidays as a ground breaking secret about jesus unearthed in ancient ruins. that story coming up on "good morning america." ♪

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it appears most of the damage was confined to a unit on the second floor. at least one first responder needed treatment at the scene. there's no word on the condition of the person who was rescued. let's see how traffic is going on this christmas eve morning. here's leyla gulen. >> traffic is moving along pretty well, everyone. merry christmas eve to you. here's a look at the san mateo bridge. traffic a little thicker than earlier this morning but moving along at top speeds. some of the fog is starting to dissipate just a little bit. we do have an accident in san jose if you're traveling along northbound 101 at guadalupe parkway. watch out for one lane blocked. when we

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good morning. feeling a little more like christmas. we're starting to see some clouds make their way over the bay area. we will find some raindrops hitting parts of the bay area. our highs for today going to be in the upper 50s to lower 60s for much of us. the accuweather seven-day forecast is showing a much drier christmas and

♪ ♪ better watch out ♪ you better not cry ♪ you better not pout i'm telling you why ♪ ♪ cause santa claus is coming to town ♪ michael buble keeping the spirit going. santa claus is coming to town. he's actually right here, right here in times square in morning, stopped by for a little visit before dropping off all of those gifts. >> he has a big day ahead. so do we. who's done shopping? who's wrapped? >> not wrapped. hidden, though. >> that's what those bags are for. a little tissue paper, you're good to go. >> no time like the present. chop, chop. also coming up in this half hour, a remarkable discovery just in time for christmas. a ground breaking new find about

jesus unearthed in ancient ruins. we'll have that story coming up. and move over owen wilson and vince vaughn, the real life wedding crashers. kev eneven making a speech. and wait until you see what happened on the dance floor. i'm anxious for that story. >> that one coming up. thank you. and start out with the armored truck mystery out of texas. the truck was found, driver on the loose, both he and his father have been charged with connection with the crime. mara schiavocampo has the story. this was a big haul. >> reporter: it's hundreds of thousands of dollars. when the driver first turned up missing, police thought he may have been a victim, but now is considered a suspect. his family shocked and reacting to the accusation. missing person turned wanted man. looking for 24-year-old trent michael cook for first degree felony theft of goods valued at more than $200,000. they say he could be armed and

dangerous. cook hasn't been seen since monday, the same day police found the armored truck he was driving abandoned in this vacant lot, after disappearing for 25 minutes. engine still running, everything inside, stolen, no sign of a struggle or forced entry. >> the armored truck was here. >> reporter: at first officials worried that cook may have been harmed. >> the first concern is the welfare of the driver. we're looking into that immediately. >> reporter: but tuesday they issued a warrant for cook's arrest. saying investigators have information that the suspect had discussed how a theft like this would be committed. they say his father was in on it too. he's arrested for tampering with fabricating evidence. we spoke to cook's mother and stepfather tuesday before he was named a suspect and they were convinced of his innocence.

>> none of us believe trent has anything to do with this. >> reporter: now shocked, they are standing by him. >> this is completely out of character for trent. he's, you know, and this is not something that he -- he would do. >> reporter: pleading directly with cook to turn himself in. >> i really want you to just come home and be safe and sound. no matter what happens. >> reporter: as for what was stolen from the truck, police won't say exactly what was inside. just one more part of a mystery that's still unfolding. cook's family also told us he loved his job. and if he was involved, they believe it was against his will. the armored car company has no comment. lara? thank you. and now a remarkable discovery just in time for christmas. archaeologists in israel, excavating these ruins of an ancient synagogue say they believe this is the place where jesus christ taught and preached. lama hasan has more in london. good morning to you, lama.

>> reporter: good morning. yes, just in time for christmas. archaeologists are calling the discovery a miracle. an extraordinary holy site straight from the gospel. given the age of the synagogue, the history and the location in galilee, they believe it was likely jesus was teaching there. this morning in the ancient town of magdala by the sea of galilee, what could be a ground-breaking and historic secret finally unearthed. the catholic organization which owns the site now claiming jesus himself may have preached in this first century synagogue, teaching his devoted disciples, including mary magdalene. after all, this allegedly was her home town. and it is believed that jesus spent three quarters of his life in this area. >> jesus was traveling many times with the boat, with the fishermen. and for sure, i think, he taught in that synagogue. >> reporter: the ancient temple was first discovered in 2009

when crews began excavating the site with plans to build a low hotel. five years and a treasure trove of discoveries later, they say they are convinced jesus taught here. among those historic treasures, a main hall with an elaborate mosaic floor. this limestone block carved with a menorah, the oldest ever found on stone. and jewish ritual baths. some of the artifacts taken to the pope to see. >> we can see jesus seated on the benches of the synagogue, reading the torah. >> reporter: and the work is only just beginning. they have a sprawling 12 acres of the ancient city left to excavate. there may be a treasure-trove of historical art facts and relics discovered at the holy site which they hope will unlock a few secrets and give us a better understanding of the many

passages in the gospels. george, lara? >> very fascinating. thank you so much, lama. and check in with rob and the weather. there is a lot to talk about. there is a lot of rain in the east coast. also a lot of rain in paradise. what's happening across hawaii. this was yesterday. where even currently there are flash flood warnings, or watches posted for not only maui, but honolulu and the big island. this is maui where they had a record 2 inches of rainfall there. and it's going to be a white christmas on the big island above 10,000 feet. matter of fact, blizzard warnings. that is unusual. with winds gusting to 90 miles per hour above 11,000 feet. including the observatory going to be white and windy today. maybe the only state at or below average temperature-wise is texas. 51 in dallas, and drying out behind the storm system across parts of the midwest and the heartland, blue east of the mississippi, wet across the i-95

>> another round light rain this afternoon and we. see conditions cooler than yesterday in the upper 50's to lower 60's and seven-day forecast show cooler christmas and dry conditions into >> this weather report brought to you by sprint. there you have it. if you want a white christmas, head to hawaii. climb the volcanos. >> that's random. and coming up, surprising shopping clues you could be missing. secrets to finding the best prices at your famous stores. and from ugly doggy sweaters to pup photos with santa. inside this season's big trend. why people are all about their pets this christmas. ♪ his christmas. noooo... how much are you spending per month? $110 bucks $120 bucks $330 yeee-ah... what if sprint could cut your rate plan in half? and give you unlimited talk and text in the u.s., and match your data.

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and we're back now at 7:41 with "gma" investigates. the secrets to finding the best prices at your favorite stores. and our cecilia vega has the story. ♪ >> this is a good deal. >> reporter: this is a secret hidden in plain sight. a shopping code cracked for "gma" investigates right there embedded in price tags at some of the nation's most popular retailers. shopping guru kyle james. he's the brains behind ratherbeshopping.com. a website devoted to online coupons. he says there are pricing

patterns at 14 national chains and counting. all to help consumers know when and how to spot a good deal. >> recording. >> reporter: using hidden cameras, "gma" investigates and kyle go bargain hunting, to spot savings in places you never think to look, right on the price tag. first up, home depot, sometimes the secret codes are color-coded. >> clearance product. >> reporter: at many story, james says the key to savings is found in the last two digits of the price. at home depot, prices ending in 06 mean six weeks until the next markdown. 03, three weeks until mark down. the chain's best deal. james turned to his secret code-cracking weapon for confirmation, the store employees. >> it's insider stuff. you're not supposed to know that. >> reporter: this employee agreed to share in silhouette

another store secret from home depot, sometimes the price is adjustable if there's a customer service issue. >> every employee is eligible to up to a $50 adjustment if it's warranted. >> reporter: next up, target. james says prices ending in 98, 88, 04 and 24 indicate clearance items. but to know how much you're really saving, you may need a magnifying glass. >> this number on the right-hand corner. that's the percentage off the original price. >> reporter: 70% off. and the good news is if target has a lot of product inventory, chances are prices will drop more. so what's the rule and how long you should wait? >> employees mark them down every ten to 14 days. >> reporter: one possible reason for such pricing codes? >> a lot of stores do this so it makes it easier for employees when they're stocking shelves, even for management. >> reporter: at costco, on the

hunt for flat screen tvs. james says item ending in 99, full price. 97, it's a mark down. 97 with an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner, jackpot. james says it's a clearance item. >> so ends in 97, and downing. it's an asterisk. >> reporter: i bought this at costco, there was no asterisk. >> i bought this tv. >> reporter: armed with knowledge and your credit card, just a few ways to shop like an insider. for "good morning america," cecilia vega, abc news, phoenix. >> jotting this stuff down. those are really great -- >> we can get you a copy of the piece if you want. >> you can. yes. i'll carry it. no, those are great tips. and coming up, we have even more. it's a must-watch for anybody who may have, and i'm not saying that anybody here has, anybody that's waited a little too long to start christmas shopping. how to pick out the perfect last minute gift from some very convenient places.

and don't leave out the family pet. we'll show you how far some dog owners are going this holiday. are going this holiday. ♪ that's how it goes whenever it snows. ♪ ♪ the world is your snowball just for a song. ♪ ♪ get out and move it along. ♪

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oh, look at that little sweater right there. i can't get daisy to wear a sweater. family pets are not being left out this christmas. turns out we're spending more than ever on these gifts. and brandi hitt shows how far some pet lovers will go.

♪ >> reporter: move over, kids, christmas is going to the dogs. and even the pigs. this holiday season the american pet products association predicts people will shell out more money than ever before on their four-legged and feathered friends. >> feathered thing for the cat and squeaker toys for the dog. >> reporter: with the average shopper expected to spend $30 on pet gifts. up 14% over last year. compare that to $459, the anticipated budget for family, up just 6.5%. >> more and more, they're treating animals like children. >> reporter: just step into this los angeles pet boutique, sales jumped 20% during the holidays. one of the hottest items, eye-catching christmas sweaters. do you really like the sweater? there are pet toys, specialty treats, spa treatments, and for the big spender, high-end canine or kitty couture. jewelry and furniture.

2,000 to $3,000. >> reporter: $3,000 a bed? >> uh-huh. >> reporter: more items for santa to put in his sleigh this year. and santa will narrow whose been naughty or who's been nice. brandi hitt, abc news, los angeles. >> that's cute. >> i have to make a confession. i might have treated my youngest puppy to a new coat. there she is. that's cocoa. that's her new winter jacket. i had to try it on. their memories are short. i'll put it in her stocking. >> my dogs are getting prime rib tomorrow. >> wow. >> carve that roast beast. >> they won't wear clothes. you tried it? >> they won't do it no way. and coming up, superstar wedding crasher, kevin hart, takes over a set. wait until you see what happened next. ee what happened next.

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a revolution in taste with a naturally formed crema on both coffee and espresso. nespresso vertuoline. experience the revolution of coffee. ahead on ahead on "gma," you have seen incredible reunions this week. we have saved the best for last. a mom about to get the christmas surprise of a lifetime.

good morning. i'm eric thomas. it's christmas eve, so what's the weather going to be like? >> it's going to be a little cooler. a cold front is making its way into the bay area causing slight arrival delays, 56 minutes at sfo. high today in the upper 50s, lower 60s. accuweather seven-day forecast, going to be dry tomorrow. let's talk about some traffic and see how empty the toll plaza is here at the bay bridge. so ghosttown, if you will.

we do have one crash in san jose northbound side of highway 85 at 101. be careful there. the rest of the travels under some fog through san jose. eric. >> thank you very much. the news continues now with "good morning america."

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♪ good morning, america. it's 8:00 a.m. and christmas 911. you won't believe how convenient it is to find those last minute gifts. and we brought you epic holiday reunions this week. but this morning get ready for the best one yet. this military family has no idea they're about to get the surprise of their lives. and it's all happening live. ♪ and only here this morning -- >> okay, so i got to -- >> -- what oprah and the director of "selma" are revealing to robin. >> let me give a speech. and kevin hart and josh gad, i love it so much. they crashed in wedding, gave a toast. and wait until you see what they did on the dance floor. and stopping by before he

heads around the world. it's santa live as we say -- >> good morning, america. the christmas eve reading from santa. there he is in times square. he has the hottest gift of the year, his selfie stick. using it to take pictures of everyone out there in the crowd this morning. that was just a quick stop. santa's got a big day ahead. >> and, you know, he has to test out all of the toys. he was just doing a little safety precautions. >> exactly. nicely done, santa. and also the boys of the st. paul's choir sharing the joy of the season with their rendition of jingle bells. talented singers in all grades, all in grades 4 through 8. what incredible voice and more from them this morning. >> santa is here delivering gifts. he's going to let us know. what would the viewers say?

who on this set has been naughtia, and who has been nice? he's here for us. >> santa's here. >> how's the list? >> good morning, santa. >> i like that. >> t.j., lara -- >> i made it. >> we're good. all the other anchors. let's see what we have for you. >> this is the good stuff. >> special for christmas eve, footie pajamas. with hoods and -- >> how did you know t.j. loves those? his size too. >> let's see what we have? >> footie pajamas for george. >> wow, thank you. >> what is that? is that footie pajamas too? >> of course. >> very special. >> all got them. >> very special. >> i just want a kiss, santa. >> oh, no, you get a present. i want you all to wear these on christmas eve. >> santa, thank you. >> beautiful. >> you have a lot to do. good luck. >> you're busy.

>> merry christmas, thank you. thanks, santa. >> he's the best. >> what does he give people on the naughty list if this is the good stuff? >> i think you know, t.j. >> look at this. >> who doesn't want footie pajamas? that's the coziest thing ever. >> that was exciting. >> that was exciting. >> fold it up. >> you want me to throw it on the ground? >> you actually have work to do. >> i do have a little bit of work to do. good morning, george. and we begin this morning with the storms in the deep south that have been turning deadly. at least four people were killed after what may have been a tornado slammed through southeast mississippi. dozens injured and thousands are waking up this morning without power. the severe storm also flipped over cars and even an ambulance. also breaking this morning, former president george h.w. bush, 41, waking up in a houston hospital. the 90-year-old was rushed to the hospital by ambulance last night after experiencing shortness of breath. his spokesperson describing the

overnight stay as a precaution. two years ago he spent nearly two months in the hospital for bronchitis. and breaking overseas, islamic state militants have captured a jordanian pilot who's plane crashed in syria. he's the first coalition pilot captured by isis. the militants say they shot down the jet with heat-seeking missiles. isis saying the safety of the pilot will be decided by the group. and the navy s.e.a.l. who claims to have killed osama bin laden is under investigation. robert o'neill went on national television last month to talk about his role this that raid. the military trying to determine if he revealed classified information. and after more than 30 years, the fda is easing restrictions of blood donations from gay men. it was the fear and paranoia surrounding the early days of the aids crisis. the new policy could start sometime next year. how about a dress that's not

only stylish, but keeps you safe. it's the robotic spider dress. lara, wear this. if someone approaches too quickly or aggressively, the tentacles spring into action and the dress even detects when the wearer is scared. it was created by a dutch artist with a 3-d printer. it can beckon someone closer. the eyes can glow. can it sling weapons spider-man style? >> it's compressive as is. >> weirdly pretty, too. >> it is. >> there's nothing sexy about it. thank you. >> it's hot. okay, "pop news" and weather coming up. t.j. is in the social square. time to look ahead. we have real life wedding crashers. we got real life wedding crashers. this is kevin hart and josh gad. they are invading a reception. you got to see what they do. good speech and a good song. procrastinators, how to pick out a great last minute gift at some very convenient places. you're going to love this.

plus, we have shown you great reunions in the past for the holidays. we have saved the best one for last. all that. and i have to have a discussion with this guy. santa, i want to talk to you about something that happened when i was 7. i still didn't get a gift. >> you might have been naughty. might have been naughty. ♪ that's how it goes whenever it snows. ♪ ♪ the world is your snowball just for a song. ♪ ♪ get out and move it along.

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tamiflu is fda approved to treat the flu in people 2 weeks and older whose flu symptoms started within the last two days. before taking tamiflu tell your doctor if you're pregnant, nursing, have serious health conditions, or take other medicines. if you develop an allergic reaction, a severe rash, or signs of unusual behavior, stop taking tamiflu and call your doctor immediately. children and adolescents in particular may be at an increased risk of seizures, confusion or abnormal behavior. the most common side effects are mild to moderate nausea and vomiting. ask your doctor about tamiflu and attack the flu virus at its source. ♪ it is a big night for a it is a big night for a selfie.

it is a big night for you. >> let's have that one. >> how about that? >> yeah. very nice. >> we're right back. a little hug from santa? little hug. ing into text? dad into mustache dad... and it even helps you find costumes for the party. sorry buddy! wait, i'm not doing that! yeah, you are. do you use that thing a lot? oh yeah, all the time. it's like the magic wand. well in that case, abracadabra. do everything faster and easier, with the new more powerful s-pen only on the galaxy note 4. the next big thing is here. you've been part of this family for as long as i can remember. and you just mean so much to all of us. the holidays wouldn't be the same without your crescent rolls. we got you a little something. we got you jeans. it's about time. pipin' hot pillsbury crescent rolls. make your holidays pop!

hey mom, can i have a hot chocolate? ho ho ho... we'll all have hot cocoa! ma'am, need a strong pot of joe. the all new keurig 2.0. wait for me! there it is. ah! hurry up. you're heavy. are you sure these letters will get to santa?

yes, of course. hold still. almost there. a little bit higher. i can't hold you up much longer. ah! whoa! [ all giggle ] ♪ hi, fellas. hi, virginia. why are you on the floor? [ female announcer ] bring your letter to santa into macy's and we'll donate to the make-a-wish® foundation. together, we'll collect a million reasons to believe. here we go, yeah. >> we are in times square. there he is handing out candy canes to everyone who stopped by. >> because he's organized. >> he's very organized. got it all under control. he's going to make it around the world, don't worry about it. >> yep. we have "pop news" coming. >> kids are looking at that, santa. >> he's got it. the elves are helping. >> he's got it under control. we love the movie "wedding crashers," owen wilson, vince vaughn. we got some new wedding crashers. get them out of the way.

celebrity wedding crashers. kevin hart and josh gad. they have a new movie, "the wedding ringer." they're in west hollywood. you're already being skeptical here? let me get through this here. they were next door at a photo shoot. next door, a wedding, they decide to crash the wedding. they are suited and booted. they were ready for the wedding. the couple were loving this. now kevin made a speech. josh gave them a song. ♪ and shining on yeah ♪ the two of you are gonna make beautiful babies ♪ and then they get the dance party started. i was looking at you there, lara. maybe this is a little bit too convenient. maybe promotion.

>> doesn't hurt. they have a movie coming out about weddings. that was awesome. made their night. looked like a great party. >> not going to forget that. show you some video that's got 3 million views online and still counting. look at this little guy. he's got skills. he better have skills. he's lebron james jr. that's brony, is the name. he's a hit out there. now the backyard sessions paying off. this is another example. kids, coaches, they're gym rats. this kid can't help but be good. his dad tweeted out, proud of you, son. >> wow. >> the great job in houston. won a tournament there. imagine the expectations on that kid? >> he's named him so far. >> big shoes to fill, though. >> george. last thing about you -- i >> hey, guys, merry christmas.

>> i want you to meet ragle. this is the ultimate christmas card star. show you the first picture. cute little guy. now let me show you what the owner has been doing for 20 years. creating holiday cards with his pets. raggle as a donkey. we have him again as a penguin. we have raggle, you'll love this one, as scrooge. and then -- >> you said he's been doing it for 20 years? how old is ragle? >> oh, i love the mouse. >> different pets. >> reporting skills -- >> raggle is ancient. >> he's had other pets. >> i knew that, i just thought it was funny. >> people do that with their pets. you don't go to that extreme. >> not that i would tell you. but you bought your dog a -- what was that, down? >> that's the little fur thing. there she is, there's cocoa. cocoa and raggle should get together. cocoa is not 20. >> do you put the dog in the family christmas card? >> yes, of course. >> do you? >> we did not this year. no. >> all three make it.

>> but you are dogs also getting prime rib. or is it fell lay? >> no, prime rib. >> thank you for a stellar edition. >> you make me nervous. >> you're the best. so is rob marciano, he's outside. let's get a check of the weather. what do you get for christmas? >> i have chauncey abraham lincoln at home. yes, that is his name. that's his name. >> a gift for christmas? >> a stuffed toy. >> what's better than a stuffed toy? prime rib is not a bad call either. it's foggy in d.c. the live shot of the capital. temperatures are going to be warm. it's going to be windy. look at the wind across the northeast. high wind watches and warnings. the strong storms across the south. and the tornado, it's mild. the backside is not all that at home we have light precipitation expected to hit the bay area later this morning.

into the afternoon hours. it will taper off by the evening. it will bring blustery conditions. the highs today are in the upper 50's to lower 60. lows are chilly for christmas morning. we are looking at upper 40's for inland areas. we are at 43 in napa and 50 along the coast on christmas. the seven-day outlook shows cool and dry nor >> it is christmas time for everybody. and at home, your pets are? >> i have five pigs that i show for ffa. >> what are you getting them for christmas? >> i don't know. i got my truck levelled. that's pretty good. >> there you go. >> maybe some bacon and eggs. no, don't do that. george, back to you. thank you, rob. first up on the heat index. help for you who have not finished your christmas list. becky worley takes us to surprising places to find perfect last minute gifts. >> reporter: the holidays are here. ah. oh, no, i forgot to get a present for uncle bob. no worries.

it's not too late. many starbucks, open christmas morning. cups, cards, coffee makers. tea infuser plus chai blend. dude, these are some of oprah's favorite things. how can i go wrong? next, gas station gift baskets? yes, you can. scratch off lottery tickets, tun glass, tropical benches, coconut candy bar, and a cute message. remember the pharmacy chains. many are open on christmas eve, and quite a few are open on christmas. this place is loaded. start with the virtual and the visual. tickets to a hoops game and a ball. internet gift card printed at home and a physical item that represents it. finally, the totally desperate last minute gift for your sweetie, a box of fortune cookie dates. hit the local chinese place, takeout boxes and fortune cookies. print out date ideas in the form of fortunes.

you will have dinner with a beautiful woman. it's okay to exaggerate. wrap the cookies in a paper towel, microwave them, insert the old fortune, insert the new, and fold. it's personal. creativity and personalization, can make any gift meaningful. the last gift idea, called the candy card. a sweet way to show someone you care. for "good morning america," becky worley, abc news, oakland, california. >> i want a candy card. >> you don't want the fortune cookie date? >> that was a good idea. >> after the microwave, making it personal. >> i like the physical -- i like the tickets. you are the best. and next up, we told you about a special military family, the hartmans. they're in the studio. before we talk to them, let's take a look at their story. meet julie hartman, mother to

four boy, including two in service. she has one wish for christmas, to have her band of brothers home together in connecticut. >> especially at the holidays, that's the hardest. >> reporter: dominique and zach are with her. but nicolas and his wife cannot afford the trip from his california base. >> he has been the one that's so family oriented and it's so important for him for all of us to be together and the one person that can't be here, is -- that's tough, right? >> reporter: in fact nicolas hasn't been able to see his brother michael in three years because of deployments. michael forced to miss nicolas' wedding last year. >> for the wedding, we thought he was going to be able to go. >> they changed the date four times. >> it was so perfect at one point where he was going to be deploying to afghanistan, michael, but he was going to be just in time to be nick's best man at the wedding. >> reporter: but michael's deployment date was moved up at the last minute, forcing him to

leave the date of the wedding. michael sending an emotional video toast in his absence. >> the army has seen fit for me to go and do our nation's business. i hope you all do me an honor of raising a glass to the happy couple and give them their best wishes on their special day. >> he surprised me on that one. it was pretty sad. >> reporter: and now right after christmas, michael will be again deployed. this time to germany. >> so by the time that they see each other again, it's going to be seven years. >> reporter: making this christmas apart especially trying. >> during the holidays she calls me a thousand times. she has so much love for us. and us not being there are for the holidays is a heartbreaker for her. >> reporter: like so many military families apart for the holiday, the families stay strong by focusing on the good things. >> watching them walk away is the hardest damn thing you can ever do. but saying hello is probably the sweetest thing that anybody could ever imagine.

>> i'm joined now by julie and her two sons, army specialist michael and zachary. welcome to "good morning america." >> thank you. >> julie, i saw you crying already. it is a difficult time of year for a mom not to be with her whole family. >> it is. it's really hard. i'm so proud of them and honored for what they do. but it is hard. i miss them a lot. but more devastating for michael and zachary and dominick, they're not going to see each other for a very long time. >> they're not going to see each other, but you can hear each other. because we actually have nicholas and his wife victoria on the phone right now. can you here us, nicholas? >> nick? >> hello, mom. >> hi, sweetie. >> can you hear us? >> yes, ma'am, i can hear you. >> terrific. mom, what would you like to say to your son? >> i love you so much. i'm sorry you can't be home. but we're thinking of you and tory. i hope you like the presents i sent you.

>> where did you send them? can you hear us? >> maybe i should just come in. >> come on in. >> what? what? >> i hope you didn't send those presents too far, mom. because here's your other boy. ♪ ♪ this is gonna be the best day of my life ♪ ♪ my life >> oh, my god, thank you. thank you. >> how does that feel to see three of your four boys? and you have another son who is at home in connecticut with dad getting all the last minute prep. so you're going to have all four boys. get over here. >> the first time in so long. >> all of your boys. hi, great to see you, nicolas. great to see you. come on over. get close to mom, everybody. a mom needs her boys. >> oh, you have no idea. i can't believe this. it's been so long.

it's been so long. it's almost, what? four years almost. >> and how is it for you, nicolas, to feel your mom, to feel her love and to be with your other brothers also in the service? >> it's the most amazing thing. >> and i want to ask you, michael. you did a very good job keeping this secret. >> you knew? are you kidding me? are you kidding? >> i got a -- yeah. >> uh-oh. he's not in trouble. >> i can't believe it. it's the best christmas present anyone can ever give me. thank you so much, everyone. >> and we want to tell you, we have been honoring the military and the sacrifices they make. and it is such a hard time to be without your family. and we did need to get some helpers. so, thank you. >> you too. >> thank you. and i'm sorry, but you're -- >> you have such a big mouth. >> your husband and your other son, they're too busy getting

ready. so you're going to be with everybody on this christmas. >> dad's cooking lasagna, you guys. >> merry christmas. >> thank you so much. >> and over to paula. where are you, paula? >> congratulations mom and all her boys. as a mom there's nothing more that you want than to have your family. forget the presents, it's about having everybody together. and next up, a hot new dining trend. chefs turning their own homes into restaurants. offering home cooked meals for anyone who wants to dig in. juju chang has the details. >> reporter: done mayfield is hunting for the best shellfish at san francisco's famous fisherman's wharf. today, only the best will do. in 12 hours eight strangers will show up and they'll be hungry. >> load them up. get out of here. >> reporter: but this isn't a restaurant, and don is not a professional chef. he's among the hundreds of home chefs across the country selling seats at their own dinner tables.

all part of a growing dining trend that's being called the air b&b of food. apps like feastly, cookapp and eatwith connect passionate chefs with adventurous eaters. paying less than restaurant prices. willing to dine with strangers. >> this is not something you learned in a book or at a class. >> i have no professional cooking experience. >> reporter: don's offering a san francisco dinner, clam shoulder, sourdough bread and local dungness crab. and dessert. >> the main course is a half a crab steamed. >> reporter: it's $55 for a gourmet meal and a wine pairing. there are some catches, in many cities home-based restaurants are not eligible for food service permits and run the risk of being shut down. yet the reviews are pouring in. on a scale of one to five?

what would you give it? >> seven. >> reporter: and that seven is tastes even better served with an unexpected side of good company. juju chang, abc news, san francisco. >> cool idea. >> very good idea. >> you have to know how to cook. there's that. >> won't be happening at my house. well, coming up, oprah winfrey and director ava duvernay opening up about their gripping new movie. and a big night for this guy, santa claus. those selfies with santa coming in right now. you may have them under your tree but we have thome live. christmas morning on "gma." robin is taking you way behind the scenes of disney parks "frozen" christmas celebration and later on, join the celebration on abc.

good morning, i'm eric thomas. in san francisco, a holiday tradition got under way this morning. lefty o'doul's is hosting its annual toy drive for the 14th year in a row. several kids got up early to sing christmas carols. police officers and firefighters will deliver gifts to needy children throughout the day. they will be accepting gifts all the way until 11:00 this evening. let's get an update on the christmas eve commute. >> it's pretty light. if you have any last-minute shopping to do, you won't have anything to worry about. the golden gate bridge, still very cloudy out there. we do have one crash, however, in san ramon. southbound side of 680 at crow canyon, watch out for that, possibly one lane blocked but

green conditions at top speeds. when we come back we'll have a lo start a revolution a revolution in coffee quality with the finest nespresso coffee blends. a revolution in technology

with unique centrifusion. a revolution in taste with a naturally formed crema on both coffee and espresso. nespresso vertuoline. experience the revolution of coffee. welcome back. that's a look at lake tahoe. we do have a winter advisory, some snow on the way this evening. we do have closer to home temperatures in the upper 50s to lower 60s. lows for tonight getting a little cooler, just in time for christmas day. in the upper 40s for vallejo, lower 40s for napa. along the coast, 50 degrees at

half moon bay. it's going to be dry tomorrow, dry for the rest of the weekend, temperatures ♪ oh, look at that moment. got to share it one more time. julie hartman being surprised by her sons. all four home, zachary, michael, nicolas and dominick. been apart for so many year, serving their country so well. just love seeing the look on her face. the excitement in her voice. >> she apologized for kroig. no, let the tears flow. envoy every minute of it. that was wonderful to share with them. and santa about to take off. moments away from jumping in his sleigh right after the show ends. he was organized with and be spent time with kids in the "gma" social square. thanks for being with us, santa. >> he is fuelled and ready to go. and one on one with james cordon. what he's saying about his role in "into the woods" and working with meryl streep.

george? >> looking forward to that. right now, we're going to talk about "selma." telling the story of martin luther king jr. it's a powerful film, nominated for four golden globes. it was brought to the screen by oprah winfrey and director ava duvernay. they talked about the experience with robin. >> he's got supporters. ive citing large scale arrests and sympathy marchers. >> i'm very aware of that, mr. hoover. what i do know is, he's nonviolent. what i need to know right now, what's martin luther king about to do next? >> ava duvernay is a director and executive producer of "selma" about the 1965 selma to montgomery marches led by dr. martin luther king jr. for african-american voting rights. >> we will not wait any longer. give us the vote. that's right. no more. we're not asking, we're demanding.

give us the vote. >> give us the vote. >> it's the first feature film to center around dr. king and has already earned four golden globe nominations including one for best director. everyone wants to put the emphasis on the first black woman director to get this nomination. and you are very quick to point to others who paved the way. >> it's bittersweet. lovely for me and my mother is very happy. but certainly, i know i'm not the first black woman deserving this. there have been women of color making beautiful things for a long time. >> it's the first time a film centered around dr. king. but it was a band of brothers. >> it was. it was called "selma," not king for a reason. it was about a community that came together. it speaks so beautifully to this cultural movement that we're in, a people-led movement as opposed to a person-led movement. >> it shines the spotlight on the women of the movement, including coretta scott king and the struggles she faced.

>> how are they going to kill my children? what they'll do to you and how they'll do it. how many years have i had to listen to this? the filth, deranged and twisted. and just ignorant enough to be serious. >> we heard from the women from that era, the wives, the mothers, the sisters. to so delicately address dr. king's infidelity through core etta scott king, through that perspective. >> my approach to the infidelities, or those reports, is to do it in the context of the marriage. what is she thinking? how does he go and face her after this? >> she is joined by fellow producer oprah winfrey who co-stars adds activist annie lee cooper. >> knock it off.

>> oprah, you have worked with many directors. what is it about her that stood out with you? >> i think the thing that ava has is the quality that everybody looks for in their friends. you hope that you can get it in a boss, in other relationships. she is a great validator. because everybody in life is looking to know that they matter. what she is able to do is make every person, regardless of if they're the star, david oyelowo, or whether you're an extra who's never been on a movie set before, feel like you are special. that you are valued. and that your being here really matters to this film. >> okay, now rise behind him. you got to look for him. remember, i told you, i got to tell this funny story. we're out with the extras and doing the scene with the racists. and you're trying to get the people. and they're lovely people. white people who have come, dressed in the period stuff. and a woman comes up to ava, now, do you want me to say the

n-word or do you want me to say the actual word? >> i said, no, ma'am, i want you to say the n-word. >> so when she comes at me, do i say n-word, or do i just say the real word? >> no, ma'am, the real n-word. >> oh, you want me to say the word. >> the real word. you need to do it. >> yes. >> but they weren't comfortable because that's not where they were at that time. and it was just important to make them understand we need you to do this to tell the story. >> we are three in essence southern women. i was born in tuskegee alabama, raised in mississippi, you mississippi root, teenageer in alabama. did you bring that perspective to it also? the fact that your father was raised in alabama? >> the man i love the most in the world, who made me who i am is from that place. i felt like that was my entry point. i know alabama. >> i heard you say that your hope is this will help in the conversation that we're having as a nation about race. >> yes. it is just jaw-dropping it's

coming out in this time. and a time that's just so robust with this energy of change. it's nothing we could have predicted, or even asked for. yet there's a beauty to it, a symmetry to it. i hope this film adds to the energy. and the conversation. >> join us, join our march against injustice and inhumanity. we need you to stand with us. >> "selma" opens in select cities tomorrow, everywhere january 9th. now let's go to rob for a final check of the weather. it is christmas time in the city. and the kids are ready tore santa. sidney, you are from? >> juneau, alaska. >> it gets cold up there, doesn't it? >> it's in the 20s right now. >> been to the north pole? >> yes, i have. i saw santa in the north pole. >> street credit. 7 degrees. look at the graphics that the "gma" weather department put together.

chris marks florida, 68 degree, santa, idaho, 32. here comes the santa train. mostly snow in the mountains, and rain exiting the northeast >> another round light rain this afternoon and we. see conditions cooler than yesterday in the upper 50's to lower 60's and seven-day forecast show cooler christmas and dry conditions into the >> this weather report brought to but by massage envy spa. the least snow -- the least snowiest christmas in chicago in over 20 years. not snowing here. is that disappointing? >> yes -- >> no. >> look at the artwork, george. lara, back to you. and we have been celebrating macy's believe campaign. for every letter dropped off at a mailbox, they donate a dollar. to the make a wish foundation, helping to help kids with life threatening conditions.

well, today is it. it's our christmas eve grand finale. but first a look back at what we have accomplished. hard to believe, it's been nearly 2 months since we kicked off the believe campaign right here in times square. during that time, we have watched kids write letters. >> dear santa -- >> reporter: and big brothers express some extremely tough wishes. >> this christmas i wish that my sister gets all better. i wish that because she is sick. >> we witnessed this breaking of a world record for the longest wish list. >> macy's has set a new guinness world records record for the longest wish list to santa claus. and the journey of gadget. the macy's elf stopped by with his wish list on his way to the north pole, which he reached just this week. above all, we saw wishes fulfilled. thanks to all of those letters dropped off in macy's boxes. and submitted online. every letter counting for a dollar towards make-a-wish. we watched as the funding

financed a flute for elizabeth. and the meeting of a lifetime for alfredo with wwe superstar john cena. >> the champ is officially here. >> reporter: to all of you who contributed time, well wishes and letters, we say thank you. and elizabeth and alfredo say thank you too. >> thank you, make-a-wish, macy's. >> thank you to make-a-wish and thank you to "gma" and macy's. thank you. thank you. >> thank you. such adorable children. and we are joined by the chief marketing officer of macy's and david williams, president and ceo of make-a-wish. and it is the big moment. let's show everybody how much was raised. >> i'm so happy to. help me. >> let's do it. >> so happy to say that macy's has raised $2 million for the make-a-wish foundation. >> $2 million. what does that mean for the

children of make-a-wish? >> well, it certainly means that we are going to be able to help hundreds of more children this year in terms of receiving their wishes. but the thing that i think is amazing is to think about the number of children who wrote these letters in -- in a way to be able to help other kids. and i think we've created millions of little philanthropists out there that are doing something for kids that are having serious illnesses. >> yeah. because remember for every letter, it's a dollar donated. that is a lot of letters that were written. and i think they understand this is life-changing for the children living with life-threatening diseases. what does it mean to be a part of the believe campaign? >> this is our seventh year of doing this. and each year, we can't help but think we have to do more. so this year, we have given $2 million because on national believe day we raised 500,000 letters in one day and doubled

the donation. you and i were together that morning. that makes us so happy. it's our customers and employees that make this program so incredibly wonderful. and it helps us to grant so many more wishes. and we granted the longest wish and sent gadget to the north pole with the longest wish. we just had so much fun. our customers and employees did. the make-a-wish foundation. >> we did. >> thank you. >> and looking forward to hearing about the wishes you make come true. thank you to everybody at macy's. and coming up, we have a very special interview. don't go anywhere. ♪

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fairy tale musical "into the woods" opens on christmas day. it's already been nominated for three golden globe, including best picture. amy spoke with the british actor, james cordon, who is the baker, longing to have a child. >> you've got the cape. >> what have you done with the cow? >> she ran away. never reached home, i have been looking for her all night. >> how could you? >> she might have run away from you. >> but she didn't. >> but she might have done. >> but she didn't. >> who cares? cow's gone. get it back. >> james cordon joins us now. had to be so much fun to film. >> yeah, the whole thing was great to be part of. to be in a cast like that in a film directed by rob marshall, you know.

it's a little too much for my tiny brain to take in sometimes. it really is. >> you were fantastic as the baker. and he really does stand out as the fairy tale characters "into the woods." what about him makes him so unique and likable? >> essentially the film incorporates all of the brother's grimm fairy tails. and in the center is my character and emily blunt's character. who essentially are representing the audience in the movie. >> intimidating to play opposite meryl streep? >> of course, yeah. i mean, how could it not be? you're always aware of the fact that -- at least the first day, when she comes in. you're going, oh, it's meryl streep. but you're trying to be very, very cool. like i am now. like i'm really pretending this is the most ordinary thing in the world to be on "good morning america" with you on these chairs. i'm styling out, but inside, oh,

my god, i'm on "good morning america." it's a very similar feeling. just put a rug here. this is weird rug placement. just isn't it? in a sense of surrounding the rug with nothing. >> a little bit of home here. >> it's almost -- i feel like we're refugees fleeing the country and these are the last chairs we could ever find to be here. i mean, there's really nothing else here. it's an amazing feat of design. >> i'm getting why you're getting a few jobs we're going to list here. you're going to be on the late, late show on cbs. you do broadway, films, television. what is your dream job? >> i'm a jack of all trades and a master of none. my dream job? like sleeping. probably. that's like -- >> you have a 5-week-old at home and a 3-year-old. >> yeah. my dream job i guess would be -- i can really do nothing for a long time.

i'm talking lying on a sofa staring at the corner of a coffee table. i could lose three hours. three hours. >> jour dream job? >> there's no man on the planet who feels -- literally, just zoning out. >> thank you for keeping things fun and loving here. >> how could you not in the palatial environment. >> on our island, on our magic carpet. thank you for joining us. >> it was a pleasure. >> what a funny guy. that was great. "into the woods" opens tomorrow on christmas day. and coming up, the boys of the st. paul's choir. ♪ dashing through the snow in a one hors

now get you into the spirit of the holidays, the boys of st. paul's choir school. their debut album, christmas at harvard square is available on itunes. but first you can enjoy them right here. ♪

♪ angels we have heard on high ♪ singing sweetly through the night ♪ ♪ and the mountains in reply ♪ echoing their great delight ♪ gloria ♪ in excelsis deo ♪ gloria ♪ in excelsis deo ♪ still, still, still let all the walls be still ♪ ♪ our many lights have gone to rest ♪

♪ sings to him softly heart abreast ♪ ♪ still, still, still ♪ let all the world be still ♪ joy, joy, joy ♪ my heart is filled with joy ♪ the god of love ♪ make it all and let it go on ♪ ♪ joy, joy, joy ♪ my heart is filled with joy ♪ oh christmas tree ♪ oh christmas tree ♪ thy boughs with brightness shining ♪ ♪ oh christmas tree ♪ oh christmas tree

♪ on christmas day will pining ♪ these summer sun and winter's night ♪ ♪ there is a gleam so pure on sight ♪ ♪ oh christmas tree ♪ oh christmas tree ♪ thy boughs with bright and shining ♪ ♪ take the bells tonight and sing a sleighing song ♪ ♪ too faulty for his feet ♪ and he jumped over and took the lead ♪ ♪ jingle bells jingle bells jingle all the way ♪ ♪ oh what fun it is too ride in

a one horse open sleigh ♪ ♪ jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way ♪ ♪ oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh ♪ ♪ we wish you a merry christmas ♪ we wish you a merry christmas ♪ ♪ we wish you a merry christmas and a happy new year ♪ ♪ it's the time of year for making lists... at chevrolet, we've made it onto a few lists ourselves. in fact this year, we've been at the top of more awards lists than any other car company. now during the chevy year end event, put us on yours.

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♪ ♪ oh, there's santa and his selfies out there in times square. we had a lot of fun with him this morning. but his work is just beginning today. >> do we have a live picture? one more shot of santa? there's us. there he is. good luck, santa. he's going to his sleigh. parked in an undisclosed location. merry christmas, everybody. >> merry christmas.

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good morning, i'm eric thomas. first up this christmas eve forecast with leyla gulen. >> merry christmas eve, everyone. 2 to 5 degrees cooler than it is yesterday and the last couple of days. highs for today in the upper 50s to lower 60s. my accuweather seven-day forecast showing that it's going to be a little bit drier tomorrow. not before we get a sprinkling of rain in the bay area today. it looks like saturday and sunday will be mild. tuesday a little cooler. let's look at traffic and see what's happening on the roads. it has been not too active. snl, 101 at 880, pretty empty as you make it up to the san jose airport. we do have one accident blocking center lanes along south 880 at

coleman avenue causing some delays. eric. >> thank you very much. ti ♪ announcer: don't adjust your tv set. snuggle up and get ready. it's time for " "live! with kelly & michael"'s cozy classic christmas special." today, dwayne johnson drops by for a christmas karaoke. and from disney on ice, our studio transforms into a winter wonderland. and caroline rhea discovers the true meaning of christmas through the eyes of adorable kids. and legendary band, earth, wind and fire rock the house with holiday songs inspired