Korea retaliate . What can they do . And gma is home for the holidays. We have seen the incredible reunions this week. Now weve saved best for last. This mom about to get the christmas surprise of a lifetime as gma says ho ho ho its 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, were 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 didnt have time to seek shelter. Wow. Reporter a series of tornados slashing into mississippis 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 thats 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. Heres 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. Well talk about whos 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 bronchitisrelated 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. Hes been confined to a wheelchair in the last two years but thats 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 president ial 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 jongun wanted, but the spoof will appear tomorrow, after all. Its 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 11style attack on the theaters dont seem to be keeping anyone away. I have very little concern about an attack, but i also think that were not going to be stupid about it. Reporter the movies 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. Lets 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 wouldnt be saying this should be run if he thought the threat was credible. Theres 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, weve 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 wakeup 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 abcs david wright has the story. Reporter overnight antipolice protesters took to the streets despite pleas from new yorks mayor bill de blasio to hold off until the two officers could be laid to rest. Hes under fire himself for criticizing Police Tactics in the past. Hours earlier, he made it clear hes 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 mayors message of unity accompanied by a citywide 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 18yearold 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 countrys 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, its on a roll. The dow closed above 18,000 for the first time ever. Its gained almost a thousand points in just five days. And an amazing rescue overnight in Northern California to show you after a couples 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 lavas 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, doesnt 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 13yearold 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 threepointer. She didnt 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 thats definitely something to cheer about. How about that . Four pretty good shots in 30 seconds. Pretty good . Made a Half Court Shot . Thats all she got was pizza . Oh, come on. Ebenezer scrooge. I thought you were going to say a College Scholarship im 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 macys and kohls 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 sameday 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 shouldnt expect to get your pick of the litter, especially when it comes to the seasons hottest toys. This year there are a few toys that are especially popular. Theres a toy called puppy surprise. Its a retro toy. Reporter some parents so desperate to get their hands on the widely sold out frozen ice palace play set, theyre 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. Im glad they reminded us. Today is not the day to browse. Its go time, people. Go. Elbow pads. Isnt that every day for you . Whos 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. Thats the theme the past couple of weeks. Its been a mild december. Lets talk about snow cover this crick mass, generally speaking, were 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. Thats where youll 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 50s to lower 60. Lows are chilly for christmas morning. We are looking at upper 40s for inland areas. We are at 43 in napa and 50 along the coast on christmas. The sevenday 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. Thats 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. Your morning could use a hand. Taco bells steak and egg a. M. Crunchwrap with a hash brown inside. A whole breakfast in one hand. At Famous Footwear were not just selling the hottest shoes of the Holiday Season. Were selling here comes your future daughterinlaw confidence this year give exclusive Carlos Santana boots. Only from Famous Footwear. Victory is yours. Mom . Dad . Big uncle wayne . Nut. Hot chocolate. Green tea. Uh, decaf, cuz. Wow. Im dying for an herbal tea. The all new keurig 2. 0. Than ordinary Jewelry Stores. Jewelry more is good. I want to find her something special. But our jewelry is so much more than just. More. We have unique jewelry you wont find anywhere else. Like our Hearts Desire collection, crafted only with ideal cut diamonds. This is totally her. But wait. Theres more. Awwww. We call it the awww moment. And thats why he went to jared. The galleria of jewelry. But the fire is so delightful [ male announcer ] nothing melts away the cold like a hot delicious bowl of chicken noodle soup from campbells. Let it snow, let it snow good morning, im eric thomas. In the news, developing in Sonoma County at least one person went to the hospital after a fire in an apartment complex in ronard park. It broke out just after midnight. Witnesses say firefighters rescued one person from the burning building. 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. Theres no word on the condition of the person who was rescued. Lets see how traffic is going on this Christmas Eve morning. Heres leyla gulen. Traffic is moving along pretty well, everyone. Merry Christmas Eve to you. Heres 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 youre traveling along northbound 101 at guadalupe parkway. Watch out for one lane blocked. When we female announcer during sleep trains hugeom foyear end Clearance Sale,s get beautyrest, posturepedic, even tempurpedic mattress sets at low clearance prices. Save even more on floor samples, demonstrators, and closeout inventory. Plus, free sameday delivery, setup, and removal of your old set. Why wait for the new models . Sleep trains year end Clearance Sale is on now . Guaranteed your ticket to a better nights sleep good morning. Feeling a little more like christmas. Were 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 sevenday forecast is showing a much drier christmas and better watch out you better not cry you better not pout im telling you why cause santa claus is coming to town Michael Buble keeping the spirit going. Santa claus is coming to town. Hes 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. Whos done shopping . Whos wrapped . Not wrapped. Hidden, though. Thats what those bags are for. A little tissue paper, youre 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. Well 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. Im 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 its 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 24yearold 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 hasnt 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. Were looking into that immediately. Reporter but tuesday they issued a warrant for cooks 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. Hes arrested for tampering with fabricating evidence. We spoke to cooks 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. Hes, 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 wont say exactly what was inside. Just one more part of a mystery thats still unfolding. Cooks 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 groundbreaking 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 treasuretrove 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. Whats 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 its 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 temperaturewise 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 i95 another round light rain this afternoon and we. See conditions cooler than yesterday in the upper 50s to lower 60s and sevenday 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. Thats 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 seasons 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 yeeeah. 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. Goodbye verizon. I am done with at t. Bring in your verizon or at t bill, turn in your old phone, and well cut your rate plan in half. Visit us online or visit a sprint store today. together its got grains, which i like. I like the little bunches of oats. What i like is actually the flakes. Its got crunch, which i love. Mmm. Its really good. Honey bunches of oats. Yay people with type 2 diabetes come from all walks of life. If you have high blood sugar, ask your doctor about farxiga. Its a different kind of medicine that works by removing some sugar from your body. Along with diet and exercise, farxiga helps lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. With one pill a day, farxiga helps lower your a1c. And, although its not a weightloss or bloodpressure drug, farxiga may help you lose weight and may even lower Blood Pressure when used with certain diabetes medicines. Do not take if allergic to farxiga or its ingredients. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include rash, swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you have any of these symptoms, stop taking farxiga and seek medical help right away. Do not take farxiga if you have severe kidney problems, are on dialysis or have bladder cancer. Tell your doctor right away if you have blood or red color in your urine or pain while you urinate. Farxiga can cause serious side effects, including dehydration, genital yeast infections in women and men, low blood sugar, kidney problems, and increased bad cholesterol. Common side effects include urinary tract infections, changes in urination, and runny nose. Do the walk of life yeah,you do the walk of life need to lower your blood sugar . Ask your doctor about farxiga. And visit our website to learn how you may be able to get every month free. And were 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 nations most popular retailers. Shopping guru kyle james. Hes 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 colorcoded. 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 chains best deal. James turned to his secret codecracking weapon for confirmation, the store employees. Its insider stuff. Youre 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 theres a Customer Service issue. Every employee is eligible to up to a 50 adjustment if its warranted. Reporter next up, target. James says prices ending in 98, 88, 04 and 24 indicate clearance items. But to know how much youre really saving, you may need a magnifying glass. This number on the righthand corner. Thats 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 whats 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 theyre stocking shelves, even for management. Reporter at costco, on the hunt for flat screen tvs. James says item ending in 99, full price. 97, its a mark down. 97 with an asterisk in the upper righthand corner, jackpot. James says its a clearance item. So ends in 97, and downing. Its 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. Ill carry it. No, those are great tips. And coming up, we have even more. Its a mustwatch for anybody who may have, and im not saying that anybody here has, anybody thats waited a little too long to start christmas shopping. How to pick out the perfect last minute gift from some very convenient places. And dont leave out the family pet. Well show you how far some dog owners are going this holiday. Are going this holiday. Thats how it goes whenever it snows. The world is your snowball just for a song. Get out and move it along. Give a journey. Give a new perspective. Give a little joy. A book is a gift like no other. And barnes noble is like no other book store in the world. With so many books to discover and the new nook by samsung now a full featured tablet. A book is the gift theyll remember long after the holidays are over. Oh, look at that little sweater right there. I cant get daisy to wear a sweater. Family pets are not being left out this christmas. Turns out were 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 fourlegged 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, theyre treating animals like children. Reporter just step into this los angeles pet boutique, sales jumped 20 during the holidays. One of the hottest items, eyecatching christmas sweaters. Do you really like the sweater . There are pet toys, specialty treats, spa treatments, and for the big spender, highend canine or kitty couture. Jewelry and furniture. 2,000 to 3,000. Reporter 3,000 a bed . Uhhuh. Reporter more items for santa to put in his sleigh this year. And santa will narrow whose been naughty or whos been nice. Brandi hitt, abc news, los angeles. Thats cute. I have to make a confession. I might have treated my youngest puppy to a new coat. There she is. Thats cocoa. Thats her new winter jacket. I had to try it on. Their memories are short. Ill put it in her stocking. My dogs are getting prime rib tomorrow. Wow. Carve that roast beast. They wont wear clothes. You tried it . They wont 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. Thanks for protecting us from trash cans chair legs, and helping us appreciate your enthusiasm. This Holiday Season, give thanks to the pets who inspire you. At petsmart, save up to 25 on select aquarium kits from aqueon® and marineland. Petsmart®. Its the curly hair you tried to fight it. Hide it. Change it. Not anymore. Professional strength frizz ease. Our powerful spray gives you smooth, frizzfree curls that are ready for anything. Frizz ease. Only from john frieda. And quit a lot,ot but ended up nowhere. Now. I use this. The nicoderm cq patch with unique extended release Technology Helps prevent the urge to smoke all day. I want this time to be my last time. Thats why i choose nicoderm cq. Were not just selling the at famohottestwear, shoes of the Holiday Season. Were selling straight up im going to kiss sara marcus under the mistletoe confidence. This year give them converse from Famous Footwear. Victory is yours. If she could, shed rescue every dog on the planet. And, by some miracle. She actually said yes. To me. Tell her everything you love about her with charmed memories from kay jewelers. Hundreds of charms, handcrafted in italy, with collections like open hearts and new, disney frozen. At kay, the numberone Jewelry Store in america. And she will be the best mom. Ever. Every kiss begins with kay 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. 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. Im eric thomas. Its Christmas Eve, so whats the weather going to be like . Its 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 sevenday forecast, going to be dry tomorrow. Lets 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. Female announcer even tempurpedic mattress sets at low clearance prices. Save even more on floor samples, demonstrators, and closeout inventory. The year end Clearance Sale is on now at sleep train. Your ticket to a better nights sleep good morning, america. Its 8 00 a. M. And christmas 911. You wont 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 theyre about to get the surprise of their lives. And its 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. Its 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. Santas 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. Pauls 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. Hes going to let us know. What would the viewers say . Who on this set has been naughtia, and who has been nice . Hes here for us. Santas here. Hows the list . Good morning, santa. I like that. T. J. , lara i made it. Were good. All the other anchors. Lets 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. Lets 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. Youre busy. Merry christmas, thank you. Thanks, santa. Hes 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 doesnt want footie pajamas . Thats 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 90yearold 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 whos plane crashed in syria. Hes the First Coalition pilot captured by isis. The militants say they shot down the jet with heatseeking 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 oneill 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 thats not only stylish, but keeps you safe. Its 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 3d printer. It can beckon someone closer. The eyes can glow. Can it sling weapons spiderman style . Its compressive as is. Weirdly pretty, too. It is. Theres nothing sexy about it. Thank you. Its 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. Youre 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 didnt get a gift. You might have been naughty. Might have been naughty. Thats how it goes whenever it snows. The world is your snowball just for a song. Get out and move it along. Is a really big deal. U with aches, fever and chills theres no such thing as a little flu. So why treat it like its a little cold . Theres something that works differently than overthecounter remedies. Attack the flu virus at its source with prescription tamiflu. And call your doctor right away. 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 youre 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. Lets have that one. How about that . Yeah. Very nice. Were 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, im not doing that yeah, you are. Do you use that thing a lot . Oh yeah, all the time. Its like the magic wand. Well in that case, abracadabra. Do everything faster and easier, with the new more powerful spen only on the galaxy note 4. The next big thing is here. Youve been part of this family for as long as i can remember. And you just mean so much to all of us. The holidays wouldnt be the same without your crescent rolls. We got you a little something. We got you jeans. Its about time. Pipin hot pillsbury crescent rolls. Make your holidays pop hey mom, can i have a hot chocolate . Ho ho ho. Well all have hot cocoa maam, need a strong pot of joe. The all new keurig 2. 0. Wait for me there it is. Ah hurry up. Youre heavy. Are you sure these letters will get to santa . Yes, of course. Hold still. Almost there. A little bit higher. I cant 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 macys and well donate to the makeawish® foundation. Together, well 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 hes organized. Hes very organized. Got it all under control. Hes going to make it around the world, dont worry about it. Yep. We have pop news coming. Kids are looking at that, santa. Hes got it. The elves are helping. Hes 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. Theyre in west hollywood. Youre 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. Doesnt 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 thats got 3 million views online and still counting. Look at this little guy. Hes got skills. He better have skills. Hes lebron james jr. Thats brony, is the name. Hes a hit out there. Now the backyard sessions paying off. This is another example. Kids, coaches, theyre gym rats. This kid cant 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 . Hes 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, youll love this one, as scrooge. And then you said hes been doing it for 20 years . How old is ragle . Oh, i love the mouse. Different pets. Reporting skills raggle is ancient. Hes had other pets. I knew that, i just thought it was funny. People do that with their pets. You dont go to that extreme. Not that i would tell you. But you bought your dog a what was that, down . Thats the little fur thing. There she is, theres 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. Youre the best. So is rob marciano, hes outside. Lets get a check of the weather. What do you get for christmas . I have chauncey Abraham Lincoln at home. Yes, that is his name. Thats his name. A gift for christmas . A stuffed toy. Whats better than a stuffed toy . Prime rib is not a bad call either. Its foggy in d. C. The live shot of the capital. Temperatures are going to be warm. Its 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, its 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 50s to lower 60. Lows are chilly for christmas morning. We are looking at upper 40s for inland areas. We are at 43 in napa and 50 along the coast on christmas. The sevenday 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 dont know. I got my truck levelled. Thats pretty good. There you go. Maybe some bacon and eggs. No, dont 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. Its not too late. Many starbucks, open christmas morning. Cups, cards, coffee makers. Tea infuser plus chai blend. Dude, these are some of oprahs 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. Its okay to exaggerate. Wrap the cookies in a paper towel, microwave them, insert the old fortune, insert the new, and fold. Its 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 dont 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. Theyre in the studio. Before we talk to them, lets 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, thats 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 thats so family oriented and its so important for him for all of us to be together and the one person that cant be here, is thats tough, right . Reporter in fact nicolas hasnt 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 nicks best man at the wedding. Reporter but michaels 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 nations 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, its 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. Im 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. Its really hard. Im 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, theyre not going to see each other for a very long time. Theyre 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, maam, i can hear you. Terrific. Mom, what would you like to say to your son . I love you so much. Im sorry you cant be home. But were 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 didnt send those presents too far, mom. Because heres 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 youre 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 cant believe this. Its been so long. Its been so long. Its 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 . Its 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. Uhoh. Hes not in trouble. I cant believe it. Its 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 im sorry, but youre you have such a big mouth. Your husband and your other son, theyre too busy getting ready. So youre going to be with everybody on this christmas. Dads 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 theres nothing more that you want than to have your family. Forget the presents, its 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 Franciscos famous fishermans wharf. Today, only the best will do. In 12 hours eight strangers will show up and theyll be hungry. Load them up. Get out of here. Reporter but this isnt a restaurant, and don is not a professional chef. Hes among the hundreds of home chefs across the country selling seats at their own dinner tables. All part of a growing dining trend thats 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 dons 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 its 55 for a gourmet meal and a wine pairing. There are some catches, in many cities homebased 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. Theres that. Wont 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, im eric thomas. In San Francisco, a holiday tradition got under way this morning. Lefty odouls 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. Lets get an update on the Christmas Eve commute. Its pretty light. If you have any lastminute shopping to do, you wont 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 well 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. Thats 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. Its 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 hes saying about his role in into the woods and working with meryl streep. George . Looking forward to that. Right now, were going to talk about selma. Telling the story of Martin Luther king jr. Its 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. Hes got supporters. Ive citing large scale arrests and sympathy marchers. Im very aware of that, mr. Hoover. What i do know is, hes nonviolent. What i need to know right now, whats 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 africanamerican voting rights. We will not wait any longer. Give us the vote. Thats right. No more. Were not asking, were demanding. Give us the vote. Give us the vote. Its 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. Its bittersweet. Lovely for me and my mother is very happy. But certainly, i know im not the first black woman deserving this. There have been women of color making beautiful things for a long time. Its 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 were in, a peopleled movement as opposed to a personled 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 theyll do to you and how theyll 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. Kings 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 costars 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 theyre the star, david oyelowo, or whether youre an extra whos 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. Were out with the extras and doing the scene with the racists. And youre trying to get the people. And theyre 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 nword or do you want me to say the actual word . I said, no, maam, i want you to say the nword. So when she comes at me, do i say nword, or do i just say the real word . No, maam, the real nword. Oh, you want me to say the word. The real word. You need to do it. Yes. But they werent comfortable because thats 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 were having as a nation about race. Yes. It is just jawdropping its coming out in this time. And a time thats just so robust with this energy of change. Its nothing we could have predicted, or even asked for. Yet theres 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 lets 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, doesnt it . Its 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 50s to lower 60s and sevenday 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 macys 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. Its our Christmas Eve grand finale. But first a look back at what we have accomplished. Hard to believe, its 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. Macys has set a new Guinness World records record for the longest wish list to santa claus. And the journey of gadget. The macys 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 macys boxes. And submitted online. Every letter counting for a dollar towards makeawish. 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, makeawish, macys. Thank you to makeawish and thank you to gma and macys. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Such adorable children. And we are joined by the chief marketing officer of macys and david williams, president and ceo of makeawish. And it is the big moment. Lets show everybody how much was raised. Im so happy to. Help me. Lets do it. So happy to say that macys has raised 2 million for the makeawish foundation. 2 million. What does that mean for the children of makeawish . 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 weve created millions of little philanthropists out there that are doing something for kids that are having serious illnesses. Yeah. Because remember for every letter, its a dollar donated. That is a lot of letters that were written. And i think they understand this is lifechanging for the children living with lifethreatening 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 cant 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. Its 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 makeawish foundation. We did. Thank you. And looking forward to hearing about the wishes you make come true. Thank you to everybody at macys. And coming up, we have a very special interview. Dont go anywhere. Which means its timeson for the volkswagen signthendrive event. For practically just your signature, you could drive home for the holidays in a germanengineered volkswagen. Like the sporty, advanced new jetta. And the 2015 motor trend car of the year allnew golf. If youre wishing for a new volkswagen this season. Just about all you need is a finely tuned. Pen. Get zero due at signing, zero down, zero deposit, and zero first months payment on select new volkswagen models. Fairy tale musical into the woods opens on Christmas Day. Its 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. Youve 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 didnt. But she might have done. But she didnt. Who cares . Cows 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. Its 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 brothers grimm fairy tails. And in the center is my character and emily blunts 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 . Youre always aware of the fact that at least the first day, when she comes in. Youre going, oh, its meryl streep. But youre trying to be very, very cool. Like i am now. Like im really pretending this is the most ordinary thing in the world to be on Good Morning America with you on these chairs. Im styling out, but inside, oh, my god, im on Good Morning America. Its a very similar feeling. Just put a rug here. This is weird rug placement. Just isnt it . In a sense of surrounding the rug with nothing. A little bit of home here. Its almost i feel like were refugees fleeing the country and these are the last chairs we could ever find to be here. I mean, theres really nothing else here. Its an amazing feat of design. Im getting why youre getting a few jobs were going to list here. Youre going to be on the late, late show on cbs. You do broadway, films, television. What is your dream job . Im a jack of all trades and a master of none. My dream job . Like sleeping. Probably. Thats like you have a 5weekold at home and a 3yearold. Yeah. My dream job i guess would be i can really do nothing for a long time. Im talking lying on a sofa staring at the corner of a coffee table. I could lose three hours. Three hours. Jour dream job . Theres 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. Pauls choir. Dashing through the snow in a one hors now get you into the spirit of the holidays, the boys of st. Pauls 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 winters 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 its the time of year for making lists. At chevrolet, weve made it onto a few lists ourselves. In fact this year, weve been at the top of more awards lists than any other car company. Now during the chevy year end event, put us on yours. Choose an impala in stock the longest and get cash back for 20 percent of the msrp. Thats over sixtyfive hundred dollars on this impala lt. Find new roads at your local chevy dealer. Oh, theres 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 . Theres us. There he is. Good luck, santa. Hes going to his sleigh. Parked in an undisclosed location. Merry christmas, everybody. Merry christmas. Female announcer even tempurpedic mattress sets at low clearance prices. Save even more on floor samples, demonstrators, and closeout inventory. The year end Clearance Sale is on now at sleep train. Your ticket to a better nights sleep 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. Good morning, im 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 sevenday forecast showing that its 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. Lets look at traffic and see whats 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 dont adjust your tv set. Snuggle up and get ready. Its time for live with Kelly Michaels 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