The Christmas Edition (2020) - full transcript

♪ [festive]

♪ Read it in the paper
that Santa is coming ♪

♪ So open up your heart
and let the love in ♪

♪ Christmas is on its way ♪

♪ Spread the word

♪ The holidays are coming ♪

♪ Spread the word

♪ Gonna hit the ground
running ♪

♪ Spread the word

♪ Christmas is coming soon ♪

♪ Spread the word
Get the men screaming ♪



♪ Spread the word
Come on, let's hear it ♪

♪ Spread the word
Christmas is coming soon ♪

Are you gonna pay for that,

or do I have to put you
on the naughty list?

How about my usual?

Okay.

Did you have a good
Thanksgiving?

It was busy.
I had a nice dinner with my dad,

covered the Turkey Trot Marathon

and covered
the bus driver strike.

Always on the go, nonstop.

You are a chip
off the old block.

Well, it's the only way
I'm gonna make editor one day.

How about editor-in-chief?



Even better.

- Promise me one thing.
- What?

Will you take some time off
for Christmas?

My dad's going on a cruise
with some friends,

so I was thinking of covering
this year's consumer trends.

- If you say so.
- Mm-hmm.

You know, with all this
Christmas stuff around,

you kinda look like, uh...

Don't say it.

[chuckles]

Bye.

- So?
- So?

The guy I was telling you about,
my cousin's roommate's brother,

he was supposed to call you
on Thanksgiving.

- He did.
- And?

And I'll tell you
the same thing I told him.

I don't have time
to start dating again.

You know, you have to have more
going on in your life

than just reporting
other people's news.

Ever since you and Luke
broke up,

this promotion is
all you ever think about.

Who's Florence talking to?

I don't know,
but I wouldn't worry about it.

Everybody knows
that you're a shoo-in

for news editor position.

That's Melanie Dower.

- Uh...
- CEO of Dower Media?

One of the biggest digital media
conglomerates of the west coast.

What would someone like that
want with our paper?

Can you imagine
if she bought the Chronicle?

Think of all the stories
we could report on.

I'm talking Pulitzer categories.

Aren't all her papers digital,
though?

Yeah, but
it's a whole new world.

At least this way,
we won't go under anytime soon.

Jackie, Kat, conference room,
10 minutes!

Here it comes.

As most of you are aware,

there's been a steady decline
in our paper's circulation.

Fact is,
in this day and age,

people would rather
watch their news on a screen,

which is why I just made a deal
with Melanie Dower

for our very own
Sunshine Chronicle

to join her Dower Media
digital news empire.

Thank you.
Thanks to your hard work,

this paper-- your paper--

has become a trusted name
in news,

and will now continue
for many years

under our Dower Media umbrella.

Um, hi.

Sorry. Jackie Evans.

What does this mean in terms of
the current news editor opening?

Inevitably, there will need
to be some changes made,

but over the next few days,

I'll be meeting with
each and every one of you

to find where you best fit.

[applause]

You mean if we fit.

Uh, Florence, wait.

Don't worry.
I told Melanie

that you are my top choice
for news editor.

That's, uh...
That's not what I was--

Okay, yeah.
That's what I was gonna ask.

You are a great journalist,
Jackie.

- I'm sure she's gonna see that.
- Thank you.

But being a good editor

is about more than just
recognizing a good story.

Yeah, totally.
I get that.

Mm-hmm.

I once reported
on this dive team

that discovered
this new species of coral

right here off the coast.

That article went on
to win awards,

got me my first promotion.

But what I had to learn first

was what it was like to breathe
30 feet under the surface.

Do you understand
what I'm trying to say?

Yeah.

It's one thing to report
about something,

and it's quite another
to live it.

Never forget that.

Okay.

Did I hear they're gonna
close the newspaper?

Oh, actually,
it's being acquired.

Well, I suppose if things
don't work out,

you can always try this.

What is it?

There's a small town newspaper
up for sale

in Lantern Grove, Alaska.

I can't afford
to buy a newspaper.

You wouldn't have to.

They're giving it away
for free.

Free?

Yeah. All you have to do
is keep it running.

I am not moving to
the middle of Nowhere, Alaska,

to write about deer crossing.

I know, I know.
You're a big-city journalist.

Why do you have
a Juneau Weekly?

I used to live up there.

Oh, you used to live
near the North Pole?

Thanks anyway.

Why don't you
hang on to that?

Packing material for when you
move into that corner office.

[chuckles]

Free newspaper.

Nice.

- Very nice.
- Thanks.

You're a good writer,
Jacqueline.

Jackie.

Oh, everyone just
calls me Jackie.

Florence said you were
being considered

for the news editor position.

Yes. It's been a lifelong dream
of mine to run a newsroom,

and promotion to news editor
is the first step.

Unfortunately, with the size
and stature of our company,

I'll be needing someone
with more... experience.

Oh, but Florence said--

Jacqueline, I have no doubt
you're a talented journalist,

but being a supervisor

requires someone with
a whole different skill set.

Would you consider staying on
as a staff reporter?

That was my title
five years ago.

And who knows?

In a few years,
we may have something for you.

[scoffs]

I took the staff job.

Oh, well, maybe I should have
accepted it too. It's just--

I worked so hard
for that promotion.

I know.

It feels wrong
to start all over.

And I know I have
what it takes.

Any clue what you're
gonna do now?

Do you think I did
the wrong thing,

quitting like that?

I think you've worked very hard
to get where you are,

and you've never been
a hamster on a wheel.

What does that mean?

Running fast
in the same place,

not going anywhere.

Then I'm not crazy
for considering this?

Do you remember that ski trip

we took up there
when you were eight?

Vaguely.

You got snow in your jacket
and cried for hours.

Dad, I'm being serious.

Then seriously, I think you need
to see what it's all about.

Some of my best years
were from when I worked

for the Berkshire Gazette
in Nowheresville, Indiana,

and look where I ended up.

Your lifetime achievement award.

You always find a way to insert
that into our conversations.

Worked my whole life for it.
Gotta show it off.

But look what happened
to the Sunshine Chronicle.

I mean, print is on the decline.

Would this really be a step
in the right direction?

Local news is
the heart of our country,

no matter how it's reported.

And "editor-in-chief"
will look great on your resume,

no matter what.

No one's saying you have
to live in Alaska forever.

Just go get the experience.

You have nothing to lose,
except your fingers.

- What?
- Frostbite.

- It's cold up there.
- [laughs]

Okay.

P.A. ANNOUNCER: Passengers on
Flight 14 to Tonsina and Valdez

please line up at gate two.

"Looking forward to meeting up.

I'll be the one in the hat
with the flaps."

Great.

Uh, Finn Thompson? No?

- No, not me.
- Right. Sorry!

- Uh, Finn Thompson?
- Uh-uh.

Sorry.

Ugh! Everyone has flaps.

- [clears throat]
- Oh!

Finn Thompson?

I didn't realize there was
a person underneath all that.

Well, I like to be prepared.

Evidently.

Hey, listen,
sorry I'm a little late.

Traffic was a little backed up,
uh, for an elk herd.

Hope you weren't
waiting too long.

What do you say we jump in,
I'll blast the heat?

Okay.

So nice of you.

♪

So are you a newspaper
or a glassblowing company?

No, the newspaper
was my father's.

After he passed,

I was tasked with finding
someone to take it over,

and, well, here you are.

So why not just do it yourself?

I guess you could say
I never really had the, uh...

intuitive journalist gene.

Ha! So you really never
worked for your dad?

I had a paper route.

- Okay.
- Here's what I don't get.

You spent the last 15 years

working for
the Sunshine Chronicle.

Yes.

Why Lantern Grove?

Well, as it happens,

the Sunshine Chronicle
was recently purchased

by a large digital media
conglomerate.

You got fired.

No.

They just didn't recognize
everything I had to contribute.

You quit.

I just figured that the best way
to prove them wrong

would be to run
my own newspaper.

I do get to be
editor-in-chief, right?

Sure!

Okay.

Huh. You folks really like
Christmas around here.

This close to the North Pole,
how could you not?

My parents usually worked
every Christmas,

so I never really saw it
as that big a deal.

Well, get ready to find out just
how big a deal it really is.

Ugh. Wait.
This this can't be it.

Allow me to present
the Lantern Grove Press.

Okay, but what happened
to a proud institution

forged in the great
journalistic tradition?

Nah. No one really reads it
around here anymore.

At least not since it went down
to just doing one issue a month.

Coming?

[exhales]

Yeah.

FINN: Knock knock!

EDNA: Finn, is that you?

Come on over and say hello
to your new editor-in-chief.

Edna, this is Jackie Evans.

Pleasure to meet you.

Welcome to
Lantern Grove, Alaska.

Thank you.

Edna here
runs our printing press

and rents the apartment
upstairs.

Daniel was a good man.

It's been hard with him gone,

but it'll be nice
having a boss again.

Thank you.

- You're here!
- Hey!

- Hi!
- Hi. Ooh, hi!

Dolores here is
our newspaper's photographer.

Daniel took one look at her work
and knew she would be perfect.

Really? And what work is that?

I took all the menu photos
for my husband's diner.

Best gingerbread
in the whole county.

Well, I look forward
to working with the both of you.

So we have
a photographer and...

- Head of operations.
- Yes.

Okay. Where's the rest
of the staff?

Well, uh...

Edna and Dolores
are pretty much, uh, it,

in that they are it.

So two people
for the entire newspaper.

I'm no writer, but along
with some of my photographs,

we've included the latest
weather reports.

- And traffic.
- Yes, and fishing conditions.

Always.

So that's what
you've been printing?

Uh-huh.

Well, with Daniel gone,
there's been no real direction.

Yeah.

Until now.

And here you are,
our saving grace.

Well, first thing,
we need to hire a full staff,

and then maybe
get some new computers.

None those things
are in the budget.

Well, what's the budget?

Oh. Oh, oh, okay.
It's okay, it's okay

because once we start
printing issues

and things pick up,

it'll be the first thing
on the list.

Well, we've already printed
the December issue.

Well, fire up the presses,
ladies,

because we are
going daily again.

Well, you just tell me
what you want me to print,

and I'll print it.

Great.

Now, do you have
a place to stay?

I can always share
the upstairs apartment.

Oh, that is very kind of you,

but I just rented a place
right outside of town.

Well, should we hit the road
and get you settled?

Great, thanks.

Um, Edna, Dolores,
I will see the two of you

first thing
in the morning, okay?

- Okay.
- We'll be ready to work.

- Bye.
- Bye.

Ah!
[laughs]

Huh. It's secluded.

Now, the town butcher
used to live here,

so there's like a weird stench.

Just open some windows.

I'm kidding.

Hey, so, uh...

you need any help
getting settled?

It's a rental, so the heat
probably hasn't been on.

Well, I know how to run
a thermostat.

It's a wood-burning stove.

- Funny.
- Not kidding.

Well, I'm sure I know how
to light some wood on fire.

Why do I get the feeling
you're trying to get rid of me?

Maybe you have the intuitive
journalist gene after all

[laughing]

Okay.

Huh.

[shivering]
Ooh.

Huh.

Heat.

Heat, heat, heat, heat.

Huh.

No wood. Great.

I'm gonna bundle.
I'm just gonna bundle up.

I'm gonna bundle up.

[groaning]

Bundle up.

♪

Oh, you must be Jackie Evans.

I'm Dolores' husband, Teddy.

Oh, nice to meet you.
I hear you have a good coffee,

and I am desperately
in need of coffee.

Oh, we have good everything.

Wanna make it
a gingerbread latte?

A gingerbread--
A gingerbread latte?

Oh! Ooh!

Gingerbread is
our seasonal specialty.

You got gingerbread pie,
gingerbread soufflé,

gingerbread pudding,
gingerbread muffins,

gingerbread bread.

Okay! Gingerbread...

A gingerbread latte
sounds delicious.

- Well...
- Thank you.

Have a seat,
and we'll have that right out.

- Ooh!
- Hi, Mayor.

I'll get my usual
to-go today.

Lots to get done for
the Christmas tree decorating.

Bacon and eggs to-go,
coming up.

Oh, Mayor, this is Jackie,

the new editor-in-chief
of the Lantern Grove Press.

- Hi.
- You don't say.

Well, that's wonderful news.

Daniel Thompson
was a good friend of mine

- and a very lovely man
- Oh.

That paper meant a lot to him.

Glad someone is
showing an interest in it.

That wouldn't happen to be a dig
towards me there, would it?

No, of course not, Finn.

I'm happy that someone wanted
to take a chance on it.

- Oh, but I must tell you--
- Let me guess.

The people around here
don't read the newspaper.

Oh, good.
You already know.

Well, I hope to change
all of that.

It only takes a few good
articles to spark some interest.

I'm sure the people of Lantern
Grove are interested in...

something.

ALL: Christmas.

Oh, of course.

She doesn't like Christmas.

I-I didn't say that, exactly.

This close to the North Pole,
how can you not?

What I meant was--

What kind of news
interests people here?

Oh, I think... good news.

Okay, well, I better go
and figure all that out.

Thank you for the latte.

Pleasure.

Huh. They sure do love
Christmas.

Of course, when you're
this close to the North Pole.

[laughs]
So I've heard.

Finn's father used to throw
a massive Christmas party

every year right here.

Well, what happened?

He got sick.

Wasn't really the same
after that.

Oh.

But there.

That's every issue
for the last 10 years.

Whoa!

You got your standard
small-town stuff.

You know, store coupons,
good recipes, town elections.

Here's a good article
on our mayor.

You know what? I think I just
met him at the diner.

Does he always dress
in three-piece suits?

Owns hats in every color.

William's a snazzy dresser.

- Always has been.
- Oh!

- They go back.
- Uh-huh.

We went to high school together.
Prom date.

Then he married someone else,

and I got busy
doing other things.

Oh, I didn't see a ring.

Because he's divorced now.
Isn't that right, Edna?

It's never too late, Edna.

Can we get back to the paper?

- Okay.
- So...

were you serious
about going daily?

Of course. I mean,
news happens every day, right?

So first things first,

we should publish a short issue
as soon as possible,

announcing our return
to the town.

- Love it.
- And then we should reach out

to our subscriber base and
let them know what we're up to.

Is there a list?

Mm. All of our records
were done by hand.

Huh. Okay.

Huh. I don't suppose
either of you have a key.

Oh, Finn might.

Hmm. Of course.

I'll go get it.

You two stay here
and start brainstorming ideas

for our "we're back and
better than ever" edition.

Aye-aye, Captain.

- Hello.
- Uhh...

Almost done.

Oh, it's stunning.

Thanks.

It's part of the Christmas
ornament series I'm doing

for the town
Christmas tree decorating.

Of course you are.

Come on, I'll show you.

Every year, we put up a tree
at the old firehouse

and then folks come, and they
put up their own decorations.

Welcome.

When you said you made glass,

I thought you meant like
mirrors and windows.

Oh, sure, I could do that too,
I suppose,

if you really wanted me to.

Do you sell these?

Some.

Online, mostly.

Oh. So this is what you did

instead of following
in your dad's footsteps?

Yeah. He thought it was just
a hobby, something I'd outgrow.

But, boy, was he crushed
when I told him

I didn't want to grow up
to be a newspaperman.

Funny. All I've ever wanted
to do was run a newsroom.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Like since you were a kid?

Yeah. Before my dad retired,

he was the editor-in-chief
of the San Francisco Star.

[whistles]

Yeah. My mom was
a journalist too.

That's how they met.

I spent most of my childhood
in a newsroom.

I loved the energy of it all.

So basically
the complete opposite of me.

Mm...

So I'm guessing you didn't
come by to admire my art.

Oh, um, right.

Do you have the key
to your dad's files?

I need a list of
all your past subscribers.

Thank you.

Actually, though,

you should come to the firehouse
tomorrow night,

see what we're all about
here at Lantern Grove.

You know what?
That would be a great place

to hand out the first issue.

Or you can just come
and enjoy it for yourself.

Okay. You sound like
my friend Kat.

Business comes first.

But thank you.

[door opens]

[door closes]

Okay. I'm about to...

Oh, no, no, no, no.

We don't need my picture
in the paper.

Are you kidding? The readers
would love to get to know you.

Yeah, but this issue
is supposed to be

about our reintroduction
into the community.

You have to write a little
about yourself too.

- You're the big news.
- Mm-hmm.

Let the town meet
the new editor-in-chief.

You think I should?

Oh, totally.
It's a small town.

People like a personal touch.

Yeah, but the best
journalists always say

keep yourself out of the story.

Just a quick intro,
not your autobiography.

[laughs]

And see? You look great
in this picture.

Okay, well,
you do have a good eye.

Oh, thanks.

Okay, fine. I'll mention myself
on the last page,

if you think it'll generate
more interest.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

♪

♪

Hi. Would you like an issue
of the Lantern Grove Press?

We are relaunching
under new management.

- Excuse me, would you--
- No, thanks.

Should have put your picture
on the front, not the back.

I think they're just not
interested in a newspaper.

Oh! I got it.

No, no. Sorry, sir.
That's not what that is for.

- At least he took one.
- Yeah, ha ha.

Something to cheer you up?
Try it.

It's Teddy's secret
gingerbread recipe.

Your husband loves
gingerbread.

It's the flavor
of the season.

Wow.

Every year,
my grandmother used to make

gingerbread ornaments
for the tree.

And she'd always donate
the extra dough

to anyone who couldn't afford
Christmas cookies.

That's so sweet.
You guys do this every year?

TEDDY: Yeah, for the last
60 years.

Oh, that's incredible.

So all these ornaments
have individual significance?

Most of them, yeah.

That's what makes
our town tree so special.

Yeah.

FINN: What?

I just got a great idea
for a story.

Dolores, you wouldn't happen
to have your camera, would you?

Are you kidding?
I bring my camera everywhere.

- Good. Follow me.
- Uh, sure, boss.

Interesting gal.

She is.

♪ Let's celebrate Christmas ♪

♪ It's the best time
of the year ♪

♪ Sharing Christmas cheer ♪

♪ Everyone, let's celebrate
this Christmas ♪

♪ The snow is falling down ♪

♪ Santa's coming to town ♪

♪ Everyone, let's celebrate

♪ Let's celebrate
the good times ♪

♪ It's the best time
of the year ♪

♪ The family's all around
spreading the holiday cheer ♪

♪ Presents all around
and the rest are on the tree ♪

♪ It's the perfect kind
of situation ♪

♪ On this Christmas Eve ♪

♪ It will be Christmas

♪ The snow is falling down ♪

♪ Santa's coming to town ♪

♪ Everyone, let's celebrate ♪

Old school. Nice.

No. Actually, my phone died.
But my dad always said

never leave the house
without a pad and a pen.

I got so many great stories
tonight.

- Really?
- Yeah.

Did you know that the Ronsons
always knit their ornaments

in memory of their aunt?

Or that Patrick Brewer's
ornaments

are from his childhood pen pal,
who lives in Vietnam?

I did not know that.

I was thinking.

Since this town
loves Christmas so much,

why not kick off
the first issue

writing about
something they care about?

What about your ornament?

My ornament? I don't--
I don't have one.

You can't come to the
Lantern Grove tree decorating

and not put up
an ornament of your own.

Okay.

Now you do.

And I think I see
the perfect spot.

Uh, I better get going.

But thank you
for inviting me and...

for the ornament.

I had fun.

I had fun.

- I'll see you around.

- Yeah.
- Yeah.

♪

EDNA: Someone pulled
an all-nighter.

[yawns]
Sorry.

I wanted to finish while it
was still fresh in my mind.

Okay. I was thinking
we call it

"The Lantern Grove Press,
Christmas Edition."

- Ooh!
- You had me at "Christmas."

And if this does well,
then we'll print a second issue.

Or a third or a fourth
or twentieth.

Okay, there's only 2 1/2 weeks
left in December.

It's a good thing that this town
has endless Christmas cheer

to write about.

Come and get your first-ever
Christmas edition

of the Lantern Grove Press!

Read all about last night's
tree decorating!

And if you like what you see,

feel free to sign up
for a subscription.

I feel like one of them
old-timey newsies.

Extra! Extra!
Read all about it!

You just need a hat.

I actually look really good
in hats.

Maybe I'll get one.

Oh, there really is
something special

about holding a newspaper
in your hands.

Smells amazing too.

Can't get that
from a computer.

- Mmm!
- [laughing]

Here's the news. Enjoy.

Hi, how are you guys?
Hi, how are you?

You guys doing good?
Awesome.

I think the reindeer
looked better on the left.

Delores,
can I have a newspaper too?

Teddy! Look at the part about
your gingerbread cookies.

And Dolores got some
great shots of them too.

Hey, you guys wouldn't happen
to have a schedule

of all the Christmas events
happening around town?

Are you kidding?

Thank you.

There's a toy drive happening
at the firehouse today.

That would make a great
human interest piece.

- Dolores.
- Yes?

Do you think you could
come photograph it?

On it.

Last year I think I wrapped
almost 100 toys.

Just saying.

Uh-huh.

Let's see how many
you can do.

[scoffs]
It's just a story.

- Ah-ah-ah.
- I was just--

Well, I guess we're gonna be
wrapping some gifts.

♪

[click]

Hi, Finn.

Uh-oh. Delores with
her camera, always.

[camera phone clicking]

Uh-oh. Let me guess.
Phone died again.

No. I just kinda
took a liking to it.

You know, my dad
used to go on and on

about how it was superior
to any technology.

I kinda see what he meant.

My dad used to keep his
right here in his front pocket.

So what do you do here?

I am in charge of sorting
the toys into age groups,

which basically means
I get to try some of them out.

- Is that so?
- It's so.

- For instance, this ball here?
- Yeah.

Now, I, okay, have to bounce it
to know how high it goes

in order to know if it is safe
for small children.

That is very scientific.

- I know.
- Mm-hmm.

- Matter of fact...
- What?

You try.

No, no, uh-uh.
No, no, no, no. I'm not--

If you can throw
this Frisbee,

then we know
a six-year-old could too.

- Nice.
- Try.

No, I'm reporting.
I'm not participating.

Journalism is objective.

Oh! Christmas is subjective,
and these kids deserve to know

if they're getting
good toys or not.

Hmm...

Fine.

I'll go long.

Okay.

[clears throat]

Ooh! Oh!

[laughs]

I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!

Look what you made me do!

Yeah, but now we know it's
not safe for small children.

Okay.
[chuckles]

Perfect.

[camera phone clicks]

[click]

Um, so I'm gonna,
I'm gonna get back to reporting.

And I'm gonna get back
to, uh, sorting.

JACKIE: Looking at
all the presents,

one can only imagine the smiles
and wide-eyed excitement

of the children
who get to open up these toys

on Christmas morning.

For the volunteers
at the toy drive,

it's the thought of making
a kid's Christmas

that much brighter

that warms the heart.

So whether
it's a handful of clay

or the throw of a Frisbee,

thanks to the community
of Lantern Grove...

Christmas just got
a little more fun for everyone.

♪

- Hey, how are you?
- How are you?

Are you getting one too?

[laughs]

I mean, it went flying.

I'm just glad it didn't
hit the guy in the head.

Sounds like you and Finn
had fun.

Oh, yeah. Almost getting
kicked out of the toy drive,

a lot of fun.

I don't know.

You're smiling a lot more
than when I first met you.

I'm just glad
there's a line outside.

What?

I think Finn is very handsome.

- If I were 30 years younger...
- Edna!

I'm just saying.

Look, I don't understand him.

It's like every time
I feel like we're connecting,

- he just shuts down.
- To be continued.

Hey, Finn.

Am I crazy, or are people
lined up for the paper?

Well, get used to it

because there are a lot more
Christmas activities to cover.

I'm gonna get
some more string.

Well, does that mean you're
coming to my ice sculpting?

Your what, now?

Every year I sculpt ice
for charity.

All the money that we raise
from the auction

goes to provide meals
for the homeless.

Now, that sounds like
a front page story.

You know what sounds like
an even better story?

What?

Helping me.

- She'd love to.
- Edna!

- Great. It's settled then.
- No, no.

Besides not knowing the first
thing about ice sculpting,

I told you.

You told me.

You're reporting,
not participating.

- Exactly.
- Except my dad always told me

the best stories are the ones
that are personal to the writer.

Yeah, well, you're
the artistic one, not me.

Yeah, but you are logical
and hard-working,

and I think we can make
a pretty unstoppable team.

What do you say?

- [sighs]
- Yes, yes.

I-I say...
I say you're nuts.

And I say if you...

are gonna keep writing about
Christmas in this town,

then you need to experience
Christmas in this town.

- I guess it couldn't hurt.
- Good.

Hey, don't forget to charge
your angle grinder, okay?

- My what now?
- Don't be late.

[chuckles]

[click]

It's expressionistic, but I see
where you're going with it.

Ah, you just wait.

Don't get any ideas.
I'm just here for the story.

Nuh-uh.

A history lesson won't be
nearly as exciting

as you sawing into
your very own piece of ice.

I really just like
to keep all my fingers.

Is that too much to ask?

Oh, it's perfectly safe,
I promise.

Trust me. Check it out.

We got an assortment
of flat chisels.

Chisels?

- Angle grinder.
- Uh-huh.

And my personal favorite,
the bubble bit.

It seems harmless enough.

- [motor whirring]
- [gasps]

Ready?

Not really.

♪ It's time for a fire ♪

♪ 'Cause the Christmas bells
are ringing ♪

♪ 'Cause the Christmas
bells are ringing ♪

♪ And put on your mittens

♪ 'Cause the snowballs
will be slinging ♪

♪ 'Cause the snowballs will
be slinging ♪

♪ And drop off the tree ♪

♪ We'll be hanging
all the trimmings ♪

♪ We'll be hanging all
the trimmings ♪

♪ And down the chimney

♪ Santa knows
what he'll be bringing ♪

♪ 'Cause he'll be bringing ♪

♪ You for me, me for you ♪

♪ You for me, me for you ♪

♪ You for me, me for you ♪

♪ Santa will be bringing ♪

♪ You for me, me for you ♪

♪ Don't need to worry ♪

♪ 'Cause I know
what he'll be bringing ♪

♪ Do do do do do do do

♪ He'll be bringing you ♪

Oh!

- Looks good.
- Looks really good.

Oh, I'd have never thought
in a million years

that I could sculpt ice.

And yet, here you are.

Yeah, well,
I had a really good teacher.

This is magnificent.

- Great job, both of you.
- Thank you.

Nice hat.

And the winning bidder

for this year's charity
ice sculpture is...

the Sweet Moose Diner.

- Yes!
- [cheering]

Oh, wow. Looks like we beat
last year's record.

Way to go, you two.

[cheering continues]

"It was hard to say
what was more unexpected:

finding a shape
hidden in the ice

or finding a talent
hidden within myself.

Either way, it's safe to say

that I have never experienced
Christmas magic quite like that.

I'm glad a friend convinced me
to live the story

instead of just reporting it
because I discovered

that understanding
a Lantern Grove Christmas

means experiencing it
firsthand."

That's an article.

How's that feel?

Oh, good, weird.

I feel like I just shared
a piece of myself with everyone.

Everyone seems to be liking it.

Mm-hmm. Mm!

We just met
our subscription quota,

and that means that
with the very next issue,

we'll actually be
making a profit.

I gotta say,

you have exceeded
my expectations.

My dad would be proud.

I wish I could've met him.

Me too.
He would've liked you.

He would've loved you,
in fact.

Cheers...

to him...

to the paper...

and to you.

So what's next?

There isn't another
Christmas event for a few days,

so I've invited readers to share
their favorite Christmas memory

for the next issue.

Love it.

So you better
start working on yours

because I want to include
as many as I can.

♪

Okay.

JACKIE: Mrs. Adams,

one of the oldest citizens
of Lantern Grove,

recalled one special
Christmas memory

from many years ago.

A young man named Tom
would come to her window

and serenade her with
a different carol every night,

leading up to Christmas.

On the last night,
as he sang the chorus

to "Hark! The Herald
Angels Sing,"

he got down on one knee
and gave her a ring.

♪ Hark! The herald angels sing

♪ Glory to the newborn king ♪

♪ Peace on Earth
and mercy mild ♪

♪ God and sinners reconciled ♪

[door closes]

- ♪ Joyful all--
- [clears throat]

[gasps]

Got a beautiful voice.

How long have you
been standing there?

Hmm, long enough.

Oh.

I haven't sung for an audience
since fifth grade choir.

I just got caught up in
this piece that I'm writing.

Felt like I was living
in the memory for a second.

- It's the sign of a good story.
- Mm-hmm.

So did you come to share
your favorite Christmas memory?

Actually, I thought
I'd show you instead.

Huh. Right now?

Right now.

Okay, yeah.

♪

[sighs]

What are we doing?

Trust me?

Yeah.

Close your eyes.

- About a dozen more steps.
- Okay.

Can I open yet?

- Almost.
- Okay.

- Almost.
- Yeah?

Few more.

- One more?
- Okay.

- Now?
- Yeah.

Oh, wow.

You ain't seen nothing yet.

[click, whirring]

Oh!

This is unreal.

Go on, take a look.

Yeah? Okay.

You know, when I was a kid,

my dad would bring me up here
all the time,

and I'd stare through
the telescope,

and he'd tell me all about
the constellations

and the planets.

At least for a little while,

all our differences
would be just put aside.

Dads are the best.

Yeah.

I was always worried
I was gonna let him down, but...

not anymore.

Thanks to you.

Okay, what am I seeing?
What is this?

Let's see.

That...

is Ursa Major.

Is it?

The great bear.

Native to Alaska.

The Inuit actually called it
"tukturjuit."

The caribou.

Okay. Reindeer?

Hey, I told you Christmas
is a big deal around here.

Anyway, in the fall,

when the caribou would
rise up on its hind legs,

that's when the Inuit would know
that midnight was approaching.

Really?

That's how the ice hunters knew

that they could find their way
back to land.

Alaska's a pretty magical place.

Yeah.

So I'm learning.

- Wanna see something cool?
- Mm-hmm.

[click, whirring]

First time seeing
the Northern Lights?

Yeah.

This is the most beautiful thing
I have ever seen.

Thank you...

for sharing this with me.

♪ When you feel
the seasons change ♪

♪ And all the people
are counting down the days ♪

♪ Snow is falling
to the ground ♪

♪ And that loving feeling's
all around ♪

♪ Decorations on the tree ♪

♪ We share the love and joy
with friends and family ♪

♪ It should come
as no surprise ♪

♪ The love you're looking for
is right before your eyes ♪

♪ Anything can happen
at Christmas ♪

♪ There's a magic in the air

♪ Anything can happen
at Christmas ♪

♪ You can see it everywhere ♪

- Hi.
- Hi there.

Huh.

There she is.

The one who all the success
is owed to.

Our editor-in-chief,
Jackie Evans.

I'm Kelly from Buzz News.

We've been doing
short segments

about Christmas miracles,

and we heard that you
single-handedly revived

a newspaper that was
nearly out of business.

Oh, well, I wouldn't say
single-handedly.

Edna here runs
our printing press,

and we have
a great photographer.

You got this.

Is it true
you became editor-in-chief

after seeing an ad
in another paper?

Yes. The son
of the previous owner

had been looking for someone
to run the place,

and of course,
when I got here,

I realized there wasn't
much of a paper left.

How did you turn things around
so quickly?

Christmas editions.

People want to read about
news they care about,

and I discovered
that people in this town

care very much
about Christmas.

Here in Lantern Grove,

Christmas isn't just about
gifts and cookies.

It's about people coming
together to create memories

and show support
for one another.

I mean, the whole town is like
one big happy family.

So what will happen to the paper
after Christmas is over?

What do you mean?

Do you have plans
for the rest of the year?

Um, well,

you're just gonna
have to wait and see.

Well, folks,

while many newspapers
around the country

have been moving online,

the Lantern Grove Press
has started to thrive again,

thanks to one woman
and the vibrant community

of this small Alaskan town.

- Thanks.
- Yeah.

Very cool
what you've done here.

Thanks.
Um, hey, excuse me.

- Can I ask you something?
- Sure.

Who runs Buzz News?

- We're a subset of Dower Media.
- Of course you are.

They pretty much
own everything these days.

I'm sure it won't be long
till they wanna buy this place.

Thanks.

[sighs]

We have tripled our numbers.

I've got subscription requests
from Winter Pines.

That's 20 miles away.

And look at the stack
of resumes we got

from people applying
to work here.

That's good news, Jackie.

What? Oh, yeah.
It's fantastic.

Then why does your face
say otherwise?

She's right.

What's gonna happen to our paper
after Christmas?

I mean, what if people
lose interest?

They won't, not as long as
we keep giving the community

what they like to read.

I just wish there was a way
to keep their attention.

Something that could bring
the whole town together.

Something they all enjoy.

A symbol of what this paper
means to the community.

A way to take our success
and keep it year-round.

Are you saying
what I think you're saying?

I mean, when you're this close
to the North Pole, why not?

We're gonna need
a lot of tinsel.

Fresh-baked gingerbread
cream puffs!

Oh, you magician!

And you seem to be
in a really good mood.

What are you talking about?
It's usual mood.

Dolores said she saw
you and Jackie

driving down Main Street
together the other night.

Fine.

Yeah, I like her.

See? That wasn't so hard.

Yeah, but admitting it
is not the hard part.

Telling her is?

What if she doesn't feel
the same way?

What if something better
comes along for her?

Then give her
a reason to stay.

Cream puffs?

No. Telling her how you feel.

But yeah, those will
get the ball rolling.

[sighs]

You're a genius.

[door opens]

[door closes]

Left one.

Other left. Santa.

[laughs]
Thanks.

Hey, I, uh...

brought you cream puffs.

- Ooh.
- Gingerbread.

- Teddy?
- Yeah.

I wanted to talk to you
about something.

Mmm. These are so good.

Do you think we can get some
for the party?

What party?

Ah. I've decided
it's been too long

since Lantern Grove Press

has had their annual
Christmas party, so...

this year,
we're bringing it back.

You're gonna throw
a Christmas party?

This close to the North Pole,
how could I not?

That's okay, right?

My dad lived
for those parties. When?

The 23rd.

Christmas-Eve Eve.

- Mm-hmm.
- Love that.

So you approve.

- On one condition.
- Hmm?

You let me...
help you decorate.

Deal. So what'd you want
to talk to me about?

- Hmm?
- Just now.

You said there was something
you wanted to talk to me about.

Did not. I did? Forgot.

Okay. Well, if you remember,
let me know.

KELLY: Is it true
you became editor-in-chief

after seeing another ad
in another paper?

JACKIE: Yes. The son
of the previous owner

had been looking for someone
to run the place.

Of course, when I got here,

I realized there wasn't
much of a paper left.

KELLY: This is only
your 12th issue.

How did you turn things around
so quickly?

Oh, Christmas editions.

People want to read about
news they care about,

and I discovered
that the people here

care a great deal
about Christmas.

Here in Lantern Grove,

Christmas isn't about
gifts and cookies.

It's about coming together
to create memories

and showing support
for one another.

The whole town is like,
I don't know,

one big happy family.

Jacqueline.

Hmm.

Brianna, get me the numbers
for a paper called...

the Lantern Grove Press.

Think there's too much?

Um, how much garland
is too much garland?

This much garland?

[laughs]
It's fine.

What are you working on?

It's a new weekly feature
I came up with.

It's a spotlight
on local businesses.

I thought we could
start with a business

that specializes
in Christmas items,

but also sells other items
throughout the year.

Oh, you mean like maybe
the town glassblower.

Okay, fine.

I was thinking Finn
would be a great business

to kick things off.

His work is stunning.

I just don't think a lot of
people know what it all entails.

So it has nothing to do
with the fact

that you're falling in love
with him?

Oh, Dolores, I'm a journalist.
I'm impartial.

Then pretend I'm asking
my friend Jackie

and not journalist Jackie.

I... Yes.

I knew it! I could've told you
from the moment you got here.

I didn't even like him then!

And what is your excuse now?

I don't know.

It's like he's still afraid
to get involved,

like he thinks he's gonna
jinx the paper or something.

Well, the only way
to find out for sure

is to tell him how you feel.

Yeah, well,

first, I'm going to see
how he does his craft

and then write
a great article.

And then
you're gonna tell him.

Mm-hmm.

I'll think about it.

FINN: Come in!

That is incredible.

Thank you.

Thought I'd experiment
with some different colors,

and I'm still finessing
the details,

but I thought
it kind of reminded me of...

The Northern Lights.

Yeah, exactly.

So what are you gonna do
with all these, sell them?

Actually, no. Um...

I made them for the party.
Your party.

The big paper's party.

I thought you could
hang them on a tree

or put them up
in the office or...

Thank you.

Thank you.

Means a lot,
what you're doing.

I'm sure he'd be proud.

Yeah.

Of many things.

So what do I owe
this drop-in to?

Oh, I was thinking of starting
a feature on local businesses,

and, well, I thought
you should be the first one.

Did you?

Yeah. I mean,
if you're up for it.

- Well, that depends.
- On what?

Well, I think if you're going to
properly convey my techniques,

then you need to try it
for yourself.

You want me to what?

Safety is our first priority.

Okay.

All right. Careful.

Careful.

Oh, so it's hot.

Yeah, it's about 2,500 degrees.

- So what you're gonna do...
- Okay.

- You take this.
- All right.

- Just like that.
- Mm-hmm.

Oh, God.

You're gonna dip it down
in the flame.

- Just like that.
- Yeah.

And you're gonna roll it.

- Am I doing this right?
- Yeah.

All right.

This just helps
to distribute the heat evenly.

Yeah?

And then
once you start to see

that the glass
is starting to soften...

- You see that?
- Yeah.

Then you can take that and
put it into the crushed glass.

That's perfect. And then you
go back into the heat.

Mm-hmm.

You roll it,

and now you're ready
for the best part.

Now we just blow?

- Yeah, you blow and roll.
- Okay.

- Like this.
- Mm-hmm.

Just even breaths.

Every like
10 to 15 seconds apart.

[blowing]

Now it goes in
the annealing oven,

which is only 1,050 degrees.

And then we let it cool down
over the next 14 hours.

Oh, I'm sorry. 14 hours?

Yeah. This way it doesn't crack
while it hardens.

It's a slow process.

So sort of the exact opposite

of working at a newspaper.

Probably why my dad and I
were opposites.

He liked the constant go.

I like the constant slow.

Hmm. So I've noticed.

I know you were close,
and I just need you to know.

I won't let either of you down.

[phone buzzing]

Sorry.

I don't--

I don't know this number.
Sorry.

We should go to the party
together.

Together? As in a date?

Yeah, like a date.

Okay, yeah.
That sounds great.

JACKIE: Watching the glass
take shape

was like watching magic.

I had to remind myself that it
was just physics and chemistry.

Definitely a lot of chemistry.

But the way the glass moved
and the colors blended

with only
the slightest guidance,

it was otherworldly.

[phone ringing]

Hello.

Jacqueline, finally we connect.

I've been trying to reach you.

I'm sorry. Who is this?

Melanie Dower.
I just touched down in Juneau,

and I'm heading your way.

Why?

I want to buy...

the Lantern Grove Press.

I underestimated you.

What you've done here is
nothing short of a miracle.

A paper that was
basically dead

is now profitable again.

Thank you.
I appreciate you saying that.

When I saw your interview
on our Buzz News site,

I knew I had made a mistake,
Jacqueline.

Uh, it's... Jackie.

Jackie.
Let me make it up to you.

I want to buy
the Lantern Grove Press,

which in turn
will free you up

to come back
to the Sunshine Chronicle

as editor-in-chief.

Oh.

That's my dream job.

So that's a yes?

Uh, technically the paper still
belongs to the Thompson family.

It's not mine to sell.

Then I'll call him.
I'm sure we can make a deal.

Okay, assuming all that happens,
who's gonna oversee things here?

No one. It will just
become an outlet

for our regularly
syndicated news,

which is a win-win.

As part of Dower Media,

the Lantern Grove Press will
be available for its readers

for many years to come,
across the country.

[chuckles]
Just not in print.

You know we're a strictly
digital company.

Yeah, yeah.

Um, can I think about it?

Sure, but I fly out tomorrow.
I need to know then.

Christmas Eve?

Is it? Oh. I'm so busy.
Hard to remember.

How do I find
this Finn fellow?

Um, uh, actually,

would it be okay
if I talk to him first?

Of course. I'm staying
at the B&B on Main.

Just let me know.

Okay.

[door opens]

[door closes]

Hot off the presses!

Not so bad,
if I don't say so myself.

Jackie?

What would you do...

if someone offered you
your dream job,

but it meant leaving
Lantern Grove?

Well, that wouldn't be
my dream job.

Exactly.

Lantern Grove has
everything I could ever need.

What's wrong?

Dower Media wants to buy
Lantern Grove Press.

Wait, what?

So what would happen to you?

I'd go back to
the Sunshine Chronicle

as editor-in-chief.

[sighs]

- That's a lot to process.
- Mm-hmm.

It would also mean
that Lantern Grove Press

would be an online newspaper.

You are...

talented and hardworking.

You deserve to go as far
as you can in your career.

It's the job I always wanted.

Then you have to take it.

Mm-hmm.

But the idea of of leaving
both of you and Finn, I--

We know, we know.

We know.

It's Santa hat day.

Won't be served
without a Santa hat.

Hey, Finn,
I need to talk to you.

Which one should I wear
to the party tonight?

Oh, no, it's not--
It's not about that.

Jackie, I hope you'll be joining
us for Christmas Eve dinner.

Oh, I make the best
roasted potatoes.

Hey, can we take a walk?

- Yeah.
- Yeah, okay.

So?

Dower Media Group wants to buy
Lantern Grove Press.

Well, that's great news,
isn't it?

That ensures my father's legacy.
He'd be thrilled.

Yeah. It wouldn't be printed.
It'd be online.

Okay, but you'd still be
running the paper, wouldn't you?

I won't sell
unless you're running it.

[sighs]

You would still be in charge,
wouldn't you?

I've been offered
the editor-in-chief

back in San Diego.

Wow. The job
you originally wanted.

Better than the job I wanted.

What'd you tell her?

That the paper
isn't mine to sell.

That she'd have to talk to you,
but I wanted to tell you first.

No, I meant what'd you tell her
about taking the job?

That I'd think about it.

Do you want it?

I do, but it's not--
It's not that easy.

When do you get to decide by?

Soon.

Tomorrow.

Tomorrow?

Well, I guess we better
make tonight count, right?

Still pick you up
for the party?

Yeah, yeah.
I mean, if you still want to.

Yeah, of course.
A date's a date

Okay.

MR. EVANS: This job was just
to help give you experience,

boost your resume.

- And it did that, right?
- Yeah.

You were so successful
with the Christmas edition

that now the bigwigs
are calling.

That was the plan,

but I guess
I didn't account for...

- Mr. Handsome Glassblower guy?
-Okay.

Amongst other things.

It's weird, but when Melanie
first offered me the job,

the only thing
I could think of was...

missing the smell of fresh ink
from the printing press.

Random, I know.

Sometimes
it's the little things

that add up to what we love.

Every time I was offered
a position at a bigger paper,

I had to decide
what mattered most to me.

And what was that?

You and your mom.

I knew I'd be working
an insane amount of hours

and barely
get to see you guys.

Just wasn't for me.

But you're a free bird.

An independent spirit.

The little girl that played

pretend New York Times
newsroom.

Okay.

Oh! I have to go.

Finn will be here in a bit,
and I have to get ready.

Have a fun date.

And, Jackie,
whatever you decide,

I'm here for you.

♪

JACKIE: It's open.

Wow.

I, uh...

love what you've done
with the place.

Well, when you're this close
to the North Pole...

Wow.

Stop it.

No. I mean...

You look stunning.

Are those for me?

Yes.

Those are for you.

And those are, um...

- snapdragons.
- Oh!

Which is actually
one of the only flowers

that grows in the wintertime
here in Alaska.

Wow. What are some
of the other ones?

No idea. That's just what Gilda
at the flower place said.

Listen, about the job...

No, no, mm-mm, no.
Not tonight.

- Okay?
- Yeah.

Tonight we're going
to a party.

Okay. Um, you just
put these in water?

♪ Deck the halls
with boughs of holly ♪

♪ Fa la la la la
La la la la ♪

♪ 'Tis the season to be jolly

♪ Fa la la la la
La la la la ♪

♪ Don we now our gay apparel

Hey!

- Mayor.
- Great to see you.

Merry Christmas.

How are you?

Well, mighty fine party
you two pulled together.

Oh, this is all
Jackie and Finn.

Give yourself some credit too.

I know how hard you work.

Have you seen the updates
on our new printing press?

Oh, no.

I'd love to see.

Follow me.

Ooh!

You throw a nice party.

I only hope we live up
to your father's legacy.

This...

is much better.

You sound so certain.

I am 'cause you're here.

Finn, listen.

No.

No.

Jackie?

Melanie, I didn't expect
to see you here.

Well, I heard this is
the place to be.

And you know me. I like to have
my finger on the pulse.

Well, I'm glad you're here.
This is Finn Thompson.

Finn, it's a pleasure
to meet you.

This is Melanie Dower.

Dower Media.

And hopefully
the future owner

of the Lantern Grove Press.

Well, whatever Jackie decides,
I'll go with.

Well, that's great news.

We don't need to talk shop
right now.

I just wanted to experience this
lovely little town for myself.

And right now I see there's
some homemade gingerbread

that needs experiencing
right over there.

Excuse me.

Well, so much for not
talking about it tonight.

Are you serious,
that it's up to me to sell?

Yeah, of course.

But if you left...

who would run the place?

I'm sure I'm not the only one
that can run this place.

No one would do
as good a job as you.

[tapping on glass]

WOMAN: Jackie, speech!

MAN: Jackie, speech!

Speech, speech!

No one.

Um, I didn't...

I didn't prepare anything
for tonight,

but I want to say a few words
about all of you

and this wonderful paper.

My father once told me
that I have,

and I quote, "never been
a hamster on a wheel."

apparently
that I've been incapable

of staying in one place
for too long.

If you'd have asked me
a couple of months ago

where I saw my future,

I would have told you...

news editor of the Sunshine
Chroniclein San Diego,

where today it was
a wintry 66 degrees.

[laughter]

But something happened.

And thanks to a little article
in Juneau Weekly,

I found a little newspaper
in a little town

looking for someone to run it.

I'll admit I, uh...

I really just needed a job,

but what I got was a family.

And thanks to all of you,
an adventure.

Alaska is a magical place.

Thank you, all of you,

for sharing it with me.

Merry Christmas.

ALL: Merry Christmas!

Hi, guys!
Can I get a picture?

Perfect.

Perfect.

You're doing great, okay?

What a great party.

Wow. She is something.

Yes, she is.

That was amazing.

Thank you.

Jackie, take the job.

Do you really mean that?

I have this feeling that...

It's like this
overwhelming sense

of just wanting you
to be happy.

Yeah.

I have that same feeling
for you.

Go on.

Tell her.

Hey, you need a hand?

No. Not much to pack.

Mm-hmm.

I got this for you

as a thank you
for everything.

I love it!
[laughs]

Oh, you do look good
in that hat.

- Thank you.
- Uh-huh.

I know you've only
been here a month, but...

it seems like
I've known you a lifetime.

Yeah, I know what you mean.

Do you, um...

Do you think
I'm doing the right thing?

Maybe there isn't always
a right thing.

I think there's always
a best thing,

and that's different for people,
depending upon what they want.

Hmm. And that...

is a clever way
of not answering my question.

[laughs]

That's 'cause
I can't answer it.

My best thing
is different from yours.

Mm. And your best thing

would be finally asking
William out on a date.

In due time.
There is no rush.

Yeah.

Not here in Lantern Grove.

I sent you the latest issue
of the Christmas edition,

and I guess my last.

I know you're gonna be
headed out soon,

but I think this issue deserves
a letter from the editor.

Hmm.

I'll see what I can do.

Jackie!

- I'm gonna miss you so much.
- I know.

I'm gonna miss you too.

Keep taking pictures, yeah?

I promised Melanie
you'd keep 'em coming.

Of course.

But it's not gonna be the same
without you.

Yeah, I know.

Listen, have you seen Finn?

I actually leave tonight
on Melanie's plane.

No one's talked to him
since last night.

Jackie!

I'm glad you're here.
Great news.

I've had so many businesses
asking if you can feature them

in the Lantern Grove Press,

some even asking for ad space.

William, you haven't heard?

Jackie won't be
running the paper anymore.

- What's that now?
- It'll still exist.

Just as a syndicate
to Dower News Media.

Oh. What about Edna?

She'll shall stay on
as community liaison to Dower.

Oh.

I better get going.

I am so sorry that I'm gonna
miss Christmas Eve dinner.

- Me too.
- Yeah.

Come here.

JACKIE: I always thought
being a good journalist

meant keeping
an outside perspective.

My entire adult life,
that's what I did.

I observed other people,
other places and other things.

Christmas to me
was no different.

Just another subject
to report on.

I've written articles
about Christmas parades,

Christmas charity balls,
Christmas consumerism,

but I never experienced
a true Christmas

until I came to Lantern Grove.

The beauty of this place is
you can't just be a bystander.

You have to be a part of it.

This community embraced me

and allowed me to live
inside the narrative

for the first time in my life.

And let me tell you,
it has been more wonderful

than I could have
ever imagined.

People want to read about
things they care about

and can only do so if it's
clear the writer cares as well.

Let me tell you,
Lantern Grove, I care.

I care about your traditions,

your ornaments,
your memories,

your kindness
and your talents.

But most of all,
I care about all the people

that encompass this place.

As I bid farewell,
I take with me

the notion that it's never
enough just to report on life,

but it's imperative
to experience it,

to hold in your hand
just like this newspaper.

Christmas may come
just once a year,

but I've learned here
in Lantern Grove

that it's a feeling that
I never want to live without.

[ding]

Hmm.

Okay.

Are you ready?

Well, you travel light.
What, no bags?

Uh, Melanie?

I'm so sorry,
but I've changed my mind.

What?

I don't want to leave
Lantern Grove.

I want to stay here and print
newspapers as editor-in-chief

as long as I can.

So you don't want
the job with us.

I'm so grateful
and flattered,

but everything I ever wanted

and never even knew I needed,

I have right here.

You do realize
you're giving up

being a part of the largest
digital news community

in the country.

Yes...

because I found my community,

and it's here in Lantern Grove.

I want to spend Christmas here
every year

and life here every day.

I've been here a few days.

I can see the charm.

I wish you all
the best of luck,

and I hope
the Lantern Grove Press

stays in business
for many years to come,

even if we don't own it.

Thank you.

Oh, thank you
for understanding.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

[sniffs]

Oh, this is my famous
gingerbread stuffing.

What? No gingerbread
crusted casserole?

- That is still in the oven.
- Good job.

Teddy, it looks delicious.

- It smells wonderful.
- Mmm!

Let's eat.

Jackie!

Uh, Teddy, help me get the rest
of the food from the kitchen.

You too.

To the back.

Oh!

Thought you left.

I, uh...

I said no to the offer.

You're not selling?
You're not leaving any of it?

Mm-mm.
I'm here to stay.

For good.

What about your dream?

Well, my dream was
to run a newsroom.

But in this town,
I get to do that

and be with you.

Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

♪

♪ Spread the word
The holidays are coming ♪

♪ Spread the word
Gonna hit the ground running ♪

♪ Spread the word
Christmas is coming soon ♪

♪ Extra, extra
Read all about it ♪

♪ Christmas edition's
on its way ♪

♪ Read it in the paper
that Santa is coming ♪

♪ So open your heart
and let the love in ♪

♪ Christmas is on its way ♪

♪ Time to decorate
and do the online shopping ♪

♪ Trim the tree
and hang the stockings ♪

♪ Christmas is on its way ♪

♪ And I can't wait ♪

♪ Spread the word
The holidays are coming ♪

♪ Spread the word
Gonna hit the ground running ♪

♪ Spread the word
Christmas is coming ♪