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00:00:00It's the most wonderful time of the year
00:00:16With the kids jingle belling and everyone telling you be of good cheer
00:00:24It's the most wonderful time of the year
00:00:29It's the happiest season of all
00:00:36With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings when friends come to call
00:00:43It's the happiest season of all
00:00:50There'll be parties for hosting my spouse
00:00:53Excuse me
00:00:54Oh my
00:01:07Oops
00:01:10Laurel, be careful. You'll spill your cocoa
00:01:15Merry Christmas
00:01:18Good morning. Welcome to the plaza
00:01:20Oh, here, let me help you with that
00:01:24Oh, thanks
00:01:26May I assist you with your baggage?
00:01:30Well, I don't have any. I'm here to see Amanda Clark
00:01:33Oh, well checked at the concierge
00:01:35I hope you've made an appointment
00:01:36She's a very busy lady this time of year
00:01:38Actually, I'm going to be working here
00:01:40Oh, really?
00:01:41Yeah, I'm doing research for the plaza about...
00:01:44Oh, Christmas!
00:01:45Oh, you've heard?
00:01:46Yes, yes, we've been talking about it for weeks
00:01:48We're all very excited about that
00:01:50Oh, good
00:01:50So, now why don't you hold on to that?
00:01:54There may be more hot cocoa ahead
00:01:56Thank you
00:01:57I'm Jessica Cooper
00:01:58I'm Reginald Brookwater
00:02:01Head Bellman at your service
00:02:03So you're here to study our grand lady
00:02:06The plaza provided a grant to the university
00:02:08And I'm the archival historian in charge of the project
00:02:11You have a very impressive title
00:02:13I'm not as important as it sounds
00:02:15I wouldn't be so sure of that
00:02:17You know what we say around here
00:02:18What do you say around here?
00:02:20Nothing unimportant ever happens at the plaza
00:02:23Hi, Dennis
00:02:32Hi
00:02:33It's all set
00:02:34We fly out of JFK on Christmas Eve
00:02:35This is so exciting
00:02:37I can't wait to meet your parents
00:02:38I just hope they're not disappointed
00:02:40Why would they be disappointed?
00:02:42Because their son is dating somebody
00:02:43Who's using her PhD to study Christmas trees
00:02:46How did your mom take the news
00:02:47That she won't be home for Christmas this year?
00:02:49No, excuse me
00:02:49Surprisingly well
00:02:50She's gonna go on that Caribbean cruise
00:02:51She always wanted to
00:02:52Dennis, I'm gonna have to call you back
00:02:56Who leads a ladder just standing around?
00:03:00I do
00:03:01Oh, oh no
00:03:03Um, hang on
00:03:05Good idea
00:03:06I'm so sorry
00:03:09I didn't know you were up there
00:03:10Must have been an important phone call
00:03:13I was talking to my boyfriend
00:03:20Well, with boyfriends you get an automatic free pass
00:03:23Just maybe watch where you're going next time, huh?
00:03:26Or maybe put up a sign next time
00:03:28Like that one?
00:03:30Like that one?
00:03:41Hey, Merry Christmas
00:03:42One suit, sponged and pressed for Mr. George Kaplan
00:03:47Room 796
00:03:48Anything else?
00:03:50Of course, Mr. Kaplan
00:03:51My pleasure
00:03:52Good morning
00:03:54Uh, how may I help you?
00:03:55Theater tickets?
00:03:56No, thank you
00:03:57Dinner reservations
00:03:58No, I
00:03:59You need car service
00:04:00Actually, I'm looking for
00:04:01Here you are
00:04:02And right on time, too
00:04:04I like punctuality
00:04:05It shows character
00:04:06Good morning, Ms. Clark
00:04:07Amanda
00:04:08Amanda, thank you
00:04:10And I see you've met Kenny, our head concierge
00:04:13Hi
00:04:13Hi
00:04:14Anything you need
00:04:15He's here to help, isn't that right, Kenny?
00:04:18That's right, Amanda
00:04:18Ms. Clark
00:04:23This way
00:04:26This is where I think we should place the installation
00:04:38I must tell you
00:04:40We are all very eager to see what you have in mind
00:04:45Christmas traditions are very important to us here
00:04:50And what better place to honor the legacy of Christmas at the Plaza than our historic Oak Room
00:05:03About that, I was hoping you could give me some idea of what you're really looking for
00:05:07I was thinking a sort of museum-art gallery combination
00:05:14You know, panels and pedestals
00:05:18And of course, there will be an opening night party with champagne
00:05:21That's not quite what I mean
00:05:22When I'm developing an archival history presentation, I like to have some kind of point of view
00:05:28You know, like a through line or a
00:05:31A Christmas story
00:05:32Well, not exactly a
00:05:34That sounds perfect
00:05:35What does?
00:05:36We need a Christmas story
00:05:38And since you're the expert, I'm going to let you come up with one
00:05:42I'm not really a story person
00:05:46I deal in facts
00:05:47Facts
00:05:49Yes
00:05:50You see, the thing about history is you don't have to make anything up
00:05:53The story's already happened
00:05:55That just makes it easier, then
00:05:59Our records room is this way
00:06:10All you have to do is go through the hotel files
00:06:14There are plenty of references to Christmas parties
00:06:18And tree lighting, carol singing, special holiday events
00:06:23It shouldn't be very difficult
00:06:26Wow
00:06:36Yes, isn't it something
00:06:39Most of these are pre-internet
00:06:41So they haven't been scanned or digitally preserved
00:06:44These are the original files
00:06:47How far back does all of this date?
00:06:49I don't really know
00:06:50But I don't think anything would have been thrown out
00:06:53So it could be over a hundred years worth
00:06:56Well, I'll leave you to it
00:06:59Which ones are the Christmas files?
00:07:02I have no idea
00:07:03You mean they're not categorized?
00:07:07Well, no
00:07:07That's why you're here
00:07:09Miss Clark
00:07:11Amanda
00:07:12Amanda
00:07:13Going through all these records could take a year at least
00:07:17Well, you certainly don't have a year
00:07:20Opening night of the display is planned for December 15th
00:07:24Uh, but that's only three weeks away
00:07:27Oh, I know
00:07:29But fortunately, you won't have to do it all alone
00:07:33You'll be coordinating with our Christmas decorator
00:07:35Christmas decorator?
00:07:36There he is now
00:07:38Mr. Pirelli, I'd like you to meet someone
00:07:40This is Jessica Cooper
00:07:42She's in charge of the history of Christmas at the Plaza display
00:07:46Jessica Cooper
00:07:47Nick Pirelli
00:07:48Surprise
00:07:49Surprise
00:07:51You two know each other?
00:07:54We've met
00:07:55Well, that's good
00:07:57Because you'll be working together this Christmas
00:07:59What are you supposed to be looking for?
00:08:10Christmas
00:08:11What kind of Christmas?
00:08:15Uh, like celebrations, events, photographs
00:08:18Anything that connects the plaza to the holiday season
00:08:21What is that?
00:08:22To create an historic installation celebrating the legacy of Christmas at the plaza
00:08:26Oh, like a museum
00:08:29Yeah, like a museum
00:08:31You do that for a living?
00:08:34Yeah, I have degrees in anthropology, urban archaeology, and social genealogical studies
00:08:38But be careful, one more degree, you'll have a fever
00:08:42I think that if people respect the past, it helps them understand the present
00:08:47You know what they say about people who hang on to the past
00:08:49They're afraid of the future
00:08:53I don't think that's true
00:08:56Can you not touch anything, please?
00:09:04Sorry
00:09:05In historic terms, we call this an artifact
00:09:08In New York terms, we call this a newspaper
00:09:10Don't you have trees to put up?
00:09:16Well, I thought we were supposed to be working together
00:09:17We are, and if I need you, I'll call
00:09:20Okay
00:09:22Enjoy your artifacts
00:09:24Do you think I was rude to him?
00:09:43No
00:09:44He sounds pushy, overbearing, and full of himself
00:09:46Is he single?
00:09:48I don't know, why?
00:09:50Ask him if he likes almost famous musical theater actors
00:09:53I'm in the market for my next ex-boyfriend
00:09:56Speaking of bad relationships, uh, how's Dennis?
00:10:01Cass, don't start
00:10:03Let's try here
00:10:04You know I'm right
00:10:06You've been dating for how long?
00:10:09Two years next week
00:10:10Exactly, and that finger is still bare
00:10:14And I'm okay with that
00:10:15Of course you are, because you're afraid of commitment
00:10:16You know, just because you took one psychology course in school doesn't mean...
00:10:21Let's try over there
00:10:22I've watched it happen
00:10:25Every time a guy gets serious, you bail
00:10:27That's why your relationship with Dennis has lasted this long
00:10:30You're afraid of commitment, and he's afraid to commit
00:10:32You know, face it, Jess
00:10:33You're stuck in a dead-ed relationship
00:10:35For your information, Dennis has made a commitment
00:10:38He's taken me to meet his parents
00:10:40In Florida
00:10:41Really?
00:10:42We fly out on Christmas Eve
00:10:44Mm-hmm
00:10:45Uh, back there
00:10:47Yeah
00:10:47Whose idea was that?
00:10:48Ugh, what do you mean?
00:10:50Well, to meet the parents
00:10:51I don't know
00:10:52Well, who bought the tickets?
00:10:54Was it Dennis or the parents?
00:10:55What difference does it make?
00:10:57Maybe none
00:10:58But if Dennis bought the tickets, it means that he's serious about a relationship
00:11:01If his parents bought the tickets...
00:11:04Oh, gotta go
00:11:08I am filling in as one of Santa's elves in the park
00:11:10And it takes me 20 minutes to get into those tights
00:11:13Thank you
00:11:15Oh, you're welcome
00:11:16See you soon
00:11:17Sorry
00:11:35Sorry, I had to get the funding application in for next year
00:11:39The university committee is being impossible as usual
00:11:42Is that hot cider?
00:11:44It was, 20 minutes ago
00:11:46Don't forget, we have the faculty Christmas party a week Thursday
00:11:49Franklin Collins is going to be there
00:11:51He's the committee chair and I'm hoping to get a word with him
00:11:54Who knew clinical biology could be so exciting?
00:11:57Who knew?
00:11:58How's your project going?
00:11:59I'm not sure yet
00:12:01There was just so much material in the archives
00:12:03I don't even know where to begin
00:12:04And if by some miracle I did know where to begin
00:12:07There's no way I'm going to finish by the deadline
00:12:09I think taking this project might have been a big mistake
00:12:14What do you have to do to get a drink around here?
00:12:20Dennis?
00:12:21Yeah?
00:12:22How about the trip?
00:12:24To see your parents?
00:12:26Yeah?
00:12:30Nothing
00:12:31Never mind
00:12:32I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:34I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:35I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:36I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:37I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:38I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:39I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:40I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:41I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:42I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:43I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:44I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:45I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:46I don't think I'm going to get a drink around here
00:12:47Oh, my God.
00:13:17Miss Cooper, you need anything?
00:13:24No, thank you, Reginata.
00:13:27I'm still trying to figure this all out.
00:13:29What, Christmas giving you some trouble, isn't it?
00:13:32There's just so much material here.
00:13:34I don't know where to start.
00:13:36Well, maybe I can help you here.
00:13:38You want some history of Christmas at the plaza?
00:13:43There you go.
00:13:44That was taken in 1968.
00:13:49That's you?
00:13:50Yeah, this was after the Thanksgiving Day parade.
00:13:53We'd just come in for high tea.
00:13:55See, everybody dressed up in those days.
00:13:58Who were you with?
00:14:00There was a girl I used to know.
00:14:01Anyway, I remember she loved the Christmas tree topper that year.
00:14:09It was her favorite color.
00:14:11It was bright blue, diamonds all around it.
00:14:15I promised her I'd get her her own someday.
00:14:17Did you?
00:14:18No, no.
00:14:22Life gets in the way sometimes, you know.
00:14:25But if you want to borrow that for your project.
00:14:28Actually, I don't think this is my project.
00:14:32I beg your pardon?
00:14:33Yeah, I don't think this is going to work out after all.
00:14:36I need to go talk to Amanda.
00:14:38You're not thinking of quitting, are you?
00:14:40It's probably for the best.
00:14:42Well, I hope you'll reconsider.
00:14:45Opportunities like this don't come along every day.
00:14:48Nobody regrets the ones they take, just the ones they don't.
00:14:52Anyway, I'm sure you'll make the right choice.
00:15:10Looks beautiful.
00:15:12Thanks.
00:15:14Plaza has so much great history, I figure it deserves the best, huh?
00:15:18So you're not the only one who respects the past.
00:15:22Look, Nick, I'm sorry.
00:15:25About what I said yesterday, I know you were just trying to help.
00:15:29Don't worry about it.
00:15:32So you're done for the day?
00:15:35Actually, I've decided to step away from the project.
00:15:40Seriously?
00:15:40I'm going to talk to the university about finding a replacement.
00:15:44That's too bad.
00:15:46I mean, I know Amanda will be really disappointed.
00:15:49I know, and I feel awful about it, but like you said, the plaza deserves the best, and I just,
00:15:56I don't think I'm the right person for this project.
00:16:00I'm sorry to hear that.
00:16:02It was nice to meet you, Jessica Cooper.
00:16:04And you too, Nick Pirelli.
00:16:10Oh, hey.
00:16:12How about a souvenir?
00:16:15Think of it as an early Christmas present.
00:16:16Merry Christmas.
00:16:20Merry Christmas.
00:16:25Merry Christmas.
00:16:27Merry Christmas.
00:16:27i'm sorry miss clark's in the middle of a very important call is there anything i can help you
00:16:54with no thank you i need to speak with her myself i'll wait beautiful isn't it i think this year's
00:17:06tree topper is my favorite i mean finiel dabre miss clark prefers we use a proper name i'm supposed
00:17:13to bring it downstairs to the decorating team but i kind of keep it myself it is beautiful
00:17:18you said this year's reginald showed me a photograph with a different tree topper
00:17:25how many have there been i guess as many as there have been christmas trees at the plaza
00:17:29and they've had a christmas tree here at the hotel ever since it opened in 1907
00:17:34it's a tradition i'll tell miss clark you're here uh no that's okay don't bother her
00:17:41all right well do you want me to give her a message for you yes please tell her
00:17:47tell her i found our christmas story
00:17:51so that's a dozen cherry tomatoes three almonds one bottle of champagne pink of course miss
00:18:00thompson will there be anything else my pleasure good morning miss cooper how can i help you today
00:18:06let it snow let it snow let it snow let it snow it doesn't show signs of stopping and i brought
00:18:12some corn for popping the lights are turned way down low let it snow let it snow let it snow
00:18:20when we finally kiss goodnight how i'll hate going out in the storm but if you really hold me tight
00:18:29all the way home all the way home i'll be warm the fire is slowly dying and my dear we're still
00:18:37goodbye but as long as you love me so let it snow let it snow let it snow
00:18:44please don't worry about this flurry we're warming our bungalow just listen for santa
00:18:58going ho ho ho let it snow let it snow let it snow
00:19:02and put one more in that corner over there needs a little christmas
00:19:13who's nick nick nick it's me alicia hi how are you uh fine been a while i know too long
00:19:29something i could do for you i heard you were decorating the plaza it's amazing congratulations
00:19:35thanks i would love to come and see it maybe we could grab a drink after
00:19:40hey listen i'm i'm really busy right now i gotta go oh all right well merry christmas
00:19:49yeah yeah merry christmas
00:19:51yes
00:20:00so
00:20:33Hey.
00:20:46I thought you were leaving.
00:20:48I might have been a bit hasty.
00:20:50Well, that's great.
00:20:51Yeah, that's good.
00:20:54What changed your mind?
00:20:56Well, did you know the Plaza has had a different finial d'Abra every Christmas for over a hundred years?
00:21:01Uh, what?
00:21:02Oh, Tree Topper.
00:21:03Ah, I did not know that.
00:21:05Yeah, each one is handmade and unique to that specific year.
00:21:08I did not know that either.
00:21:09This one, for example, is from 1949.
00:21:12See here?
00:21:14Signed by the artist, making it a priceless piece of socio-historic memorabilia.
00:21:17Who knows how many more of them are hidden away inside these boxes?
00:21:21Yeah, who knows?
00:21:22Nick, this is a major find.
00:21:26Each of these Tree Toppers represents an artist with an individual story.
00:21:30The cultural importance of the passage of time represented by the artisanal craftsmanship in this room is simply staggering.
00:21:36They make really nice Christmas ornaments, too.
00:21:38Are you just going to stand there or are you going to help?
00:21:43What would you like me to do?
00:21:47Grab a box.
00:21:48And look for Christmas.
00:21:53Okay.
00:22:02So why history?
00:22:04What do you mean?
00:22:04Well, you obviously love it, but where's the attraction?
00:22:08I think it's important to understand the way politics and social moors have impacted events throughout time.
00:22:13Come on, that sounds like a classroom lecture.
00:22:16What's the real reason?
00:22:19The real reason?
00:22:20Yeah.
00:22:25Please.
00:22:25My dad was in the diplomatic corps, so we moved around a lot when I was young.
00:22:35There was always a different town, a different school.
00:22:39I never knew where we were going to be or what was going to happen.
00:22:43That's pretty tough on a little kid.
00:22:45I started studying history.
00:22:47Felt safe.
00:22:49Because you always knew exactly what was going to happen next?
00:22:51When you can't depend on the future, there's something kind of comforting about the past.
00:22:58You still feel that way?
00:23:02Sometimes.
00:23:04Oh, I took the liberty of bringing you some fresh coffee.
00:23:08You've been down here for hours.
00:23:13Thank you, Reginald.
00:23:14I guess we lost track of time.
00:23:16Well, the grand lady reveals her secrets slowly, doesn't she?
00:23:20Huh?
00:23:21By the way, I'm glad you changed your mind.
00:23:25And I believe the work you're doing here is very important.
00:23:29I mean, this place means a lot to me.
00:23:32To all of us.
00:23:33Thank you, Reginald.
00:23:35Hey, look at this.
00:23:37What is it?
00:23:37I found one.
00:23:41It's beautiful.
00:23:43Ooh, that is magnificent, isn't it?
00:23:46Look at the fine work around the edges there.
00:23:49Takes years to learn that.
00:23:50That makes five we found so far.
00:23:52Yeah, only 10,000 more boxes to go through.
00:23:55Well, good thing there are two of you.
00:24:05Good thing.
00:24:06Yeah, so everyone else.
00:24:09Yeah, so I don't know, so what?
00:24:35It's New York!
00:24:37You look great.
00:24:38Right?
00:24:39Yeah.
00:24:40It's like stepping into a time machine in there.
00:24:42Every box I open is another piece of history, and Nick found some incredible photographs
00:24:47from 1922.
00:24:48Nick?
00:24:49Pushy, overbearing Nick.
00:24:50Oh, that wasn't really his fault.
00:24:52I overreacted.
00:24:53He's actually a very nice guy.
00:24:55Really?
00:24:56And you two are working together?
00:24:58Mm-hmm.
00:24:59Mm-hmm.
00:25:00Alone.
00:25:01I know what you're thinking, and you can stop thinking it.
00:25:06There's nothing going on between Nick and me except Christmas.
00:25:09Oh, gotta go.
00:25:11Santa's finished feeding the reindeer, and he hates it when his elves are late.
00:25:14Sorry about lunch.
00:25:15I'll grab a candy cane at work.
00:25:16Uh-uh.
00:25:17Hey, did you ever find out if Nick was single?
00:25:19Uncle?
00:25:20I don't care.
00:25:21Okay.
00:25:22I believe you.
00:25:23Do you believe you?
00:25:24Mm-hmm.
00:25:25�gm.
00:25:26Mmm.
00:25:27Uh-uh.
00:25:29Mole purchased.
00:25:30Do you believe you?
00:25:33Don't.
00:25:34I don't reallyago until Nick didn't make an hour to come see her in ì• ...
00:25:38m-m-m...
00:25:42Let's go.
00:26:12Let's go.
00:26:18Hi.
00:26:19Tell me you're not wearing that.
00:26:36Why not?
00:26:37You forgot.
00:26:41The faculty Christmas party.
00:26:45Of course I didn't forget.
00:26:46I was just getting ready.
00:26:48Come on in.
00:26:49I'll let you be a minute.
00:26:56How's your project going?
00:26:57It's actually pretty exciting.
00:26:59I think I might have a mystery on my hands.
00:27:01Uh-huh.
00:27:02Every year since 1907, the tree in the lobby of the plaza has had a different finial d'abra.
00:27:09A what?
00:27:10A tree topper.
00:27:11A tree topper.
00:27:12Oh.
00:27:13Interesting.
00:27:14That's not the interesting part.
00:27:15Look at the picture on the table.
00:27:17The top one.
00:27:19The Christmas tree?
00:27:21See?
00:27:22No tree topper.
00:27:23Fascinating.
00:27:24Isn't it?
00:27:25What happened to the tree topper and why that year?
00:27:28I don't know.
00:27:29Jess.
00:27:30We're gonna be late.
00:27:31Okay.
00:27:32I'm ready.
00:27:33Choose.
00:27:35Right.
00:27:37Meet you in the car.
00:27:42Meet you in the car.
00:28:12There's Franklin Collins.
00:28:17Come on.
00:28:18Let's go say hello.
00:28:19Uh, love to.
00:28:22Evening, Mr. Collins.
00:28:25Oh, Dennis!
00:28:27Well, I'm glad you made it.
00:28:29This is Dennis Park, one of our newest faculty members.
00:28:33I read your paper, Dennis.
00:28:35It was interesting.
00:28:37Very interesting.
00:28:38I'd like to talk to you some more about it.
00:28:39That would be great, sir.
00:28:45This is my, uh, Jessica Cooper.
00:28:48How do you do?
00:28:49Well, a pleasure to meet you, Jessica.
00:28:51You probably know most of the people here.
00:28:53I'm not...
00:28:54Oh, well, Jessica's an alum.
00:28:55Sociology and anthropology.
00:28:58What are you doing these days, dear?
00:29:00Jessica's working on a very important archival research project.
00:29:05Oh, on what subject?
00:29:06A history of the finial daubers at the plaza.
00:29:09Finial daubers?
00:29:12Uh, isn't that Christmas ornaments?
00:29:14That's right.
00:29:15How interesting.
00:29:18It's actually an important study from a cultural and historic point of view.
00:29:22That's good.
00:29:32Of course it is, dear.
00:29:37So, Dennis, uh, tell me.
00:29:38What are your plans?
00:29:39Uh, well, I have a little bit more work to do on this paper, but, uh...
00:29:40Oh, no.
00:29:41I think this draft that you did...
00:29:42I think it's...
00:29:43I think it's a great job.
00:29:45I think it's a great job.
00:29:46...I think it's a great job.
00:29:47Oh, no.
00:29:48I think it's a great job.
00:29:49Oh, no.
00:29:50I think it's a great job.
00:29:51I think it's a great job.
00:29:52And it's a great job.
00:29:53I think it's a great job.
00:29:54So, Dennis, tell me.
00:29:55What are your plans?
00:29:56Uh, well, I have a little bit more work to do on this paper, but...
00:29:57Oh, no, I think this draft that you did is...
00:29:59Ah, Jessica, did you have to bring up that whole Christmas decorations thing?
00:30:16Why?
00:30:16It's just I'm trying to impress Collins, and it doesn't sound very academic.
00:30:21Well, they asked.
00:30:23Anyway, he wants to see the rest of my research, but he's totally behind my proposal.
00:30:28He actually told me he's going to personally resubmit it to the committee himself.
00:30:32Can you believe it?
00:30:32That's great.
00:30:33Isn't it?
00:30:34Yeah.
00:30:35Wow, I mean, good party, right?
00:30:40You having fun?
00:30:41Actually, I'm a little tired.
00:30:43It's been a long day, and I'm...
00:30:45Oh, of course.
00:30:46I'm sorry.
00:30:48You've been at work all day.
00:30:49I should have thought of that.
00:30:51You want to go home?
00:30:53Would that be okay?
00:30:54Absolutely.
00:30:55Absolutely.
00:30:55I'll call you a car.
00:31:02I would go with you, but I really got to seal this deal with Collins.
00:31:05Oh, of course.
00:31:07You don't mind, do you?
00:31:09Me?
00:31:10No.
00:31:11Not at all.
00:31:13Thanks for understanding.
00:31:13How was your night?
00:31:32I've had better.
00:31:38Do you like Christmas songs?
00:31:39I could play one for you if you like.
00:31:40Maybe it'll cheer you up.
00:31:42Thanks.
00:31:42Thanks.
00:31:43Do you want anything special for Christmas?
00:31:48I'm going to go meet my boyfriend's parents.
00:31:50Oh, sounds serious.
00:31:52I'm not sure about that.
00:31:54Where is he right now?
00:31:56Back at that party.
00:31:59Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.
00:32:03You know what?
00:32:03Maybe I'm overreacting.
00:32:04I mean, it's not like you made me walk home.
00:32:07True.
00:32:07True.
00:32:08What if Cassidy's right?
00:32:10About what?
00:32:11What if I really am afraid of commitment?
00:32:12I mean, this is my usual pattern.
00:32:14I fall for a guy.
00:32:15He gets serious.
00:32:16I get nervous.
00:32:17I break it off.
00:32:18Cassidy's your boyfriend?
00:32:20No, Dennis is my boyfriend.
00:32:22Who's Cassidy?
00:32:23She's an elf.
00:32:26You know what?
00:32:27I changed my mind.
00:32:28I don't want to go home right now.
00:32:29I don't blame you.
00:32:30So, where to now?
00:32:37Happy holidays.
00:32:39Happy holidays.
00:32:39I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
00:32:56Just like the ones I used to know
00:33:04Miss Cooper.
00:33:06Miss Cooper.
00:33:08Good evening.
00:33:09Everything all right?
00:33:10I guess so.
00:33:11You're working late.
00:33:13Oh, well, sometimes I just like to stick around
00:33:16till everybody goes home at night
00:33:17or gets tucked into bed upstairs
00:33:19and then I just listen for a while.
00:33:22To what?
00:33:25To the sound of the grand lady sleeping.
00:33:28She snores sometimes, you know.
00:33:40What are you doing here?
00:33:42I'm having some trouble with the lights.
00:33:46Oh.
00:33:47Seems okay to me.
00:33:49Yeah, well, it's my first time decorating the plaza.
00:33:51It's kind of a game changer for my business.
00:33:53I don't want okay.
00:33:54I want perfect.
00:33:58Well, I better make my rounds.
00:34:02Good night, folks.
00:34:04Good night.
00:34:07What are you doing here?
00:34:08I need to find a missing tree topper.
00:34:10The one from 1969.
00:34:12There's still a lot of boxes to go through down there.
00:34:16A little overdressed for the records room?
00:34:19I was at a Christmas party.
00:34:21Must have been a nice party.
00:34:23You look great.
00:34:24Oh.
00:34:28So, how was the food?
00:34:31I always eat too much of those things.
00:34:33Oh, I didn't actually get any.
00:34:35You didn't get any?
00:34:36Why not?
00:34:38Bad timing.
00:34:39Huh.
00:34:42Well, if you're still hungry,
00:34:44and all places stays open late,
00:34:47I was going to go get something to eat.
00:34:49I grabbed some dinner.
00:34:49That's very nice of you, Nick.
00:34:53Really.
00:34:53But, um, the thing is...
00:34:55I know.
00:34:56I know.
00:34:57You have a boyfriend.
00:34:59Still got to eat.
00:35:02I feel about Italian.
00:35:07Well, it was my dad's business originally.
00:35:09Mostly party rentals.
00:35:10But when I took it over,
00:35:11I focused on Christmas.
00:35:13That's where the real money is.
00:35:15But between you and me,
00:35:17I do it for free.
00:35:18You love it that much?
00:35:20Oh, yeah.
00:35:20A house like a blank canvas to me.
00:35:22And there's that moment
00:35:23when you gather the family out front,
00:35:24you flip the switch,
00:35:25and the whole thing lights up
00:35:26with the look on their faces.
00:35:28That's Christmas.
00:35:29You decorate for your family, too?
00:35:31Mm-hmm.
00:35:32It's a mob scene.
00:35:33I got three brothers and two sisters,
00:35:35and they're all married,
00:35:35and they've all got kids.
00:35:36So, pressure's on.
00:35:37What about you?
00:35:39Anybody special?
00:35:41There was a couple years ago,
00:35:43but it didn't work out.
00:35:45Happens.
00:35:50So, what's your boyfriend do?
00:35:52Dennis?
00:35:53Mm-hmm.
00:35:53He's in clinical research
00:35:54at the university.
00:35:55Impressive.
00:35:56He's a very intelligent man.
00:35:58You're no slight yourself
00:35:59with all those degrees
00:36:00at the end of your name.
00:36:02I don't know about that.
00:36:05You're kidding me, right?
00:36:07When I first started out at university,
00:36:10I had all these really lofty goals,
00:36:12you know?
00:36:12I wanted to use my education
00:36:15to speak to the human condition,
00:36:16help people understand history,
00:36:18and make it relevant in their lives.
00:36:21Maybe make a difference in the world.
00:36:24And?
00:36:25And here I am,
00:36:28cataloging Christmas ornaments.
00:36:32Oh, I'm sorry.
00:36:33That's...
00:36:34I didn't...
00:36:35I didn't mean it to come out like that.
00:36:37I'm sorry.
00:36:38It's fine.
00:36:39It's fine.
00:36:39Don't worry about it.
00:36:41But you shouldn't be so hard
00:36:42on yourself, though.
00:36:43I know.
00:36:43I just always thought
00:36:45I'd be doing something
00:36:46more important with my life.
00:36:48I get that.
00:36:49But think about it this way.
00:36:51The storage room
00:36:52in the basement of the plaza.
00:36:54Imagine how many Christmas memories are there,
00:36:57just tucked away in all those boxes.
00:36:59You're part of that history now.
00:37:00And you're gonna bring happiness
00:37:02to who knows
00:37:03how many people this Christmas.
00:37:06What's more important than that?
00:37:07This is me.
00:37:26Hey. Nice place.
00:37:32Thanks. My mom and dad were in real estate, so I got it when they retired.
00:37:37I see a big blank canvas.
00:37:39In case you haven't noticed, I've been a bit busy lately, so I'm sorry I haven't quite gotten around to decorating out here yet.
00:37:47Well, if you need some help, I got a guy.
00:37:56Hmm. Does he have any references?
00:38:01Not in my whole life.
00:38:03I'll think about it.
00:38:06Good night.
00:38:07Good night.
00:38:26Good night.
00:38:42Good night.
00:38:45We've divided it into decades from the turn of the 20th century to now.
00:39:11Each section features photos of the ten tree toppers with stories about the artists,
00:39:15and we include a brief history of that decade's most important Christmas events at the plaza.
00:39:21Wedding, party, celebrity guests.
00:39:24Jessica, I must tell you, I'm impressed.
00:39:27This is wonderful. It's the perfect balance of history and Christmas.
00:39:34Go back, please.
00:39:37Of course.
00:39:38There, stop there.
00:39:40What's that?
00:39:41That's the one I couldn't find.
00:39:43There's no record of there having ever been a tree topper in 1969.
00:39:48That's impossible.
00:39:49It's a hotel tradition.
00:39:51That's what I thought, but...
00:39:52We can't have a gap in the hotel Christmas timeline.
00:39:56It makes us appear incompetent.
00:39:59I'm not sure what I can do about it.
00:40:02With something, I hope.
00:40:03This is your problem, Jessica.
00:40:08You need to fix it.
00:40:18So, why don't you just fake it?
00:40:20Go buy some other tree topper and paint it.
00:40:22Who's gonna know?
00:40:23I can't believe you're asking me that question.
00:40:25I'm gonna know.
00:40:26I'm a historian, Cassidy.
00:40:27I search for the truth.
00:40:29I'm not gonna lie about something as important as Christmas.
00:40:33You know I'm not really an elf, though, right?
00:40:36Sorry.
00:40:37I think Nick's starting to rub off on me.
00:40:39Nick again?
00:40:40Two Cocos, please.
00:40:42He gave me a Christmas pep talk at dinner the other night.
00:40:44It helped a lot.
00:40:45How nice for you.
00:40:47Make mine a double.
00:40:48You know, this isn't fair.
00:40:50What do you mean?
00:40:50I mean, I'm out here terminally single, and you've got two guys all to yourself.
00:40:55I don't have two guys, Cass.
00:40:57I have a boyfriend, and I have a co-worker.
00:41:01Uh, so Nick's just your co-worker.
00:41:04That's all.
00:41:05Uh-huh.
00:41:05And have you told your boyfriend about your co-worker?
00:41:08Well, no.
00:41:10It hasn't come up in this conversation.
00:41:12Hmm.
00:41:13Right there.
00:41:14Honestly, Cassidy, the way your mind works...
00:41:17Oh, do you want this receipt, or can I have it?
00:41:20My accountant says that I can deduct Christmas-related beverages as research.
00:41:29What?
00:41:41Hi.
00:41:42Jessica, guess what?
00:41:44They approved my grant.
00:41:46Oh, that's wonderful news, Dennis.
00:41:48I'm so happy for...
00:41:49Listen, I got an important question I want to ask you.
00:41:51Okay.
00:41:52Not over the phone.
00:41:53Meet me at Crawford's.
00:41:54Six o'clock.
00:41:55All right.
00:41:56Great.
00:41:57See you then.
00:42:05I thought I might find you down here.
00:42:07You okay?
00:42:09Look at this.
00:42:10Receipt?
00:42:11In 1969, the Plaza Tree didn't have a Phenille d'Abra.
00:42:14Really?
00:42:15Nobody seems to know why.
00:42:18Our full Christmas boutique received from the Plaza Hotel.
00:42:22Yeah.
00:42:22It's for the treetopper they ordered that year, but they didn't put it on the tree.
00:42:26Well, maybe they didn't get it.
00:42:27Or maybe it's still there.
00:42:30We're sorry.
00:42:31The number you have reached...
00:42:32Number's out of service.
00:42:33Well, they used to be down in the East Village.
00:42:38We're here to go check it out, see if they're still in business.
00:42:40It's been so long.
00:42:41It's probably a waste of time.
00:42:43Well, you want to find that missing Phenille d'Abra, don't you?
00:42:46I gotta meet with some suppliers down there anyways.
00:42:48Come on.
00:42:52Phenille d'Abra.
00:42:52Hey, what are you waiting for?
00:42:57Christmas?
00:43:14Whoa, look at this one.
00:43:16Look at the detail work.
00:43:18It must have taken them days to set this up.
00:43:19That is beautiful.
00:43:21Come on, let's take a picture.
00:43:22Give me your phone.
00:43:23No, it's okay.
00:43:24Come on.
00:43:25Christmas only comes once a year.
00:43:41Chestnuts.
00:43:43Come on.
00:43:47Don't you just love roasted chestnuts?
00:43:49Believe it or not, I've never had any.
00:43:51Seriously?
00:43:52I actually didn't think they were a real thing.
00:43:54I thought they were just from that song.
00:43:56Well, you are in for an authentic Christmas tree.
00:43:59Two, please.
00:44:02Why did we park so far away?
00:44:05Did we?
00:44:06We've been walking for blocks.
00:44:08Well, yeah, but then we got to see the skaters of 30 Rock and the merry-go-round at Bryant Park
00:44:11and the Christmas windows and the big Christmas tree.
00:44:12If I didn't know better, I'd say you did this on purpose.
00:44:16Hey.
00:44:17The store.
00:44:18The plaza tree topper.
00:44:20I knew I heard this story before.
00:44:39It's part of my family history.
00:44:41Back when my grandpa used to own the business, we buy most of the stuff.
00:44:45But back in the day, I had an uncle who worked here.
00:44:48He used to design and build everything by hand.
00:44:51So this would have been a really important commission for him.
00:44:53Well, how so?
00:44:54Well, the plaza would usually sell replicas of their annual tree topper in the gift shop.
00:44:59So that would have been a big boost for the family business.
00:45:01You said would have been?
00:45:03What happened?
00:45:04Nobody really knows.
00:45:05Apparently, my uncle just lost interest and didn't finish it.
00:45:09But do you know why?
00:45:10No.
00:45:11He stopped designing and never made another Christmas decoration.
00:45:15He quit the whole family business.
00:45:18No.
00:45:19That's him.
00:45:24Our Brookwater.
00:45:26Yep.
00:45:27That's my uncle.
00:45:29How long has he been gone?
00:45:31Gone?
00:45:32No, he's not gone.
00:45:33You mean your uncle's still alive?
00:45:37Yeah.
00:45:38I thought you knew.
00:45:39Uncle Reggie works at the plaza.
00:45:43Reginald Brookwater?
00:45:45Right.
00:45:45He's the head bellman.
00:45:52Can we go?
00:45:55We need to talk.
00:46:03So, how'd you find out?
00:46:08Your nephew told me.
00:46:09He showed me some of your other pieces.
00:46:11You're a wonderful artist.
00:46:13What exactly are you looking for?
00:46:16Your tree topper.
00:46:17The one you started to make in 1969.
00:46:20I was hoping maybe you still had it for my Christmas at the Plaza display.
00:46:24I'm afraid not.
00:46:25Well, could you draw one for me?
00:46:27I mean, based on your original design, of course.
00:46:29That was a long time ago.
00:46:31I left that life behind me.
00:46:33I understand that, but I really need it to complete the archive.
00:46:36Otherwise, we're missing an important part of the history of...
00:46:39Miss Cooper, I really appreciate what you're trying to do here, but I can't help you.
00:46:42Now, if you'll excuse me, we have a full hotel this week.
00:46:56So, what are you going to do?
00:46:57Well, I can't force the man to make me a Christmas ornament.
00:47:00I guess I'll just have to tell Amanda that we're missing one, and that's all there is to it.
00:47:04Think she's going to be okay with that?
00:47:06I doubt it.
00:47:06She doesn't strike me as somebody who sees failure as an option, but I just don't know what else to do.
00:47:11Well, why don't we drown your sorrows in a big plate of linguine and clams?
00:47:17I can't.
00:47:18Oh, come on. It doesn't have to be linguine.
00:47:20No, I mean, I have dinner plans with...
00:47:22Ah, Dennis. Got it.
00:47:24Yeah. He said he's got something very important to talk to me about.
00:47:28Well, you want to get in the way of that.
00:47:32Nick.
00:47:32Okay. Don't worry about it. See you later.
00:47:41Jessica, any progress on our missing finial dog?
00:47:49Actually, Amanda, I'm not having much luck. I thought I'd located it, but I...
00:47:52Well, I have faith in you. I know you don't want to let me down.
00:47:56Or the plaza.
00:47:58No, of course not. But there's not...
00:47:59So I can safely assume that you will continue your search until you find it.
00:48:04Excuse me.
00:48:05Okay. No pushing. No shoving.
00:48:27Everybody gets a chance to see Santa.
00:48:30Here you go.
00:48:31Hey, I'll be right back. Stay in line, or we'll get on the naughty list.
00:48:37Just kidding.
00:48:41Hi.
00:48:42Thought I'd stop by for inspection on the way.
00:48:45It's new.
00:48:46Oh, very nice. What's the occasion?
00:48:49Dinner with Dennis. He said he's got something important he wanted to ask me.
00:48:52Well, what do you think it is?
00:48:54I don't know.
00:48:56Do you think he's going to ask you to marry him?
00:48:58Cassidy, that's the last thing I think he's going to do.
00:49:01No! It makes sense.
00:49:03Almost your two-year dating anniversary, you're going to meet his parents.
00:49:07You think?
00:49:08I do!
00:49:09See what I did there?
00:49:11And if he does, I will officially take back every bad thing I've ever said about him.
00:49:16Aren't we kind of jumping to conclusions here?
00:49:19Maybe. But maybe not.
00:49:20Who knows?
00:49:22This might just be one of the best nights of your life.
00:49:33Well, here you are.
00:49:36Hi.
00:49:38How was your day?
00:49:39Actually, I'm having one of the...
00:49:40That's great. Okay, so listen.
00:49:43I've been trying to figure out the right way to ask you this for a while now, so I'm just going to come right out and say it.
00:49:52Jessica, I trust you more than anyone I've ever known.
00:49:56So I would like to ask you if you would work with me on my research project for next year.
00:50:14What?
00:50:16I told you I got the grant, so you could give up that Christmas project and we could work together instead. Wouldn't that be great?
00:50:23That's what you wanted to ask me?
00:50:26To write a paper with you?
00:50:30Well, yeah. What did you think?
00:50:35Something else.
00:50:39Like what?
00:50:42Something I thought I didn't want.
00:50:47Jessica, you're not really making any sense.
00:50:51No.
00:50:53I suppose I'm not.
00:50:55Excuse me.
00:50:56Where are you going?
00:50:58I think I need some fresh air.
00:51:02I don't know.
00:51:32Hey.
00:51:41So, how was your dinner?
00:51:44I don't want to talk about it.
00:51:47Okay.
00:51:48Then we won't talk about it.
00:51:50Does your offer still send?
00:51:52I mean, about the linguine?
00:51:55I got a better idea.
00:51:58I know a place that serves up a good old-fashioned Christmas spirit.
00:52:01They're open all night.
00:52:12So, you want to talk about it yet?
00:52:14Not really, no.
00:52:16Okay.
00:52:17It was all my fault.
00:52:18I jumped to conclusions.
00:52:19I don't want to marry Dennis yet anyway.
00:52:22You don't?
00:52:23No.
00:52:23How are you supposed to know if you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody after only two years?
00:52:28Well, I've heard it's been done in only two weeks.
00:52:34Yeah, here we are.
00:52:35Nick, this is beautiful.
00:52:48This must have taken you days.
00:52:51Don't you ever get tired of Christmas decorating?
00:52:54Nah.
00:52:56Look up there.
00:52:57See, some jobs I do for money, and some jobs I do for love.
00:53:06See the white star?
00:53:09That's how you can tell I did this one for love.
00:53:11Oh, I almost forgot.
00:53:17I have an extra one you can use.
00:53:24What's this for?
00:53:26I'm about to find out.
00:53:31Nicky, you're late.
00:53:33I know, Ma.
00:53:34Sorry, it was working.
00:53:35Hello.
00:53:36Hi.
00:53:37Ma, this is Jessica.
00:53:38Jessica, this is my mom.
00:53:39Very nice to meet you, Mrs. Farrelly.
00:53:41Call me Lana.
00:53:42Everybody else does.
00:53:44You've got your sweaters on.
00:53:46Great.
00:53:47Well, come on in.
00:53:47We've got work to do.
00:53:49Oh, thanks.
00:53:51What is all this?
00:53:52Oh, it's just a little something my family puts together every year.
00:53:55Do our Christmas shopping early, and wrap all the presents to give to a couple of local charities
00:54:00so everybody gets Christmas.
00:54:01Wow, that's really nice.
00:54:04Everybody.
00:54:05Hey.
00:54:06Everybody.
00:54:07Look who finally showed up.
00:54:09Hi.
00:54:10Mickey.
00:54:11Mickey.
00:54:12Hi.
00:54:13And this is Jessica.
00:54:14Mickey.
00:54:15Hey.
00:54:15Jessica, this is everybody.
00:54:17Hi, Jessica.
00:54:18Hi.
00:54:19Okay, you get to work.
00:54:21Jessica, come with me.
00:54:24Have fun.
00:54:25Hi.
00:54:26Welcome to Cookie Command Center.
00:54:32We wrap all these up and take them over to the veterans' home on Clark Street.
00:54:36You do this every year?
00:54:38Oh, it's no big deal.
00:54:40We have so much, it seems like the right thing to do.
00:54:44So, how do you and my Nikki know each other?
00:54:47Oh, we've been kind of working together at the plaza.
00:54:50Oh.
00:54:51Only work?
00:54:53We're just friends.
00:54:55Well, you must be a pretty special friend.
00:54:58My son hasn't brought anybody home for Christmas in years.
00:55:01Not since he and Alicia...
00:55:02Well, in years.
00:55:06It's okay.
00:55:07He told me about her.
00:55:09Oh.
00:55:10Did he tell you she broke his heart?
00:55:14How's it going in here?
00:55:17Well, don't expect any miracles.
00:55:18I haven't made cookies since I was a kid.
00:55:21They say it's like riding a bike.
00:55:22You never really forget how.
00:55:25Okay, everybody.
00:55:27It's showtime.
00:55:29How do we have to?
00:55:31Oh, come on, Nikki.
00:55:32You know it's a family tradition.
00:55:34Let's go.
00:55:35Come on, let's do this.
00:55:37I'm sorry about this.
00:55:39What's a tradition?
00:55:42I saw three ships come sailing in
00:55:45On Christmas Day in the morning
00:55:55And now you know why I married him.
00:55:58Okay.
00:55:59Our final singer in this year's Christmas karaoke will be...
00:56:05Jessica.
00:56:06Jessica.
00:56:06No, I can't.
00:56:09Really, I'm not good at this sort of thing.
00:56:11Oh, Nikki.
00:56:12Why don't you help her?
00:56:14All right.
00:56:15All right.
00:56:16All right.
00:56:26Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.
00:56:31Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
00:56:35Hey!
00:56:36Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way.
00:56:40Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
00:56:45You did that on purpose.
00:56:52I'm sure I have no idea what you're talking about.
00:57:10You break the vote, so Jessica and I have to sing together.
00:57:12Oh, Nikki, what a terrible thing to accuse your mother of doing.
00:57:16Shame on you.
00:57:17Okay.
00:57:20Night, Mom.
00:57:25I had such fun tonight.
00:57:28I hope we'll see you again during the holidays.
00:57:30But I imagine you have plans.
00:57:33Actually, I do.
00:57:34You don't seem very happy about it.
00:57:38You know what, Lana?
00:57:39I'm not.
00:57:41Well, Christmas isn't just about cookies and sing-alongs.
00:57:45It's also about reflecting on the past year,
00:57:48where we are, where we're going.
00:57:51Maybe this is that kind of Christmas for you.
00:57:59Merry Christmas.
00:58:00Merry Christmas.
00:58:01Merry Christmas.
00:58:04Sorry about that.
00:58:17My family gets a little crazy sometimes.
00:58:19Are you kidding?
00:58:20I loved them.
00:58:22My mom really liked you, too.
00:58:23I could tell.
00:58:24She made me feel pretty special.
00:58:26She said you hadn't brought anybody home for Christmas in a long time.
00:58:31Let me guess.
00:58:31She mentioned Alicia.
00:58:35Just once.
00:58:38My mom talks too much sometimes.
00:58:42Alicia and I were engaged
00:58:44until she decided there was no real future with a guy who decorates Christmas trees.
00:58:49I'm sorry.
00:58:51It's all right.
00:58:52I should be grateful, I guess.
00:58:54That's a very healthy attitude.
00:58:55Well, she dumped me at Christmas.
00:58:59So every year, instead of thinking about it, I decorated.
00:59:02Nothing like a heartbreak to really help your business take off.
00:59:12Uh-oh.
00:59:13What is it?
00:59:14Looks like we gotta take a detour.
00:59:16How about now?
00:59:25Still off.
00:59:28I don't get it.
00:59:30Fuses are all working.
00:59:31The bulbs are all fine.
00:59:35Ah, wait a sec.
00:59:37Primary connective conductor system isn't achieving maximum wattage polarity due to an oxygen breach.
00:59:42I'm sorry?
00:59:44Somebody pulled out the plug.
00:59:45Oh.
00:59:50It's beautiful, Nick.
00:59:52Thanks.
00:59:54You know, this place used to be a nightclub.
00:59:57Really?
00:59:58Uh-huh.
00:59:58It's called the Persian Room.
01:00:00It's one of the most elegant places in the city.
01:00:02Sinatra used to sing here.
01:00:04Who?
01:00:06You're kidding, right?
01:00:07A little.
01:00:09And this place right here, this used to be the dance floor.
01:00:12My grandparents met here.
01:00:14Really?
01:00:15Mm-hmm.
01:00:16It was Christmas Eve.
01:00:18She was a nurse, and he was away on shore leave.
01:00:21And he asked her to dance.
01:00:23Like this.
01:00:25And they danced together all night.
01:00:27And when the sun came up, they made a promise to each other that when he got back from the war, they would never be apart again.
01:00:35And they kept that promise the rest of their lives.
01:00:38And so I come here every year on Christmas Eve, and I have a glass of champagne in their honor.
01:00:44That's a very special Christmas tradition.
01:00:49Look, I know you don't like to think about the future, but what are you doing on Christmas Eve?
01:00:57Nick.
01:00:57I'm sorry.
01:00:58I'm sorry.
01:00:59I'm sorry.
01:01:00I thought...
01:01:00You're a wonderful person, really, but I can't do this.
01:01:06I'm sorry.
01:01:07I have to go.
01:01:07I have to go.
01:01:31Uh, sorry, we're closed.
01:01:40Uncle Reggie, what are you doing here?
01:01:43I came to find something.
01:01:45Oh, yeah? What?
01:01:47You gonna let me in or you gonna make me stand out here in the cold all night?
01:01:50Uh, sorry.
01:01:51Well, you've done some nice work here, Jeremy.
01:02:03Thanks, Uncle Reggie.
01:02:05Yeah.
01:02:06I mean, the place looks pretty good.
01:02:13I'm glad you like it.
01:02:17Well, look, look at that.
01:02:19My old workbench is still here.
01:02:23Yeah, Dad liked it.
01:02:24Said it reminded him of you.
01:02:26It's our internet order desk now.
01:02:28Well, that is something.
01:02:30Yeah.
01:02:31Could you give me a hand?
01:02:33Yeah, just put it.
01:02:35Well, okay.
01:02:40What are we doing?
01:02:46I'm opening a doorway to the past.
01:02:51Doorway to the past?
01:02:52Yes.
01:02:53And the past shall set us free.
01:03:00What's in there?
01:03:02Well, I told you I had to pick something up here.
01:03:04Yes.
01:03:08Here we go.
01:03:13What is that?
01:03:14Oh, this is a little bit of unfinished business.
01:03:24Oh, wow.
01:03:25How long has that been in there?
01:03:30Oh, close to 50 years.
01:03:35Do me a favor.
01:03:37Put on a big pot of hot coffee and crank up some Christmas music and leave me be for a couple hours.
01:03:46Okay.
01:03:47You've got some work to do.
01:03:55And alternate the larger and smaller panels along the outside, so it creates a flow-through.
01:04:01Don't forget to leave some room for a couple trees.
01:04:05Hi.
01:04:06Hi.
01:04:07I wasn't sure you'd be here.
01:04:11We're a team, right?
01:04:13At least I thought so.
01:04:15Nick.
01:04:16Just let me finish.
01:04:18About the other night, I didn't mean for that to happen.
01:04:23That's not true.
01:04:23I meant for that to happen, but I was out of line, and I'm sorry.
01:04:27No, Nick.
01:04:28I'm sorry, too.
01:04:29Look.
01:04:32I'd be lying if I said I didn't care about you.
01:04:34I do, but Dennis and I have been together almost two years.
01:04:39I'm going to go to Florida to meet his parents.
01:04:43Sounds fun.
01:04:46The thing is, I'm in a relationship, and I can't let my feelings for you get in the way.
01:04:55Mine either, huh?
01:04:57Nick, don't say that.
01:04:58I'm sorry.
01:05:00I just, I promised myself I wouldn't be a sore loser, and I guess that's a little easier said than done.
01:05:10I should get back to work.
01:05:15Wait.
01:05:15I still have your Christmas sweater.
01:05:24Better keep it.
01:05:25I hear it gets cold in Florida at night.
01:05:38Dennis.
01:05:38My parents have arranged a car to pick us up at the Miami airport, and then we'll meet them for dinner at this...
01:05:45Oh, oh, oh.
01:05:47Sorry.
01:05:48That's okay.
01:05:49Dennis, you said you had something you wanted to talk about.
01:05:53Right.
01:05:55The thing is, I was thinking about the other night.
01:05:58What about it?
01:05:59I was thinking about...
01:06:01why you left.
01:06:03If you don't want to write the paper with me, I understand.
01:06:08It's not about the paper.
01:06:10It's not.
01:06:19Who bought the tickets?
01:06:21What do you mean?
01:06:22For a trip to Florida.
01:06:24Who bought the plane tickets?
01:06:26My parents.
01:06:27It's only fair.
01:06:28It was their idea.
01:06:29Why?
01:06:29Why?
01:06:33Dennis.
01:06:36You're a very nice guy.
01:06:38You're smart, and I know you mean well, but...
01:06:41I need more than that.
01:06:47What kind of more?
01:06:50We've been together two years.
01:06:52Almost two years.
01:06:54Right.
01:06:55Almost two years.
01:06:57I thought I didn't want a commitment because that meant thinking about the future, and that was scary.
01:07:03But I've seen what the future can look like, and I'm not scared anymore.
01:07:10Are you talking about marriage?
01:07:15I don't know exactly what I'm talking about, Dennis.
01:07:19But whatever it is, I know it's not this.
01:07:25Wait.
01:07:27Are you breaking up with me?
01:07:28I'm not sure there was anything to break up.
01:07:32Are you sure about this?
01:07:34I am.
01:07:42I'm...
01:07:42I'm sorry.
01:07:44I...
01:07:44I guess I always knew this was going to happen.
01:07:48I just...
01:07:48I didn't want to admit it.
01:07:50Take care of yourself, Dennis.
01:07:53You too.
01:07:55Merry Christmas.
01:07:56Merry Christmas.
01:07:58Merry Christmas.
01:07:58Merry Christmas.
01:08:26Merry Christmas.
01:08:27Merry Christmas.
01:08:27Merry Christmas.
01:08:28Merry Christmas.
01:08:30Merry Christmas.
01:08:30Merry Christmas.
01:08:31Merry Christmas.
01:08:34Oh, Miss Cooper.
01:08:37I have a package for you.
01:08:40It was left here sometime last night with your name on it.
01:08:44I didn't see a card or anything.
01:08:52I know who sent it.
01:08:56Oh, I thought maybe you'd like it.
01:08:58But you said...
01:09:00I did.
01:09:01I stopped making things like that a long time ago.
01:09:04You never said why you quit.
01:09:08Gloves.
01:09:09It was 1969.
01:09:16Her name was Marie, and I was going to marry her.
01:09:19And I was making the treetopper that year in her honor, and I was going to propose to
01:09:25her on Christmas Eve on Christmas Eve, but her parents didn't approve of us.
01:09:29For me, actually.
01:09:31And so they thought of me as someone who made Christmas decorations, and what kind of life
01:09:36could I provide for their daughter?
01:09:38And so they made us stop seeing each other.
01:09:42And every time I looked at that thing, it reminded me of her, and I couldn't throw it away.
01:09:48So I hid it and tried to forget about it, like it never even existed at all.
01:09:54And you never made anything again?
01:09:55Well, my heart wasn't in it anymore.
01:09:59You know, I made things with love, I guess, and I guess I just stopped believing in that.
01:10:06So why are you giving this to me?
01:10:11Working at the Plaza all these years, I've seen honeymooners and newlyweds and proposals
01:10:18and weddings, and then watching this Christmas, you and Nick together, I thought,
01:10:25maybe one shouldn't give up on love.
01:10:29How can we be in love?
01:10:31Nick and I barely know each other.
01:10:33We just met.
01:10:34Yes, but you met him at this hotel, and you know what we say around here.
01:10:41Nothing unimportant ever happens at the Plaza.
01:10:48And run another string of lights through there.
01:10:53I don't want the place to sparkle.
01:10:55Nick.
01:10:59Alicia.
01:11:04What are you doing here?
01:11:06When I heard your voice the other day, it brought back so many memories, so I'm glad I'd come and say hi.
01:11:11Why?
01:11:13How are you doing?
01:11:15Exhausted.
01:11:15I just finished a really intense Spain class.
01:11:17You've done a great job here, Nick.
01:11:19It's beautiful.
01:11:20Thanks.
01:11:22This is going to open up so many possibilities for you.
01:11:25I hope so.
01:11:27I have always been very proud of you.
01:11:30You know?
01:11:33Missed you, Nick.
01:11:35Miss us.
01:11:36Hey, what are you doing?
01:11:47What does it look like?
01:11:49At least we've been over for a long time.
01:11:52I know, but that's in the past.
01:11:54I know.
01:11:56I'm sorry, but I think that's where I should stay.
01:12:01I feel like I gotta get back to work.
01:12:04Merry Christmas.
01:12:06Merry Christmas.
01:12:08Merry Christmas.
01:12:09Have yourself a merry little Christmas
01:12:19Let your heart be light
01:12:25From now on
01:12:31Our troubles will be out of sight
01:12:35Through the years
01:12:44We all will be together
01:12:48If the fates allow
01:12:53Hang a shining star
01:13:00Up on the highest bar
01:13:06And have your seat
01:13:13A merry little Christmas
01:13:19The plaza has many stories to tell
01:13:29Especially around the holidays
01:13:31And this year
01:13:32With this wonderful
01:13:34History of Christmas display
01:13:36We hope to share some of them
01:13:39With all of you
01:13:40Please welcome
01:13:42The very talented historian
01:13:45Who put all of this together for us
01:13:47Jessica Cooper
01:13:49Thank you so much
01:13:57Such an honor to have been entrusted
01:14:00With the legacy of the plaza hotel
01:14:02But I also want to acknowledge
01:14:04Another very important part of that legacy
01:14:06My wonderful friend
01:14:08Reginald Brookwater
01:14:10Who generously brought us
01:14:12A long lost piece of history
01:14:13From a Christmas past
01:14:15Christmas is
01:14:25Christmas is
01:14:33A time for celebration
01:14:35But also
01:14:38Maybe a time for reflection
01:14:40Too
01:14:40Not just the history of all of this
01:14:44But the history of all of us
01:14:46These beautiful decorations
01:14:49Are an important part of the holidays
01:14:51But
01:14:52I don't think it's the decorations
01:14:54That make Christmas memories
01:14:56It's the decorating
01:14:58It's the coming together
01:15:01To put up a tree
01:15:02Hang some lights
01:15:04Make cookies
01:15:05Even sing Christmas songs
01:15:06Sometimes badly
01:15:09I
01:15:11I
01:15:11I guess what I'm trying to say is
01:15:14It's not just what we do
01:15:16That makes the holidays special
01:15:18It's
01:15:18It's what we are to each other
01:15:21And it's what's in our hearts
01:15:23That makes us all a part
01:15:25Of the history of Christmas
01:15:26Thank you
01:15:29Thank you
01:15:38Oh, Miss Cooper, thank you.
01:16:06No, don't thank me, thank you.
01:16:08Oh, thank you for giving me back my art.
01:16:12I called my nephew this morning and I'm going to start making Christmas decorations again.
01:16:18That's the best gift you could have given me.
01:16:21Great speech, kiddo.
01:16:32Excuse me.
01:16:35Reggie.
01:16:37Marie.
01:16:38I was hoping to find you.
01:16:40What are you doing here?
01:16:42How did you...
01:16:43I read in the paper that they were having a party about the history of Christmas tree toppers.
01:16:51I thought I'd take a chance.
01:16:54I hoped you'd be here.
01:16:56Oh.
01:16:57Was that going to be mine?
01:17:06Yeah.
01:17:08It's beautiful.
01:17:09It sure is.
01:17:11That was a nice speech.
01:17:39Uh, I'm glad you could make it.
01:17:41I wouldn't have missed it for the world.
01:17:43You're alone?
01:17:45Uh, yeah.
01:17:46I thought maybe you'd bring your friend.
01:17:48Who?
01:17:50Come on, Nick.
01:17:52You know who.
01:17:53What are you talking about?
01:17:54Uh, I saw you kiss her the other day.
01:17:58Right in that room.
01:17:59Oh, you saw...
01:18:02You saw that?
01:18:03No, no, no, no, no.
01:18:04It's okay.
01:18:05It's no big deal.
01:18:06No, no, really.
01:18:06It's no big deal.
01:18:08That was Alicia.
01:18:08That was my ex.
01:18:10She heard I was here and she was trying to...
01:18:12I told her I wasn't interested and she left.
01:18:17Jess, I thought you understood how I felt about you.
01:18:23I'm sorry.
01:18:24No, no, no.
01:18:25I shouldn't be the one apologizing.
01:18:26You have a boyfriend.
01:18:29Actually, I don't.
01:18:32But what about Dennis?
01:18:33Dennis and I just came to the end of our relationship.
01:18:39Well, it's not because of me, I hope.
01:18:41No.
01:18:43Because of me.
01:18:46Congratulations.
01:18:47Thanks.
01:18:52Look, it's Christmas.
01:18:54It's an emotional season for a lot of people and we just met.
01:18:59Maybe we should take a step back and take a breath, get some perspective.
01:19:05Yeah, sure.
01:19:06Uh-huh.
01:19:08I guess, uh, let's do that.
01:19:10Let's...
01:19:11Let's...
01:19:12I-I better go in my reindeer's dog park.
01:19:19Huh.
01:19:23Merry Christmas, Jessica.
01:19:24Jessica, you've done a remarkable job.
01:19:38Everyone is having such a wonderful time.
01:19:40Almost everyone.
01:19:44And what are you doing for the holiday?
01:19:58Actually, I've had a sudden change of plans.
01:20:01My mom's still on her cruise, so I'm...
01:20:03I'm gonna go skiing with my friend and her family for Christmas.
01:20:07Well, I hope you have a nice time.
01:20:09I prefer my eyes in a martini glass.
01:20:11I wish you would reconsider our offer.
01:20:16The plaza could use a permanent historian.
01:20:20I appreciate that, but I...
01:20:22I'm gonna put my degrees to use another way.
01:20:25I'm taking a teaching position at a school down in the village.
01:20:29Investing in the future.
01:20:31Well done.
01:20:32This is for you, from all of us.
01:20:38Merry Christmas.
01:20:39Thank you, Kenny.
01:20:40Merry Christmas.
01:20:41Merry Christmas.
01:20:55Sad to see her go, Miss Clark.
01:21:00It's Christmas, Kenny.
01:21:02You may call me Amanda.
01:21:08Thank you, Amanda.
01:21:13I'll go back to work now, Miss Clark.
01:21:32I'll go back to work now.
01:21:42And I'll go back to work now, Miss Clark.
01:21:46And I'll go back to work now.
01:21:47Go.
01:21:48The whole tree comes here.
01:21:49It's so nice to see her go.
01:21:50It's in the world.
01:21:50So we'll go back to work now.
01:21:51I'll go back to work now, Miss Clark.
01:21:52be right down hi hey I'm almost ready I appreciate this so much gas you sure I'm not imposing with
01:22:20my family forget about it the more the merrier besides I can't have my bestie spending Christmas
01:22:26alone oh any word for Nick no nothing I guess stepping back a bit meant saying goodbye well
01:22:35you're better off without him besides it's obvious that you can decorate a house on your own
01:22:40huh the outside it looks great I mean it's a little over the top but I'm an elf what do I know
01:22:46I didn't decorate the outside what
01:22:49if you didn't do this then who did
01:23:12is this a private tradition or can anybody join please
01:23:35tell me how did you get all those lights on my house without me knowing about it
01:23:44kid me I decorated the plaza hotel this year house a piece of cake
01:23:48show me again where your grandparents danced
01:24:02so does this mean you're free for Christmas
01:24:13what do you have in mind
01:24:16house full of family there's gonna be presents and food and a lot of noise though so you gotta
01:24:21be really into Christmas to enjoy it
01:24:23I could give it a try if it doesn't work out we should think of the future
01:24:29there's always next Christmas Christmas after that
01:24:33Christmas after that
01:24:36Christmas Christmas Christmas
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