Many thanks to those hearty souls who greeted us during our promotional event at Granite Run Mall last night.

I was on hand, along with columnist Gil Spencer, sports columnist Jack McCaffery, publisher Frank Gothie and staff writer John Roman. It was honor to be joined by Capt. Jose Santiago of the Chester Salvation Army, as well as his delightful daughter.

Several people made donations to our annual holiday drive, the Merry Christmas Fund. All proceeds benefit the operations of the Salvation Army and their crucial work in the city.

If you’d like to contribute, there’s still plenty of time. However, do not mail contributions to the Daily Times. Mail checks or money orders only to: Salvation Army, Box 1032, Brookhaven, PA 19015.

Also, contributors can make a donation online by logging on to the Salvation Army Web site, www.salvationarmychester.org.

Special thanks to the gentleman wearing the West End Boat Club, who regaled us on his memories of Reyburn’s Tavern in Chadds Ford and its 100-year-old proprietor, who recently passed away.

When he learned I was a native of Oxford, out in Chester County, the man took me on a walk down memory lane, spouting off a bunch of familiar names and old, longtime family friends.

It’s those kind things that make the holiday special.