Gritty Saves Christmas! Flyers mascot surprises South Philadelphia couple with new wreath after theft

A homemade holiday wreath made to look like the Flyers mascot was recently stolen from the door of Dan Jackson and Tim Popp’s home.

“When (Dan) hung it, I told him, ‘I was worried. It was so unique and so lovely, it was going to be stolen,'” Popp told Action News last week.

“I don’t think you can put something so beautiful in the world and also not expect something to happen,” Jackson said as Popp laughed at the comment.

Gritty however found it no laughing matter.

The mascot joined in and posted a social media message to the South Philly Grinch, “If you don’t return the wreath, I’ll find you, I’ll find you and I’ll make you a cake.”

While the original wreath has yet to be identified, Gritty – in a Gritty Claus costume – surprised the couple with a new one.

“Christmas just got saved?” Gritty tweeted Wednesday afternoon, along with a photo of the three holding a new giant wreath, which also resembles the mascot.

Gritty also posted a surprise vacation video.

Jackson told Action News that it took about two hours to make his original Gritty wreath and it was the centerpiece of the family’s door decor.

Despite being the victim of a holiday theft, the couple still wanted to share their best wishes to the perpetrator.

“We hope they will like Gritty at their doorstep. We hope it will invite and welcome their friends and family,” Popp said.

Jackson and Popp now have a giant Gritty wreath to celebrate the holiday.

They also have another Gritty wreath they made after the first one was stolen, complete with theft deterrent. It will break if someone takes it down from their door.

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