The spirit of giving was alive and well outside the entrance to Walmart in Covington Friday.

Joe Dickens was taking donations for the Salvation Army and his bucket was full to the brim at 2:30 p.m. on the traditional first day of the holiday shopping season, Black Friday.

According to Dickens the crowds were heavy and shoppers generous with donations.

Dickens said he has been ringing the bell for the Salvation Army for nine years. He said he will work every day, but Sunday, from about 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.