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Community Corner

🌱 Brooks Family Asks for Privacy + Family Seeking Living Liver Donor

The quickest way to get caught up on the most important things happening today in Raleigh.

(Patch Media)

Happy Thanksgiving Raleigh!

I hope your Thanksgiving is full of nothing but love and joy. If you're new to the area, or on your own, there are a few awesome Friendsgiving opportunities below for you to enjoy a new tradition. If you are travelling, be cautious as others make their holiday commutes. Before you do whatever it is you're planning to do, get all caught up below on everything, including:

  • Volunteers at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC
  • Thanksgiving Dinner and Game Night
  • Holiday events and displays return

But first, today's weather:

Partly sunny and pleasant. High: 62 Low: 49.


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Here are the top five stories in Raleigh today:

  1. The family of Hailey Brooks issued a statement on Tuesday. Hailey Brooks was tragically killed during the Raleigh Christmas Parade. The family's statement said that "Hailey's tragic death has left our family heartbroken and in shock. She had a kind and humble heart that was always focused on caring for the needs of those around her. ... We greatly appreciate the love and support that the community has shown us and we plan to share more about Hailey's special life soon. At this time, we ask that the media respect our family's need for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dear Hailey." (WRAL)
  2. Ahead of Thanksgiving, many gathered to help the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina to deliver turkeys to families in need around the state. Among the volunteers was Governor Roy Cooper. "A lot of families ... are making the choice between buying gas for the car and buying enough food for the home," said Cooper. This year turkey prices increased nearly 20%, and around 12% of North Carolinians are facing food insecurity. (abc11)
  3. A Raleigh family is seeking the ultimate gift this season, as their 4-month old baby is in need of a living organ donor. Lindsey Westendorf and Greg Baker's son, Corbin, has a rare liver condition that led to liver failure. Along with the condition that caused the liver failure, Corbin is also fighting a second genetic deficiency, Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, that increases liver disease risk. The family is asking anyone that might be able to donate to email them directly at ashlynurse818@yahoo.com. (CBS17)
  4. According to an analysis of incident reports, car thefts in Raleigh have been on the rise over the last five years. Between January 1 and November 15 this year, car thefts are up nearly 58% over the same period in 2018. The population has been growing, but the reported increase in car thefts is outpacing the growth. According to experts, the stolen car trend is indicative of a blind spot in perceptions of crime, as violent crime draws more attention, but property crime is more common on a daily basis. The police officer shortage likely plays a role in the jump in crime. (WRAL)
  5. Triangle malls are already planning an increase in security for Black Friday shopping rushes. Crabtree Valley Mall says that it routinely enhances its security presence on busy shopping days. Last year, a shooting took place at the Streets at Southpoint, that left six people injured, this year they have prepared increased security. (abc11)

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Today in Raleigh: For previous recurring events, check with venues to see if they are still happening on the Holiday. I have only included events that explicitly say they are happening on Thanksgiving.

Friday in Raleigh:

  • Day after Thanksgiving Run at Sertoma Arts Center (9:00am) & Post Turkey Trek at Raleigh Brewing Co. (11:00am)
  • Black Friday Brunch at STIR Raleigh (10:00am)
  • England vs. USA The World Cup at My Way Tavern (2:00pm)
  • The Dessertery atat Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts (Select Times)
  • Comedy Night at Nicklepoint Brewing Co. (8:00pm-9:30pm)
  • Ground Zero 18+ Blackout Laser Tag (10:00pm-11:30pm)

From my notebook:

  • It's Thanksgiving and I hope you are able to take a step back and relax. If you're looking for some new traditions, Walter Magazine has compiled traditions from Raleigh residents that might be worth taking on.
  • WRAL Night of Lights returns tomorrow and runs through December 24.
  • The Christmas Carousel Holiday Gifting Market returns this weekend to the NC State Fairgrounds.
  • The Raleigh Fire Department is demonstrating the dangers of improperly frying a turkey. Make sure you follow all safety guidelines to avoid an unexpected blaze. (City of Raleigh Facebook)
  • GoTriangle will have no service on Thanksgiving, and will be operating on a Sunday Service schedule for Black Friday. (GoTriangle Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday off right! I'll see you around.

CJ Fullford

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Raleigh Daily? Contact me at raleigh@patch.com

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