There’s an after-Thursday support group related to the 33rd Great American Smokeout on Nov. 20. Stay Quit Monday is a weekly affirmation on the day that symbolizes a fresh new start. It’s a project of the Healthy Monday campaign designed to refocus and recommit in the event of a relapse.

Give it up, already!

Apparently the average smoker tries to quit seven to 10 times before quitting for good, studies show. Smoking is responsible for nearly one in five deaths in the United States and globally it’s the number one cause of preventable death, Healthy Monday representatives report.

Need help? Call the American Cancer Society's Quitline at 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org or www.HealthyMonday.org/stayquit.

Thanksgiving service to include turkey

Register in advance for a free turkey from Allison Chapel Church of God in Christ. The congregation’s fourth annual Thanksgiving service will be at 11:45 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at 1248 Woodworth Blvd.

Registration will be at 10 a.m. For information, call the Rev. M. Alfred at 781-0242.

Holiday spirit in Groves

Debbie Snell gives a great Groves report:

“ The sights and sounds of Christmas were definitely in the cool air on Sunday with the Christmas Tree Trail to Groves,” Snell, administrative assistant of the Groves Chamber of Commerce & Tourist Center, said. “All of the participating Groves merchants were full of joy as they reported that they had a large number of visitors to their businesses and that sales were brisk.” 

Craft vendors were a new feature.

“They offered a diverse variety of items for Christmas gifts. Thanks to all who visited the Groves businesses and helped make the annual Christmas Tree Trail to Groves a resounding success. Hope to see you next year,” Snell said.