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Hundreds on hand for annual James Brown Turkey Giveaway

Posted: 3:17 PM Nov 19, 2012
Reporter: Chris Thomas

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News 12 First at Five / Monday, Nov. 19, 2012

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Hundreds were on hand Monday for the annual James Brown Turkey Giveaway.

It is the generosity of the James Brown family and other community and civic leaders that ensures Stephanie Winters and others like her have a Thanksgiving turkey this year.

"It means a lot to me because I only get $300 in food stamps. Me and my husband, we had to have something, so this right here is a blessing from God and these people," Winters said.

Lines started forming at 6:30 a.m. More than 500 people registered for turkeys.

Deanna Brown says the registration system is a must, despite nagging questions.

"You know, why is she doing it this way? Well, Dad had the resources to do, 'Hey ... go get as many turkeys as we need.' And then there were times when he had lines out here and couldn't serve everybody," Brown said.

Like Winters, Lynn Jennings doesn't mind the registration process.

"In fact, I was surprised it went so fast," she said.

Jennings says she's just happy the James Brown family is continuing to proudly follow in the Godfather of Soul's footsteps.

"It's a blessing when the whole community can come together and this kicks off the thanksgiving season in Augusta, Ga., every year," she said.

The next stop is New York, where a giveaway is planned for Tuesday in Harlem.