GREENSBORO, N.C. — In 2024, WFMY News 2 turns 75! It's our diamond anniversary! As we celebrate our diamond year, we want to take time to highlight diamonds in our community. We know there are people all over the Triad who make their communities shine! WFMY News 2 asked members of the public to nominate their diamonds and were overwhelmed with the amazing entries. But the February highlight was Carnie Riddle.
THE NOMINATION
After three decades of unwavering commitment and exceptional service, Carnie Riddle, the esteemed driver for Abbotswood at Irving Park, a Kisco Community, has announced his retirement. Carnie's retirement marks the end of an era, as he leaves behind a legacy of compassion, friendship, and invaluable support to the older adults in our community. Throughout his tenure as the driver for Abbotswood at Irving Park, Carnie has been more than just a driver. He has been a confidant, an advocate, a friend, and a resource to thousands of older adults in our community. His dedication to ensuring their safety, comfort, and well-being has been unparalleled. Carnie's impact extends far beyond the walls of Abbotswood. He is widely recognized throughout the Triad as an individual of charisma and character. His warm smile, friendly demeanor, and genuine care for others have endeared him to all who have had the pleasure of crossing paths with him. When he's not busy serving seniors, he can often be found indulging in his love for McDonald's, enthusiastically supporting the Tar Heels, or finding solace in the music of Heart and Boston. Carnie finds peace in tending to his garden, where he can connect with nature and appreciate its beauty. "We are immensely grateful for Carnie's tireless service to Abbotswood and the greater Greensboro community," said Abbotswood Executive Director William Eubank.
ABOUT CARNIE RIDDLE
Jody Clayton, who nominated Riddle said, "Carnie is a human that has never met a stranger." Members of the WFMY News 2 team witnessed his love for people personally when they arrived to shoot video for the story about Riddle. He made each person feel like they were the most important person in that moment, and gave each one his undivided attention. He genuinely took an interest in them, their family and what they liked. Everyone told our team that what we experienced was not unique. Carnie gives that kind of attention to everyone. Whether its with a greeting of 'you da man!' or simply a hug and a smile, Riddle left the space brighter and lighter than when he entered. Riddle said "I don't want anyone to feel left out. I make sure they know they're loved and cared for. If they can't depend on anybody else, they can depend on me."
Carnie said he's been around senior citizens all his life. He says many of the people he's connected with have made an impact on him as well, "I don't feel comfortable saying I touched them, they've touched me."
When asked about his legacy, Riddle said, "I would want people to remember me as a kind, sweet loving person, someone who made a difference in their life when they needed it."
For winning the February Community Diamond, Riddle received:
-$100 gift certificate from Windsor Jewelers
-$75 Visa gift card
-Community Diamond recognition certificate
-Other diamond goodies!
NOMINATE A DIAMOND
You can nominate people in your community as a Community Diamond! Fill out the nomination form below and tell us about people who are making a difference in your community! WFMY News 2 will choose one winner a month to spotlight in an on air story. The monthly winner will also receive a gift certificate to Windsor Jewelers and a Visa Gift Card so they can reward themselves or continue doing good in their community.
At the end of the year, each of the monthly winners will be entered into a grand prize drawing for a larger item from Windsor Jewelers.