NORTH CAROLINA, USA — 2023 has been an eventful year in the news, with conflicts going on overseas and other woes across the globe. However, there was still lots of joy to be found.
From incredible acts of kindness to diversity in small businesses to miracles that just make you smile, there is no doubt these stories didn't leave a special place in our viewers' hearts.
As we look back through the year, we gathered some of the many heartfelt stories across the Triad and surrounding areas.
New Edition star helps feed the homeless in Greensboro
Singer Ronnie DeVoe of the R&B group New Edition and Bell Biv Devoe joined the Green Team Helping Hands in Center City Park to help feed the homeless.
DeVoe has been volunteering for various organizations for causes ranging from preventing gun violence and speaking to the youth at the YMCA in different cities during a tour as a member of New Edition in their Legacy Tour.
Pastor returns to church Easter Sunday after being declared brain-dead
Last fall, listeria nearly took the life of a pastor at Grace Baptist Church in Wilkesboro. Ryan Marlow's wife's quick reaction likely saved his life just minutes before doctors would have donated his organs. Pastor Ryan was not only the lead pastor, he was also the music director.
Black-owned and operated beauty supply store makes history
A grandfather and granddaughter duo are operating a Triad business to provide hair care for Black men and women in the city of Greensboro.
"I remember when you could hardly reach the register. You had to stand on a crate,” Everett Bruce, the owner of Personal Treasures Beauty Supply and Salon said to his granddaughter.
"We kind of bounce off of each other. He’s more of the business side and I know what people like; I know what I like," his granddaughter Krista Morehead, who serves as the store's manager said.
Bruce started this business back in 2007 when he was selling various products to local salons.
Tabitha Brown comes to Greensboro to launch Target brand
Social media sensation Tabitha Brown came to Greensboro to launch her Target brand at Center City Park. Known for her cooking videos, advice, and positivity, Brown launched her first collection with Target on June 11, featuring 75 apparel, accessories, and swim options, according to Target.
Henry Winkler makes a stop in the Triad
Actor Henry Winkler, best known for his role as 'The Fonz' or 'Fonzie' from the popular TV series 'Happy Days,' stopped by Mozelle's Southern Bistro. He was in town for a book signing at Calvary Moravian Church, discussing his new memoir 'Being Henry.'
Vanilla Ice dines at Thomasville restaurant
Vanilla Ice stopped by Sixty Six Grill & Tap House in Thomasville. When servers noticed him, they immediately rushed to snap some pictures with him. Server Cheyenne Marshall shared her encounter with the rapper.
"He was a very humble; very nice guy. He spoke to us all with so much respect," Marshall said. "One server walked up to ask him his name and jokingly replied, "Johnny Cash," and they all laughed at the table as he said thank you."
Vanilla Ice is best known for his 1990 hit 'Ice Ice Baby' and appeared in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze in 1991.
Ed Matthews rescues new fur baby
Anyone who knows WFMY News 2 meteorologist Ed Matthews, knows he has a tender heart for animals.
Ed is a champion for homeless pets in our community, encouraging folks to adopt, not shop, for their four-legged companions.
That's exactly what he did. Ed welcomed a new addition to his family — a Yorkshire Terrier named Lily.
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