Can you guess from which major building downtown this photo was taken from?|Photo by WStoday
As Winston-Salem continues to innovate, let’s take a look at where we were and what brought us to today. Let’s talk innovation.
How it started
From “tobacco town” to a booming industrial midsize city, Winston-Salem has made exponential growth over the years — think businesses, cultural activities, entertainment, and nationally acclaimed institutions.
In the early 20th century, companies like RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. and Hanesbrands were the top industries driving the city’s economic workforce. Camel was the brand of RJR cigarettes, hence the Twin City earning the name “Camel City.”
Winston-Salem’s nickname changed to “the City of Arts and Innovation” in 2014, when leaders and community members wanted to recognize its strengths extended well beyond tobacco. That’s where Innovation Quarter came into play.
How it’s going
From the 1900s through the 1960s, the expanding business landscape included food, fashion, and textiles which made the city a melting pot.
“Come Out and Play!” | 1-3 p.m. | 18 Springs Community Healing Center | $60 | Get in touch with your intuition and create your own mini art book at this two-part class — email resetandrenew@yahoo.com to register. Grocery Store Tour | 9-10:15 a.m. | Trader Joe’s | Free, RSVP required | Food experts with Twin City Health will share tips on shopping healthy on a budget + remove the confusion around what to eat — call to 336-768-4791 to register.
Wednesday, Nov. 13
HealthRHYTHMS | 12:30-1:30 p.m. | Generations Center | Free | Join the guided drumming session geared to increase energy, positive mood, and relaxation for all ages.
Thursday, Nov. 14
How To Make A Gingerbread House From Scratch | 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Virtual, Winston-Salem | Free | Watch a demonstration on best practices when it comes to making the perfect gingerbread house from the comfort of your own home.
Friday, Nov. 15
Friends of Central Library Big Book Sale | Friday, Nov. 15-Sunday, Nov. 17 | Times vary | Forsyth County Central Library | $2+ | Shop thousands of gently used books, audio books, CDs, and DVDs from a large selection of fiction titles and authors.
Salem Academy and College is planning to transform its unused 80,000-sqft building into a $30 million hotel. The building will have 86 rooms, meeting rooms, a restaurant + bar, and an auditorium — the project is expected to be complete in 2027. (Triad Business Journal)
Open
Eggs up Grill will celebrate its grand opening today at 1965 Peace Haven Rd. The breakfast franchise will serve an “all-American” breakfast menu from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. (Winston-Salem Journal)
Real Estate
Learn the steps for purchasing city-owned land for affordable housing during two informational meetings. The virtual meeting on YouTube will be held from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13. Get your questions answered in person at Hanes Hosiery Community Center Thursday, Nov. 14 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Today Is
Veterans Day. The Twin City ranked No. 60 on WalletHub’s list of the best cities for veterans to live. The report compared the 100 largest cities in the US across 19 key indicators like the number of military skill-related jobs, veteran income growth, and access to VA health facilities.
Biz
Bidding is still open for the former Camel Pawn Shop on North Liberty Street. Prospective buyers take part in the online auction through tomorrow, Nov. 12.
Closing
Par Les Femmes is closing its doors. Shoppers can get 50% off all remaining items. Check out these other swap meets and consignment stores around Winston-Salem.
Travel
Ready to breeze through airport security? Enroll in TSA PreCheck at Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) through Friday, Nov. 15. Make an appointment online or walk in. Pro tip: Bring your ID and proof of citizenship — the process takes less than 10 minutes.
Pets
Bella, Luna, Daisy, Max, and Charlie. Those ranked among the most popular name for dogs in North Carolina according to US News & World Report. Take Charlie to one of these dog-friendly spots around Winston-Salem.
Health
This innovative device is changing the game of hearing aids. Its dual-processing systems separate speech from background noise, ensuring you never miss a beat. (Bonus: They’re rechargeable, comfortable, nearly invisible, and app-controlled.) Claim your free consultation.*
Arts
Reynolda will host an in-depth discussion of Joseph Cornell’s Untitled (Shadow Box), led by director of teaching and learning, Julia Hood, on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 12-1 p.m. This work is from the exhibition Founder’s Vision, which celebrates Reynolda House Museum of American Art founding president Barbara Babcock Millhouse. Register.*
Plan Ahead
The annual Cheers! For Brenner Children’s Fundraiser is happening Friday, Nov. 15 at the Millennium Center, ft. a seated dinner with specialty cocktails, auctions, and a silent disco. Proceeds go to pediatric care at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. Buy your tickets.*
Giveaway
Have you entered our Ultimate Hype Hens Fan Giveaway, in partnership with the Winston-Salem Dash? Today is the last day to enter for a chance to win exclusive merch, tickets + the opportunity to throw the first pitch at the 2025 Hype Hens game. Enter on our Instagram.*
Cause
Send joy + hope. Crisis Control Ministry is accepting orders for Holiday Honor Cards now through Monday, Dec. 16. The purchase of these cards helps Crisis Control Ministry provide food, medication, housing, and utility assistance to neighbors experiencing crises. Choose from eight beautiful card designs by local artists.*
The Buy
The Buy
Your favorite Nordstrom item on sale, since the store’s limited-time fall sale ends tonight. We’re seeing: discounts on cashmere sweaters, leather loafers, and crisp white fashion sneakers.
Thank you to all the veterans that have served our nation. We are thankful for your service. Veterans can get a meal deal at these participating stores in the Triad.
