These spec buildings will have flexible designs that can accommodate a wide range of industry sectors. | Photo courtesy of Greater Winston-Salem, Inc.
The city is expanding economic development opportunities to draw businesses to the Twin City.
Here comes theSpec (Speculative) Building Loan Program, an interest-free loan assistance program for developers. It incentivizes them to build industrial or commercial spaces that will attract new tenants. The goal is by giving businesses ready-made places to call home, the tax base will grow, jobs will be created, and Winston-Salem’s industrial development will expand.
The City Council approved $7.5 million for the Spec Building Loan Program. The city is partnering with Greater Winston-Salem, Inc. to establish the incentive.
“By increasing the availability of high-quality industrial space, we can attract new businesses, support existing industries, and drive economic prosperity in our community,” said Ellis Keifer, Vice President of Economic Development for Greater Winston-Salem, Inc.
Special Thursday Yoga | 6:30 p.m. | Radar Brewing Co. | $12 | Practice the mindfulness exercise and reward yourself with a Europa Hefeweizen paired with a lobster roll from Cousins Maine Lobster food truck.
Tarot Reading | 7 p.m. | Joyner’s | $15+ | See what’s in the cards for you with Melodic Moon Tarot reader who will share insight on a particular area of your life.
Evening in the Atrium | 5:30-7 p.m. | The Downtown Grille | Cost of purchase | Elevate your evening with live music by local artists Tiffany Thompson and Michael Anderson — plus, enjoy a pop-up bar and light bites.
Friday, Jan. 17
Dr. King’s Dream | 10 a.m. | Brown & Douglas Active Adult Center | Free | Older adults are invited to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy with engaging conversations and a warm meal.
SonicSons | 7-10 p.m. | Joymongers Barrel Hall | Cost of purchase | Rock through 70s, 80s, and 90s music with the band and enjoy beer and cocktails while you’re at it.
Saturday, Jan. 18
Arts and Crafts Supply Yard Sale | 12-3 p.m. | South Fork Community Center | Cost of purchase | Bring your gently used crafting tools, fabrics and other supplies to sell with a $10 registration fee or buy what’s on display.
Theater Volunteer Open House | 2-4 p.m. | Camel City Playhouse | Free | Come see what it’s like to support the community theater and how you can get involved with lights, sounds, acting, and more.
Auction Game Sales | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Winston-Salem Fairgrounds | Cost of purchase | Score unique finds like classic arcade machines, pinball tables, and entertainment accessories to add to your collection.
MLK Jr. Throwback Weekend | 9 p.m.-2 a.m. | Simply Sonya’s | $31+ | See a performance by Mr. Cheeks from the Lost Boys and delight in soulful bites from the restaurant.
Sunday, Jan. 19
Bridal Show | 12-3 p.m. | Legacy Stables and Events | Free | Tour three venues nestled on the 30-acre farm and let the bartenders serve you hors d’oeuvres and beverages of your choice.
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Weigh in on a proposed change within Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools that wouldn’t automatically reject prospective employees for testing positive for THC. Public comment is expected to be posted on the school website before it goes up for a board vote. (Winston-Salem Journal)
Seasonal
Get a head start on pampering your love with flowers and chocolate ahead of Valentine’s Day. Preorder a small or large vase of flowers and a sweet treat from The Little Cake Company — quantities are limited and start at $55.
Regional
In order to increase safety on the roads and reduce congestion, NCDOT is asking for your input on its 10-year transportation plan. From Monday, Jan. 27 through Friday, Feb. 28, you can submit project ideas online or in person at the NCDOT Division 9 Office on Silas Creek Parkway.
Ranked
Winston-Salem came in at No. 176 when it came to Milken Institute’s 2025 economic performance rankings — factors include tech presence and growth, projected job openings, and market conditions. Despite placing lower this year, there’s still plenty of top employers hiring in the Twin City. (Triad Business Journal)
Arts
These dishes can hear. You can spot new art near the Kaleideum in Liberty Plaza. The Whispering Dishes stand about 15 ft away from each other and amplify sound waves, so one person can hear their friend’s message clearly while standing at the other dish.
Try This
Have singing talent you’d like to share with the world?Share a video of yourself playing a song you’ve written by Monday, Feb. 10 for a chance to perform a Tiny Desk Concert at NPR in Washington, DC. and be featured on tour. This could be your big break.
Finance
Did you know some credit cards can actually help you get out of debt faster? (It sounds wild, but it’s true.) The secret: Find a credit card with a “0% intro APR” period for balance transfers. This is hands-down one of the best of 2025.*
Volunteer
Did you know MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service? Join AmeriCorps this MLK Day to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King and help your community by volunteering on Monday, Jan. 20. Find volunteer opportunities to serve locally.*
The Buy
The Buy
A pair of 14K gold plated heart hoops. The huggie-sized earrings are hypoallergenic and tarnish-resistant. Psst — they’re also the perfect Valentine’s Day accessory.
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