All aboard as we headed to an emergency call. | Photo by WStoday
Hey Winstonians. Editor Kellina here. Ever wonder how our communities are kept safe? As part of the City of Winston-Salem University 2025 cohort, I had the privilege to get a behind-the-scenes look at how Winston-Salem Police and Fire Departments operate. I got my editor hat on and hopped on board for a ride. Here’s how my days went:
Fire department
12:35 p.m. — I reported to Fire Station 1 located on Marshall Street North on the outskirts of downtown Winston-Salem. I got to meet several firefighters, engineers, and tour the station. No, I did not see any pole.
Trading my job for a day wasn’t so bad.
Photo by WStoday
One fire engineer explained that poles are typically installed in stations with limited square footage to save space — a common practice in larger cities like New York.
Fun Fact: firefighters have 80 seconds between receiving a call and leaving the station.
Meet: WStoday’s Best. From outdoor dining to kid-friendly activities, we’re asking for your insight on the top-tier spots Winston-Salem has to offer.
There are only 10 days left to nominate, so let’s get right down to business.
How do I nominate?
Nominations are officially open and close Friday, Oct. 3. Click on this form to start nominating in various categories.
When does voting start?
Voting will open Monday, Oct. 20 and close Tuesday, Nov. 25.
What about the winners?
The winners for each category will be announced Monday, Dec. 8. Now that you have the details, it’s time to celebrate local biz. Ready, set, nominate.
Say hello to Winston-Salem’s newest farmers’ market. Trade Street Farmer’s Market will take place between 5th and 6th streets downtown on the first Sunday of the month. Mark your calendar for the first one on Sunday, Oct. 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Community
Celebrate the legacy of the Green Book at Magnolia’s 75th Anniversary Heritage Soiree at Magnolia Hotel in Greensboro. There’ll be soul food, a nostalgic juke joint atmosphere, and a ceremony honoring local champions preserving Green Book sites. Join the celebration on Friday, Sept. 26, at 6 p.m. — grab your ticket.
Closed
Mock Orange Bike is changing gears after operating for 22 years. The bike shop located on Reynolda Road closed over the weekend. Check out Bespoke Cyclery in Lewisville if you’re looking for a new two-wheeler.
Biz
Spending a late night in downtown Winston-Salem? EZ shuttles make it easy to hop around different businesses downtown and in the West End on Friday and Saturday nights, from 9- 12 a.m., so you can relax during your night out. The cost? $5 for each ride.
Family
$8,912. That’s how much a family of four can expect to spend on average for a seven-night trip to Walt Disney World, including meals, park tickets, and overnight accommodations on property. Vacation not in the cards this year? Budget-friendly family fun awaits with these Twin City activities. (NerdWallet)
Gallery
Buckle up, we’re taking you on a virtual road trip to see fall foliage across some of the National Park Service’s parks. While we’re dreaming of the scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, we can’t wait to see the leaves change on Reynolda Road.
At WStoday, we share hyper-local and need-to-know information about your Winston-Salem faves. Now, it’s time for you to tell us the best biz in the city. Click on this form to start nominating in various categories.
Home
Better insulation means lower bills... and we’ll take all the cost savings we can right now.This retailer is offering a buy two, get two free special on new windows — helping you keep extreme temps out, costs low, and curb appeal high. See disclaimers for important consumer information.*
Shop
Feeling fall? Us, too — that’s why we’re shopping HSN’s fall finds like this autumn tray decor set. New customers can save $15 with code WELCOME25.*
The Buy
Groupon is your ticket to unbeatable local experiences — think chef-curated tasting menus, skyline tours, and spa days that melt stress away. New deals boasting up to 70% local experiences drop daily.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Curious about doing a ride-along? You absolutely can. Just contact your local fire or police department and let them know you’re interested in tagging along to learn more about their work.
The experience typically lasts about four hours, and I felt very safe during the whole process. I highly recommend this experience.
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