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Editor’s Pick
Personal reflection
Did you know no one is allowed to swim in Salem Lake because that’s where our drinking water is drawn from? | Photo by WStoday
Hey, there Winstonians. Editor Kellina here. I just graduated from the City of Winston-Salem University, a 12-week course designed to educate residents on different functions of our local government.
Throughout the 12 weeks, we learned how 20 city departments operate, including how the city prioritizes its budget. Here are three facts you should know about our city government:
Our water system began in 1770s in Old Salem. Today, it takes more than $13 million to operate and maintain water plants.
In case of snow and ice events, city crews operate on a 24-hour cycle until streets are cleared.
The city spends approximately $3.9 million for ground maintenance to keep the city clean and beautiful (think turf, parks, and greenways).
The course is free and open to the public, but Winston-Salem residents must apply to be selected. Applications are set to open in May 2026.
Asked
Asked
The Winston-Salem City Council is responsible for the following, except...
A. Funding the school system B. Setting economic policies C. Establishing property taxes D. Regulating land through zoning laws
Experience a Hallmark-worthy holiday weekend in Salem, VA
Presented by Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge
While you’re making your list (and checking it twice), make sure this festive experience is included. | Photo provided by Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge
It might not be December yet, but holiday plans are already in full swing.
Here’s an experience to add to the top of your list: a weekend getaway to the City of Salem in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, just about two hours from downtown.
The best part? We’ve already done the planning for you:
🎄 Friday, Dec. 5
Kick off the weekend with Salem’s annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting. Then, enjoy a festive performance by the symphony at the Salem Civic Center.
🎄 Saturday, Dec. 6
Shop handmade gifts and seasonal goodies at the Crafty Christmas Market. Bonus: Don’t miss the family-friendly Gingerbread Festival at the Salem Museum and Longwood Park.
🎄 Sunday, Dec. 7
Stroll downtown, catch a soccer game, and soak in the small-town charm before heading home full of holiday spirit.
A new barbershop crew has arrived on Burke Street. Located in the West End, Black Oak Barbershop provides various services, including beard trim, shave, and kids’ haircuts. The shop runs Tuesdays through Saturdays, but you must schedule an appointment first.
Coming Soon
Another biz is also setting the stage for style. Windsor Dalton Designs Showroom is coming soon. The home decor shop will feature curated furniture, textiles, and antiques. Stay tuned for an official opening date + location.
Announced
Work is taking shape on the Gemeinhaus and 1803 Distiller’s House at the Historic Bethabara. Crews will work on repairing the bell tower, remediate water, and complete other repairs in the next 3-4 months before reopening. Fun Fact: The Distiller’s House is one of the earliest known brewer’s/distiller’s houses in the US.
Biz
Got a business idea? The city is offering a free nine-week business training course to help business owners develop a successful business plan through financing, legal issues, bookkeeping and taxes, plus marketing. Participants meet on Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building.
Sports
It’s a slam dunk for Wake Forest University men’s basketball. The team opened the season at home, racking up a winning score of 88-74 against American University on Monday night, thanks in part to guard Nate Calmese. Catch the next home game where the Deacs will face Morehead State on Friday, Nov. 7, at LJVM Coliseum.
Winstonians
Winston-Salem’s rising country star, Cooper Alan, made an appearance on the Today Show this week, performing “Starting to Show.” More Winstonians are taking center stage as NBA All-Star Chris Paul made a brief appearance on the Season 9 Love Is Blind reunion on Netflix. We think he stole the show.
Holiday
Now in its 60th year, “The Nutcracker” from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts returns next month. This beloved holiday tradition brings together student dancers and a live orchestra for 5 magical performances (tickets this way).*
Active
Did you know? The burpee was named after Royal Huddleston Burpee, a 1930s physiologist who created this exercise as part of a fitness test. Learn about the man behind the move and how this full-body exercise has stood the test of time.*
Put your business’s message here in as little as two days when you score 15% off your first ad buy on our business promo portal. Redeem your discount with code NEW15 at checkout.
Health
Discover sharper hearing and a sharper mind with the Horizon IX hearing aid. Known as “a time machine for the brain,” it supports mental engagement and enhances your cognitive vitality. See if you qualify for a 45-day no-risk trial.*
Shop
Our version of the perfect fall cardigan features ultra-soft fabric, chunky gold buttons, and a slouchy yet chic silhouette. Think: Daytime errands and date night.*
The Buy
The right American Home Shield plan to cover your plumbing, electrical, and heating this winter. For a manageable monthly fee, you can cover the repair or replacement of major home systems. Aka: If you find yourself in need of a new $12,000 gas furnace, you’ll have a coverage plan to turn to. Phew.*
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.
I highly recommend attending city council meetings to make your voice heard on the first and second Mondays of the month. The next one is Monday, Nov. 17, at 6 p.m. at City Hall. You can also stream meetings online to hear about upcoming projects and share your thoughts with city leaders.
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