This building was home to the Knights of Pythia, the first fraternal organization to be chartered by an Act of Congress. | Photo by WStoday
We all know about Old Salem and Historic Bethabara Park — but have you explored Bethania? Located 15-20 minutes outside of Winston-Salem, this historic town was the first planned Moravian community in North Carolina. Editor Kellina spent a day there, touring historic buildings and wandering through the scenic heritage trails during the Bethania Ramble hosted by Preservation NC.
The church was formed soon after eight Moravian families sought refuge in the town of Bethania in the midst of the French and Indian War. The group was permitted to settle on the land as they expressed their love for the Moravian Church. The church burned down in 1942 and was rebuilt.
This God’s Acre is located directly behind the Bethania Moravian Church’s parking lot.
You’ll be greeted by tall pine trees as soon as you enter the Moravian Cemetery. Like God’s Acre in Old Salem, it continues the tradition of Easter sunrise service every year. The cemetery is open daily and is a great escape for quiet reflection.
$89.5+ million. That’s the price tag Truliant Federal Credit Union secured for the sale of its headquarters, operations center, and four Triad branches. Instead of owning the property, the credit union will lease back its former building — a move owners say will strengthen the company’s net worth while boosting cash flow for upcoming projects. (Triad Business Journal)
Award
A good housekeeping rule: securing the win. And Visit Winston-Salem delivered. The Twin City earned a spot on Good Housekeeping’s 2026 Best Places to Travel. The magazine highlighted the city as a leisure travel destination that offers a “compelling mix of historic significance and modern creativity.”
Development
The city of Winston-Salem is considering a new housing project on the southside. The proposed Zachary Pointe Apartments would include 60 rental units along with a picnic shelter and playground across nearly six acres. The project is expected to be completed 16 months after construction begins. Residents can email their feedback to Matt B by Tuesday, Dec. 2.
Learn
Did you know the city has a dedicated team that responds to mental health and substance use emergencies within city limits? The BEAR (Behavioral Evaluation and Response)Team operates 24/7 and typically arrives on scene within 30 minutes. To access services, ask for “BEAR team” when you dial 911.
Try This
This Moravian treat is guaranteed to elevate your holiday gathering. Cousin Emma’s ginger cakes — thin, spicy, and beautifully nostalgic — will add a touch of Winston-Salem pride to your table. Swing by Acadia Foods in Washington Park to pick up your ingredients.
Answered
When it comes to holiday shopping, a decisive majority of WStoday readers (83%) shop for gifts in October or November, often around Black Friday. Another 17% say they skip holiday shopping altogether—and not a single person admitted to waiting until the last minute.
Cause
Looking for a local cause to support during the season of giving? Help Ronald McDonald House Charities Piedmont Triad provide warm meals, welcoming rooms, and a caring community for families facing a child’s health crisis. Give the gift of togetherness.*
Travel
Need weekend plans? Head to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains for a few illuminating holiday events, including the kickoff of Illuminights at Roanoke County’s Explore Park (select days Nov. 22–Jan. 4) and the Grand Illumination: Magical Christmas Village at Mountain Lake Lodge on Saturday, Nov. 22. More programming this way.*
Older Adults
Are you taking advantage of all the savings opportunities for adults ages 50+? This list of tips can support your continued saving and help build additional wealth.*
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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.
Make sure to stop at the Bethania House market to find some unique gifts like handmade soap and soy candles to brighten your home. The owner of the shop is a resident of Bethania and only opens the shop on the first Saturday of the month, so plan your travels accordingly.
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