Jeremy Cole, a new employee and resident of Winston-Salem, released on May 5 his ongoing series titled “Winston-Salem Stories,” which explores life in the city through the perspective of a newcomer. The latest installment focuses on Jim Painter, owner of Contempo Furniture, who has combined furniture sales with Belgian chocolates for two decades.
The series aims to share stories that showcase the character and everyday impact of Winston-Salem residents. Cole writes that these are “stories that remind us how much is happening around us, even when we don’t realize it. This is Winston-Salem Stories.”
In this episode, Cole recounts his conversation with Painter about how he and his late wife Donna brought the idea of selling chocolate alongside furniture after being inspired by a department store in London. While their florist venture did not succeed, chocolate proved popular with customers. “You know why I do it? I can make a friend with a piece of chocolate. Put an extra one in there for them. People remember, and they come back,” Painter said.
Painter also shared personal memories about meeting Donna as teenagers, building their business together since the 1970s, and raising their family within the store’s walls. Reflecting on retirement after Donna’s passing last year, he said: “I don’t know what I’d do with myself in retirement.” He described creating a special space in the showroom so they could spend time together during her illness.
The City of Winston-Salem supports economic development by aiding businesses like Painter’s while fostering jobs and minority enterprises to encourage community growth; it also manages vital infrastructure such as water treatment plants capable of processing up to 91 million gallons daily and maintains extensive water mains and sewer lines—functions overseen by its municipal government under an elected mayor and City Council according to the official website.
Cole concludes his story by highlighting how small gestures—like sharing chocolate—help create lasting relationships within Winston-Salem’s community.
