Hey Salem,

I need to tell you something I've been working on for a while now.

I'm writing a book.

It's called "How Parties Will Save the World" and honestly? You're the reason it exists.

Let me explain.

When I started What's Happening Salem over a decade ago, I thought I was just creating a newsletter about cool stuff happening in our city. Events, openings, things to do.

But something else happened.

You started showing up. Not just to events, but for each other. I watched strangers become friends at coffee shops I featured. I saw collaborations form because two people showed up to an event I hosted.

The content was never the point. The connections were.

And that's when I realized something that's become the foundation of my entire work:

Community isn't built through programs or platforms. It's built through gatherings—intentional moments where people show up as humans.

When people ask me how to fix culture problems in their office, or how to build bridges in the community, you know what I tell them?

Throw a party.

I'm serious. Not a "team building exercise." Not a corporate retreat with trust falls. A real gathering. Food. Music. Space for people to be themselves.

And it works!

So I'm writing it all down, the frameworks, the stories, the playbook for how to build real connection in a world that desperately needs it.

And this is where I need your help.

The book is available for pre-order today for $0.99. It launches early 2026.

Here's why I'm asking you specifically:

Every pre-order proves to publishers that this message matters. It helps me get this book into bookstores, onto podcasts, and in front of leaders who need it.

But more than that? You've lived this. You've seen what happens when a community shows up for each other. You know this isn't some fluffy theory, it's how real change happens.

Here's how you can help:

1️⃣ Pre-order the book for $0.99 → https://jacob.weldwoodpublishing.com/

2️⃣ Forward this email to someone outside Salem who needs this message (your boss, your friend in another city, that leader you know who's struggling)

3️⃣ Post about it and tag me—I'll reshare every single one

Less than a dollar. But if enough of us do it, we can prove that community still matters.

A Few Things You'll Find in the Book:

One More Thing:

When I think about the last decade of What's Happening Salem, I don't think about the events I covered or the emails I sent.

I think about the wedding that happened because two people met at a First Wednesday. The business partnerships that formed over coffee. 

That's what this book is about.

And that's why I need you in on this.

You've been building this with me all along. Now let's take it further.

🔗 Pre-order "How Parties Will Save the World" for $0.99

Thank you for being part of this community. For showing up. For proving that connection still matters.

Let's show the rest of the world what we already know.

– Jacob

P.S. — Yes, the title is a little ridiculous. That's the point. If it makes one more person stop and think "wait, maybe there's something here," then it's worth it.