It will be a (hopefully) light week on news, so our traditional Morning Minute format is going on vacation for a few days. There are some things going on around Matthews, though, so check out what we’ve found:

If you need a pre-Christmas work out, Mojo Cycles Christmas Eve Day ride will be held at 9:00 am today. Meet in the public parking lot that runs parallel to the RR tracks (by the shop). Cyclists of all abilities are welcome for this 30- or 52-mile ride. No registration or fee and no formal support while on the road.

Most churches around town offer Christmas Eve services at various times. Renee’s favorite is at Matthews Presbyterian, a the more traditional candlelight and communion service (at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.). The kids of Matthews United Methodist Church will perform a biblical rendition of Scrooge at both 2:30 and 4:00 p.m. Ridge Church offers a casual environment in The Warehouse Cafe and the first 50 people get free peppermint mocha or hot chocolate. They offer live music before the service as well. Services begin at 3:00 and 4:30 p.m.

On Christmas day, if you’re ready to get out of the house for lunch, Beantown Tavern is offering an all-you-can-eat Christmas meal: $14.95 for adults, $7.95 for kids. Beantown has a local reputation for being a second home to many of our readers, and sometimes us need exactly that on Christmas Day.

We’re taking time to be with our own families over the next couple days. We still have posts scheduled, so make sure you check in.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays from the Beacon Family to yours!