News About Town:  The dogs are back in town. Bloodhound Week is, in Beacon world, more exciting than the Superbowl and unfortunately ends today. The Matthews Police Department hosts the National Police Bloodhound Association K-9 training every fall with training throughout Matthews. More than 40 K-9 handlers and their bloodhounds participated, learning and perfecting tools of the trade.

News Around Town: Looking for an alternative to the neighborhood candy crawl that is trick or treating? Tomorrow, October 25, Matthews Township Shopping Center (1811 Matthews Township Parkway) is hosting a Costume & Candy Crawl. Stop by from 5 until 7 pm. Join Matthews Presbyterian on Sunday, October 27, from 4:00 to 5:30 pm for their annual event. Then, Wednesday, October 30, from 6 to 8 pm, Idlewild Baptist (12701 Idlewild Rd) is hosting a Fall Fest. In addition to games, crafts, and prizes, the church will host a Trunk or Treat.

One Good Thing: Free paper yard waste bags are available through the county at various recycling centers around Mecklenburg Co. Why paper? When you’re disposing of yard waste, the entire bag can go in the yard waste trucks, eliminating the step of emptying plastic bags. Although there’s not a recycling center with the bags in Matthews, head over to Hickory Grove to pick some up. If you don’t want to drive, they’re also available at Lowe’s and Target.

Bonus Bite: We’ve got two pairs of tickets to the Haunted Trail! Want to win? Comment on our Facebook post with your favorite Halloween costume idea. Bonus points if you include pics.