News About Town: As we get closer to Christmas and Hanukkah, pressure mounts go to all the parties, buy all the gifts, and find time to decorate homes. Matthews residents with kids can have a helping hand from the town this year: drop your kids off with Park and Rec. On December 23, the department is offering child care so parents can enjoy a day of shopping and holiday prep. The Drop N' Shop is open to children ages 6 to 13 and filled with fun activities to keep the kids entertained. Be sure to pack a lunch and two snacks (or send money for snacks from the vending machine). Reserve a spot for your child here or call 704-708-1287.

News Around Town: In November, John LeGrand,principal at Butler High School, was promoted within CMS to executive director of the Central 2 Learning Community. This week CMS named Vincent Golden as the new principal for Butler. Vincent has 13 years of experience with CMS, most recently as principal for Northridge Middle School.

So Many Fun Things: This Saturday, December 21, at 3:30 pm, the Charlotte Community Singers will perform at the Matthews Library. The group, an intergenerational folk chorus, practices weekly at Plantation Estates and is ready to spread some seasonal cheer by singing their favorite holiday songs. Grab a cup of hot apple cider, gather around the fireplace, and Celebrate the Season with A Charlotte Community Singers Sing-Along.

Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Art presents It's A Wonderful Life this weekend (December 20 -December 22) with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday shows. Buy tickets here.

We're giving away a pair of tickets to see It's a Wonderful Life at the Playhouse this weekend. We'll accept entries through the end of today, December 18, then give the tickets away on Thursday. To enter, either send us a note saying, "Count me in, I have a Wonderful Life," or comment on Facebook.