News About Town: The Matthews Gives Back campaign ended on December 13, and Town Hall was transformed into a temporary toy store with rows of tables stacked with toys. The gift drive allowed 75 families a place to shop for holiday gifts, serving 172 children in the community. The drive was a partnership among Matthews organizations, including the Town of Matthews, Matthews Police, the HELP Center, Matthews Kiwanis, Butler Dream Team, and Matthews United Methodist.

News Around Town: Beer drinking tree huggers rejoice! You are the target demographic for the Catawba Riverkeepers’ newest fundraiser: beer drinking to support clean water efforts. Choose the Amarillo Orchard IPA at Seaboard Brewing and 95 cents from each pour will be donated to the Riverkeepers. The offer is only good through the end of the month, so frequency and dedication are in order. Fun facts: Beer is 95% water (hence the 95 cents) and, around here, our water comes from the Catawba River.

So Many Fun Things: On December 23, the Town's Park and Rec department is offering Drop N' Shop child care so parents can finish up holiday preparations. The Drop N' Shop is open to children ages 6 to 13; 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.

This Saturday, December 21, at 3:30 pm, the Charlotte Community Singers will perform their favorite holiday songs at the Matthews Library. 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.