News About Town: The Town of Matthews recently purchased 11 new Cardiac Science G5 Defibrillators for the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Program, thanks to a $15,000.00 grant from Novant Health. The older defibrillators these replace were heavier with outdated parts. “When Novant Health found out that we were looking at ways to start upgrading our AEDs, they immediately asked how they could help,” said Matthews Police Chief, Clark A. Pennington. “It’s such an overwhelming feeling when you have community partners that are willing to help provide lifesaving equipment to our officers. We all benefit when our officers have the best tools possible.” Novant stated it’s crucial for these machines to be available for police in emergency response roles. Accessibility and response time dramatically increase chances of survival for a person who experiences sudden cardiac arrest.

News Around Town: Calling all veterans! Starting later today (August 1) and continuing on the first Thursday of each month, Team RWB, Veterans Bridge Home, and Dog Tag Technologies invite you and your families to enjoy free yoga. Classes will be held on the second floor of the Community Center (100 East McDowell St) starting at 6:30 pm. An elevator, if needed, is just past the front desk on the ground floor

One Fun Thing: Huge gaffe around Beacon HQ, we missed National Mutt Day. Mutts are our MO, so to all the mixed breed pupsters out there, we salute you. For all you craft brew drinkers, today is National IPA Day, so grab the closest pale ale and raise a pint to all the fabulous mutts of Matthews.