News About Town: Over the past several decades, monarch populations have been in decline and Matthews won't sit idly by. In March of this year, Mayor Higdon signed a Monarch Pledge with the National Wildlife Federation promising to urge the community to plant native milkweeds and nectar-producing plants. He also issued a Proclamation to raise awareness about the decline of the monarch butterfly and the species’ need for habitat. One of the easiest ways to support monarchs is to provide nectar and a host plant for their annual migration. Conveniently, the Town of Matthews Appearance & Tree Advisory Committee is hosting a native milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) sale on May 22 from 9 to 11am in the Matthews United Methodist Church parking lot. The cash only drive-thru plant sale will provide COVID-safe precautions while supporting pollinator populations. Don't get greedy with your butterfly weedy: plants are $5 each and there's a limit to 10 plants per customer.

News Around Town: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is hosting a Community Engagement Session via Zoom this Wednesday, May 5 at 6pm. Hosted by the Office of Student Assignment and School Choice, the meeting will provide information about the relief school for Bain, Lebanon Road, Piney Grove Elementary Schools, and, due to proximity, will likely also provide relief for Matthews and Crown Point Elementary Schools.

One Fun Thing: Venture up Monroe Rd this Saturday to the McAlpine Business Park barn (8300 Monroe Road, Charlotte) in MoRa for the Carolina Clay Matters Spring Pottery Festival. This is your chance to snatch up some of Matthews artist Jennifer Stone Carroll’s ceramics. Jennifer will be one of 50 artists selling wares at the incredibly popular festival.