News About Town: The town is accepting applications for tourism grants through September 27, 2021. These grants provide financial assistance to non-profits that promote visitation and tourism in Matthews. After the deadline, the Parks, Rec, and Cultural Advisory Committee will review applications and make recommendations to the Board of Commissioners. Have an interest but need some questions answered? Email Parks & Rec Director Corey King at cking@matthewsnc.gov.

Last year, grants were awarded in the following amounts: Charlotte City Ballet: $4,500; Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association: $13,500; Matthews Chamber of Commerce: $7,918; Charlotte Junior Rugby Association: $14,500; and Matthews Playhouse: $40,850; totaling $81,268. Tourism grant award amounts should equal 5% of the tourism revenue from the previous fiscal year. According to the 2020 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the town board approved a  $1,497,937 tourism budget for Fiscal Year 2021. With consideration of the impact of COVID-19 on tourism income (like tax revenue from meals and lodging), grants may roughly total just under $75,000.

News Around Town: On Saturday, August 28, Victoria Crocker honored and remembered her grandmother, who passed away from colorectal cancer, and other loved ones impacted by cancer by displaying luminaries on the Town Green in front of Matthews Town Hall. Crocker participated in the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s (ACS CAN) annual Lights of Hope Across America, an event to raise awareness toward policy changes needed in cancer care. Usually held in Washington, DC, the 2021 event was held in locations throughout all 50 states as well as Guam and Puerto Rico. To see Crocker’s display featured as part of the nationwide event, tune in on September 18 at 4pm at www.fightcancer.org/lights.

One Good Thing: Tacos deserve more than one day a week, especially when there are tasty options like Banh Mi Tofu and Crispy Chicken BLT. White Duck Taco in downtown Matthews (131 East John St) has all the options to make taste buds tingle from tortilla wrapped delights. With plenty of fresh air dining and mask-compliant staff, dining out feels almost normal.