Morning Minute: Thursday, June 27, 2019

News About Town:  Proximity Matthews is planning to plant some trees. The Taft apartment complex overcut the tree canopy when land clearing began, because, as Taft representatives explained, the tree save information was too far back in the project design drawings. Taft paid a $50,000 fine and imposed their own $100,000 fine to the town. Now they’re planning to replace the trees, but need the Board of Commissioner’s approval of the new landscape plan. The Board will decide whether to hold a public input session. The trees to be planted include oak, pine, elm, and hollies, among others.

News Around Matthews: On Tuesday, County Commissioners held an informal meeting to discuss the potential Dedicated Sales Tax for Arts & Culture and Other Use. The quarter-cent increase in sales tax will equal about $50 million a year. How will that be divided up? $24 million would go towards arts and culture (mostly for Arts & Science Council), $8 million would supplement to public school teachers, $15 million will go to parks and greenways, and the remaining $2.5 million would go towards arts and parks programs in Mecklenburg’s six towns. On July 2, at their regular meeting, County Commissioners will vote on placing this on the November 2019 Ballot.

One Good Thing: Matthews Playhouse has a FREE Performance tonight at Fullwood Theatre. Nearly 30 area teenagers will take the stage to belt out the best of Broadway and show off some fancy footwork. The Playhouse students and camp-goers have been practicing hard to make this show a hit. The curtain goes up at 7 pm, make sure you're in your seat and ready to be impressed.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, June 26, 2019

News About Town:  There are a few town events coming up that are of note. Wednesday the police will hold a car seat checking station at the police station (1201 Crews Road, Matthews) starting at 8 am. The NCDOT meeting about the 51 widening is this Thursday, June 27, 2019, from noon to 7 pm and is a drop-in at Endhaven Elementary School (6815 Endhaven Lane, Charlotte). This Friday at 5 pm head up to Stumptown Park for Food Truck Fridays.

News Around Matthews: Any visually creative thespians out there? Matthews Playhouse is hiring! They’re looking for a Technical Director and several members for the Production Design Staff. The 2019/20 season includes The Adventures of Madeline, It’s A Wonderful Life, and Mamma Mia! For more info, contact the Playhouse.

One Good Thing: Five bucks won’t get you much these day. Maybe a meal at a fast food restaurant, less than two gallons of gas… ten movies. What?! Matthews Movies 10 is offering a 10 movie pass this summer for $5. See the newish How to Train Your Dragon, Peter Rabbit (a favorite around here), the SpongeBob Movie (barf), and a handful of others on the big screen. Bring the real cash for the drinks and pop corn.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, June 25, 2019

News About Town:  Last night, Matthews Commissioners had a brief meeting about the council meeting invocations. The meeting was brief and consisted mostly of questions from council members with clarifying answers by the town attorney. The board will have a calendar for invocations which will include many varieties of religious representation.

News Around NC: Climbing gym Inner Peaks is moving to Matthews. The popular rock climbing destination is moving their MoRa location to Independence Pointe in the former Grand Slam USA building ( 10715 Independence Pointe Pkwy).  The renovations will be lengthy, but an Inner Peaks spokesperson said they will be open in the new location by the end of the year.

One Good Thing: Every year the Matthews Human Services Council awards a person (or couple) the Nancy Glenn Award. The award honors those who have made Matthews a better community through service. This year’s recipient, Karla Ennis, is a nurse an community outreach coordinator for Novant Matthews. She was nominated because of her can do attitude and her amazing ability to connect the Matthews community with compassion and heart. Congratulations Karla!

Morning Minute: Monday, June 24, 2019

News About Town: Matthews lost a mainstay this past Friday, June 21, 2019. At approximately 9:00 am., Ms.Fanny Dolores Bunn was crossing Trade St. at the crosswalk near Which Wich and was struck by a motor vehicle. Ms. Fanny (also sometimes known by Delores) died at the scene. The 81-year old petite brunette lived near downtown and was often seen walking to Harris Teeter or Target with her red bag cart. The fatality is now an ongoing investigation conducted by members of the Matthews Police Department Accident Reconstruction Team.  The driver has not been charged at this time.

News Around NC: On the topic of pedestrian safety, North Carolina was recently ranked 13th worst in the country (and 7th worst for pedestrian fatalities). In Matthews there were 46 pedestrian incidents between 2007 and 2016 (pedbikeinfo.org doesn’t have more recent data) and four pedestrian deaths between 2007 and 2017, and two in 2018.

One Fun Thing: If you began the summer with a plan for daily pool trips and at-home crafts, but have already reached the limit of your optimism, fear not! Parks and Rec has you covered. There are still spots in some of their summer camps. Three magic words will make your, and their, summers brighter: Drop Off Fun.

Morning Minute: Friday, June 21, 2019

News About Town: Getting a jump start on campaign season, three incumbent candidates held their first meet and greet at Seaboard last night. The mayor and five commissioners were in attendance, as was the town manager. Candidates for Matthews Board of Commissioners don’t officially file to run until next month, so the full roster is yet to be known. Early voting begins Wednesday, October 16 and ends Friday, November 1. The general election is on Tuesday, November 5 from 6:30 am until 7:30 pm at your regular polling location.

News Around Town: NCDOT is hosting an open house/preconstruction meeting for the I-485 Express Lane project. This project will include the on/off ramps at Weddington Rd. and improvements to the John St. interchange. The express lanes will be tolled with cost depending on demand, existing lanes will not be toll lanes. Stop by anytime Thursday, June 27, from noon to 7 pm at the Endhaven Elementary School (6815 Endhaven Ln., Charlotte) to chat with NCDOT and Turnpike Authority representatives.

One Fun Thing: There’s one more chance to hear from Barbara Taylor, Director for the Matthews Heritage Museum, about the Tank Town exhibit. Barbara will be at Matthews Library presenting the history of the schools and churches in the community as well as some stories highlighting life in Tank Town. Saturday, June 22, 2 to 3 pm, Matthews Library.

Morning Minute: Thursday, June 20, 2019

News About Matthews: Prior to the Monday, June 24 Board of Commissioners meeting, the commissioners will meet at 5:30 to discuss the constitutionality of Board led invocations at council meetings. This is the second d time the board will discuss the topic, the first time largely centered about d the Rowan County Fourth Circuit ruling for a similar situation.

News Around Town: There is a lot of discussion about the sheriff’s department and undocumented immigrants in Mecklenburg County, especially with the HB370 progressing to the state senate. Sheriffs’ offices are clarifying their role in immigration. The Federal Government does not force Law Enforcement to follow their policies, which is how 287g came about as an opt in program. DHS/ICE must follow the same legal steps as any other federal and state agencies to detain a person and cannot force sheriffs to cooperate. Once a person is detained, it is up to the magistrate or judge to determine bond or details of release. Sheriffs are, at that point, required to follow those orders.

One Fun Thing: The lawyers of Garrity & Gossage LLP and Dessi Dufresni of Edward Jones are partnering up with a seminar series: Women, Wine, & Wisdom. The three seminars will cover a variety of topics geared toward women, including financial planning, common legal questions, and estate planning. About that wine...seminars start at 5 pm at The Black Chicken Market (131 Matthews Station St.) on the following Mondays: June 24, September 30, and November 18. To register, or for more info, call 704-841-0664.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, June 19, 2019

News About Matthews: Republic Services did not finish their Monday trash, recycling, and yard waste routes. Sardis Forest (Neil Ridge & Leeswood), Sardis Rd, and Stanhope, Somersby, Sandy Mead, Mangionne, and Barrington should now be picked up. If not, call Republic Services directly at 704-393-6900.

News Around Town: Approximately 50 Matthews businesswomen gathered at Grace O’Malley’s last night for Women In Business with the Matthews Chamber. The Greater Matthews Family Network (a collaboration of COSKids, Mathews Free Medical Clinic, and the Matthews Help Center) made a short presentation about their work, followed by a networking reception.

One Interesting Thing: On June 19, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, news reached Galveston, Texas that the Civil War had ended. Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day (celebrated annually on June 19) symbolizes the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the farthest reaches of the southern US.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, June 18, 2019

News About Matthews: Curious about future road projects in Matthews but unsure where to begin looking? On the town’s website, check out the Public Works page of transportation projects. The page lists anticipated projects that haven’t been funded yet, projects that are in the pipeline, and projects that have been completed. Just remember with NCDOT projects, knowing is not half the battle.

News Around Town: Without access to free breakfasts and assisted lunches during the regular school year, up to 45,000 kids could go hungry this summer. CMS’ Summer Food Service Program provides meals to kids who would otherwise go hungry. For those in the Matthews area, Crown Point Elementary and East Meck High School are serving meals throughout the summer. For menus and the schedules, see the CMS website.

One Fun Thing: This Sunday, June 23, trek on over to the east side of town for Kale Farms’ Farmers’ Market. Several vendors will be there, including Nectarri Honey Company, Kale Farms will have their own lotions and potions, and there will be a yoga class in the yard. This event is rain or shine,

Morning Minute: Monday, June 17, 2019

News About Matthews: It’s once again time for Elizabeth Lane Elementary to apply for a zoning allowance to keep module classrooms on the school property. Last year the Kress Query asked for an additional security camera on the modules, which CMS found to be of inferior quality to security measures in place. During the 2018 discussions, Query stated he will not approve the modules in 2019 without the additional security. Chris Melton approved the modules last year, but stated he will not support them this year because he feels CMS does not work collaboratively with Matthews. Since 2017, the Board has approved rezoning projects expected to add an additional 168 elementary students for CMS schools in Matthews.

News Around Town: Jim McGuinness, Head Coach of Charlotte Independence, is updating his resume after a very short stint with Charlotte Independence. Hired this past December for a three-year contract, Charlotte Independence has had one win in fourteen games under McGuinness. The team’s general manager (and their former coach) Mike Jefferies, is putting his coaching hat back on for the team.

One Fun Thing: Get out your camera and pretend you’re a tourist, it’s the last day to enter the Town of Matthews “Capture Matthews” photo contest. There are a few rules: photos must be taken in Matthews, no major photoshopping or editing, and no watermarks. These photos will be used on Town social media, the town website, and a number of other marketing methods, so by submitting your photos you give the town permission to use them. Want more details? Find them here

Morning Minute: Friday, June 14, 2019

News About Town: Mayor Pro Tem John Higdon and Commissioner Barbara Dement participated in the most recent Facebook Live event with commissioners. The commissioners briefly touched on the new City Arcade business going into the old Hooters location, assuring the police department would ensure a safe environment. They also touched on the tree loss at the Taft development, as well as advisory board opportunities. Watch on Facebook if you’d like to catch up.

News Around Town: If you’ve driven down Independence at Matthews Festival shopping center lately, you’ll notice the buildings in front of the old movie theater have been torn down. Because of the 51-widening, the Texas Roadhouse will be too close to the future bridge site (it will shift a few feet). The restaurant is relocating to the opposite side of the parking lot. At the most recent council meeting, the council approved elevations for Bonefish Grill, which will move to the area that is currently the Roadhouse parking lot.

One Good Thing: On August 7, Novant Hospital is holding a Mental Health First Aid (Adult) class (they also host classes for first aid for children). It seems like a long way in the future to plan for August, but these classes fill up fast. You’ll learn to know risk factors and warning signs of mental illness, a 5 step action plan to help someone who is showing signs of a mental health problem or crisis, and how to connect with that person and find appropriate support for them. After the class is complete, you’ll receive certification and the ability to create a profile on the Mental First Aider portal.

Morning Minute: Thursday, June 13, 2019

News About Town: On Monday night, the Matthews Board of Commissioners approved the budget for Fiscal Year 19/20. The $25,640,229 budget is a 2.95% increase over last year’s budget. The tax rate for FY19/20 is $.28 per $100 valuation, a lower rate than last year, but a higher payment for those with property value increases from the real. Capital Improvement Plan projects include equipment for the Fire Department ($40,000) and police ($15,000). There is $108,000 for improvements to the parking lot at Purser Hulsey and the possible addition of a dog park, $80,000 for a multi-use path on Sam Newell, $22,000 for a multi-use path along Pleasant Plains. The downtown parking lot project is still in debate, so those funds are listed as general downtown improvements ($482,000). There is also $80,000 for public safety. From the General Fund, the Matthews Police Department will add six new officers (two of which will be patrol officers) and the full-time (non-volunteer) staffing model for Matthews Fire & EMS is fully funded.

News Around Town: With school out, the Matthews Police Department is reminding parents to teach kids gun safety. In a Facebook post, the department states, “Whether you are a gun owner or not, you need to educate yourself and your family about gun safety. If your child sees a gun while visiting someone's home or in their vehicle this summer, do they know what to do? If they ask you, do you know what to tell them?” The Matthews Police Department is a Project ChildSafe partner and distributes their free safety kits, which include a cable-style gun lock and safety instructions. If you’re not a gun owner, but need help talking to your kids about gun safety, Project ChildSafe also has plenty of resources to get the conversation going.

One Good Thing: Meet the neighbors of Crestdale and learn a little of the area’s history firsthand this Saturday, June 15. The Crestdale community will be hosting Crestdale Day at the United House of Prayer for All People. Stop by between 11 am and 2 pm for some great conversation and neighborly fun.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, June 12, 2019

News About Town: Last night the Town Council discussed a Special Assessment for four roads in the Streamside Subdivision. The Special Assessment is the process determined by the NCGA for homeowners to petition the town for the needed improvements. The streets were built by private developer Simmons & Beyers, LLC, but were not completed to town standards. Between 2012 and 2014, the town and the developer tried finding an agreement so the town could take over and begin upkeep. That agreement was never reached and now the streets, stormwater drainage, and sidewalks are in disrepair. The issue will come back before the Board at their Monday, July 8 regular meeting.

News Around Town: With warm weather comes more frequent grilling. Make sure you stay safe and actually get to eat that burger. {If the fire department has to pay you a visit, it’s likely everything will end up wet and not in a fun, pool party kind of way.}
We asked Fire Chief Kinniburgh for some safety tips. He advised to make sure your grill is on stable ground and keep it away from pine needles and dry grass. Additionally, if you’re using charcoal, let it cool down in a metal container with a metal lid away from flammable liquids and materials. Mecklenburg County's Wipe Out Waste added once the charcoal is completely cooled, toss it in your rollout garbage bin.

One Good Thing: If you’re a fan of dried meat, today is your day: Happy National Jerky Day! Head to the closest gas station, grab a handful of heavily salted protein, and throw the confetti. It’s time to celebrate!

Morning Minute: Tuesday, June 11, 2019

News About Town: Last night, before the regular Board of Commissioners meeting, the council met with Alta Planning for a presentation on preliminary findings with the downtown mobility study.  Alta staff presented data showing no shortage of parking in downtown, but a shortage of parking close to the entrances of business. One suggested solution is to look into joint parking with private businesses. As an example, Carrboro leases more than half of their public parking from private developers. Alta also presented ideas to connect sidewalks through downtown, such as making the striped portion of the former BB&T into a multi-use path. 

News Around Town: Jansen’s Hallmark, a family-and locally-owned Hallmark shop in Matthews Festival, is closing business. Opened in 1981, the shop has been a mainstay for Matthews. According to comments on Facebook, the availability of Hallmark products beyond the stores, as well as the increasing popularity of online shopping contributed to the closure.

One Fun Thing: One day into summer break and kids are already complaining of boredom. Enter the library! Along with their summer break challenge, each branch has free activities planned. While many of the activities for Matthews are already full, it’s worth checking out and snagging those last available spots. Slaying the boredom monster on a budget? Yes, please!

Morning Minute: Monday, June 10, 2019

News About Town: As Matthews comes to terms with the imminent elimination of the Idlewild/51 roundabout, questions remain both about the short lifespan of the roundabout and the future of the gateway sign planned for that location. NCDOT designed the roundabout for a 10-year design period, at which time they assumed the roundabout would work with a widened 51. Now that the engineering is underway, NCDOT anticipates the car capacity will exceed that of the roundabout. Since 2017, Matthews and Mint Hill have been working collaboratively toward a gateway sign for the roundabout. The sign (design and construction) was estimated at $67,000 (with landscaping the total combined cost for both towns totaled close to $100,000) and has been approved by NCDOT for installation. Now, with the impending widening, the sign would only stand for six to seven years. At the May 28 council meeting, the Board instructed town engineers to redesign the area with a less expensive sign in a way that is more focused on landscaping.

News Around Town: Get out your binoculars to see Jupiter's four largest moons. While relatively easy to see throughout June, tonight is the night to really get a glimpse. That is, if the clouds can clear for the night. If not, NASA has your back. Download the Eyes on the Solar System app for an up-close look at Jupiter that feels like you're on the Juno spacecraft.

One Fun Thing: This Saturday, get a head start on your National Pollinator Week (June 17 – 23, 2019) celebrations at the Matthews Farmers' Market. The Matthews chapter of Bee City USA will be at the market with their honey bee observation hive. Apiculturists will be there, totally ready to share their knowledge and spread the pollinator love. June 1, 8 am-noon, Matthews Farmers' Market, 188 N Trade St.

Morning Minute: Friday, June 7, 2019

All the Fun Things (that we know about):  A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum opens tonight at Matthews Playhouse. The show made it to ASC's Culture Picks for the week, and with all the rain we’re expecting this one’s the Beacon’s Best Bet. It’s indoors, the theater has had tremendous tech upgrades over the past year, and the talent is always top notch. Just make sure you carry an umbrella for the short walk from the parking lot to the Community Center (100 East McDowell Street).

If the storms start and end early, get on over to North End’s The Loyalist for Coffee, Cars, and Charcuterie, a Father’s Day handmade pop-up event. 

Don't forget the art reception on Sunday (June 9) from 2 til 4 pm at McDowell Arts Center. Touch the art, snack on light refreshments, make art.

Charlotte-based Carolina Lacrosse Association will be in full force this weekend at the Sportsplex. The Big South Summer Classic tournament will be on five adjacent fields this Saturday and Sunday, provided the rain holds out.