Morning Minute: Wednesday, September 30, 2020

News Around Town: During Monday night’s Board of Commissioners meeting, the Board received an update about the NCDOT bridge project on South Trade Street. Little new information was shared, but the representative expects the project will be complete toward the end of the year. To hear the discussion, tune in at 47:06 on YouTube.

One Good Thing: We all know Women That Inspire who deserve recognition. Use that admiration to fund the Sandy Marano Women Build house for Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity! Honor an incredible woman by making a (minimum) $10 donation to Matthews Habitat and share why she inspires you. Habitat will write their name and your message on the construction materials for the home, send a letter letting the woman know she has been honored, and share the story on Habitat’s social media. Habitat for Humanity has a long tradition of writing messages to the future homeowners on the materials of this home, and this campaign will symbolize that this home is being built with the support of the amazing women in our every day lives.

Don’t Forget: Vote for COS Kids up to 10 times a day in the $25,000 Neighborhood Assist Grant contest from State Farm. The contest ends October 2 and winners will be announced November 4.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, September 29, 2020

News Around Town: As the Census Count has been taken, the end date was set for the end of October. With COVID, the end date was moved to the end of September. Now that end date is in question after a federal judge in California ruled the Census must continue the count. Once again, the expected end date is October 31. The Justice Department has appealed the decision. Either way, if you haven’t been counted, do so before the end of day tomorrow (September 30).

One Good Thing: Backporch Treasures (the thrift shop behind the HELP Center) has a new program to give back to America’s heroes: “Backporch Treasures Honoring our Heroes” monthly discount program. Beginning on October 1, healthcare workers get 10% off their entire purchase all month long. In November, they will offer military members and veterans a discount. The giving will continue each month by offering a discount for those who give back each and every day.

Don’t Forget: Vote for COS Kids up to 10 times a day in the $25,000 Neighborhood Assist Grant contest from State Farm. The contest ends October 2 and winners will be announced November 4.

Morning Minute: Friday, September 25, 2020

News About Town: The Board of Commissioners will go into closed session after the regular meeting this Monday. There are nine distinct reasons a Board can go into closed session as dictated by state legislation; the vast majority of public meetings are conducted with open access for the public in a transparent manner. This particular closed session is to consider acquisition of real property, which falls under North Carolina General Statute 143-318.11(A)(5). For a deeper dive, Port City Daily News recently published a full article detailing closed sessions.

News Around Town: With over 6% of North Carolina receiving unemployment benefits, utility payments may be a difficult burden this winter. Piedmont Natural Gas has suspended nonpayment disconnects (the Executive Order preventing utility shut off expired in July) and is offering relaxed payment agreements to customers. The company also has resources for financial assistance listed on their website.

Don’t Forget: Vote for COS Kids up to 10 ties a day in the to win a $25,000 Neighborhood Assist Grant contest from State Farm.The contest ends October 2 and winners will be announced November 4.

Morning Minute: Thursday, September 24, 2020

News About Town: The Board of Commissioners meeting agenda is available online. Once again, the meeting will be conducted remotely. To watch live, the meeting is available via Zoom (link here, the meeting starts at 7 pm, Monday, September 28). A livestream of the meeting will also be available via the Town of Matthews YouTube Channel. To listen live, call toll free 888-788-0099 and enter meeting ID 943 2490 0093. For more information, including the process for public comment, visit the town website.

Items of note include: Funding for the Sam Newell Multi-Use Path project and reimbursement at a later date as well as funding options for Greylock Ridge Road extension. Both projects have some level of complications due to NCDOT’s budget shortfall.

News Around Town: Tonight, at 5:30 pm, CATS is hosting an online virtual public meeting about the Matthews segment of the Silver Line. Check out the CATS website for a guided “tour” of the information available so far, as well as an opportunity to provide feedback. Tune in tonight and have a chance to ask questions. Next Tuesday, September 29, they will host a meeting about the Union County segment. For tonight’s presentation, log on via YouTube and ask questions in the chat box. You can also call in (1 646-558-8656 Webinar ID: 819 6947 0303   Passcode: 701367), but will not have the option to participate.

Don’t Forget: Vote for COS Kids up to 10 ties a day in the to win a $25,000 Neighborhood Assist Grant contest from State Farm.The contest ends October 2 and winners will be announced November 4.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, September 23, 2020

News About Town: Matthews Fire and EMS has been using social media to share important tips for National Preparedness Month. If you missed the series, here are their resources for readying your home: make a plan, gather a kit, be informed before disasters and emergencies happen, know what to do in case of flooding, and read up on their resources for families with kids.

One Good Thing: Good cause for the COS (Kids)! COS Kids is a finalist to win a $25,000 grant from State Farm.Starting today, Wednesday, September 23, U.S. residents who are 18 and older with a valid email address can vote up to 10 times a day for their favorite cause at www.neighborhoodassist.com. The contest ends October 2 and winners will be announced November 4. This is one of the few times you really can and should vote often.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, September 22, 2020

News Around Town: In case you missed the Irvins Creek Greenway update this past Saturday, you can find information about the project online (take the survey then scroll to the bottom for the info). Irvins Creek Greenway will connect portions of northern Matthews, initially between Idlewild Road Park and Crown Point Elementary. Eventually the greenway will extend 1.5 miles, from Lawyers Road in Mint Hill to McAlpine Creek Greenway in Charlotte, with connections to Crestdale Middle School, and the Sam Newell Road Multi-Use path.

One Good Thing: If you didn’t know, today is National Voter Registration Day. Grab your favorite eligible non-voters and a computer and get them registered. Companies like Seventh Generation will be celebrating on social media. Join in the fun by searching #NationalVoterRegistrationDay and #VotefortheNextGenParty. To round out your virtual celebration, take an online tour of the Museum of the New South’s current exhibition, Counting UP: What’s on Your Ballot. The exhibit features internationally known artists’ interpretation of what it means to vote.

Morning Minute: Monday, September 21, 2020

News About Town: Last Monday, in a 6 pm special meeting, the Board of Commissioners received an update on the Transportation Subarea Model. The Subarea Model is a glimpse at traffic projections and street uses in Matthews into the foreseeable future. This Model was approved by the previous Board after the John Street Working Group determined a preferred alternative design to the John Street Super Street plan. The good news is that current and planned future transportation projects will likely alleviate NCDOT's anticipated congestion on John Street. To learn more about the conclusions of the model, view the meeting on the Town’s YouTube channel.

News Around Town: Just as first quarter progress reports were being written, CMS determined a calendar for Plan B Plus students to return to school. In a 6-3 vote last week, the Board approved a phased plan to return:

• Phase 1: Pre-K would return October 12

• Phase 2: K-5 would return November 2

• Phase 3: 6-8 would return November 23

• Phase 4: High School would return December 14

District 6 CMS Board Member Sean Strain, who represents Matthews, was hoping for students to have an earlier return to the classroom.

Morning Minute: Friday, September 18, 2020

News About Town: The Town of Matthews Parks and Rec has created a remote learning program for students ages 5-12. For parents who work and may be feeling the tug between leaving kids at home and working, Crews Recreation Center (1201 Crews Road) will be facilitating learners Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 3:30 pm following the school calendar. While the intention is to complete school day work, the program will also include recreational activities and social time, all while observing COVID safety protocols. The cost is $95/week, and discounted rates are available for siblings and students that qualify for free/reduced lunch. A limited number of scholarships are also available. For more info, contact Charles Smith (phone: 704-708-1289).

News Around Town: This Saturday, (virtually) learn about Irvins Creek Greenway. This Mecklenburg Country trail will be developed in sections, the first of which will run from Idlewild Road to Lakeview Circle, providing a connection between Idlewild Road Park and Crown Point Elementary. The important details: register here for the online public meeting tomorrow, Sept. 19, from 11 am to 12 pm. For additional information please contact: Katie Lloyd at 980-266-0691 or Katie.Lloyd@mecknc.gov.

Morning Minute: Thursday, September 17, 2020

News About Town: During Monday’s Board of Commissioners meeting, the Board voted to approve an additional two hours paid leave for town staff on the November election day each year. Commissioner Ken McCool stated when proposing the idea, “On Election Day, many Americans face conflicted loyalties: to job or to country. Many Americans opt not to vote because they are unable to take time away from work to cast a ballot – and it shouldn’t be that way.” After vigorous discussion, approval for time off passed in a vote of 6-1 (Commissioner Urban voted against).

News Around Town: If you’ve ever been to a Christmas Made in the South craft show, you know the impossibility of social distancing…they can bring out a crowd. The organizer, Christmas Made in the South, a Matthews-based business, is sharing their talent online. Follow along on their Facebook page and watch for giveaways!

Creative’s Corner: Don’t forget: the Matthews Chamber of Commerce is taking their annual ArtWalk & MusicFest virtual for 2020! If you’re an artist or craftsperson, send in an application to participate online. Be a part of the event and show off your work to a whole new audience. The virtual event runs October 3 through 19. Submissions close September 19. The Chamber needs sponsors, too!

Morning Minute: Wednesday, September 16, 2020

News About Town: Curious about the Silver Line? CATS is hosting an online virtual public meeting about the Matthews segment on Thursday, September 24. Check out the CATS website for a guided “tour” of the information available so far, as well as an opportunity to provide feedback.

The Art for Veterans class meets on Tuesdays (a new day). Veteran Katrina Todd attends a painting class for veterans at the McDowell Arts Center in Matthews. Photo by Eileen Schwartz

One Good Thing: If you’re worried about properly filling out an absentee ballot, join Michael Dickerson, Director of the Board of Elections, and NC Representative Brandon Lofton (District 104) on Facebook Wednesday, September 23 at 6:30 pm. They’ll walk you through the process and then take time for questions.

Morning Minute: Tuesday, September 15, 2020

News About Town: Several advisory board meetings are coming up. The Silver Line Task Force meets this this Wednesday at 7 pm via Zoom. The Transportation Advisory Committee meets at 7 pm on Wednesday, September 16, via Zoom. The Appearance and Tree Committee will meet on Monday, September 21, at 7 pm on Zoom. Tuesday, September 22, will be a busy meeting day for advisory committees. The Economic Development Advisory Committee is holding a remote meeting at 4:30 pm; while the Planning Board, and the Cultural Diversity Committee will meet at 7 pm at Town Hall.

News About Town: Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) is blooming up and down the greenway. According to the US Forest Service, “Jewelweed has a long history of use in Native American medicine. When applied topically, sap from the stem and leaves is said to relieve itching and pain from a variety of ailments, including hives, poison ivy, stinging nettle, and other skin sores and irritations.” Next time you take a walk, see if you can spot the bright “jewels” along the woodland edge.

Morning Minute: Monday, September 14, 2020

News Around Town: There has been a lot of talk on NextDoor about the rezoning of the property at Trade and Weddington Roads (2020-715). The Public Hearing for this project will be the regular Board of Commissioners meeting tonight, September 14. The meeting starts at 7 pm.

Public comments can be submitted before and up to 24 hours after the public hearing by email to matthews@matthewsnc.gov or by calling 704-708-1222.

To comment during the Public Hearing, by telephone or Zoom, you must register in advance with the Town Clerk by calling (704) 708-1222 or emailing matthews@matthewsnc.gov. To make a live comment you must register no later than 4:00 pm on today, September 14, 2020. More info can be found here.

The Basics:

Location: 1700 Weddington Rd. The site is 16.825 acres. Four Mile Creek passes through the northern portion of the parcel, creating a large SWIM buffer and flood plain. Just under 3 acres would remain undisturbed, open space.

Existing: R-15 Minimum lot size 15000 square feet; Proposed: R-12MF (CD) Multi-Family, Conditional Use - Lot area varies based on type of uses and number of dwellings.

The proposed design includes a multi-family complex with townhomes and apartments (maximum of 131 units).

One Good Thing: Female breast cancer represents the second highest diagnosed new cancer of all types of cancer. Two leaders from the Matthews Police Department have stepped up to shine a spotlight on men’s roles in the fight against breast cancer by joining the Real Men Wear Pink campaign. Chief Clark Pennington ($526) and Public Information Officer Tim Aycock ($325) are using the power of pink to raise awareness and money for the American Cancer Society's breast cancer research, patient services, and education around screenings and risk reduction. The officers have vowed to raise a combined total of $10,000.

Morning Minute: Thursday, September 10, 2020

News Around Town: Is your dog the most precious pooch in town? Would you consider Fido the finest fella around? Send in your photo of Floofy McFlooferson to the Town Parks & Rec Department between September 1-30, 2020. Online voting will begin on October 23 and conclude on October 30, at 5:00 pm. Include why your dog is “Matthews’ Finest Fido.” The contest is open to Matthews residents only, The winner will get some great prizes and a spot in the Matthews Alive parade next year!

One Tasty Thing: Thursdays are $20/dozen day at Your Mom’s Donuts (11025 Monroe Road, 704-771-2911). This week they’re offering Keep pound(cake)ing, chocolate mascarpone almond, oatmeal cream pie, and maple bacon. Square donuts, round mouth hole. Open from 7 am until whenever they sell out. Ordering ahead is suggested and payment is currently credit card only.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, September 9, 2020

News Around Town: There will be a little less sparkle in the Community Center this Holiday season. Matthews Ballet and the Town of Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resource Department made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 performances of The Nutcracker Ballet. Auditions and rehearsals usually start in September, and with precautions and safety measures in place, it will be detrimental to the Nutcracker experience that is part of the holiday experience in Matthews.

One Fun Thing: Read the Greater Matthews Habitat Gratitude Report. Now there’s some good news!

Morning Minute: Tuesday, September 8, 2020

News About Town: National Collect Rocks Day is coming up and the Town of Matthews is ready to celebrate. Join the town on September 16 for free rock painting. Drop in between 10 am and 11:30 am at the Community Center (100 E McDowell St.) Masks and social distancing are required.

News Around Town: Fullwood Market opened last week in the spot that was formerly Domenico’s and Outlaw BBQ (131 E John St B). Stop in for coffee, ice cream, all sorts of bottled beverages and pantry items like coffee and olive oil. The market expects to open the kitchen soon (today?) and will offer sandwiches. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

One Fun Thing: Cotton Gin Printing has a fun new offering: rental yard signs. Want to tell the neighborhood your SO is turning the big Five Oh? They’ve got you covered!