Morning Minute: Tuesday, September 7, 2021

News About Town: On the afternoon of August 28, Engine 22 of the Matthews Fire & EMS Department responded to an unusual call. In an event we can only describe as taking the “cat stuck in a tree” trope to the next level, the Station 2 crew was called to help a fawn stuck in a fence. The crew was able to release the young deer, which suffered no injuries--save some minor embarrassment and local social media notoriety.

News Around Town: This Saturday, September 11, Independence Harley Davidson (9205 E Independence Blvd.) hosts A Tribute to Heroes, a free event honoring military personnel, veterans, and first responders. The dealership took nominations to honor local heroes, four of whom will be recognized during the event. Honky tonkin’ starts at 7pm with country singers Trey Lewis, Zac Kellum, and Meghan Patrick. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

One Fun Thing: Support the Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association (MARA) by going to see the Charlotte Knights. Purchase tickets (through this link) for the Saturday, September 18th Knights game and a portion of the proceeds will come back to MARA.

Morning Minute: Friday, September 3, 2021

News About Town: Hungry to know all there is to know about local government? Try Matthews 101. This 6-week covers all the ins and outs of local government including police, fire, public works and finance. The program starts on Thursday, September 16 at 6:30pm and is held each Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30pm. The application deadline has passed, but word around town is that there are still a few spots open so give it a go.

News Around Town: The Matthews UMC Parking Lot Concert Series starts again September 18. Kind of like a faith-based Food Truck Friday except on Saturday, the event takes place in the large parking lot at the church, 801 S Trade St. Enjoy the fresh (soon-to-be-fall) air while enjoying community, fellowship, and entertainment. Food trucks start serving at 5 and the music begins at 6pm. On September 18 the MUMC Praise Team will share family-friendly music in the Large Parking lot. Bring your own chairs and money for the Food Trucks: A Worthy Dog, Hungry Howie’s & I Scream 4 Ice Cream. More details here.

One Fun Thing: If you’ve ever dreamt of becoming the next Bill Watterson, there’s a class for that. Character Design for Entertainment with local illustrator Matthew Knapik is a six-week course at the Community Center that covers the basics of drawing a rich character ready for storytelling. Developed for children ages 7 to 12, Matthew will teach a variety of drawing styles like Disney and manga. If six weeks is too much of a gamble, give it a trial run for free on Saturday, September 11 or invest in the single-day crash course on October 16 for $50 (residents).

Morning Minute: Thursday, September 2, 2021

News About Town: The Matthews Police Department wants to know your thoughts on police services in Matthews. The Matthews Police Department Citizen Survey is open through 11:59pm, September 17 and is your opportunity to share what you think is good, bad, or indifferent about the department’s practices. The collected data will directly influence their strategic planning for the future.

News Around Town: It’s time once again for the Matthews Chamber of Commerce Annual Auto Reunion & Motorcycle Show. This Monday (Labor Day, Sept 6) enjoy an array of classic cars and unique motorcycles will take over the town green in front of the town hall from 9 am until 3 pm. Perusing is free at this family-friendly event and the show will go on—rain or shine. Got an antique car to show off? Pre-register to keep the social distancing easy.

One Fun Thing: As all good holidays deserve adequate preparation, you have three days to prepare for Be Late for Something Day this Sunday, September 5. If you opt in, make sure to share your tardiness at your leisure. If promptness is more your forte, the following day, September 6, is Fight Procrastination Day. Choose your festivities accordingly.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, September 1, 2021

News About Town: With the spread of the delta variant Town meetings are back to virtual. Advisory board meetings this month include:

• Veterans Advisory Committee (tonight at 7pm);

• Parks, Rec, and Cultural Resources Committee (Wednesday, September 8 at 6:30pm);

• Matthews Committee on Education (Tuesday, September 14, 6:45pm);

• Environmental Advisory Committee (Tuesday, September 14, 7pm);

• Transportation Advisory Committee (Thursday, September 16, 7pm);

• Appearance and Tree Committee (Monday, September 20, 7pm);

• Planning Board (Tuesday, September 28, 7pm);

• Cultural Diversity Committee (Tuesday, September 28, 7pm).

News Around Town: The community of Matthews has suffered a great loss with the recent death of Charlotte Allstar Gymnastics and Cheerleading co-owner Julie O’Brien. Through programming, Charlotte Allstars serves more than 1,000 youth athletes, largely because of Julie's vision to create a gym with open doors and a philosophy of love. The local gym offered a safe space for virtual learning last year and often opens their doors to community at large on school holidays. Julie passed away August 24 after battling COVID. A GoFundMe has been set up to provide support to her two children.

One Good Thing: Tails are gonna be wagging this Friday, September 3, when the Purser-Hulsey Dog Park opens! The park, located at 3024 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, will open daily at dawn and close at dusk. Two areas are fenced so small dogs (under 25 pounds) can play without getting trampled by their bigger friends. The spigots aren’t running yet, so bring some water for your canine BFF.

Morning Minute: Friday, July 30, 2021

News About Town: Matthews Gives Back is back! Area churches and nonprofits are partnering with the police department for Matthews Gives Back School Supply Drive. If you would like to donate new supplies check out the online shopping list through Amazon. If your child needs supplies, fill out this application or call the HELP Center (704-847-8383). Join the police and the program sponsors for a community cook-out and supply giveaway on August 20 at Matthews Sportsplex Field 6, 1505 Tank Town Rd.

News Around Town: Did you know Mecklenburg County offers limited spots of free pre-k for county residents? Applications are currently open, and the department has extended offices hours to help applicants with the form. The county partners with four- and five-star childcare centers throughout the area to provide pre-k education to children who are or will be four years old before August 31. Find out more or apply online here.

One Fun Thing: Generations Corvette Club will be at Mac’s Speed Shop tomorrow (July 31) at 5pm. The club’s members have Corvettes spanning back to the sixties. Feast your eyes on some metal, satiate your desire for smoked meat, then stay for the aural treat that is singer-songwriter Austin McNeill, who takes the mic at 6pm.

Don’t Forget:

• Tuesday, August 3, 6pm - 9pm: National Night Out with Matthews Police at Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade. This annual event, in it's 37th year, encourages neighborhoods to meet as one community and get to know each other as well as the Officers who serve it.

• August 17, 7pm: Matthews Board of Commissioners Candidate Forum will take place at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 381 Crestdale Rd.

Morning Minute: Friday, July 23, 2021

News About Town: As is tradition, there will be no second Board of Commissioners meeting this month. The next meeting will be August 9.

Several advisory board meetings are coming up over the next two weeks. The Planning Board and Cultural Diversity Committee both have remote meetings scheduled for this Tuesday (July 27) at 7 pm. The following week the Veterans Advisory Committee (August 4, 7pm) and the Board of Adjustment (August 5, 7pm) will meet.

With the expiration of the Governor’s COVID Emergency Declaration on July 31, all board and advisory board meetings will resume as in-person meetings on August 1.

News Around Town: Filing has closed for the 2023/24 Board of Commissioners campaign season.
Current Mayor John Higdon will run unopposed. Eight Matthews residents have declared candidacy for the Board: Dani Burnham, Renee Garner, Gina Hoover, Heather Spicer Laws, Ken McCool, Mark Tofano, John Urban, and Larry Whitley. The first candidate forum will take place at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 381 Crestdale Rd., on August 17 at 7pm. Election day for Matthews commissioners is Tuesday, November 2, 2021.

One Good Thing: It was a busy night on the green (green-adjacent?) in front of Town Hall as interested community members attended the Silver Line open house. A steady flow of people visited pop up tents with details of the soft plans for the future Silver Line. The open house provided opportunity for input and feedback on the alignment, priorities, transit oriented design, and station design. The highlight of spending time engaged with the town on a hot summer evening? A cup of flavored Italian ice as a thanks for participating.

Don’t Forget:

• Tuesday, August 3, 6pm - 9pm: National Night Out with Matthews Police at Stumptown Park, 120 S. Trade. This annual event, in it's 37th year, encourages neighborhoods to meet as one community and get to know each other as well as the Officers who serve it.

• August 17, 7pm: Matthews Board of Commissioners Candidate Forum will take place at Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, 381 Crestdale Rd.

Cascades--Cinquain by Lorraine Stark

Cascades

Sunlight’s
rays silently
warm dried red clay river
beds, as if all the water was
flowing

By Lorraine Stark

Image via Unsplash photographer @daniel_sturgess

Morning Minute: Thursday, July 15, 2021

News About Town: This past Monday the Board of Commissioners held their regular meeting at Town Hall. A public hearing was held for Zoning Application 2021-730/Williams Road subdivision. The hearing was continued until the August 9 board meeting. The former JC Penney building will have a new resident soon--the façade for At Home was approved with a few minor conditions. The Board also discussed future board's salary. An increase could not be approved, salary increases must be approved during the annual town budget process.

News Around Town: Candidates are throwing their hats in the ring for the 2021 Board of Commissioners election. John Higdon has filed for reelection as mayor. Six Matthews residents have declared candidacy for the Board: Dani Burnham, Gina Hoover, Heather Spicer Laws, Ken McCool, Mark Tofano, and John Urban. Filing closes Friday, July 16 at noon. Election day is Tuesday, November 2 of this year.

One Good Thing: On Friday, July 16, the Fire Department and Police Department will go toe to toe at Stumptown Park (120 S. Trade Street), and this time they’re out for blood. Support the department dearest to your heart by donating blood with One Blood during the annual “Battle of the Badges” blood drive event. Stop by the park between 2pm and 8pm to give, but make sure to let them know which department you support. The department with the most blood banked wins bragging rights! Walk-ins are welcome, but schedule an appointment for a smooth and easy process. Aside from feeling good from giving, you’ll also receive some swag, including a free first responders t-shirt, a $20 eGift card, and a wellness checkup.

Don’t Forget: CATS will host a Transit Oriented Design input session on July 22 in front of Matthews Town Hall, 232 Matthews Station St. The outdoor, family-friendly event will take place from 5:30 to 7 pm. The County and community partner StarMed Healthcare will provide walk-up vaccinations during the meeting. Visit Starmed.Care or call the MCPH at 980-314-9400 for more information.

Look Up, a richtameter by Lorraine Stark

Look Up

Look up
said the angels
Their soft voices echoed
over the sound of bells ringing
I saw their reflections in a puddle
so beautiful and breathtaking
I knelt down before it
when one whispered
Look up

By Lorraine Stark

Image via Unsplash photographer @831gaberodriguez

Morning Minute: Monday, July 1

News About Town: Fire Station 1 in Downtown Matthews recently received a facelift, nip/tuck, and augmentation. Ok, actually the façade was given a fresh coat of paint, the sign dropped the word “volunteer,” and an LED-illuminated scramble (logo) was installed. The new scramble (replacing the previous volunteer version) will also be used on patches for uniforms and printed on tees. This new branding is the next step in transitioning from a predominantly volunteer department to a predominantly career department, a major change for fire-protection services for Matthews.

News Around Town: This Sunday, July 4, is Free Fishing Day in NC. Though bait, tackle, length, and daily possession regulations still apply, fishing licenses are not required on Free Fishing Day. The NC Wildlife Commission lists two spots in the ‘105 to fish: Squirrel Lake Park (1631 Pleasant Plains Rd.) and Col. Francis Beatty Park (4330 Weddington Rd.). Meck County Parks and Rec lists Idlewild Road Park’s (10512 Idlewild Rd.) two-acre pond as another fishin’ hole. Need equipment but don’t know if you want to invest in your own rod? Call the Community Center (704-321-7275), loaners are available for fishing at Squirrel Lake.

One Important Thing: Matthews Community Farmers’ Market is celebrating 30 years of supporting local agriculture. In honor of the milestone, the market is going 30-for-30, asking supporters for a $30 donation. Each donation will further the market’s efforts in fostering the next generation in the agricultural community, expanding educational programs, and providing wholesome foods to vulnerable members of the community. Give here.

Don’t Forget:

• The Town of Matthews Parks, Rec, and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee meeting taking place on July 14, 2021 at 6:30pm to discuss an upcoming mural project by Osiris Rain at the Loyalist.

Morning Minute: Wednesday, June 23, 2021

News About Town: Put on your shaggin’ shoes, the Matthews Summer Concert Series continues this Friday with beach music from Blackwater Band. Dinner-fare and dessert food trucks open at 5pm and the music starts at 6pm. No tickets are needed. Don’t forget to pencil in July 3 for the 4th of July Concert featuring The Tim Clark Band.

News Around Town: Tonight’s your last chance to catch the Charlotte Independence at the Sportsplex when they host Charleston. Independence moved to the Sportsplex in 2017, their fourth home since their inaugural season in 2015, with the intention of moving to American Legion Memorial Stadium. Doors open at 6:30pm and the game starts at 7. Get your tickets here.

One Fun Thing:

Don’t Forget:

• The Town of Matthews Parks, Rec, and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee meeting taking place on July 14, 2021 at 6:30pm to discuss an upcoming mural project by Osiris Rain at the Loyalist.

Blue in Bloom, a poem by Lorraine Stark

Blue in Bloom

Small petals
form clusters
pompous against
green leaves
not too big
mind you not
too small just
enough to make
you notice and
sigh in awe
from puffy
masterpieces
against a brick
garden wall
blue in bloom
hydrangeas

By Lorraine Stark

Image via Unsplash photographer @shimikumi32

Greater Matthews Habitat Accepting Homeownership Applications

“Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity (GMHFH) is excited to announce, that after a three-year pause, they will be accepting applications to purchase a home through their New Homeownership Program July 7th, 8th, and 9th.”

Image via Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity

Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity (GMHFH) is excited to announce, that after a three-year pause, they will be accepting applications to purchase a home through their New Homeownership Program July 7th, 8th, and 9th. Applications can be completed online or a paper copy can be picked up from their office at 2447 East John St. during the application period. There will be a non-refundable $25 application fee.

“In a time where the housing market is booming for many, we know the dream of homeownership is simply out of reach for the majority of Americans. Habitat for Humanity plays a crucial role in ensuring hardworking families have access to homeownership opportunities.”

— Natisha Rivera-Patrick CEO, GMHFH

If accepted into the program, the partner family will be purchasing a GMHFH home for the appraised value with an interest-free mortgage through GMHFH. In lieu of a down payment, partner families complete 250 “sweat-equity” hours volunteering on the construction of their home and in the Greater Matthews Habitat ReStore. To cover the financial costs of the home’s construction, GMHFH is looking to partner with local corporate, faith, and civic groups to serve as sponsors on this home.

“In a time where the housing market is booming for many, we know the dream of homeownership is simply out of reach for the majority of Americans. Habitat for Humanity plays a crucial role in ensuring hardworking families have access to homeownership opportunities,” says GMHFH President & CEO, Natisha Rivera-Patrick. “The effects of COVID have impacted every aspect of the market, driving construction costs to an all-time high. Now, more than ever, we need support from our community. We are actively seeking sponsors and volunteers to support our build efforts.”

To qualify for the program, applicants must be a resident of Matthews, Mint Hill, or Stallings for the past 12 months, have a need for a decent, affordable home (current housing situation is substandard, overcrowded, costs more than 30% of gross income, etc.), meets the HUD Median Income Requirements, and must be able to pay back an affordable mortgage.

The full list of qualifications and the list of necessary documentation to complete the application can now be found on the GMHFH website at gmhfh.org/apply. Greater Matthews Habitat is an Equal Housing Lender. The construction of the home is expected to begin this fall. Community members can support the GMHFH program and the construction of this home by donating at gmhfh.org/give. For information about home sponsorship, please email sarah@habitatmatthews.org.

Morning Minute: Monday, June 21

News About Town: Several advisory board meetings are coming up over the next two weeks. The Tree and Appearance Committee meets in-person tonight at 7pm at the Community Center . On Tuesday (June 22) at 7 pm, the Planning Board (virtual meeting, info here) and the Cultural Diversity Committee (virtual meeting, info here) have scheduled meetings. On Thursday, July 1, the Board of Adjustments meets in Town Hall at 7 pm.

News Around Town: Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity (GMHFH) is excited to announce that after a three-year pause, they will be accepting applications to purchase a home through their New Homeownership Program July 7th, 8th, and 9th. Applications can be completed online or a paper copy can be picked up from their office at 2447 East John St. during the application period. There will be a non-refundable $25 application fee.
Find the detailed list of what’s needed to complete the application on the Habitat website. Construction of this home is expected to begin this fall. Want more info about home sponsorship? Email sarah@habitatmatthews.org.

One Important Thing: Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is hosting a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Community Meeting online tomorrow, June 22. The virtual meeting will provide information and an opportunity to discuss station locations and the desired development along the Silver Line, which will stretch from Belmont to Matthews, and possibly into Union County. Watch and participate through chat on the CATS YouTube channel. Have questions to ask? Email them to LYNXTODStudy@publicinput.com.

Don’t Forget:

• LYNX Silver Line Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Virtual Community Meeting Tuesday, June 22 at 5:30pm via CATS YouTube page

• The Town of Matthews Parks, Rec, and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee meeting taking place on July 14, 2021 at 6:30pm to discuss an upcoming mural project by Osiris Rain at the Loyalist.

Morning Minute: Friday, June 11, 2021

News About Town: The Board of Commissioners meeting agenda for Monday, June 14, is available online. The meeting will be hybrid, so those wishing to watch online can use Zoom (link here, meeting ID 940 6541 3904) or listen by calling toll free 888-788-0099 and enter the meeting ID 940 6541 3904. A livestream of the meeting will also be available via the Town of Matthews YouTube Channel. For more information, including the process for public comment, visit the town website.

The Board will meet at 5pm to discuss town hiring practices.

Some items of note for the 7pm meeting include, but are not limited to:

• Recognizing Pollinator Week;

• Several planning items, which are typical of first-of-the-month meetings;

• The first in the process of possible rezoning for a microdistillery. The application will be accepted as part of the consent agenda.

• Selection of a consultant for visioning of the town-owned 355 East Matthews St. property.

• And consideration for a 5k in Matthews.

News About Town II: On May 24, the Police Department held their Annual Awards Ceremony at the Matthews Community Center. A number of awards were presented, mostly for actions that flew under the radar of public recognition.

• Jay Gurian, of Union County Emergency Management, was presented a Mutual Aid Award for acquiring COVID vaccinations for Matthews Police Officers from extra doses that were not being utilized by community residents.

• - Lt. David Ruby and Communications Supervisor Jennifer Williams were given the Civic Achievement Award for their self-initiated fundraising work raising money to assist two Matthews Police officers that were having financial hardships.

• Officer Chuck Blevins, Officer Mark Wilson, Sgt. Chris Duryee, and Officer Hoza Scott responded to a call for service for a person in distress. Upon arrival, the officers found a male and female who appeared to be a narcotics overdose. These officers were presented a Life-Saving Award for their teamwork administering life saving techniques until Medic could arrive and render further medical care.

• Lt. Steven Rozina, Detective Marlon Cockerham, Officer Kevin Osuch, Crime Analyst Amanda Bruner were awarded a Unit Citation for their work within the Street Crimes Unit in locating and apprehending a suspect that was wanted in a Homicide investigation and multiple shooting incidents in Monroe, NC.

• Det. Lori Valdes was awarded a Police Commendation for her dedication to an elderly woman who was being abused by their adult son. Det. Valdes continued to work with the woman and family members after the investigation to ensure that the victim was safe and had received follow-up services.

Don’t Forget:

• Matthews Playhouse has two more performances of Godspell at Stumptown Park this weekend (June 12 and 13, both at 7:30 pm). The tickets are $10 a person (minimum $20) per four-person pod.

• Cruise for a Cause: Jekyll and Hyde’s Fathers Day Car Show and Cruise, 316 N Trade St, Matthews,Sunday, June 20, noon-2pm.

• The Town of Matthews Parks, Rec, and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee meeting taking place on July 14, 2021 at 6:30pm to discuss an upcoming mural project by Osiris Rain at the Loyalist.