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Feeling the 2026 money squeeze as January wraps up?

This week's newsletter is brought to you by Hayes Meeks Financial.

We're nearing the end of January, and reality is setting in.

The holiday glow is gone, February bills are lining up, and those first W‑2s and 1099s are starting to hit your inbox.

It's the moment where a lot of Charlotte families, business owners, and creatives look at their accounts and think, "Okay…what is this year actually going to look like?"

If 2025 felt choppy—irregular income, surprise expenses, or bigger‑than‑expected costs to live and work in Charlotte—you're not alone.

But waiting until March or April to deal with it usually means reacting instead of planning.

That's where Hayes Meeks Financial comes in.

They focus on people whose financial lives don't fit neatly in a single box: small business owners, consultants, content creators, and families with multiple income streams.

Their goal is to help you see the full picture—what came in, what went out, what's deductible, and what needs to change before the rest of 2026 flies by.

Right now is a sweet spot to:

• Pull together your 2025 numbers before tax season gets chaotic.

• Talk through how rising costs are affecting your budget or business—and what to adjust.

• Set a simple plan for the next few months instead of trying to "fix everything" in April.

Hayes Meeks Financial is proud to sponsor this edition of The Queen City Scoop and support Charlotte neighbors who want to be intentional with their money, not stressed by it.

Tax season and early‑year planning spots are open now—perfect timing before February fully kicks in.

Book an early‑year check‑in with Hayes Meeks Financial

Here's what's happening around Charlotte this week.

Queen’s Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week returns January 23 to February 1, 2026, spotlighting three-course prix fixe dinners at restaurants across the region.

This event features special menus from beloved local spots like Church & Union and La Belle Helene in Uptown, both celebrated for their standout cuisine and atmosphere.

South End favorites Seoul Food Meat Co. and Superica bring casual fun and bold flavors—ideal for groups seeking a lively night out.

For date nights or unique ambiance, SupperClub and Leah & Louise in Camp North End create memorable, locally inspired experiences.

Reservations during prime hours fill quickly, so locals are encouraged to book early.

If you have an Amex card with dining credits, you can double up deals and stretch your dining budget even further during the week.

Queen’s Feast is the perfect chance to explore Charlotte’s food scene while enjoying exclusive, affordable multi-course meals.

Charlotte is launching EmpowerTech: For Community Leaders, a free workshop series crafted with Smart Charlotte to help local leaders boost their digital skills and confidence.

Over six sessions, attendees will explore vital topics like AI, file management, and digital communication at libraries across the city. Each session features hands-on learning with lab time, expert guidance, and a chance to practice new tech skills.

Leaders can join sessions that interest them and earn the EmpowerTech Excellence Award by attending four or more.

Free dinner is served at every workshop and laptops are optional.

In addition to EmpowerTech, Charlotte is hosting events on smart data, electric vehicle tech, and sustainability—each empowering residents to shape a connected, innovative community prepared for the future.

"The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Mecklenburg County’s Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) is awarding over $2 million in funding for local programs dedicated to at-risk and court-involved youth for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

Sonya L. Harper, Criminal Justice Services director, highlighted the impact, noting these initiatives uplift families and communities.

The JCPC focuses on filling service gaps through prevention, intervention, and aftercare to enhance safety and support.

Recent programs have offered mentoring, mental health support, vocational training, and community tasks.

Organizations interested in funding must apply by February 13 and attend a required session at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center on January 28.

Notably, Team Up Connections has mentored over 500 youths since 2019, with remarkably low repeat offense rates.

The CMPD’s JADE team, launched in 2024, guides at-risk teens toward success with workshops and life coaching.

This broad community effort underlines Mecklenburg’s commitment to safer, stronger futures for its youth.

❄️ Winter Storm Watch: Charlotte Weekend Weather & Stay-Safe Tips

Winter Storm Watch is active for Charlotte through Sunday. Expect:

• Sat (Jan 24): Moderate/heavy snow showers, temps near 30°F / -1°C, up to 1.6cm snow.

• Sun (Jan 25): Ice pellets possible, dropping to 20°F / -6°C with 11.8cm potential accumulation.

Stay safe indoors:

• Stock up on non-perishables, water, flashlights, and battery backups now.
• Charge devices, have blankets ready, and avoid travel if roads ice over.
• Indoor fun: Board games, meal prep, or brewery takeout if you're craving a change.

Full forecast on Weather.com
#CLTwx #CharlotteWinter

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