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Tax season doesn’t have to feel like a fire drill.

This edition of The Queen City Scoop is brought to you by Hayes Meeks Financial.

Right now, Charlotte households and business owners are opening envelopes, downloading forms, and realizing how quickly tax season sneaks up.

But filing is only one piece of the picture.

If you’re juggling multiple income streams, running a small business, freelancing, or managing family finances alongside work, the real opportunity comes before the rush — when you can slow things down and make intentional choices.

Hayes Meeks Financial helps clients step back and look at the full story behind the numbers:

• Where money flowed last year
• What’s actually deductible (and what’s often missed)
• How today’s decisions affect the rest of the year — not just April

Early-season check-ins are designed to reduce stress, create clarity, and help you move through tax season with confidence instead of urgency.

Appointments are available now while there’s still time to plan — not just react.

Book a financial check-in with Hayes Meeks Financial →

Now, here’s what’s happening around Charlotte this week.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board Weighs Calendar Changes After Winter Weather Forces Closures

Multiple days of snow and icy conditions have interrupted learning across Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, prompting district leaders to consider swift calendar adjustments.

The Board of Education has scheduled an emergency virtual meeting to discuss reclaiming lost classroom time, prioritizing students’ academic progress over using remaining built-in snow days.

With several campuses closed or delayed over the past week and a half, one proposal would convert planned early release days into full school days.

District officials emphasized that spring break and the last day of school are not currently on the table for change.

Safety remains a top concern as decisions depend not only on road conditions but also on the ability to clear school facilities for safe student and staff access.

Families are encouraged to watch for updates, as a board vote is expected soon on which early release days might shift to ensure maximum in-person instruction.

TantrumCon is a board gaming event taking place in Charlotte, NC from February 5-8, 2026.

Described as "The Carolina's Best 4 Days of Board Gaming," it promises a family-friendly environment filled with exciting events and national competition.

Run by the Tantrum House team, the event offers premier, general, and family badges for attendees.

The venue is Le Méridien, and there are various exhibitors and sponsors.

Guests can also purchase TantrumCon merchandise.

For more information or to get involved as an exhibitor or volunteer, visitors can visit the website and fill out a contact form.

Charlotte wine enthusiasts have an exciting date to save as the Winey Grapes Charlotte Wine Festival returns on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The event kicks off at 1:30 PM at the sleek Slate Charlotte, inviting guests to sample a handpicked array of wines in a vibrant, contemporary setting.

Expect a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for reconnecting with friends or meeting fellow wine lovers over curated pours.

With options suited for both casual sippers and adventurous palates, the festival promises a relaxed, upscale afternoon celebrating the best of local and international varietals.

Plan an effortless Saturday out in the city—tickets and event updates are available online.

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your winter weekend with Charlotte’s premiere wine gathering.

Free mental health support is now available for Charlotte residents thanks to a partnership between Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center and Mecklenburg County.

Individuals can access up to eight complimentary counseling sessions at two Community Resource Centers without needing insurance or an appointment.

Licensed counselors offer help with anxiety, stress, substance use, crisis situations, or simply provide a caring ear.

The service runs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Valerie C. Woodard Community Resource Center in West Charlotte and the Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center in North Charlotte.

This free resource is an accessible way for neighbors to find support in challenging times or even just a safe space to talk.

Sharing this information could help someone in our community who needs it most.

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

Charlotte celebrates the return of Dogwood Southern Table & Bar, now reopened inside The Westin Charlotte after its SouthPark closure in 2023.

The relaunch is a highlight of The Westin's $25 million renovation, designed to elevate both hotel amenities and the Uptown dining experience.

Guided by Rare Roots Hospitality founders Kim and Jon Dressler, Dogwood preserves its signature blend of Southern warmth and contemporary Carolina cuisine.

Executive chef Scott Hollingsworth presents favorites like Duck and Dumplings and Baked Pimento Cheese with tomato jam, alongside inventive new plates such as Crispy Carolina Catfish and Pork Shank with roasted vegetables.

Bar director Brittany "BK" Kellum curates a craft cocktail list and a wine selection spotlighting sustainable producers.

The sleek dining room seats 116, complemented by a stylish lounge and wraparound bar, with OpenTable reservations for lunch and dinner.

Restaurants Extend Their Participation in Queen’s Feast: Charlotte Restaurant Week

Foodies have a few more days to enjoy 3-course deals as Charlotte Restaurant Week has been extended at select locations. It's a perfect excuse to try a new spot before the event ends this Sunday.

Check out the restaurants that extended here

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