Together With

Charlotte is full of people who hold it all together—parents, entrepreneurs, caregivers, side-hustlers, volunteers.

But even the most capable neighbors have one thing in common: nobody wants to deal with taxes alone.

This season, Hayes Meeks Financial is providing something Charlotte families say they need more than ever—a patient, judgment-free place to get their taxes done right.

They work with people who haven’t filed yet… who think they made a mistake last year… who have complicated income… or who just want someone trustworthy to walk them through everything.

It’s not rushed. It’s not transactional. It feels like sitting down with a neighbor who actually listens.

If you want clarity, calm, and someone in your corner, they’re booking now.

➡️ Schedule a neighbor-friendly filing session →

Thanksgiving at CLT: Here’s What to Expect This Year

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is gearing up for another busy Thanksgiving travel season. Airport officials say they expect close to 2 million people to travel through CLT from November 20 through December 2.

That’s about 2% fewer travelers than last year’s record high, but don’t let that fool you—the crowds are still coming. The airport expects the biggest rush on the Saturday, Sunday, and Monday after Thanksgiving.

You may have heard about last month’s federal shutdown slowing things down at airports nationwide, but CLT leaders say they do not anticipate any major travel disruptions in Charlotte this holiday week.

In other words, pack your patience, expect the usual security lines, and arrive early.

Travel Tips:
- The busiest travel days are the Saturday, Sunday, and Monday after Thanksgiving.
- Arrive extra early to navigate parking, check-in, and security.
- Follow CLT’s official channels for real-time updates.

Safe travels, Charlotte!

"Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody." - Jane Jacobs

Charlotte will spotlight its thriving startup scene during Global Entrepreneurship Week from November 17 to 23, 2025, officially recognized by Mayor Vi Lyles.

The week, organized by Charlotte Economic Development, will bring founders, creators, and innovators together through more than 20 events, including workshops, panels, and networking sessions.

On November 18, the GEW Charlotte Celebration at Heist Brewery’s Skyline Room promises an energetic gathering for the city’s entrepreneurial community.

Meanwhile, the JA Be Entrepreneurial Competition on November 19 at UNC Charlotte Center City will highlight local middle school students pitching bold business ideas, emphasizing the city’s emerging talent.

Running alongside these events, the HIIVE Program will continue supporting food and retail start-ups, especially those led by under-represented founders.

This year, Charlotte boasts over 2,000 new jobs and nearly $200 million in investments, reflecting steady growth and new expansions from firms like Citigroup and SoFi.

Taniyah McCormick, a junior at UNC Greensboro, has relied more on the Spartan Open Pantry after her $52 monthly SNAP benefits were suspended due to the federal government shutdown.

She’s among nearly 85,000 North Carolina college students affected, highlighting a widening campus hunger crisis.

According to the Student Basic Needs Coalition, almost 30% of students across five North Carolina campuses experience food insecurity.

Many students don’t realize they’re eligible for SNAP, so the Carolina Hunger Initiative launched NC College Food Benefits in January 2025, offering tailored SNAP information and an eligibility screener.

Even with these supports, the SNAP application remains challenging, says Andrew Mails-Saine of the Spartan Open Pantry.

At UNC Pembroke, more than half the students receive Pell Grants; the school provides vital resources and peer guidance for SNAP applications.

With food prices rising and demand growing, local pantries distribute thousands of pounds of food weekly—easing hardship for students working multiple jobs or sending money home.

College students at North Carolina A&T State University are finding vital support through the Aggie Moms Scholarship and Resource Foundation, a nonprofit established by seven dedicated mothers, including alumna Michelle Middleton.

Motivated by rising costs and increasing student hardships, the foundation works to meet pressing needs that often go unnoticed.

Care packages filled with essentials—laundry detergent, snacks, hygiene products—help ease daily burdens for students lacking basic supplies.

Recognizing that emotional health matters as much as financial relief, the nonprofit also provides free mental health support for families, fostering well-being on and off campus.

Scholarships are available through a video submission program, granting funds that directly help students carry on with their education.

The foundation’s impact goes beyond material aid, building a nurturing community of mothers who offer acceptance and reassurance to students far from home.

Charlotte’s Latino-owned businesses are facing serious disruption after a sweeping federal immigration crackdown led to more than 130 arrests in just 48 hours.

Fear and uncertainty have swept through neighborhoods, forcing staples like Manolo’s Bakery to temporarily shut down.

Owner Manuel “Manolo” Betancur described the atmosphere as even more devastating than the pandemic, citing steep declines in sales and necessary layoffs.

Other favorites such as Pisco Peruvian Gastrolounge and El Taco Veloz have also closed, as customers avoid businesses out of concern for safety and the increased presence of border agents.

Despite these setbacks, Charlotte’s community is rallying. Events like Chicas Market are helping Latina entrepreneurs stay afloat, while organizations like International House and Refugee Support Services provide vital aid.

Demonstrating resilience and solidarity, the community continues to champion its Latino-owned businesses, determined to keep Charlotte’s local spirit alive and thriving.

Comal Taco Co. is bringing a Southwest flair to Optimist Hall, taking over the former Marina’s Tapas spot.

Owner Shang Skipper emphasizes honoring Mexican and American Southwest culinary traditions, promising a vibrant menu featuring tacos, queso, house-made salsas, and Arizona’s signature cheese crisp.

Local supplier De La Vega Tortillas will provide all tortillas and chips, keeping ingredients tied to the community.

The menu also includes nachos, fresh guacamole, red sangria, and churros paired with a decadent dulce de leche sauce.

Chef Andres Kaifer—known for Customshop and his previous role at Marina’s Tapas—will collaborate with Skipper on menu design and operational guidance.

Comal Taco Co. will be the third new concept to join Optimist Hall since August, following ESO Artisanal Pasta and Poppycox.

🎉 Queen City Weekend: 6 Can’t-Miss Events

• Southern Christmas Show
  Thu–Sun, Nov 20-23 @ Park Expo & Conference Center – “Kick off your holiday shopping with 420 vendors, festive displays, and Charlotte’s most famous Christmas tradition.”
  
  
• Carolina Renaissance Festival
  Sat & Sun, Nov 22-23 @ Huntersville – “Jousting, falconry, artisan markets, and medieval merriment on the fest’s closing weekend—don’t miss your chance to step back in time.”
  
  
• Ice Skating at The Bowl at Ballantyne
  All weekend @ The Bowl at Ballantyne – “Glide into the season at Charlotte’s outdoor rink—perfect for families, friends, and date nights.”
  
  
• Light the World Giving Machine
  All weekend @ Promenade on Providence – “Make an impact: Use a vending machine to donate meals, books, or support local causes—plus enjoy free family entertainment.”
  
  
• Christmas in the Village
  Sat, Nov 22, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. @ Mint Hill Historical Society – “Meet Santa, shop local crafts, and soak in small-town charm with this free, festive tradition.”
  
  
• Rail Trail Clean-Up + Free Drink
  Sat, Nov 22, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. @ New Bern Light Rail Station – “Volunteer to help keep Charlotte beautiful—score good karma and a free drink for your effort!”
  
  

🤝 Partner with The Queen City Scoop
We’re building collaborations with local businesses, nonprofits, and professionals to highlight their work while bringing more value to our readers. If you’d like to explore a partnership or get your organization involved in future issues, let’s connect →