Ally announces layoffs after hiring pause + Paramedics called after pepper spray used on Charlotte school bus

Hey, everyone! Drew here. It’s Oct. 3, Happy Mean Girls Day!

Calling all food truck fanatics!

We’re on the hunt to find the best meal on wheels in the Queen City. CharlotteFive’s narrowed down their list to the final four, so go vote for your favorite!

Here’s your news.

1. Ally cuts bank jobs after hiring pause, says economy forces ‘difficult choice.’

Another major banking company announced layoffs.

Ally Financial, with a large workforce in Charlotte, plans to cut about 5% of its employees. It’s unclear how many positions will be cut in Charlotte.

Chase Jordan shares more details on the layoffs.

2. Paramedics called for students after pepper spray used on Charlotte school bus

Paramedics tended to a bus of Charlotte middle schoolers after a child used pepper spray during a fight this morning, school officials wrote in a email to parents.

Students on Ranson International Baccalaureate Middle School bus were evaluated “out of an abundance of caution,” principal Neodria Brown wrote in the email.

Julia Coin has the latest.

3. Citing public safety concern, DMV leader wants NC to pause Charlotte eCourt expansion

North Carolina’s DMV commissioner is demanding that state court officials delay activating eCourts in Mecklenburg County.

There are claims of a “serious public safety concern” over how the software-powered system transmits data on everything from DWI convictions to fatal crashes is a serious problem. But court officials have no plans to slow down the Oct. 9 rollout in the busiest courthouse in the state, they say.

Tyler Dukes with more.

4. Have you missed What the Fries? It’s back in a new Charlotte location.

Hope you’re a French fry lover, because this next story’s for you.

What the Fries is back. The restaurant known for its gourmet loaded fries, along with burgers and wraps, will be accepting takeout and delivery orders starting tomorrow.

Heidi Finley details where and how you can get your hands on some fries.

5. Some more stories to read

• Celebrate National Taco Day with deals at these Charlotte restaurants

• North Carolina now requires porn websites to verify age. How will that work?

• NC Republicans revive some old map-drawing antics. Even conservatives aren’t happy | Opinion

• How Carolina Panthers safety Sam Franklin went from ‘a meme’ to the team record book

• Q&A: Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood on swinging hammers — and shedding tears — in NC

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This story was originally published October 3, 2023 at 3:06 PM.