Latest news with #CATS
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
CATS adds 100+ new vehicles to its fleet, improving customer comfort and reliability
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Charlotte Area Transit System officials are showcasing their latest additions to their fleet. They've purchased more than 100 new vehicles over the last 18 months, including fully electric and hybrid buses priced up to $2 million. The new vehicles include: 56 paratransit vehicles 69 Gillig local buses, including 15 battery electric and 54 hybrid buses. 5 'Over the Road' MCI buses for express services CATS also entered into two service operations contracts, which further add to the new vehicles serving CATS customers. This includes new microtransit vehicles, through a partnership with MV Transportation, and the initial deployment of 24 vanpool vehicles, through a partnership with Commute with Enterprise, launching July 1, 2025. 'This new fleet is a testament to our dedication to our customers. We are proud to offer a public transportation system that serves the evolving needs of our community,' said Interim CATS CEO Brent Cagle. 'We know many of our riders are returning to the office, traveling to appointments and exploring our community. We hope our customers will be pleased with these new products as they utilize the system. CATS encourages all residents and visitors to experience the new fleet by choosing to hop on board the next time they are heading out into Mecklenburg County and be sure to use the CATS-Pass App to ensure your wayfinding experience meets your needs.' Officials say these new wheels are replacing old vehicles, some of which have been in use for two decades. They say it's part of their efforts to meet passenger requests for amenities and make the fleet more sustainable. Riders can experience Wi-Fi-enabled buses, enhanced wayfinding technology, improved comfort and better accessibility. Every new bus includes cameras with audio capabilities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
After Mecklenburg County's transportation bill passes Senate, do Charlotte residents support the tax hike?
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Mecklenburg County's transportation bill, also known as the P.A.V.E Act, is on the governor's desk awaiting his signature. It will then be up to local leaders to garner support of the one-cent transit sales tax. Gov. Josh Stein is reviewing the P.A.V.E Act now and will have 10 days to take action on it. After getting his approval, it's going to be all hands on deck for Mecklenburg County officials, who have between now and November to convince voters to stand behind the sales tax. 'I want to know how that plan will impact the area where I live right now,' said Wendy Pascual, who lives in east Charlotte. Many people are asking how this will affect them, as they work to figure out where they stand on the proposal. CATS adds 100+ new vehicles to its fleet, improving customer comfort and reliability 'What is that they want to do with the thing and how will that impact the community and to be able to make a decision and decide if I want to support it or not,' said Pascual. While some aren't on board yet, others are full-steam ahead 'I think it's more than worth it,' said David Thomas, who lives in east Charlotte. 'We got to make this investment and we don't put the money in and the city's economy can hurt from that.' Dozens of east Charlotte residents gathered at a town hall hosted by Charlotte City Councilwoman Marjorie Molina on Thursday. They were there to learn more about the tax referendum, which is expected to generate nearly $20 billion over the next 30 years. 'Right now, I think we do have a pretty short runway right to get our community members up to date,' said Molina. Officials detail plans to improve Mecklenburg County bus stops, but they need a one-cent sales tax to do it Charlotte leaders recognize the hurdles they face over the next few months to sell people on the idea. They're optimistic they can get it done. 'People don't want to pay more taxes, and referendums in other cities have been unsuccessful on occasion like this,' said Councilman Ed Driggs. 'On the other hand, everybody sees the condition on the roads, and I think the story that we're telling about the advantages that they can expect, the rail, the bus, the roads, sidewalks, bike trails. I think people will get excited about that.' Mecklenburg County commissioners will have to hold a vote before the election in order to get the extra tax on the ballot. It's unclear right now when that will happen. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
American Press
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- American Press
Regina 'Gina' Marie Williams Baccigalopi
Regina 'Gina' Marie Williams Baccigalopi, 58, of Iowa, La., passed away on June 24, 2025. Born on Jan. 19, 1967, in Sulphur, La., Gina was a proud graduate of Sulphur High School, Class of 1985, and earned her degree in Education from McNeese State University in 2000. Gina touched countless lives during her years as a high school educator in New Caney, Texas until returning to Louisiana in 2008. She had a deep love for gardening, camping, and what she fondly called 'garage sailing' always on the lookout for hidden treasures and good stories along the way. Gina was also a lifelong lover of the arts. She danced from the age of eight and never lost her passion for movement and music. A devoted theatergoer, she was a season ticket holder to Theatre Under the Stars in Houston for over 20 seasons. Her favorite production was CATS, and one of her fondest memories was being invited on stage to dance with Rum Tum Tugger. Gina's love of music was just as strong. She found joy and connection in the sounds of her favorite artists, especially The Black Crowes and her 'soul sister,' Janis Joplin. Gina is survived by her loving husband, Glenn Baccigalopi; her father, Eugene (Ginger) Williams, and her brothers, Michael (Tanya) Williams and Chad (Kimberly) Williams; step-daughter Chelse (Dustin) Willis, and grandchildren Maddox, Miles, Monroe and Mari. She was a cherished aunt to Alexandra, Katelyn, Eden, Evan, Elliot, Drew, Dylan, Quinn, and Cameron Williams, and a beloved great-aunt to Eleanor, Olivia, and Kinsley Williams. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sandra Ann Denton Williams. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in her honor at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Fenton, La., on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 10 a.m. The Rev. Jom Joseph, Celebrant. Cremation will follow the service under the direction of Johnson & Brown Funeral Home of Iowa. Visitation will begin Monday in Johnson & Brown Funeral Home of Iowa from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m., with a rosary recited at 6 p.m. and will resume Tuesday from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Inurnment will be in Grandlake Sweetlake Cemetery at a later date Pallbearers assisting in her service are Evan Williams, Elliot Williams, Drew Williams, Clint Brightwell, Cody Caldwell and James DeRouen. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Gina's name to the charity of your choice. Gina will be remembered for her love of God, generous heart, joyful presence, and the love she shared so freely with her family, friends, students, and all who were lucky enough to know her, and we will all miss her very much. Words of comfort may be shared at: Johnson & Brown Funeral Home.
The Advertiser
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Advertiser
Todd McKenney steals show in CATS but true star is controversial: review
We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. We're used to seeing him in musicals like the Boy from Oz or judging C-grade celebrities on their dancing skills, but Todd McKenney's hilarious portrayal of Asparagus (Gus) the old theatre cat, thankfully, only briefly involved tights. First of all, the character just needed an old scruffy coat, and secondly, it would have been akin to seeing your uncle prance around in lycra. Sure, he looked great, but I don't need to see it. Although playing two parts, his role of Bustopher Jones, the dapper, well-fed cat was also covered up in a smart, black coat. Phew. Read more from The Senior: His comedic timing in both roles was purfect, but as Gus he truly shone. His storytelling, singing and dancing skills enlivened the audience, gaining the biggest laughs of the night. Forty years after CATS made its Sydney debut in the Theatre Royal, the musical returned to the same theatre in front of an appreciative crowd on June 19. The stellar cast also included the operatic voice of Mark Vincent who, after winning Australia's Got Talent in 2009, has had a successful recording and theatre career. Playing the cat leader Old Deuteronomy, Vincent commanded the stage, truly transfixing his audience with regal moves and his booming, baritone presence. Kudos to him for sitting on the stage, almost lifeless, during the 20 minute intermission - delighting the audience. But the true star of the show was much more controversial than all the reality stars in the constellation - the 1980s! Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash hit is truly a product of its time, debuting in London's West End in 1981 - and it shows itself as an '80s child more than his other productions, such as Phantom of the Opera (1986). And for this reason, many people detest it. But what's wrong with the '80s? Why not enjoy two hours of nostalgia? And sure, while some of the synth music felt like it belonged in an episode of Miami Vice just before Crockett and Tubbs busted another drug ring - I loved it. Prince once said to me, the reason he loves playing in Australia was "because we appreciated '80s music". Well, he said it to the audience at his concert in 2012, but I was there. And why not appreciate the time when CATS had its first life and pounced onto the stage as a fresh faced kitten, to the delight of audience-goers the world over? But I was still curious how a new generation would receive the once-contemporary musical, based on the book of poems Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by TS Eliot, when they had no sentimental ties to the 80s. I purposefully didn't tell my 11-year-old date, Joe, anything in the lead up to the show. My nephew's family were under strict instructions not to let the cat out of the bag and tell him any details. And the soundtrack was strictly off limits. His first indication that CATS was wildly popular and maybe a bit different was when we arrived and saw old and young theatre-goers dressed as cats. And although he found the first part a bit confusing and was not quite sure what a Jellical cat was (I didn't really know, either) - he soon perked up with the arrival of the Rum Tum Tugger, with his hilariously understated 'Meow'. Expertly played by Des Flanagan, he added irreverent cheekiness and comic relief. He got all the kids in the audience on board - he was our favourite. Equally as mesmerising was Mr Mistoffelees, played by Axel Alvarez, with impressive ballet moves and accompanied by super-bright pyrotechnics and a magic trick that had the audience gasping. And although our performance saw understudy Aimee Jones replace Gabriyel Thomas in the role of Grizabella, the once glamorous cat, her rendition of the musical highlight Memory was emotional and powerful. And it was then my 11-year-old date tapped my arm: "This is a good song". The interaction of the cats going through the audience made everyone laugh, fascinated children and at times scared the crowd - especially when the bad cat Macavity made a sly appearance. If you want your grandchildren or nieces and nephews to have the full CATS experience - book aisle seats in the stalls - and they'll be face to whiskers with many felines. Just keep in mind CATS is two hours long plus a 20 minute intermission - so take them to a matinee in case they fall asleep in the slower first half. Despite its criticism that CATS is stuck in the '80s, it still stands the test of time - at least with my nephew - who is normally very quick to tell me if something isn't Sigma and is Ohio or any of the words I do not understand. Instead, in the cab ride on the way home, wearing his new yellow CATS hoodie, Joe declared "CATS is the best musical ever, better than Hamilton". That's one win for the '80s, and a zero for the 1700 - 1800's. CATS is on until September 6 at the Theatre Royal, Sydney before heading to Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne. It will be Brisbane's turn from February 2026. Prices start from $69.90. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE.
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Why UK's F-35 still stranded in India, defence sources explain
Why UK's F-35 still stranded in India, defence sources explain Modi-Trump presser: US to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets, India ready for deeper cooperation US F-35 Jets: A game changer for IAF? All you need to know about fighter jets No formal acquisition for F-35 aircraft as yet: MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal Air India Express flight makes emergency landing in Trichy after mid-air scare Aero India'25 to showcase aviation giants from IAF's CATS warrior, to US F-35, watch! MiG-29 fighter jet crashes near Agra after mid-air system glitch; pilot ejects to safety Uttarakhand airlift failure: Chopper falls off mid-air amidst an airlift by Indian army's MI-17 helicopter
