13 minute read
All Charged Up
BY JOHN MARTINSON
LLarge manufacturer-driven car shows are generally huge events with grand booths featuring large turntable displays, bright lights, and presenters giving scripted speeches about the newest vehicles. Some allow attendees to inspect the vehicles, salespeople from local dealerships are often available to answer questions. However, with all of the new electric vehicles coming to market in the next several years, sales staff may not be the most informed.
Photo by Elaine Borseth
On September 10th and 11th, I attended the Fully Charged LIVE 2022 event at the San Diego Convention Center, where the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) acted as both partner and participant. As defined by the organization, the Electric Vehicle Association is North America’s leading nonprofit that accelerates the adoption of electric vehicles, by supporting its 100 chapters and thousands of members as they educate their communities about the benefits of driving electric. EVA is a partner in the annual National Drive Electric Week (NDEW) and in Drive Electric Earth Day (DEED). Here in Arizona, there are EVA chapters in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson, as well as a special Route 66 chapter. Car shows and events in which the Electric Vehicle Association participates or partners are different from traditional shows. The vehicles displayed are clean and shiny like at the big car shows, but the vehicles are primarily privately owned (many wrapped and otherwise modded), and the owners are there to answer your questions about ownership experience, sans scripted marketing. It is a one-to-one, owner-to-prospective-owner interaction, which is, arguably, a better way to learn about the new electric vehicles. EVA Chapters participate in a host of smaller scale events with owner displays and drive alongs each year all across North America.
At Fully Charged LIVE 2022, the Electric Vehicle Association brought owners and vehicles together for just this kind of owner-to-prospective owner experience, offering all Tesla Models (S, 3, X, Y), Ford Mach-e and F-150 Lightning Truck, Rivian R1T Truck, Kia EV6 and Soul, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kona, Genesis EV60, Jaguar I-PACE, Nissan LEAF, Polestar 2, Audi e-Tron GT, BMW i-3, Fiat 500e, Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, Tesla original Roadster, Toyota BZ4X, Honda e, and VW ID.4. Where else can you comparison shop for an EV and have all the different brands and vehicles represented so well? In addition to the cars on display, some owners provided their vehicles for rides and drives, where attendees could take a ride with the owners on the streets around the Convention Center, for a more hands-on driving experience. Vehicles offered included all Tesla Models (S, 3, X, Y), a Chevy Bolt, a Nissan LEAF, a Kia eNiro, and a Porsche Taycan Turbo S. Fully Charged LIVE 2022 also included some EV manufacturers, startups, concept vehicles, and other types of electrified transportation like electric 3-wheelers, motorcycles, UTV’s, electric bikes, skateboards, and scooters. A huge oval mini-mobility track in the center of the hall allowed participants to take the e-bikes, scooters, and skateboards for a spin. A major sponsor of the event was Electrify America, as well as other well-known charging networks and home charger companies. There were also vehicle mods including body kits, light kits, and other accessories.
Interior view of the show-stealer, Aptera Solar-Electric Vehicle with its futuristic cockpit. Photo by John Martinson.
(which offered rides), Arcimoto (which offered rentals), and the impressive Nimbus One (with swappable batteries)… The show stealer was the Aptera Solar Electric Vehicle (Gamma prototype) slated to begin production next year. With prices ranging from $25,900 for its 250-mile range vehicle - and up to $44,900 for its 1,000-miles-on-one charge vehicle - the Aptera, with its daring design, drag coefficient of just 0.13 Cd, and solar panels all over, was the most exciting vehicle at the show. Resistance being futile, I plunked down $70 (special pricing for the event, discounted from $100) for an Aptera reservation…can’t wait. For more information on the Fully Charged show, visit www.fullycharged.show/events.
On site from vehicle manufacturers were the soon-to-be-released Fisker Ocean, Vin Fast VF 8 and VF 9, Indi One, and Zelectric Motors’ VW Microbus and Porsche 912 electric conversions. Also on display from Electric Motorcycle maker LiveWire was the “ONE.” Volcon ePowersports brought a Grunt and a Runt, both of which are off-road, fat-tire bikes. There were two other electric motorcycles on display—a Zero and an Energica. Also of note was the Canoo Lifestyle Vehicle, which NASA recently announced would transport astronauts to the launch pad. Some exciting 3-wheel vehicle manufacturers were there as well, including the Electra Meccanica Solo
Exterior views of the Aptera Solar-Electric Vehicle with built-in solar panels and angled gull-wing doors. Photo by Len Nowak, Aptera Brand Ambassador.
GREENShe’s GREENHe’s
BY JENNIFER & JOHN BURKHART
Gone are the days of tossing meats and cheese on the nearest TV tray and calling it snack-time. Enter the charcuterie board…pronounced “shar-KOO-taree,” an artfully arranged selection of meats, olives, cheese, crackers/toast, and more on a beautifully carved slab of wood. When we weren't stumbling over the pronunciation, we were stuffing our faces with various items from these fancy plates. Here, some healthy alternatives to consider…
Applegate Trio salami
He Said: A wise man once said : Variety is the spice of life, but don't seal that variety in a vacuum bag. Okay, maybe I added that second part, but only because these all tasted the same to me. Every bite was tasty - salty, peppery, or herbal - but variety should be written in very small print on this package.
She Said: For an indecisive person like me, this was perfect. Three flavors in one package will take care of the salami quota on your board. All three were tasty, but my favorite was the herb for that extra pop of flavor without too much spice. Jeff's Garden
Castelvetrano olives
He Said: The humble olive can be used for so many delicious things. These castelvetranos are mellow and buttery. They are a delicious snack straight out of the jar or would go great on pizza, but probably the best way to use these would be skewered in a glass with gin and vermouth. That's right, these are the perfect martini olives.
She Said: Get a jar for each person you invite to share your charcuterie board. That's how good these buttery, creamy, salty bits of yumminess are. You won't want to run out, so just get extra. Can't remember the name? Castelvetrano olives. You're welcome. Nuts for Cheese
Un-brie-lievable
He Said: Nuts for cheese? Yeah, I'm more of a cheese for cheese guy. I'm happy that vegan meat and dairy substitution foods have improved so much since we started writing these reviews, but I fully believe a vegan cheese is an impossible goal. This brie was smooth and easily spread, but it lacked that umami flavor of real brie and had a sharp almost yogurty taste instead.
She Said: What charcuterie board is complete without brie? Dairychallenged? Me, too! There are so many options these days, woo hoo! You can join in the fun with this creamy-salty-spready cashew-based cheese. So darn tasty!
Kourellas
Grill & eat cheese
He Said: I have a love / hate relationship with cheese. I love it, but my body hates me for eating it. So when I say I ate too many of these because they were that good, you know I mean it. Browned and crispy on the outside and chewy in the middle—they were worth every minute of my discomfort!
She Said: I tried browning cheese curds once, and only once. I'm STILL cleaning that pan. So what sorcery is this? A cheese you can grill or saute without it melting?! It's true! A beautiful toasty brown crust forms in the pan, with a chewy, deliciously salty center. What a fun way to eat cheese from your “meat and cheese plate”!
GREENScenes October Events Throughout Arizona
CENTRAL ARIZONA October 10
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Phoenix Fest
Come together with the Indigenous community of Arizona to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day! This festival will be filled with vendors, multiple event stages, art, music, food, cultural exhibitions, the Indigenous Pop-Up Market, and more. The Indie Film Fest will offer film screenings from Indigenous artists, as well as immersive experiences including the Downtown Showdown Skateboard Competition. The family-friendly event will be held in Downtown Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row Arts District. For more info and registration, visit www.ipdphx.com.
Photo by Danny Upshaw
October 2
DIG IN-PERSON: Bountiful Fall Vegetables in the Why-We-Live-Here Season
At the University of Arizona’s Maricopa County Cooperative Extension office, join the U of A’s Maricopa County Master Gardeners and the Desert Institute of Gardening for an educational experience. Autumn has finally rolled back around, and so has the season for certain vegetables. Learn how to make the most of sustainable desert gardening during the autumn and winter months at this informational event. Move in harmony with the Earth during these colder seasons and gain your own beautiful harvest. To secure your spot and for more info, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/dig-in-person-bountiful-fall-vegetablesin-the-why-we-live-here-season-tickets-410656874767.
October 5
City of Peoria: Home Energy Efficiency
Curious about how to cut back on your enormous energy bills? This event put on by the City of Peoria will offer insight into creating a sustainable mindset at home. Learn about some issues that you may recognize and get pointers from an expert on how to dial the issue down for a greener future, starting in your very own backyard. This event will take place at Peoria’s Rio Vista Recreation Center, beginning at 6:00 p.m. To register and learn more, visit www.scitechinstitute.org/events/city-ofpeoria-home-energy-efficiency/.
October 7
Conscious Life Design & Stress Relief Program
Sustainable living includes listening to your own inner voice and working towards whole-body well-being. If stress is sabotaging your attempts at mindful and conscious living, Wind Song Regenerative offers the perfect opportunity to tap into certain helpful skills at this program. From “the serenity of your own home,” learn how to get a handle on negative energy to transition from emotional and physical pain into the inner peace you deserve. To learn more about this virtual event and register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/conscious-life-design-stress-releaseprogram-tickets-328142742777.
October 22
Live Event – Food costs have you down? Grow food at home!
Since rising inflation affects the life of every American, it may be getting harder to keep up with costs. One sustainable solution is learning how to find your own food sources at home. This live class from Argiscaping offers the opportunity to learn how to grow fresh foods in your very own garden. This free event will be held in Queen Creek and takes place from 9 to 10 a.m. To register and for more information, visit www. agriscaping.com/ qcfoodcosts.
NORTHERN ARIZONA October 1
Science Saturday: Sustainable Homes
This program from the Willow Bend Environmental Education Center in Flagstaff offers a chance for kids to learn all about eco-conscious design practices. A collaborative effort with the County Sustainable Building Program, this drop-in event offers hands-on educational opportunities to discover the impact of sustainability and home design. It will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. as one of the Center’s monthly Science Saturday programs. To secure your spot and learn more, visit www.willowbendcenter. org/event/science-saturday-sustainable-homes/.
October 8
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal
This annual disposal event, put on by the City of Sedona and Yavapai County, is for community electronic and hazardous waste collection. Bring your old phones, certain chemicals and batteries, paint, aerosol cans, and more to ensure they are disposed of in a safe and sustainable manner. This event welcomes only those who live in Sedona and unincorporated Yavapai County, so you’ll need to bring proof of residency to participate. The event will be held at Sedona’s City Hall on Roadrunner Drive. For more info, visit www.sedonaaz.gov/ your-government/departments/city-manager/sustainability/ hazardous-waste.
October 16 & 22
Flagstaff Forest Open House
Are you curious about a more eco-friendly approach to endof-life arrangements? Traditional options aren’t known for their green footprint, but Better Place Forests, “a natural alternative to cemeteries,” can help you give back to the Earth. Take an inside look at their sustainable memorial forest in Flagstaff on October 16 and 22. Embark on a guided tour of the forest, consult an on-site advisor, and weigh different memorial tree options as a final resting place for your loved one. To register and learn more, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/flagstaff-forest-open-housetickets-388145873757.
BUSINESS October 13
Best Hire Career Fairs Phoenix Job Fair
Looking for a new career within the Phoenix metro area? Look no further than the Phoenix Job Fair from Best Hire Career Fairs. Dozens of industry professionals will be available to discuss current opportunities, from openings within the agricultural industry and banking to green technology and transportation. Dress to impress and don’t forget to bring a current copy of your resume. Your best and brightest future may just be one conversation away! General admission for job seekers is free of charge. For more info and to secure your spot, visit www.besthirecareerfairs.com/event/phoenix-job-fairoctober-13-2022/.
SOUTHERN ARIZONA October 2
Springs Restoration in the Whetstone Mountains
Presented by the Sky Island Alliance and taking place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., it’s time to help restore McGrew Springs in the breathtaking Whetstone Mountains. Get your hands dirty to help breathe new life into the natural area by joining other volunteers at Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson. You’ll help take out invasive flora and reconstruct a fence to keep cattle out of this secluded spot. You’ll also have the opportunity to camp out on the evening before the full day of Earth-minded activity! To secure your spot and learn more, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/springsrestoration-in-the-whetstone-mountains-tickets-405422408337.
October 5-7
25th Annual Energy, Utility & Environment Conference (EUEC), Tucson
At this exciting event, SCS Engineers will present an incredible opportunity for learning and collaborative consciousness for the Earth at the Energy, Utility & Environment Conference of 2022. With more than 300 speakers, 10 tracks, and more than 100 exhibitors present, you’re sure to leave with more knowledge surrounding myriad sustainability areas. Held at the Westin La Paloma Resort in Tucson, the event will also feature presentations from SCS experts themselves. To register and find more information, visit www.scsengineers.com/event/25thannual-energy-utility-environment-conference-euec-tucson/.
October 11-15
NAAEE 2022 Conference & Research Symposium
Come together with the North American Association for Environmental Education for a week of learning how proper education about the Earth can help to create a greener world. At Tucson’s Westin La Paloma Resort, NAAEE’s annual Research Symposium will be held on October 11th and 12th, and the 2022 Conference will take place from October 12th to the 15th. A diverse approach to our ever-changing world can make all the difference to preserve it for future generations. To register and for more information, visit www.conference.naaee.org/,
October 19
2022 Southern Arizona Tech + Business Expo
A collaborative effort between the Arizona Technology Council and the Arizona Commerce Authority, this tenth annual event will bring together scientific minds from across the state to convene on new technology and business ventures. While the event will focus on many different avenues within these topics, eco-conscious conversations will be held surrounding biotechnology, plus the presentation of a Sustainability Award. To learn more, for pricing, and to register, visit www.aztechcouncil.org/event/2022-expo/.
