Electric Vehicles (EV) from a beginners perspective

Thank you for taking a few moments of your time to see what I've created. No fluff, just my personal experiences and ways for you to connect and or engage.

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I consider myself a concerned citizen and I want to do my part to improve the environment.

Some suggest EV's or Electric Vehicles as a step in that direction. This led me to take the redesigned 2022 Hyundai Kona EV Limited on a extended test/review ride.

In appearance the Kona EV differs slightly from the gas powered version. In particular the grill and colorways. I enjoyed the subtle appearance with the paint and finish providing various tones and reflections depending on the light.

The interior includes a leather trimmed steering wheel, heated and cooled seats, a 10.25 inch touch screen navigation as well as a wireless charging pad. The Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go was a big hit for me.

(Manufacturers suggested retail price) MSRP $42,500 check for details about current incentives.

The Kona performance was more than adequate. With quick acceleration that reminded me of a go-kart. Merging or passing was not an issue.

The rear row is tight and may be considered cramped. The rear cargo area is small. The 60/40 split seating helps.

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The ~380 mile trip is one I have done before. I've taken the turnpike and other routes going or coming from Western PA., specifically Sharon PA for the Waterfire Sharon Art Event.

Immediately I noticed how the ergonomics led making seating, mirror, communication/navigation adjustments easy.

The steering wheel mounted controls were also fine with me. A little tricky getting used to the navigation menu and correspondence to the digital drivers screen.

I suggest some time familiarizing yourself with the regenerative breaking system which helps to "recharge' the battery. The driver can adjust the levels. In short when the accelerator pedal is released the vehicle brakes. Again I reference a go-kart or a golf cart.

The Kona EV Limited was a hit for me. The appearance, amenities and functionality were right on.

This extended test/review ride gave me an insight to the infrastructure that is needed for EV - Electric Vehicles. Several companies are leading the way and were prominent on my trip.

Walmart stores were the most conveniently located charging areas. I found using the apps available to be more efficient use of time.

This vehicle comes with a charging cable that can plug into a typical 220 outlet. Charging times using this method are very slow. Best for overnight use.

In the near future I would expect most new construction projects to have some EV charging stations. Pay attention to charging rates, kwh, charging speeds and be sure the vehicle is charging properly before/if you walk away.

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https://www.hyundaiusa.com/us/en/vehicles/kona-electric

https://www.waterfiresharonpa.org/

Jacque Howard
My Black Cannabis Experience

My first book is what the title says.

In partnership with Trisha Williams

T.E. Williams

https://ireesky.com/

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The book or booklet-to start will be all things regarding the “King of the Forest.”

Cannabis

I will touch on my first and current experiences.

Share the history and science that I continue to learn and introduce you to the diverse and eclectic people who I’ve met because of this plant.

You’ll hear first account stories, learn about market trends - HEMP.

This will also be the jump off for my ideas relating to cannabis and hemp products. The environmental impact of the industry as well as product and strain information.

Until then enjoy a few images of some flowers

Jacque Howard
A New Era of Skateboarding by Misha Meyer

A new era of skateboarding is upon us, spurred by the serendipitous intersection of the pandemic and

the popular skater girl aesthetic on TikTok. COVID-19 has isolated people, made them restless at

home, and decreased the average family’s income, causing people to crave the active, low-investment

solo-sport that is skateboarding. Compared to a bike or canoe, the skateboard is an apparatus that

even people living in more compact, urban housing can store. And for the first time, skateboarding is

qualified as a sport in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. With all these factors leading to a new dawn for the

sport, it's a wonder that Trenton—the vibrant New Jersey capital—has yet to contain a single

skatepark. 

In the past couple of years, Trenton has seen a rise in skateboard-related events and groups (as well as an influx of skaters simply riding around town), proving that there would be demand for a skatepark. Some of these events have included Freedom NJ weekly skate sessions, pop-up skating and skateboard donation events, and the creation and support for Friends of Amtico Square—an organization that has spearheaded the discussion for a permanent skatepark in Trenton and held free weekly skateboarding lessons open to anyone. Friends of Amtico Square was co-founded by Jacque Howard and Marc Leckington and has only gathered momentum.

Howard and Leckington have big dreams for Trenton’s hypothetical first skatepark, Amtico Square park. Not only will it have a regular skateboarding section, it will also have covered skate ramps for inclement weather, and courts that support tennis, bike polo, “papi” soccer, and more. They envision it becoming a regional attraction that will unite the Trentonian skaters in addition to pulling in other Jersey athletes from neighboring towns. Anyone would agree that the vision for the park is more than ideal—luckily, the plans for the park are also extremely organized, researched, and plausible.

Amtico Square is currently an abandoned dumping lot, but it’s location and attributes give it the great potential to be something better. It’s situated on top of a flood plain where other types of buildings cannot be built, and is next to Assunpink park, placing it in lush green scenery. The square even already contains a concrete base, which is a popular foundation for skateparks. In conclusion, the skatepark is not only the addition of a community center to the city, but the cleansing and removal of an old dirty space.

In June of 2021, the proposal for the skatepark as well as projected images were presented to the Trenton City Council, and met with majority support. You too can become a Friend of Amtico Square and get the project approved by spreading the word, liking the official Facebook page, showing up to local skateboarding events, and reaching out to the Trenton Council to show your interest. With your support.

The artist SHE

 



I caught up with SHE while working on her latest project.  During our chat she mentioned this was a personal one.

https://soundcloud.com/sheismagick/sets/cacoon-epiphanies-you-met-me-a

She makes it very clear her brand of "glitter and color" is about love and support for everyone.  

The message of love yourself is one SHE lives and encourages other to do likewise.  In the advocation realm SHE is wants people to love themselves, their natural self.  

Originally from Rochester NY, SHE now makes Trenton her home.  Her early education at the Rochester School of the Arts in creative writing led her to "spoken word" and "slam poetry" performing.  

At the suggestion of friend and fellow artist Essence Natay SHE took to the stage and I expect she will not look back.  In fact I would say it is safe to say the world is a stage to SHE!

https://youtu.be/9un8-CUg-Pg




Trust Enocan
Trenton 365 blog by Neisha Kelly of Coy Magazine

Trust Enocan Second Day of Summer #sdos2019

Recently Jacque Howard interviewed founder of Enocan Fitness Nacone Martin and Co-Founder of Trust by Tony & Keisha, Tony Jackson.

Nacone and Tony announced their next big community project, the Second Day of Summer 2019.  #SDOS2019 took place on Saturday June 22, 2019 at the Trenton Housing Authority from 12-5p

The purpose of this event was to highlight locally owned businesses, promote community and provide a safe place for family fun. 

The event was supported by the City of Trenton, Trenton Housing Authority, Capital Area YMCA, St. Francis Medical Center, NJ Community Capital, WIMG 1300, Girl Talk, Pivot Treatment and Wellness Centers, Betty's Pop Up Shop and dozens of vendors.

sdos2019@gmail.com

Live music was headlined by Trenton native Grace Little

Have a look at our interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6i76qQ6pMmY
Have a listen to our interview https://soundcloud.com/trenton365/trust-enocan-second-day-of

Images captured by Amans Brindled

























Trenton 365
Lifebridge Technology & Enrichment Centers
Trenton 365 Show blog by Neisha Kelly c/o Coy Magazine https://coymag.wordpress.com/about/

2019
Lifebridge Technology & Enrichment Centers

Recently Co-Executive Directors Leon Crawford Jr. and Jamell Creque were guests on the Trenton 365 Show.

Lifebridge is a nonprofit that serves the greater community of Trenton NJ.  It was created by Jamel and Leon with the guidance of their Pastor do to the public libraries in Trenton closing. 

Jamel was always taught that one man's trash is another man's treasure, so they took computers that people were discarding repaired them.

With degrees in engineering and Computer Science Jamell and Leon use their education as foundations for the programming at Lifebridge. 

Lifebridge offers computer training courses at the Trenton free public Library.  For more information contact Lifebridge Technology & Enrichment Centers on the website http://www.lifebridgetec.org/

Have listen to our interview https://soundcloud.com/trenton365/lifebridge-technology-and

Have a look at the video from our interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6i76qQ6pMmY






Trenton 365
Trenton Thunder Home Opener 2019
Overcast skies and rain were in the forecast but that wouldn't stop the joy of baseball in NJ's Capital City, Trenton.

Trenton has a long history with baseball and from the efforts of the Trenton Thunder we can expect it to continue for many more years.

With several upgrades over the years, Arm & Hammer Park is a wonderful venue for the whole family to take in our national pastime.  Some of those upgrades include more seating and things to keep the younger crowd entertained besides the on field action.

Various food options are available including hot dogs, chicken fingers, fries and the traditional concession stand options.  In addition specialty foods by Chickies & Petes and Trenton's own 1911 Smokehouse BBQ and others offer plenty of food choices for everyone including a NJ favorite Pork Roll and a vegan hot dog.

If you are of age and have an interest in Craft Beer you have more than enough options to choose from.

On the field new manager Patrick Osborn will lead a tightly knitted group of players some of which have spent many seasons together.  Osborn stressed that the focus will always be on development and that the team will play the game the right way.

The Thunder will have local Mercer County NJ talent on display via Outfielder Ben Ruta (West Windsor) and Infielder Brandon Wagner (Princeton)

Have a listen to my chat with General Manager Jeff Hurley prior to the start of the season
https://soundcloud.com/trenton365/jeff-hurley-gm-trenton-thunder

Images courtesy of 78 Ways Studio Photographer Will Foskey























Trenton 365 Show Poet/Spokenword Artist Todd Evans

Written by Vont Leak

On the December 4th broadcast of the Trenton 365 Show, Jacque Howard interviewed poet and musician, Todd Evans. Todd discussed a number of events and gigs that he’s hosted. Todd and Jacque also talked about Todd’s life, his upbringing, his musical abilities and talents and how he’s portrayed them in life. I liked this interview because as a musician it interested me to hear about a lot of open mic gigs that are available in and around my city. As a performer, I became more aware of possible opportunities I can take up to show off my talents. After the show, I briefly talked to Todd about my musical background and he told me to send him some of my work and to look more into some of his upcoming events.


Trenton 365 Show Fine Artist Princess Jenkins
Written by Evelyn Quijivix
November 15, 2018


Evelyn Quijivix
November 15, 2018


Princess Jenkins was a guest on the #Trenton365Show and talked about art and teaching children about art as a passion.

When I first saw her she seemed to know a lot about her passion. She was very passionate about her artwork, creating buildings, sketches etc. She knew her exact points and was not afraid to speak about her true intentions. The way she spoke about her art showed that she cared about wanting to teach to children and accomplish her goal of helping people. While on the live show she expressed that encouraging people was very essential to getting children to seek their true intentions and passions. She also shared that painting was very therapeutic to her. She was very true to herself because she wanted to share her past experiences with us while we had the little meeting. She knew that even though people aka her professors criticized her artwork it did not stop her from achieving her true dreams.   

She talked about how society has a lot of stigma about art and how it is not a real job where you can’t get money. But she wanted to show people there was another way and that it should be the way you express yourself without being judged. She wants to put out to society that you can accomplish your dreams. She expressed that painting is a form of helping with mental illness and depression.
She shared that while achieving our goals having a support system is a huge help. She lastly expressed that her goal moving forward was for schools to have more art programs or after school clubs.
Something she said that A final thought I had The one thing that left me thinking about was she said was to be the best and be who you want to be because it’s your passion and if you don’t listen to the criticism you achieve more than what you thought was impossible.

















Trenton 365
Passage Theatre Solo Flights presents Bicycle Face

BICYCLE FACE
Written and performed by Hannah Van Sciver
https://www.hannahvansciver.com/bicycle-face.html

On Sunday February 17th 2019 I attended the performance of Bicycle Face at Passage Theatre.



Trenton Cycling Revolution aka TCR coordinated a group rate and several members of the advocacy group rode bikes to the one person performance.

The full house was delighted by the efforts of Hannah Van Sciver who portrayed 3 characters each representing one of the following years; 1896, 2016 and 2136.

I was unfamiliar with the term "bicycle face" prior to the performance and appreciate the delivery of information from Hannah.  With fine timing and consistent energy Hannah addressed bits of history regarding women and biking. 

The ~50 minute performance finished with a Q and A session.

Trenton has a thriving biking culture with several residents using bicycles as a form of transportation.  In addition many people making up the diverse population of Trenton utilize biking for recreational, fitness and networking opportunities. 







https://www.trentoncycling.org/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicycle_face

https://www.vox.com/2014/7/8/5880931/the-19th-century-health-scare-that-told-women-to-worry-about-bicycle

Several efforts are happening to promote biking in Trenton such as tours, bike lanes, parking areas and maintenance sites however we have a ways to go educating the masses about safety and infrastructure upgrades.

















Yardley Beer Company - Two Roads Brewery Review

STAY TUNED FOR THE LAUNCH OF THE BEER PODCAST



My first visit for a beer sampling. The brewery I was expecting had to reschedule, no worries Two Roads Brewery was on site. During the sampling I tried the Lil Heaven - Session IPA (nothing watered down here) the Two Juicy New England Style IPA (not "milk shaky" at all) and the Plum and Clementine Gose. I am not usually into "sours" but these were fine. I preferred the Plum which had a unique tartness. In 2018 PA began allowing 6 pack and sales of singles. PA laws are specific to the type of beverages so do a little research before shopping. Prices are comparable to other package goods outlets. All the usual offerings plus a good selection of crafts. Located in a strip center on a well travelled road in the Borough of Morrisville. Lots of surface parking.
 
Response from the owner 6 days ago
Thank you for the super review! Our team at YBC works toward being up on the latest Of Brews News for our customers. Looking forward to seeing you again.

Link to my chat with Sean Huber of Two Roads Brewery
























Trenton 365 Show Jacque Howard interviewed by Vennie Stansbury


Written by Vont Leak

Out of all the radio personalities in the world, two of my favorite to listen to are Jacque Howard and Vennie Stansbury. On December 4th, Vennie interviewed Jacque on Today’s Topic and I literally couldn’t stop laughing throughout the whole segment. These two are the Beevus and Butthead of WIMG radio. For as long as I’ve known them both, I always agreed that they need their own show. I think they could make a funny comedy show where they bounce banter off of one another, take fan advice and questions and have a bunch of hilarious segments. During the interview, Vennie and Jacque went back and forth for a bit making comedic jabs at one another, everything out of love. Then, Vennie started talking about Jacque’s upbringing to the station and how he and his show Trenton 365 earned their spots on WIMG. Jacque also touched on his involvement in his weekly skatepark jam and other civic engagement activities. Jacque is a firm believer in REACH and before the end of the show they discussed the role Jacque plays in all the titles that REACH stands for. No matter what they’re talking about I could listen to Jacque and Vennie all day. They’re my favorite duo and I really look forward to coming to the station every week to see these two and what they have going on.




Trenton Mercer Airport Melinda Montgomery Airport Manager

"Our Airport  -  Your Airport"

When was the last time you considered the Trenton Mercer Airport?

I recently visited the Mercer County NJ owned airport and had the pleasure of a tour from Airport Manager Melinda Montgomery A.A.E. (Accredited Airport Executive) A VERY BIG DEAL!  Melinda J. Montgomery is 1 of 429 in the United States of America who have this accreditation and she is the Executive at Trenton Mercer Airport!





Melinda shared that the Aviation Industry has a need for workers of all disciplines, which led to a chat about the partnership with the Mercer County Community College Aviation Flight Technology Program.




We touched on the relationship with Frontier Airlines and how they feel about being at Trenton/Mercer.

We then discussed the history and planned expansion. 

After an extensive tour I gained a new perspective and appreciation for the community of individuals working together to make this operation a continuous success.

http://www.mccc.edu/aviation/

https://www.statista.com/topics/4254/employment-in-the-us-aviation-industry/

http://www.mccc.edu/aviation/

http://www.mercercounty.org/departments/transportation-and-infrastructure/trenton-mercer-airport/new-developments

https://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/news/2018/07/30/trenton-mercer-airport-add-terminal-hughes.html

https://flights.flyfrontier.com/en/flights-from-trenton

https://mercerme.com/frontier-airlines-seeks-new-lease-with-trenton-mercer-airport/



Trenton 365 Show Musician Tony Jackson
Written by Vont Leak
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSiaLvSlWmMfoR5-S6Y8jOA

On November 20th 2018, I witnessed Jacque Howard interview author, fashion designer and musician, Tony Jackson on an episode of Trenton 365. Tony and Jacque have been friends for years and go all the way back to their days in high school together. As the interview continued, they began to discuss their religious views. Tony explains how he has been in church all of his life and it’s been his “safe haven”. His friends were in the church as well so it was easy for him to cross his two worlds over because they were all heavily invested in it together. Tony then talks about his appreciation for music and how he uses music to connect with God. As a child who didn’t understand much about scriptures in the bible, he used christian music and hymns to understand and talk to God. Jacque brought up Tony’s musical abilities and how he’s used that gift while growing up as well. Tony and his friends actually put together a musical group called “Devoted”. Tony and the other members of the group traveled the world while blessing others with their songs of worship. Jacque dives deeper into the background of Devoted’s experience and more personally, Tony portraying his faith to people as a young man.


Jacque transitions the interview to talk about their love for fashion. Tony and a bunch of guys used to actually get dressed up every single Friday in high school in suit and ties. Tony’s mom was a seamstress with a love for clothes designing too. She worked at two clothing stores in Trenton, NJ so everyone knew who she was. The interview ends with Tony talking about his clothingline “Trust”. “Trust” is a brand of Christian apparel and accessories made for everyone. With different logos and quotes, “Trust” is made for anyone and everyone to be able to rock. The line is available online at www.trusttk.com.


Levitt Amp Trenton Summer Concert Series weeks 2&3 2017
The 2nd of 10 events took place and the 2017 Levitt Amp Trenton Summer Concert Series had its first issue with weather.

Rain forced the concert indoors to the Trenton War Memorial specifically The George Washington Ballroom.  Although smaller than the Patriots Theater the George Washington Ballroom has flexibility with no fixed seats.  

Local Hip Hop Duo Agudos Clef opened the event to a energetic audience.  The Trenton based duo with backing band and DJ showed why they are on the list of bands to see by multiple publications.

Agudos Clef can be seen throughout the region performing at various festivals and venues.

Hailing from Mexico City Mexico, headliner Sotomayor who is self described as a "Latin American electronic music project of the siblings Raul and Paulina Sotomayor.  It is a dance music project that rescues Andean rhythms, cumbia and afro beat and fused them with avant-garde beats."

The local non-profit I Am Trenton was featured.


Week 3 also brought issues with the weather and once again the series was moved inside to the George Washington Ballroom.

Ewing Twp. NJ based Ja-Tun and Random Acts of Soul opened the event to the large crowd eager to see the performance.

Ja-Tun had this to say about being a part of this series.
"Thursdays event with the Levitt Amp Concert series was the best homecoming I could have asked for. As a local artist who has had the privilege of performing around the tri-state area and a few other parts of the world, it was amazing to have the opportunity to open for a Grammy winning artist in front of a hometown audience, many of whom have known me since childhood and watched me grow in this craft. The outpouring of love has been overwhelming. We're looking forward to our upcoming shows at Delta's in New Brunswick NJ and Relish in Philadelphia PA."

Have a listen to my exclusive chat with Ja-Tun

https://soundcloud.com/trenton365/ja-tun-random-acts-of-soul

The Grammy award winning Artist Ja-Tun mentioned was headliner Jeff Bradshaw.  This North Philadelphia born Artist is a soul-jazz and hip-hop/funk innovator and trombone virtuoso.

Jeff Bradshaw has shared the stage with Michael Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Patti Labelle, Erykah Badu, and many others. Throughout his performance he engaged the standing room audience with his musical influences and experiences including a minor fall he took damaging his knee.

Needing a cane to make his way to and from the stage did not stop Bradshaw and his band from delighting the audience and finishing with an encore.

Jamie Parker a representative of TASK - Trenton Area Soup Kitchen was the highlighted non-profit.

TDA-Trenton Downtown Association Executive Director Tom Gilmour provided this.
"Last week's show featuring Ja-Tun & Random Acts of Soul and headliner Jeff Bradshaw was one of our best.  So many Trentonians fought off the thunderstorms and extreme heat to support the Levitt AMP Trenton Music Series.  They were rewarded with an amazing evening of extraordinary music.  Jeff Bradshaw invited two local woman to join him on stage and they rocked the house.  It was truly a coming together of the Trenton community." 

Have a look at some images capture during week 2 and 3 of the series.

https://goo.gl/photos/ETWHVChxpaRZf5Wf7

https://photos.app.goo.gl/Mhe2TxvTJc8mgY0D3



Trenton 365
Jersey City NJ 5th Annual Freedom and Fireworks Festival


It has been several years since I walked around Jersey City NJ.  When my brother lived in the Dixon Mills Complex we would visit the city on a regular basis, enjoying food, taking in the sites, visiting the tourist attractions etc.  Returning and seeing the amount of development clearly shows the commitment to improving the city.

My trip to the 5th Annual Jersey City NJ Freedom and Fireworks Festival began with a departure from the well maintained Trenton Transit Center via NJ Transit.  The train ride, transfer and shuttle were timed perfectly.  Traveling with Filmmaker Will Foskey provided plenty of time for us to discuss current events, topics like media, photography and entertainment as well as what efforts we have in the works.

After arriving our short walk provided me some time to take in the architecture and "in the process" development.  I was very pleased with the communal feel of the city/event with plenty to do for the whole family.  In particular I was pleased to see the "Bike Valet" concept.

The stage area was surrounded by several high rise buildings creating an amphitheater feel.  While checking out the area we were entertained by Jumpin 4 Jerry "Double Dutch" team.  I chatted with Jasmine who is the House Host at a nearby hotel.

After securing our press credentials we headed over to the pier taking in the sights, observing the well designed public space with plenty of seating and wonderful views of NYC, the Hudson River and Jersey City.

We took in lunch from Carlito's Food Truck then it was off to see the music.