Ask any gardener, hiker or picnicker — the region’s wasp population got its sting back. “Compared to recent years, the number of wasps is considerably up,” said Richard Zack, Washington State University entomologist. Equipped with sharp stingers, craving sugar and searching for water sources in a parched landscape, yellow jackets and paper wasps have been […]
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The West Sound Magazine blog is your destination for information and tips about living in West Sound — home, gardening, outdoor recreation, things to do and more.
Posted inThe Outdoors
Best Hikes With Kids around Western Washington, Part 1
Editor’s note: While the weather is still gorgeous, are you trying to pack in as much outdoor times as possible? If you have little ones, hiking can be a challenge. This excerpt was adapted from hiking expert Susan Elderkin’s book, “Best Hikes With Kids: Western Washington” (Mountaineers Books, April 2018), recommends several hikes around our […]
Posted inCommunity News
Aug. 25 Fly-In & Car Show to Showcase Vintage War Bombers, Helicopters, Classic Cars and More
Enjoy a day on the flight line during the Bremerton National Airport’s Fly-In & Car Show. Previously associated with the Blackberry Festival, this year the Fly-In will take place Saturday, Aug. 25. The event will pack even more unique flight experiences than ever before, with Historic Flights from Mukilteo bringing its B-25 “Grumpy” and T-6 […]
Posted inThe Outdoors
Fire Smoke Stretches Across the Northwest — How to Stay Safe
Just as we thought the haze and smoke in the air was due to clear out last week, a fresh wave enveloped us this week. It’s not just a problem in the Puget Sound region — the entire Pacific Northwest and much of the West is experiencing unhealthy air quality. That means you may have […]
Posted inAround West Sound
Cabaret to Raise Funds for Antibullying Resources
Join Michelle Abad and a bevy of stars from the BPA stage for a one-night-only cabaret to raise funds for antibullying resources in Kitsap County. As reported by the Dispute Resolution Center of Kitsap County, “bullying is a widespread, serious problem that can happen anywhere … and can cause serious and lasting harm.” Distressed at […]
Posted inAt Home
Back-to-School Shoe Shopping: Finding the Right Fit
As you’re counting down the last days of summer, you’re checking off to-do lists to make sure everyone is ready to head back to school. While binders, calculators and combination locks may be required, new shoes are almost always at the top of the list to accommodate growing feet and new fashion trends. According to […]
Posted inCommunity News
Lads and Lassies Asked to Give their Treasures to Benefit Communities In Schools of Peninsula
Communities In Schools of Peninsula will host its 2018 Jack Sparrow’s Birthday Bash Benefit 5:30-9 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 23, to raise funds for empowering students to succeed both inside and outside the classroom. The annual fundraising event has continued to grow in popularity over the years, just like the organization’s school support programs in […]
Posted inAuto Talk
DIY Car Care Everyone Can Do
While taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, there are few simple vehicle checks that you can easily learn and do yourself to save a little money and help keep their vehicles running efficiently all summer long. The Car Care Council provides the following tips for […]
Posted inAt Home
The Proactive Parent’s Checklist for Back-to-School Success
A new school year is quickly approaching, and while you probably have supply lists and bus schedules in hand, there are a few other things parents should tackle to get a head start on the back-to-school season. Prepare kids for the best school year yet by handling these important tasks that sometimes are overlooked during […]