Editor’s note: Albers Vista Gardens is a West Sound treasure that demonstrates how to garden sustainably and preserve flora and fauna. This excerpt was adapted from Albers Vista Gardens’ founder John J. Albers’ book, “The Northwest Garden Manifesto: Create, Restore, and Maintain a … read more

Gesturing toward a newly planted and bark-covered bed on a sunny slope, Larry Bender said, “It had been a place where I just threw things. I just dug the whole thing up and cleaned it up.” What did he plant there? “Mainly rhodies; … read more

Most homeowners know that large-scale upgrades can potentially lower their monthly insurance premiums. But did you know there are DIY home improvement projects that can also save you a lot of money? By being proactive, you can boost your home’s value and improve … read more

Patsy Surh O’Connell’s life is filled with art. She has studied, taught and created art since she was a child, and has won so many awards for her artwork that she has lost count. As a 4-year-old in Korea, she started “scratching and … read more

Love local beer? How about enjoying the beer for a good cause? “Microbrews for Martha & Mary” returns for the second year, giving the local community an occasion to support Martha & Mary with a fun and festive event benefitting local seniors. Purchasing … read more

Every year for the past 26 years, artists who live in Gig Harbor, Key Peninsula, Fox Island and South Kitsap have opened their studios once a year for the annual Open Studio Tour. OST (as the artists call it) provides a rare opportunity … read more

Model Tested: 2018 VW Golf R Engine:2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 292 horsepower, 280 lb-ft torque Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 22-mpg city, 29-mpg highway, 25-mpg combined Base Price: $40,885 As Tested: $41,735 Performance: Great turbocharged engine Good acceleration in Normal mode … read more

Model Tested: 2019 Subaru Ascent Premium Engine:2.4-liter turbocharged flat-4, 260 horsepower, 277 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 21-mpg city, 27-mpg highway, 23-mpg combined Base Price: $34,195 As Tested: $36,630 Performance: Legendary Subaru all weather performance Strong fuel economy for … read more

Model Tested: 2018 Fiat 500L Trekking Engine:1.4-liter turbocharged I-4, 160 horsepower, 184 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 22-mpg city, 30-mpg highway, 25-mpg combine Base Price: $23,325 As Tested: $25,710 Performance: Noticeable turbo lag Leisurely acceleration A lot of weight … read more