New beginnings are the most exciting and energizing times in life. Summer is always a new beginning because it’s a new season. Now is a great time to get fired up and motivated, and start making changes to get to your next level … read more

Walking into Heron Hall on Bainbridge Island is like ambling into a laboratory of building sustainability. Almost everything you eye, touch or feel in this lovely 3,000-square-foot experimental home of Jason and Tracy McLennan is salvaged, reused or repurposed. Take the front entrance. … read more

Being a caregiver for an ill spouse, a disabled child or an aging parent can be an emotionally rewarding journey, as it allows you to demonstrate your love for another person with the tangible action of care. At the same time, however, it … read more

Bob McBride volunteers in several roles in Kitsap County. A Master Gardener, he is involved with various programs at Washington State University’s Kitsap Extension. He also takes care of the Anderson Landing Preserve County Park. Through both staff and Master Gardener volunteers, the … read more

Model Tested: 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T with 4Motion (AWD) Engine: 2-liter TSI, DOHC turbo, direct injection 4-cylinder Transmission: 8-speed automatic with Tiptronic EPA Ratings: 21/city, 27/highway, 23/combined Base Price: $30,230 As Tested: $31,130 Overview: Redesigned for 2018, the second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is larger … read more

While summer is the perfect time for kids to take advantage of days spent away from the classroom, remember not to put valuable skills, like reading, on the back burner. In fact, research estimates that one to two months’ of learning loss can … read more

Thinking of building or remodeling? Now is the time to make that dream bathroom a reality. You have many choices and options, bringing luxuries and new innovation to a room in your home. Sinks, toilets, showers, bathtubs, cabinets, lighting, flooring and more — … read more

Model Tested: Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE Engine: 3.5-liter V6 with direct injection and Hybrid Synergy Drive Transmission: Electronically controlled continually variable transmission (ECVT) EPA Ratings: 29/city, 27/highway, 28/combined Base Price: $41,330 As Tested: $44,080 Overview: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a very smooth, … read more

Models Tested: 2018 Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h Engine: Gas — 5-liter DOHC, V8 Horsepower: 467 • Torque: 389 lb. ft. Engine: Hybrid — 3.5-liter DOHC V6 and 220kW permanent magnet synchronous motors Horsepower: 354 — combined gas and electric Transmission: 10-speed … read more