Model Tested: 2017 Kia Forte EX Engine: 2.0-liter I-4, 164 horsepower 151 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway/28 mpg combined Base Price: $21,200 As Tested: $26,540 Performance: Spritely performance, especially in sport mode Well-sized for city … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Acura MDX AWD Advance Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 290 horsepower 267 lb-ft torque Transmission: 9-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway/22 mpg combined Base Price: $56,400 As Tested: $57,340 Performance: Strong, smooth engine Good acceleration Excellent long distance … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Mazda CX-3 Grand Touring AWD Engine: 2.0-liter I-4, 146 horsepower 146 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, all-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27 mpg city/32 mpg highway/29 mpg combined Base Price: $26,240 As Tested: $28,810 Performance: Sport and regular operating modes Paddle shifters … read more

Bremerton sculptor Alan Neweberg breathes new life into old wood — creating semi-abstract, large-scale, highly finished carvings from fine woods such as black walnut and clear fir. As tall as 9 feet, the sculptures — geometric pieces with straight lines and hard edges … read more

As cold weather arrives, gardeners’ thoughts turn to the best approaches of protecting their overwintering crops and tender ornamentals. Simple structures can benefit gardens year round. The Winter Garden What a treat it is to venture out into the garden in the coldest … read more

Many people want to move because they don’t have enough storage. Let’s be honest, Americans have a LOT of STUFF. I often meet with people who think moving will solve the issue, but often it is just a rearranging of space that is … read more

Getting more out of a vacation starts with finding ways to stretch your travel budget. To help, travel deals publisher Travelzoo recently unveiled the top six destinations where Americans will find the strongest deals in 2017. “We predict three trends will influence travel … read more

Color in the garden does not have to end when the skies turn gray and rainy. Some gardeners even like the challenge of having something blooming or showing color 12 months a year. Here are three very reliable plants that can get you … read more

It might not feel like you alone can have an impact on the environment, but over time, small lifestyle changes can make a substantial difference. Need some ideas to get started? Draw inspiration from the collective efforts of one California olive company working … read more