Model Tested: 2015 Kia Soul EV Engine: electric motor, 109 horsepower 210 lb-ft torque  Transmission: 1-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive  EPA Ratings: 120/City—92/Highway—105/Combined  Base Price: $33,700  As Tested: $34,625  Performance: Good acceleration 0-60 mph approximately 12 seconds Lots of torque 27kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery … read more

Purpose Boutique, a Bremerton-based women’s clothing and accessories boutique and online retailer, has launched its first branded empowerment dress line. The dress line is designed to flatter most body types and is made in the United States by survivors of injustice. “Purpose will … read more

Model Tested: 2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Power Hardtop Engine: 2.0-liter I-4, 167 horsepower 140 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission rear-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 21/City—28/Highway—24/Combined Base Price: $29,450 As Tested: $32,935 Performance: Strong engine Good acceleration Excellent gearbox, short, precise throws Good … read more

Model Tested: 2014 Lexus GX460 Luxury Engine: 4.6-liter V-8, 301 horsepower 329 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission four-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 15/City—20/Highway—17/Combined Base Price: $60,715 As Tested: $62,770 Performance: Very solid, confidence-inspiring chassis Smooth, reasonably powerful V-8 Rear air suspension with auto load … read more

When we send someone flowers, they are usually sent to express a sentiment. Wishes of love, sympathies, regrets, new birth and death all get scribbled on the little card tucked into the arrangement. “Those of our time do use the flowers in sallads … read more

On Feb. 6, a new business project began in downtown Bremerton that does not include the famous little Pyrex Museum. For 10 years, the Amy Burnett Gallery provided commercial space for the not-for-sale vintage bowls and cookware that once so captured hearts and … read more

Bird feeding provides many benefits for winter birds in the Puget Sound area yards. The key to the conservation of bird populations is in providing the habitats needed for their natural reproduction and sustained survival. Interaction and education are the ultimate keys, because … read more

If you’ve thought about taking on new gardening projects this year but are not sure where to start, gardening classes can offer you just the right boost — you can learn from the experts and walk away with ideas for your own garden. … read more

Use Mylar for a Creative Splash This photo shows Tom Piehl, an extraordinarily talented artist, paperhanger and painter, installing large-size panels of Henri Matisse art on the wall from the top of the counter all the way up to the edge where the … read more