With a new year comes a time of reflection. Whether looking for ways to “freshen up” a space or your entire home, or just updating furniture, spring is the time for renewal. If you are in the throes of a remodel or building … read more

A Doctor Seuss garden, a swampy garden, a veggie and herb garden, a rain garden, a water garden including a pond with a rocky stream — that’s just the beginning of a peek at the garden retreat and plant treasure trove of Tracyton … read more

For nearly 40 years, Poulsbo’s Valley Nursery has been a fun and floriferous stop on the to-do list of those with a garden or gardener in the family. Homeowners, plantaholics and day trippers alike from around the Puget Sound area are drawn to … read more

Although Zac Steimle is not a professional musician, he’s been intrigued by the dynamics between an instrument and its player. That natural curiosity, along with a deep appreciation for the art of making string instruments, led him on a journey to start his … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 KIA Sportage SX AWD Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 260 hp, 269 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, All Wheel Drive, Locking Center Differential EPA Ratings: 20-mpg city/25-mpg highway Base Price: $28,400 As Tested: $32,400 Performance: Peppy turbocharged engine combined … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 KIA Optima SX Limited Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 274 hp, 269 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 22-mpg city/34-mpg highway Base Price: $26,800 As Tested: $35,470 Performance: Turbocharged 4-cylinder has V6 power True sports … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT 4-Door Hatchback Engine: 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder, 148 hp, 131 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed Automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 27-mpg city/37-mpg highway Base Price: $19,395 As Tested: $23,015 Performance: Acceleration is adequate, but not exciting … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: Honda Ridgeline RTL  Engine: 3.5-liter SOHC V-6, 250 hp, 253 lb/ft  Transmission: 5-speed automatic, all-wheel drive  EPA Ratings: 15 city/21 highway  Base Price: $37,180  As Tested: $37,990 Performance:  Typically excellent Honda engine and drivetrain Smooth, car-like highway ride … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Mazda CX-5 Sport Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 155 hp, 150 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed manual, Front Wheel Drive (AWD is optional) EPA Ratings: 26-mpg city/35-mpg highway Base Price: $20,695 As Tested: $21,490 Performance: Excellent 6-speed manual transmission and clutch … read more