At one time everyone in America could walk down to the neighborhood café and enjoy a relaxing meal, or just a cup o’ joe. In West Bremerton, thanks to Heidi and Lowell Yoxsimer, you can do this again. Stepping into Hi-Lo’s 15th Street … read more

Leaving a sinking ship, the last thing one would grab would be the family napkin rings. That is a good way to put the issue in perspective. These little treasures are not given much thought, even in our gadget-oriented society. Asking about a … read more

That’s-A-Some Italian Ristorante, facing Liberty Bay, is the longest continuously running restaurant in downtown Poulsbo. Founded by Tom Pelland and Lee Grant more than 24 years ago, the restaurant thrives on its customer-friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where couples come to celebrate life … read more

Castor canadensis Castor canadensis (beavers) are the largest rodents on our continent. They can be 3 to 4 feet long from head to the tip of their paddle-shaped tails and stand a foot tall at the shoulders. Their front feet (with claws for … read more

Scones Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups flour 2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. soda 4 tbsp. sugar 1/2 cup (1 cube) cold butter 1/4 cup buttermilk (Don’t have any? Put some lemon juice into milk until it curdles; usually 1/4 cup.) … read more

Topping Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs (These are Japanese breadcrumbs, which are flakier than regular breadcrumbs. If you can’t find them with the other breadcrumbs, try the aisle that carries Asian food.) 4 tbsp. butter 1/4 tsp. salt Truffle oil to … read more

AMY IGLOI Amy Igloi is a well-known figure in the Port Orchard community. For the past seven years, she’s owned and managed Amy’s on the Bay, just steps from the waterfront in Port Orchard. What are your three favorite places for picnics on … read more

It’s perhaps the most lavish setup ever designed for a smoker banished from the house. Oh sure, Carl likes to barbecue any time of year on his deluxe stainless-steel gas grill and to entertain guests seated on swivel stools at the black-granite countertops … read more

Some houses are best observed in motion. Take, for instance, the home of Sean and Shelley Murphy in Gig Harbor. Sean, a dentist, and Shelley, a former English and Spanish teacher, have four children ranging in age from 5 to 12, so a … read more