Melanie Dressel was a banker and the CEO of Columbia Bank. She knew values. She knew the value of small towns like Colville, Washington, where she grew up; and the value of her husband, Bob, and their family. She knew the value of … read more

The unmistakable, booming, Italian-accented, jovial voice of Michele “Mike” Simone leaves no doubt Il Lucano is Gig Harbor’s iconic Italian restaurant. Simone makes the rounds of tables, greeting customers, inquiring about the quality of food and thanking them for patronizing his business. “I … read more

Tom and Tessa Aydelotte of Bainbridge Island know their way around a kitchen. The couple own two restaurants, Doc’s Marina Grill on Bainbridge Island and in Port Townsend, and their livelihood is all about food. So, when their thoughts turned to updating their … read more

Choosing cabinetry for a remodel project or a new construction home is serious business. Really, it is. Cabinetry has the biggest impact on a kitchen remodel both visually and financially (for bathrooms, it is usually the plumbing or tile that comprises the largest … read more

In the early ’70s, my husband’s job took us to Yuba City, California, which lies at the confluence of the Yuba and Feather rivers. The region is a lush growing area for almonds, walnuts and peaches. Our next-door neighbor’s mother grew several varieties … read more

“Abundance” is the name of a Corning pattern on dishes, bowls, casseroles and compatibles. “Abundance” merits product analysis. Think back 27 years when NAFTA was in the wings waiting to enter the trade arena, and Bill Gates was professing to a skeptical audience … read more

Fresh eyes see new possibilities and that is undoubtedly true of Blake (from Texas) and Jennifer (from Tennessee) Yarbrough. They met while studying music at the University of Cincinnati. After graduation, Blake joined the U.S. Navy Band as a French horn musician, and … read more

The kitchen is a cornerstone in any home. It’s where we cook dinner and where we gather with friends and family. Everyone wants a beautiful kitchen, but remember, this is a functional space as well. Choose finishes and materials that will stay on … read more

In contemplating retirement, Kevin and Cheri McCorkle considered options: buy a recreational vehicle and hit the road, maybe tackle more exotic travel or simply remodel their home of 15 years. They chose the remodel. Little did they know that they were embarking on … read more