For a shrub that looks like it belongs in the tropics, Fatsias are surprisingly hardy in our region. The plant provides spectacular foliar effects to the West Sound garden, whether it is a plain green-leaf species or one of the variegated cultivars. It’s … read more

In the middle of Bainbridge Island, there is an unusual garden gem. “This started out as a permaculture project, but mostly I just have a lot of fun with trees,” says Mark Shaffer. In 1978, Shaffer and his wife, Susan, purchased 1908 farmhouse … read more

Kitsap residents can now recycle their used cooking oil for free at the South Kitsap Recycling and Garbage Facility in Olalla. This is the fourth cooking oil recycling station in the county. Why is it important to recycle used cooking oil? Cooking oil … read more

The Key Peninsula’s two flagship annual events, Farm Tour and Fiber Arts Show, are returning on Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last year, more than 1,100 people from 46 different ZIP codes were reported at one tour location alone. Expect a … read more

Jim Sund may be a familiar name or face to many around West Sound, but especially in North Kitsap. The retired owner of North Kitsap Auto Rebuild in Poulsbo, Sund is a longtime community volunteer who’s been serving on the boards of several … read more

A little-known fact, outside the world of birding, is that there is no such bird as a “seagull.” Rather, the term “seagull” is an informal name given to any member of the Laridae (Greek for “ravenous seabird”) family. Gulls, as they are correctly … read more

Kitsap County 4-H Clubs kick off their new year and a special partnership with the Kitsap Mall at a Welcome to 4-H! event from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13 at the Kitsap Mall, 10315 Silverdale Way NW, Silverdale. Learn more about … read more

Waterfront dining is always popular, but even more so when the food is “fresh, local and delicious,” as The Loft in Poulsbo proclaims on the front cover of the crisp-white menu. Chef Michael Bucholz believes that food should be made from scratch, using … read more

West Sound residents seldom forget how fortunate they are to be surrounded by water. Thousands of miles of shoreline influence everyday activities, especially for those lucky enough to be the stewards of waterfront property. The thought of a seaside garden conjures up romance, … read more