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City of Washougal Launches HOA and Neighborhood Registry

Washougal, WA — The City of Washougal is excited to announce the launch of its Homeowners Association (HOA) and Neighborhood Registry, aimed at fostering stronger community connections and enhancing local communication. Washougal is comprised of roughly 200 neighborhoods with their own unique character and appeal.

The registry allows HOAs and neighborhood associations to officially register with the city, providing a centralized resource for residents to access information about community organizations. Residents are encouraged to register their associations online to stay informed about city programs, initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration. The city is committed to supporting neighborhoods and strengthening community ties through this new initiative.

“Woven together to create a distinct tapestry, each neighborhood brings its own beauty, its own charm, and identity to the overarching community,” said Sherry Montgomery, Community Aesthetics Program Coordinator. “This registry is a fantastic opportunity for neighborhoods to connect and collaborate. We believe that by working together, we can enhance the beauty and spirit of our community.”

For more information and to fill out the registration form, please visit https://cityofwashougal.us/789/HOA-Neighborhood-Registry.

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Building Industry Group PAC Announces 2024 General Election Endorsements

Vancouver, WA —The Building Industry Group PAC (BIG PAC) has announced its endorsements for the 2024 general election, following a thorough vetting process of candidates based on questionnaires, voting records, and interviews. These endorsements reflect the PAC’s commitment to housing affordability and policies that support the building industry and small businesses throughout Clark County.

BIG PAC’s endorsements for state legislative races include:

  • Rep. Paul Harris (running for District 17 Senate)
  • Rep. Kevin Waters (District 17, Position 1)
  • David Stuebe (District 17, Position 2)
  • Brad Benton (running for District 18 Senate)
  • Rep. Stephanie McClintock (District 18, Position 1)
  • Sen. John Braun (District 20 Senate)
  • Rep. Peter Abbarno (District 20, Position 1)
  • Rep. Ed Orcutt (District 20, Position 2)
  • Sen. Annette Cleveland (District 49)

For Clark County Council, BIG PAC is endorsing:

  • Chuck Keplar for District 3
  • Matt Little for District 4

Additionally, BIG PAC supports James O’Neil for Clark Public Utilities Commissioner.

The 2024 election cycle is critical for Clark County communities, and BIG PAC urges all registered voters to participate in the general election. The PAC has a long-standing legacy of advocating for policies that support the building industry and address housing concerns.

More information on BIG PAC’s endorsements is available at buildclarkcounty.com.

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Strategies to Bounce Back After Business Failure

Starting a business is tough; sometimes, despite all your best efforts, things don’t go as planned. When your business fails, it can feel like the end of the road. But here’s the good news: failure isn’t the end. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger. Many successful entrepreneurs now at the top of their game have failed before finding their winning formula. If your last business didn’t work out, don’t lose hope. Here are five essential strategies to bounce back and set yourself up for success.

Strategy 1: Reflect and Learn From Your Mistakes

Understanding what went wrong is the first step to getting back on your feet. It’s easy to get caught up in the blame game, but this is the time to take a hard, honest look at your business. What mistakes did you make? Were there signs you ignored? Maybe the market wasn’t right, the timing wasn’t right, or perhaps you overspent on things that didn’t matter. Whatever the case, reflecting on what happened can help you avoid making the same mistakes in the future, empowering you to take control of your next venture.

What we see most often is that business owners fail because they need to understand the best ways to manage their time, energy, attention, and money. You can always make more money with the right offer to the right people at the right time. So inventory your failure now: did you have the right offer? Were you making it to the right people? And, if not, how can you solve that before your next business venture?

Strategy 2: Rebuild Your Confidence and Mindset

After a failure, your confidence might take a hit. You might start doubting your abilities, wondering if you’re cut out for business. Feeling this way is normal, but you can’t let it hold you back. Rebuilding your confidence is crucial for your next steps. 

Confidence comes from systems and structure. Do you need to learn to use your calendar to focus on what’s most important? Do you need to learn sales, cash flow management, or marketing? Dial in the clarity around the foundations of great business and commit to understanding what you can do differently next time to generate what you need, when you need it, in alignment with your values.

Your mindset is critical. Instead of seeing failure as an end, view it as a stepping stone. It’s also not a reflection of who you are. Failure is just a thing; it’s neutral. It doesn’t say anything about you or necessarily means you don’t have the temperament or skills required to succeed. So stay optimistic and believe that success is possible with the right approach. Reading books or listening to podcasts by successful entrepreneurs who’ve bounced back from failure can be an excellent focus, filling you with hope and optimism for your next venture.

Strategy 3: Plan Your Next Move Carefully

With lessons learned and confidence restored, planning your next move is time. This isn’t about jumping into another business immediately. It’s about taking the time to think things through and set yourself up for success.

If you don’t know what business you want to create next, research different business ideas. What’s in demand? What are people willing to pay for? Consider your passions and strengths—what do you enjoy doing, and how can that be turned into a business? Look for gaps in the market where you can offer something unique.

Once you have a solid idea, create a detailed business plan. This should include your target market, pricing strategy, marketing plan, and financial projections. A well-thought-out plan can help you avoid the pitfalls of your last venture and give you a clear roadmap. If you need help with this, read to the end of this article, and I’ll show you how to book a call with me for support.

Strategy 4: Secure the Right Support and Resources

No one succeeds in business alone. One of the biggest lessons from a failed venture is realizing the importance of support and resources. This time, ensure you have the right people and tools in place.

Start by building a solid network of advisors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs. These connections can provide guidance, open doors to new opportunities, and offer emotional support when things get tough. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—successful people always do it. 

I can be a trusted advisor through all stages of your business. When you work with me, I will support you, whether with your legal, insurance, financial, or tax-related systems. I’m also here for counseling and advice. And if I don’t know the answer to your question, I will guide you to the right people who can.

Speaking of financial systems, evaluating which financial resources you need is essential. Do you need to secure outside funding? If so, explore different options, such as loans, grants, or investors. Be realistic about how much money you need and have a clear plan for using it. Remember, having the proper support and resources can make all the difference in whether your next business thrives or struggles.

Strategy 5: Stay Resilient and Keep Moving Forward

Success doesn’t happen overnight, and challenges will come along the way. This is entirely normal. The key is staying resilient and moving forward, even when things get tough.

Setbacks are expected for business, but how you respond to them will determine your success. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to pivot or try a new approach. Stay flexible and open-minded, and always be willing to learn and adapt.

It’s also important to celebrate small wins along the way. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small, and use it as motivation to keep going. Remember why you started first and keep your eyes on the prize.

Finally, take care of yourself. Running a business can be stressful, and it’s easy to burn out if you’re not careful. Ensure you take time to rest, recharge, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Burning the candle at both ends is a 

Bouncing back after a business failure isn’t easy, but it’s possible. By reflecting on your mistakes, rebuilding your confidence, planning carefully, securing the right support with my help, and staying resilient, you can set yourself up for success. Failure isn’t the end—it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. With the right mindset and approach, your next business venture could be the one that takes off. Keep moving forward, and don’t give up on your dreams.

Your Trusted Advisor For All Business Ups and Downs

I understand the damaging impact setbacks can have on you and your business. That’s why I offer a comprehensive Business Breakthrough Session, during which we’ll analyze your business foundations and ensure they have the right foundations to succeed. 

Remember, bouncing back from failure is not just about avoiding past mistakes; it’s about building a more substantial, more resilient business that can thrive in the face of challenges. Working together can turn your setbacks into valuable lessons and create a roadmap for long-term success.

Book a call to learn more. Contact us today!

This article is a service of Res Nova Law, a Personal Family Lawyer® Firm. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That’s why we offer a Life & Legacy Planning™ Session, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Life & Legacy Planning™ Session.

The content is sourced from Personal Family Lawyer® for use by Personal Family Lawyer® firms, a source believed to be providing accurate information. This material was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal, or investment advice. If you are seeking legal advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.

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Camas City Council Member Svilarich Arrested, Faces Felony, Misdemeanor Charges

Camas, WA — Camas Police records reveal the details that led to the September 13th arrest of Camas City Council member, John Svilarich. The City of Camas is directing questions on the incident to the police report and county prosector’s office.

Svilarich, 66, according to the police records, was charged with two crimes (reckless endangerment and aiming/discharging a firearm) following a verbal altercation with a fisherman and a pedestrian that occurred on August 31 along the Washougal River Greenway trail in Camas.

The Camas Police Department said the charges against Svilarich stem from a disturbance that “began as a verbal argument between a fisherman along the river, and a pedestrian who was walking along the greenway trail and over the pedestrian footbridge.”

In a document filed by Camas Police detective Gary Manning, Camas Police were dispatched to the scene at the trail just before 8 am on Saturday, August 31 following a 911 call. Daniel Beaudoin, 46, of Portland, reported that a man — allegedly Svilarich — threw a rock at him from a pedestrian bridge and “pointed a firearm at him soon after.”

Police say Beaudoin was fishing when Svilarich, who was walking the trail with John Neumann, allegedly confronted Beaudoin because he threw a cigarette butt on the ground.

“They both yelled and cussed at each other,” police said, adding that Svilarich and Neumann “continued on the trail, north of the bridge” following the verbal altercation . The police report said that when Svilarich and Neumann returned heading south over the pedestrian bridge, Beaudoin told police that Svilarich threw a rock in his direction.

“During this pass (over the bridge), Svilarich was observed, by another witness, looking over the bridge railing two times,” the police report said. “A rock, approximately 5 to 8 inches was thrown or dropped by Svilarich off the bridge, which is at a height of approximately 50 feet above the river” and landed “in close proximity to Beaudoin.”

Beaudoin walked to the trail and “verbally confronted Svilarich for throwing the rock.”

And the arguing continued with both men standing at least 40 feet from one another. The police report said Svilarich allegedly “pulled out a black firearm pistol and pointed it in the direction of Beaudoin.”

The fisherman told police he ran back to the river’s edge and that “Svilarich moved down the main trail path in the direction towards where Beaudoin had been standing, shifting the firearm between having the firearm pointed at Beaudoin and pointing at the ground.”

Camas Police confirmed that Svilarich was carrying a black Walther 9mm semi-automatic handgun “concealed in his back right waistband of his pants.” 

Svilarich does have a concealed-carry license.

In the report, Camas police said “originally [Svilarich] denied having a firearm, then stated he had one but did not display it.”  Svilarich later told police he had pulled his firearm but had not pointed it at Beaudoin but, instead, “had it at ‘low ready’ to protect himself.”

Svilarich also admitted to throwing the rock off the pedestrian bridge “but stated he did not know Beaudoin was in the vicinity of where it landed.”

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The Corporate Transparency Act: Are You Compliant?

The Corporate Transparency Act, a significant law passed in 2021, is designed to combat financial crimes like money laundering and tax evasion. It requires many businesses to disclose information about their owners. While this may seem like an additional responsibility, it’s crucial to understand its impact on your business and take the necessary steps to comply. With the deadline approaching quickly, I’ll also show you how to get the necessary support to ensure your business is compliant, relieving you of any compliance-related stress. 

CTA Basics: What You Need to Know

The CTA is based on lawmakers’ concern about the role of shell companies in facilitating illicit activities. These shell companies are often used to disguise the actual ownership of assets, making it difficult for law enforcement to trace the money flow. Therefore, the core purpose of the CTA is to collect beneficial ownership information. You’ll need to provide details about the individuals who ultimately own or control your business. This includes names, dates of birth, addresses, and passport or government-issued ID numbers.

You’ll also need to provide information about your business, such as its legal name and address and the name and address of a company applicant (usually the person who formed the company). By requiring businesses to disclose their beneficial owners, the government aims to expose shadowy operations. This increased transparency is expected to deter criminals and make investigating and prosecuting financial crimes easier.

Moreover, while the CTA casts a wide net, it doesn’t impact every business. It targets corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) that operate in the United States. However, the definition is broader than just these types of entities. Any business formed by filing paperwork with a state or tribal government is likely covered. That most likely means your business is subject to the law. One general exception is a business structured as a sole proprietorship or partnership. But it’s always a good idea to double-check to be sure. 

How to Comply With the CTA 

Now that you know the purpose of the CTA, how it works, and the impacts on your small business, let’s turn to compliance. To ensure your business is compliant with the CTA, you should take the following steps:

Determine if your business is subject to the law: Understand the specific requirements based on your business structure and formation date. As your Business Advisor, I can help. Book a call with me, and I’ll show you how to answer your questions.

Gather necessary information: As outlined above, collect the details about your business and its beneficial owners.

Choose a reporting method: Decide how you will submit the information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), the government agency responsible for administering the law. This can be tricky, so don’t hesitate to contact me, and I’ll help you with it.

Maintain records: Keep accurate and up-to-date records of the information you provide. If you work with me, I’ll also support you with this. I’ll keep your information on file so it’s readily accessible if needed, and I’ll also support you on an ongoing basis to help keep you accountable for maintaining accurate records. 

Stay informed: Stay current on any changes or updates to the law or regulations. When you work with me, I’ll do this for you and notify you when any changes affect your business, so you’ll never have to worry if your business is at risk.

While these steps provide a solid foundation for compliance, it’s essential to understand the potential consequences of non-compliance. Failing to meet the CTA’s requirements can result in significant penalties, including hefty fines and even imprisonment in severe cases. The penalties for failure to comply include:

  • Civil penalties: Businesses that fail to report required information about their beneficial owners or report incorrect or incomplete information face fines of up to $500 per day until the violation is corrected. These fines can quickly accumulate, leading to significant financial burdens.
  • Criminal penalties: In cases of willful or fraudulent non-compliance, individuals involved can face fines of up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to two years.

As you can see, the consequences of noncompliance – even if it’s accidental – are too significant to ignore. Understanding and adhering to the CTA is crucial to avoid these potential risks. 

Your Next Step

Even though the CTA became law in 2021, the government didn’t start accepting filings until January 1, 2024. Therefore, 2024 is the first year you’re required to submit your information. And the filing deadlines are approaching quickly. Existing companies registered to do business in the U.S. before January 1, 2024, must file by January 1, 2025. Companies created or registered in 2024 have 90 calendar days to file after receiving actual or public notice that their company’s creation or registration is effective (this information comes from your State’s Secretary of State, not the federal government). 

How We Support You to Ensure Your Business is Never at Risk

I understand the complexities of navigating new regulations like the CTA can pose for your small business. These changes can introduce uncertainties and potential risks that divert your focus from growth. That’s why I offer a comprehensive Business Breakthrough Session where we’ll assess your business’s overall health, including its compliance systems. Together, we’ll develop a tailored plan to address any vulnerabilities and ensure your business is compliant with all applicable laws and regulations and positioned for continued success. With my guidance, you can confidently navigate this new landscape and achieve your business goals.

Book a call to learn more about how we can support you in ensuring your business is never at risk of non-compliance with the CTA.

Contact us today!

This article is a service of Res Nova Law, a Personal Family Lawyer® Firm. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That’s why we offer a Life & Legacy Planning™ Session, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Life & Legacy Planning™ Session.

The content is sourced from Personal Family Lawyer® for use by Personal Family Lawyer® firms, a source believed to be providing accurate information. This material was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal, or investment advice. If you are seeking legal advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.

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Columbia Gorge Museum to Open New Exhibition Called ‘Symbiosis’

The Columbia Gorge Museum is excited to unveil Symbiosis, a new art exhibition, opening on October 12 and running through November 22, 2024. Artist Julie Beeler uses forty varieties of fungi to create 825 vibrant natural pigments, dyes, and paints, expressing artistry and educating others about mushrooms as a source of color. 

Beeler draws on the rich history of natural dyes to craft textiles that reflect a deep connection to the natural world. She has collaborated with the Columbia Gorge Museum to showcase her artistry in the exciting and unique exhibition, Symbiosis. 

Beeler’s fascination with fungi evolved into a decade-long exploration of their potential for natural pigments. This initiative led Beeler to collaborate with Chronicle Books on an upcoming release, The Mushroom Color Atlas book, authored by Julie Beeler and illustrated by Yuli Gates. This resource will reveal the universe of colors lurking inside fungi, mirroring the hues found in nature’s vast palette. This publication is slated for publication on September 3, 2024, and will be available for purchase at the Columbia Gorge Museum.

The exhibition opens at 6 pm on October 12, 2024, for members of the museum and invited guests. For more details on the exhibition and to purchase a membership to attend the private opening, please visit the Columbia Gorge Museum’s website. Symbiosis will be made available to the general public on the following day, October 13, 2024.

The Columbia Gorge Museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in Stevenson, WA. It is known for collections honoring the tribal communities from the region, past and present, the largest rosary collection, as well as art and artifacts from industry and families throughout our history. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Every 1st Saturday of the month is free for Skamania County residents.

To learn more, visit https://columbiagorgemuseum.org

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Gluesenkamp Perez’s Bill Passes Committee to Rename Bucoda Post Office

WASHINGTON, D.C. –This week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez’s (WA-03) bipartisan legislation to rename the Bucoda Post office in honor of the late Mayor Rob Gordon unanimously passed the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

In August, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez introduced the bill with the support of the entire Washington House Delegation, and the Bucoda Town Council passed a motion in support of the effort. This week, the Thurston County Board of Commissioners also wrote a letter in support of the legislation.

Rob Gordon served as Bucoda’s Mayor and Assistant Fire Chief, was a lifelong resident of Southwest Washington, and operated a family haul truck business and ranch. He passed away in June 2024 and is survived by his wife, Miriam, and their two children, Jakob and Anna.

“Rob served the town of Bucoda selflessly and proudly for many years as a firefighter, Assistant Fire Chief, Councilman, and then Mayor. He went above and beyond in all he did to make the town a better place for all of its residents. He wanted to make sure it would once again be a place where children, especially his own Jakob and Anna, could ride bikes and play without worry. He loved this small town and gave so much of himself and time to it,” said Miriam Gordon. “I don’t think anyone would disagree with me in saying Rob became the backbone of this town in the short time he was given. He would never expect anything like this and being the humble man he was, he would shy away from it. However, I know if he was here now he would be extremely honored to have the town’s post office named after him. Jakob, Anna, myself and Rob’s family are very thankful for what everyone has done to honor and remember Rob, especially this. Thank you.”

“Mayor Gordon was the epitome of a servant leader, with an incredible work ethic and impact on our community that cannot be understated. He represents the best of Southwest Washington – serving as a firefighter since the age of 16, maintaining his haul trucks himself, and passing on important skills and values to his children,” said Gluesenkamp Perez. “Rob was tough, fair minded, and always gave people the opportunity to be the best version of themselves. His passing is a true loss for our community, but his life of service and dedication will remain forever. I’m grateful to have had the chance to know and work alongside him – and by renaming Bucoda’s Post Office, we can help preserve his legacy and inspire future generations of leaders. I’m glad we could quickly move this bipartisan bill through committee – and I’ll continue working to make it a reality.”

“As a lifelong volunteer firefighter for the Town of Bucoda, Mayor Gordon served his community and protected the safety of his fellow Bucoda residents. As a town councilmember and then as mayor, he was a strong advocate for his community and fought hard to ensure that the town of 587 people was not forgotten about. As mayor he worked to replace asbestos water pipes to improve the safety of the drinking water, he advocated for tourism opportunity and was a strong supporter of the annual “Boo-coda” event which brought thousands to the town, and he was a fighter for public safety,” wrote the Thurston County Board of Commissioners. “If there is anyone who is worthy of this recognition it is Mayor Gordon. … We cannot wait to see this become a law and Mayor Gordon receive this long-lasting recognition.

Perez
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Let Your Imagination Fly With Crystal Jewelry: What Do You Like?

The most unlikely circumstances sometimes spark jewelry trends. In January 2022, the Style section of The New York Times published an in-depth lifestyle article about the substantial resurgence of crystal and gemstone jewelry. Crystal pieces were fashionable in the early 2000s, but they later took a backseat to precious stones until the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, crystal jewelry has been enjoying a strong comeback, particularly in terms of design variety and handcrafted quality.

Two main factors are driving the crystal jewelry trend; one is aesthetic, and the other is spiritual. The aesthetic factor takes into account the substantial variety of new designs. The spiritual factor focuses on social media buzz about the healing properties of crystalline stones, often discussed on Instagram Stories and TikTok videos. This combination of vibe and style is conducive to letting your imagination flow.

Tap Into Your Creativity With Crystals

Gemstones such as aquamarine and ruby have been associated with spiritual healing and inspiration since ancient times. The underlying lore is often provided by our interpretations of Mother Nature’s magic. We associate the miracle of aquamarine, for example, with the calming effects of water. Ruby gemstones inspire passionate protection and resilience. We marvel at the geological processes that Mother Nature enables to create crystalline beauty over millions of years, and we are inspired by all of the Earth’s energy that went into creating gemstones.

The healing properties of crystals are symbolic and inspirational. Color psychology goes a long way into shaping our connections with crystals; for example, blue stones such as aquamarine are often associated with peace and tranquility while red stones like ruby are linked to passion. We are also inspired by the idea of the Earth’s energy contained in the densely packed molecules of stones, thus representing vitality.

Crystal jewelry design allows you to channel your imagination. The shapes of crystals can evoke different emotions and ideas. A pyramid might symbolize power and stability. A sphere might represent balance and harmony. We can also consider how crystals can be set to enhance their aesthetic impact and influence their perceived energy. A delicate pendant, for example, might convey a sense of grace. A bold couture piece could symbolize strength and confidence.

Why Choose Crystal Jewelry

Beyond the aesthetic appeal of crystal jewelry, the right pieces can enhance your well-being, inspire creativity, and connect you to the natural world when you are attuned to the gemstones. Jewelry designers who specialize in handcrafted pieces can tell you that each of their crystal creations tells a story. The elements of the stories are shaped by color psychology, shape design, and the spiritual connections to the Earth that have been perceived for many centuries. An oval aquamarine piece, for example, can tell a story about the strong desire to establish harmony and balance in our lives.

It should be noted that crystal jewelry interpretations may differ across some cultures. In some regions of Southeast Asia, the oval shape is associated with the heart to symbolize love, affection, and emotional connection. In the Americas, oval-shaped crystals are mostly seen as graceful and elegant, thus representing sophistication, refinement, and a sense of style. The story told by an oval-shaped aquamarine pendant can be romantic or coquettish for some people, but for others, it may signify spiritual nourishment. With crystal jewelry, you can get a more intimate connection with Mother Nature because you are wearing one of its most awe-inspiring creations. When you think about how crystals are formed deep within the Earth’s crust, you are inspired by the pure energy of the planet.

Crystal Jewelry Pieces Make Excellent Gifts

Want to impress someone with a gift they can deeply appreciate? Crystal pieces that match your imagination can be unique and thoughtful presents for any occasion. You can choose crystals that align with the recipient’s personality, interests, or zodiac sign. The interpretation of healing properties and symbolic meanings of crystals can convey a heartfelt message and show that you’ve put thought into your selection.

Gemstones are durable and can last for decades, thus making them a timeless and enduring gift. In many cases, crystal pieces become heirlooms that keep the spirit of good vibrations in the family across generations. The tradition of gifting crystal gemstones dates back to ancient times, and it has always been welcomed as a classy practice.

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The Role of Education in the Future of Agriculture

Today, when facing challenges associated with food insecurity, climate change, and sustainable development, education will play a major role in the future of agriculture. From implementing new technologies to promoting sustainable practices, education is the backbone behind people making advancements to ensure we have food, our environment stays healthy, and the economy continues to grow. Education will be the key as we unfold the future of agriculture.

Agriculture And Our Future

By 2050, there will be 9 billion mouths to feed worldwide. However, due to urban expansion and problems caused by climate change, agricultural land is suffering reductions. That is why sustainable agriculture is vital to our future.

Benefits of Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture is a continuous learning process. Farmers and others need to change their methods to reduce their role in harming the environment. At the same time, they need to ramp up food production. This is where sustainable agriculture enters the picture.

There are many benefits to sustainable agriculture. One benefit is the reduction of fuel consumption by planting more perennials. Using crops that come up each year reduces the amount of machinery used. No-tilling farming is a technique that enables the needed carbon in the soil instead of releasing it into the environment. Reducing the number of chemicals and fertilizers to kill pests and weeds through crop rotation is also a benefit. The best part about these practices is they are inexpensive to implement. Farmers in the United States and developing nations worldwide can do it.

Education And The Future Of Agriculture

Agriculture has a long history in the United States, filled with ups and downs. In the 1800s, agricultural education was part of most people’s daily lives. Children raised on farms. The school calendar revolved around the farming schedule. Children did not attend school in the fall and spring because they worked on their families’ farms.

Throughout the early years, the emphasis on agricultural education began to decline. By the 1920s, it was no longer part of the educational curriculum. It did not return to the classroom until 40 years later. Schools began receiving new materials. The United States Department of Agriculture started to help schools create programs relevant to their communities in the early 1980s.

Why Is It Important?

If we do not take the time to teach today’s children about agriculture, what happens to future generations? Teaching children where their food comes from leads to self-awareness.

My teaching children how to grow a vegetable garden or raise chickens for eggs gives them a sense of power. They may not stop the problem of food insecurity, but they can do something to ensure that their families have food.

How do future farmers learn about agriculture jobs if they do not know they exist? Securing the next generation of agriculturalists is necessary. If there are not enough farmers and others within the industry, the price of food will soar. Education is needed to continue to keep food costs reasonable.

Our economy depends on agriculture. The agriculture industry plays a role in sustaining our economy. The more people understand how the industry works and how to maintain it, the more it will continue to benefit our economy.

Learning About Sustainability Is Not Just For Kids

Educating children on agriculture and sustainability is vital to our planet’s future. However, adults can certainly do their share, too. Major changes do not have to happen all at once. Start with some simple changes. For example, stop using single-use plastics. Instead, purchase reusable water bottles, coffee cups, bags, and reused plates and utensils. One reusable water stops approximately 1500 plastic bottles from being tossed away.

Recycling is a fun way to get the whole family involved. Check locally for recycling centers. Consider upcycling; it can lead to a lot of fun. For example, an empty paper towel tube can be the start of a caterpillar art project.

Conserve Water And Energy

Simple things like washing full loads of laundry, turning lights off, unplugging stuff, and adjusting the thermostat can help to conserve energy. It can save you money, too. To conserve water, take shorter showers and turn off the water when shaving and brushing your teeth.

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ELECTION 2024: Rep. Paul Harris Explains Why He’s Running For Senate Seat

Vancouver, WA — Lacamas Magazine recently interviewed Rep. Paul Harris (R-17th LD) about his current run for the Washington Senate. He’s been in the State House for 14 years.

Question: What are the top reasons you’re running for the State Senate?

Balance of government is super important. Checks and balances are essential to good legislation. In the Senate, we are one vote away from the Democrats having a super majority.

Public safety is a major concern. Homelessness is a big issue. When you go to Fred Meyer, you see guards in their stores.

Fentanyl is a real problem. It ties into homelessness, along with drugs and theft. I sponsored the bill to build a big tent in Vancouver that will house 150 people. It would get them off the street immediately. It would stabilize them, and then move them into another facility. We need that. The city will get it done.  We need to be tough on crime. 

Electrical power is a significant issue. For example, the Climate Commitment Act (CCA) is harming our economy. Affordable power has always been an incentive for big businesses to come to Washington, but this legislation is going to increase the cost of power. Businesses say they came here because Washington has clean, cheap, and affordable power. Businesses are wondering if they can afford to come here now; some are afraid to come here. We are flipping the scale and we are very close to harming businesses. Natural gas is needed to fill the void for a while. 

I really believe the CCA won’t make a significant dent in reducing climate issues. 

Because of the CCA, auto fuel costs Washingtonians about 60 cents to 70 cents more per gallon than in Utah. Locally, it’s really impacting us a lot. It brings up the cost of groceries. 

Question: What are the biggest challenges facing SW Washington voters?

Cost of living. My opponent is a mayor and the mayors belong to the Washington Association of Cities. They want to give the cities the authority to raise property taxes up to 3 percent instead of 1 percent. Property taxes are fairly high in Washington, so I don’t want cities to be able to do that. I will oppose that. It would be disastrous for our taxpayers.

The affordability of a home is outrageous, I don’t want to make it worse for people trying to buy their first home.

Inflation. There are initiatives on the ballot that are trying to repeal bad legislation. 

There are initiatives on the ballot that fix or reverse legislation.  Several of these initiatives will lower costs to consumers.  The main one is the CCA or climate commitment act.  This initiative will roll back prices on natural gas and on gasoline and also help stabilize electrical costs in the future.

We are one of three west coast states that are taxing carbon. Washington State is taxing petroleum/ carbon greater than any other state.  We are paying 41% more for natural gas and about 50 cents to 60 cents more per gallon for gasoline than Idaho or other states not taxing carbon. These added costs affect cost of goods in many ways from shipping to manufacturing to filling your gas tank in car or heating your home. It impacts the poor the most as they can least afford it. Voting yes on the initiative will repeal these taxes on carbon.

I believe this is a Federal issue and needs to be addressed by federal rules and regulations.  The idea that Utah is still burning coal for the next 10 years for 30% of its electricity and we are restricting natural gas highlights that this is a National or global problem and not just ours.

Question: Why should voters elect you?

I think we need balance of government. We do not need another Democrat to be elected. Democrats have controlled this state for 30 years, and I believe we need other minds at the table. Not one party has all the solutions. In 2018, Washington had 48 Republicans, and now we have 40. As a result, we are passing legislation that really isn’t helping people. All the money raised from CCA money is being distributed to government agencies. 

When a Republican loses a seat it doesn’t go to a moderate Democrat, it goes to the fringes. Because of that the worst legislation happens. The CCA is terrible legislation. We need moderate legislators who sincerely tackle issues that impact people the most.

Question: What should voters know about you?

I’m an effective legislator representing this district for 14 years. I seek policies that will help people. I’ve lived in the district for 45 years. I’ve raised my children here. I’ve served on the Evergreen School Board. 

To learn more about the Harris candidacy, visit www.electharris.com

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