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Avoid These Eight Mistakes as a New Landlord

Being a new landlord comes with unique challenges only you can understand, including a few missteps. Avoid these mistakes as a newbie landlord.

Stepping into the world of property management is a rewarding venture, offering a steady stream of income and a chance to build significant wealth. However, the path for a new landlord is often riddled with unexpected challenges. Many first-time property owners learn difficult lessons through trial and error as they encounter preventable issues.

Navigating the complexities of tenant relationships, property upkeep, and legal requirements demands careful planning and attention to detail. This guide will walk you through the eight most common mistakes new landlords make and should avoid. By understanding these potential pitfalls, you can protect your investment, maintain positive relationships with your tenants, and build a successful rental business from the ground up.

The Pitfalls of Poor Tenant Screening

One of the most critical errors a new landlord can make is rushing the tenant screening process. The desire to fill a vacancy too quickly can lead you to accept the first applicant who shows interest, but this can result in significant problems later. A tenant who pays rent late, damages the property, or causes disturbances can turn your investment into a major headache.

How To Screen Tenants Effectively

A thorough screening process is your first line of defense. Always require a detailed rental application from every prospective tenant. This document should collect essential information, including employment history, income verification, and references from previous landlords. Follow up on these references to ask specific questions about their payment history and how they maintained previous properties. 

Running a comprehensive background check, which includes a credit report and a search for any prior evictions or criminal history, provides a clearer picture of the applicant’s reliability. A consistent and fair screening process for all applicants helps you find responsible tenants and comply with fair housing laws.

The High Cost of Neglecting Maintenance

Failing to stay on top of property maintenance is a mistake that can quickly devalue your investment. Minor issues, like a leaky faucet or a small crack in the wall, can escalate into major, costly repairs if you ignore them. Proactive maintenance preserves your property’s condition and shows your tenants that you care about their living environment. This commitment will lead to longer tenancies and a better reputation as a landlord.

Establishing a Maintenance Routine

Create a schedule for regular inspections of your property. Check for potential problems with plumbing, electrical systems, and the building’s structure. Encourage your tenants to report issues promptly by establishing a clear and simple process for submitting maintenance requests. 

When a problem arises, address it quickly and professionally. Keeping your property in good repair is about preventing problems before they start.

Ignoring Landlord-Tenant Laws

Landlord-tenant laws exist at the federal, state, and local levels to protect you and your tenants. Ignoring these regulations, even unintentionally, can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. 

These laws cover everything from security deposits and eviction procedures to property access and safety standards. Pleading ignorance of the law is not a valid defense in court, so it is your responsibility to understand your legal obligations.

The Dangers of Inadequate Insurance

Many new landlords mistakenly believe that a standard homeowner’s insurance policy is sufficient for a rental property. However, these policies often do not cover the unique risks associated with renting to tenants. Without the proper insurance coverage, you could be financially exposed to liabilities from tenant injuries or significant property damage.

Securing the Right Coverage

Landlord insurance typically covers property damage, liability protection in case of accidents, and even loss of rental income if the property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event. 

Consult with an insurance agent who specializes in rental properties to ensure you have a policy that fits your specific needs. The cost of adequate insurance is a small price to pay for the peace of mind it ultimately provides.

Setting Rent Without Proper Research

Plucking a rental price out of thin air is a common mistake that can hurt your profitability. If you set the rent too high, you risk extended vacancies as potential tenants look for more affordable options. If you set it too low, you leave money on the table and may struggle to cover your expenses, including mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance.

How To Determine the Right Rent

Conduct thorough market research to determine a competitive rental price for your property. Look at comparable rental listings in your area, considering factors like location, size, and amenities. Online rental platforms are valuable resources for this research. Setting a fair market rent helps you attract quality tenants quickly and maximizes your rental income.

Mishandling the Security Deposit

States have very specific rules about how landlords must handle security deposits. These regulations dictate the maximum amount you can collect, where to hold the funds, and the timeline for returning the deposit after a tenant moves out. 

Failing to follow these rules can result in financial penalties, sometimes requiring you to pay the tenant two or three times the deposit amount. Always provide tenants with an itemized list of any deductions you take from their security deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Failing To Create a Proper Budget

Being a landlord means you’re running a business, and every successful business needs a budget. Many new landlords only consider the monthly mortgage payment and forget to account for other significant expenses. You must factor in property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential vacancies when calculating your cash flow. 

It’s also wise to set aside a reserve fund for unexpected major repairs, like a new roof or HVAC system. Proper budgeting can also help you understand concepts like passive losses on a rental property, which have important tax implications.

Improperly Handling the Eviction Process

No landlord wants to evict a tenant, but sometimes it becomes necessary. The eviction process is strictly governed by law, and any misstep can result in your case being thrown out of court, forcing you to start over. 

You cannot simply change the locks or remove a tenant’s belongings. You must provide proper written notice and follow the legal procedures required in your jurisdiction. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s highly advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure you handle the eviction correctly.

Build a Successful Rental Business

Avoiding these common mistakes will set you on the path to becoming a successful landlord. By screening tenants thoroughly, maintaining your property, understanding the law, and managing your finances wisely, you can protect your investment and create a positive experience for your tenants. Being a landlord requires diligence and professionalism, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

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City of Vancouver Safe Stay Community Shelters Receive New Paint

Vancouver, WA —Over the weekend of September 19-20, 2025, volunteers from the Vancouver Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in partnership with Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, the City of Vancouver and Outsiders Inn, prepped and painted modular shelters at Vancouver’s Safe Stay Community located at 415 W 11th St., a few blocks north of Esther Short Park. The shelters, originally colored white, now each have distinct siding and door colors just like any other neighborhood.

The initiative was conceived months ago, with the intent to give the shelters a less industrial look.

Mayor McEnerny-Ogle, who visited the site with dessert she baked herself for volunteers, said, “This project builds a neighborhood where before it felt stark and uninviting.  You know your home by the color of the front door! These colors will help people to feel a calm sense of individuality and belonging.  We are blessed to have the Church’s involvement with this project.”

Work on the painting project started on Friday evening, when about a dozen Church volunteers gathered to hand wash the shelters in preparation for the painting to happen the following day. About 25 volunteers arrived the next morning to paint, using a pre-selected warm color pallet of assorted exterior and door colors. City funds were not required for this project, as the paint and other supplies were donated by Sherwin Williams and Construction Services Group, Inc. Time ran out on Saturday, September 20 before volunteers could finish the entire project, so the group plans to finish the job a week later on September 27.

Residents who were on site during the work party made comments such as, “I like the uniqueness,” “It looks brighter,” “It will make people feel better!” “Colors matter!” “It feels hopeful,”  and “It feels like a home instead of a box.”

Stan Bower, president of the Vancouver Washington Stake shared, “The Vancouver Washington Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has been grateful to partner with Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and the City of Vancouver to paint temporary shelters as part of the Safe Stay program. Participating in this project is one way we are striving to follow Jesus Christ’s invitation to serve others. We hope the residents of this community will feel God’s love through that service as they transition from homelessness to permanent housing.  Thank you to Mayor Anne for the opportunity to participate in this community service project.”

Crystal Drake, program lead for Outsiders Inn, the organization that manages Vancouver’s Safe Stay Communities, shared about the value of surrounding environment for quality of life.

“I think it’s great!” Drake said. “The residents are excited!  A person’s environment has a big impact on their mental health, and going from a white sterile look to a colorful, more individualized look will uplift everyone.”

Learn more about the City of Vancouver’s Safe Stay Communities at https://www.cityofvancouver.us/city-managers-office/homeless/safe-stay-communities/.

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MGP Parental Opt Out Amendment Passes Appropriations Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) proposed an amendment during a House Appropriations Committee markup that would ensure no federal resources can be used to conduct mandatory active shooter drills in schools that do not give parents the choice to opt their students out of participation. The amendment passed through committee on a bipartisan basis. 

“After my three-year-old had to participate in an active shooter drill in daycare he started talking about shooting bad guys for the first time in his life. Another parent I know told me that their fourteen-year-old needed to start taking anxiety medication after being required to participate in one of these exercises. The data backs these stories up. There is no evidence that mandatory student involvement in active shooter drills decreases fatalities, but there is a lot of very clear evidence that these are profoundly psychologically traumatizing exercises,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “I’m heartened that my amendment to ensure that no federal dollars can be spent on active shooter drills by schools that don’t give parents the choice to opt their children out has passed the Appropriations Committee on a bipartisan basis. We must not burden the failure of adult society on the shoulders of children.” 

Currently, the majority of states – including Washington – require all public schools to have an emergency response plan. These plans often include active shooter drills, which are usually conducted without prior notification to students and parents and are associated with a 42% increase in stress among students as well as a 39% increase in depression. Additionally, there is no evidence that mandatory student involvement in active shooter drills decreases fatalities.

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez’s remarks in support of her amendment can be watched here and a full transcript is below. 

“Earlier this year, I met a reality that I believe all first-time parents of school aged children in this country face. I got a notification from my daycare that they had an active school shooter drill for my three-year-old. And after that, my son started talking about shooting bad guys for the first time in his life.

One parent I know, and parents, the group of parents I hang out with and talk with, and I see at the rivers, they’re all talking about this. One parent I know told me that after their fourteen-year-old was required to be involved in a mandatory school shooting drill, they stopped sleeping at night. They went on anti-anxiety medication. And when the parents petitioned the school to be excluded from mandatory school shooter drills, their petition was denied.

The data on this is very clear. There is no evidence that mandatory student involvement in active shooter drills decreases fatalities. There is a lot of very clear evidence that these are profoundly psychologically traumatizing exercises.

The American Association of Pediatricians does not support mandatory student participation in active shooter drills. Everytown for Gun Safety does not support mandatory student participation in active shooter drills. Moms Demand Action do not support mandatory school shooter participation. The NEA, the AFT do not support this exercise in security theater.

The Department of Education came out with support this year. They state that failure to allow parents to opt their children out when they have a documented case of anxiety disorder is likely a violation of the ADA.

Ask yourself which tax bracket of parents is most likely to be able to afford a diagnosis of anxiety disorder?

Why are we funding programs from the 1990s?

Why are we funding programs with no evidence of efficacy?

School shootings are too serious a threat to continue to fund solutions that are not effective. Schools that want to mandate mandatory participation can still do that under this amendment, but not with federal dollars.

If this amendment passes, we can still mandate adult involvement in shooter drills.

And I could have printed out some pretty heinous examples of what goes on in these school shooting drills. Fake blood on theater kids. Gunfire played out over the PA system.

But I wanted to give this body more dignity than our children are afforded.

My amendment would simply prohibit schools from using funding to conduct student involved active shooter drills without first allowing parents the opportunity to exclude their children.

I know that this frame of discussion is a little bit different than how we typically discuss

this issue, in this body, but I guarantee that every group of parents is having this debate.

If you’re skeptical of Everytown or NEA or AFT or the American Association of Pediatricians, that’s fine. But I’m asking you to affirm the rights of parents to decline that their children are used as props in a psychologically traumatizing security theater.

Do not burden the failure of adult society on the shoulders of children.

I humbly ask that this committee support my amendment, and I yield back.”

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Considerations Before Investing in an Electric Family Car

An electric family car might sound like an odd investment when you consider running the kids around, but it might actually be your wisest investment yet.

Electric vehicles are gaining tremendous momentum as families across the country explore cleaner, more efficient transportation options. The appeal extends beyond environmental consciousness to include substantial cost savings, advanced technology features, and surprisingly practical benefits for daily family life. However, transitioning from a traditional gasoline vehicle to an electric family car requires careful consideration of several important factors.

Making this switch represents more than just choosing a different type of engine. Families must evaluate their driving patterns, budget constraints, charging capabilities, and long-term transportation needs. The good news is that electric vehicles have evolved significantly, offering families more choices than ever before while addressing many concerns that previously made people hesitant about electric ownership.

We’re diving into several core considerations to help your family make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle, values, and financial situation. Buckle up and enjoy!

Range and Charging Infrastructure

Electric vehicle range has improved dramatically over recent years, with many family-friendly models now offering 250 to 400 miles per charge. Most families drive less than 50 miles per day, making range anxiety less of a concern than many people initially expect. However, you should honestly assess your typical driving patterns, including weekend trips, vacation travel, and daily commutes.

Charging infrastructure continues to expand rapidly across the US. Major retailers, shopping centers, and highway rest stops increasingly offer fast-charging stations that can add 200+ miles of range in 30 – 45 minutes. Home charging remains the most convenient option for most families, requiring either a standard 120-volt outlet for slow charging or a 240-volt Level 2 charger for faster overnight charging.

Installation costs for home charging equipment typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on your electrical setup and chosen equipment. Many utility companies offer special rates for EV owners, which allows you to charge during off-peak hours at reduced costs. Planning your charging strategy before purchasing ensures you’ll have convenient access to power when you need it most.

Purchase Price and Financial Incentives

Electric vehicles generally carry higher upfront costs than comparable gasoline vehicles, though this gap continues to narrow as technology improves and production scales up. However, federal tax credits up to $7,500 can significantly reduce your initial investment, along with various state and local incentives that vary by location.

Many manufacturers offer competitive lease deals on electric vehicles, making them more accessible to families who prefer lower monthly payments. The total cost of ownership often favors electric vehicles within three to five years due to dramatically lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance expenses.

Electricity costs substantially less than gasoline per mile driven in most areas of the country. The average American family spends about $2,000 annually on gasoline, while the equivalent electric charge typically costs $500-$800 per year. These savings add up quickly, especially as gasoline prices fluctuate and electricity rates remain relatively stable.

Practicality and Space Considerations

Electric vehicles excel in practical family applications, often providing more interior space than traditional vehicles due to the compact nature of electric drivetrains. Many electric SUVs and crossovers offer generous cargo areas, comfortable seating for five to seven passengers, and thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin.

The lower center of gravity created by floor-mounted battery packs improves handling and stability while reducing road noise for a more comfortable family driving experience. Electric motors provide instant torque, which makes highway merging and city driving smooth and responsive.

Families can choose from an expanding variety of electric vehicle body styles, including compact cars, midsize sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and minivans. This diversity ensures that most families can find an electric option that meets their specific space and utility requirements without compromise.

Advanced Safety and Technology Features

Electric vehicles typically come equipped with the latest safety technologies as standard equipment. Features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control can protect your family during daily drives and long-distance travel.

The integration of advanced technology extends beyond safety to include sophisticated infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and over-the-air software updates that continuously improve your vehicle’s abilities. Many families appreciate the quiet operation of electric motors, which reduces fatigue during long trips and creates a more pleasant environment for conversation and entertainment.

Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability

Electric vehicles require significantly less maintenance than gasoline-powered cars because they contain fewer moving parts and don’t need oil changes, spark plug replacements, or transmission servicing. Most electric vehicles only require periodic tire rotations, brake inspections, and cabin air filter changes for the first several years of ownership.

Battery technology has proven remarkably reliable, with most manufacturers offering warranties covering eight years or 100,000 miles on battery packs. Real-world data shows that properly maintained electric vehicle batteries retain 85 to 90 percent of their original capacity after eight years, providing confidence in long-term reliability.

The simplified maintenance schedule saves families time and money while reducing the likelihood of unexpected repair bills. When fixing automotive electrical problems, many electric vehicle systems can diagnose issues remotely and alert owners to potential concerns before they become serious problems.

Environmental Benefits and Future Impact

Choosing an electric family vehicle significantly reduces your household’s carbon footprint, even when accounting for electricity generation from various sources. Electric vehicles produce zero direct emissions, improving air quality in your community and contributing to better health outcomes for your family.

The environmental benefits increase over time as the electrical grid incorporates more renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Many families find satisfaction in reducing their dependence on fossil fuels while supporting the development of cleaner transportation technologies for future generations.

Electric vehicles also operate much more quietly than traditional engines, reducing noise pollution in residential neighborhoods and creating more pleasant driving experiences for everyone on the road.

Make the Right Choice for Your Family

Investing in an electric family car offers numerous advantages, from cost savings and environmental benefits to advanced safety features and reduced maintenance requirements. Success with electric vehicle ownership depends on honestly evaluating your family’s driving needs, charging options, and budget considerations.

Take time to test drive several electric models, research available incentives in your area, and calculate the total cost of ownership over your typical vehicle ownership period. Most families discover that electric vehicles meet their transportation needs and exceed their expectations for comfort, convenience, and overall satisfaction.

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OnPoint Community Credit Union to Match Donations for KGW School Supply Drive

OnPoint celebrates 18th year supporting the KGW School Supply Drive, sends students back to school with the tools they need to learn

PORTLAND, OR — To support local students heading back to school in the fall, OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today that it will be accepting school supply donations during the month of August to help local teachers and students, and distributed with the help of Schoolhouse Supplies. The credit union will also give an additional $5 for every $1 donated to the KGW School Supply Drive at any OnPoint branch between August 4-9, 2025*.

The drive, which runs from August 1-28, 2025, aims to send 15,000 students across Oregon and Southwest Washington back to school with the tools they need to succeed in the classroom. All donations will stay in the community in which they are made.   

“More than half of the students in our community start the school year without necessary supplies, and that affects their confidence,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We know how critical education is to future success, and the School Supply Drive gives our students what they need to keep learning and growing. We’re proud to support the drive again this year and encourage everyone in our community to join us.”

As part of this year’s drive, OnPoint will host a collection event where the community can drop off new school supplies and cash donations at its Clackamas Promenade Branch (8854 SE Sunnyside Rd. Clackamas, OR 97015). To learn more or review other drop-off locations, please visit KGW.com/School.

OnPoint Collection Event:

  • Friday, August 15, 2025
  • 11:00 – 2:00 PM
  • Drop-off location: Clackamas Town Center

Look for the Schoolhouse Supplies/OnPoint table in the parking lot outside the branch.

“Getting ready for a new school year can be stressful enough for families and teachers without also having to worry about kids missing critical supplies. Schoolhouse Supplies works to level the playing field and create education equality by providing supplies to students across Oregon and SW Washington,” said Alice Forbes, executive director, Schoolhouse Supplies. “OnPoint has been a longstanding partner in these efforts, and we are grateful for their commitment to education and supporting the School Supply Drive.”

Learn more about Schoolhouse Supplies and its mission to equip as many local families as possible with the school supplies they need to succeed.

*OnPoint donation not to exceed $20,000.

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47th Annual GRO Parade of Homes Returns to Clark County Sept. 5-21

Six state of the art homes on display at a single site

Vancouver, WA — The Building Industry Association of Clark County presents the 47th annual GRO Parade of Homes, a showcase of the Pacific Northwest’s finest home architecture, design, and construction, September 5-21, 2025 from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm at The Nines at Camas Meadows (4700 NW Camas Meadows Drive) in Camas.

Featuring the latest in high-end home construction from Pacific Lifestyle Homes, Urban NW Homes, NW Fortune Development, and NR Construction Concepts, the GRO Parade of Homes will offer a walk-through experience of six homes. Each home boasts open-air living spaces, and state of the art home technology, appliances, lighting, plumbing, textures, and colors. Trusted builders, designers, and real estate professionals will be on-site to answer questions and offer insights. 

“This year’s GRO Parade of Homes demonstrates that the future of liveability is not relegated to square footage,” says Alexa Lee, president of the Building Industry Association of Clark County. “From condo living to expansive dream homes, we have something in every size for today’s home buyer or renovator.”

Several special events will be a part of this year’s GRO Parade of Homes.

  • VIP Night – Thursday, September 4th, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Celebrate the GRO Parade of Homes opening night with first access to the home tour. Presenting sponsor NW Natural will cater dinner. (21 and over, VIP tickets are available HERE for $80 advance purchase or $125 day of the event). 
  • Hero Day – Sunday, September 14th, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm First responders and teachers with valid ID get $3 off full price admission and active or retired military will receive free admission.
  • Designer Day – Wednesday, September 10th Industry designers will gain complimentary admission by turning in their business card and photo ID  at entrance. A special industry networking happy hour from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm will be held for extra purchase. 
  • Industry Day – Thursday, September 11th, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm A networking event with refreshments will be held from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Admission is free for local builders and realtors with a business card and photo ID at entry. General paid admission for the reception is also available for $45.

Homes are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the event span. Parking will be located across the street from the Nines at Camas Meadows. Tickets can now be purchased for $15 per person at groparadeofhomes.com and on-site during the event. 

About The Building Industry Association
The Building Industry Association of Clark County is the region’s leading building industry and small business advocate. The organization promotes and protects the building industry through a multi-faceted approach to government affairs, public relations and professional development. 

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Gluesenkamp Perez, Rouzer Introduce Bill to Strengthen Forestry Career Pathways

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Reps. David Rouzer (NC-07) introduced the bipartisan Jobs in the Woods Act, which will connect young people with rewarding careers and training in forestry. The bill would create a grant program for nonprofit organizations, state governments, and colleges to utilize for workforce training in forestry-related fields – helping prepare students for jobs in the U.S. Forest Service and in the timber industry.

Inspired by the Forest Youth Success program in Skamania County, the Jobs in the Woods Act will provide workforce training opportunities to inspire the next generation of forestry workers. With most of the forest manufacturing industry located in rural areas, this bill will give individuals the opportunity to learn skills that can serve them and their communities.

The Jobs in the Woods Act would:

  • Create education programs for states, nonprofits, and colleges through grants of $500,000 to $2,000,000
  • Create the programs in rural and low-income areas to spur economic development, bringing thousands of dollars of investments into rural communities
  • Create a pool of talented, trained, and qualified applicants to fill job openings in forestry-related industries
  • Partner with programs that have proven to help students find forestry industry jobs and programs that engage with their local communities

“Our timber communities want to be self-sufficient, and our kids shouldn’t feel like they need to move away from home to do something of value,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez. “Our bipartisan Jobs in the Woods Act will honor Southwest Washington’s timber heritage by setting our next generation up with the skills they need to work in our woods.”

“North Carolina’s forestry industry is a driving force for our rural economy. The Jobs in the Woods Act supports the hardworking men and women who keep our forests healthy and our rural economies strong,” said Rep. Rouzer. “This bill invests in the next generation of skilled workers, revitalizing our communities, and ensuring America’s forestry industry remains competitive for decades to come.”

“The American Forest Resource Council supports the Jobs in the Woods Act as an investment in careers essential to restoring forest health, reducing wildfire risks, and creating family-wage jobs. By establishing regional training hubs and career pathways, this bipartisan bill will expand opportunities in public land management and the timber industry – empowering more young adults to stay and work in the rural communities they call home,” said AFRC President/CEO Travis Joseph. “A skilled workforce in both the woods and mills is critical to meeting the nation’s needs for healthier forests through active forest management and lumber made here in the USA. We urge Congress to pass the Jobs in the Woods Act and help grow the next generation of forestry professionals.”

“We applaud Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, Congressman Thompson, and Congressman Rouzer for introducing the Jobs in the Woods Act. This bipartisan legislation will help address critical workforce shortages by equipping a new generation with the skills needed to manage and sustain our working forests. By supporting training programs for forestry careers, this bill is a direct investment in rural communities, landowners, and the long-term health of our forests,” said Craig Anderson, Vice President of Government Affairs of the Forest Landowners Association. “We thank these Members for championing meaningful solutions for the forestry sector.”

“The forest products industry in North Carolina contributes approximately $40.5 billion to our state’s economy annually. That impact would not be possible without the 5,000 men and women working in our state’s logging sector. Their hard work bridges the gap between standing timber and wood processing facilities that make many of the products our society depends on every day,” said John Hatcher. Executive Director of the North Carolina Forestry Association. “To prepare the next generation of forestry leaders, we must continue to provide resources that foster these career pathways so that we can further strengthen our economy in NC’s forestry sector and beyond”

The forest products industry is one of the U.S. economy’s largest manufacturing sectors, supporting over 930,000 families and contributing $295 billion annually. Consumers rely on loggers, haulers, pulp and paper mills, paper packaging plants, and lumber facilities to manufacture a variety of everyday products.

This year, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez urged the Administration to refrain from cuts to federal workers that could negatively impact timber production, wildfire readiness, and recreation in Southwest Washington. Following the President’s Executive Order to increase domestic lumber production on federal lands, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez expressed support for an approach that prioritizes small, independent logging, trucking, and mill operators.

Earlier this year, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez’s provisions were signed into law to extend eligibility for the Forest Service’s Good Neighbor Authority (GNA) for federal forest restoration and management projects to Tribes and counties to increase opportunities for cross-boundary restoration. In March, she introduced the bipartisan Community Wood Facilities Assistance Act to improve markets for forest products.

Full text of the legislation is available here.

Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez previously introduced the legislation in the 118th Congress.

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CWFD Nationally Recognized for Quality Care for Heart Attacks and Strokes

Camas, WA – The Camas-Washougal Fire Department has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS SilverAchievement award for its commitment to offering rapid and research-based care to people experiencing the most severe form of heart attacks and strokes, ultimately saving lives.

This award recognizes CWFD’s excellent care for STEMI and Stroke patients through seven metrics measured in the 2024 calendar year. The metrics are listed below with the CWFD’s percentage listed in bold.

Mission: Lifeline EMS Award Stats:

  • American Heart Association EMS1: Pre-arrival notification for suspected stroke – 100%
  • American Heart Association EMS2: Documentation of last known well for patients with suspected stroke – 99.25%
  • American Heart Association EMS3: Evaluation of blood glucose for patients with suspected stroke – 90%
  • American Heart Association EMS4: Stroke Screen Performed and Documented – 100%
  • American Heart Association EMS5: 12-lead ECG performed within 10 minutes for suspected heart attack – 77.5%
  • American Heart Association EMS6: Aspirin administration for STEMI-positive ECG – 100%
  • American Heart Association EMS7: Pre-arrival notification ≤ 10 minutes for STEMI positive ECG – 100%

“This recent award is a testament to our team’s commitment to providing the highest level of care to those we serve,” said CWFD EMS Division Chief, Shaun Ford. “I’m thankful for the dedication our First Responders bring every day, and I know the public is too.”

Silver was the highest-level award CWFD could receive this year, as this was their first year submitting the data. If the CWFD can maintain this level of care, next year they will be eligible for a Gold award.

Mission: Lifeline EMS® is the American Heart Association’s national initiative to advance the system of care for patients with high-risk, time-sensitive disease states, such as severe heart attacks and strokes. The program helps reduce barriers to prompt treatment — starting from when 911 is called, to EMS transport and continuing through hospital treatment and discharge. Optimal care for heart attack and stroke patients takes coordination between the individual prehospital providers and healthcare systems.

About Mission: Lifeline

Mission: Lifeline EMS® recognition is the American Heart Association’s program that recognizes prehospital emergency agencies for their quality of care for heart attack and stroke patients. The recognition program focuses on transforming care quality by connecting all heart attack and stroke care components into a seamlessly integrated care system. Key tenets of these systems of care reinforce evidence-based guidelines and measure performance, identify gaps, and engage in quality improvement.

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Annual Camas Days Festival Coming July 25-26

Camas, WA — The 49th Annual Camas Days Festival is coming July 25-26! The C-W Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce some fantastic new additions! Beginning with the Beer and Wine Garden. This year, the Camas Days Beer and Wine Garden will look a little different than previous years. There will be five new musical acts gracing the stage over the weekend. The C-W Chamber is pleased to welcome the opening band, The Sarah Lodge Band, and their headliner, Freight Train Jayne. Both bands will be performing on Friday evening. Saturday, The Beer Garden will open to all ages from 2 pm to 5 pm, with musical guests, The Light Fantastic. After the little ones leave the garden, the opening band, The Andrew Matthews Band and the Headlining band, River Divide will take the stage. 

The C-W Chamber is also excited about their new collaboration with The North Bank Brewers. In addition to the usual offerings provided by C-W Chamber partners at The Odom Corporation, North Bank Brewers will be hosting several local breweries including C-W Chamber of Commerce Members Trap Door Brewing. 

On Friday, the Kid’s Parade will march down 4th Avenue at 12:15 pm. and on Saturday, the Main Parade, “Broadway Comes To Camas, It’s Showtime” will start at 11 am.  There will be bands, dignitaries, drill teams, floats, animals, the beloved toilet paper tossing hosted by Georgia Pacific, and more. This year the parade Grand Marshal is Camas High School Band Director, Richard Mancini, in honor of his decades of service at Camas High School. 

Immediately following the grand parade is the iconic Bathtub Race located between the Camas Library and City Hall. Firefighters are on hand cooling the crowd down with water hoses!  Come watch as Camas Police Chief, Tina Jones Kicks off the races as the Camas Days Flag Woman. Bathtub Race Registration is available here:  www.cwchamber.com. The first 14 teams to sign up will get to participate.

Kids Street is going to be a blast this year. The C-W Chamber of Commerce is collaborating with Mikes Party Rentals. Mikes will be bringing out the largest inflatable obstacle course in Clark County as well as some other bouncy favorites. Shoot 360 will be there hosting some fun basketball contests, Drop the Mic will be hosting Karaoke on Kids Street all day long both Friday and Saturday, come by, sing a song with them and get a free Drop the Mic T-Shirt. Big Als, and Hops N Drops will also be on Kids Street with some fun activities and giveaways. Wrist bands for the inflatables and games are $8 each and they are good for the entire day. 

The Camas Days Festival is a two-day block party of fun, craft vendors, informational vendors, food, drinks, and entertainment for everyone.  More than 115 craft and commercial vendors, 13 food vendors in the food court, and a new section will be available for young entrepreneurs.   

Another new collaboration with C-Tran will make getting to Downtown Camas for the Camas Days Grand Parade just a little easier. This year you can park at Camas High School and take a shuttle provided by C-Tran to Downtown Camas. The Shuttle will run every 15-20 minutes on Saturday July 26th from 9 am to 5 pm.

The Columbian’s Best of Clark County rated Camas Days Hometown Festival the second-best festival in Clark County, second only behind the Clark County Fair. We are honored to receive this recognition!  

Camas Days
Camas Days
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FISH Vancouver Receives Over 30,000 Pounds of Food From LDS Church

Vancouver, WA  — FISH Vancouver received over 30,000 pounds of food and household supplies Thursday from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The donation comes at a time of high need for many individuals and families due to school letting out for the summer. For more than 50 years, FISH Vancouver has provided food to the Clark County community, growing from operating in a garage, then later to a rented church space and now to their own large warehouse in Downtown Vancouver. The organization serves thousands of individuals every year.

“We are grateful to be able to make this donation to FISH, as they do so much to help individuals and families in the Clark County community,” said Ryan LeBaron, Vancouver West Stake President for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “As followers of our Savior Jesus Christ, we are pleased to join FISH in striving to live the Second Great Commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves. We are thankful for generous donations from members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who made this particular donation possible, and for other friends and neighbors who also give of themselves to lift up those in need. We hope and pray that the food and items in this donation will sustain those who need it most.”

What: Over 30,000 pounds of food were delivered to FISH Vancouverfrom The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City, Utah, to benefit families in need. The food donation includes mixed canned goods, dry pasta, flour and other necessary household staples such as liquid dish soap and automatic dishwasher detergent.

Where: Food was delivered to FISH at 906 Harney St., Vancouver, WA 98660

When: Thursday, June 12, 2025

Fish
Photo credit: Karl Stum.
Fish
Photo credit: Karl Stum.
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