Tag Archive for: Camas

When Matthew Perry, the beloved star of Friends, passed away last year, the world mourned the loss of a comedic icon. However, as details of his estate began to emerge, a curious puzzle presented itself: despite his reported net worth of $120 million, his bank account held (only) $1.5 million. Admittedly, this seems like a whopping sum to most of us, but this amount appears off for a man who earned millions of dollars for just one episode of the show. Shouldn’t he have had much more money than that? The answer lies in the details of estate planning and using trusts as part of your plan.

In this article, we’ll look at Perry’s estate plan and pull out some valuable lessons. These lessons pertain to all of us, not just the rich and famous. To find out how trusts can benefit you, read on.

What is a Trust?

A trust is simply a legal arrangement where a person (sometimes called a “settlor”) transfers assets to someone ( a “trustee”) who manages those assets for the benefit of someone else (the “beneficiaries”). Many types of trusts can be used for various purposes, including estate planning, asset protection, and providing for loved ones.

The trustees appointed to manage a trust play a crucial role in fulfilling the settlor’s wishes. Choosing the right trustees is essential for the effective management of a trust. Trustees should be trustworthy, financially responsible, and knowledgeable about estate planning. They should also be willing to devote the time and effort required to manage the trust’s assets.

In Perry’s case, it appears he established a trust during his lifetime. This trust, which seems to be named the Alvy Singer Living Trust—Woody Allen’s character in Annie Hall—presumably holds a significant portion of his wealth. In Perry’s case, the trustees were likely responsible for managing his investments, paying bills, and distributing money to the beneficiaries.

Why would Perry have chosen to establish a trust? There are many benefits, which I’ll break down in greater detail now.

The Power and Benefits of Trusts

There are many advantages to using a trust for estate planning. Here are some of the most common.

Protection from creditors and lawsuits. If a beneficiary faced financial difficulties, their creditors would generally not have access to assets held in a trust.

Ongoing support during life, incapacity, and after death. Trusts can provide for loved ones more flexibly than a will. A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death. However, a trust can be structured to provide support during your life and for your beneficiaries over time, ensuring their needs are met. If you have a will, your assets will usually be transferred to your beneficiaries – even if they are young or financially irresponsible.

Minimization of estate taxes. Depending on the size of an estate, there may be significant federal and state estate taxes. A trust can reduce or eliminate these taxes.

Court avoidance. A court process called probate takes place after someone dies, and it can be expensive, lengthy, and conflict-laden. If you have a will or no estate plan, court is mandatory. However, the court process may be avoided if you have a trust. This results in less expense, less time, and a decreased probability of conflict. It’s also a public proceeding, and court filings contain personal and financial information you may not want others to see.

Conflict avoidance. The court process is set up to give all heirs and creditors a claim to your assets. They are invited to file a claim and get to see information about your assets.

Greater control over what happens to your assets and your family. When you have to go to court, someone other than you – a judge who’s a stranger to you and your family – will make all final decisions about your money, property, and family. But with a trust, you can make those decisions and exercise control over the outcomes.

Preserving assets when there’s a substance abuse issue. It’s no secret that Perry struggled with substance abuse for much of his life, and it’s possible that because of that, he was advised to create a trust to hold his assets. This was a wise decision. Substance abuse can have a significant impact on financial stability, and it is possible that Perry sought to protect his assets from loss, either by his actions or potential creditors and legal issues related to his addiction. You can do the same for a friend or relative if you want to support them and know they struggle to manage their finances responsibly.

These advantages apply to you, too! You do not need to be wealthy to want a trust. You do not have to be charitable or famous to take advantage of the benefits.

The Appeal of Privacy

Remember when I mentioned above that the court process is public? I also noted that a trust can help you and your family avoid court and its very public nature. If you were wondering, “If it’s true Matthew Perry had a trust, then how come it’s public knowledge that he had $1.5 million in his bank account?” Then kudos! You caught on to something important.

Matthew Perry also had a will, and wills go through probate. Any assets not placed into a trust must be dealt with via your will and, thus, are subject to the court process. Remember when I mentioned that court filings must contain your personal and financial information? That’s how we know about Matthew Perry’s bank account. The funds in his bank account were ostensibly not placed into his trust and are subject to the public probate process. You can look up the court records and read his will – or any will – for yourself.

His will mentioned that he had trust, which is also common. It doesn’t mention the terms of the trust, who the beneficiaries are, what his other assets are, and who gets what. Our public knowledge is limited to what’s in his will. And if his bank account had been placed into his trust, it would have been kept private, too.

In short, assets placed into a trust are kept private, as is your personal and financial information. Assets left out of a trust are public knowledge. So, when you create a trust, you mustn’t just draft and sign the document and call it a day. You must take the next step and correctly place your assets into the trust. If you don’t do that, you lose all the benefits the trust offers.

How We Help You Protect What Matters Most

As more details about Perry’s estate emerge (and sadly, his death), we may better understand his intentions and the legacy he will leave behind. While his untimely passing is a tragic loss, his estate planning offers a fascinating look at the advantages of trusts and how you can also take advantage of them.

We help you create a comprehensive Life & Legacy Plan that may include tools like trusts to protect your assets, maintain your privacy, and ensure your loved ones are cared for—without the headaches of court or the increased chances of conflict. By planning today, you can have peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored, your family’s future will be safeguarded, and your legacy will be kept private.

Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation 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.

Camas, WA – City of Camas officials are encouraging residents to join their friends and neighbors for the Our Camas 2045 Community Summit #2.

The Summit will take place Oct. 22, from 4:30-6:30 pm, at the Camas-Washougal Fire Department Station 42 (4321 NW Parker Street).

This is a key opportunity to participate in Camas’ city-wide engagement processes, Our Camas 2045 and Our Downtown Camas 2045, as we update the Comprehensive Plan and develop a Downtown Subarea Plan.

At this summit, participants will help:

  • Review and comment on the draft land use alternatives for our city.
  • Provide input on the scale of development.
  • Review and refine concepts for downtown Camas.
  • Share information about the City’s climate planning efforts and recent greenhouse gas emissions inventory.

These activities build on the community visioning process and are essential in shaping a land use alternative that aligns with Camas’s unique needs. The goal is to create a plan that balances housing, parks, open spaces, transportation, infrastructure and equitable outcomes for all.

Please join Camas city officials for a fun and informative evening to discuss the future of Camas! For more information, visit Engagecamas.com or contact Alan Peters, Community Development Director at 360-817-7254 or email [email protected]

Washougal Studio Artists proudly presents their 4th Annual Holiday Art Market Tour, Saturday and Sunday, November 16th and 17th, 10 am-4 pm.

This is your opportunity to visit 13 artists’ studios and enjoy the work of 25 talented local artists. Come learn what inspires the artists and learn how they have developed their processes. Ask questions and experience the creative studio environment where art is being made. The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a biannual event that draws visitors from all over the region, and we are excited to share it with you. Explore an amazing array of works in fused glass, textiles, bronze sculpture, painting, jewelry, mixed media, collage, ceramics and photography.

Participating artists include the following:

  • Studio #1: Trish Johnson (studio owner), watercolors; Keith Russell, painting and drawing.
  • Studio #2: Sandy Moore (studio owner), mixed media fabric collage and home decor; Sharon Buckmaster, mixed media wearable art; Jeanine Clark, painting, drawing, wearables.
  • Studio #3: Tamara Dinius (studio owner), mixed media; Phyllis Carter, fused glass; Toni McCarthy, beaded and metal jewelry.
  • Studio #4: Liz Nye, mixed media, photography, textiles.
  • Studio #5: Regina Westmoreland, mixed media.
  • Studio #6: Debbie Nagano, mixed media.
  • Studio #7: Judi Clark, painting, drawing.
  • Studio #8: Ellen Nordgren, mixed media.
  • Studio #9: Shirley Bishop (studio owner), fused glass & home décor; Kathy Marty; hand-woven rugs and home décor; Marina Pearson, acrylic painting and drawing; John Relyea, woodworking.
  • Studio #10: /Susan Fronckowiak (studio owner), painting, photography; Anna Norris, painting, ceramics; Blythe Ayne, photography.
  • Studio#11: LesleyAnne Ezelle (studio owner), ceramics and alpaca fiber;
  • Studio #12: David Van Zandt (studio owner) bronze sculpture & acrylic painting; Charlene Hale, glass.
  • Studio #13: Mica Wilson (studio owner), painting, drawing; Elaine Lim, painting, drawing.
  • The Washougal Studio Artists Tour is a wonderful way to spend the day. There is a great joy in experiencing art firsthand, buying local and giving your special friends and loved ones original pieces of art. Here is your chance to meet the makers, to

learn about their processes, and to find truly special holiday or birthday gifts. Or maybe you’ll be inspired to sign up for a class. 

Many of these artists also offer classes from their studios. For further information: Shirley Bishop 360-991-3081 —

https://www.washougalstudioartists.org/

Camas, WA — The day after Camas’ famous Boo Bash, downtown Camas merchants are inviting the public to enjoy Witch’s Night Out – an enchanted evening of thrills, deals and chills. All the bewitching fun happens on Thursday, October 24th from 4-8 pm. Dress up in your favorite witch attire and compete for prizes in a costume contest inside Gallery 408 at 6 pm. Shop for spooky deals and specials at each location and enjoy complimentary treats in the historic district of downtown Camas.

Witch’s Night Out is sponsored by Gallery 408 and RedDoor Gallery. In addition to both art galleries, participating merchants include Allure Boutique, Arktana, Autumn Leaf Books, Camas Antiques, Camas Cheese Co., Camas Cellars, Lily, Lane Cellars and Sweet Intentions Gift Boutique. Vampire Unicorns is also doing a pop up sale at Lily.

“Who doesn’t love dressing up as a witch,” said Joanne Cavallaro, one of the sponsors from Gallery 408. “On October 24th, downtown Camas will be taken over by witches and their ghoul friends as they stop into local retailers, eateries and drinkeries to have a night on the town.”

For more information, call Joanne Cavallaro at 512-659-2351 or Liz Pike at RedDoor Gallery at 360-281-8720.

Diana Sue Rennie was born on April 4, 1950 in Seattle, Washington and left us too soon on July 22, 2024. As a young girl growing up in Seattle she and her siblings enjoyed skiing at Sahalee, camping trips to Alta Lake, and time on the water at Priest Lake and Lake Washington. One of her favorite memories to share were the train trips she and her sister, Marilyn would take to see her grandparents down in Astoria, Oregon. 

Diana and her family moved to Yakima, Washington when she was young. She graduated from Eisenhower High School in 1968. She then attended Central Washington University graduating with a degree in Elementary Education. Shortly after graduating she received her first teaching job at Helen Baller Elementary in Camas, Washington in 1973. She taught 2nd grade for eleven years before moving over to Lacamas Heights. Diana taught there for thirty years before retiring in 2014. She deeply loved the children and families of the town of Camas. She served her community well beyond the classroom in various arenas including serving on Camas City Council, an active soroptimist member, and president of the Camas Education Association for years. After retiring she dedicated much of her time to the local backpack Food Program at the Treasure House and Family Resource Center, and most recently was a regular volunteer and math tutor, supporting teachers and students at Prune Hill Elementary as well as her niece’s school in Selah, Washington.  

Diana is preceded in death by her sister, Marilyn (Rennie) Bainter, and both of her parents; John Russell Rennie and Genevieve (Harmon) Rennie all of Yakima. Diana leaves behind her brother, John Rennie (Angela Rennie) and sons Averell and Nick Rennie of Yakima, as well as her niece Kate (Bainter) Mercer, husband John Mercer, and great nephews and niece; Jax, Maddox, and Madilyn Mercer all of Yakima, as well. 

What Diana loved most in her life was her family, her two cats, many friends, and all of the students she had in her impressive 41 years of teaching elementary school. Around her home you will find many old photos, cards, letters, and graduation announcements from past students, some of whom she was still in contact with. She was a truly gifted educator and left behind a wonderful legacy of kindness, patience, love, and generosity to her family, friends, and the community of Camas. After retirement, her true joy came from her bi-weekly visits to her niece Kate’s to spend time with her great niece and nephews. She could watch them for hours with sheer amusement and the smile that they brought to her face was priceless. 

We were all so fortunate to have her in our lives and she will be truly missed in our hearts. Please join us in a celebration of life for Diana Rennie on October 19, 2024 from 1-3 pm at the Joyce Garver Theater 1500 NE Garfield St, Camas. 

Rennie

Being a business owner can be incredibly rewarding. It feels great to see an idea become a reality, increase your revenue, and create a job for someone who needs one. But, as all business owners know, with reward comes risk. There’s not much you can do to eliminate risk from your business, but you can get pretty close with the right systems.

A complete insurance system is one of the most essential systems your business can have. With the right policies and guidance, you can safeguard your personal and business assets against unexpected threats like lawsuits, property damage, and employee injuries, providing you with a sense of security and peace of mind.

In this article, we’ll look at the different types of business insurance, what’s legally required, and how to choose the best coverage for your needs. Read to the end, and I’ll show you how to get the proper support to protect your business.

Understanding Your Legal Obligations

Before you start exploring the different types of business insurance, understanding what’s required by law can provide a sense of relief. Depending on where you live and the nature of your business, you may be legally obligated to carry certain types of insurance. 

Federal law mandates that employers carry workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, and disability insurance. These coverages are essential in protecting your employees and ensuring they receive the necessary support if they’re injured or unable to work due to a job-related issue.

Workers’ Compensation. This insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages for employees who get injured or sick due to their work. It’s a must-have if you employ three or more workers, whether they’re full-time or part-time.

Unemployment Insurance. This coverage provides financial support to employees who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. It helps them bridge the gap while they search for new employment.

Disability Insurance. Disability insurance protects employees who can’t work due to a non-work-related injury or illness. It’s another layer of protection that’s crucial for both you and your employees.

Beyond federal requirements, each state has its own rules regarding business insurance. For example, if you use vehicles for business purposes, you may be required to carry commercial auto insurance. This is only one example; state laws can vary widely and be complicated. So, working with a lawyer is essential to ensure you comply with the law. As your Business Advisor, I can help. Keep reading, and I’ll show you how to book a call with me to learn more.

Exploring Common Types of Business Insurance

Once you’ve covered the basics of what’s required by law, it’s time to think about additional insurance that can help protect your business from unexpected risks. As a general rule, you should consider insuring against risks that you wouldn’t be able to cover out of pocket. Here are some of the most common types of business insurance:

General Liability Insurance. General liability insurance is a must for any business. It covers many potential risks, including bodily injury, property damage, medical expenses, and legal costs if someone sues your business. For example, if a customer slips and falls in your store, general liability insurance can help cover their medical bills and legal fees if they sue.

This insurance also covers claims of libel, slander, and other personal injuries that might arise from your business operations. General liability insurance acts as a safety net, protecting you from financial loss due to unforeseen accidents and legal challenges.

Product Liability Insurance. You’ll want to consider product liability insurance if your business involves manufacturing, wholesaling, distributing, or selling products. This coverage protects you from financial loss if a product you sell causes injury or harm. For example, if you sell a toy that ends up being a choking hazard, product liability insurance can cover the costs of a lawsuit or any settlements that arise.

Even with the best quality control, defects can happen. Product liability insurance ensures that one mistake doesn’t financially ruin your business.

Professional Liability Insurance. Professional liability insurance is vital for businesses that provide services rather than products. Also known as errors and omissions insurance, this coverage protects you from financial loss due to malpractice, errors, or negligence in your services.

For instance, if you’re an accountant and make a mistake on a client’s tax return, leading to penalties from the IRS, professional liability insurance can help cover the cost of any legal action or settlements. This insurance is essential for service-based businesses where even a tiny error can have significant financial consequences.

Choosing the Right Insurance

Now that you know about the different types of business insurance, how do you choose the right one for your business? Here are four steps you can take:

Step 1: Assess Your Risks

The first step in choosing the right insurance is assessing your business’s risks. Consider the accidents, natural disasters, or lawsuits that could impact your business. For example, if your business is in an area prone to flooding, you’ll want to consider commercial property insurance covering flood damage.

Step 2: Find a Reputable Licensed Agent

Once you’ve assessed your risks, it’s time to find a reputable commercial insurance agent. A good agent will take the time to understand your business and recommend coverage that fits your needs. They will guide you through the complex world of insurance, ensuring you make informed decisions.

Step 3: Understand the Policy Terms

Insurance policies can contain complicated language, but understanding the terms can empower you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take the time to understand the terms of each policy, so you’re clear on how coverage works in different scenarios. 

Step 4: Reassess Your Coverage Every Year. As your business evolves, so do your risks. It’s important to review your insurance coverage annually to ensure it still adequately protects your business.

As your business grows and evolves, so will your insurance needs. Each year, review your coverage to ensure it will work when you need it to. For instance, if you’ve purchased new equipment, expanded your operations, or hired more employees, it’s time to update your insurance. Regularly reassessing your coverage with a trusted advisor ensures that you’re always protected, no matter how your business changes. And as your Business Advisor, I’m here to help. 

Business insurance is an investment in the future of your company. By understanding your legal obligations, exploring the various types of insurance available, and following the steps to choose the right coverage, you can protect your business from unexpected risks. Whether it’s a slip-and-fall accident, a product defect, or a professional error, the right insurance policy can be the difference between weathering a storm and facing financial disaster.

Secure Your Business’s Future with the Right Guidance

As your Business Advisor, I know how crucial it is to shield your business from these unexpected risks. That’s why I offer a comprehensive Business Breakthrough Session, where we’ll evaluate your current coverage, identify gaps, and create a strategy to ensure your business is fully protected. Together, we’ll build a safety net that allows you to grow your business confidently, knowing you’re well-equipped to handle anything that comes your way.

Book a call to get started and secure the future of your business. 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.

Planning a big trip is exciting. If you’re considering overseas travel to a destination wedding or to a cruise port, you and your luggage will go through a variety of steps. If your luggage ends up chasing you on a long tour, you’re going to need replacement clothing and toiletries.

What Travel Insurance Is and What it Normally covers

Travel insurance is a great investment if you’re planning to travel outside the country. Your health insurance may not cover all costs of an accident or illness overseas, but travel insurance can. If you’re injured before a trip, such as a cruise, you can get a full refund even if the cruise line or airline company doesn’t allow it.

If you get to your destination but your luggage doesn’t, you can get that loss covered while you’re out without waiting for the 21 day loss period. If you need to replace more than basic vacation wear and toiletries, extra coverage is a great idea.

Benefits of Having Travel Insurance

If you’re planning a big trip after retirement, travel insurance can actually protect your budget before and after your trip. Should you start the trip with no troubles and find that an emergency back home requires you to cut your trip short, travel insurance may allow you to gain a partial reimbursement.

Your ultimate destination may have a weather event that causes travel delays. If you need an extra night of hotel coverage or a bit more room in your budget for restaurant meals, your travel insurance can cover it.

Use All the Travel Insurance Services

Travel insurance policies often come with perks that your regular insurance company would never need to offer. Review your policy to see if there’s a concierge contact number. Your travel insurance may offer an app that includes support specific to being away from home.

Those planning to travel overseas may also be worried about a language barrier. There are many travel insurance plans that offer multilingual support. Those planning the trip of a lifetime may be ready to commit to a travel insurance that will cost 10% of their total travel costs. If language is a big concern for you, take the time to check out travel insurance providers online and over the phone. In the event of an injury or illness, you want to be confident that you can easily communicate your needs.

Cases Where Travel Insurance May Not Be Necessary

If your auto insurance offers coverage for your rental car, you may not need to use the secondary coverage provided by your travel insurance. Similarly, if your medical insurance will completely cover the cost of an accident or illness away from home, you won’t benefit from making a claim against your travel insurance.

For those planning a long road trip, travel insurance may not be necessary. If you’re doing the driving and using your own car, you may want to purchase a different form of insurance, such as a thorough car check-up or new tires. However, if you’re planning a road trip that includes booking multiple hotel rooms and putting down deposits, trip insurance may be a worthwhile investment.

Your trip is worth protecting with travel insurance. As a general rule, travel insurance is worth the money if you’re putting down a deposit on your travels. If you have any health concerns that can impact your travels, buy the insurance. If you’re traveling during a season of weather uncertainty or to a region with questionable weather events, travel insurance is a good investment.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Generali Travel Insurance

By Res Nova Law Firm

As a business owner, networking may be a necessary evil. You have to get your name out there by meeting other people, but does it have to be so uncomfortable? Making small talk and figuring out how to promote yourself and your business without sounding cringy is challenging for most of us. 

If you’ve felt this way before, you’re not alone. A recent Forbes article discusses the discomfort in the American networking style and contrasts the American way with how Italians network. The American approach to networking often seems forced and self-serving. However, the Italians network in a way that allows business connections to form naturally, based on genuine relationships and a desire to help others, which is easier and more satisfying. So, let’s explore how you can promote your business by networking more effectively with a few strategies from our friends across the Atlantic. 

The Problem with American-Style Networking

You’ve probably been there. You walk into a crowded room, name tag slapped on your chest, and immediately feel the pressure to “work the room.” Everyone around you is on a mission to collect as many business cards as possible, and it feels superficial or like a waste of time.

But here’s the thing: this approach rarely leads to meaningful connections. You might walk away with a stack of cards, but how many people will you remember? And more importantly, how many of them will remember you?

The American style of networking often focuses on quantity over quality. You’re taught to elevator pitch through conversations, always looking for what others can do for you. It’s exhausting, and frankly, it doesn’t work as well as you might hope. 

The Italian Approach: Building Relationships, Not Contact Lists

Now, picture this: You’re at a small café in Italy. You strike up a conversation with the owner about the local olive harvest. Before you know it, he’s introducing you to his cousin, who runs an import-export business. You’re not trying to network – just having a pleasant conversation. Yet somehow, you’ve made a valuable business connection.

This is the essence of Italian-style networking. It’s not about collecting contacts; it’s about building relationships. Italians don’t see networking as a separate business activity. Instead, it’s woven into the fabric of daily life. They help others because it’s the right thing to do, not because they expect something in return.

The phrase “I’ve got a guy” is common in Italy. Need a plumber? Your neighbor has one. Looking for the best local wine? The shopkeeper has one. This network of personal recommendations is built on trust and genuine connections. And guess what? It’s incredibly effective for business, too.

How to Network Effectively 

How can you bring this Italian flair to your networking efforts? Here are some key strategies to keep in mind:

Focus on Giving, Not Getting. The next time you’re in a networking situation, flip the script. Instead of thinking about what others can do for you, ask yourself how you can help them. You may know someone who’d be perfect for their project, or you have experience that could solve a problem they’re facing.

Offer Something of Value, Deliver it, Then Follow Up. In the same vein, offer something of value to someone else. Then, deliver the thing of value immediately and follow up after. The value should be related to your business or your services and could be a free book, report, or service. Then, once you’ve delivered the valuable offer, continue to add value until they are ready to take the following steps. One example may be including them on your house list and sending a weekly email newsletter. But make sure your newsletter is chock-full of exciting and valuable content people want to read!

By focusing on giving value first, you create a positive impression. People remember those who helped them and are likely to return the favor. Plus, it just feels good to help others!

Take Your Time and Build Genuine Connections. In the Italian approach, relationships aren’t built in a single conversation. Take the time to get to know people beyond their job titles. Ask about their interests, their families, and their dreams. Share your own stories and experiences.

This doesn’t mean you must become best friends with everyone you meet. But by showing genuine interest in others as people, not just potential business contacts, you create more profound, meaningful connections. These are the relationships that lead to long-term business opportunities and partnerships.

Expand Your Network Organically. Instead of limiting your networking to formal business events, look for opportunities to connect with people in everyday situations. Join a local sports league, volunteer for a community project, or become a regular at your neighborhood café.

As you build relationships in these settings, you’ll naturally expand your network. And because these connections are based on shared interests or experiences, they’re often more substantial and genuine than those formed at traditional networking events.

The Long-Term Benefits of Effective Networking

Adopting this approach might feel slow at first. You won’t walk away from every interaction with a new client or business deal. But over time, you’ll build a network of people who know, like, and trust you. And that’s incredibly valuable in business.

Think about it: when you need a service or product, who will you choose? A company you found through a Google search or one recommended by a friend you trust? Effective networking puts you in the position to be that trusted recommendation.

Moreover, this style of networking is more sustainable and enjoyable. You’re not constantly “on,” trying to sell yourself. Instead, you’re building authentic relationships and helping others. It’s a more natural and less stressful way to grow your business connections.

So, it’s time to ditch the aggressive, self-serving approach to networking. Instead, take a page from the Italian playbook. Focus on building genuine relationships, helping others without expecting immediate return, and letting your network grow organically. You might collect fewer business cards, but you’ll create something far more valuable: a network of people who want to see you succeed.

The Advisor You Need When You’re Ready to Build Your Business

As your Business Advisor, I know your marketing and networking strategies are crucial to your business success. I also understand that when you’re trying to build a business, you may be so busy networking that you neglect the other important parts of your business, like your essential legal, insurance, financial, and tax systems. But without these systems, your business can suffer, making your networking efforts fruitless.

That’s why I offer a comprehensive Business Breakthrough session. In this Session, we’ll analyze your current business foundations and develop a plan to address gaps. Together, we’ll ensure that your business is built on a solid foundation so you’re free to do what you do best—focus on growing your business.

Contact us today!

Res Nova Law

Camas, WA — The Camas Public Library is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated annual Saturday Spooktacular, October 19 from 6 pm to 8 pm.

All ages are invited to participate in this free two-hour event. Activities include crafts, Boo Bingo, scary stories, and a Haunted Library. Little ghouls and goblins can hunt for a limited-edition Reading Dragon card, visit the preschool Pumpkin Playground, or stop by the puppet show.

“The community is in for a treat with an array of activities designed for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a classic scare in the Haunted Library or for festive crafts, this year’s celebration is set to be a fantastic blend of spooky and fun.” said Connie Urquhart, Library Director.

The Library will close at 5 p.m., in preparation for the event. The Haunted Library is recommended for older school-aged children and teens. Costumes and flashlights are encouraged for all ages.

Camas Public Library’s Saturday Spooktacular is funded by the Friends & Foundation of the Camas Library. No registration is required to attend.

Camas, WA — With the goal of raising $126,000 for their 2025 grants, the Camas-Washougal Community Chest has begun their annual fundraising drive. The non-profit group is continuing their partnership with the Camas–Washougal Rotary Foundation and the Camas Lions Foundation to provide additional grant funds. The combined monies are to fund grants to local non-profit organizations that serve Camas and Washougal residents in need; at-risk youth programs, address natural resource conservation, foster education, and enhance diversity, equity and inclusivity.

The Camas-Washougal Community Chest 2024 Grant Highlights:

CWCC, CWRF and CLC joint 2024 campaign raised $134,000 and distributed 34 grants including:

  • Inter-Faith Treasure House, a local food bank
  • AKIN (formerly Children’s Home Society of WA), family support programs
  • Family Promise, help needy families keep their home or find a new one
  • Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership, habitat improvements
  • IMPACT, funding grocery gift cards for distribution to low-income families
  • Washougal’s Songcraft Festival, provide funding to participating artists
  • Watershed Alliance of SW WA, three Cottonwood beach cleanups funded

2024 FUNDRAISING MAJOR DONORS:

  • Georgia Pacific employees
  • Georgia Pacific Foundation
  • HP employees
  • HP Corporation
  • Camas & Washougal School District employees
  • City of Camas & Washougal employees
  • Port of Camas-Washougal employees
  • Watercare Industrial Services
  • Columbia Rock Products (Sauer Holdings LLC)
  • Windermere Foundation,
  • Tidland Christian Development Fund
  • Hinds Charitable Fund
  • Many other individuals and businesses

For more details, visit: camaswashougalcommunitychest.org

APPLICATIONS FOR GRANT FUNDING:

  • Must be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
  • Must provide services in Camas and/or Washougal
  • Provide service in one or more of the following areas:
    • education, youth activities
    • aid to people with special needs
    • natural resource conservation
    • health and welfare programs
    • crisis and emergency services
    • diversity, equity and inclusivity
  • Fill out the 2025 application form on CWCC’s website after October 15, 2024
  • 2025 grant applications due December 15, 2024
  • Applicants notified in March 2025 regarding level of grant funding, if any
  • Quarterly Grant payments begin in March 2025

Mailing Address

PO Box 960, Camas, WA 98607

[email protected]

CamasWashougalCommunityChest.org

facebook.com/camaswashougalcommunitychest/

Community Chest