Many older adults, along with people of all ages, were not prepared for the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. There have been many complexities to navigate, from figuring out how to get groceries and wearing masks to quarantining or becoming ill. During many emergencies, the Fire Department is the first on the scene to address immediate problems and the Red Cross comes next to help with early needs like food, shelter and emotional support.

Clark County Green Business’ free virtual workshop series continues this month with an event focused on waste prevention. The series began in late February and will conclude with an event in May.

Remaining workshops include:

Clark County Council Chair Eileen Quiring O’Brien last night presented the State of the County 2021 address in a pre-recorded video. The presentation premiered on CVTV.

The address now is available for viewing on CVTV.org and channel 23/323. See CVTV.org for air times. The video also can be viewed on the county’s YouTube channel and its Facebook page.

Clark County’s Master Composter Recycler program is offering a series of free composting webinars this spring.

The four composting webinars will teach people how to keep food scraps out of the landfill by using their curbside composting cart or setting up successful composting systems at home. Three different home composting methods are highlighted.

Public health officials in Clark and Cowlitz counties are urging people to stay close to home this spring break and take precautions if gathering with others.

COVID-19 case numbers had plateaued in Clark and Cowlitz counties, but over the last few weeks have begun to increase. Additionally, multiple COVID-19 virus variants have been identified in Clark and Cowlitz counties, including variants known to spread more easily.

The Clark County Council is seeking applicants for two volunteer positions on the Solid Waste Advisory Commission. One position represents north Clark County, and the other represents the county at-large.

The three-year terms begin in April. Meetings are held quarterly at 6 pm on the first Thursday of the months of February, May, August and November. Meetings are currently held virtually.

Up to 12 months of rent and electric utility assistance for low-income persons in Clark County who have been negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic will be available starting Tuesday, March 30, 2021. The 12 months can include owed rent or electric utility arrears, and a maximum of up to three months of future rent.

The Clark County Charter Review Commission is seeking applicants to fill an open position on the commission. The seat is in councilor district 4, position number 3. Applicants must be registered voters currently residing in council district 4.

For the next three weeks, the COVID-19 vaccination site at Tower Mall will prioritize giving second doses to people who received their first dose at the site. A limited number of first-dose appointments will be available each week as well.

The Clark County Arts Commission announced this week it has selected Armin Tolentino as Clark County Poet Laureate. Tolentino will serve 2021-2023 promoting the art of poetry and literature throughout Clark County. His term begins April 1, 2021.