The latest news stories and stories of interest in the Willamette Valley from the digital home of Southern Oregon, from Wynne Broadcasting’s WillametteValleyMagazine.com
Monday, March 11, 2024
Willamette Valley Weather
Corvallis Police Investigating Fatal Shooting
On Saturday March 9th at approximately 7:20pm the Corvallis Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at a residence in the 1900 block of NW Highland Dr. Officers arrived on scene and found one woman deceased and a second woman with serious injuries from an apparent gunshot wound. The injured woman was transported by the Corvallis Fire Department to Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center and is currently in stable condition.
Responding officers immediately verified the suspect had fled the area in a vehicle, and investigators were able to identify him as 53-year-old Jerry Bruce Mitchell Sr. Utilizing a variety of resources, investigators were quickly able to track Mitchell’s location; Mitchell was taken into custody in northern California shortly after midnight. Through continual assessment, investigators found no direct threat to the community during the initial response.
The circumstances surrounding this event are still being actively investigated by the Corvallis Police Department in collaboration with several other law enforcement agencies. We will continue to release additional information as the investigation unfolds.
Eugene Springfield Fire and Other Agencies Respond to Landslide in SW Eugene
The three homes that were the most impacted were evacuated. Another five to eight residences were given voluntary evacuation information. The Red Cross is in the loop to provide accommodations if needed. There have been questions about whether the rains could have been a factor in the hillside conditions. The rains did play a role, as the ground has been saturated.
At this point it is believed any movement at the site should be slow, if it moves any. Tomorrow, a geology engineer will be out to provide better intel for long term solutions/risk. Many of our hillsides can be a risk as wet as the winter has been. That risk is low, but planning and development maintains maps of the area that indicate which soil types exist in certain areas that may be at higher risk.
Previous information: At 9:52 a.m. on March 10, callers reported a high retaining wall in the 3300 block of Videra Drive was tipping and pushing against the side of a home. Callers also reported a landslide with broken water lines and a possibly broken gas line. Eugene Springfield Fire, along with City of Eugene Public Works, NW Natural, and Eugene Water and Electric Board, have responded to the area.
The utilities are working on the water and gas lines and Public Works is evaluating the landslide and surrounding areas. Approximately eight residences have been evacuated due to the potential hazard. Eugene Police is providing traffic control in the area and helping notify nearby residents of the risk and voluntary evacuation. 24-03100026
Fire Crews Respond To Early Morning House Fire
Eugene Springfield Fire crews were on scene of a house fire at 1010 Monroe St near downtown Eugene early Sunday morning.
Firefighters were alerted at 5:00 AM and arrived to find heavy fire near a carport which had extended to the roof and interior of the home. All occupants were out of the home on arrival and confirmed after a search. The fire required extensive overhaul and the the need for an additional crew and the support unit. There were no injuries and the cause is under investigation.
Firefighters Respond To Small Brush Fire
Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a small brushfire near 3417 Timberline Dr in SW Eugene at 2PM Friday afternoon.
Arriving firefighters found a row of arborvitae on fire. Crews were extinguished the fire before it damaged a nearby home. The cause is under investigation. Arborvitae are a common landscape shub in our area and often used as a living privacy fence and planted close to homes. These shrubs have a tremendous amount of stored energy and burn like Christmas trees. Spring is the right time to ensure your home is wildfire safe for the upcoming fire season even if you live in a city. Check out this link for more information and a defensible space checklist. https://www.oregon.gov/osfm/Documents/Defensible%20Space%20Checklist.pdf
Salem Police promotes veteran officer to deputy chief post
Salem, Ore. — Today, Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack presided over a special ceremony to promote Lieutenant Debra Aguilar to the rank of deputy chief.
Aguilar started with the agency in December 2000 and has served in various assignments since then. While in the Field Operations Division, she worked as a school resource officer at West Salem High School. In 2011, she promoted to the rank of sergeant. Just two years later in 2013, she was again promoted, receiving the rank of lieutenant. In the decade-plus that followed, Aguilar was assigned to several specialty disciplines, such as threat assessment, crisis negotiations, and defensive tactics. She also assisted in several key roles for the department, acting as liaison to the Human Rights Commission and the local non-profit Salem for Refugees.
The new deputy chief is a graduate of Western Oregon University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish. In 2017, Aguilar also attended the prestigious FBI National Academy, a ten-week program that brings together elite law enforcement officers for focused training in a variety of disciplines. Aguilar is also second-generation law enforcement. She followed the career path of her father, a now-retired sergeant with Oregon State Police.
Aguilar is also the second woman in department history to hold the rank of deputy chief. During the ceremony Chief Womack underscored his trust and confidence in her, and also observed Aguilar “earned her new rank, having served our community for 24 years and passed a rigorous, competitive deputy chief testing process to get here today. And she happens to be a woman in a profession still dominated by men. That is worth noting since coincidentally, she is being promoted in March which is National Women’s History Month.”
In her assignment as a new division commander, Aguilar will lead the Investigations Division.
Marketing Class Partners with Cottage Grove Humane Society
EUGENE, Ore. – As part of its dedication to promoting social good, Bushnell University’s Marketing 432 class has strategically partnered with the Cottage Grove Humane Society to bring real-world experience to the students and support a local nonprofit organization.
The collaboration was initiated when the Humane Society, inspired by a news story on KEZI about Bushnell’s new Digital Marketing and Digital Media & Graphic Design programs, reached out to assistant professor Christy Silverthorne, M.A., the lead for the programs. Intrigued by the prospect of working with marketing students, they proposed a partnership that would see the students creating branding services, advertising, and promotional pieces for the organization.
Silverthorne expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This is such a great opportunity for the students to get some real-world experience creating the marketing campaign for such a worthy cause. It really is a win-win. It’s good for the students and a way to bless the community.”
Marketing 432 focuses on branding, advertising, and promotion, and aims to provide students with hands-on experience in understanding how to successfully brand an organization. The collaboration with the Humane Society offers students the opportunity to dive into creating effective promotional strategies tailored to meet the specific objectives of a client.
Recognizing the evolving landscape of online communication and social media, the class plans to explore new digital channels for the Humane Society. Despite the organization’s relative newness to digital marketing, students will be tasked with finding feasible solutions and ensuring recommendations align with the client’s capabilities.
The success of the branding and advertising campaign will be determined during Bushnell’s Spring Ace Day on May 1, when student teams will pitch their campaigns to the Humane Society. The winning campaign will be adopted for the organization’s future marketing endeavors. While the class won’t actively monitor the campaign post-semester, they aim to equip the Humane Society with tools for effective self-monitoring.
To foster creativity and innovation within budget constraints, students are challenged to create compelling stories that stand out in a crowded market. Jessica Woods, a student involved in the project, captures the essence of this collaborative project: “Being able to help a place like Cottage Grove Humane Society emphasizes the service aspect of Bushnell’s 3 main pillars [of Wisdom, Faith, and Service]. Learning not just about our degree, but also what we can do with it in the real world is a priceless experience.”
As the semester unfolds, the collaboration promises not only to enhance the students’ understanding of branding and advertising, but also to make a meaningful impact on the Cottage Grove Humane Society’s outreach efforts.
To learn more about the Cottage Grove Human Society visit their website at www.humanesocietycottagegrove.org.
To learn more about Bushnell Universities new marketing programs, see here:
B.S. Digital Marketing – Bushnell University
B.S. Digital Media and Graphic Design – Bushnell University
Become a temporary election worker and help democracy thrive
The Lane County Elections Office is hiring temporary election workers to assist with the May 21, 2024 Primary Election.
“Temporary election workers are critical to the success of elections,” said County Clerk Dena Dawson. “We want to build a more diverse pool of people that is representative of our community. Retirees are always welcome, but so are students, stay-at-home parents, gig workers, and anyone who just wants to learn more about elections or earn a few bucks.”
Available positions include customer service, data entry, ballot processing, and ballot collection. Some positions require a few weeks of availability and others only require a few days, or even just one night. Lane County does not use volunteers to conduct elections; all temporary election worker positions are paid.
Temporary election workers are hired before each election cycle. Another round of hiring will begin in August for the November 5 Presidential Election.
Detailed job descriptions, instructions, and more details for applying can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections under the “Election Temporary Jobs” section.
Lane County Elections holding student contest to create “I Voted” coloring page
Local students, kindergarten through college, are invited to create an “I Voted” coloring page for the Lane County Elections Office.
Four winning entries will be used to create a coloring page that will accompany ballots for the November 5, 2024 Presidential Election.
“I’m excited about this creative way for Lane County voters to celebrate voting,” said Lane County Clerk Dena Dawson. “I can’t wait to see what students come up with and I hope we blow up social media in November with the colorful versions voters create.”
There are four categories for student submissions:
- Category 1: Kindergarten–5th Grade
- Category 2: 6th Grade–8th Grade
- Category 3: 9th Grade–12th Grade
- Category 4: College or vocational school students
Submissions are due by April 1, 2024 and may be provided by email, mail or in-person. All entries must be submitted on the official entry form and must be signed by a parent or guardian if the entrant is under 18 years old.
Submissions must be original artwork and on a plain white background with black outlines so voters can color the artwork in November and share on social media using #LaneCountyVotes.
The entry form and more detail about how to submit artwork can be found at www.LaneCountyOR.gov/elections under the “I Voted Coloring Contest” section.
Legislative Session 2024: Governor Kotek Issues Statement on Housing and Homelessness, Education, Campaign Finance Reform, and House Bill 4002
Last Thursday, after Oregon lawmakers concluded the 2024 legislative session, marking continued progress on critical issues facing Oregonians, including housing and homelessness, education, and more, Governor Tina Kotek issued the following statement:
“I commend lawmakers for a productive session with bipartisan successes and a strong focus on the top issues facing Oregonians.
“Oregon will now have more tools to meet the urgent demand for all types of housing, in all parts of the state. Senate Bill 1537 will help stabilize housing costs by increasing housing production through cutting red tape in permitting processes, establishing some of the strongest affordability standards for new construction in the country, and other critical reforms. Combined with investments in Senate Bill 1530, I look forward to ensuring that every dollar advances housing production.
“Our students will have more educational supports this summer to offset the learning loss between school years, and we are on track to make budget information that the State already collects from school districts more accessible and easier to understand.
“This session also marks the historical passage of campaign finance reform with strong bipartisan support. I applaud all those who came to the table to find compromise and deliver a policy that will strengthen transparency and confidence in Oregon’s elections. I want to thank legislative leadership for their commitment and urgency in getting it done this session.
“Finally, reforms to Measure 110 will start to take shape, as I intend to sign House Bill 4002 and the related prevention and treatment investments within the next 30 days. As Governor, my focus is on implementation. My office will work closely with each implementing authority to set expectations, specifically in response to the Criminal Justice Center’s Racial Equity Impact Statement, which projected disproportionate impacts to communities of color and the accompanying concerns raised by advocates. House Bill 4002 will require persistent action and commitment from state and local government to uphold the intent that the legislature put forward: to balance treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and accountability.”
Oregon selected by Doris Duke Foundation for grant funding work to improve safety outcomes for children
When: Monday, March 11 at 1 p.m. PST
What: Media availability and press event for Doris Duke Foundation ODHS grant announcement
Who: Fariborz Pakseresht, Oregon Department of Human Services Director; JooYeun Chang, Doris Duke Foundation Program Director for Child Well-being; and Trisha Ettestad, Parent Mentor, Morrison Child and Family Services, Oregon
Why: Opt-in for Families, a three-year, $30 million initiative, aims to change how child welfare agencies engage with families. In addition to Oregon, Opt-in for Families will pilot in Kentucky, South Carolina, and Washington, D.C. Opt-in for Families seeks to demonstrate that connecting families contacted by the child welfare system to direct support for basic needs and coordinated support services is a cost-effective, scalable way to prevent abuse and neglect and keep families together. The initiative is specifically focused on reaching families who currently fall between the cracks, such as those who get referred to Child Protective Services but did not warrant further investigation of neglect or abuse.
Register here: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_iMNwuvMKRqq6BPSrPY12Lw
For interviews and video footage on ODHS programs related to the grant please contact: Lindsay Magnuson, lindsay.magnuson@odhs.oregon.gov
### About the Doris Duke Foundation — The mission of the Doris Duke Foundation (DDF) is to build a more creative, equitable and sustainable future by investing in artists and the performing arts, environmental conservation, medical research, child well-being and greater mutual understanding among diverse communities. To learn more, visit www.dorisduke.org.
About the Oregon Department of Human Services — The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve well-being and independence through op
Katie Lineburg from St. Stephen’s Academy named Oregon’s 2024 Poetry Out Loud champion; Brooklyn Carr Heuer of West Linn High School named runner up
Salem, Oregon –Katie Lineburg, a senior from Hillsboro who attends St. Stephen’s Academy, is Oregon’s 2024 Poetry Out Loud champion. Lineburg received the top score at Saturday’s Poetry Out Loud State Contest, held at Salem Public Library. She will now represent Oregon at the national Poetry Out Loud competition, to be held April 30 through May 2 in Washington D.C.
Brooklyn Carr Heuer, a sophomore at West Linn High School, was named runner up. She would be invited to represent Oregon in the national competition should Lineburg be unable to attend.
Lineburg performed “The Pulley” by George Herbert and “Beginning” by James Wright. She is the oldest of five siblings who loves music and spending time with friends and family. She is a member of the St. Stephen’s Academy Festival Choir and loves poetry because “it allows her to connect with people and express emotions in a deeper way.” She has also loved public speaking since a very young age.
“I am so thankful to my teachers, family and friends for supporting me along the way and I can’t wait to share more goodness, truth and beauty with the world,” said Lineburg.
Carr Heuer enjoys being involved in speech and debate/mock trial. When she is not in school or doing extracurricular activities, she loves reading and being outside.
“This contest gives young people in our state an opportunity to experience how the words of poets can help transform how they interpret the world, unleash their imaginations and hopefully inspire them to one day write their own poems,” said Dr. S. Renee Mitchell, who served as one of the State Contest judges. “When I was their age, I was intensely shy, and I didn’t have the confidence to do what they did today. So in my mind the bravery, confidence and talent of every one of these young performers are to be celebrated and they should be encouraged to continue their journeys.
“The winner, Katie, exuded a confidence beyond her years,” added Mitchell. “As soon as she stepped on stage, her presence was magnetic. She had just the right mix of interpretation and emotional expression that made you want to lean in and pay attention. She didn’t just interpret the poets’ words; she embodied them with a skill beyond her years of creative expression.”
The other 10 students who competed Saturday, after winning their school competitions and advancing from regionals, are: Cara Chen, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego); Maria Daniels, St. Stephen’s Academy (Beaverton); Tali Greenfield, Lakeridge High School (Lake Oswego); Traiton Kramer, Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem); Arianna Morris, Redmond High School; Brayden Olsen, Oregon School for the Deaf (Salem); Kaydence Pope, South Medford High School; Misha Rana, West Linn High School; Mariah Reynolds, Redmond High School; and Bena Rodecap, Grant High School (Portland).
Poetry Out Loud is a national recitation contest for high school students, organized in Oregon by the Oregon Arts Commission in collaboration with the NEA and the Poetry Foundation. Participants memorize and present poems, practicing public speaking skills while exploring the complexity of poetry.
Editor’s note: Video to be available on request after 8 p.m.
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the Governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development.
The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: www.oregonartscommission.org.
Final piece of $376 million Oregon housing package clears Legislature
A bill that would help small cities build at least 585 homes is headed to Gov. Tina Kotek.
House Bill 4134, spearheaded by Rep. Lucetta Elmer, R-McMinnville, is the final component of a $376 million housing package the Legislature approved this year. It provides $7 million in grants to Burns, McMinnville, Amity and Toledo for infrastructure projects to help the small cities add homes. The bill passed the House on a 54-2 vote earlier this week and passed the Senate on a 28-0 vote on Thursday.
Elmer told the Capital Chronicle the proposal began with conversations with city officials in McMinnville last spring. McMinnville approved a subdivision with 290 lots in 2007, but the land has sat vacant for years because the homes can’t be built without water infrastructure that will cost an estimated $2 million.
“I’m fiscally conservative when it comes to our tax dollars, but I like the idea of taking one-time taxpayer money for infrastructure, but then tying it to private money,” Elmer said.
In McMinnville, a developer was ready to start building homes as soon as the infrastructure was in place. Elmer didn’t want to limit her request to just McMinnville, so she looked for other cities with a population of 50,000 or less that had housing projects that could move forward quickly with infrastructure investments.
She started with 11 cities, but the list was narrowed to four as the bill moved through the Legislature. Elmer said she plans to introduce a similar bill next year to help more cities. The proposal would require developers to commit to ensuring that at least 30% of homes are affordable to people making 130% or less of the area median income.
McMinnville would receive $2 million for water pipes and pumps through the proposal. Burns would get $3 million for water, sewer and stormwater site improvements for the planned 161-home Miller Springs subdivision. Amity would get $1.5 million for stormwater infrastructure and road improvements to allow for construction of 35 new affordable homes. And $640,000 for water, sewer, infrastructure and road improvements in Toledo would support a new apartment complex.
The overall housing package includes Senate Bill 1530 and Senate Bill 1537 and includes $376 million for infrastructure funding, homebuilding, homeless shelters and rent assistance, along with changes to state land use laws to make it easier for cities to build homes. (SOURCE)
Oregon Launches New Online System for
Unemployment Insurance Benefits
Frances Online will provide better online customer service for people filing
unemployment insurance claims
MARCH 6, 2024 (SALEM, ORE.) – The Oregon Employment Department (OED) launched a brand new, easy-to-use online system for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits this week. UI benefits went live through Frances Online on Mon., March 4.
“Frances Online is modernizing customer service for Oregonians filing for Unemployment Insurance benefits,” Governor Kotek said. “This is a step in the right direction for the State of Oregon. While there may be bumps in the road as we adjust to the new system, the Employment Department is ready to respond to issues quickly and make necessary adjustments.”
Preliminary data for Monday and Tuesday shows that:
- More than 23,000 weekly claims have been received from existing customers
- More than $8.1 million dollars in claims have been paid through Frances Online
- The average time for customers filing weekly claims was just under 11 minutes on desktop computers and under 9 minutes on mobile devices.
“The new system is mobile-friendly and will help streamline our work on UI claims so customers can get their benefits paid more efficiently,” said David Gerstenfeld, director of OED. “We are proud to be delivering on our promise to modernize our technology systems. We believe it will address a lot of the pain points customers and OED employees have previously experienced.”
What Current Claimants Need to Know
Current claimants need to take two important actions to use the new system:
- Create a Frances Online account at frances.oregon.gov. If they have an active claim or applied for benefits in our old legacy systems but their claim is still being reviewed, information about their claim will appear in their new Frances Online account. If they have an account in Frances Online because they claimed benefits from Paid Leave Oregon, they do not need to set up a new account.
- File their weekly claim at frances.oregon.gov/claimant. Claimants can now file for the week of February 25-March 2. If they did not file a weekly claim for the week of February 18-24 and they are seeking benefits for that week, they can still claim that week using Frances Online. They will be able to file all future weekly claims using Frances Online going forward.
Customer Service Tips
The agency anticipates high call volumes at the UI Contact Center. Current claimants are encouraged to use self-serve features available through Frances Online. Other tips:
- Check U.S. mail and email daily and respond quickly to requests for information. Also check email spam filters. Some information will still have to come by U.S. mail, even if claimants select to get email alerts. Letters and emails may have due dates for responding. If claimants miss due dates, their benefits could be delayed or denied. Uploading documents is easier in the new system.
- Check online before calling the UI Contact Center. Many questions can now be resolved quickly through the new self-serve features in Frances Online.
- Review and continue to follow UI eligibility rules. This will help avoid a disruption in receiving benefits.
- Check out tutorials and how-to guides on navigating Frances Online at unemployment.oregon.gov/frances.
- Know where you can get help. Customer service is available at Frances Online () via secure messaging, live chat, chatbot and the Contact Us form.
The agency says there will be a learning curve for employees and claimants for the next few months. OED has hired 40 additional staff with one-time funding to support the transition.
“Frances Online is more agile and efficient,” said Lindsi Leahy, director of the UI Division at OED. “We expect that the system will work well for most and that a small number of claimants will experience issues. We will continue providing a more staff-intensive level of customer service for those who need it.”
Like other states that have launched new UI systems, the state may see an uptick in fraudulent claims. Leahy stressed that the new system is more resilient and has enhanced fraud protection features that will better protect UI benefits. Leahy also reminded consumers that Frances Online is free to use, and OED will never call a customer to ask for customers to pay to use any of OED’s services. If customers get a suspicious piece of mail, call or text, or see a questionable website or link, they should visit OED’s webpage on fraud for more information and a link to reporting fraud.
The addition of UI benefits to Frances Online is the final stage of the state’s approximately $106 million effort to modernize its online customer service systems. Paid Leave Oregon launched in Frances Online in 2023 and employer contributions for UI and Paid Leave launched in 2022.
The name Frances was chosen in honor of Frances Perkins, who was born in 1880 and was a lifetime advocate for working Americans. She was the first female presidential Cabinet member and the longest-serving Secretary of Labor in U.S. history. Perkins was instrumental in forming the Social Security Act and the Unemployment Insurance program.
Go to unemployment.oregon.gov/frances for more information and resources about Frances Online for UI benefits
Which of Oregon’s free tax filing options fits you best?
Salem, OR—Filing electronically is the fastest way for taxpayers to get their refund. On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund two weeks sooner than those who file paper returns and request paper refund checks.
With Oregon returning a $5.61 billion kicker to taxpayers in 2024 everyone wants to get their refund as soon as they can this year, but not everyone can afford commercially available software. Fortunately, all Oregon resident taxpayers preparing their own returns in 2024 can file electronically at no cost using one of the free file options that can be found on the Department of Revenue website.
A variety of choices are available, and taxpayers can use the information below to help them pick the one that best fits their needs.
Free electronic filing options
Free guided tax preparation is available from four companies that participate in the Free File Alliance for taxpayers that meet income requirements. Using links from the department’s Get free help filing your taxes page ensures that both taxpayers’ federal and state return will be filed for free.
These free services work much like the popular pay to file programs.
This option is best for taxpayers that have income less than $79,000 and need to file both their federal and Oregon returns. Each company has different requirements for who qualifies for free filing and offers must be accessed from the department’s Get free help filing your taxes page.
Direct File Oregon
New this year, the department is also offering Direct File Oregon, which allows taxpayers to file their Form OR-40 through Revenue Online. Direct File Oregon is not currently linked with the IRS Direct File. Taxpayers will need to file a separate federal return with the IRS before filing an Oregon return with Direct File Oregon through Revenue Online.
Direct File Oregon is suited for taxpayers who don’t meet the income requirements of other free file options and want a more guided experience for filing their Oregon tax return electronically. Creating a Revenue Online account and logging in to file provides the best experience.
A how to use Direct File Oregon video is available to help taxpayers understand the process.
Free fillable forms
Oregon Free Fillable Forms performs basic calculations and is ideal for taxpayers who don’t need help preparing their returns and want the convenience of filing electronically. The IRS offers a similar option for filing federal taxes electronically.
Free Fillable forms is suited for taxpayers who don’t meet the income requirements of other free options, already have their forms filled out, are sure of their calculations, and just want to e-file for free!
The department offers special computer kiosks in three of its regional offices where taxpayers who don’t have access to computers can file their return using the free fillable forms and Direct File Oregon e-file options. The kiosks are available in the DOR regional offices in:
• Bend, 951 SW Simpson Ave, Suite 100.
• Eugene, 1600 Valley River Drive, Suite 310.
• Medford, 3613 Aviation Way, Suite 102.
Free help filing Oregon tax returns
Taxpayers that don’t have a computer or need one-on-one help also have options for electronic filing. AARP Tax-Aide, the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs, MFS-CASH Oregon, and the United Way’s MyFreeTaxes offer in person and drop off services for tax preparation by trained volunteers.
Many of these programs require an appointment and slots fill up quickly. Information about these services and an interactive map to find a location near you are available on the agency’s website.
In 2024 Oregon is returning $5.61 billion in surplus revenue to taxpayers in the form of a “kicker” tax credit. Taxpayers will receive their kicker as part of their refund, or the kicker can reduce the tax they owe. Each taxpayer’s kicker credit is based on their tax liability for the 2022 tax year. To determine the amount of their kicker, taxpayers are encouraged to use the What’s my kicker? calculator on Revenue Online.
Most refunds are issued within two weeks, but returns that need more review may take up to 16 weeks before a refund is issued. Taxpayers can check the status of their refund by using the department’s Where’s My Refund? tool on Revenue Online. A video outlining the refund process and timelines is also available to help taxpayers understand the process.
You can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), we accept all relay calls.
Police still searching for three youth who escaped MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility
WOODBURN, Ore. — Law enforcement are still searching for three youth escaped from MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in Woodburn at about 9:12 p.m. on Feb. 18. Warrants have been issued for their arrest, and law enforcement are actively searching for the youth.
The youth are:
- Angel Diaz-Barrera, age 19, adjudicated for robbery 1 and carry/use of a dangerous weapon in Marion County. Height 5’5”. Weight 142 pounds. Angel has black hair, brown eyes, and small tattoos on his left hand and under his left and right eyes.
- Julian Diaz-Navarro, age 19, adjudicated for attempted assault 1, carry/use dangerous weapon in Marion County. Height 5’6”. Weight 140 pounds. Julian has black hair, brown eyes, and small tattoos under his left eye, above his left brow, on his left hand, and on his right middle finger.
- Xavier Swimm, age 21, adjudicated for attempted assault 2, aggravated harassment in Multnomah County. Height 5’8”. Weight 115 pounds. Xavier has brown hair, blue eyes, and multiple tattoos on his hands and chest.
Diaz-Barrera and Diaz-Navarro are from Salem; Swimm is from Portland. If anyone sees these youth, please call 911. If someone has information about the youths’ whereabouts, they should call Oregon State Police at 503-375-3555 (reference case # SP 24-054230).
Governor Kotek to Sign Bill Criminalizing Possession Of Small Amounts Of Illicit Drugs
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek will sign a bill that will make it a crime to be caught with small amounts of illicit drugs again, according to a statement released by the governor’s office Thursday. House Bill 4002 will reverse Measure 110 , which has received mixed feedback since it was approved by voters in 2020.
In a statement, Kotek gave a round-up of all the bills she would be signing as the legislative session closes, including on measures focused on housing and homelessness, education, campaign finance reform and HB 4002. She said she intends to ensure “reforms to Measure 110 will start to take shape” by signing the bill.
“I intend to sign House Bill 4002 and the related prevention and treatment investments within the next 30 days. As Governor, my focus is on implementation. My office will work closely with each implementing authority to set expectations, specifically in response to the Criminal Justice Center’s Racial Equity Impact Statement, which projected disproportionate impacts to communities of color and the accompanying concerns raised by advocates. House Bill 4002 will require persistent action and commitment from state and local government to uphold the intent that the legislature put forward: to balance treatment for individuals struggling with addiction and accountability.” (SOURCE)
State Funding of $2.5 million+ is a “Big Win” for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
ASHLAND, Ore. — “This is a big win for us” is how the delighted interim executive director, Tyler Hokama, described the $2.5 million+ funding for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) approved by the State Legislature last Thursday. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek must now approve the $2,555,175 funding.
The large financial contribution was approved by the state after Hokama and other OSF supporters testified in a House Committee hearing. They pointed out reasons why financial assistance was so important to the cultural organization. Hokama’s appeal was supported at the hearing by Ashland Mayor Tonya Graham and a representative from the Southern Oregon University. The House Committee heard about the significant role played by the OSF in the economy of Southern Oregon.
The OSF Starts its 2024 Season on a High Note
The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, recognized as a non-profit world-class theater, can now begin the 2024 season on a high note after its appeal for funding was granted by the State Legislature.
Tyler Hokama says apart from the current season, the funding will be used to plan for the OSF’s 90th anniversary that it will celebrate in 2025.
The funding is the largest awarded by the state. The OSF was one of seven main venues seeking financial assistance. The second largest award of $949,375 was to the Oregon Symphony.
On Monday, 19 March, the OSF will preview plays to be staged during the 2024 season that will open on 29 March.
Hokama says the OSF’s funding appeal was supported by community organizations such as the Ashland Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development Inc. Hokama conceded that while the OSF is about art and enriching the lives of Oregonians, it plays an important role in the local economy.
Hokama states that the OSF was “in a crisis” when he came out of retirement to take control as the interim executive director.
Former executive director David Schmitz, together with a number of other staff members, left in January 2023 when the OSF found itself in a financial crisis.
Hokama says with the new funding, the OSF can look ahead to its future with optimism and fill vacant positions such as a permanent executive director.
Hokama has confirmed that he will continue in his leadership role until such time as a successor is found. Hokama says he will make himself available to his successor to ensure the takeover transition period runs smoothly. The OSF is now in a sound financial position and Hokama plans to help his successor keep the organization on a healthy footing.
The interim executive director says no deadline has been set to appoint a successor because “it is less about a timeline and more about the right person.” Hokama says the search committee and the board are focusing attention on finding and appointing the right person for the job. The OSF would rather wait a while longer than making a rushed decision. (SOURCE)
Brookings City Manager Accused Of Stealing From Fred Meyer Loses Her Job And Faces Censure
A group representing city and county managers in Oregon announced Monday that it had censured and expelled Janell Howard after determining her “egregious” conduct while the city manager of Brookings had violated the organization’s code of ethics.
The move was the latest blow for Howard, who was cited in 2022 for third-degree theft after security cameras at the Fred Meyer next to city hall captured Howard, who earned $151,320 a year, stealing two items: toilet paper and a veggie tray, together worth $15.98.
The move from the Oregon City/County Managers Association also came after months of political turmoil in tiny Brookings, the southern coast city of 6,800 with a $63 million annual budget.
Brookings’ elected leaders put Howard, 53, on paid leave from her job following the July 4, 2022 accusation of theft and the revelation that Fred Meyer alleged she had shoplifted at the store 15 other times. But they reinstated her in January 2023 after she pleaded no contest to the single charge.
The ensuing backlash prompted successful recalls in last November’s special election of the mayor and two former city councilors, who had all voted in favor of reinstating Howard. The newly constituted city council voted Jan. 16 to fire Howard.
Among Howard’s most vocal critics was former Brookings police officer Bryan Holmes, who resigned from the city’s police force in February 2022 to protest her reinstatement.
The city council’s decision to fire Howard came as a long-anticipated relief, he said.
“It took a year and a half to finally get the result that was necessary and I think that the city’s actually going to start heading in a better direction,” said Holmes, 36, who now works at a gym he co-owns with his brother and father in Brookings. “If everyone would have just stayed quiet, it wouldn’t have gotten brought to light and nothing would have ever been done about it, and that sort of behavior would have still been tolerated and continued for a long time.”
During its Jan. 16 session, the city council appointed Police Chief Kelby McCrae as acting city manager.
Howard and representatives for the Oregon City/County Managers Association did not immediately respond to inquiries Tuesday from The Oregonian/OregonLive. (SOURCE)
Triple your impact: Pacific Power will match your contribution to Oregon Energy Fund 2-for-1
PORTLAND, Ore. (Mar 7, 2024) — Helping your neighbors and their families stay warm just got easier. Pacific Power will match every dollar you donate to the Oregon Energy Fund with $2 more.
Pacific Power customers who receive their bills by mail will find they include an Oregon Energy Fund contribution envelope in March. Customers who pay their bills electronically can send a check or enroll in the fixed donation program. To enroll in the fixed donation program, customers can call Pacific Power toll-free at 1-888-221-7070 or Donate to Energy Assistance (pacificpower.net).
This program allows customers to donate any dollar amount, starting at $1 per month, which is then incorporated into their monthly bill. Fixed donations will also be matched 2-for-1 by Pacific Power.
Donations may be tax-deductible and are forwarded directly to the Oregon Energy Fund, which verifies eligibility and allocates funds to those in need. All funds donated are used to assist families in need within the same county in which the donor resides.
“Pacific Power’s commitment to supporting household stability is bolstered by compassion, collaboration and innovation,” said Brian Allbritton, executive director of the Oregon Energy Fund.
“Studies have shown that more than a quarter of Oregonians struggle to pay their bills each year,” said Albritton. “From Oregon Energy Fund’s start in 1989, Pacific Power has been an important partner in bringing emergency bill payment assistance to thousands of vulnerable Oregonians, helping them keep healthy and safe and keeping their lights on.”
Last year, donations from Pacific Power’s customers, employees and the company helped 1,591 individuals in need throughout Oregon, including 793 adults, 196 seniors, 174 people with disabilities and 602 children. This year, Pacific Power will match up to $144,000 in donations.
Customers who need bill assistance themselves can speak with Pacific Power representatives at 1-888-221-7070 who can help with payment plans that work for their individual needs, while directing them to agencies that may be able to help. —
About Oregon Energy Fund – Oregon Energy Fund is Oregon’s leading energy assistance nonprofit. Since 1989, OEF has helped more than 300,000 people pay their monthly energy bills in times of financial crisis. By connecting those in need with energy assistance services, OEF’s programs provide a basic need that helps prevent hunger, debt, illness and homelessness, and gives our neighbors the support they need to lead healthy and productive lives.
About Pacific Power – Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with 2 million customers in six western states. For more information, visit www.pacificpower.net.
Oregon State Parks recruiting about 250 seasonal park rangers and assistants for 2024
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks is not just a beautiful place to visit – it’s also a spectacular place to work.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is recruiting 250 seasonal park rangers and assistants for positions across the state that range anywhere from four to nine months. The peak season is from April to September, but some of the positions start as early as March and run as late as December.
Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.
Salaries start at $17.34 per hour for seasonal assistants and $20.06 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, start at $17.32 or more per hour depending on experience (no benefits).
OPRD promotes from within and several of our top leaders started as seasonal employees.
“We love what we do at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department,” said Director Lisa Sumption. “We get to preserve and share some of Oregon’s most treasured landscapes and resources. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you’re part of that OPRD family.”
For more information about current openings, visit stateparks.oregon.gov. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.
Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest Underway
The front cover of the 2023-2024 Oregon Blue Book showcases a hillside covered in beautiful balsam root and lupine flowers at Rowena Crest, captured by Oregon photographer Micah Lundsted of Eugene. The book’s back cover shows an image of three rockfish made at the Oregon Coast Aquarium by Dale George of Grants Pass.
Which images will cover the 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book? The Oregon Blue Book cover photo contest kicks off today, giving amateur photographers the chance to submit their photos to answer that question. Photo contest winners will be selected in October 2024 by Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade.
“Choosing the cover photos for the Oregon Blue Book is an honor,” said Secretary Griffin-Valade. “The images are a chance to see our beautiful state through the lens of the many talented amateur photographers who live in Oregon.”
The contest is open to Oregon residents of any age who earn less than half their income from photography. Images must be Oregon related and should be submitted in the portrait, rather than landscape, orientation. Two images will be selected for the cover: one for the front and one for the back. Visit the Oregon Blue Book Photo Contest guidelines for more information: https://sos.oregon.gov/blue-book/Pages/about-conte…
Images can be submitted through the Oregon Blue Book website portal or via U.S. mail. The deadline to submit photos for consideration is October 27, 2024. Contact the Oregon Blue Book Managing Editor at Oregon.Bluebook@sos.oregon.gov with questions or for additional information.
DETAILS
What: 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest
Who: Amateur photographers who live in Oregon
When: February 7, 2024-October 27, 2024
Where: Submit online or through U.S. Mail
Why: Photo on the cover of the 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book
ODFW Announces Stamp Art Competitions
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is making a call to area artists to compete in one, or all three, of ODFW’s 2025 stamp art competitions.
The winning artist in each contest receives a $2,000 award and their winning artwork is used to produce collector’s stamps and other promotional items, sales of which benefit Oregon’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats.
For more information on contest rules and to order stamps and art prints, visit: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/stamp_contest/index.asp.
Entries will be accepted beginning Aug. 30 through Sept. 27 by 5 p.m., at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife headquarters, 4034 Fairview Industrial Dr., SE, Salem, OR 97302.
Entries can be mailed or hand delivered. If you hand-deliver your entry, call ahead to make arrangements at 503-947-6314.
Here’s a look at the three categories:
Habitat Conservation Stamp
Art entries must feature a “Strategy Species” identified in the Oregon Conservation Strategy in its appropriate habitat. Not all species in the strategy are eligible, so use the qualifying list of species.
See contest rules and entry form for more information and a list of eligible species at
https://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/habitat_conservation_stamp.asp.
Waterfowl Stamp Contest
Art entries must feature one of the following species in its natural habitat setting: Ring-necked Duck, White-winged Scoter, or Barrow’s Goldeneye.
See contest rules and entry form for more information at
https://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/waterfowl/contest/index.asp.
Upland Game Bird Stamp Contest
Art entries must feature California Quail in its natural habitat setting.
See contest rules and entry form for more information at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/upland_bird/contest/index.asp
Artists should not the highlighted new for 2025 information in the contest rules and the final page for packaging tips.
A panel will judge artwork based on artistic composition, anatomical accuracy of the species and general appeal.
Collector’s stamps, art prints and other promotional materials are produced from first-place artwork. Proceeds from product sales are used for habitat improvement, research surveys and conservation projects.
Interested artists are encouraged to visit ODFW’s stamp art competition website for more information on the contests and to view entries from previous years. https://www.dfw.state.or.us/stamp_contest/index.asp
Missing child alert — Jerrica Landin is still missing and is believed to be in danger
The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Jerrica Landin, age 17, a child in foster care who went missing from Portland, Oregon on Aug. 21. She is believed to be in danger.
ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Jerrica and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.
Jerrica may be in Portland or Eugene in Oregon. She may also be in Washington in Vancouver, Seattle or the Tri Cities.
Name: Jerrica Landin
Pronouns: She/her
Date of birth: Oct. 24, 2006
Height: 5-foot-6
Weight: 130 pounds
Hair: Reddish brown
Eye color: Brown
Other identifying information: Jerrica has a tattoo of a heart on her neck below her right ear. She often dyes her hair red, pink and purple.
Portland Police Bureau Case #23-803125
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #1489518
Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.
Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.
PART 2 – Newsweek Podcast Focusing on The Disappearance of Fauna Frey From Lane County
Here One Minute, Gone the Next —-– PART 2 – Josephine County Sheriff Dave Daniel joins investigative journalist Alex Rogue to speak with Here One Minute, Gone the Next about the disappearance of Fauna Frey, the growing friction between citizen investigators and law enforcement, and the lack of resources in missing persons cases. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-disappearance-of-fauna-frey-pt2-feat-sheriff/id1707094441?i=1000630100040
PART 1 – John Frey joins Newsweek to discuss exclusive details about the case of his missing daughter that until now have been unavailable to the general public.
If you have any information on the whereabouts of Fauna Frey, call the anonymous tip line at 541-539-5638 or email FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com. — Help Find Fauna Frey #FindFaunaFrey FACEBOOK GROUP
