The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com
Friday, March 8, 2024
Oregon Beach Weather
...HAZARDOUS SEAS WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 7 PM PST SATURDAY... ...GALE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY EVENING THROUGH SUNDAY AFTERNOON... * WHAT...For the Hazardous Seas Warning, very steep and hazardous seas 12 to 17 ft at 13 seconds expected. For the Gale Watch, southwest winds 30 to 40 kt with occasional gusts up to 50 kt and seas 21 to 26 ft at 10 seconds possible. * WHERE...All areas between Florence and Pt. St. George. * WHEN...For the Hazardous Seas Warning, from 4 PM Friday to 7 PM PST Saturday. For the Gale Watch, from Saturday evening through Sunday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Strong winds and very steep seas could capsize or damage vessels. Low visibility conditions are possible. * View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks
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)
Astoria Police Searching for Attempted Murder Suspect
Astoria Police Department says they are searching for a 30 year old man after an attempted murder at the Port of Astoria Boatyard.
On Thursday night, the fire department was called out to a report of a man injured in a fall at Pier 3. However, police say it was later determined the victim’s injuries were not the result of a fall. The victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment. His current condition is not known.
Detectives identified the suspect as Dylan Xavier Campana. Campana has not been located at this time, and police say he should be considered armed and dangerous.
Astoria Police are asking anyone with information on Campana’s whereabouts or about the crime to contact Detective Madyson Hanna at 503-325-4411 or email mhanna@astoria.or.us.
Firefighters on the Siuslaw National Forest are preparing to conduct a 54-acre prescribed burn near Tahkenitch Beach in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area on Friday, March 8. The purpose of the prescribed burn is to support habitat improvements for the threatened western snowy plover by removing European beach grass.
Trained firefighting personnel will ignite the vegetation and monitor the burn. Like all prescribed burns, the burn near Tahkenitch will have a pre-approved burn plan that includes a range of parameters to help identify the ‘windows’ of opportunity considered for conducting a burn, such as weather and fuel moisture.
Tahkenitch Beach is located five miles north of Dunes City and twelve miles north of Reedsport. The burn will take place approximately two miles to the west of Highway 101. While there are no anticipated closures for this prescribed burn, smoke could be visible from the Oregon Dunes Overlook and Day Use Area. Rain is anticipated for the upcoming weekend.
If unsure whether smoke or a fire is from a planned burn, citizens can contact their local fire department or the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Office at 541-271-6000.
Yachats Seeking Applicants for Vacancy On City Council
The city of Yachats is seeking applicants for a vacancy on the city council that was created with the Feb. 21 resignation of Greg Scott.
Applications to serve the remainder of the term, which ends Dec. 31, are due by May 31. Applicants must be registered to vote in Oregon and have lived in Yachats for 12 months prior to appointment.
Council members meet once a month for regular sessions and once a month for work sessions. Additional time commitments may include committee meetings, budget meetings and more.
Responsibilities include the ability to learn about a wide variety of issues, a willingness to consider differing opinions during decision-making and understanding how the council functions and operates through the city charter. Good communication and willingness to accept majority rule are crucial to the position, as well as analytical skill, acceptance of public criticism and a sense of humor, according to the city’s announcement.
A new council member may be chosen before the May 31 application deadline, said Mayor Craig Berdie. Candidates will be interviewed and chosen during public meetings.
Applications and information about the position is available at: https://www.yachatsoregon.org/FormCenter/Volunteer-Forms-9/City-of-Yachats-Application-for-Vacant-C-82 (SOURCE)
Oregon Health Plan Launches New Health Benefit In Coos And Curry Counties
One of three Oregon Health Plan Health-Related Social Needs Benefits just became available to members in OHP’s effort to address health detriments that aren’t a medical diagnosis.
On March 1, OHP launched its climate benefit for members in Coos and Curry counties who are assigned to Advanced Health; they’ll also add housing and food benefits in the coming months.
Members are eligible to receive climate devices such as air conditioners, heaters, medical refrigerators, portable power supplies, and air filtration devices
Amanda McCarthy, director of social determinants of health for Advanced Health says if members aren’t living comfortably in extreme weather, they’re less likely to manage chronic conditions.
“They have trouble keeping them under control which leads to emergency room visits, extra primary care visits, extra medication,” said McCarthy. “What we’re really aiming to do is meet the most vulnerable populations who could encounter negative health outcomes due to excessive heat, excessive cold, poor air quality, or the inability to store life-saving medications or run life-saving medical devices in inclement weather.”
Advanced Health Community Engagement Manager Sam Baugh tells us the coming food and housing benefits would meet those social needs.
“Approximately a third of our population is on our Oregon Health Plan which means their income is lower. For the housing, it’s designed to help people stay in housing as opposed to becoming homeless. The food and nutrition is designed to help teach people what healthy eating actually looks like and is designed to help them understand and get the needed nutrition into their homes,” said Baugh.
To access the new benefit, members can be referred by one of Advanced Health’s community partners like Oregon Coast Community Action (ORCCA), or they may contact their primary care doctor.
The housing benefit is expected to go live in November, and the food benefit could become available as soon as January of next year. — For more information, visit: https://advancedhealth.com/members/health-related-social-needs/.
Coos County Man Arrested for Domestic Violence
On March 4th, 2024, around 3:12 am, Coos County Dispatch received a report of a domestic disturbance in a motorhome at the end of the North Spit in North Bend. It was reported that the male involved had choked, punched, and threatened to kill a female. Deputy Z. Smith responded to investigate.Upon arrival, Deputy Smith quickly learned that the male, a Coos County resident, Jayson Bridges (51), had argued with the victim over perceived statements.
During the argument, Mr. Bridges struck the victim in the face (3) times, choked her, and put her in fear for her life.Deputy Smith arrested Mr. Bridges for the domestic crimes of Assault in the 4th Degree, Harassment, Strangulation, and Menacing. Mr. Bridges was transported to the Coos County Jail where he was booked, processed, and remains in custody.
Man and woman arrested in Bandon on drug possession charges due to be released due to Oregon State Revised Statute 475.898 giving offenders Immunity from some drug-related offenses when calling for emergency medical assistance
Due to Oregon State Revised Statue 475.898, which gives offenders immunity from some drug-related offenses when calling for emergency medical assistance, Diana Gonzalezsolis (52) and Rogelio S. Espinosa (40) will be released from the Coos County Jail.
The charges of Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Manufacture of Heroin, and Felon in Possession of a firearm arm will still be pursued and work their way through the judicial process.
It is important to note that, due to aggressive hiring efforts by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office to open more jail space, these offenders would have been held in custody, if not for ORS 475.898.The narcotics, U.S. currency, and involved vehicle remain in Sheriff’s Office custody.
The Sheriff’s Office and S.C.I.N.T. are undeterred and remain committed to taking these illegal substances and drug traffickers off our streets while working within the laws of the United States and the State of Oregon. (See link Below for ORS information)https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_475.898
Oregon Senators Announce $27 Million To Support Pacific Salmon Recovery
On Thursday, Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced an investment of $27 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to help support recovery efforts for Pacific salmon populations.
A joint release said the federal funds are available due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act.
This investment builds on several projects Senator Wyden has supported, including a $2.5 million grant in 2022 to replace larger culverts on five rivers in the Tillamook Bay basin to increase salmon and other fish habitat.
Wyden said, “This federal investment is going to go a long way in making sure the salmon, which is so central to our culture and economies here in Oregon, recover from the population decline we have seen year after year”. Wyden said, “We have much work to do, but these actions will help build on the past successful projects such as restoring spawning grounds, establishing a Salmon Superhighway, and easing stress on migration routes”.
Merkley said, “The health of communities across Oregon goes hand-in-hand with the health of our state’s waterways, fish habitats and infrastructure”. Merkley said, “These federal investments will support initiatives to help strengthen natural infrastructure and reconnect fish habitats and migration routes – initiatives critical to boosting salmon recovery efforts and investing in the long-term viability of Oregon’s coastal communities”.
The release said additional funding is allocated to research projects that will benefit salmon populations and recovery efforts. These investments by NOAA from the Inflation Reduction Act amount to a total investment of $42 million nationally to address issues with salmon populations and restoration programs. (SOURCE)
Suspect Sought in Florence Area Shooting
Lane County sheriff’s deputies are seeking the public’s help in finding a suspect allegedly involved in a shooting that seriously injured a man in the Florence area on Monday evening, according to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office.
LCSO officials said deputies responded with Florence police officers at about 10:30 p.m. on February 26 to a reported shooting in the area of the Goose Pasture Staging Area on South Jetty Road. Responding deputies and officers found a male victim who had shot while inside his trailer and suffered serious gunshot-related injuries, authorities said.
Sheriff’s officials said that the victim was transported to the hospital and is reportedly in stable condition. Detectives are continuing to actively investigate the incident but have not yet located the involved suspect, authorities said.
LCSO said that anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact Detective Hudson at 541-682-4150, select option 1, and reference case number 24-0990,
North Bend Increases City Service Fees
The North Bend city council unanimously approved a 3.2% increase in fees relating to city services during the last city council meeting. Resolution 3342 was approved, authorizing an increase to city fees and charges, revising the master fee schedule of the city. This increase affects administration fees like parking tickets and licenses, pool fees, public work fees, and building fees.
This year’s increase is a lower percentage than previous years, which was a 5.9% increase in 2022. And an 8.7% increase in 2023. The Finance Director for the city says this is due to the 2024 cost of living adjustment, which aims to help people keep up with their expenses.
The annual increase comes from a regular review of city fees and charges in which the city aims to recover cost of living services and products.
Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon
· Tip of the Week For the Week of March 4, 2024 — Problem Gambling Awareness
March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) and it’s a great reminder that activities, like gambling, can become a problem and impact our communities in different ways. Gambling can be an activity that is used for recreation and fun, but gambling interacts with our brains in the same way alcohol, drugs, and other “low-effort, high-reward” activities do. Because of this, gambling can become an addiction. Problem gambling is the continuation of gambling activities despite personal, social, or financial consequences. Gambling problems are more than just a money issue.
Each year problem gambling effects our communities with social impacts such as gambling-related crime which can include embezzling money or burglaries and thefts to help pay gambling debts. Aside from the financial and criminal consequences, problem gambling also negatively impacts relationships. For every one person with a gambling disorder, it is estimated that an additional eight to ten others are affected. Workplaces may see a decrease in productivity, an increase in absences, and other issues if an employee has a gambling disorder. Family and friends often feel replaced by someone’s gambling and can bear the burden of picking up additional responsibilities -both financially, like paying bills on time, and socially, such as increased responsibilities with family, pets, or homecare. Problem gambling is often referred to as the “hidden addiction” because it is easy to hide and can be difficult for others to notice, but there are some warning signs you can look for.
Problem gambling warning signs: 
Distracted with thoughts of gambling Spending more time and money gambling Lying or hiding gambling activity Risking or damaging relationships Being irritable when not gambling Gambling to win back losses (also known as chasing losses) Exaggerating wins and minimizing losses Borrowing money Gambling debts Missing work or other responsibilities
If you choose to gamble, there are ways to reduce the risk of gambling becoming a problem. Setting a time limit, balancing life with other social and recreational activities, and avoiding alcohol while gambling are some of the recommended responsible gambling guidelines. You can find more responsible gambling guidelines by visiting www.opgr.org/prevention-resources/.In Oregon, FREE problem gambling treatment and support is available for someone with a gambling disorder and those that may be affected by someone’s problem gambling.
Free problem gambling treatment and support: 
Lincoln County Problem Gambling Treatment 
Phone: 541-265-6611 Ext 3324 
Oregon Problem Gambling Resource Phone: 1-877-695-4648 Text: 503-713-6000 Chat on website: OPGR.org
Coos Bay’s Property Watch Program Enhances Safety for Local Property Owners
The Property Watch program in Coos Bay aims to enhance community awareness. Initiated by the Coos Bay Police Department (CBPD) in 2019, the program helps commercial property owners, businesses, and apartment complexes to curb incidents that happen after business hours or in the absence of the owner or manager. The CBPD can address non-criminal issues on private property, like loitering nonresidents or unauthorized vehicles.
The Property Watch program follows successful models from other Oregon law enforcement agencies. It works on a legal basis of a signed agreement between the property owner or manager and the CBPD, giving the CBPD the right to deal with individuals on private property and ask them to leave if needed.
The program’s objective is to give the CBPD legal authority to help property owners and managers keep their properties safe when they are away. This is especially useful for properties that are prone to incidents after business hours.
Enrollment in the program is free and can be renewed annually. Property owners and managers can opt out at any time, offering them the flexibility to use the program as required, and enhancing the security of their properties.
For more details about the Property Watch program, interested individuals can reach out to the CBPD on their non-emergency line. The program is a useful tool for property owners and managers in Coos Bay, offering extra help in ensuring the safety and security of their properties. MORE INFO: https://www.coosbayor.gov/Home/Components/News/News/1023/222
BANDON CRAB FESTIVAL — March 9th
Join your fellow seafood lovers for a crab dinner, music, dancing, and fun.
Crabbing holds a special place in the heart of the Bandon community. To celebrate and pay homage to this cherished tradition, we are thrilled to announce the third-annual Bandon Crab Fest, taking place on the second weekend of March 2024.
This delightful event will feature a scrumptious dinner accompanied by live music and dancing. We have invited some of Bandon’s most beloved musicians to entertain you throughout the meal. Trust us, the Annual Bandon Crab Fest is an experience you don’t want to miss!
The Bandon Crab Festival was established as a “rotating fundraiser,” with the proceeds from previous events benefiting the Bandon High Industrial Arts vocation class and the Bandon Historical Museum. In 2024, we proudly announce that the Bandon and Pacific Booster Clubs will be the beneficiaries of this year’s festivities.
Join us for a shell of a good time at the Crab Fest Fundraiser!
Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay North County News
Our GoBag Pop-Up Shop is back by popular demand after a seasonal break. Get a complete GoBag or choose individual items.
https://evcnb.org/events-and-training/gobag-popup-03092024Last change to order your fully stocked and ready GoBag or individual GoBag supplies .Pick up is this weekend, Saturday, March 9, from 1-1:30 PM at the Manzanita Police Station.
Learn important communication skills necessary during an emergency. You’ll be able to use your Yellow Radio to keep in touch with neighbors and support services.
Register now! https://evcnb.org/events-and-training/yellow-radio-03162024 —- https://evcnb.org/yellow-radio
Forest Service Seeks Concessionaire For Devils Churn Day Use Site
The Siuslaw National Forest is soliciting proposals for a business opportunity at the Devils Churn Day Use Site within the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. A 100-square-foot concession space is available within a Forest Service building, and the agency is seeking a food and beverage service provider to operate this facility. Devils Churn is a popular year-round day use area and trailhead along U.S. Highway 101 just south of Yachats, Oregon.
The Forest Service has released a prospectus to advertise the opportunity and explain the application process. Interested parties are encouraged to review the prospectus and accompanying appendices. The application period opens on January 30, 2024. Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3. Please read the instructions carefully before submitting an application.
One successful applicant will be chosen. The successful applicant will be issued a 5-year special use permit to conduct business in the concession space. MORE INFO: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/siuslaw/home/?cid=fseprd1162886
Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy – Waldport
Lincoln Co. Sheriff’s Office
More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office will partner with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.
These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you’re a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with deputies on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
The City of Reedsport is Seeking a City Attorney
A City release said they are inviting proposals for contracted attorney service. For a list of duties and services required, go to the city’s website: www.cityofreedsport.org. Proposals are due to the city recorder’s office by 4:00 p.m. this Friday. Call 541-271-3603 for more information.
Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Drawing to Promote Tourism
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is consistently working on building the tourism traffic to Florence. The latest is a drawing for a two-night stay at the Driftwood Shores Conference Center and Resort.
The drawing is open to the public. Chamber President and CEO Betting Hannigan says the drawing comes with the two-night stay and a $50 certificate to the resort Market and Dine-in Deli.
You can register by using the qr code the link posted below. https://bit.ly/2NightsinFlorence
Florence Café 60 Senior Meals Program Reopens for Dine-In Meals
Lane Council of Government’s Senior Meals Program is reopening its Café 60 location in Florence after being closed for the past three years.
LCOG officials said that during the closure, LCOG’s Senior and Disability Services division offered grab-and-go meals but the reopening of Café 60 will provide a dine-in location for seniors who might otherwise go hungry. The Florence location will reopen on December 4 and operate three days a week at 11:15 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Florence Senior Center located at 1570 Kingwood Street, LCOG officials said.
Organizers said that interested seniors should make reservations at least a week in advance by calling ahead at 541-997-5673 or filling out a reservation menu at the Café 60 location. The program is open at no cost to seniors 60 years of age or over and those not 60 years or older are welcome to join by paying the meal cost of $8, program organizers said. Donations are welcomed to support the program’s continued operation in the community, LCOG officials said.
Volunteers are also sought to help with the program and those who would like to participate may call 541-682-1366. More program information is also available here: https://www.lcog.org/sdslane/page/florence-caf%C3%A9-60-reopens-dine-meals
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)
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
83-year-old Clarence Edward Pitts walked away from his home in Bandon on Tuesday, January 31 at around 1:00 p.m. Pitts is described as:
- 6′ 00″
- 150 lbs
- Gray hair
- Brown eyes
- Last seen wearing an orange beanie, plaid jacket, tan pants and white shoes
- May have a walking cane
- Has dementia and PTSD
Pitts may be in a vehicle that was also found to be missing from the home:
- 1999 Toyota Van
- White
- Oregon license plate: WYN 788
If you see Clarence or have any information pertaining to where he may be, please call the Coos County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at 541-396-2106 or the Bandon Police Department at 541-347-3189.
Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com