Category: ktvz-local-news

Matthew Draxton

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon taxpayers must file their tax year 2025 federal and state personal income tax returns by midnight Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The Oregon Department of Revenue has information and options available for taxpayers during the final filing period. Oregon is returning $1.41 billion in revenue above projections to taxpayers through a “kicker” tax credit.

As of Friday, the Department of Revenue has processed 1.5 million of an expected 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns.

The kicker is a refundable credit that will increase a taxpayer’s Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes owed. It will not be sent to taxpayers separately as a check. Taxpayers must file a return to receive the kicker.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. Taxpayers can determine their kicker amount using the “What’s My Kicker?” calculator, which is available on Revenue Online.

Taxpayers can check the status of their Oregon state income tax refund through Revenue’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool. Logging in to a Revenue Online account provides enhanced features for this tool. New Revenue Online accounts can be created by following the link on the department’s website.

Due to recent changes in U.S. Postal Service processes, taxpayers dropping paper returns into a U.S. Postal Service mailbox at this late date cannot be certain their returns will be postmarked by the due date. Taxpayers who want to mail their return can take it to a U.S. Postal Service office during regular business hours no later than April 15, 2026 and make an in-person request to have it manually postmarked at the counter before mailing.

Revenue staff will accept and date stamp returns in the lobby of the Revenue headquarters building in Salem from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Tax Day, Wednesday, April 15. Taxpayers can also hand deliver their returns to Department of Revenue Regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford and Portland during regular business hours.

After hours, paper Oregon personal income tax returns can be deposited in drop boxes. These drop boxes are available on both the east and west sides of the Salem office, on the west side of the Portland State Office Building and outside the Department of Revenue offices in Eugene, Medford and Bend. A drop box inside the department’s Gresham office is available during business hours.

The department does not recommend using state drop boxes for federal returns. Paper federal returns should be sent to the IRS. Federal returns dropped in Department of Revenue drop boxes are date stamped and forwarded to the IRS, but the Department of Revenue cannot guarantee that the IRS will accept them as having been filed on time.

Taxpayers can use Free Fillable Forms to file their federal return and Direct File Oregon to file their Oregon personal income tax return directly with the state through Revenue Online. Other free electronic filing options are available for taxpayers meeting income requirements. Using links from the department’s website ensures both federal and state returns will be filed for free.

Public computer kiosks for filing taxes with Direct File Oregon and free fillable forms are available in department regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford and Portland. Oregon taxpayers needing free assistance can find free tax assistance sites, including IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites, Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) or AARP Foundation TaxAide locations, on the Department of Revenue Department’s interactive map or through the United Way’s MyFreeTaxes program.

Individuals who are not able to file by midnight Wednesday can file an extension directly with the Oregon Department of Revenue or with the IRS. If the IRS extension is granted, the Oregon extension is automatically granted.

A timely filed extension moves the federal tax filing deadline and the Oregon filing deadline to Oct. 15, 2026. Taxpayers should request an Oregon extension if they do not have a federal extension, owe Oregon taxes and cannot file their return by April 15, 2026. An extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay any tax owed. Taxpayers unable to pay the full amount they owe should pay what they can to avoid late payment penalties.

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Silas Moreau

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Renowned Cellist Peter Wiley and pianist Anna Polonsky will return to Central Oregon to perform High Desert Chamber Music’s Celebrity Recitals on April 20, 2026, in Bend.

The program includes a selection of works: Beethoven’s Variations on The Magic Flute, Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata and Rachmaninoff’s Sonata in G minor, Op. 19.

The upcoming performance marks the return of the artists to Central Oregon after their appearance on the High Desert Chamber Music Concert Series in 2017. High Desert Chamber Music is currently in its eighteenth season of bringing classical music to the community.

Isabelle Senger, executive Director for High Desert Chamber Music, expressed enthusiasm for the musicians’ return. “We are delighted to welcome Wiley and Polonsky back to Central Oregon,” Senger said. “Their previous visit left a lasting impression on our audience and this return—made possible through long-standing artistic relationships—highlights the kind of meaningful connections that continue to shape our Concert Series and bring extraordinary music to our community.”

Wiley was a member of the Beaux Arts Trio from 1987 to 1998. He later succeeded his teacher, David Soyer, as cellist of the Guarneri String Quartet from 2001 to 2009.

Wiley is an Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient and has been nominated twice for Grammy Awards. He was accepted into the Curtis Institute of Music at age 13 and became principal cellist of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra at 20.

During his tenure with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Wiley connected with Phillip Ruder, who is now a Bend resident and an advisory board member for High Desert Chamber Music. Ruder helped facilitate Wiley’s visit to Central Oregon nearly a decade ago.

Pianist Polonsky is sought after as both a soloist and chamber musician. She is a recipient of a Borletti-Buitoni Trust Fellowship and the Andrew Wolf Chamber Music Award. Polonsky made her solo debut at age 7 in Moscow. She later continued her studies at the Curtis Institute of Music and The Juilliard School.

High Desert Chamber Music’s mission is to bring exceptional chamber music and musicians to Central Oregon. The organization presents an acclaimed series of classical chamber music concerts that feature a roster of professional performing artists.

Tickets for the Celebrity Recital are available through High Desert Chamber Music online, by phone or in person at their office located in Downtown Bend. Title sponsorship for the event is provided by Pahlisch Homes, Newberry Hotel, Cascade A&E, Central Oregon Daily and Combined Communications.

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Kelsey Merison

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) — A joint response by Oregon State Police and the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office ended in a fatal officer-involved shooting Sunday evening following a pursuit that began with a traffic stop.

According to authorities, the incident started at approximately 6:55 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 26 and East Brightwood Loop Road, where a state trooper made contact with a motorist believed to be impaired. During the encounter, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, prompting a coordinated pursuit by state and county law enforcement officers.

The chase continued eastbound until the suspect’s vehicle was stopped near Barlow Trail Roadhouse. Authorities reported that the situation escalated at that location, culminating in the use of deadly force by officers. The suspect was struck by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials confirmed that no law enforcement personnel or members of the public were injured during the incident.

The case is now under investigation by the Clackamas County Major Crimes Team, working in coordination with the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office. This approach follows standard protocol for officer-involved shootings.

Authorities stated that any future updates regarding the investigation will be released by the District Attorney’s Office.

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Tracee Tuesday

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Riders from across the country took on big jumps and sharp turns at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds this weekend for the Great Northwest Nationals — part of the USA BMX National Series.

The event brought dozens of elite racers to the First Interstate Bank Center at the fairgrounds, including competitors from two local teams — Bend BMX and Smith Rock BMX. The national series is one of the sport’s most prestigious circuits, drawing riders from all corners of the United States to compete for rankings and championship points.

Olivia Armstrong, who coaches both Bend BMX and Smith Rock BMX, said the chance for local riders to compete so close to home is something special.

“It’s so cool,” Armstrong said. “We have two tracks here, and so having these kids be able to come 40 minutes from their house and race a national event — they don’t know how special that is. Because these people are traveling from all over the country to come to Redmond, Oregon and have this in their backyard. So we’re very fortunate to have it here at the Expo Center.”

The competitions continue Sunday (April 12, 2026) starting at 8 a.m. at the fairgrounds, with racers chasing podium spots and points toward national titles.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Friends, family, and fellow adventurers are gathering this weekend to celebrate the life and legacy of Bend native Stratton Matteson.

Matteson, a well-known split-boarder and experienced outdoorsman, was killed in an avalanche on Feb. 26 at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park in British Columbia. He was a prominent figure in Central Oregon’s backcountry community and the owner of a local bicycle-based landscaping business.

Organizers say Sunday’s (April 12, 2026) event will be a day filled with laughter, music, and movement in Matteson’s honor — a reflection of his deep love for the outdoors and his community spirit.

Friends and neighbors will come together for games and a community bike ride through Bend, finishing with an outdoor screening of Matteson’s film “Sierra to Baker.”

The celebration begins at 2 p.m. at Miller’s Landing Park, with the group ride starting at 5:30 p.m. and the movie at 7:30 p.m.

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Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The red carpet rolled out Saturday night at the Riverhouse Lodge for a special celebration, the second annual “Permission to Dance” prom, created for people with disabilities to enjoy a night of music, dancing, and connection.

From sparkling dresses to smiling faces, guests experienced a full prom experience — complete with a DJ, photo booth, food, and plenty of fun giveaways.

“I have been waiting for this day,” said Lydia, one of the prom participants. Another attendee, Makaio, said his favorite part was meeting the DJ and even getting a chance to pick a song to play.

The evening wasn’t just memorable for participants, but for their families as well.

“And just to bring some joy in the lives of these kids,” said Wendy Edde, mother of one of the participants. “It’s all inclusive, and it’s wonderful to see the community come together and really support.”

Volunteers and community members made sure every guest felt celebrated. Carlie Shields, who flew home from college just to help with the event, said it was worth every mile.

“It’s very meaningful, because it’s giving kids an opportunity to express themselves in ways they may not feel comfortable in other settings,” Shields said.

Of course, no prom would be complete without a King and Queen — and plenty of smiles on the dance floor.

Every person who attended left with a story to tell — and a memory to keep — from a night where everyone truly had “permission to dance.”

Earlier story:

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) —The Second Annual Permission to Dance Prom will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at The Riverhouse in Bend, Ore. Due to the event’s popularity, it is currently full.

Scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the prom provides attendees with a traditional dance experience in a supportive and welcoming environment. The evening will feature a live DJ, an energetic dance floor, appetizers, desserts, and a photo booth to document the celebration.

KTVZ’s Spencer Sacks will be at the prom and will have a full report from the sights and sounds of the fun event. Tune in tonight for KTVZ News at 10pm on Fox and KTVZ News at 11pm on NBC.

The prom is completely free of charge for all participants. This accessibility is maintained through donations from individuals, businesses and community partners throughout Central Oregon’s three counties.

Major sponsors for the 2026 event include The Riverhouse and the Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon. Various other organizations committed to inclusive community programming also provided support for the evening.

Robert Tadjiki, the event organizer, emphasized that creating environments where individuals with disabilities feel accepted requires active planning. He noted that the prom serves as a significant opportunity for connection within the region.

“Opportunities for individuals with disabilities to truly be themselves and feel accepted in their community don’t just happen—they take intention and effort,” Tadjiki said. “That’s what makes this night so meaningful. Permission to Dance Prom is a chance for people from across Central Oregon to experience the joy of dancing, connection and celebration. It’s not just a gift for those attending—it’s a reminder for all of us to celebrate life, inclusion and what it means to belong.”

Organizers hope to grow the event each year. They plan to use the annual celebration to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive community experiences for individuals with disabilities.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A longtime downtown Bend dining spot is getting a fresh new identity.

Drake, located on Northwest Wall Street, will serve its final meals Sunday (April 12, 2026) before temporarily closing for a full rebrand. The popular restaurant has been a staple in the downtown dining scene for years, known for its upscale comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.

KTVZ can exclusively reveal that when the restaurant reopens Memorial Day weekend, May 23 through 26, it will debut under a new name — Olive & May. Owners say the new concept will feature a refreshed menu and updated look, while keeping the same emphasis on local flavor and quality service.

In a statement, the owners said the rebrand reflects their goal to evolve with the community and continue offering a space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy downtown Bend’s growing dining scene.

Olive & May is expected to officially open Memorial Day weekend.

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Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Verizon customers across Central Oregon are experiencing a service outage on Saturday.

Here’s what we know so far:

The outage began around 10 p.m. Friday night and is affecting communities across Central Oregon and as far north as Salem. Verizon officials say they’re still investigating the cause and don’t yet know when service will be restored.

We’ll keep you updated as we learn more.

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Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Furnish Hope in Bend was chosen for this month’s Pay It Forward segment, which recognizes individuals and organizations making a positive impact in the community.

Through the Pay It Forward initiative with Mid Oregon Credit Union and Dutch Bros Coffee, Furnish Hope received a $500 award. The organization helps transform empty houses into fully furnished homes for people in need.

“On behalf of Dutch Bros Coffee and Mid Oregon Credit Union we would like to give you this $500. Wow thank you,” representatives said during the presentation.

The donation will support Furnish Hope’s Match Program, which aims to raise $50,000 before its grand opening and the unveiling of a new warehouse. Executive Director Megan Martin is encouraging community members to join the effort and “pay it forward.”

“Take each of these $100 bills and invite the listeners out there to consider what your gift of $100 would do. Just imagine a $100 gift being multiplied dollars for dollar and turning into a $50,000 match. All we need are 500 people out there, 500 people that believe in the mission of what we do, which is bringing hope to people throughout our community by showing up with something so simple and basic as household furnishings,” Martin said.

Over the past seven years, Furnish Hope has furnished more than 3,000 homes for families in need.

More information and donation opportunities are available at furnishhope.com.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The annual national recertification event for the U.S. Forest Service Helicopter Rappel Program is planned next week west of Bend, adjacent to Forest Service Road 41.

The event is scheduled to start next Monday, April 13, and run through April 21, officials said Friday. Additional days are possible if weather impacts helicopter operations.

During the training dates, the public can expect to see up to six helicopters hovering in the air west of Forest Service Road 41 and south of the Cascade Lakes Highway at any given time between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., including on weekends. 

While no trail or road closures are anticipated, officials say those recreating along Forest Service Road 41 and adjacent trails should adhere to any posted signage and avoid closed areas for their safety and the safety of training participants.

The national rappel event will provide certification for 65 spotters and 185 veteran rappellers. 

Rappellers are aerial-delivered wildland firefighters who rappel out of a helicopter to fight wildfires that are often in remote, difficult-to-reach locations.

In addition to initial attack, rappel crews also respond to large fires, all-hazard incident operations, and resource management objectives.

For further questions, contact the Deschutes National Forest at (541) 383-5300.

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