Local News
Central Oregon Firearm Safety Initiative Distributed Over 1,700 Free Lockboxes Across Jefferson, Crook, and Deschutes Counties
A two-year firearm safety initiative has successfully distributed more than 1,700 free gun lockboxes across Jefferson, Crook, and Deschutes counties, according to a new evaluation report. The S.A.F.E. program is credited with reducing the availability of unsecured firearms that can contribute to suicide risk.
Local News
Warm Springs Health Program Hosts Dementia Education; Tribe Leads Lamprey Restoration Effort
The Warm Springs Community Health Program recently held a free dementia awareness session for local caregivers, while tribal biologists continue landmark work restoring Pacific lamprey to Oregon waterways in partnership with the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.
Events
Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo Opens in Four Days — Here's What to Expect July 22–25
The Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo returns to the Madras fairgrounds July 22–25, 2026, with livestock shows, 4-H and FFA exhibits, carnival rides, live music, rodeo action, and free homestead tours. It's the biggest community event of the summer — and it's just days away.
Sports
Jefferson County Little League Senior Softball Team Crowned Oregon State Champions, Heading to Regionals
The Jefferson County Little League Senior Softball All-Stars have captured the Oregon State Championship and will represent the state at the Regional Tournament in Missoula, Montana, July 23–28. Today, Saturday July 18, the team hosts a community fundraiser in Madras to help cover travel costs.
Public Safety
Wildfire Emergency: Brewer and Akawa Butte Fires Threaten Jefferson County — Evacuations in Effect
Two major wildfires are burning in Jefferson County Saturday as part of a regional outbreak triggered by a July 15 lightning storm. The Brewer Fire, east of Madras, has grown to 5,000 acres, while the Akawa Butte Fire near Crooked River Ranch has reached 5,000 acres with Level 1–3 evacuations in effect.
Local News
Over 1,700 Free Gun Lockboxes Distributed Across Jefferson, Crook, and Deschutes Counties in Suicide Prevention Drive
A new evaluation report shows the S.A.F.E. firearm safety initiative distributed more than 1,700 free gun lockboxes across three Central Oregon counties over two years, with Jefferson County among the communities reached in the effort to reduce firearm-related suicides.