Events
Labor Day Weekend Roundup: VFW Beef Raffle, Health Inspections, and Community Notes
From a VFW beef raffle benefiting Jefferson County Fair 4-H and FFA kids to a clean sweep in August restaurant health inspections, here's what's happening around Jefferson County this Labor Day weekend.
Local News
Madras Not Entertaining Data Center Proposals, Interim City Administrator Says
As Oregon lawmakers and communities grapple with a surge in large data center proposals, Madras Interim City Administrator David Clyne says the city is not pursuing any such project in Jefferson County.
Jefferson County
Madras City Council Fills Two Vacant Seats with Heden and Chard Appointments
The Madras City Council appointed Christopher Heden and Tony Chard on Tuesday to fill two seats left vacant by council resignations, adding new voices to city government through the end of 2026.
Weather
Fire Restrictions Drop to Stage 1 Across Central Oregon as Cooler Weather Arrives
Fire officials reduced public land fire restrictions from Stage 2 to Stage 1 overnight Friday, citing recent moisture and cooler temperatures — but warn that fire danger remains high heading into the Labor Day weekend.
Public Safety
Open Burning Closed Countywide as Jefferson County Enters Peak Fire Season
Jefferson County Fire & EMS has closed all open burning effective this season, and the region is still feeling the effects of a summer that included the human-caused Round Butte Fire. Residents are reminded that fire danger remains extreme across Central Oregon.
Sports
White Buffalos Open Volleyball Season with Sweep of Culver — 'Big Goals This Year'
The Madras White Buffalos volleyball team rolled to a 3-0 win over rival Culver on Wednesday in a high-energy season opener. Key contributors included Anna Turo, Marlee Simmelink, Janelle Pineda, and senior Ana Boyle.