Local News
Oregon Drought Persists Into Fall, Leaving Jefferson County Ranchers Watching the Sky
With 57.6% of Oregon still in some level of drought and conditions expected to continue through year's end, Jefferson County ranchers and agricultural producers face an uncertain winter outlook as irrigation reserves remain depleted from a punishing summer.
Events
Free Drive-Through Vaccine Clinic Coming to Crooked River Ranch on October 22
Jefferson County Public Health is hosting a drive-through flu and COVID vaccine clinic at the Crooked River Ranch Fire Hall on SW Shad Road from 3 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, October 22. No appointment needed.
Local News
Museum at Warm Springs Seeks Artists for 33rd Annual Exhibit; Pinktober Run Set for Monday
The Museum at Warm Springs has a Tuesday, October 20 deadline for judged entries in its 33rd Annual Tribal Member Art Exhibit. Meanwhile, the Community Wellness Center hosts a Pinktober Fun Run/Walk Monday in support of breast cancer survivors.
Sports
Madras Volleyball Star Simmelink Named Central Oregon Athlete of the Week
Madras High School junior outside hitter Sienna Simmelink earned Central Oregon Athlete of the Week honors after posting a combined 47 kills and 33 digs across two matches, including a dominant 25-kill, 16-dig performance in a 3-1 win over Molalla.
Public Safety
Jefferson County Schools Step Up Security After Bend Elementary Shooting
Law enforcement was deployed to schools across Jefferson County on Friday following a deadly shooting at Silver Rail Elementary in Bend that killed three children and a teacher. Officials confirmed no threats were made to local schools.
Public Safety
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Now Fully Staffed; Madras PD Still Recruiting
Three new corrections officers have joined the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, bringing the department to full staffing — a milestone for a rural agency that has navigated law enforcement recruitment challenges in recent years. The Madras Police Department is still seeking applicants.