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.
Local News
COCC Faculty Contract Dispute Hits Formal Impasse — Madras Campus Students and Staff Watch Closely
Central Oregon Community College and its Faculty Forum union have declared a formal impasse after more than seven months of contract bargaining, with a roughly $4 million gap separating the two sides on compensation. The standoff affects all COCC campuses, including Madras.
Business
Madras McDonald's Rebuilds After February Fire — Grand Opening Targeted for Late 2026
Construction is underway on Madras's only McDonald's, which has been closed since a February fire damaged the drive-thru. Owner Paul Rodby says a grand opening is planned for late 2026, with 30 to 40 new jobs on the way.
Jefferson County
Two New Faces Join Madras City Council After Back-to-Back Resignations
The Madras City Council appointed Christopher Heden and Tony Chard on Tuesday to fill two seats left vacant by the resignations of councilors Mike Seibold and Lamar Yoder. Both will serve through the end of the year.
Sports
White Buffaloes Hit the Field: Madras High School Fall Sports Season Opens
Football, volleyball, soccer, and cross country are all underway at Madras High School as the White Buffaloes kick off the 2026–27 fall sports season — a welcome return to Friday night lights for the Jefferson County community.