Business
‘Made in Jefferson County’ Tour Spotlights Local Makers After Years-Long Hiatus
The Made in Jefferson County Tour returned to Madras after a years-long break, giving residents a behind-the-scenes look at three homegrown operations: Central Oregon Seeds, Keith Manufacturing, and Poland Organic Dairy.
Events
Jefferson County Pauses to Remember on 9/11’s 25th Anniversary
From a veterans’ charity golf tournament at Crooked River Ranch Golf Club to quiet moments of reflection across the county, Jefferson County joins the nation in marking 25 years since the September 11 attacks.
Local News
A Hard Harvest: Jefferson County Farmers Close Out a Drought-Shortened Growing Season
With reduced water allocations, a state drought emergency declaration, and 94% of Jefferson County under severe drought, the 2026 growing season has tested area farmers in ways many call among the worst in decades.
Sports
White Buffalos Football Opens at Home Tonight Against Phoenix, Looking to Rebound
Madras takes the field for its home opener at 6:30 p.m. Friday against the Phoenix Pirates, one week after falling 35-14 in a road opener at Molalla.
Local News
Jefferson County 509J Opens 2026-27 School Year After $2 Million in Budget Adjustments — No Teacher Layoffs
Jefferson County School District 509J started the 2026-27 school year having cut roughly $2 million from its budget — managing the reductions through attrition and contract changes rather than teacher layoffs, as falling enrollment continues to reshape district finances.
Jefferson County
Madras City Council Seats Two New Members, Begins to Stabilize After Summer of Departures
Tony Chard and Christopher Heden were sworn in September 1, filling two of three vacant Madras City Council seats and restoring a working majority as the city heads into a busy fall agenda.