Jefferson County
Warm Springs Tribe Raises Alarm Over Long-Term Columbia River Impacts From Longview Chemical Spill
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs is urging state and federal agencies to keep a sustained focus on the Columbia River in the aftermath of the deadly Longview paper mill disaster, expressing concern about long-term effects on tribal fishing rights, water quality, and ecosystem health.
Events
Today Is the Last Day of the Madras Rock and Gem Show — Noon Closing at Jefferson County Event Complex
The annual Madras Rock and Gem Show wraps up today, Sunday June 28, at noon at the Jefferson County Event Complex. If you haven't been yet, this morning is your last chance to explore hundreds of specimens, minerals, fossils, and handcrafted jewelry.
Election 2026
Jefferson County Sheriff's Race: Where Things Stand as November Approaches
The May primary is behind us, and Jefferson County's most closely watched race is now set for November: incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock vs. challenger Tyler Anderson, whose law enforcement credentials are under review by the state's police oversight committee.
Sports
Race Day: Madras Dragstrip Hosts Full Weekend of Competition Starting Today
The Madras Dragstrip is running a full race weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 28-29, with gates open at 8 a.m. and racing starting at 9:30 a.m. both days. It's one of the last race weekends before the summer heat fully sets in.
Business
Shorty's Taphouse in Culver Is Becoming a Community Hub — and the Town Needed It
Open for about six months on Iris Lane in Culver, Shorty's Taphouse has added food trucks, live music, farmer's markets, and themed nights to build the kind of community gathering spot that small-town Oregon rarely has.
Local News
Jefferson County Moves Forward with Utility-Scale Battery Storage Project in Madras
Jefferson County commissioners have approved a site control agreement for a proposed battery energy storage project near Madras, allowing a feasibility study to move forward on what could become a significant addition to the county's clean energy portfolio.