Madras Couple Follows a Classic Car — and Ends Up Winning a Trophy

Over The Edge Taphouse — Jefferson County's 2025 Business of the Year — has opened The Edge RV Park on adjacent property in Crooked River Ranch, adding 28 sites for visitors who want to extend their stay in the canyon country of Central Oregon.

A brand-new two-day tribute band festival drew roughly 2,000 people to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds last weekend, bringing out-of-town visitors and economic activity to Madras. Organizers say the event is planting permanent roots here.

Incumbents Mark Wunsch and Kelly Simmelink both won their primary races for Jefferson County Commissioner in May, setting up general election matchups in November. Meanwhile, the sheriff race is heading toward a November contest between incumbent Jason Pollock and Tyler Anderson — despite a state committee recommending Anderson lose his law enforcement credentials.

Central Oregon's largest employer cut 22 leadership roles and left 23 vacancies unfilled this week, saying it is rebalancing responsibilities amid rapid growth. No direct patient care positions were eliminated, but the cuts ripple across all four hospital campuses including Madras.

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs will host the annual Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days celebration June 26–28, marking more than 170 years since the signing of the 1855 treaty. Events are open to the public and include a powwow, parade, rodeo, stickgame tournament, and more.