A two-year partnership between the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and Energy Trust of Oregon has completed more than 40 energy efficiency projects, with improvements at the tribal fire station, medical clinic, and High Lookee Lodge projected to save $13,800 per year.

The Jefferson County Event Complex has received over $62,000 in grants from Visit Central Oregon and St. Charles Health System to improve the Corwin Arena, expand the Cowdeo youth rodeo, and enhance visitor safety signage.

Jefferson County School District 509J has been awarded a $478,860 annual grant from the Oregon Department of Education — one of only two districts in its region to receive the competitive funding — to sustain summer programming for more than 500 students.

A busy week on and off the Warm Springs Reservation: tribal member Theo Perez opened Longhouse Strong Coffee in Madras, elders gathered for Honor Seniors Day, tribal district council meetings are set for this week, and a free Alzheimer's conference comes to Warm Springs on May 13.

A two-year partnership between Energy Trust of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs has delivered more than 40 energy efficiency projects, including major upgrades at the Fire and Safety Building — which doubles as a medical clinic — and the High Lookee Lodge elder care facility.

The Jefferson County Event Complex has secured more than $62,000 in new grants from Visit Central Oregon and St. Charles Health System, funding infrastructure upgrades at Corwin Arena, the Cowdeo youth rodeo, and a new wayfinding signage project.

After 76 years serving Madras, Central Oregon Community College has more than doubled its campus footprint with a new 24,000-square-foot building and five new programs — including nursing, certified nursing assistant, and early childhood education offered in Spanish and English.

Cascades East Transit launched Route 21 on May 5, connecting Madras and Warm Springs to the remote Simnasho community and Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort. The flex-route service is free for the entire month of May.

Central Oregon Community College has opened a $22 million campus expansion in Madras, adding nursing, CNA, medical assistant, and early childhood education programs. The facility, built on 26 acres donated by the Bean Foundation, is designed to address local healthcare workforce shortages and boost the regional economy.

By Susan, Madras BulletinDate: [Today] Lede: Get ready, Central Oregon! This August, Madras Municipal Airport will once again host the Airshow of the Cascades—a thrilling weekend of aerial aerobatics, vintage warbirds, live music, fireworks, and family fun. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit to this major local event. ???? When & … Read more

???? Grassfire Near Madras Sparks Evacuations A brushfire erupted northeast of Madras on June 12, reportedly started when a homeowner mowing the lawn struck a rock that sparked flames amid brisk winds. ????️ Development & Budget Cuts in Local Services Recent announcements from The Madras Pioneer highlight two key community changes: ???? New Community Pharmacy and Agricultural Land Expansion … Read more