Section
Local News
Local News
Historic First: COCC Awards Associate Degrees to Incarcerated Students at Deer Ridge in Madras
Nine incarcerated students at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution in Madras received associate’s degrees from Central Oregon Community College in a June 9 ceremony — the first time the milestone has been reached since the prison college program launched two years ago.
Local News
Warm Springs Marks Juneteenth with Tribal Closures, Employee Carnival, and a Treaty Day BBQ on the Horizon
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs observed Juneteenth on June 19 with a day of employee appreciation, cultural activities for youth, and community events, with a Treaty Day BBQ and Fourth of July celebration already in the works.
Local News
Two St. Charles Madras Nurses Honored with International DAISY Award
Will Bean and Jennifer Johnson, both longtime nurses at St. Charles Madras, were among eight St. Charles Health System nurses recognized this spring with the internationally prestigious DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.
Local News
Deer Ridge Inmates Donate $1,200 to Madras Community Food Pantry
The Positive Action Club at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution raised $1,200 through a sandwich fundraiser and personal contributions, donating the full amount to the Madras Community Food Pantry.
Local News
Juneteenth 2026: A Federal Holiday, a History Worth Knowing, and Celebrations Across Oregon
Today, June 19th, is Juneteenth — a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in America. Government offices and some businesses are closed. Oregon communities are marking the day with events, and the Warm Springs Tribe is hosting an Employee Appreciation Carnival.
Local News
Warm Springs Higher Education Scholarship Deadline Is June 30 — Don't Miss It
Warm Springs tribal members planning to attend college, vocational school, or job training programs this fall have until June 30 to apply for tribal financial assistance through the CTWS Higher Education Department.
Local News
$42 Million Highway 97 Reconstruction Project Launching in Downtown Madras This Summer
A massive $42 million ODOT construction project will reshape Highway 97 through the heart of Madras beginning this summer, with work continuing through spring 2028. New sidewalks, ADA ramps, signal upgrades, repaving, and improved stormwater drainage are all on the agenda.
Local News
Warm Springs Mourns Chief Rafael Queahpama, Newly Installed Tribal Leader Dies Days After Taking Seat
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are grieving the sudden loss of Chief Rafael Queahpama, who had only recently been sworn in to the Tribal Council's lifetime chief seat. Funeral services began Wednesday at the Simnasho Longhouse.
Local News
Historic First: COCC Graduates Nine Students from Deer Ridge Correctional Institution
Central Oregon Community College awarded associate degrees to nine incarcerated students at Deer Ridge Correctional Institution on June 9 — the first graduating class in the prison education program's two-year history.
Local News
Madras Selects Brenda Fahey as New City Administrator
The Madras City Council has chosen Brenda Fahey, currently assistant city manager in The Dalles, to lead the city through a period of significant transition. Fahey is expected to begin as early as July, pending an employment agreement.
Local News
ODOT Plans Major Highway 97 Overhaul Through Downtown Madras
The Oregon Department of Transportation is set to bring significant improvements to U.S. Highways 97 and 26 through the heart of Madras, including new sidewalks, signal upgrades, ADA ramps, and repaving.
Local News
Juneteenth 2026: Jefferson County and Tribal Offices Observe Holiday Thursday
This Thursday, June 19, is Juneteenth — a federal and Oregon state holiday. Several county, tribal, and state offices will be closed or operating reduced hours. Here's what's open and what's not.