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Local News

Warm Springs Tribe Speaks Out After Chemical Spill Reaches Columbia River

Tribal Chairman Dennis White III issued a statement urging sustained attention to the health of the Columbia River following a 900,000-gallon ‘white liquor’ spill from a Longview, Washington paper mill.

Warm Springs WIC Secures Farm Direct Grant; Fresh Produce Vouchers Now Available for Eligible Families

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs WIC program has secured a Farm Direct grant that provides $28 in produce vouchers to over 100 eligible participants. The vouchers, available through November 30, can be used at participating farmers markets and farm stands.

Madras Names Three Finalists for City Administrator; Public Meet-and-Greet Set for Wednesday at Initiative Brewing

The City of Madras has identified three finalists to replace departed City Administrator Will Ibershof: Brenda Fahey, Maurice Henderson II, and Jody Yates. Residents can meet the candidates this Wednesday at Initiative Brewing before final interviews Thursday at City Hall.

Camp Sherman Fire District Levy Passes; Jefferson County Library Measure on the Ballot

Voters in the Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District approved a levy to fund fire, EMS, and wildfire preparedness staffing by a nearly 2-to-1 margin in the May primary. Jefferson County Library District voters also weighed in on a general obligation measure.

Mayor Lepin Won't Seek Re-Election as Madras City Hall Faces Leadership Vacuum

Mayor Mike Lepin announced he will not seek re-election when his term ends in December, opening the door for a new mayor at a moment when the city is simultaneously searching for a permanent city administrator, police chief, and finance director.

Warm Springs Tribal Chairman: Columbia River Must Be Protected After Longview Mill Disaster

Tribal Chairman Dennis White III issued a formal statement demanding full transparency and environmental accountability following a catastrophic industrial explosion at a Longview, Washington paper mill that sent hundreds of thousands of gallons of toxic 'white liquor' into the Columbia River system, killing 11 workers.

Plateau Travel Plaza Reopening Soon — Warm Springs Artisans Invited to Display Cultural Items

Indian Head Casino and the Plateau Travel Plaza are seeking proposals from Warm Springs tribal artists, craftspeople, and families to display arts, crafts, and culturally significant keepsakes for a 3-to-6 month showcase as the plaza prepares to reopen.

Warm Springs Launches STRONG Youth Wellness Program to Fight Diabetes, Build Community Leaders

Warm Springs Diabetes Prevention has launched a new initiative called Warm Springs STRONG, a youth wellness program combining fitness, mentorship, and health education. High school athletes are invited to participate as coaches and mentors.

Jefferson County Schools Celebrate Class of 2026 This Weekend

Graduation season is here for Jefferson County School District 509J. Bridges High School holds its ceremony Friday evening, and Madras High School follows Saturday morning. Warm Springs K-8 also celebrates its 8th grade class on Friday.

TODAY: Great Madras Community Dine-Out Raises Funds for Struggling Food Pantry

The fourth annual Great Madras Community Dine-Out is happening all day today, June 4. More than 30 restaurants across Madras, Metolius, Culver, and Terrebonne are participating, with a portion of the extra business going back to the Madras Community Food Pantry — which is facing a 21% drop in food supply.

Warm Springs STRONG Launches Youth Wellness Program, Seeks High School Mentors

Warm Springs Diabetes Prevention has launched Warm Springs STRONG, a new youth wellness initiative using team challenges, health education, and mentorship to build healthy habits and prevent diabetes. The program is also seeking high school athletes to step up as mentors and coaches.

Warm Springs WIC Program Launches Farm Direct Vouchers for Fresh Local Produce

Starting June 1, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs WIC program began issuing $28 Farm Direct vouchers to eligible participants, redeemable at local produce stands and farmers markets including Paradise Produce and Martin's Produce in Madras. WIC staff will be at the Thursday Market starting June 18.