Saturday, May 16 is a busy day across Jefferson County. Here’s a rundown of what’s happening this weekend.

COCC Salmon Bake — TODAY, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Central Oregon Community College Madras campus is hosting its annual Salmon Bake from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the COCC Madras campus. The event is a community tradition and a chance to enjoy great food while celebrating the college’s deep roots in Jefferson County. The campus recently completed a major $22 million expansion and is celebrating 76 years of serving the Madras community. Come out, enjoy the salmon, and see the new facilities.

Boat Safety Inspection — TODAY, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is holding a free boat safety inspection at Madras Marine from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today. Bring your vessel, boat registration, and boater education card. With Lake Billy Chinook season getting underway, now is the time to make sure your boat meets Oregon safety requirements before you’re out on the water.

Nature Kids: Pollinator Power — TODAY, 10:30 a.m. to Noon

Families with young children can take part in a Nature Kids program focused on pollinators at Sahalee Park from 10:30 a.m. to noon today. The program gives kids a hands-on introduction to the bees, butterflies, and other pollinators that are essential to Central Oregon’s agricultural and natural ecosystems. This is a free, family-friendly outdoor event.

Primary Election Ballots Due Tuesday

With the weekend comes a reminder: May 19 primary election ballots are due by 8 p.m. Tuesday. If you haven’t voted yet, the Jefferson County Clerk’s Office drop box at 66 SE D Street in Madras will be available through Election Day. See our full election preview for details on all the local races, including the contested sheriff’s race and two competitive commissioner contests.

More This Week

  • ODOT Open House on Highway 97 Madras renovations — Wednesday, May 27. Mark your calendar.
  • Wells Fargo Madras closure — June 24. If you bank there, now is the time to plan.
  • Crooked River Ranch Board applications due May 29 for those interested in serving on the Ranch’s board of directors.

Have an event you’d like listed in the Madras Bulletin? Email us at news@madrasbulletin.com.