Splash Park Fundraiser

The idea of a splash park in Madras has been nothing more than a dream since 2004. Now thanks to generous donations from Keith Manufacturing, the Madras Redevelopment Foundation, and the Bean Foundation, that dream is becoming a reality. To assist with raising the rest of the needed funds, students from Madras COCC have partnered with the City of Madras as part of a service learning project. They hosted a fundraiser at the Madras Bowling Alley on February 24, charging $20 per person, with half the funds to be donated to the project.

“We’re here to raise awareness and money for the splash park,” said COCC student Savannah Booth of Madras. “And to get a good grade on our test,” she added with a laugh. “It gives us real-world experience, a little outside of our comfort zone, but it’s been good.”

Even though the score-keeping computers weren’t working, the people who braved the snow and came out to support the project had a great time bowling and catching up with friends.

The splash park will be built in Sahalee Park near the playground equipment and is projected to be complete by summer 2019.

Free Exercise Class

Judie Lavender began her own fitness journey in 2011, when her first grandchild was born. She got on the scale and cried when she saw how overweight she had become. Determined not to be a couch-grandparent, she used Beachbody and lost 49 pounds. Knowing that many people in Madras can’t afford a gym membership or expensive programs, she decided to offer free exercise classes to encourage others like herself to be more active. Lavender uses a variety of exercise styles to keep things interesting, including Focus T25, 21-Day Fix, cardio, full-body workouts, and yoga.

“If people moved more often, they’d be healthier,” Lavender said. “We all struggle in life when it comes to health and wellness, and if I can set an example and offer the tools and knowledge to help others, I feel I am giving back in addition to being the change I want to see in the world.” The hour-long classes are held at the library annex building Monday through Friday at 5 am, and anyone is welcome to join. Jefferson County Library Rodriguez Annex, 134 SE E St, Madras

Ladies Night Out

For a fun event to enjoy with a friend or two, there’s Ladies Shopping Night Out on April 4. Wild Bleu in Madras is hosting the event, one that co-owners Rebecca Keegan and Jennifer Schaffner plan to hold on a monthly basis.

“Our first event like this was February 7, and we had a great turnout, about 70 people,” Keegan said. “The vendors are local artists—we didn’t want it to feel commercialized but more handcrafted.” The event runs from 6 to 9 pm and will feature local artisans selling handmade items like soap and candles as well as vendors offering henna tattoos, a photo booth, and take-home craft projects like bath bombs and photo frames. Women are invited to browse, hang out, make a craft or two, and enjoy a beverage with friends. Wild Bleu, 225 SE 5th St, Madras •