Terry Jones, President

Terry's life is firmly anchored in Lostine, where he grew up and later attended Eastern Oregon University. He joined the family business, Jones Excavating, after college, where he worked alongside his father, Larry. His deep connection to rodeo began when his daughter, Teah, was part of the Chief Joseph Days court in 1991.

Terry's commitment to rodeo has been unwavering. He became a rodeo committee member and director in 2008. Each winter, he handles rodeo contracts, including those for the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. During Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, he oversees the Harley Tucker Rodeo Arena, ensuring the event's success.

Terry's legacy is a testament to his dedication to rodeo and his community.

Term: 2023-2026

Duties: Arena, contract personnel, national sponsors, grand entry, awards, insurance, hay/livestock, circuit representative, and Harley Tucker Series award.

Steve Rogers,

Vice President

Steve Rogers found his way to Wallowa County in 1995, starting his career as a Deputy Sheriff. But it didn't take long for the rodeo spirit to captivate him. Drafted to volunteer at the rodeo, Steve's journey with Chief Joseph Days began.

Over the years, he's donned various hats, serving as a director and even taking on the role of chairman when his Sheriff, Fred Steen, was in charge. Steve's dedication extends to the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo, where he collaborates with veterinarians, medical staff, and security to ensure a safe and successful event.

This rodeo enthusiast served as Wallowa County Sheriff from 2012 to 2020, showcasing his commitment to both his community and the rodeo legacy.

Term: 2022-2025

Duties: EMTs and Ambulance, Veterinarians, sanitation, work parties, Bucking Horse Stampede, Hall of Fame, Cowboy Church Service, and added money sponsors.

Rusty Eschler

Rusty's journey to Wallowa County is rooted in family traditions and an enduring love for this beautiful place. He graduated from Joseph High School in 1979, attended Mt. Hood Community College, and worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Columbia Gorge. Rusty's rodeo adventure began in 1995, inspired by his mother's role as the rodeo committee's secretary. Today, he plays a vital role in overseeing the Thunder Room, scholarships, and the Back Country Bash. It's a family affair, with his son, Randall, his daughter, Robin, and his wife, Rene', all dedicated volunteers during Chief Joseph Days.

Term: 2023-2026

Duties: Royalty Court & chaperone, Past Court, Queen’s Luncheon, Family Night, Wallowa County Student Scholarships, Thunder Room and sponsors, alcohol and sponsors.

Mike Warner

Mike and his family became cherished members of the Wallowa Valley community when he took on the role of postmaster at the Joseph post office in 1993. The very next year, he embarked on his Chief Joseph Days journey, offering his unwavering support. From then on, he's donned various hats as a committee chair and director. Mike's dedication even extended to serving as the chamber president in 1997 and 1998. Rodeo life became a family affair, with his sons learning the ropes during summers at the rodeo grounds, and his wife, Kathy, joining in the volunteering spirit

Term:2022-2025

Duties: Water and sponsors, arena grooming, grounds, Wildhorse Resort & Casino, grand marshal, mutton busting, hay/livestock, hat sponsor, event sponsors & permanent signs, and campground.

Hadley Hawkins

Hadley Hawkins, born in eastern Oregon, grew up spending time on the Hawkins family cattle ranch, fostering a love for rodeo from an early age influenced by rodeo competitors in the family. Hadley moved to Wallowa County in 1990, regularly attending Chief Joseph Days and met his future wife, ShanRae Hook, in the north grandstands during a rodeo. Beyond the arena, Hadley served as a U.S. Forest Service wildland firefighter, volunteered in the Enterprise Fire Department, and later retired as a Special Agent. He currently owns a company training law enforcement agencies and military around the world. He and ShanRae take great pride in raising their two sons, Grayson and Brogan, in Wallowa County.

Director Duties: Security, Grants, All Around Awards & Sponsors

Jake Thompson

Hailing from Enterprise, Jake has always had a strong bond with the local community. After graduating high school, he ventured to Walla Walla, Washington, for college. However, the call of home was undeniable, and he returned to Enterprise after completing his degree. His journey led him to the city of Joseph, where he dedicated seven years of hard work. Currently, Jake shines as the project manager for Wallowa Lake Service District. When he's not busy managing projects, you can find him sharing outdoor adventures with his wife, Chelsi, and their son, Jace. Jake is also passionate about coaching basketball at Joseph Charter School, nurturing young talent. A committed volunteer, he's been an invaluable part of Chief Joseph Days Rodeo since 2008, assuming a director role in 2019. His unwavering dedication exemplifies the true spirit of community.

Term: 2023-2026

Duties: Beer gradens, VIP Rooms, Safe & Sober Bus, chute gate sponsors & signs, arena signs & banners, alcohol/whiskey & sponsors, and arena gate sponsors.

JD Clay

More about JD Coming Soon!

Term: 2023-2024

Duties: Tickets, IT & IT equipment, non-profit concessions, construction, long-term planning, and Native American Encampment

Levi Tickner

Levi Tickner moved to Wallowa County in 2019 to become the Public Works Supervisor for the City of Joseph. He brought along his wife, Miranda Tickner, who joined the CJD team in 2021, as well as their horses and dogs. Together, they're all about the outdoors – hunting, packing, adventuring, and rodeo are their jam.

Although Levi isn't originally from Wallowa County, his heart has always been in the rodeo scene. He has competed in Wild Horse Racing and worked with stock contractors. When Miranda became involved with the Tuckerettes in 2019, Levi eagerly volunteered for CJD. Now, he's excited to step into his new role as a director, aiming to honor tradition while bringing fresh ideas to the mix. Levi Tickner is ready to keep the spirit of the West alive and thriving in Wallowa County.

Duties: Rodeo Grounds Vendors, Main Street Flags, Parking, Meet & Greet BBQ, Parades and Sponsors, and the Tuckerettes.

Sara Tippet

Sara's roots run deep in Wallowa County. Having grown up in the heart of Enterprise, she attended Enterprise High School and later pursued her education in Walla Walla. Upon obtaining her degree, Sara decided to return to her cherished hometown.

Currently, she's an invaluable asset to the community as the branch manager at Community Bank. Her commitment extends beyond her role as she's been deeply involved with Chief Joseph Days. Notably, she graced the CJD court in 2006, igniting her passion for giving back.

In her free time, Sara finds solace in the embrace of family and friends. Her dedication to Wallowa County embodies the spirit of a true local loyalist.

Term: 2020-2023

Duties: souvenirs, marketing coordinator, hospitality room and sponsors, rentals, stagecoach, office, volunteer shirts & hats, annual Christmas Party, Tuesday Kickoff Dinner, and coronation.

J.J. Jones

More about JJ coming soon!

Duties: Mobile Equipment, Ranch Rodeo, Cowboy Breakfast, Sound/Scoreboard, Buckaroo Rodeo, and Autograph Booth.

Teah Jones

Wallowa County has always been home to Teah, who's deeply rooted in this charming community. After her high school graduation at Wallowa High School, Teah embarked on an educational journey. She attained her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the University of Idaho.

But where does her heart truly lie? Right here in the heart of Wallowa County. For the past 23 years, she's been a dedicated English teacher at Enterprise High School, shaping the minds of countless students with her wisdom and passion.

Teah's connection with Chief Joseph Days runs deep; in 1991, she graced the CJD court as a court member. Her enthusiasm for rodeo also led her to serve as Miss Rodeo Oregon in 1997, where she even earned the prestigious title of the first runner-up at the Miss Rodeo America contest.

For the last decade, Teah has served as the "stylist" for the CJD court, ensuring they always look their best. She's also led the Tuckerettes, a role she has cherished.

In her rare moments of free time, Teah revels in raising her three spirited teenagers - Trace, Tegan, and Tylee. The family's love extends to their many farm animals, and Teah's been known to spend time at Ember's Brewhouse.

Term: 2021-2024

Duties: Royalty sponsors, official poster, CJD Rodeo program, National Anthem Singers, Director Shirts, TETWP and sponsors, Sponsor Flags, and Boar’s nest.

Committee Chairs