MADRAS, OR -- A year-around event venue is opening in Madras. Andre Jackson owns the new John Brown Event Center at The Spot on South 5th street. "We are working with larger corporations over in the valley such as the Portland Trail Blazers... as their single site in central and eastern Oregon to have their events and activities, to make them feel that we are part of their backyard. We are part of their community."
The JBEC holds about 300 people. It's available for national touring acts, throughout winter, along with private and corporate events. "That's why we are creating an indoor facility... to be able to have activities that individuals and families can enjoy the entire year long." After living in Central Oregon for many years, he knows there are not a lot of entertainment options between November and May, "You either stay home, you go skiing, or you go travel. So, the opportunity to go to a comedy show or experience a concert during the winter time is very, very limited."
The Spot will include upscale dining, a bar, and food trucks. "We're looking to also connect with the Bend community, Prineville, Culver, Redmond. So, they feel that Madras is their backyard, as well," Jackson tells KBND News shuttle buses are planned to run from Bend and Redmond to Madras taking passengers to and from shows.
The first show announcements will come in October with a grand opening planned for November.
