Miss Rodeo America signing autographs Aug. 25

The Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo will play host to the Wrangler Champions Challenge on Aug. 25. In addition to dozens of top cowboys and barrel racers, the event also will feature Miss Rodeo America Lauren Heaton and Miss Rodeo Washington Katherine Merck.

“We are excited to have them here,” said Lori Lancaster, fair executive director. “It has been a long time since we’ve had Miss Rodeo America here. This night has a lot of bells and whistles.”

Heaton, a native of Alva, Okla., is a 2013 graduate of Oklahoma State University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising, with minors in business and marketing.

Merck of Spokane is attending Gonzaga law school.

Heaton, Merck and all the rodeo competitors will be available for autographs and photos after the event.

This story was originally published August 22, 2015 at 7:54 PM with the headline "Miss Rodeo America signing autographs Aug. 25."