RODEO CLOWN LASSOES BULLIES IN TRI-CITIES SCHOOLS

 When the school bell rings this week, students across Benton and Franklin counties won't just be learning math and science: They'll be discovering how to stand up to bullies from someone who knows how to handle charging bulls for a living. The Benton Franklin Fair and Horse Heaven Round-Up are bringing rodeo clown JJ Harrison back to area schools for his wildly popular "Don't Be a Bull-Y" assemblies, a program that's been turning serious conversations about bullying into unforgettable experiences for more than a decade.

Harrison isn't your average performer in face paint and oversized clothes. The Walla Walla native spent years as a middle school science teacher before trading his classroom for the rodeo arena, and he brings that educator's heart to every assembly. His mission? Help kids become confident, compassionate adults - which happens to align perfectly with the Fair's core values of youth development.

During the high-energy 45-minute assemblies, Harrison tackles tough topics with humor and heart. Students learn to spot the difference between harmless teasing and harmful bullying, understand when to speak up versus tattle, and master the "Stop, Walk and Talk" method for handling bullies like pros.

Over the past ten years, Harrison has reached more than 20,000 students with his anti-bullying message, proving that sometimes the best way to address serious issues is with a smile and a story from the rodeo circuit. The blue ribbon moment? Every student walks away with a free ticket to the 2026 Fair and a voucher to ride the GESA Carousel of Dreams - because learning important life lessons deserves a celebration.

Catch JJ in Action: See Harrison in his element at the 78th Benton Franklin Fair and Horse Heaven Round-Up Rodeo, August 25-29, 2026. But this week, he's bringing the rodeo spirit - minus the bulls - straight to your students.