February is the shortest month of the year, yet it is deep in meaning and recognition. This month we take time to recognize Black History Month and the significant affect African Americans have had on our lives. Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to reflect upon the impact and numerous contributions of African Americans. From science and technology to literature and entertainment, we not only experience the works and creations of influential African Americans, but we also enjoy many of the rights and freedoms we take for granted today. In fact, the creativity and accomplishments of one local legend sparked what we know today as steer wrestling.

Growing up on a ranch, Taylor native Bill Pickett worked around animals his entire life. He used his skills not just for entertainment, but also for education as he believed the lessons learned on a ranch can last a lifetime. His successful career was spent educating and entertaining which eventually led to his induction as the first black honoree to the National Cowboy Hall of Fame in 1971. In addition, Pickett was featured by the United States Postal Service in 1994 in their “Legends of the West” stamp series. Pickett’s career highlights that success can come in many different ways, but his truly pioneering ways were innovative and can still be seen at rodeos today.

Bill Pickett is just one example of someone who worked to build a bond between different cultures so that each one would be stronger. Pioneers such as Barbara Jordan, Texas’ second black state senator and first black woman from a Southern state to serve in Congress, blazed a trail through our nation’s past. If not for her and the dedication of countless others, we might not have ever had an African American Supreme Court Justice or President of the Untied States

The City of Round Rock and the Round Rock Public Library are hosting several Black History Month events including a month long photography exhibit highlighting the first African American City Councilman in Round Rock, Garfield McConico. For more information on local events, please visit: http://mytinyurl.net/BlackHistoryMonth.

In addition, I am looking forward to attending and participating in the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year. This event is unique because it not only highlights African Americans, but it provides families with a place to learn more about some of the community-based services which are at their disposal. For more information about the programs and booths that will be participating in this exceptional event, visit www.integralcare.org.

Black History Month celebrates one of the many unique cultures that provide the foundation for our community fabric. I encourage everyone to take a moment to learn something new or reflect upon something historical, that has helped to shape the world in which we live. The spirit in which Black History Month is celebrated is one of appreciation we must continue to ensure these important figures and accomplishments are not forgotten by future generations.