True love is a very rare gift, and I know you are the love of my life. Our journey together was amazing with many adventures, starting with the day we met. On January 7, 1985, when I was at the lowest point in my life after losing my mother, God introduced you to me, though the antics of your friend, Moses Brewer. I laugh because I still remember when Moses introduced himself and then asked, “Don’t you know Lu Vason?” I responded, “What is a Lu Vason?” Moses was shocked and proceeded to educate me all about you. What he didn’t tell me was that you were a ladies man. Needless to say, that did not last long! Early in our relationship, you introduced me to some of your closest friends. They were extremely friendly but made it clear they thought I wouldn’t be with you for very long. For instance, September Brown said to me, “Girl, you will not last more than 30 days!” while sweet Glenda Barry said to you, “Do I need to remember her name?” Eugene Dewitt even asked me, “Honey, do you know what you are getting yourself into?” Those comments were enough for me to ask myself, “What have I gotten myself into?” I tried to walk away but your charm and incredible smile wouldn’t allow me, and over time we became
inseparable. According to the grandkids, “you put the Lucious on me!” We often laughed at how opposite we were. Back then I was quiet and shy but organized, while you were larger than life and surrounded by stacks of paper with your creative notes on fifty million little pieces of paper. I was always amazed that you knew where everything was and more surprised at how annoyed you got after I moved your stacks around. Over the years we learned to adapt to each other. We learned to compromise, but we still drove each other crazy. Our love became stronger than anything and everything. I am so thankful for all you taught me and the many experiences you introduced to me. I knew nothing about a rodeo or any of the details that went into making an event successful. You gently taught me, but would run out of patience when I did not have the same enthusiasm as you. Boy, did I learn quickly about your passion and commitment to anything you did! It was quite enlightening to learn what made you tick and why. At times, I thought your blood was black because you never had any understanding why people didn’t know Black history. Everything was black. I will never forget when you sent me black roses! I thought it was some kind of prank at first, but when I got the second delivery of black roses, I was over it. I didn’t want to hurt your feelings, but I knew I had to let you know that I was not a fan of the black roses before I got another delivery. You took it better than I thought. What an incredible life you gave me. We traveled to many places and did a lot of silly and fun things. I remember our experiences in Japan, Hawaii, Korea, Mexico, Bermuda, St. Thomas, New York, California and every other state with the exception of the four we never got to. I remember our trip to Houston, when we went shopping at the Houston Galleria. You decided to buy two suits at what I considered were ridiculous prices. I was well aware that you were trying to impress me. In my mind, I was thinking about how to get you to value money or more appropriately, manage it. Well, it took a lot of fussing
to make sure we wouldn’t end up ‘in the poor house!” I often heard you tell your friends how much you appreciated me and it confirmed what I felt in my heart. You didn’t have any insecurities or questions about who you were or allowing me to be your helper. You were never afraid of anything and always had a steely determination to be successful no matter what. You were a creative spirit and would never let anyone discourage you. That being said, what man would plan a wedding in another country, fly my family and friends in and never tell me anything about
it? Yes, it was bold, but a move that made me love you even more. I was proud to become your wife and share every part of your life. I love your kids as if they are mine. I loved the fact that so many others loved and respected us enough to call us Mom and Dad and felt love and safety in our home. The last eighteen months were a true testament of our love and commitment. I was sad that you were not feeling well. But we took comfort in knowing we were there for each other in sickness and health because love never fails. We were able to strengthen our already strong bond and share our innermost thoughts with each other. Thank you for staying as long as you did. Thank you for loving, teaching, guiding and trusting me with your heart. You demonstrated your trust, commitment and confidence in me by having me take the lead in all of your businesses, especially the rodeo. You taught me so much and I will truly miss you. Our hearts will always be connected and I will work hard to sustain your legacy. I love you and am very glad you are in a peaceful place. Don’t think you have escaped me because I will be talking to you daily and maybe even fussing with you at times.
My heart is always yours. Love you forever. Valeria
It is with deep sadness that I am writing this on behalf of my husband, Lu Vason, who departed this life on May 17, 2015. My husband had a dream of creating an African American Rodeo circuit to educate and entertain communities across the United States. Lu’s dream was born out of the fact that many of our history books left out the involvement of African Americans in the development of the West. In addition, there were no other venues or media outlets recognizing our African American cowboys and cowgirls or telling their stories. Because of Lu’s dream, and the legacy that he has left, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is now in its 31st year educating and entertaining audiences both internationally and nationally. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo has maintained the basis of its originality without compromising its purpose. My husband was committed to telling the story of Blacks in the West and our rich contributions to rodeo, while creating a platform and legacy that will thrive as we move forward. I think we can all say his efforts built the foundations for our next generations to build upon. I know that I will never be able to step into his shoes, but over the years he has prepared me to lead the organization to the next level. I am making a commitment to each of you to work hard as we continue his dream and legacy. As we take that next step, it will require the continued support of our sponsors, rodeo fans and our incredible staff. Over the last 31 years, we have received unbelievable support from various sponsors, the many rodeo fans in each city, a formidable rodeo staff, and a loving family. For all the years of support, I say thank you with much love and appreciation. Knowing the road in front of me will be lonely and challenging without my husband physically at my side, I am stepping out on faith and believing in God. With Lu’s spiritual direction and your unrelenting support, I know we will continue telling the story of African American cowboys and cowgirls. On behalf of Lu and myself and the entire rodeo family, thank you again for giving us a reason to tell the story. Let’s rodeo!
Valeria Howard-Vason Acting CEO Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo
Urban cowboy lover of legend John Wayne stuck here in L.A. with visions of fortune and fame
At the Bill Pickett rodeo, at the Bill Pickett rodeo
Sang at rodeo for my cowboy friends and now I’m hooked on this thang called rodeo and it’s calling back again
Even tho our history books have never been correct who knew the children and cowboys that it would affect
Chorus So now it’s up and down the road eating burgers when their cold blasting country music on the radio And if my baby’s is around Im the fastest roper in town that’s all part of the show
Bridge
Rough riders and western legends are one in the same when they heard Bill’s story they put him the cowboy hall of fame Chorus
At the Bill Pickett rodeo, at the Bill Pickett rodeo
Well now it’s up and down the road eating burgers when their cold blasting country music on the radio
So the story goes bout a black man name Bill, what we called danger and life threatening he called a thrill
And if my baby’s is around Im the fastest roper in town that’s all part of the show
He threw a steer with his teeth by the nose and now they call it bulldogging and my favorite part of the show
At the Bill Pickett rodeo, at the Bill Pickett rodeo, at the Bill Pickett rodeo
Chorus So now it’s up and down the road eating burgers when their cold blasting country music on the radio And if my baby’s is around Im the fastest roper in town that’s all part of the show
Written, produced and sung by Howard Johnson
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“Every Great Thing Starts With A Dream” Renaissance Man, Visionary Genius, Publisher, Mentor & “FRIEND” It would be difficult for most to handle one, maybe two of these attributes , yet Lu Vason demonstrated these qualities daily and even managed tomake them appear as Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) For 76 years of life, 31 years of producing The Greatest Show On Dirt”, close to 500 performances, thousands of rodeo spectators, and providing a national platform for African American Families, Cowboys/Cowgirls, the opportunity to honor our omitted history while creating “New History” My friend, mentor, and “Dreamer will be missedmore than these few lines can convey. Be cause of you we as a people will not experience the Proverb: “ Were There Is No Vision, The People Parish” Geoff Douval Thanks Dad for everything you taught me. I have always said I couldn’t have gotten this type of education and experience with a college degree. It was truly hands on. I pledged to continue educating about the black cowboys and cowgirls. A promise on my bucket list that is being checked offevery day I live. Love your Texas Daughter/Lil Girl Acynthia Villery
Lu became a mentor, father and trusted friend over the past 20 years. I will miss our talks, his laugh and smile, but most of all being in his presence. He taught me so many things and helped to shape who I am today and the things that mean so very much to me. I will honor him by continuing his legacy and to always promote, uplift, and tell the stories that project positive images of African Americans for the rest of my life. In Loving Memory Always, Your Little Girl & BPIR Daughter Margo Wade LaDrew
There are so few people that leave an inpact on this world through the life they live and through the legacy they leave after death. • The spirit of Lu Vason and his vision lives on through many. • You are loved and missed dearly. • Your legacy lives on. • Bill Pickett Cowgirl for Life. Ronni
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My Dad always encouraged me to “go for it”. He believed in me and empowered me, first as the Co-Coordinator and later as his personal Assistant to the Producer, he gave me the latitude to make decisions that were in the best interest of the Rodeo. He would say “you can do it”, that it takes courage to stay positive and motivated when things get difficult and that it would be easier to give into the fear and negativity. But stay Positive! He would also say to me “don’t limit yourself”. People limit themselves to what they think they can do but you can go as far as your mind allows you. You can “Achieve what you believe”. Dad was a man of great character and I admired him immensely. He encouraged and pushed me to learn, develop and ultimately excel in the Promotion business. Lastly he was my Dad and Grandfather/G-PA to my children! I loved him and I will always be thankful for the opportunity he gave me to learn and grow within the family business. And Dad we the Vason family promise to continue what you built, sustain the standards you expect and the lasting Legacy that is you! Love your, Daughter Sheri! Lu called me many times to be the Memphis co-ordinator for the rodeo. I had done a rodeo previously with a man that had poor business ethics. I told Lu I would never do another rodeo. He wouldn’t take no for an answer and told me “yes you can, you can do this!” He instilled the confidence in me to have many successful rodeos,even pulling in over 7,000 students several times. This confidence has given me the boost I need to build this rodeo back up again to where it was. Lu will never leave me and the drive for excellence that he instilled in me. MS. KITTY
Lu was like the uncles that helped raise me and my siblings as well as the other black youth in the neighborhood. They were strong men who understood that their entrepreneurial visions and ideas would also have a positive impact on their community. When we lose black men like Lu and our Uncles, we have lost more than legends, elders and family members, but literally we have lost important educators, mentors and protectors of our culture and continually striving black communities. Gregory Freeman
Lu Vason was the type of person who understood the value of being a leader and always sought a way to give back whenever possible. Lu wasn’t just a dreamer, but a dream maker for others and consistently made an effort to assist others in making their dreams come true right along with his own successes! Montague
• Preserving the heritage of African Americans in the west. • Honoring African American’s place in the West by continuing • •
the heritage of Bill Pickett and Black Rodeos. Promoting Black Cowboys and Cowgirls throughout this country. Inspire current and future generations by promoting positive images of African Americans globally.
• Providing scholarships to deserving students.
The Bill Pickett Memorial Scholarship Fund (“BPMSF”) is committed to enriching and enhancing the lives of African Americans and the heritage that African Americans contributed to the west. We will fulfill our mission by:
The Bill Pickett Memorial Scholarship Fund (BPMSF) a non-profit 501C3 that strongly supports education and benefits youth each year by providing scholarships to Black high school and college students involved or interested in pursuing careers in Rodeo or animal Science. This special scholarship is awarded based on academic standing, determination, student needs, community involvement and professional recommendations. You can support the scholarship fund with your tax deductible contribution by visiting our website, billpickettrodeo.com.
The Rodeo For Kidz Sake offers an exciting field trip opportunity with a lot of fascination and excitement for students on Friday morning. The Rodeo for Kids Sake (RFKS) is a special performance for elementary and middle school aged children who thirst for reality-style interaction with our nation’s cowboys and cowgirls and are entertained and educated by the Rodeo for Kidz Sake. The RFKS promises to be a morning of educational experience focusing on the history of the Black Cowboys and Cowgirls of the American West that is so often left out of the history books. The RFKS educates our kids and leaves unforgettable impressions.
I want to be a cowboy. And not a cowboy in the sense of the word, But a Cowboy in all of its truth. A man who’s bravery is the pride of a people. I wish to be like the silent conductors of thee “Rail Roads” forgotten, I desire to create legacies emulated by all after I have had my last dance. I want to be a cowboy. Because when the sun kisses the horizon of tomorrow’s dreams, I want to ride off into the sunset as did the forgotten Picketts. I yearn to be like the forgotten Men who were overlooked in the texts of “our” American Hisstory, The Men omitted from the literature of this “land of the unfree and home of the enslaved”, Yet in still, I want to be like the Men that gave breath to what all men want to be dubbed; a Cowboy. I want to be the molders of this land’s history, I endeavor to be a participant in the rebuilding of our Rosewoods; our Black Wall Streets, I want to be a Cowboy. And if the Lord shall smile upon me and find me on my horse one day, I will say thank you not in words, But in my pride as a Black Cowboy in todays account. And if this is my story to be told, All I should ask as a Cowboy when I have taken my last ride, Is to be left in my weathered and worn boots. Not in a new pair that my life is unfamiliar with, But in the ones that holds my soul in their sole, In the ones I walked the journey of my ancestors, In the ones that little cowboys and cowgirls admired. Bring me in the pair that the Lord made with all his love for the Black Men that made the West home, The Black Men that broke the untamed spirit of the wild, The true Cowboys. The Men that before me paved the unpaved roads of the plains, I tilt my hat unto thee. So in solitude I remember those that taught me the life I have come to embrace, And with every ride my soul says thank you for your contributions to my existence. And to the Legends of our known, We pay homage to you. To Enerst Deville, I say, I want to be a Cowboy. To John Bassett, I say, I want to be a Cowboy. To Alfred Pete, I say, want to be a Cowboy. To James Lightfoot, I say, I want to be a Cowboy. To Murry J. Frank, I say, I want to be a Cowboy. And to Roy Deville, I say, I want to be a Cowboy. I want to be a Cowboy. I want to be a Cowboy. AMEN.
The grave is marked with a sandstone tombstone that reads: “Bill Pickett-C.S.C.P.A.” The letters stand for Cherokee Strip Cow Punchers Association. Pickett, a black man who has been given credit for “inventing”bull dogging, died in the spring of 1932 after an altercation with a bronc in a 101 Ranch corral. He was 62. Pickett worked for the Millers for most of his adult life. But his remarkable story begins not in Oklahoma but in south central Texas near Taylor, Williamson County. His ancestors were of mixed “Negro, Caucasian and Cherokee Indian blood,” according to Colonel Bailey C. Hanes, “a not uncommon blend [in the 1800’s] in the upper south.” In his book, Bill Pickett, Bulldogger (University of Oklahoma Press, Norman, 1977), Hanes concludes that in 1880 “Thomas Jefferson Pickett was born in Louisiana and was 26 years old. Thomas Jefferson Pickett was Bill Pickett’s father. He and Bill’s mother, Mary, produced thirteen children. Five of the boys, including Bill, may have been the first black entrepreneurs in Taylor, where they operated a business called “Pickett Bros. Bronco Busters and Rough Riders Ass’n.” Thomas Jefferson Pickett was Bill Pickett’s father. He and Bill’s mother, Mary, produced thirteen children. Five of the boys, including Bill, may have been the first black entrepreneurs in Taylor, where they operated a business called “Pickett Bros. Bronco Busters and Rough Riders Ass’n.” Bill was born in 1870, five years after the Civil War ended and the slaves of the Confederacy were emancipated. By the time he was 16, he was became interested in horses, cattle and dogs. Not many writers emphasize the influence cattle dogs had on the young man, but, if it were not for these dogs, he might never have been the famous bite ‘em style bulldogger he was. There were “heel” dogs and “catch” dogs. The latter went to a critter’s head, while the former harassed the heels. Cowboys used these cattle dogs because it was next to impossible to swing ropes, or make cow catches in the thick tangles of brush that covered much of Williamson County. Exactly where Bill Pickett first grabbed a steer’s lip with his teeth (like the dogs did it) is not known. You hear stories that he did it in the brush, on the range, in a holding pen. But wherever he did it, he was the first to do it and the first to be promoted in a specialty act. In talking to old-timers, much of the fanciful element is reduced. They figure that Pickett went down the back of a cow brute, stopped it, then bit into the lip
or nose and just fell away, dropping the steer by twisting its neck and assisted by the use of leverage. But an “eyewitness account” in the Tulsa World, Oct. It, 1931, described his fear in “shows” (there were no rodeos in those days) like this: “The steer plunged into the arena ... Pickett’s horse plunged full speed after it, and he leaped from the saddle. He turned a complete somersault along the length of the steer’s back, flying out and down over the curved horns... to fasten his teeth in the side of the steer’s mouth. With sheer strength he dragged the running behemoth’s head to the tan-bark, thrust its horn in the ground, and its forward momentum threw the steer hocks over horns in a somersault of its own.” Mrs. William Paxton Irvine once confirmed that “Bill Pickett was riding with my father, Lee Moore, near Thoundale, Texas, in the late 1880’s, They were rounding up cattle and one steer was hard to turn. Bill took after the steer and bulldogged it.” How he did this was not elaborated on, but he must have used the bite-’em style because Moore, who had a theatrical bent, booked Pickett in Texas and other states, describing him as a “bulldogger that did it with his teeth.” His success and notoriety as the “only professional bulldogger in the world” caught the attention of the Miller Brothers whose 101 Ranch Wild West Show was fast becoming the
best such entertainment in the country. In 1905, they hired Pickett and brought him and his entire family from Texas to Oklahoma, housing them at 101 Ranch headquarters at Bliss (now Marland). Of course, Pickett was on the road a lot, billed as “The Dusky Demon” on show flyers. When not on the road he did all sorts of chores on the huge ranch. He picked cotton, maintained fences, built corrals, and broke and gentled horses. He was particularly good with horses, according to his great-great grandson Frank Phillips. “My grandmother, Bessie Pickett Phillips,” said Phillips, “told me a lot about Bill ... how he pretended to be ‘the man of steel’ but how he was really hurting, in later years, following work each day. “I think he was exploited in a way. He was black and yet he was unique in what he did. But then in those days, all black athletes were exploited in one way or another. . especially prize fighters.” Certainly Bill Pickett is one of those colorful characters in the history of Wild West Shows and rodeos. And, therefore, he was inducted into the Rodeo Hall of Fame, Oklahoma City, in 1971 – the first black rodeo athlete to be so honored.
Wrestling a steer requires more than brute strength. The successful steer wrestler, or bulldogger, is strong, to be sure, but he also understands the principles of leverage. The steer wrestler on horseback starts behind a barrier, and begins his chase after the steer has been given a head start. If the bulldogger leaves too soon and breaks the barrier, he receives a 10-second penalty.
The steer wrestler is assisted by a hazer, another cowboy on horseback tasked with keeping the steer running in a straight line. When the bulldogger’s horse pulls even with the steer, he eases down the right side of the horse and reaches for the steer’s horns. After grasping the horns, he digs his heels into the dirt. As the steer slows, the cowboy turns the animal, lifts up on its right horn and
pushes down with his left hand in an effort to tip the steer over. After the catch, the steer wrestler must either bring the steer to a stop or change the direction of the animal’s body before the throw or is disqualified. The clock stops when the steer is on his side with all four legs pointing the same direction.
Bareback Riding is judged according to the performances of both the rider and the bucking horse. It is a singlehandhold, eight-second ride which starts with the cowboy’s feet held in a position over the break of the horse’s shoulders until the horse’s front feet touch the ground first jump out of the chute. The rider earns points maintaining upper body control while moving his feet in a toes-turned-out rhythmic motion in time with the horse’s bucking action.
As the bronc and rider burst from the chute, the rider must have both spurs touching the horse’s shoulders until the horse’s feet hit the ground after the initial move from the chute. This is called “marking out.” If the cowboy fails to do this, he is disqualified. As the bronc bucks, the rider pulls his knees up, rolling his spurs up the horse’s shoulders. As the horse descends, the cowboy straightens his legs, returning his spurs over the point
of the horse’s shoulders in anticipation of the next jump. Making a qualified ride and earning a money-winning score requires more than just strength. A bareback rider is judged on his spurring technique, the degree to which his toes remain turned out while he is spurring and his willingness to take whatever might come during his ride.
Like bronc riding, tie down roping is an event born on the ranches of the Old West. Sick calves were roped and tied down for medical treatment. Today, success in tie down roping depends largely on the teamwork between a cowboy and his horse. After the calf is given a head start, horse and rider give chase. The contestant ropes the calf, then dismounts and runs
to the animal. After catching and flanking the calf, the cowboy ties any three of the animal’s legs together using a “pigging string” he carries in his teeth until needed. If the calf is not standing when the contestant reaches it, the cowboy must allow the animal to stand. When the cowboy completes his tie, he throws his hands in the air as a signal to the judge. He
then remounts and allows the rope to become slack. The run is declared invalid if the calf kicks free within six seconds. As with any timed event, a 10-second penalty is added if the roper does not allow the calf the proper head start – this is known as “breaking the barrier.”
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Lucious “Lu” Augustas Vason was born on April 6, 1939 in New Orleans, Louisiana to his parents Lucious A. Vason, Sr. and Dolly Lucas Vason. Raised in Berkeley, California, he graduated from Berkeley High School and enrolled at Contra Costas College in Richmond, California. He left college to join the Army where his tour took him to Germany. When he returned to California, he started a career as a fashion model in print advertising for different companies. His ads appeared in various newspapers and magazines; e.g., Newsweek and Time Magazine. Vason was one of few African American models in the San Francisco Bay area at that time. He also became an extra in the movie industry with one of his most notable parts being a stand-in for Sidney Poitier in “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.” While modeling, he decided to pursue a career as a hairstylist. He attended Alameda Beauty College and Charms in Alameda, California and became a stylist for various beauty pageants in the San Francisco Bay area. He created hair styles for celebrities like Vonetta McGee, Margaret Avery, Marilyn McCoo and Florence LaRue of the 5th Dimension. He was also the hairstylist for Patricia Harris, the first female Black Ambassador for the United States under President Kennedy, and singer/ actress Lena Horne. Hair styling propelled Lu to begin writing newspaper articles for a small African American newspaper, the Berkeley Post. After interviewing a member from the music group Delites, he was offered an opportunity to enter the entertainment world by becoming their manager. Vason moved on to various
management positions with the Whispers, Natural Four, and the Pointers of Pair who later became the Pointer Sisters. From management, he gradually crossed over to promotions by becoming the lead booking agent for various artists in the Bay area and later became a concert promoter. He partnered with a friend in Denver to promote the P-Funk Tour across the United States. The P-Funk Tour and this friendship led him to settle in Denver permanently where he began working with the renowned promoter, Barry Fey. This chapter in his life led him to promote shows with some of the greatest stars in music, including Prince, Diana Ross, Earth Wind & Fire, Michael Jackson and The O’Jays. In July 1977, he attended Cheyenne Frontier Days, the Granddaddy of Rodeos, with his assistant, Linda Motley. Vason felt the experience was exciting but lacked Black cowboys and cowgirls. His vision to start his own African American Rodeo circuit was realized in 1984 when he founded the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo is the only African American touring rodeo in the United States and throughout the world. The rodeo has traveled to more than 33 cities across the United States and has drawn local and international media attention. Now in its 31st year, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo has touched hundreds of thousands of people—young, old, black and white—all over the world as they share the story of the African American cowboy and cowgirl. In truth, Lu knew that even if the history books never write the story, television never does a documentary, or the movie studios never produce a blockbuster on the big screen, the story of the Black cowboy and cowgirl will have been written in the minds and hearts
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of those who have visited or participated in a Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. In addition to the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, Lu had his own entertainment company, Lu Vason Presents and continued to book concerts, plays and other forms of cultural activities for the community. Lu’s vision to create a jazz festival in the Denver community became a reality in 2013, when he produced the 1st Annual Denver Jazz Fest, featuring Kenny Latimore, Tower of Power, Hiroshima, Brian Culbertson and other jazz groups. In February 2015, Lu introduced Colorado to “OperaJazz,” a fusion of opera and jazz featuring internationally acclaimed mezzo soprano Angela Brown. Lu never allowed barriers to hold him back and has been recognized by various cities and organizations from coast to coast for his contributions to society. He has received such awards as the BM&T APEX Award for Distinguished Service, the 2005-2006 African American Voice Citizen of the Year Award, 2010 Urban Spectrum African Americans Who Make a Difference Award and the Do It Yourself Award. In 2010, Lu was inducted into the Blacks in Colorado Hall of Fame and in 2011, received the MLK Responsibility Award. In 2015, he was awarded the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award. Lu was a pioneer and visionary. He believed that each of us
has an obligation to our brothers, sisters and especially the children to expose and educate them about African American accomplishments, no matter the industry or activity. Lu created Soul Strollin’ – the magazine for black tourists and Denver newcomers. The magazine provided information about where to go to purchase hair products, soul food, entertainment, and places to stay in Denver’s historic “Five Points.” Lu’s commitment to serving the black community was unmatched. When he produced the Miss Black World Pageant, Lu required that contestants be judged not only on their appearance, but also on their level of black consciousness and commitment to serve their community. Lu was a strong advocate for black-owned businesses by utilizing them as ticket venues, limousine companies, and always taking the performers to the black-owned restaurants and radio stations. He prioritized recycling the black dollar and played an important role in helping the black community of Denver thrive.
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Lu was a great friend and mentor. I valued his drive and determination. He possessed a natural ability of unleashing the personal power with those whom interacted with him. Lu modeled this on the numerous occasions when he challenged others, including myself, to try something different and failure was not an option. You have enhanced and impacted my life and I am truly grateful for the amount of time I had with you on this earth. Ken Johnson Director, Business Development & Community Affairs, Lu Vason Presents
Lu Vason exceeded the dictionary’s definition of a friend. Although he was many things to others, to us he was our brother and role model. Lu loved us and we loved him as though we were of the same blood. Lu exemplified success, honesty, loyalty, and professionalism that inspired us to emulate. We love you, Lu. We will miss you but we will always remember you. Gerald and Glynis Albright
Lu Vason was an experimentalist and an example of one who lived with the belief that whatever the mind can conceive, and believe, the mind can achieve. He was the epitome of creativity – always thinking and creating outside the box. He was truly an innovator and never known to give up. Lu Vason touched many lives, including mine, as a mentor and special friend. Rosalind “Bee” Harris Publisher, Denver Urban Spectrum
When you think about Lu Vason, there are many adjectives that come to mind. He could be described as a promoter, mentor, visionary, creative thinker, trailblazer, surrogate parent, advisor and the list goes on. Lu showed us that being a friend wasn’t a big thing but it was a collection of a million small things. Angela and Ken Gilkey My dear, sweet Lu… a wonderful friend, protector and a magnificent human being! The sound of your voice and laugh will be forever etched in my heart and soul. Thank you for your love and patience and for helping me discern what is truly important in this life. I am grateful to you for your unwavering kindness and your listening ear. Lu, your indomitable spirit will live on……I love you! Faye Wilson Tate
Lu was many things to many of the people. To me, he was that young man that I met and mentored 50 years ago in Berkley/Oakland, California. Early on it became clear that he had a regard for knowledge and devotion to purposeful achievement. So let it be known that Lu Vason was a many faceted man that developed into one of the finest we’ve had to offer to the race and the world. I know he loved me. Be it known: I loved him. Louis Freeman Founder of Hue-man Bookstore
Our brother and our friend, thanks for the memories. We all became complacent living the blessed and wonderful life together. We forgot that you were preparing us for the day we’d have to continue to live, as you wanted us to do, without you. You prepared us well! Glenda & Odell Barry
I don’t know how or why you allowed me in your circle, but I’m grateful that you did. I have learned so much from “sitting at your feet” and studying the master at work. You allowed me to witness your creative genius up-close. You taught me what it means to take pride in what I put my name on and to give people more than they expect. I can’t say goodbye, so I’ll just say, “Happy Trails, Cowboy!” Carla Ladd DenverBlackPages.com, MRBES Success Summit
My 44 year friendship with Lu can best be summed up as the intersection of brotherhood, joy, and love. Lu showed a brother how to celebrate each and every day on God’s earth. Thanks you for the love. Landri Taylor
Friends are the fruitcake of life--some nutty, some soaked in alcohol, some sweet--but mix them together and they’re our friends! I’ll miss you always letting me tell my jokes over & over again with you laughing as loud as when you heard it the first time! You are gone but not forgotten. Say hello to BB King and Ben E. King. I know you’re already planning a great concert with them! Moses Brewer
To the delight of thrilled audiences and rodeo fans from across the United States, each year on Martin Luther King JR’s birthday holiday, some of the nation’s most skilled and entertaining Black cowboys and cowgirls ride into Denver, Colorado for the MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions. The MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions occurs during the National Western Stock Show (NWSS). The NWSS is a premier national Stock Show that takes place during the month of January in Denver, Colorado for 16days. The NWSS serves as an entertainment arena, hosting one of the world’s richest regular season professional rodeos, the “Super Bowl” of Livestock Shows, nationally recognized Horse Shows and Colorado’s largest Western Trade. The MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions is one of several signature events at the NWSS each year. The MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions is another creation of Lu Vason, President and founder of The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo. The rodeo was created as a way to give honor to Dr. King for his dreams, accomplishments and his significant work for racial and economic equality. The MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo of Champions will return to Denver, on January 18, 2016 for it’s 9th anniversary celebration as part of the NWSS. We hope you are able to join us as the African American champions of rodeo compete and entertain, while celebrating Dr. Kings’ birthday.
Steer undecorating is the female version of steer wrestling. Rather than dismounting the horse and pulling the steer to the ground, the cowgirl has to gallop up along side the steer and remove the ribbon attached to its back. The event begins with the cowgirl in a starting box secured behind a rope barrier. The cowgirl gives a signal that she is ready and the steer is released from the starting chute. The steer receives a head start
that is determined by the length of the arena. When the steer reaches its advantage point, the barrier is released and the cowbgirl races out after the steer. The cowgirl is allowed a ‘hazer’ to aid her in lining up the charging steer. A hazer is another mounted cowboy that gallops his horse along the right side of the steer and keeps it from veering away from the cowgirl. The hazer is the difference between winning and losing. A brightly
coloured ribbon is attached to the steer’s back and the cowgirl must ride along side the steer, lean down and remove the ribbon. vAs soon as she has the ribbon, she sits up and holds the ribbon aloft to signal her victory to the judge. Steer undecorating is the fastest events in rodeo, with the winning times often being 2-3 seconds. These girls can ride!!
THERE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN BLACK COWBOYS. AS COWHANDS AND HORSE WRANGLERS, historians calculate that 8,000 plus Black cowboys rode in the great Western cattle drives of the late 1860’s. Many “trail outfits” had at least one Black cowboy, but to the surprise of cowboy and western enthusiasts many “trail outfits” from the cook to the trail boss, were entirely made up of Black cowboys. From Wyoming to Texas, Black cowboys were renowned for their ability to ride horses, particularly the rankest broncos that many a white cowboy would not touch. The reputation of the Black cowboy did not stop there. The quintessential rope twirler and horseman Will Rogers himself was taught by a Black cowboy. Wild West shows, precursors to the modern rodeo, cast Black cowboy stars such as trick rider George Hooker, “Bronco” Jim Davis, Jesse Stall, and of course the legendary Bill Pickett. Wearing the title as the first professional bulldogger, Bill Pickett was described as the “greatest sweat and dirt cowhand that ever lived,” quite a compliment in the days of wide open spaces and cowboy livin’. As rodeos began to emerge from pure fun for cattle drives and trail outfits, and grew into crowds sitting atop the rails of round pens, organized rodeo associations formed. In 1947, a group of wealthy Black business men, prominent East Texas ranchers, and a handful of Black cowboys with national rodeo circuits, met on the edge of a south Houston ranch. Several hundred dollars later, the Negro Cowboys Rodeo Association was born. The country’s first and only organized Black cowboy association was sanctioned and produced its own rodeos across the West. These early rodeos were billed as “all-colored” and toured Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, through small towns like Egypt and Cheek on into Ft. Worth and San Antonio. Though the events were rough, tough, rip-and-jerk affairs, they were immensely successful. Black cowboys paid a steep $15 membership fee and an entry fee of $5 for each event they chose to ride. The purse for each event was never more than $30. The reputation of a rodeo cowboy was one of passion and braggin’ rights, not income. The Negro Cowboys Rodeo Association has long since dissolved and today Black cowboys are scattered from California to Connecticut, with South Texas remaining the hub of Black rodeo activity. However, the popularity of Black rodeos continues. On any given weekend from February to November within a 60 mile radius of Houston, three to five rodeos are sponsored by one of six predominantly Black Cowboy Rodeo Associations. Like all rodeo and cowboy associations, they are integrated, but membership remains 80 to 90 percent Black. Discrimination and funding kept Black cowboys out of the limelight. Today all that is changed. Black cowboys are competing regularly at formerly all-white rodeos, and there are increasing numbers of white cowboys at the once predominantly Black shows. Though many Black cowboys say they are cowboys first and Black second, they can still be found at the Black rodeos on Sunday afternoon.
In barrel racing, the contestant and her horse enter the arena at full speed. As they start the pattern, the horse and rider trigger an electronic eye that starts the clock. Then the racer rides a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels
positioned in the arena, and sprints back out of the arena, tripping the eye and stopping the clock as she leaves. The contestant can touch or even move the barrels, but receives a fivesecond penalty for each barrel that is
overturned. With the margin of victory measured in hundredths of seconds, knocking over one barrel spells disaster.
Unlike the other roughstock contestants, bull riders are not required to spur. No wonder. It’s usually impressive enough just to remain seated for eight seconds on an animal that may weigh more than a ton and is as quick as he is big. Upper body control and strong legs are essential to riding bulls.
The rider tries to remain forward, or “over his hand,” at all times. Leaning back could cause him to be whipped forward when the bull bucks. Judges watch for good body position and other factors, including use of the free arm and spurring action. Although not required, spurring will add points to a rider’s score.
As in all the riding events, half of the score in bull riding is determined by the contestant’s performance and the other half is based on the animal’s efforts. A bull rider will be disqualified for touching the animal, himself or his equipment with his free hand or bucking off.
Added Money - Money donated to the rodeo committee by the sponsors to attract the contestants to the rodeo for competition.
Fighting Bull - The exact kind of bull that you would like to give your mother-inlaw. These bulls are almost considered to be head hunters, but not quite.
Arena Director - Person responsible to see that the rodeo goes smoothly and according to the rules of the P.R.C.A.
Flagman - This is the official who signals the end of elapsed time in timed events.
Breaking the barrier - When a contestant rides through, or breaks the barrier (rope or electonic eye) before it is released. Breaking the barrier adds a penalty of ten seconds to the contestant’s time. Champion - The rodeo champion is traditionally the high-money winner in an event for that season. Chasing the Cans - The rodeo nickname/term for barrel racing. Chute Fighter - What a rough stock animal is called that will not stand still and tries to fight the cowboy before he leaves the chute. Double Kicker - When a horse or bull that kicks up with the hind legs, walks on the front legs and then kicks again with the hind legs, before the hind legs touch the ground. Ducks Off - When an animal that is running in a forward direction then suddenly moves off to the left or right. Entry Fee - This is the money paid by the contestant before competing in a rodeo. Contestants must pay separate entry fees for each event they enter.
Go round - This is the part of the rodeo that is required to allow each contestant to compete on one head of stock. Hazer - This is the cowboy that rides on the opposite side of the steer and keeps the stock from running away from the steer wrestler’s horse Header - This is the cowboy that ropes the steer around the horns, head, or neck in team roping Hung Up - When a rider that is off the animal but is still stuck in the rigging or bull rope. Jerk Down - When after roping the calf, the roper flips the calf straight over backwards. Can sometimes result in disqualification.L Neck Rope - This is a rope that is affixed to an animal’s neck in the timed events. It is used to trip the barrier in front of the contestant to assure the animal a head start. No time - Means that the contestant has not caught or thrown the stock properly, and does not receive a time for that go-round.
Lu Vason, Founder and Creator 1984 to 2015
Executive Editors Valeria Howard-Vason Kenneth Johnson Renee Renick ART DIRECTOR Jody Gilbert Custom Designer Karimo - Bush Ltd. CLP Specialty Advertising
Executive Office President, Lu Vason
Comptroller Leigh Hogan
Vice President CFO/COO Valeria Howard-Vason
Photography Edward Miller, LaDorria Jones Fly Thomas, Phillip Doyle, Roy Dabney, Ian Williams, Paul Smith, Kent D. Lyons, Pat Duncan, Linda Frizzi
Corporate Secretary Dennis Johnson
Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo PO BOX 39163 • Denver, CO 80239-1163
Valeria Howard-Vason Executive Producer
Sedgwick Haynes Co-General Manager
Sheri Vason Co- Producer
Barbara “Miss Kitty” Love Memphis TN Coordinator
Margo Wade-LaDrew LA CA Coordinator
Jeff DouVal, Oakland Co-Coordinator
Ronnie Franks Atlanta GA Coordinator
Montaque Mansfield Virginia Coordinator
Greg Freeman WDC-Baltimore Coordinator
Shipping Address 5829 S. Quintero Circle, Centennial, CO 80015 Phone: 303.373.1246 • FAX: 303-693-9886 EMAIL: Info@Billpickettrodeo.com
billpickettrodeo.com
Sam Howery Rodeo Announcer Deon Osborne Arena Director
Sam Lowry Rodeo Announcer
Carolyn Carter Co-General Manager
Marcous Friday Rodeo Announcer
Jvohn DeCluette “Jack Of All Trades”
Tiphani Carter Grand Entry Assistant
Alfred Ousley Judges Coordinator
Acynthia Villery Rodeo Secretary
Ariel Vason Rodeo-Intern
Stephanie Haynes Rodeo Secretary
CR Troy Walker Buffalo Soldier