Below is the story written by a local newspaper, the Custer County Chief, in the March 6th 2025 edition:
Bill Adams and Jerry Adams of Broken Bow were recognized as NEBRASKAlander Award Honorees at the March 1 Nebraska Statehood Day dinner in Lincoln.
The annual event is hosted by the NEBRASKAland Foundation to commemorate Nebraska becoming a state on March 1, 1867. Once a year, the capitol rotunda is transformed into a beautiful venue for more than 250 invite-only guests to celebrate the state and acknowledge distinguished Nebraskans.
The Adams brothers were nominated for the dynamics they have brought to the cattle-feeding industry, their strategy for growth and their long term vision for Adams Land & Cattle Company (ALCC).
In his acceptance speech, Jerry stated, “Bill and I are humbled and honored to receive the NEBRASKAland award. We are excited to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the state.” He added, “Many individuals have helped us along our journey with their dedication and guidance. Therefore, the credit for our success goes to them.”
In his acceptance speech, Bill acknowledged humble beginnings. “We have come a long way from where we started…just east of the fairgrounds in a small two-bedroom house with six kids. I appreciate all the support we have received from the community, state and industry.”
ALCC has grown from a small family operation into a finishing capacity of 125,000 head, a background network of up to 125,000 head in more than 85 locations and 6,000 acres of farmland.
The nomination information stated that, “Since 1951, ALCC has been using data, technology, innovation and now artificial intelligence to change the dynamics of cattle feeding…their commitment to sustainability, data, technology and continuous improvement has made ALCC a leader in the industry. It is a testament to the vision, hard work and legacy of Jerry and Bill as they prepare their company for generations to come.”
Over the years, the Adamses have volunteered on numerous boards and organizations. They are active in the CattleFax Board, Beef Alliance, Kansas City Federal Reserve Ag Board, Bellevue University and Custer Economic Development.
Jerry and his wife, Linda, have been married for more than 50 years and have three children, Amy, Melissa and Scott, and nine grandchildren. Bill and his wife, Connie, have also been married for more than 50 years. They have three children, Kelley, Matt and Jill, and six grandchildren.
Also receiving NEBRASKAlander Honorees recognition were former Nebraska Governor David Heineman and his wife, Sally Ganem, and Chairman Emeritus of Peter Kiewit Sons Kenneth Stinson.