Fall sale season is in full swing and the fall show season is about to heat up. Chianina cattle have been in the top 5 of many major shows throughout the summer. Chianina & Chiangus Cattle…Performance Without Compromise. Photo credit - Andy Higgins
ACJ (ISSN 1068-8021) is published quarterly at 1708 N. Prairie View Rd., PO Box 890, Platte City, MO 64079. Subscription price is $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Platte City, MO and additional mailing offices. Production by American Chianina Journal | Heather Counts, Editor Subscription Rate: $25/year (U.S. funds only). Postmaster: Send address changes to: ACJ, PO Box 890, Platte City, MO 64079
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING POLICY:
The ACJ reserves the right to refuse any advertising copy at its sole discretion. The ACJ assumes no responsibilities for the accuracy of the advertising content as submitted. Advertisers assume all responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of submitted advertising containing pedigrees or statements regarding performance. Advertisers shall indemnify and hold harmless the ACJ for any claims concerning advertising content as submitted.
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CHIANINA CONNECTION
by Dustin Hurlbut, CEO, American Chianina Association
Iam not sure how we are approaching the end of the year, but here we are! It seems like we just left Junior Nationals and now we are into the rush of fall shows. We are just coming off a very successful American Royal in Kansas City. This was the 5th year for our Chianina show back at the Royal and it was our biggest one yet. As always, the quality was top notch. I took questions all week about our Junior Nationals; whether it be new families who have bought heifers or families who are possibly looking to be a part of Junior Nationals in Grand Island. The buzz about Junior Nationals keeps getting louder and louder and that to me is very exciting!
We are gearing up for our National Show in Louisville, Ky., in a few weeks. We also will have our annual membership meeting and board meetings while in Louisville. Our schedule has changed again and we are on the “long” schedule. We will show junior cattle on Sunday, Nov. 16 and then the open show will be on Wednesday, Nov. 19. We invite you to the NAILE for a great week of Chianina cattle and meetings.
It’s also time to start thinking about the National Sale held in Oklahoma City, Okla. If you are interested in consigning to the National sale please reach out to Heather, myself or Tyler Humphrey who will be the sales manager this year. Be sure to watch your email or the ACA social media for links to the entry forms for the sale in Oklahoma City. It’s sure to be another great display
of Chianina cattle. We have a busy winter ahead of us with Oklahoma City, Denver and Ft. Worth essentially back to back to back and we hope to see many of you at the shows!
If you are traveling to shows you will see lots of construction at the facilities this fall and winter. Louisville is under construction as they are building a new facility so everyone will have to be patient with the construction happening while we are there. In September I toured the new facility in Denver and the new “hill” barn will be ready for cattle in January! This facility looks to be an amazing new facility that compliments the “yards” nicely! We will again have a booth in herd sire alley so be sure to look us up while in Denver. If you have been waiting for the new facility to be open in Denver, be sure to get your entries in – you will not be disappointed at all!
The cattle markets are still in our favor and now is the time to be buying bulls for your cows to add pounds to your calf crop. Pounds = Profit, plain and simple! There will be sales coming up this winter and into the spring that will have top end herd bulls for sale, so if you are in need of any assistance in finding some new herd sires please reach out and we will see if we can send you in the right direction. Chianina Cattle = Performance Without Compromise.
See you soon
~ Dustin
A WORD FROM THE BOARD
What A Journey It's Been
by Derek Evans, Treasurer & At Large Director
To the Board, the staff, and the members of the American Chianina Association —
As I deliver this final address after one term as an At-Large Director and one as Treasurer, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and an unshakable confidence in the future we are building together.
Serving the past six years has been a privilege. First, as an At-Large Director, I had the chance to sit at the table and listen — really listen — to ranchers from Montana to Missouri, and to speak up for breeders everywhere. Then, as Treasurer, I got to make sure every dollar we spent pushed our mission forward — to promote this breed and support the breeders, exhibitors, and families who make the Chianina breed a cornerstone of the American cattle industry. Over the past 6 years we strengthened our finances, expanded performance data, elevated our national show, protected the integrity of the registry, and proved again and again that Chianina genetics deliver — in the pasture, in the ring, and on the rail.
But when I look back – above every vote, every budget, every motion – one truth rises to the top: we must stay laser-focused on the next generation of leaders in the cattle industry.
The future of this Association isn’t in the hands of those of us writing checks or making breeding decisions right now. It’s in the hands of the 4-H kid fitting a heifer in the barn before dawn; the high-school senior crunching yield-grade data for a science fair; the young producer already asking hard questions about sustainability and profitability. They are the minds who will blend tradition with innovation, meet global demand with American excellence, and carry the Chianina story into the next century.
To make sure they’re ready, I leave the Board with three clear charges:
1) Invest boldly in youth.
Grow scholarships. Expand mentorship. Put leadership development in every budget. A seed planted in a junior today becomes a forest of influence tomorrow.
2) Build real bridges across generations.
Give young people actual seats and an actual voice — on committees, in planning, at the mic. Don’t just let them hear policy — let them shape it.
3) Champion their voice in the beef industry. Take them to NCBA, to breed association summits, to Capitol Hill. The industry and the country need to hear them now, not later.
Friends, this Association is in a strong place. The balance sheet is the best it has ever been. Our influence is growing. And our people — especially our young people — are second to none.
To the staff — thank you for your dedication. To my fellow directors — thank you for your wisdom and friendship. To the membership — thank you for trusting me to serve on the board, twice.
As I step down, I do so knowing the gavel and the ledger are headed into capable, passionate, and increasingly younger hands. Let’s keep pushing higher, protecting our legacy, and above all, investing in the leaders who will carry us further than we’ve ever been.
God bless the American Chianina Association, the Chianina breed, and the young hearts who will lead it forward.
With respect, gratitude and full confidence –Derek P. Evans At-Large Director (2019–2022) & Treasurer (2022–2025)
ASSOCIATION INFORMATION
AMERICAN CHIANINA ASSOCIATION STAFF
WWW.CHICATTLE.ORG PO BOX 890 PLATTE CITY, MO 64079 816.431.2808 816.431.5381 - FAX
Dustin Hurlbut Chief Executive Officer dustin@chicattle.org (605) 380-8052 - direct
Jennifer Roach Executive Director jennifer@chicattle.org
Heather Counts Director of Shows & Activities ACJ Editor heather@chicattle.org (517) 214-0927 - direct
Rilee Wood Communications/Social Media Director rileehall@chicattle.org
2025 AMERICAN CHIANINA ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Neal Branscum – President
At Large • Kentucky Term expires 2027 606.872.5395 nealbrascum@hotmail.com
Jill Boddicker – Vice President Southeast Region • Georgia Term expires 2026 770.654.1510 jbcattleranch@gmail.com
Katy Rucker – Secretary At Large • Texas Term expires 2025 940.391.9121 ksatree1@gmail.com
Derek Evans – Treasurer At Large • Kentucky Term expires 2025 217.218.0242 derek@summitflooring.us
Donna Hildreth At Large • Montana Term expires 2026 406.681.3111 grt3111@montana.com
Travis Pembrook Southwest Region • Oklahoma Term expires 2025 405.206.7997 pembrookcc@pldi.net
Colton Prescott
Northeast Region • Indiana Term expires 2027 260.729.2713 crprescott92@yahoo.com
MaLaine Strope Northwest Region • Nebraska Term expires 2026 402.340.5241 stropehome@msn.com
Nate Tice At Large • Iowa Term expires 2027 717.926.0874 tice152@gmail.com
Justin Tracy At Large • Nebraska Term expires 2026 308.962.4255 justin@tracycattle.com
Tyler Winegardner At Large • Ohio Term expires 2025 419.236.4375 tylerwinegardner@icloud.com
Lucas Wisnefski At Large • Illinois Term expires 2027 309.883.3971 lwisnefski97@gmail.com
AJCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
#prestigiousinpurple
Charlie Hazelrigg, President
At Large • Missouri • Term expires 2026 573.355.6686 • cjhazelrigg@gmail.com
Ellie Hert, Vice President
At Large • Texas • Term expires 2026 512.948.9122 • elliemaeh62@gmail.com
Mikayla McDonald, Secretary/Treasurer
Southeast Region • Georgia • Term expires 2026 478.235.7734 • mikaylamcdonald33@gmail.com
Remi Earnhart, Public Relations
At Large (NW) • Indiana • Term expires 2027 260.633.5188 • remijo08@gmail.com
Breck Boyce
Southwest Region • Texas • Term expires 2027 817.894.0608 • boycebroscattleco@icloud.com
Barrett Evans
At Large • Ohio • Term expires 2028 330.462.8282 • bearwevans@gmail.com
Peyton Heard
At Large • Georgia • Term expires 2028 478.997.1881 • pheard4807@gmail.com
Kaylee Jennings
Northeast Region • Ohio • Term expires 2028 513.203.9311 • kayleejennings531@gmail.com
McKenzie Klemkosky
At Large • Florida • Term expires 2027 813.598.9462 • mckenzie020905@gmail.com
Mika Malone
At Large • Kentucky • Term expires 2028 859.954.1968 • maloneshowstock@gmail.com
Casha Ray
At Large • Texas • Term expires 2027 254.459.8623 • damwray@yahoo.com
Quinn Whaley
At Large • Iowa • Term expires 2026 515.851.5985 • quinnwhaley24@gmail.com
History of the Breed
by Breck Boyce, Southwest Region Director
The Chianina breed, one of the oldest and most distinctive breeds of cattle in the world, traces its roots back over two thousand years to the Chiana Valley in central Italy. Originally developed as a dual-purpose breed for both draft power and meat, the Chianina’s towering stature, snow-white coat, and noble presence made it a prized symbol of strength and beauty in ancient Roman times. Statues and carvings from that era often depict Chianina oxen leading triumphal processions, underscoring their importance in agriculture and culture alike.
Historically, Chianinas were valued primarily for their immense size and power. Mature bulls often stood over six feet tall at the shoulder and were used to pull plows and wagons across the rugged Italian countryside. Their hardiness, docility and adaptability to heat made them indispensable work animals long before the age of mechanization. As agriculture modernized, however, their role shifted from draft animals to beef production. The breed’s lean, fine-grained meat gained recognition for its quality, especially in Italy, where it became the signature beef for the world-famous bistecca alla fiorentina.
The introduction of Chianina cattle to the United States in the 1970s marked a turning point in the breed’s evolution. Initially imported for their impressive size and rapid growth rate, Chianina cattle were crossbred with popular American breeds such as Angus and Hereford to enhance carcass yield and frame size. These crossbreds — often referred to as “Chi-crosses”— combined the muscle and elegance of the Chianina with the maternal traits of native beef breeds, quickly catching the attention of both commercial producers and show cattle enthusiasts.
Over time, selective breeding efforts refined the Chianina’s look and temperament to better fit the show ring. The modern American Chianina and Chianina-influenced cattle (recognized under the American Chianina Association) display a balance of muscle, structure and style that appeals to judges and exhibitors alike. While the original Italian Chianina remains tall and rangy, the American show version emphasizes eye appeal, soundness and performance traits suited for competitive livestock shows.
Today, the Chianina stands as a testament to how a breed can evolve without losing its identity. From the massive white oxen of ancient Rome to the sleek, powerful beef cattle dominating the show circuit today, the Chianina’s journey reflects the adaptability and enduring appeal of one of the world’s great bovine lineages. Its transformation showcases the blend of history, genetics and human vision that continues to shape the livestock industry today.
Steer Rewards Program
Payouts for Major Fat Shows, Influential Shows &Minor Shows
Requirements:
1. Steers must be registered and transferred to an ACTIVE junior member on or before the entry deadline. (The actual day the work was done)
2. Awards will be paid to the junior member after both an official photograph and press release from show officials have been received by the ACA (information can be emailed to heather@chicattle.org).
3. If the show offers a division for Chianina steers, the steer must be shown as a Chianina.
Major Fat Steer Shows – Payout-$2000-Moneysplit50/50betweenbreederandowner
American Royal
National Western Stock Show
E. Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
If a Chianina steer is not selected as Grand Champion but a qualifying steer places in the Top 5 a graduated scale will be used. ($800 for Reserve, $600 for third, $400 for fourth and $200 for fifth) for the highest placing steer in the show.
Influential Steer Shows - Greater than 200 head of steers exhibited or a State Fair or Expo – Payout$500
If a Chianina steer is not selected as Grand Champion but a qualifying steer places in the Top 5, a graduated scale will be used. ($400 for Reserve, $300 for third, $200 for fourth and $100 for fifth) for the highest placing steer in the show.
Minor Steer Shows - <200 head of steers and >100 head of steers exhibited – Payout$250
If a Chianina steer is not selected as Grand Champion, $125 will be paid to the Reserve if he qualifies.
If your steer qualifies, please send results documentation and photo to Heather Counts at heather@chicattle.org. Once info is received, a payout will be sent from the ACA office. For questions, please contact Heather at 517-214-0927.
Kelsey Evans – President
At Large Director • Kentucky 859.553.3059 • kelseyculpevans@gmail.com
Segayle Foster – Vice President
Southwest Region Director • Texas 806.445-2496 • segaylef@yahoo.com
Barb Garrett – Secretary/Treasurer
Northeast Region Director • Indiana 765.969.0921 • barb@barbgarrett.com
Jessica Cheesman
Northeast Region Director • Indiana 765.468.7405 • jessicalcheesman@gmail.com
Marna Higgins
Southeast Region Director • Tennessee 615.273.2656 • higgmarna@aol.com
Amelia Weaver
Southeast Region Director • Tennessee 615.636.3942 • ahiggins0807@gmail.com
Shawnda Foster
Southwest Region Director • Texas 806.652.2383 • shawndafoster@att.net
Bridget Schaefer
Northwest Region Director • North Dakota 701.725.4902
Kaylee Tracy
Northwest Region Director • Nebraska 308.660.7069 • kaylee@tracycattle.com
Becky Sheets
At Large Director • Indiana 765.714.1200 • rsheets462@aol.com
Sue Comer • Scholarship Chair Indiana • 765.969.8259
Royalty Coordinator
Kelsey Evans • 859.553.3059
LADIES AUXILIARY
Auxiliary Update
by Kelsey Evans, President
Happy Fall, Y’all! It seems like the request from Heather to write an article creeps up on me faster each time. And while some issues take a bit of thought before I land on what to write, this one always come easily. That's because it arrives right at the start of one of the busiest, and most loved, times of the year - fall show season!
The first fall show of the season, American Royal, is in the books, NAILE is right around the corner, and before we know it the holiday's will be here. Then we are straight into the January sprint of OKC, FWSSR and the NWSS. The 2025/2026 ACA Royalty will continue to be active and present at a lot of these events, and I encourage you to talk to both ladies, introduce yourselves, ask them questions, and invite them to your state events and sales if you'd like.
I’d like to pick back up on our biannual tradition of nominating and honoring a Chi Lady of the Year, an award we haven’t presented in a few years. If you have any nominations or suggestions, please reach out and connect with me with your choices. If you’re unsure who’s been awarded this in the past, I can share those with you as well.
I hope each one of you have a blessed holiday, a safe show season and travel through the winter months, and a prosperous 2026.
All the best, Kelsey
Interested in joining the Ladies Auxiliary?
Scan the QR code, print and fill out the application and return with dues to:
Barb Garrett
ACLA Secretary/Treasurer 5772 N US Highway 35, Williamsburg, IN 47393
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2025-2026 All-American Shows Announced
The shows listed below have been designated as All-American Point Shows for the 2025-2026 show season. Points will be tallied from junior and open shows if applicable.
• National Junior Heifer Show
• Eastern Regional Junior Show
• Western Regional Junior Show
• State Fair shows open to all exhibitors
• World Beef Expo
• American Royal
• North American International Livestock Exposition
• Cattlemen’s Congress
• National Western Stock Show
• Ft. Worth Stock Show
• Tulsa State Fair
NEW – Open Chi-Composite Female Shows Added to National Shows
The Board of Directors voted at their April meeting to add an open Chi-Composite Female show to all national shows, starting with the 2025-2026 show season. The following shows will hold an open Chi-Composite Female show effective immediately.
• American Royal
• Cattlemen’s Congress
• National Western Stock Show (females will show with Chianina females - identical to junior show)
* Note: There will NOT be an open Chi-Composite show in Louisville at the North American this year, as the advisory board will discuss this at their 2026 meeting. We anticipate the addition of this show in 2026.
Mailed Registration Papers Now Optional
As digital papers are becoming more widely accepted at shows, members now have the option to select whether or not to have a registration paper mailed to them. When processing your
registrations in DigitalBeef there is a check box for this option on the calf recording line. It will default to mailing you a paper, but if you prefer to not receive a mailed paper, simply unclick the box. If you have questions, please contact the office for assistance.
DNA & Genetic Testing Requirements
All sires intended for use with artificial insemination (A.I.) must be blood typed or DNA tested before semen is distributed.
A. DNA Testing on AI Sires and Donor Females
1. All AI sires and donor dams must be DNA parent verified before calves will be registered.
2. All ACA registered AI sires will be required to be tested for genetic abnormalities recognized as monitor status by the ACA based on breed make up before calves will be registered in herds outside that of the current owner, unless they are Expected Free by Pedigree. If the AI Sire is not a registered ACA sire but is registered with another association, the sire’s status for breed relevant genetic abnormalities must be known per their breed makeup. If AI sire is “commercial”, it must be tested for all genetic abnormalities the ACA monitors.
3. Embryo donor dams currently registered in the ACA herd book will only be required to be tested for genetic abnormalities of which they have been identified as being a suspect. Donor dams registered with another association must meet those association’s requirements. Unregistered (Commercial) donor dams must be tested for all genetic abnormalities regardless of breed makeup.
B. All embryo donor cows must be blood typed or DNA tested.
When parentage is questioned, blood typing or DNA testing will be required and the questioning party shall bear all the cost. For blood typing or DNA testing materials you must contact the ACA office for instructions or referral to a laboratory approved by the ACA.
C. DNA on All Herd Sires
1. ALL AI ACA registered bulls born after January 1, 2017 must be DNA parent verified before their progeny can be registered.
For questions on DNA, please contact the office at 816-431-2808. Jennifer or Stephanie will be happy to assist you.
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Pay Balance Due in Timely Manner
Members are reminded to pay balances due prior to logging off of DigitalBeef after processing registrations/transfers or updating memberships. Please note, registration papers will not mail if a balance is due and memberships are set back to inactive status if balance is not paid before logging out. You may still pay balances by check, but please contact to office to let us know if you will be paying that way.
Reminders of balance due are sent weekly from the DigitalBeef system until the balance is paid.
Keep Contact Info Current to Receive Important ACA Correspondence
The ACA utilizes various ways to contact our members, but your information must be accurate in order to receive the most up to date info. Please confirm your information on your DigitalBeef account periodically. We ask that all members include an email address on your membership as this is one of the best ways for us to disseminate information to our membership quickly.
If you have questions or need assistance in updating your information, please contact the office.
Submit Upcoming Sales & Events
Do you have an upcoming sale or event that needs to be listed on the ACA upcoming events? Send this info to at heather@ chicattle.org and we will add it to our upcoming events listing in the ACJ as well as on the website. This is a free service to our members. Don’t miss out.
Photos Needed for Breed Promotion
The ACA is in need of current photos to use for breed promotion throughout various publications, brochures and other media. While you are out in your pastures, take some photos of your cattle and email to Heather at heather@chicattle.org. We need photos of bulls, females, calves, herds, feedlot photos, kids working with their calves and more. The options are endless. Thanks for your assistance is helping us promote this breed we all love.
National Show Membership Requirements
All exhibitors at a junior or open national level show must be an active member of the ACA or AJCA in order to exhibit. Junior members exhibiting at any national shows must be the sole owner
of the animal unless the animal is owned in a sibling membership account.
In Memory – Travis Pembrook
Travis Wayne Pembrook was born on January 19, 1974 in Fairview, Okla., to Lonnie and LaDonna Pembrook. He passed from this life on Friday, August 22, 2025 in Fairview.
Travis accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior when he was six years old and was baptized at the age of nine.
Travis grew up in a loving home with his parents and little sister Jackie. He grew up with registered Angus cattle in Oklahoma, was an active member in the American Angus Association, and helped promote his family’s operations at events across the United States. Travis helped exhibit cattle at state fairs and shows across the nation. Throughout high school, Travis was an active member in the Fairview FFA Chapter, receiving both the State FFA and American FFA Degrees. Travis graduated from Fairview High School in 1992 and pursued further education at Oklahoma State University.
Travis met the love of his life Beth Ann Murphy in 1995 when Travis went to Lexington, Ky., to help with show cattle at an operation managed by Beth’s father. Travis and Beth were married on October 5, 1996. It didn’t take long for both Travis and Beth to develop a deep passion to continue their careers in an industry that had given them so much. Positioned at the edge of the Gloss Mountains in Northwest Oklahoma, near the town of Fairview, Travis and Beth continued Pembrook Cattle Company, taking over managing the Angus cattle that had already been put in place years ago by parents and grandparents. Travis carried on the same tradition of raising quality cattle on the same land that Travis’s family originally homesteaded. Travis also decided to use the talents he gained over the years working on show cattle to start a custom fitting service that would get cattle ready for shows and sales for other operations across the country. Within two years the custom fitting service had gotten bigger than they could have imagined. There were times when the two had more than 80 head that had been sent in from across the United States and Canada. The cattle that came in were to be shown at state fairs and national shows like the American Royal, North American, and National Western. They were blessed to have multiple national champions in several
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different breeds as well as work for and learn from some of the greatest minds in the cattle business.
While the custom fitting was in full swing, Travis and Beth also started to have sales of their own. As their breeding cattle operation started to grow and the Pembrook’s were starting to market a lot of cattle, the cattle were going out and winning at numerous shows around the country. Travis contributed their success not only to the cattle but even more so to being blessed by getting the cattle they raise and market into the hands of wonderful people. Travis valued each of these relationships with people who were like-minded, instilling values of hard work, family, and most importantly God into their children. This is what led to one of their ad slogans of “Putting Good Cattle into the Hands of Great People.”
Travis said the two most important additions to ever come along at Pembrook Cattle Company were his children. On October 24, 2008, Travis and Beth welcomed their son Bret Wayne Pembrook into their lives, and then they welcomed Bryson Allen Pembrook on July 2, 2014. Along with his family, Travis enjoyed hosting small group cattle camps in the summer that helped train youth in the basic skills of show cattle selection, preparation, nutrition and showmanship. Travis had a strong passion for working with youth of the livestock industry and passing down the skills that have been given to them. Travis enjoyed judging shows like the National Western Livestock Show, the Angus Junior Nationals, the North American Livestock Show, the American Royal Livestock Show, the Cow Palace in California, the Atlantic Nationals and numerous other state and local livestock shows around the country.
Travis served in the Fairview community as the President of the Fairview School Board from 2016 until his passing. He was also a member of the Fairview Mennonite Brethren Church. Travis was a board member of the American Chianina Association and a board member of the “Live Like Lily Foundation” that provides scholarships in memory of Lily Romanchuck. Travis had a passion for flying his Cessna 182 airplane and had his private pilot license.
Travis was a mentor to everyone around him, motivating and challenging others to do hard things. He strove for excellence in every detail, working hard for the Lord in each task, whether small or big. Travis had a love for the Lord and kindness to others that was contagious. He lit up every room he walked into with his smile and entertained us with stories that made us laugh. Travis encouraged others to love God and love people.
Travis is survived by his wife, Beth (Murphy) Pembrook, and children, Bret and Bryson Pembrook of Fairview; parents Lonnie
and LaDonna Pembrook of Fairview, father-in-law David Murphy of Lexington, KY, sister Jackie Sperling (Andy) of Claremore; brother-in-law Dale Murphy of Lexington, KY, niece Kate Sperling and nephew Evan Sperling of Claremore; and maternal grandmother Joyce Martens of Fairview. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jack and Lorene Pembrook, maternal grandfather, Don Martens and mother-in-law Linda (Holland) Murphy. Memorials can be made to the Travis Pembrook Memorial Scholarship Fund. Checks can be made payable to “Cattlemen’s Congress Travis Pembrook Memorial Scholarship Fund” at 21 Land Rush Street; Oklahoma City, OK 73107.
In Memory – Jerry Adamson
Jerry Daniel Adamson, age 86, of Cody, Neb., passed away peacefully, with his wife Deloris by his side, on September 17, 2025, at Linden Court in North Platte. He was born in Valentine, Neb., on Feb. 22, 1939, as the first-born child of Emmet and Helen (Newberg) Adamson. He had one brother, Rex, and they rode horses every day to their District #88 schoolhouse. He attended his freshman year of high school at the University of Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis and attended Cody-Kilgore High School for his remaining three years, graduating in 1956. Basketball was one of his favorite sports. His senior year Jerry was named “Most Valuable Player of the Year” and his team were District Champions. He attended Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., for six quarters where he was a member of Farmhouse Fraternity, Rodeo Club, Riding Club and competed on the livestock judging team. During this time, he was elected vice-president of the Nebraska Junior Stock Growers Association as well as being selected their “Youth of the Year”. Jerry ‘s love of ranching and desire to continue his family’s legacy brought him back to the ranch. On June 17, 1960, he married Deloris Marshall (Dee) as the first wedding in the new Episcopal Church in Valentine. They celebrated their 65th anniversary this past June. Together they raised four children – Todd, Tracy, Taylor and Tanya and have been blessed with eleven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and counting.
Jerry appreciated good horses, exceptional cattle, Cornhusker football, a competitive game of cribbage and he had a heart for people. He loved roping of any kind and was in his element when heeling calves in the branding pen or roping steers in an arena.
Each spring, after appraising his newest crop of calves, he would say with pride, “You know, I think these are the best set of calves we’ve ever raised.” A pastime Jerry shared with his father was hunting coyotes with his prized greyhounds and you were guaranteed a wild ride if you were a passenger on one of his coyote hunting escapades!
Jerry’s passion for judging and showing cattle was rewarded by winning numerous state and national awards across the country. He was asked to judge livestock in nearly every major show across the United States as well as the prestigious Canadian Western Agribition. One of his proudest accomplishments was winning every major pen of five feeder show in the nation in one year, each one a different group of steers, which has never been duplicated yet today. He attributed much of his success in the show cattle industry to his herdsman and good friend, Keith Dusenberry. Keith and his wife Candi worked on the Rocking J Ranch for thirty-two years along with their daughters Ardith and Aimee and Jerry thought of them as extended family.
Jerry believed in giving back to his community and was committed to youth development in livestock production. He served on the First National Bank Board of Directors for many years, was a Cherry County Commissioner for twelve years, presided over both the local fire district and the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest Land Users Association, served on the Valentine High School Board of Education for 16 years, as well as serving on the District #180 school board. He was a 4-H Beef Leader, and he and his wife Dee hosted college interns and judging teams from several universities to their ranch who all hoped to gain from Jerry’s comprehensive knowledge of the beef industry. He was a big promoter of Cherry County and referred to it as “God’s Own Cow Country.” On the national level, he served on the board of directors for the American Chianina Association, serving two years as chairman of the board.
Jerry’s dedication to agriculture brought numerous awards and recognition. A highlight of his accolades include being named “Top Rancher in Cherry County”, “Nebraska Cattleman of the Year”, “Outstanding Young Farmer/Rancher in Livestock Breeding”, “University of Nebraska Block and Bridle Honoree”, elected to membership in the “Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement”, received the coveted “Commercial Producer of the Year” bestowed by the Beef Improvement Federation and was appointed an “Admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska” by former governor, Kay Orr.
Jerry will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, innovative ideas in the cattle industry, mentorship of youth in agriculture,
and unwavering faith in the importance of hard work and family. His impact on ranching and agriculture in Nebraska and across the nation is lasting and his devotion to nurturing the next generation will be felt for years to come.
He is survived by his wife, Deloris; children Todd (Stacey) Adamson, Tracy (Kirk) Olson, Taylor (Kerri) Adamson and Tanya (Eric) Storer; grandchildren Dayna (Trey) Wasserburger, Caitlyn (Pat) Jacobson, Jayde Winkelbauer, Braden (Alyssa) Storer, Emmet Storer, Hailey Storer, Lindsay (Kelly) Taylor, J.T. Adamson, Sydney (Chadron) Coffield, Jakob (Courtney) Adamson and Payton Adamson. Great- grandchildren Westyn, Wacey, Gwyn and Gentry Wasserburger, Sage Winkelbauer, Hazel Jacobson, Lewis and Eowyn Storer and Thane Adamson. He is also survived by his brother, Rex (Evalyn) Adamson; nephews Brad (Kim) Adamson, Bart (Kelly) Adamson, and Bret (Velda) Adamson; niece Angel (Greg) Davis; and Godchildren Gordon (Lori) Coble, Ardith (Billy) Seaman, and Aimee (James) Wilkins and numerous cousins, great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Monte Adamson, parents Emmet and Helen (Newberg) Adamson, mother and father in-law Wayne and Carrie (Wright) Marshall, step- fatherin-law, Earl Schufeldt and brother-in-law, Gordon Marshall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to “Jerry Adamson Memorial Scholarship” which the family will use to support and promote youth in the field of agriculture.
2026 Junior Nationals June 12-18, 2026
Grand Island, NE
National Shows Information
NAILE JuNIor Show, LouISvILLE, KY
Show Date: Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025 - 8 a.m.
Entry Deadline: Oct. 7, 2025
Late Entry Deadline: Oct. 14, 2025
Arrival Date: Thursday, Nov. 13-Friday, Nov. 14
Show Judge: Brent Murphy
ACA NAtIoNAL Show – NAILE
LouISvILLE, KY
Show Date: Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025 - 1 p.m.
Entry Deadline: Oct. 7, 2025
Late Entry Deadline: Oct. 14, 2025
Arrival Date: Thursday, Nov. 13-Friday, Nov. 14
Show Judge: Charlie & Blake Boyd
CAttLEmEN’S CoNgrESS, oKLAhomA
CIt Y, oK
Junior & Open Chiangus Females, All Bulls, Junior & Open Chi-Composite Female Shows: Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026 - 1 p.m.
Evans presented the treasurer’s report. The association is in a positive position for the summer and trends are moving in a positive direction. Motion was made to approve the report; seconded; motion passed.
Staff Reports:
Counts gave an overview of the upcoming board elections and the timeline for nominations. She also gave an update on Junior Nationals. The show was another great success and entries and junior member participation continue to increase every year.
Old Business:
Hurlbut updated the board on the meeting at Junior Nationals regarding the proposed Chiangus show rule changes. There was a good crowd in attendance and great discussion. The board reviewed the wording that staff wrote based on board direction. Much board discussion followed. It was decided to table the discussion until the fall board meeting and board members were asked to continue discussing this change with the membership.
New Business:
Meeting dates for the fall were discussed. The board will meet via Zoom in September, and then in person in Louisville on November 17.
The board also brought up bringing back the herdsman social in Louisville.
Strope moved to adjourn the meeting; Wisnefski seconded; motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 8:18 pm.
ACA Board of Directors Meeting August 7, 2025 • via Zoom
Branscum called the meeting to order at 7:10 pm CST.
Branscum turned the meeting over to Hurlbut to talk about how discussions have gone regarding the proposed Chiangus Show Rule changes. Hurlbut suggested a committee of breeders & board members be created to discuss this topic and bring a report back to the board in November.
Tracy moved to create a committee to look into the Chiangus show rule proposal and come back to the board with a solution/suggestions. Prescott seconded; motion passed. Staff also suggested a survey be sent out to the membership to obtain opinions and information on the subject. The board directed staff to create and send a survey on the Chiangus proposal with anonymous results shared with the committee.
Evans moved to adjourn the meeting; Miller seconded; motion passed.
SHOW RESULTS
Ohio State Fair Junior Show
Reserve supreme breeding heifer grand champion chianina
JSUL Who Dat 4116M ET Exhibited by Karlie Kennedy
grand champion chiangus
EGY Mandy’s Encore 22M ET Exhibited by Emma Yochum
sixth overall market steer grand champion chianina
Exhibited by Karlie Kennedy
reserve champion chianina
TSSC BT Blackberry Exhibited by Addison Fennig
reserve champion chiangus
WRA HR YNOT 21M Exhibited by Kaylee Jennings
Eighth overall market steer
Reserve champion chianina
Exhibited by Bryson Jones
Indiana state fair Junior Show SHOW RESULTS
fifth overall breeding heifer grand champion chianina
Sire: 24K Dam: Fetty Exhibited by Coldar Cunningham
grand champion chiangus
Sire: Crossover Dam: Style Exhibited by Landree Warnock
grand champion chianina steer
Sire: IGWT
Exhibited by Spencer Goetemoeller
reserve champion chianina
Sire: J Boy Platform Dam: Fiskey Whiskey Exhibited by Izabella Stanfield
reserve champion chiangus
Sire: DAJS Blackout Dam: Beyonce 526J Exhibited by Landree Street
Reserve champion chianina steer
Sire: Here I Am Exhibited by Lillie Sickafoose
Illinois state fair JUnior Show SHOW RESULTS
Supreme champion heifer
grand champion chianina
JSUL Who Dat 4117M ET
Sire: W/C Bankroll 811D
Dam: JSUL Who Dat Darling 902G ET
Exhibited by Breckyn Bloomberg
Reserve grand champion Steer
grand champion chianina Steer
Sire: HGTA
Bred by Brian Myers
Exhibited by Emily Atten
reserve champion chianina
KNE Queen 31M ET
Sire: Colburn Primo 5153
Dam: SSUL Sultry Dear 5978
Exhibited by Jenne Setchell
Reserve grand champion chianina
Sire: HIA
Bred by Brent Schnettgoecke
Exhibited by Brayden Richardson
Iowa State Fair Junior Show SHOW RESULTS
Sire: All Me
Dam: Marley
Bred by Blind Badger Ranch
Exhibited by Rylee Short
Sire: HGTA
Bred by Luke Streit
Exhibited by Kenleigh Fooken
Sire: Berwick Dam: 902G
Bred by Sullivan Farms Exhibited by Carley Conrad
Sire: HIA
Bred by Nelson England Exhibited by Ada Lund
grand champion chianina steer reserve champion chianina steer
grand champion chianina
Reserve champion chianina
Nebraska State Fair Junior Show SHOW RESULTS
grand champion 4-H chianina
Sire: End 2 End
Dam: SRR Monica 010H
Bred by Hadley, Wyatt, Blayne and Kyler Dunklau
Exhibited by Hadley Dunklau
grand champion FFA chianina
Sire: Crossover
Dam: Primo x WDM
Bred by Sullivan Farms
Exhibited by Adam Alfs
reserve champion 4-H chianina
Sire: PVF Marvel
Dam: Chiangus
Bred by Prospect Hill Farms
Exhibited by Gabby Caraway
reserve champion FFA chianina
Sire: Stillwater
Dam: Francis Daughter
Bred by Wayne and Barb Ohlrichs
Exhibited by Adyson Groteluschen
South Dakota state fair Junior Show SHOW RESULTS
fourth overall heifer reserve champion chianina grand champion chianina
Sire: Crossover
Dam: 831
JBOY Susie Q 431M
Bred by Boyert and Sigrist Exhibited by Oaklyn Plamp
Sire: End Game
Dam: HBSC Paula Dean
MINN Paula’s Got Game 119M
Bred by Jason Minnaert Exhibited by Charlee Holt
Junior Show Judge
Taylor Frank
Open Show Judge Kendall Bremer
2026 Schedule
Move In Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026
Check In Friday, Jan. 16 – 10 am Show
Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026– 8 am
Junior Show followed by Open Show
World Beef Expo Open Show SHOW RESULTS
Reserve supreme bull
grand champion chianina
LLW Cardinal Cross Hair 18L
Exhibited by Classic Genetics and Cardinal Cattle Co.
Reserve champion chianina Heifer
BRKR Harley 83M
Exhibited by Laramie Barker
Reserve champion chi-influence heifer
Desiree
Exhibited by Natalie Yates
grand champion chianina Heifer
JSUL Who’s Darlin 4418M
Exhibited by Sloan Curtin
grand champion chi-influence heifer
Harkers Trixie M307 ET
Exhibited by Chase Harker
Grand champion chi-influence Bull
PRES Ethel’s Resume Maker
Exhibited by Preston Cattle Co.
World Beef Expo Junior Show SHOW RESULTS
Reserve champion Chi-Influence Bull
JD Exhibited by Foggy View Farm
Reserve champion chianina Heifer
BRKR Nylah 503N ET
Exhibited by Kylee Barker
Grand champion chianina Heifer
JSUL Who’s Darlin 4418M
Exhibited by Sloan Curtin
grand champion chi-influence heifer Desiree
Exhibited by Natalie Yates
Reserve champion chi-influence heifer
Rory • Exhibited by Parker Twait
Grand champion breed steer
grand champion chianina
Exhibited by Blake Neill
third overall breed steer
Reserve champion Chianina
Exhibited by Casen Huls
ACJ Issues & Feature
January/February
National Show Results
May/June/July – HERD REFERENCE EDITION
All-American results, show animals of the year results, FWSS & NWSS Results
August/September
National Junior Heifer Show Coverage
November/December
National Show Preview
Advertising Space Rates
• Ads all 4/color
• Trim Size – 51 picas x 66 picas (8.5 in. x 11 in.)
• Image Area – 45 picas x 60 picas (7.5 in. x 10 in.)
Rilee Wood, Communications/Social Media Director rileehall@chicattle.org
The ACJ assumes no responsibilities for the accuracy of the advertising content as submitted. Advertisers assume all responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of submitted advertising containing pedigrees or statements regarding performance. Advertisers shall indemnify and hold harmless the ACJ for any claims concerning advertising content as submitted.
NEW ADULT MEMBERS
CALIFORNIA
Jarrett Darrah
Darrah Livestock 4621 Holm Rd Placerville, CA 95667
FLORIDA
Jakub Bruner 1604 Duncan Community Rd Chipley, FL 32428
GEORGIA
Bryson Smith
B49 Cattle Company 3665 Wax Rd SE Aragon, GA 30104
Cory Yarbrough
CWY Cattle Co 1558 Madison St Comer, GA 30629
ILLINOIS
Chase Aylesworth 4013 Orchard Ln Monticello, IL 61856
Dylan White Whites Cattle Services 4716 Kinmundy Rd Salem, IL 62881
INDIANA
Colton Clifford Crossroads Show Cattle 9662 N Meridian Line Rd Roachdale, IN 46172
