Bill Kurtis takes audience on a journey through industry history

The keynote speaker at the Meat Industry Hall of Fame Inaugural Induction Ceremony in Chicago on Oct. 27, when 21 leaders of the industry were honored, was broadcaster and television journalist Bill Kurtis. In a dynamic 30-minute speech, he summarized more than a century of industry history. Kurtis suggested that we pause to appreciate what the giants of the meat industry have achieved, noting that the location—Chicago’s Union League Club, was organized to elect Ulysses S. Grant as president.

He talked about the unique tasks that faced fellow Illinoisian Abe Lincoln upon taking office in 1861, when he learned that half the country did not merely dislike him, but were going to form their own country. Using Grant as a yardstick, he noted three things we can learn about success—Timing, Preparation, and Vision, followed by execution. These are qualities he said every one of the Members of the Meat Industry Hall of Fame has displayed!

Kurtis traced the history of beef in America to what he called “the real start” immediately after the Civil War, and it was always connected to Chicago. Here is a transcript of his remarks: