Our industry was built by the dedication and hard work of hundreds of mentors, leaders, and innovators. This year we get to celebrate the life of one who was taken home too soon but whose legacy continues to impact the leaders of today and tomorrow. Your 2022 Best of the Barns Industry Leader of the Year is none other than Jim Bloomberg. Jim or Blue as he was known to many, had a one of a kind style and a one of a kind way of being humble and hard working which makes his memory legendary.
Jim was a family man through and through. Jared and Bailey Boyert, who were longtime friends of Jim’s, spoke on how they believe his legacy will be carried on. The answer was simple. Jared stated “Though his kids, are all very talented people, his grandkids already are better public speakers than most people who have a four year degree. Jim loved his family and he treated his friends like family.” The Bloomberg family owns and operates Bloomberg Cattle. Jim’s wife of 37 years Mary, and three children Blake, Jamie, and Jake who all will carry on the work Jim left behind. Jim was blessed with six grandchildren who idolized him. He was their hero, their friend, and their biggest cheerleader.
A pat on the back goes a long way. Jim was infamous for his encouraging pats on the back and high-fiving every single kid. During his time with the Illinois Beef Expo and the Illinois State Fair, he would line up the classes and be sure to speak to each exhibitor and wish them good luck. When he judged Jim didn’t stop at a high-five, he gave out handshakes, hugs, and maybe even got down on one knee to give some advice.
Jim Bloomberg was always dedicated to educating, inspiring, and supporting juniors and junior programs across the country. He worked for years with the Illinois Simmental Association as well as the Illinois Beef Expo. His legacy was built on working hard and staying humble. The creation of the Jim Bloomberg Memorial Scholarship will allow the next generation of industry leaders to be inspired by a man who, as Jared Boyert stated, “walked to the beat of his own drum and he wasn’t afraid to be different.”
There truly is no better man’s footsteps to follow in than Jim Bloomberg’s. Sullivan Supply is honored to have memorial shirts created where 100% of the proceeds go to the scholarship foundation. They can be found at sullivansupply.com or at a Sullivan Supply Trailer close to you. Be a part of building the next generation of industry leaders.
Sullivan Supply wants to thank the entire Bloomberg family and extend a “High-Five ” tp them Just as Jim would have. Your dedication to this industry is unsurpassed and we wish you all the best of luck as you continue on. Congratulations again to Jim Bloomberg for being selected as the 2023 Best of the Barns Industry Leader of the year. Blue, we know you are still mentoring even from above!
