​The month of June saw record temperatures and tempers rise throughout the Midwest.   It only seemed fitting to bring in the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce President, Eric Spoonmore.  Having studied and loved the world of politics, Eric knew early on that he wanted to be part of shaping and supporting a community.  He was always interested in working as a City Manager but the State of Indiana doesn't allow that position to exist.   
 
Eric's journey has taught him that the business sector is the stable foundation of your community, not the government, and how important local voting is within your community. This affects everything from tax dollars, roads, services, not just political standings.  His stories of steering the local community through COVID, while serving on the County Council, and his transition into the Chamber demonstrate that hard work and listening to others really does pay off.
 
While Eric might be a bit disappointed that Mirianda Lambert wouldn't be joining us, even though he was playing her latest music while on vacation, this episode has  passion and humor that you don't want to miss.

The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce held the Community Conversations: Future of Lake Monroe event Friday.

It featured a presentation from Lake Monroe watershed coordinator Maggie Sullivan and a panel discussion featuring on challenges that may impact businesses, tourism and sustainability.
During her presentation, Sullivan discussed the threats facing Lake Monroe and the 2022 Lake Monroe Watershed Management Plan.

“The big thing I wanted to do was give an overview of Lake Monroe and the top issues facing the lake, which are harmful algal blooms, sediment, nutrients and fecal contamination.” Sullivan said in an interview.
She also wanted to discuss the Watershed Management Plan and the steps it outlines for addressing those problems at the source.
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“By making changes up in the watershed so that those contaminants don't get into our water,” Sullivan said.