​The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that Kaytee Lorentzen, a dedicated professional with an extensive background in marketing and communications, has been named the new Director of Communications & Events. In her expanded role, Lorentzen will focus on executing strategies that will strengthen the Chamber's visibility, influence, and impact in the community. 

“Taking on the role of Director of Communications & Events is an exciting step for me," said Lorentzen. "I’m committed to building on what we’ve achieved at the Chamber, both in our events and our outreach. We have a great foundation, and I’m eager to contribute to our next chapter."

Since joining the Chamber in 2021, Lorentzen served as the Marketing & Communications Coordinator then as Marketing & Communications Manager earlier this year. Prior to working at the Chamber, her photography business was a Chamber member from 2016-2020. Lorentzen holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism with a concentration in photography from Ball State University. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in communications at Purdue University and expected to graduate this spring with a concentration in public relations and advertising along with a certificate in strategic communications management. In addition, Lorentzen is a graduate of the Indiana Chamber Executives Association’s Hoosier Chamber Academy.

“Kaytee Lorentzen has distinguished herself as a high-impact and valued resource to the Chamber and the members we serve,” said Chamber President and CEO Eric Spoonmore. “She is the perfect fit to lead the Chamber’s strategic communications, marketing initiatives, and event performance.” 
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Lorentzen’s new assignment with the Chamber is effective September 1st. 

The City of Bloomington’s Board of Public Works has approved a resolution seeking to prevent camping and other obstructions in streets, sidewalks and roads.

The board’s three members unanimously passed the resolution Tuesday, paving the way for the city council to modify the city code to include such language.

Adam Wason, the city’s public works director, said there have been instances of people blocking the sidewalks with their belongings.
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“There was no way that the public right-of-way at that point in time was ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant,” Wason said. “There was no way it was passable by somebody simply walking by.”

The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce announced the individuals and organizations that will be honored at this year’s 108th Annual Meeting & Community Awards celebration. The award ceremony will be held on Thursday, September 7th, 2023, at the Monroe Convention Center. At the Annual Meeting, the Chamber’s President & CEO, Eric Spoonmore, will provide a year in review, highlighting accomplishments and member news with attendees, as well as sharing future plans. The Chamber will also recognize and honor several members who have been nominated for a variety of awards.
 
This year’s awards and winners are:

• New Business of the Year: Pristine House Cleaning
  • Recognizes a business or organization that has existed for less than five years.
• Business of the Year: Duke Energy
  • Recognizes a business or organization that has existed for five years or more.
• Community Anchor: Middle Way House
  • Recognizes a business or organization that has contributed positively to the local community over a sustained period.
• 4 Under 40 Awards: Marisa Churchill – Girls, Inc. of Monroe County, Sandra McGow – Bell Trace Senior Living Community, Esthela O’Neill – Ivy Tech Community College, and Michele Suttile – Sincerely Yours Weddings & Premier Events
  • Recognizes young professionals that make a significant impact within their organization through their leadership and work ethic, while also giving back to the community through civic involvement.
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Christopher Schrader – Schrader and Associates
  • Recognizes individuals who have had an immeasurable impact on our community over a sustained period.

“The Chamber is delighted to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of these businesses and individuals,” said Eric Spoonmore, President & CEO of The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. “Their notable contributions to our community represent the best of Bloomington and Monroe County and exemplify the core values of the Chamber.”

Along with the annual meeting and awards presentation, the ceremonial "Passing of the Gavel" will occur as the outgoing board chair steps aside for the new leadership, and both individuals address the crowd.

The 108th Annual Meeting & Community Awards celebration will include time to network among attendees prior to the annual meeting and awards presentation. The event will begin at 11:00a.m. and conclude at 1:00p.m. For more information about the 108th Annual Meeting & Community Awards, contact The Chamber at (812) 336‐3681 or visit The Chamber’s website at ChamberBloomington.org.