Business In The 217

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: The Wakery opened downtown a little over two years ago, but owner Elizabeth Wake said the business has not proven to be sustainable, despite a strong public reception and winning several awards.   University of Illinois Springfield has pivoted from plans to open its new “Innovation Center” in a three-story building downtown and now will rent space for the center three blocks east, inside Horace Mann Educators Corp.’s headquarters.   Friday Night Live kicks off in downtown Springfield July 11 and continues for three consecutive Fridays, with extended business hours for food, drinks, entertainment, shopping and family fun at local businesses. The collaboration among downtown businesses and community supporters is intended to bring people downtown to experience all the brick-and-mortar businesses have to offer.   It took nearly two years to find a buyer, but now the new owner of the former Heartland Credit Union building on South Grand Avenue has renovations underway in hopes of securing a tenant. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Tacology 201 was launched as the second version of the popular Mexican restaurant, which also experimented with bar partnerships at one point, but owner James Hamilton has announced that his time in the restaurant business has come to an end.   The planned July 1 opening of The Fountain on Route 66 has been delayed "a few more days," according to owner Tom Hart. The 1950s-themed diner on North Ninth Street is in a building that housed Sonrise Donuts, an iconic Route 66 business, for more than four decades.   A year after beginning construction, Springfield Gymnastics Center is preparing to move into a new facility on the west side that is nearly twice as large as its previous space.   The Village of Jerome is planning to form its first TIF district, which President Mike Lopez says will help address infrastructure issues and provide funds for facade improvement and other business development incentive programs. However, District 186 is opposed, with Superintendent Jennifer Gill noting the district already agreed to not collect additional property taxes generated by Scheels Sports Park over a 20-year period, so the financial hit from a Jerome TIF would amount to a "double whammy." A public hearing on the proposed TIF is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. July 3 at the Jerome Civic Center, 2901 Leonard St. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Heather Burton - Illinois Women in Leadership Trent R. Nelson spoke with Heather Burton about what the organization does, what the ATHENA Leadership Award is, the nominees, the time of the event, plus more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business in the 217: Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance CEO Ryan McCrady - 06/26/25 Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Infrastructure updates across Springfield The recent words of Fed Chair Jerome Powell and what they mean Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Three certified financial planners have joined forces to create Navigator Wealth Strategies, a Springfield-based financial planning firm serving central Illinois.   Coltin Cunningham has launched Alpha Dog Inspections, a business inspired by the seven-year saga of health problems his daughter and family endured.   Jerk Shop Go has been through several changes during the five years the business has been open, but now the Caribbean restaurant is ceasing operations.   217 Pony Shoe Week continues through June 29. Enjoy variations on a Springfield favorite, ranging from savory to sweet, at 14 different locations. Check out 217foodweek.com for the special shoes, prices and hours of service. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Eric Hill - SkillsUSA Illinois Trent R. Nelson spoke with Eric Hill of SkillsUSA Illinois about what the organization does, why they support vocational training in schools alongside traditional education, how the state budget has played out, recent and upcoming events, plus more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: A new entertainment complex and indoor/outdoor food court is under construction in Legacy Pointe.    A former restaurant in a historic Springfield neighborhood has new owners who plan to reopen it with a different focus.   Simplex, one of Springfield’s largest manufacturing companies, has been sold to a Canadian-based company for $28 million.   Friendly Honda of Springfield will hold a groundbreaking ceremony June 20 for a major renovation and expansion of the dealership at 2500 Prairie Crossing Drive. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jill Steiner - YMCA & The Citizens Club of Springfield Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jill Steiner of the YMCA, who will be moderating the Citizens Club of Springfield event on June 27, about the organization, why mental health is so crucial, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jim Watts - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jim Watts of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and why it is so crucial always, and much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Sangamon County officials have solicited proposals from development groups interested in potentially building a new $100 million downtown hotel adjacent to a proposed $93 million expansion of the BOS Center. The nearly $500 million effort to improve the Capitol Complex, including a major renovation of the long-vacant Illinois State Armory, continues to take shape in downtown Springfield. The 250,000-square-foot Armory building is being transformed from a civic center into an executive office building, with plans to move support staff from the governor's office and other state agencies into it upon completion.   Ward 5 Ald. Keisha Purchase will hold a grand opening for her new business, 5th Street Gem, at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11. Learn about the proposed Third Street Corridor through Springfield, planned to be developed following the relocation of the Third Street railroad tracks to the 10th Street rail corridor. A public open house will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, at the Dana-Thomas House. The "Linc" will extend from the Illinois State Fairgrounds to the Interurban/Wabash Trail near Stanford Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard, with the main portion of the greenway connecting to the 3rd Street railroad corridor through the downtown area. In addition to viewing the updated plans for the greenway, guests can enjoy guided tours of the historic Dana-Thomas House, offered every half hour by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources starting at 4:30 p.m., with the last tour beginning at 6:30 p.m. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Infrastructure updates across Springfield Tariffs, the federal government, foreign trade, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Michael Thomas - Express Employment Trent R. Nelson spoke with Express Employment's own Michael Thomas to chat about the organization, what opportunities it can provide folks with, a bit on the current hiring market and job economy, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: The Myers Building in downtown Springfield will celebrate its 100th anniversary in September, and the historic property now has a new owner after three generations of ownership by the Myers family.    The Track Shack has been owned and operated by the same family since 1959, but that is about to change.   The pharmacies in all three of Springfield’s remaining County Market locations, as well as one in Chatham, will permanently close as of June 12.    Cowork Springfield has launched to provide flexible workspaces for small businesses looking for an alternative to working from home or in traditional offices. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: A groundbreaking ceremony was recently held marking the start of a significant project at Woodside and Iron Bridge roads – a major infrastructure investment aimed at reducing traffic congestion and enhancing travel safety in this part of Sangamon County. A new development in the center of Jacksonville will turn dilapidated properties into new single family residences and brownstone-type condominiums. An initial estimate from the Wyndham’s owner that the hotel would be closed for up to 90 days has increased, and adding to the downtown hotel's financial challenges is a lien filed against the property by a Springfield contractor. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Michael Thomas - The Salvation Army Trent R. Nelson spoke with Michael Thomas of the The Salvation Army about what the organization does, why being kind is important at work, the upcoming comedy program, and much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Michael Thomas - CILCSA Trent R. Nelson spoke with Michael Thomas of the Central Illinois Customer Service Association about what the organization does, why being kind is important at work, how to nominate folks for a Wow Award, and much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a little over a year since PNC Bank foreclosed on the former Sangamo Club and so far, there have been no takers to repurpose the downtown property, despite significant price reductions since it was first listed for sale. Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: The Illinois Housing Development Authority has announced the conditional award of more than $50 million in state and federal funding to spur the development of permanent supportive housing throughout Illinois. Of the seven statewide projects slated to receive funding, one is in Springfield and one is in Jacksonville.    Renovations have begun on a downtown building that is slated to become a coffee shop, bakery and wine bar.   Ward 5 Ald. Lakeisha Purchase is putting her money where her mouth is and launching her own business downtown in a newly renovated building after years of encouraging other entrepreneurs to invest in the area. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jim Watts - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jim Watts of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and why it is so crucial always, a bit about the event this past Thursday in Springfield, the different types of blood and much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jim Watts - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jim Watts of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and why it is so crucial always, a bit about the event on Thursday in Springfield, the different types of blood and much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a little over a year since PNC Bank foreclosed on the former Sangamo Club and so far, there have been no takers to repurpose the downtown property, despite significant price reductions since it was first listed for sale. Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: After years of uncertainty over its viability, things are progressing quite nicely with Scheels Sports Park at Legacy Pointe. Now an Indiana businessman wants to add another tourist draw to the complex.     Join SBJ and United Community Bank on Wednesday evening for a reception honoring this year’s Best Places to Work.   The Illinois Product Farmers Market kicks off Thursday, May 15. Stop by The Shed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds from 3:30-7 p.m. and celebrate opening day with fresh, local flavors, live music and family fun. Shop more than 30 vendors featuring farm-fresh produce, meats, handmade goods and specialty treats. Sip on Illinois wine and craft beer and enjoy delicious bites from local favorites.   Friday is the deadline to make nominations for this year’s Forty Under 40 class. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Sangamon County is now home to the largest solar power development east of the Mississippi River. On April 30, Swift Current Energy, a Boston-based firm, held a ribbon-cutting at its Auburn office for the Double Black Diamond solar farm. Harvest Kitchen + Bar held a soft opening in February, but the restaurant in Prairie Crossing has now expanded its menu and operating hours. Potbelly is opening its west-side location on May 13.  The former China Express on Toronto Road won't be vacant for long. Hello Thailand is currently renovating the space and plans to open this summer. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Brent Schwoerer,- Engrained Brewing Co. Trent R. Nelson spoke with the Owner and Founder of Engrained Brewing Co., Brent Schwoerer about his background, how he got into beer and brewing, Scheel Sports Park, the little pickle he and other businesses like his are trying to work through right now, and much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: The new issue of SBJ is out, featuring the 2025 Women of Influence:  June Agama, Dr. Vidya Sundareshan and Monica Walls-Butler.   Brent Schwoerer, owner of Engrained Brewing Co., wants to offer his craft beer at the new Scheels Sports Park across the street from his business. But under current Illinois liquor laws, he would be legally prohibited from doing so due to a strict 200-barrel annual limit on self-distribution. A bill currently being considered by the General Assembly might change that:   Capital City McDonald’s has acquired all 11 stores in Springfield, in addition to five others throughout central Illinois.   217 Taco, Nacho and Margarita Week continues through Sunday, May 4. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo for a whole week. Explore the amazing taco and nacho dishes area chefs have created for these seven days. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jim Watts - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jim Watts of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and why it is so crucial always, but especially in light of the events of Monday, April 28, in Chatham. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Steve Smith - 160 Driving Academy Trent R. Nelson spoke with Steve Smith of 160 Driving Academy regarding driving trucks, getting into the business, some of the pleasure of seeing the country, plus so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Longtime State Journal-Register reporter and columnist Bernie Schoenburg joined Springfield's Morning News Monday to discuss the legacy of Sen. Dick Durbin, what his departure from the Senate means for Springfield, and how the next Senator can focus on downstate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Infrastructure updates across Springfield What are externalities? Tariffs, the federal government, foreign trade, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Josh Flanders - Buzz Bomb Brewing Company Trent R. Nelson spoke with Josh Flanders of Buzz Bomb Brewing Company regarding beer, business, Adams Street reopening, what's to come across the coming days and months, who is playing this Friday at the bar, plus so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Tara Matheson - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Tara Matheson of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and what kind of positive incentive those who give the gift of life can receive across April and the entire new year, plus so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Illinois was approved for $43 million in federal reimbursement funds for two food programs designed to strengthen statewide food systems, but when the Trump administration took office, it informed the state that the remaining federal agriculture reimbursements still owed to Illinois would cease after Jan. 19. Now, two different pending Statehouse bills would encourage Illinois-run institutions to begin purchasing from small local farmers.   Pro Com Services of Illinois, a Springfield-based debt collection company, has been acquired by CACi of St. Ann, Missouri.   A group of five women who are all small business owners with interests on the west side of Springfield are launching a Westside Market that will take place the first Sunday of each month.   Do you know an up-and-coming business leader who deserves recognition? Make a nomination for this year's Forty Under 40 class between now and May 16.   Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Angie Muhs - Citizens Club of Springfield Trent R. Nelson spoke with the Angie Muhs of the Citizens Club of Springfield about the organization, their upcoming chat about the budget with the mayor, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: A Springfield company is asking the city for $2.6 million in TIF revenue to help renovate the long-vacant former AT&T building downtown so it can be rented as office space to house more than 300 government employees.   The Springfield City Council unanimously passed a zoning change on April 15 that would allow for the construction of a housing complex to serve residents with physical and/or mental disabilities.   Wienerschnitzel, a fast-food chain that specializes in hot dogs, is hoping to find a franchisee that will allow the company to expand into Springfield and throughout central Illinois. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Update on the Trade Mission that Ryan recently took part in with Governor JB Pritzker Stock Market Uncertainty New federal jobs report and what the economic signs indicate currently Tariffs, the federal government, foreign trade, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: After a “mortifying” experience with her own daughter, Megan Stoller decided to open Springfield Lice Clinic to help other parents in a similar situation.   The Springfield Airport Authority received a Federal Airport Improvement Grant for multiple projects, including an emergency repair project on a runway. However, the airport has waited more than two years for the state to disperse the federal funds and has paid the contractor $1 million in the meantime.   Nursing home industry officials are urging Illinois lawmakers to increase the rates they receive from the state’s Medicaid system, arguing the current rates are outdated and are forcing many facilities around the state out of business. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jim Watts - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jim Watts of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, how the bank gives back to communities around the area and greater country when they're in trouble, donating blood in general, and what kind of positive incentive those who give the gift of life can receive across April and beyond! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: An update on all of the infrastructural innovations happening across the community State jobs and the impact of state money across our community New federal jobs report and what the economic signs indicate currently Uncertainty, tariffs, the federal government, foreign trade, and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: A budget proposal before Illinois lawmakers would use $500 million to turn some of Illinois' biggest state-owned eyesores into economic development opportunities, including the former developmental centers in Jacksonville and Lincoln.   Cory Brown hopes to use his years of experience in the funeral business to simplify the planning process for grieving families with the launch of his new business, Memorial Tributes by Cory Brown.   Duane Williams and Jaime Estell are opening Fluid, a downtown bar where they say everyone will be welcome.                                The new issue of Springfield Business Journal is out now, which includes a Q&A with the new executive director of Habitat for Humanity, an update on several area nonprofits that lost millions in federal funding for after-school and summer programs, and a profile on two sisters who launched a new business to help kids who struggle with reading. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Melissa Horn - Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Trent R. Nelson spoke with Melissa Horn about how the job fair played out, the golf outing, small business award nomination process, and much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Melissa Horn - Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Trent R. Nelson spoke with Melissa Horn about the upcoming year's job fair, golf outing, small business award nomination and much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: At 85 years old, Betty Salisbury says she’s finally ready to retire and close Iris & Ivy, the boutique she’s operated for decades. The historic building where the business has been located for the past 25 years is under contract to be sold.   It’s been more than a year since Sportsman’s Lounge served its last pork tenderloin, and the building at 229 W. Mason St. is being demolished to make way for a new development.   It’s been nearly two months since four of the Subway locations in Springfield closed, but those restaurants are now under new ownership and will be reopening soon.   Chelsea Ziebler launched Ta Da Catering three years ago, and the business is now expanding to include a brick-and-mortar location with additional offerings.   Are you looking for new employment, including summer, seasonal or part-time work? Don't miss the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Job Fair on Tuesday, March 25, from 4-6 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Springfield.   Meet employers looking for talent and explore job opportunities.   Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: An asset purchase agreement filed with the Federal Communications Commission outlines Sinclair Television Group’s plan to sell five of its stations to Rincon Broadcasting Group for $29.4 million.   The former fire station at the intersection of Chatham Road and Monroe Street has been vacant for nearly a year, but if things go according to plan it will soon be the headquarters for a Springfield-based property management company.   The owner of Izumi Rotary & Bar, Springfield’s first conveyer-belt-style restaurant, says he wants to bring a new experience to the area.   Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: An update on all of the infrastructural innovations happening across the community State jobs and the impact of state money across our community New federal jobs report and what the economic signs indicate currently Uncertainty, tariffs, the federal government, foreign trade and more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Eric Hill & Emma Belsy - SkillsUSA Illinois Trent R. Nelson spoke with Eric Hill and Emma Belsy of SkillsUSA Illinois about what the organization does, why they support vocational training in schools alongside traditional education, how Emma has enjoyed her time, plus more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Michael Thomas - CILCSA Trent R. Nelson spoke with Michael Thomas of the Central Illinois Customer Service Association about what the organization does, why being kind is important at work, how to nominate folks for a Wow Award, and much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Michael Thomas - Express Employment Professionals Trent R. Nelson spoke with Michael Thomas of Express about what the organization does, how to get a job in today's job market, what's available right now, plus more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Two franchisees for Cousins Maine Lobster are establishing a presence in central Illinois to address what they believe is a demand for quality seafood here.   Café Moxo will reopen in its new location on Saturday, March 8.   The Railyard will be reopening this spring with new management and new participants. Tim and Emily Lewis, who are taking over operations, shared details of three additional food businesses that will be occupying the shipping containers:   Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Nick Gentile - RISE Springfield Trent R. Nelson spoke with Nick Gentile of RISE Springfield about what the organization does, why it's important to be a part of your local community, local events, plus more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Tara Matheson - ImpactLife Trent R. Nelson spoke with Tara Matheson of ImpactLife about the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and what kind of positive incentive those who give the gift of life can receive across March and the entire new year, plus so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Michelle Ownbey, publisher of the Springfield Business Journal and Illinois Times, about the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Area residents were holding out hope that the Joann fabrics store in Springfield would survive the retailer's planned closures, but the company announced Feb. 24 that it will close all of its 831 stores nationwide.   The former Alexander’s property has been purchased by two area business owners, who said they believe the corner has a lot of potential.   Do you know an outstanding woman who deserves recognition? Make a nomination by Friday, March 7, for this year’s Women of Influence, sponsored by Springfield Business Journal and Security Bank.   The March issue of Springfield Business Journal is out now, featuring the latest in residential real estate trends.   Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newslett See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with CEO, and President Ryan McCrady, for their bi-weekly chat concerning the latest happenings in the Springfield business community and all of the relevant bits fit for the greater community to learn about. Topics Discussed In This Interview: Railroad relocation, the Pillsbury Mill, and more north-end innovations Amazon and Lays warehouse updates The Old State Capitol, and all about Downtown Springfield's infrastructural innovations Legacy Pointe and the hotels down south Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.