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:

• Val Yazell, the director of the city of Springfield's Office of Planning and Economic Development, will retire on Dec. 31.

   

• The former RTD Motorsports building on North Dirksen Parkway has been vacant since the business relocated in 2016, but it is now being remodeled for a new company coming to Springfield.

   

• Bloom Hospitality & Catering has opened a catering kitchen at 1012 W. Iles Ave., just off Macarthur Boulevard in Springfield.

   

• The Senate recently passed legislation known as the Dignity in Pay Act on a bipartisan vote, sending it to Gov. JB Pritzker for signature. It would prohibit businesses and nonprofit organizations from paying workers with disabilities less than minimum wage.

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