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: Springfield Mass Transit District is receiving a $17.8 million federal grant to purchase 12 hybrid buses that are powered by a combination of diesel fuel and batteries, along with seven buses that burn natural gas. The move is being made in anticipation of future regulations that may eventually force transit districts to eliminate all emissions. Kevin England, who assumed the title of Memorial Health president July 1, is stepping down from the role due to "an unexpected and recent health issue," according to a statement from a Memorial spokesperson. Springfield will soon have a new option for soul food. Jenita Harris is opening 710 Rippy G’s in the food court at White Oaks Mall on Saturday, July 27. The Springfield Maid-Rite is planning a 100th Birthday Bash on Saturday, July 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Owners of classic cars are invited to attend, with no pre-registration or entry fee required. There will also be music and throwback food and drink prices. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Casey Claypool - Docs Just Off 66 Trent R. Nelson spoke with the owner of Docs Just off 66 Casey Claypool regarding the historic origins of the spot. the food innovations made since it was purchased by Casey, ice cream, Route 66, and so much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Jay Shanlee - Conn's Hospitality Group Trent R. Nelson spoke with Jay Shanlee of Conn's Hospitality Group regarding the food innovations from across Springfield, the Adams Street fire and recovery effort thus far, where to get some good BBQ and so much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

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: Twelve residents, seven businesses and one nonprofit affected by the June 19 fire at 413 E Adams St. in downtown Springfield have received checks from the INB Benefit for the Businesses Affected by the Adams Family Fire fund. Springfield Gymnastics Center has a new facility under construction on the west side, but in the meantime, the business will operate out of the former Shop ‘n Save property on the corner of Wabash Avenue and Chatham Road. Information about the tragic death of Aviatori Coffeehouse owner Juliana Turchetti in Montana. The Springfield City Council has approved zoning that would allow for construction of a distribution center for Frito Lay. Employing 150 to 200 full-time workers at a warehouse the size of almost four football fields, it would be built along Interstate 55 near the Chatham exit. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Ryan McCrady, 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: Progress Of Railway and Legacy Pointe Projects Local Small Businesses and the Adams Street Fire from Juneteenth New Warehouse on the outskirts of Springfield General Economics and Infrastructure So much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

On 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 of IWIL regarding the organization, its history and goals, plus a bit about the ATHENA Award, this year's nominees. and the upcoming gala that the group is putting on! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

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 restaurant is under construction on the west side of Springfield, with additional space available for a second restaurant or retail use. Shangri-La Dispensaries will hold a grand opening at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 11, for its new Springfield dispensary. Shangri-La, 3128 S. Dirksen Parkway, represents the company’s first entrance into Illinois’ adult-use cannabis market. The event will include area vendors, food trucks and live music. Wildflowers and Barley is holding a grand opening and vendor fair from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, July 12. The first $10,000 raised by the community for the businesses and residents affected by the fire at 413 E Adams Street on June 19 will be disbursed next week. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Ryan McCrady, 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: Progress Of Railway and Legacy Pointe Projects Local Small Businesses and the Adams Street Fire from Juneteenth Liquor License Resolutions General Economics and Infrastructure So much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

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: Terrie Malmstrom has been in the pet grooming business for years, but now she has a new venture called Doggie Stylez. The Neuhoff Media radio stations in Springfield and Bloomington have been sold to Woodward Communications, Inc., the final sale of the divestiture as part of a strategic decision by the Neuhoff family to exit the broadcast industry after nearly 70 years. Gov. JB Pritzker has given final approval to a plan to bolster the state’s tech industry, including an incentives package – backed by $500 million in the state budget – aimed at making Illinois the nation’s leader in quantum computing. For the first time, there is now a long-term master plan for the Illinois State Fairgrounds. It identifies opportunities to increase year-round events, attendance and economic impact.Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Carlos Ortega - DSI Trent R. Nelson spoke with Carlos Ortega of Downtown Springfield Inc., concerning the joy of being kind to others, developing Downtown Springfield, what Carlos has done over the last four months, how he plans to innovate DSI in his new position across the future, and so much more. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

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 concerning the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and what kind of positive incentive those who give the gift of life can receive all February long! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

Trent R. Nelson spoke with Eric Hill of SkillsUSA Illinois before he took kids from across Illinois to Atlanta, Georgia, for another competition; Trent and Eric spoke about what the organization does, what it would like to do, its general purpose, who competition is great for educating kids and a whole lot more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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: Despite the June 19 fire that forced Café Moxo to close indefinitely, owner Mark Forinash said the restaurant’s 18 employees still have a job, although their duties will change for the time being. Magnolia Lane Home Decor and More is preparing to relocate again, this time to Chatham. Join Central Illinois Customer Service Association, Local First Springfield and the Chatham Area Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, June 27, for Networking on the Green from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Panther Creek Country Club during the Memorial Health Championship. You can also receive a free one-day pass to the Memorial Health Golf Championship (June 27-30) at Panther Creek Country Club, courtesy of Visit Springfield. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Ryan McCrady, 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: A New Logistics Center Possibly Coming To Town Progress Of Railway and Legacy Pointe Projects Local Small Businesses Liquor Licenses Economics So much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Robert Kerr of the UIS Innovation Center in Downtown Springfield about what the organization does, what the future of downtown holds for the community, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

Trent R. Nelson spoke with Buzz Bomb Brewing Company's Josh Flanders before the midweek fire on Adams Street; they talked about beer, working together as a downtown community, the Adam's Street Bar Crawl, and a whole lot more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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 Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Small Business Awards Luncheon on June 18. The event recognized four outstanding community entrepreneurs in the following categories: Not-For-Profit Director of the Year: Margaret Ann Jessup, Wooden It Be Lovely. New & Emerging Business Owner of the Year: Ashley Striplin, Dabble Small Business Owner of the Year: Fran Abbott & Shannon McAuley, Scoop Du Jour Lifetime Award – Business Owner of the Year: Richard Levi, Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc. Aunt Lou’s Soul Food is opening Friday, more than a year after Corey Dickerson first announced he was teaming up with Smarjesse Taylor to bring “modern soul food with a classy touch” to downtown. Springfield Clinic will hold a ribbon cutting at noon on Monday, June 24, to celebrate the relocation of the endocrinology and nephrology teams to a newly renovated facility at 401 E. Carpenter Street. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Steve Schoepfel - the managing director of the Sangamon Mass Transit District about what the organization does, their new buses, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Ryan McCrady, 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: A New Logistics Center Possibly Coming To Town Progress Of Railway and Legacy Pointe Projects Local Small Businesses Economics So much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.

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: Saucy Rice Vietnamese Flavors has closed, but the space on Toronto Road won’t be vacant for long. The Feed Store, a downtown staple for decades, has closed again for the second time since 2020. The Grand Lodge of Illinois A.F. & A.M. has purchased a building on Wabash Avenue to serve as a new headquarters for freemasons statewide. A bill recently passed by the Illinois General Assembly increases the likelihood a proposed $93 million expansion of Springfield's convention center will become reality, according to state Rep. Mike Coffey, R-Springfield. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Travis Blaney of Two Men and a Truck about what the organization does and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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: Wednesday was the last day of operations for Twisted Fork, but not necessarily the last chance to enjoy its signature dishes. A food truck is already in the works, and the owners said they haven’t ruled out reopening down the road in a different location. Fairgrounds Café has opened at the site of the former Jungle Jim’s Café on Peoria Road. Indiya's Consignment Boutique is opening soon in the Capital City Shopping Center: Construction of a 136-unit, market-rate apartment complex in downtown Springfield will commence in the fall, according to the New York company spearheading the almost $29 million project. The June issue of SBJ is out now, featuring a Q&A with Bob Sibert, the third-generation president of Bound To Stay Bound Books. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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 distribution center employing 150 to 200 full-time workers at a warehouse the size of almost four football fields would be built along Interstate 55 near the Chatham exit, based on a proposal Springfield zoning officials will consider June 20. Owners Brian and Melissa Reilly are expanding Cured Catering again, this time by building a new 10,000-square-foot facility. Structural problems have festered for years at Springfield's tallest apartment building, but court action to fix at least one of the issues at Lincoln Tower Apartments could be coming in the next few months. Both the city of Springfield and the adjacent property owner have filed lawsuits trying to force the owner to make repairs: After losing more than 9% of its population in recent years, the Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation is offering $5,000 and other incentives to professionals willing to relocate to the community. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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: Charro Mexican Restaurant opened Monday at 2500 Sunrise Dr., just off South Dirksen Parkway. After getting her start at the Old Capitol Farmers Market, Alli Donaldson is transitioning Golden Hour Bake House to a brick-and-mortar location downtown that will offer an expanded menu. Residents of the Val-E-Vue subdivision near Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport say they are relieved the airport backed down on a plan to change about 92 acres from residential to industrial zoning. However, the airport is moving forward with its overall request to rezone 1,089 acres of land to help facilitate future development. Springfield Business Journal and United Community Bank invite the business community to attend this year's Best Places to Work reception and awards ceremony on Thursday, May 23. The event will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. at United Community Bank, 1900 W. Iles Ave. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Rachel Shea of Family Service Center about what the organization does, its upcoming fundraiser, how you can participate and contribute to the organization and the greater discussion, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Scott Dahl of Visit Springfield about what the organization does, its upcoming events at the Citizens Club of Springfield, how you can participate and contribute to the organizations and the discussion on tourism, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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: Springfield’s iconic Ice Deli has new owners and a new look. Ace Retail Holdings is acquiring Bishop Ace Hardware, a 13-store chain in central Illinois. Construction crews and Illinois State Fair staff are working to finish up renovations to the grounds as the countdown to the 2024 fair continues, with a $58 million investment intended to help address years of deferred maintenance. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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: Yellow Bird Coffee House has new ownership, but patrons shouldn’t expect any major changes. Coble Animal Hospital has new ownership Family Dollar is closing two of its four Springfield stores as part of nationwide cutbacks for the discount retailer. Do you know an outstanding young professional who deserves to be recognized? Make a nomination for this year's class of Forty Under 40: Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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: WILD Canine Rescue plans to open an upscale thrift store on North Dirksen Parkway to help support the organization's mission: Join Downtown Springfield, Inc. for a ribbon cutting at The Cats' Pyjamas Cat Cafe on Thursday, May 2, at 2 p.m. Crave Cookies is coming to Springfield, becoming the second gourmet cookie company to open a franchise in the capital city this year. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo for a whole week, April 29-May 5, and explore the amazing taco and nacho dishes area chefs have created at these participating restaurants. Many locations will also offer signature Tequila Herradura or el Jimador margaritas. Find more details at 217FoodWeek.com and download your 217 Taco, Nacho & Margarita Week passport to plan your food journey and for a chance to win gift cards from local restaurants. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Amy Beadle about what the organization does, its upcoming events, how you can participate and nominate, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

On this episode of Full Disclosure, Trent R. Nelson speaks with the CEO and President of the Better Government Association, David Greising, concerning Governor JB Pritzker, immigration, libraries, Tier 2, and so much more! Don't forget to subscribe and share; don't forget to keep shining that light on Illinois state government!

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 Sangamon County judge has issued an order to vacate to the parent company for MOD Pizza in response to an eviction complaint filed by the property owner. The New York investors who own Olde Towne Apartments are more than $100,000 behind on water and electric bills, and the city of Springfield has said CWLP will shut off service May 1, displacing the remaining tenants, if the past utility bills are not paid. Brian Barstead has announced plans to retire within the next month and has transferred ownership of his Ameriprise franchise to Jennifer Sylvia. The May issue of SBJ is out today and includes profiles on this year’s Women of Influence: Jennifer Bettis, Kayla Edwards and Ava McPike-Carpenter. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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 wait is almost over for fans of Wm. Van's Coffee House, with the relocated and revamped coffee shop scheduled to open at 7 a.m. on Friday, April 19, in Vinegar Hill Mall. The Railyard has reopened for the season, following a brief opening last November. A greenhouse in Scott County, fifty miles west of Springfield, is drawing national attention for a self-serve operation in a small building that is addressing the issue of rural American food deserts. Doubling the BOS Center's size would result in a similar increase in conventions coming to the capital city, and construction of a new 300-bed hotel adjacent to the center is needed, according to a recently completed feasibility study of the potential impact of a newly formed tourism improvement district on downtown Springfield. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with the Executive Director of the Springfield Area Arts Council, Bella Szabo, about art, creativity, getting involved in the community, what the organization does, local grants, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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: Your Corner Office and Synergetic Solutions will be relocating from downtown to a new west-side location on the corner of Monroe Street and Chatham Road. Aviatori Coffeehouse has closed, but the business is still for sale and the owner hopes to find someone to carry on the aviation-themed coffee shop. Karen Conn, president of Conn’s Hospitality Group in Springfield, spoke at a news conference Wednesday at the Capitol. She said she will have to raise prices and cut employees’ hours and benefits if the state eliminates a tipped wage credit: Citing an increase in violent incidents and concerns for public safety, the Sangamon County Board voted Monday to eliminate 3 a.m. liquor licenses for bars. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with the Central Illinois and Springfield Phoenix Center's own Dr. Jonna Cooley about PRIDE 2024, other upcoming events, the past, the future, drag, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Crafted Stag's owner. Grant Hammer, regarding the grand opening, what the store will have to offer, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Chief Storyteller Jaime Toole regarding what the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes is set for this upcoming season, new innovations, promotions, deals, fun, and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Visit Springfield's own Amy Beadle regarding how March was, and what the community has to look forward to this April.  Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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 Crafted Stag Supply, a new specialty business catering to men, is scheduled to open Saturday, April 6, on Springfield’s west side. It's Scrapicated LLC, a galvanized steel home décor company, is consolidating into one location and expanding its hours of operation. A local hotel ownership group plans to break ground next month on a Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott at Legacy Pointe. Lutheran Senior Services and Diakon have signed an agreement to bring senior living operations and four life plan communities under LSS, which will make it one of the largest nonprofit senior living organization in the country.. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Executive Director Eric Hill of SkillsUSA Illinois and Trinity Muszynski regarding what the organization wishes to do provide the community of Illinois with, why job training is so important, recaps of past events as well as additional information on upcoming events and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can find new episodes on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts!

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: Potbelly Sandwich Shop opened its first Springfield location on March 26 inside the Memorial Learning Center, 228 W. Miller St. The Memorial Health Board of Directors has approved a succession plan that includes Kevin England becoming Memorial Health president, effective July 1. A year from now, Dominic Watson expects to open a shared kitchen and culinary incubator for dozens of emerging minority-owned businesses in a 30,000-square-foot building at 11th Street and South Grand Avenue East. New issue of SBJ is out today, focuses on nonprofits, associations and education Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Heather Briggs - Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Trent R. Nelson spoke with Heather Briggs of BCBSIL regarding their upcoming Saturday morning event, why staying on top of your health is so critical, and how to learn more and get involved too! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge; you can find us on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts from!

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: Harrison Gray - Citizens Club of Springfield Trent R. Nelson spoke with Harrison Gray regarding their upcoming Friday morning event, why discussion is so critical, about Gen Z and so much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge; you can find us on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts from!

On this episode of Business in the 217, Trent R. Nelson talks with: April Poole & Brian Sylvester - CORAL Trent R. Nelson spoke with April Poole & Brian Sylvester of CORAL concerning their upcoming gala event, the joy of being kind to others, and how you can be an ally to those that require it the most! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge; you can find us on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts from!

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: Charro Mexican Restaurant, a family-owned business based in Chesterfield, Missouri, with additional locations in Taylorville and Decatur, is coming to Springfield. Brezie's Roasted Beans is a new addition to the Springfield area's growing coffee scene, but it also offers breakfast and lunch options, plus activities for kids. Less than a year after closing its brick-and-mortar store, Alinda Hale has merged Eye Candy Boutique with Deep South Pout, an online boutique based in Mississippi. After 149 years and four generations, the family-owned Armbruster Manufacturing Company is closing its doors. The facility has been sold to a national franchise business. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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: Loukinens' on 4th has reopened after closing suddenly in mid-February, but it's not clear how long it will be able to continue operations. The property is no longer listed for sale, but a foreclosure suit is pending. Potter Drug is planning to open a west-side location this summer. AR Luxury Event Spaces is scheduled to open in Springfield on April 13. Women Entrepreneurs of Central Illinois will hold its 4th annual Women’s Business Showcase event on Wednesday, March 6, from 4:30-7 p.m. at Crowne Plaza Springfield. Subscribe to the Springfield Business Journal and their weekly Biz Bites email newsletter.

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 recent and upcoming innovations, as well as opportunities that businesses and individuals across the community might benefit from. Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge. You can download and subscribe to more great interviews like this on Apple, Spotify, Google, and anywhere else you get your podcasts from.

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 concerning the joy of being kind to others, donating blood, and what kind of positive incentive those who give the gift of life can receive all March long! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge; you can find us on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you get your podcasts from!

Trent R. Nelson speaks with Ryan McCrady, 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: CWLP rate hikes City of Springfield budgets More on logistics Centers Local Small Businesses Dredging Lake Springfield Economics So much more! Share and subscribe, and ensure that your neighbors and loved ones have the gift of knowledge.