Michelle Ownbey

Troxell has acquired Denton-Merritt-Dycus Insurance Agency, a Springfield-based agency that has served the community since 1960. “This acquisition is part of a broader effort to grow intentionally while staying true to who we are,” said Todd Sowle, president and CEO of Troxell. “Denton-Merritt-Dycus has built something special over the past 60 years. Their commitment to […]

A historic property that recently served as the administrative headquarters for Conn’s Hospitality Group is now the Springfield office for a Chicago-based nonprofit. The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation acquired the property at 625 S. Second St., known as the Dewitt Wickliffe Smith Mansion, as of June 1. It was purchased for $245,000, according to […]

Haxel Law has expanded its downtown Springfield office and added two additional attorneys. Located at 310 Adams St., the firm’s office now includes adjoining space within its existing downtown location. Founding attorney Martin Haxel said the expansion strengthens the firm’s operational capacity while contributing to sustained use of downtown office space. “The expansion of our […]

The Smokey Bones in Springfield closed abruptly Tuesday, although the restaurant may not stay shuttered for long. A sign posted on the door at 2660 S. Dirksen Parkway reads: “This location is permanently closed. Smokey Bones has ceased operations at all locations. We thank you for all the years of letting us serve you.” However, […]

Knob Hill Landscape Company has acquired Designer Landscapes, marking the second time the business has recently changed hands. Patty Brockmeyer founded Designer Landscapes in 1985 and operated the Farmersville-based business for four decades before selling it in September to Bill Wells, who also owns Illinois Paving. “Since then, he’s had some health issues and made […]

Long John Silver’s held a ribbon cutting April 17 for its new location at 3112 S. Dirksen Parkway in Springfield. The newly constructed restaurant with a modern design was built between Hilton Garden Inn and Shangri-La Dispensary, near LJS’s previous location in the Capital City Shopping Center. A $1 million building permit was filed in […]

The Creek Pub & Grill in Chatham has completed a significant expansion. Owner Perry McAtee said he removed the wall behind the bar and remodeled the adjacent area, adding about 2,200 square feet to allow for increased offerings. The new space, known as “The Creek-Easy,” will be reserved for 21 and over to allow for […]

Just over a year after it reopened under new ownership, the downtown Subway has closed again. In March 2025, ECI Investments purchased six of the eight locations owned by longtime operator Vern Evans after he retired following 25 years in the central Illinois market. Four of those acquisitions were in Springfield: 607 E. Adams St. […]