The state of Illinois employs more than 76,000 people, the governor’s office has 157 staff members and every senator and representative has several staff members. I assume most of these people have no idea what it is like to run a small business, but they love to pile on the requirements for those of you […]
Newsletter – This Month SBJ
Ginna’s Cafe
I’ve been to SCHEELS, and knew that somewhere in the back of my mind the store served soda, coffee and fudge. What I didn’t know is that Ginna’s Café & Coffee at SCHEELS offers a full menu. Indeed, I visited Ginna’s Café & Coffee with a group of friends that goes out for chili once […]
Seniors invest in social capital
Sarah Phalen, president and CEO of INB, tells the story of her mom, Lora Murgatroyd, who felt she could improve the upkeep of the flowers and bushes in her home community of Sherman. “She started daily watering and weeding because she saw the need,” says Phalen. “She eventually spearheaded a new group called Making Our […]
The popularity of pickleball
The explosion of interest in pickleball in Springfield could see the number of available courts nearly double in the foreseeable future, with the opening of the Premier Pickleball Center late this fall and the possibility of adding a dozen or more outdoor courts at Centennial Park. “Springfield’s biggest need has been indoor play space, particularly […]
Who’s in charge of mom and dad?
Unfortunately, something we see frequently in our law practice are disagreements among siblings over who is in charge of caring for mom and/or dad when they become incapable of caring for themselves. Who decides who is in charge, and what limits are there for that person? Mom and dad can decide for themselves who will […]
Illinois College partners with Memorial Health to offer full-tuition scholarships for nursing students
In a transformative move to address the increasing demand for highly skilled nurses in the health care industry, Illinois College has joined forces with Memorial Health to offer full-tuition scholarships for aspiring nursing students. This pioneering initiative, comprising 50 scholarships annually, is a collaborative effort between Illinois College and Memorial Health to support nursing education. […]
The James Project provides homes, services for foster families
According to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, nearly 600 youths are in foster care in Sangamon County. Among resources and assistance for foster families in the county is The James Project. Its mission is to recruit and support dedicated foster parents in the community through the provision of homes and services. According […]
Become a better influencer with customer-focused selling
Wouldn’t it be nice if the boss always approved our big projects or customers bought whatever it is we’re selling, whether a product, solution or idea? Of course, a business owner has to get comfortable selling, but many of us just need buy-in or approval from peers, employees, company executives or other stakeholders. Decision-making is […]
15 Under Fifteen
This is the 21st year that Springfield Business Journal has partnered with United Community Bank to recognize 15 outstanding small businesses in the local area. To qualify, a business must be located in Sangamon or Morgan county, have been open for at least two years and have 15 or fewer full-time employees. A business is […]
Lincoln Library to host lunch and learn workshops for business owners
Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA) is partnering with the Lincoln Library to host a series of lunch and learn workshops throughout the summer, with the first workshop happening on May 10. The four-part series called “Leveraging the Library: Grow Your Business by Maximizing Library Resources” will showcase the numerous tools and resources available for entrepreneurs […]
2023 Best Places to Work reception and awards ceremony
The business community is invited to a reception and award ceremony honoring the 2023 Best Places to Work, sponsored by United Community Bank and Springfield Business Journal: American Metals Supply, Conn’s Hospitality Group, Inc., Kuhn & Trello Consulting Engineers, MJ Kellner and KEB. Join us on Thursday, May 18, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the […]
Keeping it in the family
Sheehan & Sheehan is a third-generation law firm By Scott Reeder For Sheehan & Sheehan, Lawyers P.C., law is a family affair. “I can’t think of any other law practice in Springfield that has lasted three generations, yet alone one that has had two sets of brothers from each generation,” said retired Sangamon County associate […]

