Sean Crawford talks with Tim Landis of the State Journal-Register.
This week:
* Retail sales trends: Springfield chamber analysis showed retail spending in Sangamon County at three year low in 2016 (fell 1.3 percent) but was not across the board. Grocery spending up 18 percent; general merchandise down 12.6 percent; perhaps further evidence of shift toward online sales, according to the city.
* Kidzeum of Health and Science on schedule for June 2018 opening in 400 block of East Adams downtown; supporters have raised $6.9 million in nine years; renovation work well along.
* Farm economy: Is getting better, or maybe not. USDA forecasting first increase in farm income in three years; farmers and some ag economists are not so sure; harvest update.
