The Biz Week That Was: Bid to revive horse racing, a new Whole Foods, and auto racing simulator studio opens

Thoroughbred horses are still running at Hawthorne Race Course as the old grandstand is prepared for the addition of slots and table games. But the racino project has stalled amid financing woes at the Stickney track. Courtesy of Illinois Gaming Board, 2023

Senator tries last-ditch push to boost horse racing industry in Illinois

City officials from Decatur and Illinois horse racing advocates joined an effort this week by Sen. Patrick Joyce, an Essex Democrat, to push lawmakers to approve legislation intended to revive a long-stalled south suburban “racino” and open a path for a new racetrack and gaming facility in Decatur.

St. Charles Whole Foods store set to open June 25

Whole Foods Market is set to open its doors to customers in St. Charles for the first time Wednesday, June 25. An