Open for Business: Hamra Enterprises

Hamra Enterprises moved Oct. 28 into Hamra Plaza, 1885 S. Ingram Mill Road. The $60 million real estate development, hospitality and restaurant conglomerate owns and operates Wendy's restaurants in Missouri, Panera Bread Bakery-Cafs in Chicago and Boston, and Baymont Inns and Suites in Missouri and Texas. The $3 million Hamra Plaza also houses the law offices of Sam Hamra (pictured), founder of the company. Hamra said 12,000 square feet on the second floor is available for lease. Hamra Enterprises moved from Corporate Centre.

Russo's Caf and Market opened Nov. 18 at 3014 S. National Ave. Restaurateurs Nick and Jenny Russo own and operate the Italian eatery, which features a sandwich, soup and pasta menu, as well as catering. Nick Russo has 28 years of restaurant ownership experience, but has been removed from the industry for two years "to focus on my family and teaching and coaching." Russo will continue to teach English and journalism, and coach cross country at Springfield Catholic High School. The Russos started Ebbet's Field, but sold it. The menu at Russo's Caf and Market is not traditional: "I come in and cook five or six different entrees, similar to what I would cook for my family," Russo said. It is open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Gordon Elliott of Elliot Lodging changed the flagship of the Ramada Inn I-44, 2820 N. Glenstone Ave., to a Lamplighter Inn & Suites. Lamplighter Convention Center North is the second of its kind. Elliott acquired Lamplighter Inn & Suites South three years ago. He hopes to create a chain with the Lamplighter name. "As we go into a town that is certainly an option," he said. The Lamplighter North has 129 rooms and 8,000 square feet of meeting space. Elliott named Jeff Ford manager.