Roy Holand, former state legislator: "For those citizens bold enough to offer public comments, a more respectful and informational exchange could occur with the BOE adoption of the hearing policy used by the local city council and state legislature."

Guest columnist Richard Baker: "Marketwise, I don’t expect any major issues this year, but staying invested according to your risk tolerance is wise in case of unexpected turbulence."

Guest columnist Nia Howard invites area men to the ballpark to hear from a former MLB player about the importance of mental health care.

Connected to Watkins Elementary School is a new storm shelter now under construction.

Ask an older worker in the office what kind of attire they began their career in, and the picture that emerges is likely to be very different than today’s.

Cedars Family Restaurant has cooked up comfort for over three decades.

Newsmakers in the areas of accounting, chambers of commerce, health care, marketing and nonprofit.

Utah-based gourmet cookie chain Crumbl Cookies opened its first Springfield shop; interior design business Branson Upstaging LLC relocated; and Lauren Ashley Dance Center LLC added a second location.

Plan set to transform 7.5 acres in north Springfield.

Iron at the Crossroads seeks businesses to rent shipping containers.

History Museum showcases potential of wayfinding app.

Abacus CPAs gets national ranking as fast-growing company.

SBJ interviews the CEO of Creative Modular Construction LLC.

Executive Editor Christine Temple discusses homebuilding with local executives.

The goal of the Southern Hills project is to enhance the appearance and functionality of the shopping center by upgrading various elements, such as lighting, storefronts, entrances, roofing and fascia.

The complex consists of four buildings, each with four stories, and 48 units per building, for a total of 192 units, plus a 1,500-square-foot community and fitness room.