Attorney Stephen F. Aton: "Each situation is different and can only be evaluated as part of an overall plan for your estate."

Springfield Contractors Association's Megan Herzog: "While the importance of preparing physically for extreme weather is important, contractors are responsible to find ways to focus on employees and project deadlines. Weather days are expected in the industry, but contractors must make a point to put employees first."

Campaignium's Ryan Simmons: "The imminent arrival of SGE represents not just a challenge but an opportunity – to refine our SEO strategies, embrace new technologies and prepare for a future where AI is integral in how we search for information online."

Springfield Sports Commission Executive Director Lance Kettering: "Promoting a city or region as a destination for sports requires commitment, consistency and intentional marketing. By investing in these areas and building upon relationships in the sports industry, Springfield can be most successful in being a top destination for sports."

Alliant Insurance Services' Hunter Johnson: "As we wait this current cycle out, insureds can focus on presenting themselves as a desirable risk for insurance carriers to underwrite – working with their strategic partners to implement tools and strategies to help prevent controllable liability losses."

Ryan J. Hurn of New York Life Insurance and NYLife Securities: "Many professionals who have not been provided adequate information may miss out on opportunities to protect their business, create higher tax efficiency and increase compensation in retirement."

Codistac owner Heather Noggle makes the case for WFH.

Ollis/Akers/Arney's Jeff Eiserman: "Nothing is perfect in preventing cybercrime, but starting with these will help protect the future of your business."

Custom Creations Landscaping & Lawn's Kevin Runyon: "As we navigate Springfield’s dynamic construction sector, it’s clear that landscaping is more than just an add-on."

Springfield Contractors Association's Megan Herzog: "Investing in all types of construction impacts our local economy significantly."

Arvest Bank's Andrea Sitzes: "Business owners should be mandating a higher level of service and a banking partner that understands the economy with vision to assess, plan and pivot together to accomplish business objectives."

Consultant and author Marlene Chism: "According to a recent report by Gallup, employee well-being affects the number of employee sick days, job performance, burnout and the possibility of unwanted turnover."

Arvest Wealth Management's Justin Giles: "A diversified portfolio can provide peace of mind. Whether it’s today’s high-interest-rate environment or turbulent times down the road, a trusted adviser can help find the right mix of products to add financial longevity to match your life in retirement."

Commerce Bank's Lacy Martin: "Accounts payable and receivable departments are one of the most vulnerable areas of fraud for any business."

OMB Bank's Michael Frerking: "Dating the rate isn’t for everyone, but finding that house you fall in love with – provided you can afford the payment regardless of the interest rate – is worth every penny."

Codistac owner Heather Noggle connects with local university professors on technical course content and teaching methods.

Burrell Behavioral Health chief regional operating officer Elizabeth Avery shares how mental health can be addressed in school settings.

Ozarks Technical Community College provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs Tracy McGrady discusses the role of educators as students face challenges.

FORVIS Deputy General Counsel Jarica Oeltjen discusses attorneys making a difference in local nonprofits.

Lynne Haggerman & Associates LLC owner Lynne Haggerman goes over recent law changes.