Mariah Hayes is the executive director of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Franklin County. She spoke with Leigh Caldwell of WJPF about CASA, the organization that supports abused and neglected children.

Democratic candidate for Illinois' 15th Congressional District Kevin Gaither joins The Morning Newswatch.

Diane Hood is one of the organizers of the annual Taste of Chocolate event which benefits The Women's Center in Carbondale. Hood sat down with Tom Miller for a conversation about the event which kicks off on Friday.