Marion Mayor Bob Butler speaks on WJPF about the overlooking of southern Illinois by lawmakers in Springfield and the money owed from the state of Illinois to the city of Marion for the construction and opening of the Hub Recreation Center. Butler also discusses the growth of business needed for the area and status of the Star Centre Mall.

Congressman Mike Bost (R-Murphysboro) joins The Morning Newswatch.

Regional Office of Education #30 Superintendent Matthew Hickam joins The Morning Newswatch.