Murphysboro Mayor Will Stephens joins us to talk about the town, including renovations to Walnut Street, the Big Muddy River Overpass and a banner he wants residents to sign in response to a woman who wrote to the town about her experiences with a soldier from Murphysboro during World War II.

President and CEO of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association Michael Jacobson joins The Morning Newswatch.

Republican candidate for Illinois' 5th Appellate Court District Mark Boie joins Tom Miller in the studio.