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WMOK – Metropolis · Friday WMOK News Check 2.13

Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

5:33 PM
Friday, February 13, 2026 (CST)
Sunset in Metropolis, IL

6:45 AM
Saturday, February 14, 2026 (CST)
Sunrise in Metropolis, IL

Laughter, Local Love, and the Legacy of the Airwaves: A WMOK Friday Wrap-Up

Friday, February 13, 2026 — Happy Friday the 13th, Metropolis! As we wrap up another week here at WMOK, we’re balancing a bit of history, a bit of humor, and a lot of community spirit.

Wrapping Up “Laughter Keeps Us from Getting Dizzy” Week

They say love makes the world go round, but we’ve spent this week proving that laughter as THAT’s what keeps us from getting dizzy. As our themed week technically concludes tomorrow, we hope you’ve found a reason to smile—or better yet, a reason to make someone else laugh.

With Valentine’s Day arriving tomorrow, don’t let the “Friday the 13th” jitters get to you. If you’re still looking for that perfect gift, look no further than our own backyard. Shop local today and tomorrow to find truly unique treasures that you won’t find anywhere else. Support our local merchants and give a gift with a story!

World Radio Day: AI is a Tool, Not a Voice

Today is also World Radio Day, celebrated annually on February 13th. Proclaimed by UNESCO in 2011, this day highlights the power of radio as a vital medium for democracy, education, and community connection.

The theme for 2026 is “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a Tool, Not a Voice.” While AI helps us behind the scenes with production and efficiency, today reminds us that the human voice remains the heart and soul of the airwaves. Thank you for letting our voices into your homes, cars, and businesses every day.

This Day in History: Sound Barriers and Scoreboards

1923 – The Birth of a Legend: We celebrate the birth of Chuck Yeager, the legendary test pilot who eventually became the first person to fly faster than the speed of sound.

1935 – The Trial of the Century: A New Jersey jury delivered a guilty verdict against Bruno Richard Hauptmann for the kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh’s infant son, concluding one of the most followed trials in American history.

1954 – The 100-Point Game: Furman University’s Frank Selvey made NCAA history, becoming the first (and still only) Division I player to score 100 points in a single game.

1985 – The Brat Pack Era Begins: While it had a limited premiere a few days prior, this week in 1985 saw the widespread impact of John Hughes’ “The Breakfast Club.” The film didn’t just define a generation; it changed the way we look at a Saturday in detention forever.

In from the National Weather Service of Paducah

Today Sunny, with a high near 59. Calm wind becoming south southeast 5 to 7 mph.

Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 36. Light south southeast wind.

Saturday Rain likely, mainly after 3pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 57. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Saturday Night Rain. Low around 47. East southeast wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%.

Sunday Rain, mainly before noon. High near 55. North northeast wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 42. North northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Washington’s Birthday Sunny, with a high near 62. Light and variable wind.

I-24 Work Beginning Soon: Motorists Encouraged to Plan Ahead

Metropolis Police Chief Harry Masse, alongside Chief Tolbert, participated in a meeting regarding the I-24 bridge construction held at the Kentucky Transportation Headquarters in Paducah. During this meeting, key details were shared about upcoming work and traffic management strategies.

Beginning March 2nd, eastbound lanes of I-24 will be closed, with traffic being diverted to a head-to-head setup on the westbound side. A jersey wall will separate the opposing flows of traffic to ensure safety. Motorists should expect to see traffic diverted just west of the bridge and merging back to the eastbound side just to the east of the bridge. Chief Masse advised that traffic control measures will follow similar protocols to those implemented last year.

Chief Masse raised concerns during the meeting regarding the possibility of converting one lane on the westbound side of U.S. 45. However, transportation officials declined this request, citing safety studies indicating that maintaining ramp traffic prior to the lane closure is more secure.

In addition to the bridge construction updates, Chief Masse noted that our rest area will go out for bid in June, with plans to shut down for approximately two years. This closure may affect travel plans for many drivers.

Furthermore, a request for additional “no parking” signs on the ramps was denied, as the existing signage complies with the standards set forth by the National Highway Safety Administration.

Officials anticipate that the current phase of bridge work will be completed by October 13th. This timeline coincides with the second weekend of the upcoming encampment, which is scheduled for the 10th and 11th, potentially leading to increased traffic congestion during this busy period.

As work progresses on the I-24 bridge, local drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant and plan their routes accordingly to accommodate the changes in traffic flow.

Join in the conversation about I-24 on the WMOK Facebook Page

Today is Friday the 13th

Whether you’re dodging black cats or walking around ladders, it’s officially Friday the 13th! Stay lucky today, Metropolis.

Saturday, February 14

National Entrepreneurship Week

National Entrepreneurship Week is a congressionally chartered initiative that celebrates and empowers entrepreneurs, occurring annually during the third week of February. In 2026, it will take place from February 14 to 21, 2026.

Beginning this February, please note the following changes for the Brookport COPE Food Pantry Distribution:

🗓️ NEW SCHEDULE: The 3rd Saturday of every month.
⏰ TIME: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
📍 NEW LOCATION: First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.
🚪 FINDING THE ENTRANCE: North end of the church building; doors face East.

Valentine’s Day

Library Lovers Day – Valentine’s Day AND Library Lovers’ Day – The Metropolis Public Library is open this and every Saturday from 10am until 2pm

Sunday, February 15

Metropolis Celebrates Yolina Lindquist’s Homecoming Event

Metropolis, Illinois – On February 15th, the community of Metropolis will roll out the red carpet for one of its own as Yolina Lindquist returns home after being crowned Miss Cosmo International. The highly anticipated homecoming event will take place at The Space, located at 715 Market Street, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM.

Residents and local businesses are encouraged to come together in support of Yolina, who has soared to international fame through her dedication, grace, and the strong values rooted in her small-town upbringing.

Attendees can look forward to meeting Yolina and the Miss Cosmo crew, snapping photos, and participating in a variety of fun activities. The event will also feature refreshments and music, making it a perfect family-friendly outing.

Yolina’s achievement is a source of pride for all of us, and we want to show her the support she deserves.

Everyone is invited to this community-focused celebration, promising a vibrant atmosphere filled with camaraderie and spirit. Don’t miss the chance to welcome Yolina Lindquist back to Metropolis and celebrate her remarkable journey!

The 68th running of the Daytona 500 is scheduled for this coming Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The “Great American Race” will take place at the Daytona International Speedway. Here are the key details for the main event:

Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Green Flag: Approximately 2:30 PM ET

Speedweeks Schedule

Since it is currently Friday, February 13, there are several events happening right now and over the next 48 hours leading up to the big race:

Date	Event	Time (ET)
Friday, Feb 13	NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Race	7:30 PM
Saturday, Feb 14	ARCA Menards Series Race	12:00 PM
Saturday, Feb 14	NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Race	5:00 PM
Sunday, Feb 15	The Daytona 500	2:30 PM

Susan B. Anthony Day is celebrated on February 15th, which marks the anniversary of her birth in 1820.

Susan B. Anthony was a pioneering social reformer and women’s rights activist. She is best known for her tireless leadership in the women’s suffrage movement, which paved the way for the 19th Amendment.

Monday, February 16

President’s Day

Originally established in 1885 to honor George Washington’s February 22nd birthday, the holiday shifted to the third Monday of February under 1968’s Uniform Monday Holiday Act. Now commonly called Presidents’ Day, it celebrates the legacies of all past and current presidents.

Metropolis Public Library will be CLOSED on Monday, February 16th for Presidents Day

We invite you to tune in to the WMOK Morning Show from 6am until 10am on weekdays to hear each morning’s WMOK News Check, an eclectic mix of classic country, vintage hits, cover tunes and bit of the “newer stuff” mixed in for good measure. You can text requests, birthdays, anniversaries and the like to 618-524-9209 anytime.

If you have specific questions or concerns regarding any information please feel free to text us at that number and we will do our best to help you get the information you need. Keep in mind the WMOK text line is to help us stay connected to the community – we want you to use it as you would to contact an old friend.

Please share today’s Yellow Sheet to your friends – especially the local ones – Follow WMOK on Facebook to stay up to date with what’s happening in Metropolis and Massac County

Get Metropolis and Massac County News anytime on our website at www.920wmok.com

Volunteering

Getting involved in volunteering around Metropolis and Massac County is a great way to connect with our neighbors and make a difference. Places like the COPE Food Pantry and local groups like the Metropolis Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, and Massac Memorial Hospital Auxiliary offer fun ways to pitch in and help create a closer, stronger community for everyone.

WMOK's Coffee Break Program:

Coffee Break Archive

We invite you to text
questions and topics for our guests to

618-524-9209

Text News to WMOK at 618-524-9209

Tired of missing out on local news and community happenings in Metropolis, Illinois?

Subscription: To subscribe, text the word “News” to 618-524-9209.

The WMOK Text Line is your direct link to what’s happening. Subscribe to our free service and get the News Check Yellow Sheet delivered right to your phone five days a week.

The WMOK Text Line is also the best way to send in birthday and anniversary announcements, request a song, and submit topics for our popular community affairs program, Coffee Break.

Subscription: To subscribe, text the word “News” to 618-524-9209.

Just text your messages to (618)524-9209.

Stay connected with WMOK!

Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - February 2026

Auxiliary Announces Pre-Order Boxed Lunch Grab and Go Event

Screenshot

The Massac Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is excited to announce a special Grab and Go event featuring boxed lunches, available exclusively through pre-orders starting this week. Scheduled for Friday, March 27, this event promises a convenient and delicious option for those looking to enjoy a tasty meal while supporting a great cause.

To participate, all orders must be placed by Monday, March 23. The Auxiliary emphasizes that only pre-paid orders will be accepted, ensuring a streamlined process for both the organization and the customers. Payments can be made in person at the Forget Me Not Gift Shop or through PayPal at @MassacAuxiliary or massacauxiliary@yahoo.com.

Each boxed lunch includes a choice of sandwich, plain chips, a chocolate chip cookie, and a bottle of water—perfect for a satisfying meal on the go.

Pick-up for the boxed lunches will take place at the Old Main Entrance of Massac Memorial Hospital from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the day of the event.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grab a delicious meal while supporting the Auxiliary. Be sure to place your pre-order before the deadline and enjoy a great lunch!

For more information, feel free to contact the Auxiliary or visit the Forget Me Not Gift Shop.

WMOK School and Sports News

Massac County Sports on WMOK
Broadcast begins at approximately 7:15pm
with the
Acee’s Neighborhood Market Pre-Game Show

Listen on your radio at 920AM or on the WMOK Live Stream

Winter Storm Fern interrupted the Superman Classic Championship. The revised schedule is included below.

WMOK School and Sports News

Harry Statham Youth Basketball League

Maple Grove Elementary – Child Find Screenings

Massac Youth Soccer Sign-Ups Now Open for Spring Season!

Maple Grove Elementary – Child Find Screenings

Friday, March 13, 2026
8:15 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Maple Grove Elementary will be hosting Child Find Screenings for children living in our district who may be eligible for Pre-K or Kindergarten for the 2026–2027 school year.

Appointments are required.
Please call 618-543-7589 to schedule an appointment.

Eligibility requirements:
• Pre-K: Child must be 3 or 4 years old by September 1, 2026
• Kindergarten: Child must be 5 years old by September 1, 2026

Please bring:
• Birth certificate
• Physical and shot record
• Proof of residence

Pre-K families:
• Proof of income (most recent pay stubs, W-2, or Medicaid card)

WMOK School and Sports News

Valentine’s Crush Fundraiser: Spread the Love with Joppa-Maple Grove Unit School District 38

Joppa-Maple Grove Unit School District 38 is buzzing with excitement as the Beta Club launches its annual Valentine’s Crush fundraiser! This heartwarming initiative invites students and staff to share a little love with their friends by sending a Crush soda for just $1.

The fundraiser runs until Friday morning, giving everyone a chance to participate and make someone’s day a little brighter. Whether you want to surprise a close friend or express your appreciation to someone special, sending a Crush is a fun and easy way to share the love this Valentine’s Day.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of the celebration while supporting the Beta Club. Grab your Crush today and join in the fun!

Job and Career Listings

Send your Job and Career Listings to WMOK Text the information to 618-524-9209

Links to Local Employers:

Massac Memorial Hospital

MMH is hiring! Join a team that puts patients first and supports the health of our community every day. Compassion. Excellence. Local Care. Apply today at www.massachealth.org/careers or by scanning the QR code.

Rural Health, Inc.

Metropolis Big John

Shawnee Community College

City of Metropolis

Southern Seven Health Department

Job and Career Listings

Do you: Have a question about local news happenings, Have a suggestion for our Coffee Break Program, Have a question or topic you would like us to discuss on our Coffee Break or Metropolis and Massac County News?

The WMOK Text Line is your direct link to what’s happening. Subscribe to our free service and get the News Check Yellow Sheet delivered right to your phone five days a week.

The WMOK Text Line is also the best way to send in birthday and anniversary announcements, request a song, and submit topics for our popular community affairs program, Coffee Break.

Subscription: Send “News” to 618-524-9209

Stay connected with WMOK!

The WMOK News Check is Brought to you by:

Saturday, February 14

National Entrepreneurship Week

Valentine’s Day

Sunday, February 15

Speedweeks Schedule

Monday, February 16

President’s Day

We invite you to text questions and topics for our guests to

618-524-9209

Don’t Forget To Text For Your Free Subscription: Get Massac County and Metropolis IL News – Delivered To Your Text Message In Box 5 Days a Week –

Text *News* to WMOK at 618-524-9209

Auxiliary Announces Pre-Order Boxed Lunch Grab and Go Event

Massac County Sports on WMOK Broadcast begins at approximately 7:15pm with the Acee’s Neighborhood Market Pre-Game Show

Links to Local Employers:

Massac Memorial Hospital

Rural Health, Inc.

Metropolis Big John

Shawnee Community College

City of Metropolis

Southern Seven Health Department

Do you: Have a question about local news happenings, Have a suggestion for our Coffee Break Program, Have a question or topic you would like us to discuss on our Coffee Break or Metropolis and Massac County News?

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