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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!
Monday, February 23, 2026 (CST)
Sunset in Metropolis, IL
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 (CST)
Sunrise in Metropolis, IL
Today: Expect partly sunny conditions gradually becoming sunny, with a high temperature around 34°F. A north-northwest wind will be blowing at 6 to 11 mph, becoming lighter in the afternoon. Be aware of wind gusts that could reach up to 20 mph.
Tonight: The skies will be mostly clear, with a low around 19°F. Winds will calm down, creating a tranquil evening.
Tuesday: Clouds will start to increase, with a high near 49°F. A light south wind will pick up, becoming south-southwest at 12 to 17 mph in the morning, with potential gusts exceeding 28 mph.
Tuesday Night: Anticipate mostly cloudy skies with a low of about 41°F. Southwest winds will be present at 5 to 11 mph, with gusts possibly reaching 24 mph.
Outlook for the Week: Be mindful of elevated fire danger on Tuesday due to increasing and gusty winds. Late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, there is a chance of thunderstorms, primarily bringing concerns of lightning and brief heavy rainfall.
Stay safe and enjoy the day!

I-24 Bridge Construction Update: Heads up, commuters!
All lanes on the I-24 Ohio River Bridge are currently open,
but a significant traffic shift is coming soon.
Phase 2 of the bridge rehabilitation project is set to begin on Monday, March 2, weather permitting. To accommodate the work, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Initially, temporary barriers will be placed; once the prep work is complete, all traffic will be shifted into a “head-to-head” configuration on the westbound lanes to allow for a complete overhaul of the eastbound side.
Expect these lane restrictions to be in effect through October 13. Enjoy the smooth crossing while all lanes are open this week!
Get a live view of I-24 and Brookport Bridge Traffic via Waze
Massac County Water Main Break & Boil Order
A water main break late Wednesday night had previously affected residents along Grand Chain Road and Tick Ridge Road.
The precautionary boil water order for those specific areas (between Hillerman and Post Creek) was scheduled to end today, February 23, at 10:00 AM.
Superman Celebration: The Return of Carnival Rides
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The Recap: The Metropolis Chamber of Commerce has officially confirmed that carnival rides will return for the 2026 Superman Celebration (June 12–14).
Our article has been updated with details following our conversation with Metropolis Chamber President, Maggie Rzechula:
Updated: Carnival Rides Make a Joyful Return to Superman Celebration 2026
Today in History:
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On this day in 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II, U.S. Marines reached the summit of Mount Suribachi and raised the American flag. This iconic moment became a powerful symbol of American resilience and bravery, representing hope and determination during a critical phase of the war. The image of the flag raising continues to resonate as one of the most famous moments in military history.
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On this day in 1954, a significant advancement in public health occurred with the first mass inoculation of children against polio using the Salk vaccine, launched in Pittsburgh. This moment marked a pivotal point in the fight against polio, a disease that had caused widespread fear and suffering, particularly among children. The Salk vaccine, developed by Dr. Jonas Salk, provided hope to millions and represented a noteworthy achievement in medical science. This mass immunization campaign laid the groundwork for the eventual eradication of polio in many regions, underscoring the critical importance of vaccination in safeguarding public health.
- On this day in 1927, the establishment of the Federal Radio Commission (FRC) was signed into law by President Coolidge. The FRC laid the groundwork for what would later become the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which plays a crucial role in regulating interstate and international communications.For listeners in Massac County, the importance of the FRC and FCC cannot be overstated. These organizations have ensured that radio programming remains diverse, accessible, and high-quality.As a staple in our community, WMOK radio has thrived under this regulatory framework, providing entertainment, news, and vital information to generations of residents.The evolution of broadcasting, facilitated by the FRC and FCC, has allowed our local station to adapt and grow alongside technological advancements, ensuring that Massac County continues to enjoy informative and engaging programming for decades.

As we approach the end of February, it’s important to note that this is not a leap year. With only 28 days, we will move directly from February 28th to March 1st. Let’s make the most of the remaining days before we welcome March!
Monday, February 23
I-24 Bridge Construction Update: Heads up, commuters!
All lanes on the I-24 Ohio River Bridge are currently open,
but a significant traffic shift is coming soon.
Phase 2 of the bridge rehabilitation project is set to begin on Monday, March 2, weather permitting. To accommodate the work, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction. Initially, temporary barriers will be placed; once the prep work is complete, all traffic will be shifted into a “head-to-head” configuration on the westbound lanes to allow for a complete overhaul of the eastbound side.
Expect these lane restrictions to be in effect through October 13.
Enjoy the smooth crossing while all lanes are open this week!
Massac Unit #1 School Board Meeting: The regular monthly meeting of the Board of Education is scheduled for tonight at 6:30 PM.
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Location: 2939 Old Marion Rd, Metropolis, IL.
Massac Group (AA) Open Meeting: A local recovery support group meets every Monday evening.
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Time: 8:00 PM
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Location: 317 Metropolis Street, Metropolis, IL.
Community meal tonight, February 23 @ 5pm at the Metropolis Community Center on 10th Street. Personal hygiene items and diapers will also be available for anyone who may need them. All ages are welcome!
Tuesday, February 24
Kiwanis Club of Metropolis Meeting: Noon at St. Paul Lutheran Church (520 Ferry Street). A great chance for local professionals to network and discuss community service projects.
Wednesday, February 25
5-7pm Trinity Food Pantry at 6th and Metropolis streets is open, specializing in Fresh Produce, with bread/meat/eggs when available. Clothing is available as well
Thursday, February 26
Friday, February 27

Saturday, February 28
10am-12pm Grace Church Community meal and pantry held on the last Saturday each month at 102 East 20th Street, Metropolis

Sunday, March 1
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.
Community Spotlight
Host a 2026 “Mix and Mingle”: Showcase Your Business to the Community
Are you looking for a way to get more eyes on your business while building meaningful professional relationships? The Metropolis Chamber of Commerce has officially opened its calendar for the 2026 Mix and Mingle event series, and they are looking for local hosts to lead the way.
These popular networking events provide a relaxed, after-hours environment for chamber members to connect, share ideas, and support the local economy. For a host, it’s a premier opportunity to open your doors and give the community a firsthand look at what you do.
Event Details at a Glance
The Mix and Mingle events are designed to be low-stress but high-impact. Here is the standard format:
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Frequency: Scheduled throughout the 2026 calendar year.
Atmosphere: Casual networking and business showcasing.
Hospitality: Hosts have the option to provide light snacks and refreshments, though it is not a requirement.
Why Host?
Hosting a Mix and Mingle is more than just a social hour; it’s a strategic marketing move. By bringing the “crowd to you,” you eliminate the hurdle of getting potential clients or partners through your front door. Whether you’ve recently renovated, launched a new product line, or simply want to reinforce your presence in Metropolis, this is your stage.
“We would love to partner with you in 2026! It’s a great opportunity to highlight your business while connecting with fellow chamber members.” — Lori Abbott, Office Manager
How to Secure Your Date
Dates for 2026 are expected to fill up quickly. If you are interested in putting your business in the spotlight, reach out to the Chamber office to reserve your spot on the calendar.
Contact Information:
Contact: Lori Abbott, Office Manager
Address: 516 Market St, Metropolis, IL 62960
Phone: 618-524-2714
Don’t miss the chance to be the hub of Metropolis business activity for an evening!
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Next Week on WMOK’s Coffee Break Program:
Wednesday – Metropolis Police Chief Harry Masse
Thursday – Metropolis Mayor Gregg Jeffords
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Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - February 2026

WMOK School and Sports News
Shawnee Community College:

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