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WMOK – Metropolis · WEDNESDAY WMOK NEWS CHECK 2.25 NOON

Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

5:45 PM
Wednesday, February 25, 2026 (CST)
Sunset in Metropolis, IL

6:30 AM
Thursday, February 26, 2026 (CST)
Sunrise in Metropolis, IL

Today, February 25, 2026:

Expect a mostly cloudy day with a high of 58°F. There is a chance of scattered showers, especially in the afternoon, as a cold front moves through the area. Winds will be coming from the southeast at 10-15 mph, making it feel a bit cooler, so consider a light jacket if you’re heading out. Sunset will occur at 5:45 PM CST.

Tomorrow, February 26, 2026:

Look forward to a cooler start with temperatures beginning in the low 40s. The morning may bring some residual clouds, but as the day progresses, we should see more sunshine peeking through. The high will reach around 54°F. Winds will shift to the north-northwest at 10-15 mph. Sunrise will be at 6:30 AM CST. Overall, a pleasant day ahead!

WMOK Live Stream

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 Commissioners Hold Public Hearing on Proposed Solar Energy Facility

Feb 24, 2026 | 10:22 AM

Massac County Residents Invited to Weigh In on Major 5,000-Acre Solar Project TONIGHT

Image Source: Multiple Facebook Posts

METROPOLIS, IL — The landscape of Massac and Johnson Counties could be seeing significant changes following a public hearing held last night, February 24, 2026. The Massac County Board of Commissioners gathered at the Metropolis Elks Lodge to discuss a proposed massive commercial solar energy facility, which could have a profound impact on the area.

California’s SB Energy has proposed a solar project spanning approximately 5,150 acres in Massac and Johnson Counties. The site is situated in an unincorporated area of the county, roughly two miles east of Belknap, covering portions of Sections 01, 02, 03, 11, 12, and 30 in Township 14 South.

SB Energy (SE US Development, LLC) is a significant player in the renewable energy sector, backed by SoftBank. This new project would rank among the largest solar developments in Illinois, rivaling the Double Black Diamond project located further north.

The public hearing served as an opportunity for community members to voice their concerns regarding drainage, property values, and land use, as the board acted in a quasi-judicial capacity to gather evidence.

Following the hearing, the Massac County Board of Commissioners will review the testimony and technical reports provided by the developer before voting on the Special Use Permit.

The Massac County Commissioners will be joining WMOK for the Coffee Break program on Tuesday, March 3. Community members are encouraged to participate by texting questions and topics for the conversation to 618-524-9209.

Stay tuned for updates as the approval process for this significant solar project unfolds.

See what other local folks have to say and give us your own ‘two cents’ on our Facebook Post:

2026 Tax Season

Today in History: The 16th Amendment

The 16th Amendment was officially certified 113 years ago today, on February 25, 1913. This historic move gave Congress the power to lay and collect taxes on incomes. Illinois was an early supporter, having ratified the amendment way back in 1910!

2026 Tax Deadlines (Mark Your Calendars!)

For Metropolis and Massac County residents, the clock is ticking for the 2025 tax year filing:

Federal & State Deadline: Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Extensions: You can request an extension until October 15, 2026, but remember: this is an extension to file, not an extension to pay. Any money owed is still due by April 15 to avoid interest and penalties.

Speedy Refunds: Both the IRS and the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) recommend filing electronically with direct deposit. Most electronic filers see their refunds in about four weeks.

Key Changes for Illinois Taxpayers

Personal Exemptions: For the returns you are filing now (2025 tax year), the Illinois standard exemption is $2,850. Looking ahead to next year, that will increase to $2,925.

Helpful Tools for Residents

IRS Free File: Eligible taxpayers can prepare and file federal returns for free via the IRS website.

MyTax Illinois: Use the state’s official portal to file your Illinois return and track your refund status directly.

Thursday, March 5th – The Massac County Republican Party invites you to the Metropolis Community Center for the Republican Sheriff Candidate Forum

Mark your calendars for an important event on Thursday, March 5th! The Massac County Republican Party invites you to the Metropolis Community Center for the Republican Sheriff Candidate Forum. Doors will open at 6:00 PM, with the forum kicking off at 6:30 PM.

This is a great opportunity for attendees to hear from the candidates vying for the sheriff position and to engage with them on key issues.

Don’t miss this chance to participate in the democratic process!

Today in History:

On February 25, 1779, Colonel George Rogers Clark accepted the surrender of Fort Sackville in Vincennes, Indiana, from British Lieutenant Governor Henry Hamilton. After a treacherous 18-day winter march, Clark’s forces secured the Northwest Territory for the United States, significantly expanding American territory and breaking British influence in the Ohio Valley.

Samuel Colt received U.S. Patent No. 138 (later 9430X) for his “revolving gun” on February 25, 1836. This patent protected the core mechanics of the first commercially viable repeating firearm, which utilized a rotating cylinder to align multiple chambers with a single stationary barrel.

On February 25, 1964, 22-year-old Cassius Clay (later known as Muhammad Ali) shocked the world by defeating the reigning heavyweight champion Sonny Liston at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Released on February 25, 1982, Alabama’s Mountain Music is their sixth studio album, certified 5x Platinum and widely considered their most successful, major crossover hit. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and No. 14 on the Billboard 200, featuring hits “Mountain Music,” “Take Me Down,” and “Close Enough to Perfect”.

Unveiling History: A Journey Through the Civil War in Southern Illinois

Last night, Tuesday, February 24th, the Pope County Historical Society hosted an engaging video presentation by Ed and Diane Annable at the Historical Society Museum. They showcased one of their latest works, “War in Copperhead Egypt – The War Within Southern Illinois – 1861-1865.”

This captivating presentation delved into a lesser-known chapter of American history, highlighting the internal conflict that divided communities in Southern Illinois during the Civil War. Unlike the more celebrated battles, this conflict unfolded not just on the battlefield but within neighborhoods, pitting neighbor against neighbor.

If you missed last night’s event, don’t worry! You can still engage with this important piece of history. We invite you to watch the live stream of the presentation on the Pope County Historical Society’s Facebook page. Join us in understanding the struggles that shaped the relationships and identities of those living in Southern Illinois during one of the nation’s most tumultuous times.

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

The Love Out Loud WinterFest is a community-focused, free event scheduled to take place in Metropolis, Illinois, on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

The festival is designed to provide both material support and family-friendly entertainment to the local community.

Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026

Time: 2:30 PM

Location: Metropolis Elementary School (1015 Filmore St, Metropolis, IL)

Cost: Free admission for all ages

The festival emphasizes community “giveaways” and a positive, hope-filled atmosphere.

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!

WMOK's Coffee Break Program:

Coffee Break Archive

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questions and topics for our guests to

618-524-9209

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Stay connected with WMOK!

This Week on WMOK’s Coffee Break Program:

Thursday – Metropolis Mayor Gregg Jeffords

Do YOU have questions or topics you’d like us to discuss?

Text WMOK at 618-524-9209 and get in on the community conversation!

Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - February 2026

WMOK School and Sports News

Shawnee Community College:

WMOK School and Sports News

Massac County High School Basketball

The Massac County Lady Patriots’ impressive postseason run came to an end on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026, in the IHSA Class 2A Sectional Semifinals.

The Lady Patriots faced a formidable opponent in the top-seeded and defending state champion Nashville High School Hornettes. The game was held at Chester High School as part of the Chester Sectional.

Game Summary: Massac County vs. Nashville
Final Score: Nashville 54, Massac County 26

Tournament Stage: IHSA 2A Sectional Semifinals

Location: Chester, IL

the Massac County Patriots are back in action tonight for a high-stakes postseason matchup.

While the Lady Patriots’ season concluded last night, the boys’ team is looking to keep their momentum alive in the IHSA Class 2A Regional Semifinals.

Tonight’s Game Details
The Patriots are traveling to Anna for a showdown against a familiar conference rival.

Matchup: #8 Massac County Patriots vs. #1 Anna-Jonesboro Wildcats

Event: IHSA 2A Regional Semifinal

Time: 7:30 PM (CST)

Location: Anna-Jonesboro High School

The Stakes: This is a win-or-go-home game. The winner advances to the Regional Championship on Friday, February 27th.

WMOK Live Stream

WMOK School and Sports News

Job and Career Listings

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

Job and Career Listings

Visit the WMOK Soundcloud for popular WMOK Coffee Break Interviews and News Checks You May Have Missed

The WMOK News Check is Brought to you by:

5:45 PM Wednesday, February 25, 2026 (CST) Sunset in Metropolis, IL

6:30 AM Thursday, February 26, 2026 (CST) Sunrise in Metropolis, IL

2026 Tax Deadlines (Mark Your Calendars!)

Wednesday, February 25

Thursday, February 26

Friday, February 27

Saturday, February 28

Sunday, March 1

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

618-524-9209

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Links to Local Employers:

More from WMOK Metropolis

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