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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

Sunset: March 16, 2026, at 6:53 PM (CDT)

Sunrise: March 17, 2026, at 7:19 AM (CDT)

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Election Day Approaches in Massac County: A Contested Sheriff's Race for the First Time in Decades

Tomorrow marks the important primary election in Massac, taking place on Tuesday, March 17, from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

It’s essential to make your voice heard!

We’ve included links to the sample ballots below to help you prepare.

Don’t forget to cast your vote and stay informed!

Massac County, IL – Constitution Party Ballot – Massac County Primary March 17, 2026

Massac County, IL – Democratic Party Ballot – Massac County Primary March 17, 2026

Massac County, IL – NonPartisan Party Ballot – Massac County Primary March 17, 2026

Massac County, IL – Republican Party Ballot – Massac County Primary March 17, 2026

Here is what you need to know for the upcoming primary:

Election Day: Tuesday, March 17.

Poll Hours: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Election Night Coverage on WMOK

Shawnee Mass Transit District Offers Free Rides to Polls on Election Day

The Shawnee Mass Transit District is stepping up to help voters on Tuesday, March 17th, by providing free rides to the polls on all of its regular existing routes. This initiative aims to encourage community members to participate in the upcoming election.

Residents in need of transportation are invited to take advantage of this opportunity to ensure their voices are heard. To schedule a ride, individuals can call 866-577-6278. The Shawnee Mass Transit District has confirmed that a seat will be reserved for those looking to cast their votes.

With this effort, the district hopes to increase voter turnout and make it easier for everyone to access polling places.

Massac County Commissioners to Tackle Personnel Matters and Energy Projects in Upcoming Meeting

The Massac County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to meet this Wednesday, March 18, 2026, for a session packed with items ranging from department grievances to major local energy developments.

The morning is set to begin with heavy personnel discussions, including a closed session regarding a grievance within the Sheriff’s Department and the formal dismissal of Gary Hamm. Following these matters, the board will pivot to infrastructure and energy, establishing a public hearing for the SB Energy Project and reviewing zoning for Tunnel Hill Solar, LLC.

Other notable items include a discussion on adding GLP-1 weight loss medications to the county insurance plan and addressing vacancies on the Joppa Sanitary Board.

Meeting Agenda: March 18, 2026

8:30 A.M. – Closed Session: Personnel matter/grievance (Sheriff’s Dept.)

8:45 A.M. – Vote on disposition of Sheriff’s Dept. grievance

8:50 A.M. – Sign Claims

9:00 A.M. – Approve Minutes from 3/3/2026

9:05 A.M. – Lorie Walters (GA Administrator)

9:10 A.M. – Brad Watson (County Highway Dept.)

9:20 A.M. – Chad Kaylor (County Sheriff)

9:30 A.M. – Brian Horn (EMA Director)

9:35 A.M. – James Mayer & Dean Payne (Mayer Networks Contract Renewal)

9:50 A.M. – Closed Session: Pending Litigation

10:15 A.M. – Motion to approve written decision and dismissal of Gary Hamm

10:20 A.M. – Motion to declare Supervisor of Assessments position vacant

10:25 A.M. – Motion to appoint a Supervisor of Assessments

10:30 A.M. – Establish public hearing details for SB Energy Project

10:40 A.M. – Approve zoning letter for Tunnel Hill Solar, LLC

10:45 A.M. – Approve ROE21 Quarterly Report (Quarter 2)

10:50 A.M. – Discuss/Approve weight loss medications for county insurance

10:55 A.M. – Sign letter to approve GLP-1 medications (shot and pill form)

11:00 A.M. – Discuss two vacancies on the Joppa Sanitary Board

11:10 A.M. – Public Comment

Note to the Public: Scheduled times may run over, and Public Comment may occur earlier than scheduled if there are cancellations.

MPD Arrest Blotter Overview: March 1 - March 11, 2026

The Metropolis Police Department has been active over the first eleven days of March, with incidents ranging from theft and domestic battery to multiple drug and traffic-related offenses. Here is a breakdown of the recent activity:

Violent Offenses & Battery

Domestic Battery: On March 1, officers responded to a disturbance in the 1900 block of Simmons. Sierra N. Street (34) was arrested after allegedly attempting to force entry into a bedroom, resulting in the victim receiving three cuts to the arm from an unknown weapon.
Aggravated Battery: On March 3, Christina J. Atkinson (37) of Tunnel Hill was charged with Aggravated Battery after allegedly kicking a Metropolis Sergeant in the groin while resisting a cell transfer at the Massac County Detention Center.

Theft & Narcotics

Generator Theft: Paul P. Mayotte (32) was arrested on March 1 following an investigation into a stolen generator from a Helm Street residence. The arrest triggered a probation violation warrant from IDOC.
Methamphetamine Possession: During a traffic stop on March 7 in the 900 block of E. 9th, a K9 unit alerted to a vehicle, leading to the discovery of methamphetamine. Michael W. Howett (40) and Charles J. Morris (59) were both charged.

DUI & Traffic Enforcement

DUI Arrest: On March 8, Alejandro A. Gonzalez (34) was stopped on 5th Street after an officer observed the vehicle weaving. He was charged with DUI (BAC over .08) and driving without a valid license.
FLOCK Hits & Suspensions: Metropolis officers utilized FLOCK technology to identify several vehicles with suspended registrations, leading to charges for:
- Female (67): Cancelled license and no insurance.
- Male (58): Suspended license and no insurance.
- Male (33): Suspended license.

Warrant Arrests

March 2: Lateshia M. Jackson (40) for Failure to Appear (Possession of Methamphetamine).
March 7: Edlan B. Kesete (37) of Rowlett, TX, arrested at Acee’s Truck Stop on an out-of-state warrant (TN) for Menacing and Criminal Damage.
March 11: Ray G. Lee (63) on a Massac County warrant for Battery and Criminal Damage to Property.

Note: All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This week in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

National Freedom of Information Day:

National Freedom of Information Day, celebrated on James Madison’s birthday, emphasizes the critical role of transparency in government. By promoting open access to information, it empowers citizens to hold their leaders accountable, fosters public trust, and encourages informed participation in democracy. Transparency is essential for a healthy, functioning society.

National Artichoke Hearts Day

National Artichoke Hearts Day is celebrated to honor the delicious and versatile artichoke heart. This day encourages culinary exploration, as artichoke hearts can be enjoyed in salads, dips, and pasta dishes. Celebrated on March 16, this occasion invites food lovers to appreciate their unique flavor and health benefits. Enjoy some artichokes today!

Monday, March 16

Orders Must Be Place by One Week From Today:

March 2026

Auxiliary 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!

Tuesday, March 17

Election Day

St. Patrick’s Day

12P – The Kiwanis Club of Metropolis meets every Tuesday at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 520 Ferry Street in Metropolis

Wednesday, March 18

Open House at Shawnee Community College: A Opportunity for Small Business Owners

Shawnee Community College is set to host an informative open house event, inviting local entrepreneurs and small business owners to learn more about the valuable resources offered by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

The open house will take place Wednesday, March 18, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Attendees will have the chance to discover how the SBDC can assist them in growing their businesses and navigating the often complex landscape of entrepreneurship. With a range of services tailored to meet the specific needs of small businesses, this event promises to be a beneficial experience for anyone looking to enhance their business strategies.

For those who are unable to attend the open house, the SBDC encourages individuals to reach out via phone at 618-634-3364 or visit their website for more information about the services and support available.

This open house is a valuable opportunity for small business owners to connect with experts, access resources, and gather insights that could help them thrive in today’s competitive environment.

Massac County Drug Awareness Coalition meets on the 3rd Wednesday at 12p at Metropolis City Hall

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, March 19

Friday, March 20

Saturday, March 21

The Kiwanis Club of Metropolis is gearing up for its much-anticipated annual Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner, a cherished tradition within the community. Scheduled to take place at Massac Junior High School, this event promises a delightful evening filled with delicious food and the spirit of giving back.

Spanning a duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes, the dinner invites everyone, from local residents to visitors, to come together in support of a great cause. Attendees can look forward to enjoying a hearty meal while contributing to the club’s mission of supporting local students through scholarships. Last year alone, the Kiwanis Club awarded over $32,000 in scholarships to graduates from Joppa and Massac County High Schools, making a significant impact on their educational journeys.

Tickets for the event can be purchased in advance through any Kiwanis member or at the door on the night of the dinner. It’s a wonderful opportunity for community members to engage with one another while helping to shape the future of local students.

As the date approaches, excitement is building within the community. The Kiwanis Club of Metropolis continues to exemplify the spirit of service and commitment to education, ensuring that another successful spaghetti dinner is on the horizon.

Sunday, March 22

2026 Fishing Licenses: The Illinois DNR reminds residents that 2026 fishing licenses are now officially on sale. https://dnr.illinois.gov/lpr/fishinglicensesfees.html

Coming Up in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

Community Support Bubbles Up: Massac County Drug Awareness Coalition to Host Free Laundry Event

The Massac County Drug Awareness Coalition (MCDAC) is bringing a practical touch of support to the local community this month. On Thursday, March 26, the organization will host a special Laundry Event designed to provide essential services to residents in Metropolis and the surrounding areas.

From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, individuals are invited to visit Super City Cleaners, located at 722 E 5th St. in Metropolis, IL, to take advantage of several free resources. The initiative aims to alleviate some of the daily burdens for neighbors in Unionville, Joppa, New Columbia, and throughout Massac County.

Event Details and Offerings
The coalition is offering a comprehensive package to ensure participants can complete their laundry with ease. The event includes:

3 Free Loads per Person: Washing and drying costs are covered for up to three loads.

Complimentary Laundry Detergent: Supplies will be provided on-site.

Dryer Sheets: Available to all participants to finish their laundry day right.

More Than Just Clean Clothes

Events like these serve as a vital touchpoint for the Massac County Drug Awareness Coalition. Beyond the immediate benefit of clean laundry, the gathering provides a space for community members to connect and learn more about the resources available through the coalition.

Annual Trivia Night Set to Engage Young Leaders in Massac County

Massac County, IL – The Massac County Farm Bureau, in collaboration with Katelin Stratmeyer-Korte, is excited to announce their 4th Annual Trivia Night, a vibrant event that promises fun and fellowship for local residents. Scheduled to take place at the Elks Lodge, this event aims to bring together young leaders from the community for an evening of competition, camaraderie, and a chance to showcase their knowledge.

The Trivia Night is open to anyone interested in participating, whether they are affiliated with Facebook or not, making it an inclusive opportunity for all. The event will be an exciting gathering where trivia enthusiasts can team up and challenge one another across various topics.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to register in advance. Potential attendees can contact the Massac County Farm Bureau office at 618-524-5811 or reach out via email at massacfb1@gmail.com for any questions and registration details. Additional information is also available on the flyer attached to the event page.

This year’s trivia night is a wonderful chance for young leaders to come together, not only to test their knowledge but also to foster connections within the community. It promises to be an engaging and entertaining evening, making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to have fun while supporting local initiatives.

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Community Resource Update: COPE Food Pantry Distribution Schedule

WMOK - Metropolis, IL - COPE Food Pantry remains a vital resource for Massac County residents, providing essential nutrition across three convenient locations. Notably, the Brookport distribution has moved as of February 2026 to better serve the community. Residents are reminded to bring a photo ID and proof of Massac ...

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Kiwanis Club of Metropolis Hosts Annual Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner

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Today in Pop Culture

Otis Redding’s Historic No. 1 (1968): Released after his tragic death, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” began a five-week run at the top of the U.S. charts, becoming the first posthumous No. 1 single in history.

Today in Pop Culture

Robert Blake Acquittal (2005): The “Baretta” star was acquitted of the murder of his wife, Bonny Lee Bakley, following a high-profile three-month trial.

Text News to WMOK at 618-524-9209

Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - March 2026

Today in History:

2020: The Dow Jones Industrial Average suffered a massive 2,997.10-point drop, among the largest in history, due to pandemic concerns.

Today in History:

The Dawn of Rocketry (1926): American physicist Robert H. Goddard successfully launched the world’s first liquid-fueled rocket in Auburn, Massachusetts. While it only reached an altitude of 41 feet, it laid the essential groundwork for modern space exploration and NASA’s later achievements.

WMOK School and Sports News

Shawnee Community College:

WMOK School and Sports News

Sponsorship: The window to get in on sponsoring Massac County Sports broadcasts on WMOK is now open! To learn how sponsoring Massac County sports on WMOK can put you in the ears of Patriot fans, contact us via the WMOK Text Line at 618-524-9209.

WMOK Live Stream

MCHS Baseball Team Fundraising with Delicious Stonie's Meat Sticks

MCHS baseball is hosting a fundraiser with the sale of Stonie’s Meat Sticks. The baseball team is excited to offer a mixed box that allows customers to try all the different flavors available. These meat sticks are perfect for various occasions, whether it’s enjoying a game, going for a hike, participating in a hunting trip, or simply needing a quick snack.

The available meat stick flavors include Original, Teriyaki, Sweet & Sassy, Smoked Chipotle, BBQ, Bacon, Peppered Cheese and Jalapeño, Maple Habanero, and Pineapple Jalapeño. Each mixed box contains 2 to 3 of each flavor, providing a delicious assortment for all taste preferences.

The cost for the meat sticks is $30 for a pack of 24, making them an affordable snack option for those on the go. The deadline to place orders is Friday, March 20th.

This initiative not only provides a tasty treat for customers but also supports the MCHS baseball team. Community members are encouraged to participate in this fundraiser and help support local athletics.

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

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Sunset: March 16, 2026, at 6:53 PM (CDT)

Sunrise: March 17, 2026, at 7:19 AM (CDT)

Listen Now – WMOK Live Stream

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Violent Offenses & Battery

Theft & Narcotics

DUI & Traffic Enforcement

Warrant Arrests

This week in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

Monday, March 16

Tuesday, March 17

Election Day

St. Patrick’s Day

Wednesday, March 18

Thursday, March 19

Friday, March 20

Saturday, March 21

Sunday, March 22

Coming Up in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

WMOK Coffee Break

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