1. Pop-Up Craft Day: Pipe Cleaner Critters
If you are looking for a fun, hands-on activity, the library is hosting a Pop-Up Craft Day designed for community members of all ages.
What: A rainy day craft session focused on making creative pipe cleaner critters.
When: Today, drop in anytime between 12:30 PM and 5:00 PM.
Details: All supplies are provided by the library; attendees just need to bring their imagination.

2. Upcoming Memorial Day Closure
In observance of the upcoming national holiday, the library has announced an adjustment to its standard operational schedule.
Closure Date: Monday, May 25th
Occasion: Closed in honor of Memorial Day.
Note: Regular operational hours will resume following the holiday.

3. 2026 Summer Reading Program: “Reading is Dino-Mite!”
Looking ahead, registration is about to open for the highly anticipated 2026 Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is all about prehistoric adventure, featuring dinosaur-themed books, interactive activities, and post-program snacks.
Registration Timeline
Sign-up Period: June 1st through July 1st.
Where to Register: Sign-ups must be completed directly at the Metropolis Public Library

The City of Metropolis is gearing up for the 2026 swim season at the City Pool.

WMOK learned during a recent Coffee Break with Mayor Jeffords that several significant changes have been announced to ensure the facility remains a safe, family-friendly environment for local residents.

• Opening Day: Memorial Day (Monday, May 25, 2026).

• New Hours: The pool will close daily at 5:00 PM to accommodate the high demand for private parties.

• Resident Only: Pool passes (single and family) are now available only to Massac County residents.

• The “Teen Pass”: A new waiver system for ages 13–17 to curb issues with “imported” unruly behavior and unaccompanied minors.

• Daily Admission: Now $3.00.

Addressing the “Babysitter” Problem

Mayor Jeffords emphasized that the city is taking a firm stand on unaccompanied minors. In previous years, the pool often dealt with children being dropped off without supervision, leading to unruly behavior.

“Our lifeguards are there to make sure you’re staying safe—they are not babysitters,” Jeffords told WMOK.

The New Teen Access Policy:

• Ages 13–17: Must have a Teen Pool Access Pass. To get one, a parent or guardian must visit City Hall to sign a waiver.

• Under 13: Cannot enter without a parent or guardian unless accompanied by a sibling who holds a Teen Pool Access Pass.

• Consequences: Misbehavior, including cursing or fighting, will result in immediate removal from the facility.

2026 Pricing Structure

While prices have seen a slight increase to align with rising costs, the Mayor noted that Metropolis remains significantly more affordable than surrounding area pools.

• Daily Gate Fee: $3.00

• Individual Season Pass: $40.00 (Massac County residents only).

• Family Pass: $120.00 (Covers a family of four; $30 for each additional child).

• Pool Parties: The cost is still $200 for a two-hour block (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM). Dates typically fill up within a single afternoon once the calendar opens.

Dress Code & Environment

The city is reinforcing a “proper swimwear” policy.

• Expectation: Traditional swim trunks for boys and family-appropriate bathing suits for girls.

• Prohibited: “Skinny” or overly revealing suits that are not suitable for a public city pool.

Hear WMOK’s Full Discussion with Mayor Jeffords in the Soundcloud Player Below:

METROPOLIS, IL — Families looking for a unique weekend activity can step back in time this July at Fort Massac State Park. The historic site will host an interactive session titled “18th Century Children’s Table-top Games,” designed to introduce modern kids to the entertainment of the past.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 18th, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM inside the Fort Massac State Park Visitor’s Center.

Timeless Entertainment for Modern Kids

The hands-on program invites participants to explore tabletop games that originated centuries ago but are still widely enjoyed today. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn and play classics such as:

• Shut the Box

• Mancala

• Dominoes

Organizers note that while early play is easy for beginners to pick up, deeper strategy naturally emerges as players become more proficient with the rules.

Event Details at a Glance

• What: 18th Century Children’s Table-top Games

• When: Saturday, July 18th | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• Where: Fort Massac State Park Visitor’s Center

• Target Audience: Best for ages six and up

About Fort Massac State Park: Rich in frontier history, Fort Massac State Park regularly hosts educational programming to bring local and national history to life for the community.

For more information about the event, community members can visit the visitor’s center or check local park listings.

The Heroes of Massac Endeavors (HOME) has officially announced the return of their signature fundraising event. The Steele Wings Swing Dance is set to take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. This 1940s-themed evening serves as a key benefit for the construction of a statue honoring Metropolis native and WWII paratrooper John Marvin Steele, along with a memorial for all Massac County WWII fallen heroes.

What to Expect

• Live Big Band Music: The evening typically features a full orchestra (past years have featured Steve Shininger & The ShinSings) playing authentic 1940s standards.

• Vintage Attire: Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest 1940s costumes. Trophies are traditionally awarded for the “Best Dressed Gal,” “Best Dressed Guy,” and “Best Dance Duo.”

• Nostalgic Atmosphere: The event often includes period-appropriate hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and vintage photo opportunities to transport guests back in time.

• Community Impact: All proceeds go directly toward the John Marvin Steele Statue and WWII Memorial project.

Event Logistics

• When: Saturday, September 19, 2026

• Where: Traditionally held at the historic Harry Statham Gymnasium in Brookport.

• More Information: Keep an eye on heroesofmassacendeavors.org for ticket sales and door times as the date approaches.