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WMOK – Metropolis · friday 6am wmok news check 3.13.26a

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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

Sunset: March 13, 2026, at 6:51 PM (CDT)

Sunrise: March 14, 2026, at 7:21 AM (CDT)

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

As the March 17 primary approaches, a quiet sense of anticipation is building across Massac County. While many election cycles pass with unopposed incumbents, this year is different.

For the first time in decades, local voters find themselves at the center of a barn burner of a race for Massac County Sheriff.

For years, the Sheriff’s office has often been settled before a single ballot was cast, with long-standing officials running unopposed. However, the 2026 primary has shattered that precedent.

Three candidates are vying for the Republican nomination, ensuring that the next leader of county law enforcement will have to earn their seat through the ballot box.

The candidates on the ballot include:

Harvey Eugene Baxter

Scott A. Deming

Bruce W. Laird

With no Democratic challengers filed for the primary, the winner of this March contest will hold a clear path to the office, making this particular vote the decisive moment for the future of the department.

After decades of uncontested transitions, this election serves as a reminder of the power of the local vote. It’s a chance for the community to weigh the experience and platforms of three distinct individuals rather than simply ratifying a predetermined outcome.

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.

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.

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.

This week in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th is a widespread Western superstition considered an unlucky day, occurring when the 13th day of a month falls on a Friday.

It happens at least once, and up to three times, per year, with 2026 featuring three such days in February, March, and November.

Key Details About Friday the 13th:Superstitions: Many avoid traveling, getting married, buying a house, or starting a new job. Common superstitions include not walking under ladders, avoiding black cats, and not breaking mirrors.

Cultural Significance: While often feared in Western culture, in Italy, 13 is considered lucky, and Friday the 17th is feared instead. In Spain and Greece, Tuesday the 13th is the “unlucky” day.

Celebrations & Traditions: It has become a popular day for tattoo shops to offer “$13” flash tattoos. It is also celebrated by horror movie marathons and sometimes specialized spooky events.

Terminology: The fear of this day is called paraskevidekatriaphobia.

Ken Day

Ken Day is celebrated annually on March 13 to commemorate the debut of the iconic Ken doll by Mattel in 1961.

While Mattel officially recognizes March 11, 1961, as Ken’s “birthday”—marking his first appearance at the American International Toy Fair in New York City—the public celebration of “Ken Day” typically falls on March 13.

Key Facts About Ken’s Debut

Full Name: His in-universe name is Kenneth Sean Carson Jr..

Inspiration: He was named after Ken Handler, the son of Mattel founders Ruth and Elliot Handler.

Original Look: The first Ken doll stood 12 inches tall (half an inch taller than Barbie) and featured molded plastic hair in blonde or brunette.

First Outfit: He debuted wearing only red swim trunks, a yellow towel, and cork sandals.

Price: At his 1961 launch, a Ken doll cost $3.50.

Friday, March 13

Massac County Band Benefit
Concludes with High-Energy Rock & Roll Show

The final night of the benefit concert series for the Massac County Band Programs is set for tonight, Friday, March 13, at the Elks Lodge in Metropolis. Following a successful opening night, the focus shifts to a “Rock & Roll Show” featuring a lineup of some of the most prominent musicians from Southern Illinois.

The evening’s scheduled performers include:

MCHS Rock Combo
The Faculty
DNA Vibrators
The Melungeons
Rooted in So. IL

Doors for the event open at 6:00 PM, with the first performance slated to begin at 6:30 PM. While there is no set admission fee, entry is by donation. All proceeds from the evening will directly benefit the local band programs.

In addition to the live music, the Elks Lodge will provide a taco bar for attendees. Official event T-shirts will also be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Grand Prize Raffle Drawing

A highlight of the night will be the drawing for the Ibanez guitar starter pack, which was generously provided by TC3 Music Supply of Metropolis. Raffle tickets are available for $10 each and have been sold throughout both nights of the benefit.

The winning ticket will be drawn during the rock show, and the winner must be present at the Elks Lodge to claim the prize.

Maple Grove Elementary Child Find Screenings

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)

Saturday, March 14

Joppa Maple Grove Hosts Spring Extravaganza on March 14th

Joppa Maple Grove is excited to announce its upcoming Spring Extravaganza, set to take place on March 14th.

This family-friendly event promises to be a delightful day filled with fun, community connections, and special appearances, including a visit from the Easter Bunny.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Returns to Joppa-Maple Grove

The Joppa-Maple Grove Unit School District 38 is excited to announce the return of its popular event, “Breakfast with the Easter Bunny.” Set to take place on March 14th at 9:00 AM, this event promises a morning filled with festive fun for the whole family.

Located at 911 Joppa North Ave in Joppa, Illinois, attendees can enjoy a delightful breakfast in the company of the Easter Bunny for just $10.

In addition to the yummy food, guests will have the chance to explore The Stables’ brand-new Easter designs and visit a variety of amazing vendors showcasing their products.

This community gathering is designed to create lasting memories filled with smiles and treats. Families are encouraged to hop on over and share in the festivities, making it a perfect way to welcome spring together. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity for fun and community connection!

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

Kiwanis Club of Metropolis Hosts Annual Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner

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.

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.

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 t...

6h ago

Kiwanis Club of Metropolis Hosts Annual Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner

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Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Returns to Joppa-Maple Grove

The Joppa-Maple Grove Unit School District 38 is excited to announce the return of its popular event, "Breakfast with the Easter Bunny." Set to take place on March 14th at 9:00 AM, this event promises a morning filled with festive fun for the whole family. Located at 911 Joppa North Ave in Joppa, Illinois, at...

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Free Lunch & Learn on Medicare Annual Wellness Visits Offered by Massac Memorial Medical Clinics

Massac Memorial Medical Clinics is hosting a free Lunch & Learn event focused on the significance of Medicare Annual Wellness Visits, aimed at enhancing community health awareness. This educational session will take place on Friday, March 27, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM in the classroom at Massac Memorial Hospital. Du...

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Keep the blood supply stable: Give blood or platelets with Red Cross

Free A1C testing on successful donations, $15 Amazon Gift Card by email for coming to give in March KENTUCKY, March 9, 2026 - This March, the American Red Cross urges donors to help the national blood supply recover following a severe shortage and empower their health by making an appointment to give blood or platelets...

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Today in Pop Culture

In March 1966, The Marketts’ surf-rock version of the “Batman Theme” reached its peak at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100. While Neal Hefti composed and recorded the original theme for the ABC TV series, his own version peaked lower on the charts at #35.

Today in Pop Culture

In March 1987, Bryan Adams’ “Heat of the Night” became the first commercially released cassette single (or “cassingle”) in the U.S., marketed by A&M Records. Released to support his album Into the Fire, this format innovation aimed to cater to the growing popularity of Walkmans and portable cassette players.

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Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - March 2026

Today in History:

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s first “Fireside Chat” on March 12, 1933, was a landmark moment that forever changed the relationship between the American presidency and the public. By speaking directly to citizens in their own living rooms, FDR bypassed traditional media filters to deliver a calm and reassuring explanation of the Emergency Banking Act.

Lasting Legacy

Media Revolution: FDR was the first president to effectively harness the power of radio, allowing him to share his personality and build a “personal relationship” with everyday Americans.

Frequency: Over his 12 years in office, he delivered 30 more Fireside Chats, covering topics from New Deal initiatives to the course of World War II.

Public Response: The chats prompted a massive surge in public engagement, with White House mail jumping from 5,000 to 50,000 letters per week.

Today in History:

On March 12, 1894, Joseph A. Biedenharn changed the beverage industry forever by bottling Coca-Cola at the Biedenharn Candy Company in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Here are a few more refreshing details about that first batch:

The Motivation: Biedenharn was already selling Coke at his soda fountain but realized that bottling it would allow him to sell to rural customers who couldn’t make it into town.

The “Hutchinson” Bottle: These first bottles were common, straight-sided glass containers with a “Hutchinson” wire stopper. They looked nothing like the famous “contour” bottle designed years later in 1915 to be recognizable even in the dark.

The First Case: After his successful first run, Biedenharn sent a case of the bottled soda to Asa Griggs Candler, the owner of The Coca-Cola Company. While Candler gave his blessing, he remained skeptical and didn’t believe bottling would ever be a major source of revenue.

A Lasting Legacy: The original building at 1107 Washington Street is now the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum, where you can still see the original bottling equipment and buy a Coke float at a vintage soda fountain.

WMOK School and Sports News

Shawnee Community College:

WMOK School and Sports News

5 Essentials Survey Deadline Friday March 13

5 Essentials Survey

Deadline Tomorrow Friday March 13

Massac Unit 1 School Superintendent Jason Hayes spoke with WMOK on the Coffee Break Program, during which time he shared the need for parents to complete the 5 essentials survey by tomorrow’s deadline.

Understanding the Five Essentials Survey: A Key to School Improvement

As schools strive to create an optimal learning environment, the annual Five Essentials Survey plays a crucial role in shaping educational experiences for students, teachers, and parents alike. This comprehensive tool aims to gather insights into various aspects of a school’s functioning, thus facilitating informed decision-making and improvements.

What is the Five Essentials Survey?

The Five Essentials Survey is an annual school climate survey designed for students, teachers, and parents. It serves as a platform to evaluate the effectiveness and overall atmosphere of educational institutions. The survey’s insights are vital for fostering a positive educational environment and ensuring that schools meet the needs of their communities.

Key Areas of Focus

The survey collects data on five essential components of a school’s operation:

1. Environment: This aspect assesses the general atmosphere of the school, including safety, engagement, and the inclusivity of the learning spaces. A positive environment is critical for student success and well-being.

2. Instruction: Instruction quality determines how effectively teachers deliver content and engage students. The survey seeks to understand diverse teaching practices and their impact on student learning.

3. Family Involvement: The role of families in education is irrefutable. This section examines how schools engage parents and guardians in the educational process, fostering partnerships that support student success.

4. Leadership: Effective leadership is foundational for school improvement. The survey assesses how school leaders support staff, make decisions, and drive the school’s vision forward.

5. Teachers: This component focuses on the teachers’ experience and their perceptions of school culture, collaboration, and professional development opportunities.

Importance of the Survey Results

The results of the Five Essentials Survey are not merely statistics; they are integral to the school improvement process. Schools utilize the data to identify strengths and areas needing development, tailoring their initiatives to enhance educational outcomes. Additionally, the findings are displayed on the school report card website, making them accessible to the entire community.

By engaging in this survey, schools can foster transparency and accountability, allowing students, parents, and staff to work collaboratively towards common goals and advocating for improvements where necessary.

Conclusion

The Five Essentials Survey is more than a series of questions; it is a vital mechanism for schools to reflect on their performance, engage with their communities, and drive continuous improvement. As the deadline for the survey approaches on March 13, 2026, it is an important reminder for all stakeholders to participate and voice their perspectives, ultimately contributing to a better educational environment for everyone involved.

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.

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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 13, 2026, at 6:51 PM (CDT)

Sunrise: March 14, 2026, at 7:21 AM (CDT)

Listen Now – WMOK Live Stream

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This week in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

Friday, March 13

Massac County Band Benefit Concludes with High-Energy Rock & Roll Show

Grand Prize Raffle Drawing

Maple Grove Elementary Child Find Screenings

Saturday, March 14

Coming Up in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

WMOK Coffee Break

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

618-524-9209

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

WMOK School and Sports News

5 Essentials Survey

Deadline Tomorrow Friday March 13

Job and Career Listings

Links to Local Employers:

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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