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WMOK – Metropolis · Friday NOON WMOK News Check 03.20

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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

Sunset: March 20, 2026, at 6:57 PM (CDT)

Sunrise: March 21, 2026, at 7:15 AM (CDT)

Listen Now – WMOK Live Stream

Traffic:

Get a live view of I-24 and Brookport Bridge Traffic via Waze

I-24 Reopens After Emergency Detour Due to Crash

WMOK – Metropolis – I-24 has officially reopened following a closure caused by a crash and a potential diesel spill in the work zone of the Ohio River Bridge.

The incident resulted in the blockage of the westbound lane, leading the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) to activate Emergency Detour Route A for all westbound traffic in McCracken County.

The crash occurred earlier today, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Traffic was expected to be disrupted for an estimated duration of two to four hours while crews worked to clear the scene and ensure the safety of the area.
WMOK has been advised that the lane is now clear, and westbound traffic can safely resume on I-24.

Metropolis Implements Administrative Warrants for City Abatement

The City of Metropolis is utilizing administrative warrants to address long-standing property maintenance and ordinance violations. These warrants allow city officials to legally access properties that have failed to comply with abatement orders.

Earlier this week, Metropolis Abatement Officer John Roman joined us for a Coffee Break to explain how this process streamlines local cleanup efforts while ensuring due process for residents.

Listen Below: Hear our full conversation with Officer Roman regarding the implementation and impact of these warrants on our community.

WMOK – Metropolis · Metropolis Implements Administrative Warrants for City Abatement

Kiwanis Scholarship Spaghetti Supper Saturday Night

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.

WMOK – Metropolis · Kiwanis Club of Metropolis Hosts Annual Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner

This week in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois

Friday, March 20

Nifty Needles at the Metropolis Public Library

Looking to wrap up your week with some creative company? The Nifty Needles group meets this afternoon at the Metropolis Public Library! Whether you are a master of the crochet hook or just casting on your first knitting project, all skill levels are welcome to join in.

When: Today, March 20, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Where: Metropolis Public Library, 317 Metropolis Street
What: A social hour for knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, and more
The Vibe: A craft session—short, sweet, and social!

It is the perfect chance to “just breathe” after a long week, swap patterns, and enjoy some yarn therapy. Grab your current project and head downtown to join the fun.

Saturday, March 21

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

Thursday – March 26

Metropolis Chamber of Commerce:
Spring Mix & Mingle – 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
at City National Bank

Metropolis Public Library Announces Remaining March “Kidz Club” Events

Following a brief hiatus earlier this month, the Metropolis Public Library is gearing up for an exciting finish to its March “Kidz Club” schedule. These events are specifically designed for local students from preschool through the 6th grade, offering a creative and educational outlet every Monday afternoon.

The Kidz Club meets weekly from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM at the library. While parents are permitted to drop off their children, the library requires that all participants register at the front desk during their first visit.

Upcoming March Schedule

Date	Activity	Highlights
March 23rd	Geode Smashing	A hands-on science adventure where kids use safety goggles and hammers to crack open geodes and discover hidden crystals.
March 30th	Easter Scavenger Hunt	A library-wide search for hidden eggs. Children who find all the eggs will receive a small prize to celebrate the upcoming holiday.

How to Participate

Families in Metropolis and Massac County and beyond who are interested in these programs are encouraged to contact the library directly. For registration details or general inquiries, you can call or message the Metropolis Public Library at (618) 524-4312.

Whether it’s discovering geological treasures or embarking on a holiday-themed hunt, these Monday afternoon sessions continue to provide a great space for local youth to learn and play.

Metropolis Public Library Updates March Events with St. Patrick’s and Easter Crafts

The Metropolis Public Library has updated its schedule of upcoming story time events, featuring a lineup of themed craft activities for March.

Hosted weekly on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the story time is open to children of all ages. For this month’s special events, the library will provide both the craft supplies and a snack for participants.

Here’s a look at the themed crafts planned for the rest of March:

Foam St. Patrick’s Day Craft – March 17th
Getting into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit, children attending on March 17th can create a themed foam craft. The options include a pot of gold or a lucky leprechaun’s hat, offering a hands-on way to celebrate the holiday.

Cute Elephant Craft – March 24th
The following week, children are invited to make their own adorable elephant craft on March 24th, providing a simple yet engaging activity.

Easter Bunny Craft – March 31st
For the final event of the month on March 31st, the library will be hosting an Easter-themed craft, where kids can make and take home their own foam Easter bunny, just in time for the upcoming holiday.

With various crafts scheduled for March, this weekly event at the Metropolis Public Library offers a chance for local children to engage in creative activities in a community setting.

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.

Kiwanis Club of Metropolis Hosts Annual Scholarship Spaghetti Dinner

Mar 19, 2026

2026 WMOK Community Events Listing

2026 Federal Holidays Holiday Date Day of Week Presidents' Day February 16 Monday Memorial Day May 25 Monday Juneteenth June 19 Friday Independence Day July 4 Saturday (Observed July 3) Labor Day September 7 Monday Columbus Day October 12 Monday Veterans Day November 11 Wednesday Thanksgiving Day November 26 Thursday C...

Mar 18, 2026

Metropolis Public Library Announces Remaining March "Kidz Club" Events

Following a brief hiatus earlier this month, the Metropolis Public Library is gearing up for an exciting finish to its March "Kidz Club" schedule. These events are specifically designed for local students from preschool through the 6th grade, offering a creative and educational outlet every Monday afternoon. ...

Mar 18, 2026

Metropolis Public Library Updates March Events with St. Patrick's and Easter Crafts

The Metropolis Public Library has updated its schedule of upcoming story time events, featuring a lineup of themed craft activities for March. Hosted weekly on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the story time is open to children of all ages. For this month's special events, the library will provide both the craft...

Mar 18, 2026

Metropolis Public Library Seeking Donations to Refresh Collections

The Metropolis Public Library is reaching out to the community for help in expanding its available media and literature. If you have been doing some spring cleaning or simply have items you no longer need, your gently used donations could find a second life on the library's shelves. The library is currently focusing it...

Mar 18, 2026

WMOK Coffee Break

WMOK's Coffee Break Program:

Coffee Break Archive

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

618-524-9209

Text News to WMOK at 618-524-9209

Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - March 2026

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 County residency to any of the following sites:

Current Distribution Locations & Times

Metropolis: 1013 North Ave.
- Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Brookport (New Location!): First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall (North end of the building; doors face East).
- New Schedule: 3rd Saturday of every month | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Joppa: Civic Center (Next to Joppa City Hall).
- Schedule: 3rd Saturday of every month | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

For more information or to inquire about emergency assistance, please contact the COPE Food Pantry at (618) 524-3635.

WMOK School and Sports News

Shawnee Community College:

WMOK School and Sports News

The Cell Phone Conundrum: Balancing Safety and Education in Schools – PART TWO – 3.11.26

WMOK – Metropolis, IL – The debate over students keeping cell phones in school remains a complex issue with valid perspectives on both sides. Proponents highlight the necessity of direct communication for safety and the potential for phones to serve as modern learning tools. Conversely, many educators argue that restricted access is vital to minimize distractions and curb cyberbullying.

When Massac Unit 1 School District Superintendent Jason Hayes joined us earlier in March for our Coffee Break Program, we discussed the current state of things regarding the topic, as well as the various viewpoints that exist.

Hear PART TWO of our discussion with Mr. Hayes in the Soundcloud player below:

WMOK – Metropolis · Balancing Safety and Education in Schools – PART TWO – 3.11

We’re interested in your feedback on the topic of Cell Phones at School – click the link below to send your feedback to

Text the WMOK Text Line at 618-524-9209

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

Metropolis Public Library Seeking New Youth Services Librarian

The Metropolis Public Library is excited to announce an opening for the position of Youth Services Librarian. Interested candidates to learn more about this opportunity by visiting the Metropolis Public Library website for further details.

Scroll to the bottom of the home page for links to employment applications.

Job Opening: Full-Time Truck Driver/Laborer at Massac County Highway Department

The Massac County Highway Department is actively seeking a dedicated individual to fill a full-time Truck Driver/Laborer position, offering an attractive compensation package and a supportive work environment. With a starting wage of $29.93 per hour, new employees will begin at $27.93 per hour for the first 90 days, with incremental pay increases thereafter.Position OverviewIn this role, the Truck Driver/Laborer will be integral to the maintenance and operation of the county’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, culverts, and right-of-ways. The position requires individuals to operate a variety of heavy and small trucks, as well as tools and machinery, to carry out key responsibilities such as:– Loading, hauling, and unloading materials and supplies
– Cleaning, repairing, and replacing culverts
– Paving and patching asphalt
– Repairing and replacing street signs
– Performing snow removal and salting operations
– Maintaining right-of-way through tree removal, trimming, planting, and land restorationCandidates must exhibit flexibility to work overtime when required and must maintain a courteous and cooperative demeanor while engaging with the public and fellow staff members. The ideal candidate should prioritize safety and demonstrate effective teamwork skills.QualificationsProspective candidates should possess a high school diploma or GED and have at least one year of general maintenance experience. A State of Illinois Class A CDL driver’s license is a must, along with the willingness to obtain a tanker endorsement post-employment. Other combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge and skills may also be considered. Preference will be given to residents of Massac County.Work Hours and BenefitsThis full-time, non-exempt position features regular working hours from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Candidates should be prepared for potential overtime and emergency call-outs outside regular hours.Along with competitive compensation, the county offers a robust benefits package, which includes:– Paid vacation, personal, and sick leave
– Fifteen recognized paid holidays
– Affordable health insurance options (including a family plan)
– Dental and vision coverage
– Supplemental insurance options through various providers
– Access to the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension plan
– Voluntary and deferred compensation 457 plans for additional retirement savingsHow to ApplyInterested individuals are encouraged to submit a completed job application in person at the Highway Department Office located at 2736 North Avenue, Metropolis, IL, or via email at bwatson@massaccountyil.gov. Applications can be obtained at the Highway Department Office or through the county’s website at [Massac County Highway](https://www.massaccountyil.gov/county-highway/).There is one available position, and applications will be accepted until April 2, 2026. Candidates selected for interviews will be contacted directly.

City of Metropolis Now Hiring Lifeguards for Summer 2026

WMOK – Metropolis, IL – The City of Metropolis is excited to announce that applications are now being accepted for lifeguard positions for the upcoming summer season. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are responsible and motivated to help ensure the safety of the community while enjoying the vibrant summer atmosphere at the pool.

The application deadline is set for April 1st. Interested candidates can apply in one of two ways:

1. Fill out an application online through the City’s official website.

2. Alternatively, applicants can pick up a physical application at the Mayor’s Office located in City Hall.

Joining the lifeguard team not only allows you to gain valuable experience but also lets you be part of a rewarding summer serving the community. If you know someone who would be a great fit, please share this information to help spread the word!