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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!
Wednesday, March 25: Sunset is at 7:12 PM.
Thursday, March 26: Sunrise is at 6:49 AM.
Foot Chase Ends in Arrest Following Pursuit to Joppa
WMOK – Metropolis, IL – An attempted traffic stop on US 45 led to a vehicle and foot pursuit on Monday, March 16, resulting in the arrest of a Joppa man.
According to the Metropolis Police Department, an officer attempted to stop a black Kia traveling from Airport Road onto US 45. The officer identified the driver as Michael A. Hazelwood, 52, of Joppa, and was aware of an outstanding Massac County warrant for failure to register as a sex offender.
The Pursuit
A pursuit ensued, continuing until the vehicle entered the City of Joppa. At that point:
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Hazelwood stopped the vehicle and fled on foot.
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The foot chase concluded when Hazelwood tripped over a tree limb, allowing officers to take him into custody.
Charges and Lodging
Hazelwood faces multiple charges following the incident, including:
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Fleeing and attempting to elude police
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Resisting arrest
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Driving while license suspended
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Possession of drug paraphernalia
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Various traffic charges
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The outstanding Massac County warrant
He was lodged in the Massac County Detention Center.
Note: The preceding information pertains to an arrest made by the Metropolis Police Department. This arrest was made on the basis of probable cause, and all arrestees are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Importance of Planning Presentation
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When: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
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Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
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Where: SICIL (Southern Illinois Center for Independent Living)
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101 W. 8th Street, Metropolis, IL 62960
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Presented By: Land of Lincoln Legal Aid in partnership with the Center for Disability and Elder Law (CDEL).
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The Topic: A discussion on the power of attorney (POA) for health care and property.
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Note: This is not a legal presentation; it is an informational session to help people understand these documents and how to obtain them.
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Bonus Services: A caseworker will be available to discuss POA and Will services that Land of Lincoln Legal Aid can provide to eligible individuals.
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More Information: Call (618) 638-1377.
This week in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois
Wednesday, March 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, March 26
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.
Metropolis Chamber of Commerce:
Spring Mix & Mingle – 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
at City National Bank
Friday, March 27
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.
During the event, healthcare professionals will provide valuable insights into what Medicare Annual Wellness Visits entail, what occurs during the appointment, and the importance of these visits for preventive care. Many Medicare patients may not be aware that they are eligible for these visits at no cost, nor do they fully understand the benefits that come with them.
Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about their Medicare benefits, which can play a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing potential issues. A complimentary box lunch will be provided for attendees, making this not only an informative session but also a convenient one.
This event is open to the community, emphasizing Massac Memorial Medical Clinics’ commitment to public health education. Interested individuals are encouraged to RSVP or seek further information by contacting Alicia Paris at 618-638-1348.
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.
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When: Today, March 20, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
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Where: Metropolis Public Library, 317 Metropolis Street
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What: A social hour for knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, and more
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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 28
10am-12pm Grace Church Community meal and pantry held on the last Saturday each month at 102 East 20th Street, Metropolis
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.
Sunday, March 29
Coming Up in Metropolis and Massac County Illinois
Your chance to get the Life is Good Red Cross shirt.
Come by, save a life, get a shirt!
Date Set for 1940's Steele Wings Swing Dance
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
#LiveBigBand 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.”
#NostalgicAtmosphere: 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 #WWIIMemorial project.
Event Logistics
When: Saturday, September 19, 2026
WMOK Coffee Break
WMOK's Coffee Break Program:
We invite you to text
questions and topics for our guests to
618-524-9209
Happy Hearts Senior Center Menu - March 2026
WMOK School and Sports News
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
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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