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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

7:56 PM

Thursday, May 14, 2026 (CDT)

Sunset in Metropolis, IL

5:46 AM
Friday, May 15, 2026 (CDT)
Sunrise in Metropolis, IL

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Traffic:

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

The Massac County-IL Highway Department has advised that yesterday’s Pell Rd closure will continue into today, just south of Unity School Rd.

The Country Club Rd closure has been extended to end approximately 5/20/26. A combination of factors has resulted in the extension.

Massac Unit 1 Title 9 Records Released; District Leadership Responds

WMOK – Metropolis, IL – Details of a 2024 Title 9 investigation involving former Massac County High School Athletic Director Patrick Clark have surfaced this week following an open records request by WPSD. The coverage has brought the incident to the forefront of the Massac County community news cycle.

The Investigation Details

According to the reported documents, the investigation centered on allegations of inappropriate communication between Clark and a student. The records detail several instances that raised concerns within the district.

District Findings and Employment Status

The formal investigation concluded that while Clark’s conduct did not technically meet the legal threshold for a Title IX violation, Superintendent Jason Hayes determined the behavior was “inappropriate” and “lacked professionalism.”

Following the 2024 investigation, Clark was removed from his position as Athletic Director. Superintendent Hayes confirmed to WMOK that Clark is still employed by the school system and is now working in the Special Education Department as an assistant.

Superintendent Availability

Superintendent Hayes joins WMOK on the second Wednesday of each month for our Coffee Break program. When we sat down earlier this week he was eager to speak with WMOK to address the matter and provide further context to the public.

Hayes advised WMOK that an investigation into the behavior began as soon as the screenshots of the text messages were received to determine if a violation of Title 9 had taken place. The investigation lasted 5 months.

Hayes told WMOK that the investigation did not find direct violations of Title 9; however, he and the board members deemed the texts inappropriate.

Action was taken by removing Clark from the position of Athletics Director. Hayes told WMOK that Clark is now working in the Special Education Department as an Assistant.

Hayes also told WMOK that if anything positive has come from the incident, it is that they have found that many staff members use their personal cell phones for student contact, especially in the world of athletics. With this issue brought to their attention, it has resulted in new policies in place.

Hayes said policies have been adjusted to eliminate contact between staff and either parents or students via personal electronic devices. A district-provided format MUST now be used for communications.

Additional Items:

WMOK asked Mr. Hayes how many complaints were received

WMOK asked Mr. Hayes to explain Title 9

WMOK asked Mr. Hayes how many Title 9 investigations have taken place in recent years

5.14.26 7:41am – Upon completion of reviewing our Coffee Break episode with Superintendent Hayes early this morning we have recalled that we revisited the Title 9 topic as we wrapped up the discussion of another topic. That audio has now been added to the following clip which was uploaded yesterday. You’ll find an additional 4-ish minutes at the end.

Audio: Decades of Rumors: Sheriff Kaylor Reflects on the Ongoing Lisa Carnes Case in Small Town – WMOK News – Metropolis IL

WMOK – Metropolis, IL – We had our first Coffee Break visit with Massac County Sheriff Chad Kaylor this week, following last week’s detention hearing for George E Bradfield in the 1984 murder of Lisa Carnes.

We’ll bring you our first segment below in which we discussed the decades long wait for more information through small town gossip.

Discussing the $9.6 Million Bond: Massac Unit 1 Superintendent Explains Recent District Financing

WMOK - Metropolis, IL - When Massac Unit 1 School Superintendent Jason Hayes joined WMOK for our Coffee Break program this week, one of our topics was an alleged discrepancy regarding the issuance of a bond. In February, the district issued an $8 million working cash bond. As of April, the bond was shown as $9.6 milli...

2h ago

Superintendent Hayes Speaks Exclusively with WMOK in Response to Title 9 Discussion in Massac Unit #1 - WMOK Metropolis - WMOK Coffee Break 3.13.26

WMOK - Metropolis, IL - Details of a 2024 Title 9 investigation involving former Massac County High School Athletic Director Patrick Clark have surfaced this week following an open records request by WPSD. The coverage has brought the incident to the forefront of the Massac County community news cycle. The Investigatio...

8h ago

Thursday WMOK Yellow Sheet - May 14, 2026 - Metropolis and Massac County News

WMOK Yellow Sheet Delivery - Thursday, May 14, 2026 Hello Metropolis, Massac County, and Beyond! Today's Essentials: sunset: 7:56 PM tonight. New Coin and Currency Club: Meets today at 5:30 PM This is an introductory session and refreshments will be provided. Saturday Morning: Make plans to visit the Farmers Market at ...

8h ago

Save the Date: Steele Wings Swing Dance 2026

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 paratr...

10h ago

4th Annual Senior Health & Fitness Day Coming to Fort Massac State Park

Massac Memorial Hospital has announced the return of the 4th Annual Senior Health & Fitness Day, scheduled for Tuesday, May 27, 2025. The event will take place at Fort Massac State Park, located at 1308 East 5th Street in Metropolis, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This free community gathering is specifically designed t...

14h ago

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National Etiquette Week

National Etiquette Week is currently being observed from May 11–15, 2026. This annual recognition focuses on the importance of courtesy, respect, and social protocol in all areas of life, including business, social, and digital interactions.

The “tenets” of etiquette (often called the three pillars) are designed to make people around you feel comfortable. While rules change with the times, these three foundations remain constant:

1. Consideration

- Think of others first: Anticipate how your actions affect those around you.
- Minimize Disturbance: Be mindful of your noise level, space, and timing.
- Show Empathy: Understand that everyone has different needs and boundaries.

2. Respect

- Value Time: Be punctual for meetings, dates, and social gatherings.
- Active Listening: Give people your full attention without checking your phone.
- Honor Differences: Acknowledge diverse backgrounds, opinions, and personal space.

3. Honesty

- Be Sincere: Offer genuine compliments and apologies, not just empty words.
- Kind Truth: Share information truthfully but without being intentionally hurtful.
- Integrity: Follow through on your promises and commitments.

Audio: The Immense Benefits of a Metropolis Library Card and How to Get One

– WMOK Talks with Colby Kennedy

Last Chance to Apply for Illinois EPA Electric Vehicle Rebate

Illinois residents can apply for the Electric Vehicle Rebate until May 31, 2026. The program offers rebates for new and used EVs, helping to promote sustainable transportation. For eligibility details and to apply, visit the Illinois EPA website: https://epa.illinois.gov/…/electric-vehicle-rebates.html

National Bike to Work Week

National Bike to Work Week 2026 runs from Monday, May 11, to Sunday, May 17, 2026. This week is a centerpiece of National Bike Month, an event established in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists to promote the health, environmental, and financial benefits of cycling.

🚲 Key Dates for 2026

- National Bike to Work Week: Monday, May 11 – Sunday, May 17.
- National Bike to Work Day: Friday, May 15.
- National Bike to School Day: Wednesday, May 6 (occurred earlier this month).

Why Participate?

- Health & Wellness: Regular cycling improves cardiovascular health, reduces stress, and boosts mental well-being.
- Financial Savings: Maintaining a bike costs roughly $300 annually, compared to over $8,000 for a car.
- Environmental Impact: Swapping a car for a bike for just one trip can cut CO2 emissions by up to 67%.
- Traffic Reduction: Twelve bicycles can fit into the parking space required for a single car, helping to ease urban congestion.

Tips for a Smooth Commute

Plan Your Route: Use local bike maps or apps like the Google Maps cycling layer to find low-stress paths and protected lanes.
Bike Check: Before riding, check your tire pressure, ensure your brakes work, and make sure your chain is lubed.
Gear Up: Wear a helmet and use lights if riding near dawn or dusk. Consider adding a cargo rack or basket to carry your work bag.
Office Prep: Keep a spare set of clothes at work or roll them in your bag to prevent wrinkles.

Fort Massac Water District Urges Customers to Update Contact Information for Enhanced Communication

WMOK – Massac County, IL – In a recent announcement, the Fort Massac Water District highlighted the importance of maintaining accurate contact information for its customers. The district has discovered that many customers have outdated phone numbers listed in their system, which can hinder effective communication during critical situations.

To address this issue, the Fort Massac Water District is now offering the capability to send text messages with important updates – including alerts for water outages and boil orders. To ensure that all customers receive timely notifications, the district is encouraging everyone to fill out a designated form to update their phone numbers.

Customers are asked to click on the provided link and complete a separate form for each property they own within the district. This initiative aims to bolster communication and ensure that residents are informed about essential service updates.

Update Your Information with Fort Massac Water District Here

Coming Up in Metropolis and Massac County

National Nursing Home Week: 10-16

National Etiquette Week: 11-15

National Bike to Work Week: 11-15

Thursday, May 14

New Coin and Currency Club
to Meet in Metropolis

New club serves the Southern Illinois region and welcomes anyone with an interest in coins, currency, or related collectibles. Refreshments will be provided for all attendees during this introductory session.

5:30P – Sons of the American Legion – American Legion 921 Market St – 2nd Thursday of the month

6P – American Legion Post 306 Meeting – American Legion 921 Market St – 2nd Thursday of the month

Friday, May 15

COPE Food Pantry Distribution
Metropolis (Main Site)Location: 1013 North Avenue, Metropolis, IL
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

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: 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, May 16

National Safe Boating Week: 16-22

Sunday, May 17

National Unicycle Week: 17-23

EMS Week: 17-23 (3rd Full Week)

Save the Date: Steele Wings Swing Dance 2026

10h ago 51 views

4th Annual Senior Health & Fitness Day Coming to Fort Massac State Park

14h ago 59 views

Audio: The Immense Benefits of a Metropolis Library Card and How to Get One - WMOK Talks with Colby Kennedy

15h ago 14 views

Pool Party Reservations are Now Open at the Metropolis City Pool - 5.11.26 - WMOK Metropolis

Summer is Coming: Grab Your Pool Party Spot!** Get ready for some summer fun because pool party reservations open today, Monday, May 11th! For $200, you can reserve a two-hour block from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. It's a great way to hang out with friends and family and celebrate special occasions. Dates tend to fill up super...

15h ago 86 views

Splash into Summer Metropolis - with Water Aerobics!

This summer, residents are invited to join Water Aerobics starting June 2nd, a fun and low-impact way to enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. With classes now offered on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and a new Tuesday evening option from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, there's a ti...

15h ago 124 views

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

Metropolis City Pool 2026: New Rules, New Rates, and "Teen Passes"

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, Ma...

15h ago 883 views

New Metropolis Sales Tax Begins in July - WMOK Talks with Mayor Jeffords

When Metropolis Mayor Gregg Jeffords joined us recently at WMOK for our Coffee Break Program, we discussed the 1% Sales Tax to take effect in Metropolis in July. Hear our complete discussion on the topic in the Soundcloud player below:

Apr 06, 2026 676 views

Superintendent Hayes Speaks Exclusively with WMOK in Response to Title 9 Discussion in Massac Unit #1 - WMOK Metropolis - WMOK Coffee Break 3.13.26

8h ago 477 views

George E. Bradfield Back in Massac County Court Tomorrow - Looking Back: Discussion with Massac County Sheriff Chad Kaylor from March of 2023

WMOK - Metropolis, IL - George E. Bradfield is making his way back to Massac County Court tomorrow afternoon after being brought in from the Tri-County Detention Center in Ullin, Illinois. It's an event that locals are keeping an eye on, and WMOK will be there to cover the proceedings. In reviewing some of our previous...

May 05, 2026 452 views

Coffee Break - WMOK's Community Affairs Program -

The Coffee Break is a long-standing tradition for those listening in Metropolis, Massac County, and beyond. Airing select weekdays following the 8 a.m. News Check, it's a chance to settle in and hear what's really happening across our local communities. Who's Talking: We visit with local leaders, community organizers, ...

May 03, 2026 320 views

Coming Up This Week On WMOK's Coffee Break Program:

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

Don’t Forget To Text For Your Free Subscription

Get Massac County and Metropolis IL News – Delivered To Your Text Message Inbox 5 Days a Week

Text News to WMOK at 618-524-9209

CLICK TO TEXT NEWS

Listen at 920AM on your radio or streaming worldwide at 920wmok.com

WMOK School and Sports News

Shawnee Community College:

Today marks the start of Book Buyback Week! You can turn your textbooks into CASH!

Stop by the Campus Bookstore Monday through Thursday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., or Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and noon to return your books.

Questions?

Contact the Bookstore at bookstore@shawneecc.edu or call 618-634-3218.

https://bookstore.shawneecc.edu/home

Tuesday is the Allied Health Pinning Ceremony at 6:00 p.m. on Main campus.

Wednesday is the Highway Construction Careers Training Program Graduation at 1:00 p.m. at Mighty Rivers Regional Worship Center in Cairo.

Thursday is the Practical Nursing Pinning Ceremony at 6:00 p.m. on the Main campus.

Friday is Commencement. The ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m. on the Main campus. (It’ll also stream live on YouTube; the link will be shared here that evening.)

Saturday is the Little Saints Book Club at the Johnson Co. Extension Center (Vienna High School).

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.