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Hello Metropolis, Massac County and Beyond!

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Wednesday, May 27, 2026 (CDT)

Sunset in Metropolis, IL

5:38 AM

Thursday, May 28, 2026 (CDT)

Sunrise in Metropolis, IL

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Trial Date Solidified for 1984 Lisa Carnes Cold Case:

George Bradfield to Stand Trial in July on Five Counts

METROPOLIS, IL — Following a slight respite, the 42-year-old cold case in Massac County returned to the Massac County Courthouse on Tuesday morning.

George E. Bradfield was in court for a pre-trial hearing regarding the 1984 death of Lisa Carnes. The case is scheduled for trial this summer, with Bradfield facing five criminal counts.

Inside the Courtroom

The courtroom was called to order at 9:23 AM. A separate judge handled a series of civil matters first, clearing the morning’s initial docket before Judge William J. Thurston took the bench to oversee the criminal proceedings.

Bradfield entered Courtroom 1 at 10:15 AM wearing handcuffs, a change from the leg shackles he wore during his initial appearance in April.

Bradfield, an older man with grey hair and a hefty frame, moved slowly into the courtroom. Once seated, he looked to his defense counsel for the specialized assistive hearing device he has relied on in previous hearings. Deputies removed his handcuffs, allowing him to attach the device, put on his reading glasses, and review notes with Defense Attorney Cervantez.

Key Rulings and Trial Timeline

Once the hearing got underway, the court confirmed that the state and defense teams had previously met in chambers to finalize scheduling.

July Trial Scheduled: The start date for the jury trial remains set for July 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM.
Other Crimes Evidence: The State advised that they have entered discovery on notice to allow evidence of allegations of other crimes at trial. Attorney Cervantez advised the court that the defense has received the notice.
Weekly Zoom Schedule: Judge Thurston established a standing pre-trial status conference via Zoom to take place every Tuesday at 9:00 AM, starting next week on June 2.
Continued Detention: The court upheld the order for continued pretrial detention, citing that keeping Bradfield in custody is necessary to protect public safety and to mitigate a flight risk.

Timeline of Lisa Carnes Massac County Murder Cold Case – WMOK Metropolis

WMOK will continue to cover the developments closely on a local level moving forward as we add information to the extensive timeline here.

Old-School Fun: Fort Massac to Host 18th Century Children’s Table-top Games Event

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.

Massac County High School Class of 1989 Plans Summer Reunion

The Massac County High School Class of 1989 is officially gearing up for a summer celebration. A “Save the Date” announcement has been issued for the upcoming class reunion, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

The event will be held at the Elks Lodge in Metropolis, offering classmates a great local venue to gather and catch up. Attendees can look forward to a casual and fun evening, with a taco bar set to be served. Organizers note that more specific details regarding the reunion will be released soon.

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, 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:

Wednesday WMOK Yellow Sheet - May 27, 2026 - Metropolis and Massac County News

Hello Metropolis, Massac County, and Beyond! Today's 📲 WMOK Yellow Sheet Update - May 27, 2026 Cold Case Trial Date Set: George Bradfield's trial date is locked in for this summer regarding the 1984 Lisa Carnes case. Get the link to full case timeline inside. Metropolis City Pool Rules: Updates to the 2026 swim seas...

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The Master of Horror

Born May 27, 1911, Vincent Price became an enduring icon of horror cinema. Renowned for his theatrical flair and spine-chilling voice, he starred in over 100 films, defining the genre with classics like House of Wax and chilling Edgar Allan Poe adaptations. The legendary actor passed away on October 25, 1993.

A Catchy Anthem of Resilience

Released on May 27, 1933, Walt Disney’s The Three Little Pigs became an instant cultural icon. Directed by Burt Gillett, this legendary Silly Symphony short won an Academy Award and became a surprise box-office smash. Its enduring success was largely fueled by its catchy, uplifting message of resilience.

Country's Gentle Giant

Born May 27, 1939, in Floydada, Texas, Don Williams became country music’s “Gentle Giant.” Renowned for his smooth bass-baritone voice and laid-back style, he scored 17 number-one hits and earned a 2010 Country Music Hall of Fame induction. The legendary artist passed away on September 8, 2017, at age 78.

High-Speed Box Office Gold

On May 27, 1977, Smokey and the Bandit rolled into theaters, becoming an instant pop culture phenomenon. The high-octane action-comedy smashed expectations, grossing roughly $126 million against a modest $4.3 million budget. Its legendary success made it the year’s second highest-grossing film, trailing only Star Wars.

Coming Up in Metropolis and Massac County

Sully’s Announces Free Kids Meals Starting May 30, 2026

WMOK – Metropolis, IL – Sully’s is excited to announce the return of its popular Free Kids Meals program, set to kick off on Saturday, May 30, 2026. This year, the beloved initiative will take place specifically on Saturdays rather than Tuesdays, offering families a wonderful opportunity to enjoy meals together without the burden of cost.

Parents can call in to reserve their meals between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM, with pickup available from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM. This scheduling remains unchanged from previous years, ensuring convenience for all participants.

While the program aims to serve as many children as possible, there will be a few notable exceptions. Families should take note that Free Kids Meals will not be available on certain dates, specifically June 13 and July 4, so planning ahead is encouraged.

Sully’s looks forward to welcoming familiar faces and new families alike to the launch of the program on May 30. It promises to be a great start to the summer, fostering community and providing delicious meals for kids.

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

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

Wednesday, May 27

LOCATION CHANGE – TAKING PLACE AT HAPPY HEARTS SENIOR CENTER, 7th and PEARL IN METROPOLIS

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, May 28

Friday, May 29

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 30

10am-12pm Grace Church Community meal and pantry held on the last Saturday each month at 102 East 20th Street, Metropolis

Fish Fry and Craft Bazaar on May 30th from 12-5 at the Harry Statham gym in Brookport

Sunday, May 31

Old-School Fun: Fort Massac to Host 18th Century Children’s Table-top Games Event

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

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.

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 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.

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Old-School Fun: Fort Massac to Host 18th Century Children's Table-top Games Event

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 sched...

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Massac County High School Class of 1989 Plans Summer Reunion

The Massac County High School Class of 1989 is officially gearing up for a summer celebration. A "Save the Date" announcement has been issued for the upcoming class reunion, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026. The event will be held at the Elks Lodge in Metropolis, offering classmates...

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