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By Jason Koch, editor
The Edwardsville Intelligencer
There are days when I wonder whether our work makes any difference — whether the stories we tell actually matter.
I'll scroll through local social media and see people asking questions about stories we've covered again and again. It makes me wonder whether our work just vanishes into the noise of everyday life.
But every so often, something happens that reminds me just how powerful local journalism can be.
Just recently, we had a story about thousands of Madison County residents losing their SNAP benefits during the government shutdown. Jane Ahasay, the Glen- Ed Pantry's executive director, told me the community responded by donating more than 10,000 pounds of food. Those contributions made life just a little easier for thousands of people in need.
Seeing people come out and donate in droves reminded me that information doesn't just change minds — it can save lives.
The spirit that drives neighbors to help keep the food pantry stocked is the same spirit that drives voters to shape our community. Both are acts that show we care about one another.
Civic participation — whether it's attending a meeting, volunteering, or casting a vote — is simply another way of helping your neighbors. And that's why we've been working so hard to ask the candidates running to represent you in the U.S. Senate what they will do to ensure your voices are heard in Washington, D.C.
Since August, our newsroom has reached out to all 22 candidates for the U.S. Senate. We've spoken with most — Democrats and Republicans alike — and continue reaching out to the rest to get them on record about how they plan to represent you and the needs of this community.
Too often, Madison County residents feel forgotten. Decisions made hundreds of miles away shape our schools, farms, and families — yet those decisions rarely include voices from here. That's why we've asked every candidate — no matter where they come from — what representing southern Illinois really means. Some candidates have leaned on talking points, while others have given thoughtful, detailed responses worth your time to hear. The videos of every interview we've done so far are available both at theintelligencer.com and on our Facebook page. I strongly encourage you to check them out and to listen to each candidate, regardless of your party affiliation or ideology.
This crowded field offers something too often missing in elections — real choice. You won't agree with every candidate, but you're almost certain to find someone you can proudly support. And then, as a community, we can make our voices heard at the ballot box in the same way we rallied to fill the shelves at the Glen-Ed Pantry.
A well-informed electorate is a powerful one — and that's what drives us to keep asking hard questions and making sure southern Illinois isn't left out of the conversation.
These decisions slip away from us when we don't show up. We can report, explain, and question — but only you can decide.
So, when you read our coverage, listen to a candidate, or talk to your neighbors — remember that it matters. Your attention matters. Your vote matters.
Because in the end, that's what local journalism is about — helping a community see itself, believe in itself, and make itself heard.
And on the days when I wonder whether this work really matters, it's your actions — your compassion, your curiosity, your vote — that remind me why it does.
Jason Koch is the editor of The Edwardsville Intelligencer. He can be reached at Jason.Koch@hearst.com. Jason Koch
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 7, 2026 Media Contact Information: Aunt Millie's Bakeries Melissa Koeneman, director of marketing (260) 417-2581 mkoeneman@auntmillies.com
John F. Popp, President of Aunt Millie’s Bakeries
FORT WAYNE, Indiana — Aunt Millie’s Bakeries is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its President John F. Popp, who died on Friday, July 31, at the age of 94. A third-generation member of the family business, John’s leadership, optimism, faith, and unwavering commitment to people helped shape the company and its culture for more than four decades. John Franke Popp was born March 2, 1932, to Lucile and Les Sr. Popp. He grew up with his older brother, Les Jr., on Forest Park Boulevard in Fort Wayne and graduated from Northside High School in 1950. He went on to attend the University of Michigan, graduating in 1954, and entered the U.S. Army that same year. He served as a second lieutenant before returning home following his military service. John was offered an opportunity to begin a career as an analyst with T. Rowe Price, but his path ultimately led him back to Fort Wayne and the family bakery. At his mother’s urging, he returned home to join the business — a decision that would shape not only his own life, but the future of generations of the Popp family and Aunt Millie’s employees. Long before his career in baking, John developed a love for Lake Wawasee and water skiing, eventually becoming the Indiana state slalom water ski champion. It was at the lake that he met Esther Rolene, the love of his life. They married on June 19, 1960, and spent the next decades building a life together, raising two sons and creating countless memories with family and friends. Even with the demands of running a growing company, John made time for what mattered most, including cheering his sons on from the sidelines at their baseball and football games.
John F. Popp and his wife, Esther Rolene Popp
In 1967, John stepped away from the family bakery to pursue a career in real estate, where he developed the subdivisions of Devil’s Hollow, Manitou, Lakewood, West Hamilton Estates, White Loon, and Winding Brook. In 1980, he returned to Perfection Bakeries, where he helped guide the company through a period of significant growth and expansion. The company that would become known as Aunt Millie’s grew under his leadership into one of the largest family-owned baking companies in the United States. John viewed the people around him as an important part of that success. He loved being part of the team and was known for his optimism, encouragement, and genuine care for employees. His leadership was not simply about growing a business; it was about building an organization where people could grow, contribute, and feel that they were part of something bigger than themselves. A third-generation leader of the family-owned bakery founded in 1901, John was deeply committed to protecting and building upon the legacy established by his grandfather, John B. Franke. His influence also reached beyond Aunt Millie’s. He was a passionate advocate for independent bakeries across the country, working with industry organizations to strengthen and protect family-owned businesses. He believed in the importance of education and workforce development and encouraged lifelong learning within the company while supporting the next generation of leaders in the baking industry. In recognition of his contributions to the baking industry, John was inducted into the Baking Hall of Fame by the American Society of Bakers and Engineers in 2021. He also served the state of Indiana after being appointed by Governor Mike Pence to serve on the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. While John’s professional accomplishments were many, those closest to him knew that his faith and family were at the center of his life. He cherished Bible Study Fellowship and worshiped at The Chapel and Wawasee Lakeside Chapel. He was quietly generous and found joy in serving others through organizations including the Euell Wilson Center, Women’s Care Center, and Ratio Christi. John enjoyed spring breaks in Florida, trips to Maine, his ’61 Corvette, and working on projects at the lake. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life, but most of all, he loved his family. His greatest legacy will not be measured solely by the company he helped build, but by the family he loved, the people he encouraged, the lives he touched, and the values he carried with him throughout his life. “John Popp believed that success was built on people,” said Rick Brown, Chief Customer Officer. “He cared deeply about our employees, our customers, our communities, and the generations of families who have made Aunt Millie’s a trusted name. His leadership was defined by humility, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right.” John’s passing leaves a tremendous loss for the Popp family, the Aunt Millie’s family, and the many people and organizations whose lives he touched. While the company mourns his loss, Aunt Millie’s leadership team remains committed to carrying forward the mission, values, and legacy John championed throughout his life. Daily operations will continue uninterrupted as the company moves forward under its established leadership plan. The Popp family extends its heartfelt appreciation for the many expressions of sympathy and support received during this difficult time. Memorial service information will be shared at a later date. About Aunt Millie’s Bakeries Founded in 1901 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Aunt Millie’s Bakeries is one of the largest family-owned bakeries in the Midwest, serving customers across six states with fresh bread, buns, rolls, bagels, and other baked goods. For more than a century, the company has remained committed to quality, innovation, and serving the communities it calls home.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 21, 2026 Media Contact Information: Michael Korman, highway commissioner North Township Road District (847) 728-7055 mike.korman@northfieldtownship.com
Northfield Township Road District’s Phase II project placed in Group 1, the top tier, of MWRD’s 2026 Stormwater Partnership Program; construction could begin as early as 2027
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