Macon Magazine

A small notice marked the end of a long chapter in Macon history.

In our latest issue, Debbie R. Blankenship explores why Bibb County changed its legal organ designation after more than 200 years and what that means for the future of public notices.

“Hopefully, the law will evolve to reflect how people actually consume information today. Digital platforms, our websites, our social media - could be far more effective vehicles for legal notice than print alone.”

Read the full story in Macon Magazine.

Leadership takes place in all seasons, as an ecosystem that requires everyone to play their part. When a community decides to keep showing up for itself, it doesn’t always look the way we expect it to.

Sometimes behind a well-known elected official is a city clerk making it happen, who knows exactly how to find a public record to increase citizen transparency. Or, a trial lawyer who’s seen success in the courtroom changes the face of his downtown. A local doctor takes a chance on becoming an entrepreneur to share solutions found while working with countless patients. A native Maconite goes from Central High School to nationwide news at a presidential center and library in Chicago. And they all recall the place where they began to grow.

In the microcosms of Macon and Central Georgia, change happens on new sidewalks and creative public library programs. There’s pride in preserving one’s home as much as breaking ground on new institutions.

The August/September Leadership Issue (on stands this week) celebrates people doing work across our region that helps us bloom.

Speaking of playing their part, inside you’ll meet (or learn anew) people who have taken on many roles onstage and off.

2026 Five Under 40 Young Leaders
Lauren Marshall, Vice President for Community Development, NewTown Macon

Colin Penndorf, Owner, Shape & Space Art Management Ocmulgee Artist Guild

Onica Schmidt, General Counsel and Chief Legal Affairs Officer, Middle GA State University

Julia Morrison, Executive Director, The Piedmont Grand Opera House Robins Financial Capitol Theatre, Mercer University

Melissa Rodriguez-McClain, Nonprofit Management | Community Engagement Coordinator, El Refugio

Turn these pages to read more about their work, lives, and causes that matter.

Explore leaders who make an impact at all ages and dive into pages about public transit, local government, the arts, preservation, and more.

We hope these stories leave you with a deeper appreciation for the people shaping Macon, often without much fanfare, and for the many ways leadership takes root.

Photo by Jessica Whitley

Our latest feature takes readers inside several historic Neel Reid homes and explores the craftsmanship, character, and people keeping these spaces alive.

“With an old house, it’s always like unraveling a mystery.” - Julia Anne Morrison

Pick up the latest issue and take a closer look inside these remarkable homes.

Written by Sarah Leonardo | Moment Collector of Root Bound Media | Creative Brand Building | Photgraphy by Cedric Smith

One of the best parts of putting together our Music Issue? Discovering music we can’t stop playing.

Now it’s your turn. Our 2026 Music Issue playlist is live on Spotify. Give it a listen, find a new favorite, and support local artists.

Time is almost up!

The Great Macon Baking Week wraps up Wednesday at noon, which means it’s your last chance to:

Vote for your favorite stop
Return your completed passport to Visit Macon to be entered to win the grand prize of $25 gift cards from all participating businesses.

Ready? Head here: maconmagazine.com

South of Atlanta Fest wasn’t just about the music. It was about community.

“It’s cool to be a part of events that feel genuine in their intention to bring people together.”

Read the full feature in the latest issue of Macon Magazine.

Story by Sarah Leonardo | Moment Collector | Photo by Melessa Mims

If you’re headed to Bragg Jam this weekend, take a few minutes to get to know one of the artists you’ll see on stage.

“Macon chose me. I would say it’s a historical reconnection as well.” - Bocafloja

Our latest conversation with Bocafloja covers music, belonging, and finding connection in Macon.

Interview by Susannah Cox Maddux | Photography by Dsto Moore Motivate Photo

Known as the “Sax-tavist,” the Pleasant Hill native shares how music became his path away from trouble and toward purpose. In our latest feature, Chris Harvey reflects on the instrument that changed his future and why he believes music has the power to heal, uplift, and transform lives.

“Music helps me understand my emotions; it’s a big part of coping. Listening to music helps you unlock and realize things about yourself.”

Read When Harmony is Healing in the latest issue of Macon Magazine.

Story by Brittny

Macon Baking Week 2026: Sunday July 19 - July 25

Kicking off another delicious week of competition, creativity, and community spirit, Macon Baking Week 2026 begins today.

Now in its fourth year, Macon Baking Week has grown into a citywide celebration of culinary artistry, hometown pride, and just the right amount of sugar in the July sun. From show-stopping cakes and cobblers to savory flavors and ice-cream stuffed cookie sandwiches, bakers of all backgrounds and experience levels will bring their best to Central Georgia’s tastebuds.

✔️ Pick up a passport at participating businesses or Visit Macon (450 MLK Jr. Blvd.).
🍰🍪🍩🍭🧁Try the treats at all locations.
🗳️ Vote for the best at maconmagazine.com.

🏆 Participants who try all and submit their stamped passport to Visit Macon will be entered to win a $25 gift card to all participating businesses.

Macon Baking Week is presented by Macon Magazine in partnership with Visit Macon .

Dovetail
PISTACHIO COOKIE & GOLDEN MILK ICE CREAM SANDWICH
Dovetail Macon

Sweet Eleanor’s
SOUTHERN PEACH COBBLER COOKIE SKILLET
Sweet Eleanor’s

Natalia’s
STRAWBERRY CRÈME CAKE
Natalia's Restaurant

Macon Bagels
GEORGIA PEACH SHORTCAKE
Macon Bagels

Sweet Affairzz
BANANA PUDDING SANDWICH COOKIE
Ramichael N Pamela Anthony

Felicia’s Cake Factory
COOKIE BUTTER CAKE SLICE
Felicia's Cake Factory, LLC

Satterfield’s
DICKEY FARMS SMOKED PEACH CHEESECAKE
Satterfield’s BBQ

Layers
SUGAR COOKIE CAKE
Layers

Yollah
HOUSE-MADE BROWNIE SKILLET
Yollah Social Kitchen + Garden

The Mule Barn
PEACH PRALINE ROLL
The Mule Barn Cafe

Village Coffee
POP TART FLIGHT (PIÑA COLADA, KEY LIME & BANANA)
Village Coffee

Dawson’s Kitchen
STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE CUPCAKE
Dawson's Kitchen Official

Acres & Oak
PETIT FOURS
Acres & Oak Kitchen

J. Reid’s Tavern
JONATHAN’S OLIVE OIL CAKE
J. Reid’s Tavern

Bearfoot Tavern
CINNAMON APPLE CALZONE
Bearfoot Tavern

The Great Macon Baking Week returns July 19-25! Pick up your passport, visit participating businesses, collect stamps, indulge in incredible desserts, and you’ll be entered to win gift cards from participating businesses.

Whether you’re loyal to cookies, cupcakes, pies, pastries, or something in between, this is your excuse to treat yourself all week long.

Pick up your passport, beginning Friday, July 17.