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September/October 2026

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CONTRIBUTORS 1. Alycia Calderin is a Florida native who moved to Georgia in 2013, where she planted roots with her husband of 16 years. When she’s not balancing the whirlwind of activities for her four kids, she escapes into the world of books.

2. Gail Mihalik lives in Rincon with Scott, her high school sweetheart, and their two rescue dogs. Chef by trade with over 50 years of experience, she spends most of her time living, loving, and sharing the history and culture of the area.

3. Scott Douglas Miller is a broadcaster celebrating 50 years in radio as an air personality, news director, event DJ and content provider several publications. He Originally from Mississippi, Scott shares a home in Rincon with his high school sweetheart, Gail.

4. Gail Parsons has more than 30 years experience writing for magazines and newspapers. She most enjoys feature writing because it allows her to share the stories of interesting and inspiring people. She is also an artist and enjoys traveling and spending time at the beach.

5. Stephen Prudhomme is a native of New

Jersey who lived in Savannah and Rincon for 25 years before moving to Pikeville, TN, with his wife and son. He’s written sports, features, news and business for a number of newspapers and magazines over nearly 40 years and likes table tennis, Frisbee and running.

6. Cindy Reid has been a freelance writer for over 15 years. A native of New York’s Hudson Valley, she embodies the saying “I wasn’t born in the South but I got here as soon as I could.” She can usually be found on a beach, a boat or at a pier at sunset.

7. Claire Sandow is a marketing professional who lives in Savannah with her husband, daughter and cat. In her spare time, she enjoys pursuing her many hobbies, including knitting, crocheting, quilting and running.

8. Katrice Williams is a married mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration degree and later pursued her writing interests. Katrice appreciates the Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings He has bestowed upon her. She loves spending time with her family.

10 Jan Southern, DPA CEO/Publisher

9. Laura Zielinski is a freelance graphic designer specializing in print design. When she’s not working, she loves spending time with her husband Keith and their three beautiful children.

10. Mabel, morale officer, enjoys roaming the backyard at home, sitting for hours on the back porch and coming to the office to greet visitors and encourage the staff. Mabel loves getting treats and taking long naps in her mommy’s office in the afternoons. 4

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Chris Antonio Office Manager

Penny Redmond Distribution

Kelsey Harrison Account Executive

IN THIS ISSUE 6

Publisher’s Letter

10 Echo from the Past: Historic Bryan County Home Remains a Family Affair

16 Savannah Tech Brings Home the Gold 20 Backpacks of Love 22 Bryan County Happenings 24 Ride Like Mike Michael Jordan Bikes 950 Miles for Gold Star Mothers

28 Moming Unfiltered

The Moment You Realize You’ve Become “The Voice in Their Head”

29 Survey Results What Bryan County residents are saying

32 Bryan Events Calendar 33 The Corner Table Crafted and Co.: A Hidden Gem in Richmond Hill

24 FIND US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK

Read all the stories and more at BryanCountyMagazine.com

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

PUBLISHER’S THOUGHTS

Discover Bryan

PUBLISHER Jan Southern Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com 912-318-8645

For the second year, we are excited to bring you our Discover Bryan County issue, a celebration of the people, places and stories that make this community such a remarkable place to call home. There is always something new to discover here. Sometimes it is a piece of history that has been quietly preserved for generations. And often, it is the people whose compassion, determination and service remind us of what community really means.

CLIENT SERVICES Kelsey Harrison, Account Executive Kelsey@JDelSURMarketing.com OFFICE MANAGER Chris Antonio DESIGN Laura Zielinski

Jan Southern

In this issue, we introduce you to Melodie Lane and Backpacks of Love, a program helping ensure Bryan County students facing food insecurity have meals for the weekend. It is a beautiful example of neighbors taking care of neighbors.

DISTRIBUTION Penny Redmond

Bryan County Magazine is proudly produced by:

We also step back in time at Glen Echo, one of Bryan County’s oldest homes, where generations of family history are being preserved alongside an extraordinary piece of the county’s past. Our resident foodie, Corner Table writer Gail Mihalik, takes us to Crafted & Co., a Richmond Hill hidden gem where creative small plates, cocktails and a cozy atmosphere make dining out feel like a discovery of its own. And in “Ride Like Mike,” you’ll meet Michael J. Jordan on his remarkable 950-mile bicycle ride to Washington, D.C., helped bring attention to Gold Star Mothers and the sacrifices behind our freedom. These stories are very different, but together they capture something important about Bryan County: its history, its heart, its character and the people who continue to shape its future. Whether you have lived here your entire life or are just beginning to explore, I hope this issue inspires you to look a little closer and Discover Bryan County all over again.

CEO/Publisher Bryan County Magazine

135 Goshen Rd Ext., Suite 251, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-5406 PoolerMagazine.com J. DelSUR Marketing Group is the publisher of Effingham Magazine, Pooler Magazine and Bryan County Magazine in South Georgia. We are a full service marketing agency with products that include print, digital and social media marketing.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write and tell us what you think. Bryan Count Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor. Please send letters to Jan Southern at Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published. ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Bryan County Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea or photos to share, please submit ideas and material to Jan Southern at Jan@ JDelSURMarketing.com. Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in the Bryan County area will be considered. CIRCULATION: Bryan County Magazine is published bimonthly and distributed to hundreds of locations throughout the area, as well as mailed to thousands of homes. The full magazine is available online at BryanCountyMagazine.com. Views expressed in editorial or advertising do not imply endorsement by J. DelSUR Marketing Group. Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

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After renovations 10

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Echo from the Past Historic Bryan County Home Remains a Family Affair Story by Stephen Prudhomme

udy Mingledorff visited Glen Echo when she was 4 years old. She doesn’t remember much about the home, which dates back to the 1770s and has a connection to King George III and General Sherman, but recalls a live oak tree in the front yard. The tree and home are still there and so is Mingledorff, who has a much clearer picture of the abode than on her first visit after moving into it with her husband in 2020 and doing an extensive renovation. Mingledorff inherited the Bryan County home and Before renovations property of just under 2,000 acres from her second cousin Edward Everett, who passed away in 2020. The home had been vacant since 1987, when another second cousin, Pauline Morgan, died after living in the pre-Revolutionary War place for a number of years. Mingledorff and her husband, McRay Caudell, moved from Dawsonville to Glen Echo. Although Everett had done his best to provide some nominal upkeep for the home and property, he lived elsewhere and had to rely on outside help. Mingledorff and Caudell had their work cut out for them as far as making the family home habitable. “It’s quite a bit of work to do,” said Mingledorff, who owned a 5-acre horse farm in Dawsonville with her husband. “We removed all the furniture and rotten wood, put in new wood floors, tongue and groove wood walls, kitchen cabinets and counters, and redid the plumbing and wiring. Outside, we pushed back the overgrowth and restored the grounds, where a number of trees had fallen.” Calling on their experience of owning a horse farm, Mingledorff said she and her husband are working on having horses, cattle and ducks. In the meantime, they’re deriving income from the harvesting of pine trees on their property and doing whatever it takes to keep Glen Echo up and running. “My husband owns an equipment business,” Mingledorff said. “I work several part time jobs. We have to keep working; they earn additional income by renting out for parties a 40x40 pavilion they built near their home. The home was built in the early Plantation Plane architectural style and featured a large living room and second room downstairs, a winding staircase that had a cabinet at its base and a small room at the top of the stairs and a larger room over the living room that was used as a sleeping area. Mingledorff said an extension was added to the split level, “shotgun house” in the 1800s that included two rooms, a kitchen and porch. Other than visiting Glen Echo as a child, Mingledorff said she didn't know much about its history until moving into the home. She’s learned it’s a storied one, made all the more special due to the family connection. The story of the historic place and the families who called it home are found, ironically, at vanishingeorgia.com. Still plainly visible although changed from its original appearance, Glen Echo is the oldest house in Bryan County and one of the oldest in Georgia. It’s part of a 400-acre grant made by King George III to Abraham and Israel Bird and Hugh Bryan on Jan. 1, 1771. Speculation is Burgund Bird

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Images of the home and property before the renovations.

started construction on the house in 1773 and passed it down to his two sons, Sylvanus and Abraham. The Birds were millers and likely chose the land based on its proximity to two creeks, one of which was known as Birds Mill Creek and is now Mill Creek; the other is Black Creek. Mingledorff noted there’s a mill two miles from the home and there are intact dams. By 1802, records show, Andrew Bird, Sr., owned the home and had three sons and one daughter, Isabel, who married Salzburger descendant Joshua Smith in 1824. The couple’s son, Albert Glenn Smith, inherited the house and property from his mother’s bachelor uncles and moved in after his marriage to Elizabeth Van Brackle in 1858. With Smith taking residence, the place became known as Glen Echo. The Mingledorffs entered the scene in the early 1890s, after Ophelia Smith married Victor Mingledorff. Seven years later, the country was divided by the start of the Civil War. Smith was a captain of the Bryan Independent

Riflemen, 1st Company, 25th Georgia Volunteer Infantry and trained soldiers at Fort McAllister. Breastwork (trenches) were built on the property and along the nearby road and used by Confederate troops. That didn’t prevent General Sherman from seizing Glen Echo toward the end of the war and threatening to burn the property down during his March to the Sea. “He told my greatgreat grandmother, Mabel-Bird Smith, to put everything she could fit into the house,” Mingledorff said. “That included family, livestock, crops… He burned the property and buildings but spared the house. It was toward the end of the war, and my great-great grandfather, Albert Glen Smith, was an officer in the Confederate Army; orders mandated that only unoccupied houses be burned. Sherman burned a storehouse, smokehouse, corncrib and barn among five buildings, all of which were rebuilt after the Civil War.

“It’s a real privilege knowing so many generations have lived here before us. Sitting on the porch and taking care of the critters… It’s a living history out here.”

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

The Civil War revolved around the issue of slavery, and Mingledorff said her family, as plantation owners who grew tobacco and cotton and raised livestock, owned slaves. At the onset of the Civil War, records show, A.G. Smith owned 17 slaves. Ironically, descendants of those slaves attend a Baptist church near Glen Echo. “We look out for one another,” said Mingledorff, noting they donated an acre of their property to church, which has held purchased baptisms in a nearby creek. “We’re good neighbors.” One neighbor wasn’t so good. According to Mingledorff, the man routinely moved property lines at Glen Echo and neighboring homes in the 1960s so he could cut timber. Everett took the man to court and, according to Mingledorff’s aunt, Gayle Mingledorff, was involved with legal proceedings for two years before finally emerging victorious. “Ed fought for two years and we believe was the only person to win against that individual,” said Gayle, who spent summers as a child at Glen Echo. “He loved Glen Echo and said he wasn’t going to let this man continue to cut timber on his land. He was a formidable person. We’ve very glad he did it.” Gayle said Everett was equally passionate when it came to the subject of slavery and his family. “He said they treated them well,” Gayle said. “He was very adamant about that.” She noted that Ed Murchison, known as the Mayor of Ellabell, was likely a descendant of slaves from Glen Echo and cared for the property when Edward Everett lived and worked outside of town. “He was just a gentleman,” Gayle said. During summer visits, Gayle recalls, she watched her paternal grandmother churning butter in the kitchen. Also living there at the time was a cousin, Miss Pauline, a longtime teacher in Bryan County who was a strict disciplinarian in the classroom, and her grandmother’s sister, Mamie. Features taken for granted in modern homes were not part of Glen Echo’s early years. “There was no kitchen,” Gayle said. “There were two chimneys and fireplaces everywhere. That was their heat and where they did the cooking.” Gayle has fond memories of her time spent at Glen Echo. “It was a wonderful place to go to visit my dad’s family,” Gayle said. “It was a wonderful farm. I saw horses, cows, chickens, hogs and lots of cats. It seemed like there were hundreds them. I remember the live oak tree Judy mentioned seeing as a girl and a limb close to the ground. I used it as a swing.” Glen Echo was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978; Hwy. 204

originally ran through the property but was rerouted in the 1970s. Judy and her husband are committed to preserving that history and ensuring the home remains in the family while enjoying the bucolic setting and the feeling of being part of a continuing legacy going back to a time before this country gained its independence from the country that made Glen Echo possible. “There’s a real feeling of comfort here,” Judy said. “I feel like we belong here and are with family. It’s awesome. There are tons of natural light. It’s a real privilege knowing so many generations have lived here before us. Sitting on the porch and taking care of the critters… It’s a living history out here.” There’s a cemetery outside the front gate with graves belonging to several families. Some date back to the Civil War. There have been stories of paranormal activity in and around the home. Judy discounts these ghost tales. “There’s new paint on the house,” she said. “It’s not haunted. There’s nothing paranormal.” One thing is for sure, however - the house will remain in the family. “Ed wanted to keep the land in the family and restore and preserve the house,” Gayle said. “He never wanted it sold or have the land developed. We (she and Judy) feel this is a solemn trust.” ■

Judy and Charles McMillan after the tree service cleaned one of the many Live Oaks on the property www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Savannah Tech Brings Home the Gold Story by Cindy Reid

avannah Technical College students proved they are among the nation’s best of the best at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held this June in Atlanta. It was high-stakes at the competition and the Savannah Tech students absolutely crushed it. Their impressive five gold medal win tied as the top postsecondary chapter in Georgia and pushed the state’s total to 36 postsecondary medals, making Georgia the sixth-highest medal winning state in the country. SkillsUSA is a national non-profit that provides vital support for middle school, high school, and college students training for essential careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations. Members have the opportunity to prove their capabilities through local, regional, and state-level competitions. From there, the top performers advance to the National Leadership and Skills Conference, where thousands compete in the rigorous, hands-on SkillsUSA Championships. In addition to the gold medals, Savannah Tech excelled in the leadership arena. Student Corina Stewart was named 2025-2026 SkillsUSA National College/Postsecondary Secretary, earning one of the most prestigious student leadership roles in the organization. In this highly visible role

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

she helped facilitate conference activities and ceremonies before the audience of over 19,000 attendees, demonstrating how Savannah Tech students are prepared to lead in their industries. Corina Stewart says the school has taught her practical learning and the opportunity to do the actual work. “I learned that I did not have to walk into a competition hoping I was prepared; I could enter knowing I had already practiced the skills the judges expected me to demonstrate”, she says, “ Savannah Tech helped turn my studies into an asset with which I could confidently lead. Competing revealed my capabilities, but serving in leadership, especially as a national officer, completely transformed the way I viewed my future.” For the students these honors have a profound impact on their plans and attitudes towards their careers. Joby Taylor, Gold Medal Winner, Mobile Electronics says, “The training at Savannah Tech prepared me for this experience in the best way because my instructor and trainer worked with me at every moment to ensure that I was ready to compete on a national level. Achieving a national Gold Medal was a massive stepping stone that proved to me that I could launch my own business.”

SkillsUSA is a national non-profit that provides vital support for middle school, high school, and college students training for essential careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations.

Malcolm Pannell, State Gold Medal Winner, HVAC says, “SkillsUSA gave me a new level of confidence and opened my eyes to a world of unlimited potential within HVAC. It allowed me to bring together the diverse training I received at Savannah Technical College and use my knowledge creatively. I enjoyed thinking through problems, troubleshooting different systems, and finding solutions in a challenging yet genuinely fun way. Winning made me realize that I am not limited to simply working in the field; I have the potential to grow, innovate, and discover the true boundaries of my potential in the HVAC industry.” For some, winning was actually a complete surprise. Says Ocean Jenkins-Lofton, Gold Medal Winner, Job Interview, “My experience with SkillsUSA Nationals was very exploratory. After competing, I was left with a defeated mindset and became depressed about my presumed loss. Overcoming these emotions made me find joy in aspects of the conference beyond winning. That new discovery is the best award I have ever been given. Thank you, SkillsUSA!” www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Jennifer Weatherly, LaRena Phillips, and Meredith Baker, were the Gold Medal Winners in the American Spirit category. Jennifer Weatherly,” Winning a national Gold Medal means a lot because I know how much hard work, time, and determination went into achieving it. It was more than just winning a competition; it proved that I could set a major goal, push past my comfort zone, and accomplish something of which I once felt unsure. I am incredibly proud of what I achieved.” Like the other medal winners she is grateful to Savannah Tech for providing the path to get there, “as well as for the support of Professor Rushe Hudzinski-Sero and Leigh Anne Moore. Having an educator and advisor who believes in you truly makes a difference. Their support gave me the faith to push past my comfort zone and believe that I could succeed.” Advisor to the team Leigh Anne Moore says,”I am incredibly proud of our students and everything they accomplish through SkillsUSA. Seeing their hard work, confidence, and determination pay off on such a big stage is exciting, not just for them, but for our entire Savannah Tech family. As an advisor, one of the best parts is watching our students realize just how talented they are and knowing this experience is helping prepare them for even greater milestones in their careers. “ Heather Riggs, the SkillsUSA Georgia Postsecondary Vice President believes the hands-on training she received at Savannah Technical College gave her more than technical skills; it gave her confidence in her own capabilities. She says, “When I competed in SkillsUSA, I was able to take the skills I had practiced in the classroom and deploy them. Winning the gold medal at the state level as a Nurse Assisting competitor showed me that preparation, determination, and confidence can turn hard work into success. It also taught me that I am capable of stepping forward, taking the lead, and representing my school and my profession with pride. “ She says “These experiences are preparing me not only to become a successful nurse, but to become the kind of healthcare professional who leads with confidence, compassion, and purpose.” One thing the winners have in common is that they are not waiting for their careers to happen, instead they are actively building their future through attaining specialized skills, the

practical application of classroom lessons and excelling at leadership opportunities. David Dillie, SkillsUSA Georgia Postsecondary Parliamentarian says being able to practice real skills, learn from instructors with industry experience, and solve problems independently helped him trust his abilities. He says the training helped him step up, take the lead, and ultimately win because he trusted both his knowledge and his practical ability. “As president of our Savannah Tech SkillsUSA chapter, I am responsible for more than my own success. I have to lead other students, communicate, organize, and represent our institution. Competition pushes me to sharpen my technical skills, while leadership teaches me how to collaborate with people and make decisions.” He says, “Together, those experiences are helping me command my career instead of simply waiting for opportunities to arrive. I am building the skills, relationships, and confidence to create those opportunities for myself and help other students achieve the same results.” Dennis Adams, Advisor to the team, says “Winning always brings a sense of pride to the team. Talking with students after the Skills Conference, it was clear that they were excited to be a part of Savannah Tech and are there to represent. I am looking forward to helping next year’s students work toward achieving their goals.” He says whether it’s a certificate, diploma, or degree, seeing students master their outcomes gives him a tremendous sense of pride and accomplishment and he looks forward to continuing to incorporate the SkillsUSA initiative into the HVAC program. Savannah Tech President Dr. Ryan W. Foley is justifiably proud of the students’ achievements. “To see our students tie for the most medals in the state and represent us in national leadership roles is outstanding,” he said “They are proving to the entire country that Savannah Technical College students are ready to step up, lead, and command their careers.” ■

“Winning a national Gold Medal ... proved that I could set a major goal, push past my comfort zone, and accomplish something of which I once felt unsure.”

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

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BACKPACKS OF LOVE Story by Katrice Williams

any people’s hearts sink at the thought of a starving or hungry child. However, hunger is the grim reality faced by some children each day. Melodie Lane is the director of the Backpacks of Love Program. Melodie established the program in 2012 in order to help students within the Bryan County Public School System who are affected by food insecurity. She has served in various capacities within the local school system for 25 years. Melodie, who is currently a bookkeeper, has been a secondgrade teacher, media center specialist and student services representative. She is the director of student ministries at her church, New Beginnings Community Church (New Beginnings); her husband Steve Lane is the pastor there, and Wes Wickard is the associate pastor. Inspiration Melodie knows that hunger should never be an option for children. The idea of Backpacks of Love first came to her in 2011. She recalls one of her biggest inspirations to begin the program. “A couple of little boys came into my office late for school one day. They kept looking at some crackers I had on the desk. I gave them to them. They said, ‘We haven’t eaten breakfast since we were in school,’” she says. Hearing such a statement was heartbreaking, understanding that the two boys had last been in school on

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

the previous Friday which was about three days prior. They explained to Melodie that their mom had not been at home, and there was no food in the house. Melodie then took them to the cafeteria to get some breakfast. Melodie understood that there were many other children all around just like those two boys. “There’s a lot of hungry children in Richmond Hill and the Pembroke area,” she says. The Program Over time, Melodie gained approval from the school system to launch the program. She also spoke with her husband and church community, who were on board to assist with the valiant effort. Several nonprofits, various clubs and organizations also took part in supporting the cause. Backpacks of Love is available for all school children in Bryan County – elementary, middle and high school students. Elementary students are normally the largest number served. At the start of each school year, Melodie emails school counselors. Teachers are able to refer students that have signs of food insecurity to their school counselors. Teachers are able to notice such signs in various ways. Some of the students may often complain about being hungry, ask their fellow classmates for food in the cafeteria or even attempt to take other students’ snacks throughout the day. The counselors contact the parents about Backpacks of Love. Parents who consent to participate in the program receive information to

the young girl what she wanted most for Christmas. The little girl’s response was heart-wrenching: “That food would be free.” She didn’t say that she wanted a doll, a game or a bicycle, nothing of the sort; instead, she just wanted food to be free. Those types of moments shined a bright light on the importance of the program. “Those moments keep everything in perspective … why it’s all worth it and how important it is that the kids get fed. I think it’s really a passion. When I see kids in need, I feel we have to meet that need,” Melodie says. Moreover, school counselors have received letters from some parents expressing their gratitude. Melodie recalls a letter sent from a mom of a family of five who revealed that the bag of food received was, at times, the only food that was available in the entire home. “It’s those things that keep you going. I’m very blessed to be a part of it,” she says.

sign and return to the school counselors. The information is documented. School counselors provide Melodie with the number of students who are in need of food each week. Each student receives one bag of food on Friday to take home with them for the weekend; all bags are filled with a variety of non-perishables to cover breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack for both Saturday and Sunday to ensure that each Support And Generosity child will have enough food to last throughout the weekend. Melodie is thankful for all the support, kindness and Items may include box cereal, instant oatmeal, fruit or fruit generosity that her church family has shown over the years. cups, soup, ravioli, peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, fruit Through their love and support, the program has been able to bars, gummies, juice and shelf-stable milk. help countless children. “We try to consider covering She is grateful for all the meals so that they have enough kindness and philanthropy Each student receives one bag of food to last the weekend if there is shown by individuals, businesses nothing in their home,” she says. and organizations who have on Friday to take home with them for Families are also able to contributed to the worthwhile the weekend; all bags are filled with receive food over the holidays cause. She feels blessed that (Thanksgiving, Christmas) to a variety of non-perishables to cover there is always enough to serve make sure that their children the children. breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack have enough to eat throughout “Many different people take those extended breaks. for both Saturday and Sunday part. It’s pretty amazing how many children we serve, and Volunteers there’s always enough. The The volunteers are the ones Richmond Hill community gives back a lot. People have gone that help make it all possible. Terri Goldman, a member of above and beyond. I appreciate our community … the way New Beginnings, leads the volunteer group at the church; they they always lend a hand,” Melodie says. help to pack and distribute food. Most volunteers are from Anyone interested in supporting Backpacks of Love may New Beginnings. Individuals from the community, various contact New Beginnings. Both monetary donations and civic groups and organizations also volunteer to help pack donations of food are appreciated. If food is provided, it is bags. asked that items are pre-packaged and easily accessible for “There’s always plenty of people. Sometimes we never children. know who’s going to show up,” Melodie says. Volunteers meet at the church each Thursday morning to pack bags. On average, about 300 bags of food are packed each week. The bags are divided into big tubs to be picked up and distributed to each school. The tubs are delivered to the schools for the students on Friday. The tubs are later picked up from the schools, and the process starts all over again. “Volunteers see how much food it takes to pack all the bags. It even amazes me how we’re able to provide it, but God always provides,” she says. Why It All Matters Melodie’s profession has allowed her countless moments to interact with children of all ages and backgrounds. She remembers the very honest and innocent words spoken by a little girl years ago during the Christmas season. She asked www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

BRYAN COUNTY

Pups stretching their legs at the Bryan County Bark Park

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Great Oaks Bank enjoyed hosting a Luau for the Del Webb community residents in Richmond Hill

The Richmond Hill Police Department is proud to celebrate Officer Mark Aronowitz on officially graduating from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center Police Academy

Cannon drill in the Georgia heat. 22nd Georgia, muster. Source: Facebook

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Ride Like Mike Story by Stephen Prudhomme

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

Photography by Leidy Lester

Michael Jordan Bikes 950 Miles for Gold Star Mothers

ichael J. Jordan hasn’t won an NBA championship or an Oscar, as did two of the people carrying that name. Nor has he performed in front of millions on court or the silver screen. He’s nevertheless carried on the legacy of excellence associated with that moniker, turning in a performance that merits applause and admiration. Jordan, 73, is a resident of Bloomingdale. He’s lived there for 13 years after growing up in Port Wentworth. Jordan worked for Gulfstream, doing production work for several years before becoming a toolmaker. He retired in 2016. In late May, Jordan, an avid cyclist who goes on weekly group rides in and around Savannah, expanded his route. Riding mostly solo, he went from Bloomingdale to Washington, D.C., in 11 days for a distance of 950 miles. He had two rest days - one in Wilmington, N.C., and the other in Chesapeake, Va. This was not a trek based on personal accomplishment or a chance to show off his fitness level but an opportunity to promote a worthy organization. Jordan was riding for Gold Star Mothers, Inc., a national organization dedicated to helping veterans and their families and started by the mother of a World War I soldier who was killed in action but whose body was never identified. “It was a great ride,” said Jordan, who had two rest days and was accompanied by his wife, Lisa, driving their Ford Explorer. “I chose late spring for the ride, figuring it would about 10 to 20 degrees cooler than in mid June. The heat wasn’t bad. I drank about nine bottles of water a day. My wife kept on asking if I was tired. I told her everything was good.” It all started last year when he noticed one of his bikes hanging in his garage. “I thought I can do something with this bike,” Jordan said. “I can have a cause. I wanted to bring awareness to the price paid for freedom. The image I have of Gold Star Mothers is what goes on in Arlington Cemetery, which I visited. They lost a husband or son. I was delivering the message of the price of freedom.” Jordan put his mechanical skills to work by painting Stars and Stripes on his bicycle and purchasing custom riding attire featuring Gold Star emblems and insignia that had to meet the organization’s strict guidelines. To train for

the ride, Jordan cycled 10 laps over six hours at Hunter Army Airfield several times a week and averaged 15 to 18 hours a week leading up to his late May departure. Through Adventure Cycling, Jordan set up an East Coast route that went along mostly back roads; he and his wife drove the route in October 2025. He rode to Charleston, S.C., his first day and made it to Mryle’s Inlet, S.C., the following day. Jordan credits his wife, who was wearing a sling due to a broken arm, with being his “rock” during the ride. “Driving a Ford Explorer while wearing a sling isn’t easy,” he said. “I can’t give her enough credit.” Jordan’s journey was marked by a number of encounters with supportive and generous individuals. His hotel of choice was the Hampton Inn; he and his wife stayed at nine Hampton Inns during his ride. “ “We’ve stayed there before,” Jordan explained. “The rooms are always clean and the staff is courteous. They really stepped up to the plate. Two of the hotels gave us a pass to park out in front, and one paid our bill. I parked my bike next to the front desk, and staff and guests would see it and me wearing my “kit” (jersey and bike shorts) and ask questions about my ride. They were friendly and encouraging.” www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

On June 4, having ridden nearly 950 miles ... Jordan arrived in Washington, D.C., and finished his ride at the Gold Star headquarters, where he was welcomed by volunteers and given a tour of the facility. People’s friendliness and generosity wasn’t limited to the Hampton Inn. While in Suffolk, Va., Jordan and his wife stopped at a country store. The owner, finding out about Jordan’s mission, gave them several to-go meals. “We met so many great people,” said Jordan, who frequently posed for photos with first responders and other individuals during his ride. When he got to Richmond, Jordan found the intended roads too dangerous. He contacted friend and former Gulfstream coworker Tom Huff, a former Naval fighter pilot who was familiar with the roads. Huff flew his plane from Florida to Virginia to meet up with Jordan. The two men rode the remaining distance to the nation’s capital. On June 4, having ridden nearly 950 miles and drinking more than 80 bottles of water, Jordan arrived in Washington, D.C., and finished his ride at the Gold Star headquarters, where he was welcomed by volunteers and given a tour of the facility. Rose Duval, national D.C., representative for Gold Star Mothers, said most of the public is unaware of the organization and its mission and the price of freedom tied to what they’re doing. “My hat’s off to Michael,” Duval said. “He helped raise awareness. It’s about telling the story and making it relevant to them. They learn about an organization of mothers that love their children.” Duval especially enjoyed receiving cards and a poster made by students for an art project at the school where Lisa works as a substitute teacher. The students drew pictures of flags, bicycles, rolling hills and a rendering of Jordan on a bicycle that he said made him look like he was ET, from another planet. “Their imaginations ran wild,” Jordan said. “I was amazed with what they came up with. It was the neatest thing.” That could also describe Jordan’s riding adventure. “It all worked out,” he said. “It was an unbelievable experience.” Jordan was feeling so good he considered doing a 50-mile bike ride after arriving in the nation’s capital but following the suggestion of Huff decided to take it easy and play tourist. It was in the latter role he attended a ceremony marking the 82nd anniversary of the D-Day invasion, having been invited by a retired Army colonel while walking around the World War II Memorial wearing his kit. There were a number of D-Day veterans at the ceremony. “It was emotional, magical and moving,” Jordan said. “You were immersed in it. It was like going to the Changing of the Guard at Arlington Cemetery. We were part of it. Everyone thanked me for using

the bike ride to highlight the price of freedom. They were very appreciative.” On the trip back home, with his bike relegated to the roof of the SUV and enjoying a cool and comfortable seat in said vehicle next to his wife, Jordan stopped by three veterans cemeteries. There, as at Arlington, he was reminded of the price of freedom and the motivation for his bike ride. “You could see white monuments as far as the eye can see,” Jordan said. “It was mind boggling.” Jordan has cycled for nearly 50 years and took it up seriously in 1993. “I enjoyed the fitness aspect of it and enjoyed riding with the group,” Jordan said. His mentor was Nestor Garnay, a former pro cyclist from Belgium who managed three bike shops in the Savannah area. Jordan started riding with the local cycling group but found it difficult to keep up. Garnay encouraged him to ride for 90 minutes on a daily basis to build up his base. To accomplish this, Jordan switched to the night shift at Gulfstream so he could ride in the mornings. After 12 weeks of training, Jordan, having lost 20 pounds, was able to keep up with the riding group. He also worked as a marshal for bike races in Georgia, California and Missouri, fixing potholes and doing whatever else to keep the roads safe. Following retirement, Jordan gave new meaning to a sedentary lifestyle, spending plenty of time in the saddle. That culminated with his most ambitious trek, going from Bloomingdale to Washington, D.C. Jordan said he’s considering a similar ride in 2028 around Memorial Day, perhaps going through as many as 10 states. “I want to recognize those who made the ultimate active,” said Jordan, noting he’d like to ride until at least the age of 90. “I want to carry on what I’m doing with Gold Star or anyone attached to them.” As far as his name, Jordan said he wouldn’t call it a curse to share a name with one of the greatest basketball players of all time. “It’s a conversation starter,” Jordan acknowledged. “We even have the same middle initial - J. My middle name is Joseph. His is Jeffrey. He’s not paying me anything to use my name. I had it before him. I tell people I’m taller and darker on TV.” ■

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

The Moment You Realize You’ve Become “The Voice in Their Head” by Alycia Calderin

t happens quietly. There’s no ceremony, no milestone photo, no warning. Just a random moment where your child says something about themselves, and you recognize your own words staring back at you. Sometimes it’s harmless: “I can’t, I’m not good at that.” Sometimes it lands heavier: “I always mess things up.”

What matters is what echoes most. The apologies. The corrections. The moments we say, “I was wrong.” The times we choose gentler words, even when we’re tired. » Every time we tell them, “You’re allowed to try,” we plant courage. » Every time we say, “Mistakes don’t define you,” we plant grace. » Every time we say, “I love you even when it’s hard,” we plant safety.

And suddenly you realize: you’re not just raising a child anymore. You’re shaping the voice they’ll hear when no one else is around.

One day, when they’re older and standing alone in a moment that scares them, they won’t hear our voices out loud anymore. They’ll hear them inside.

I used to think parenting was about teaching manners, routines, right from wrong. I didn’t realize I was also writing the internal script they’ll carry into classrooms, friendships, relationships, and rooms I’ll never step foot in.

And I hope, more than anything, that when they do, it sounds like reassurance instead of judgment. Like encouragement instead of fear. Like love, steady and familiar, reminding them they are capable, worthy, and not alone.

They’re listening when we think they aren’t. They’re absorbing tone, not just words. They’re learning how to talk to themselves by how we talk to them, and how we talk about ourselves. The first time it really hit me, it scared me. Because I know the voice in my own head. I know where it came from. And I know how long it took to unlearn the parts that weren’t kind. I don’t want my stress to become their self doubt. I don’t want my exhaustion to become their inner critic. I don’t want my “I’m fine” to teach them to swallow everything.

That’s when you realize: Parenting isn’t just about raising kids. It’s about becoming the voice you hope they’ll carry with them forever.

But here’s the part no one talks about: we won’t get it right all the time. We will raise our voices when we’re overwhelmed. We’ll sigh too loudly. We’ll say things we wish we could take back. And yes, some of that will echo longer than we’d like.

mom-ing

UNFILTERED

Finding Magic in the Madness of Motherhood

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

WHAT BRYAN COUNTY RESIDENTS ARE SAYING Themes, voices, and standout comments from the community survey

WHAT PEOPLE LOVE

IN THEIR WORDS

Community Spirit

Friendly neighbors and a strong sense of togetherness

THE BIG PICTURE

Nature and coastline

Beautiful natural areas and easy access to the coast

Great Schools

Pride in strong schools and educational opportunities

Small-town atmosphere Pride in strong schools and educational opportunities

Time with family

Valuing moments together and a family-centered lifestyle

Bryan County comes across as a place people care deeply about. Residents describe a community with heart, beauty and strong schools, while also calling for growth to be managed carefully, infrastructure to keep up and more balanced investment across the county.

THEY WANT MORE OF...

A slower pace of life

Room to breathe and time to enjoy what matters most

Local shopping

Fine dining

Walking & biking trails

Parks

WHAT NEEDS ATTENTION Growth and development

Manage growth thoughtfully & sustainably

Traffic

Congestion & congestion hotspots

Infrastructure

Keep up roads, utilities, & services

Balance North & South Bryan

More investment & amenities across Bryan

Parks and recreation

More parks, green space, and recreation

Preserving character

Keep Byran County’s charm as it grows

Family activities

Entertainment

Night life

Attractions

LOCAL FAVORITES

Community amenities

BE THE FIRST TO KNOW

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www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

NEW TO BRYAN COUNTY? Here Are Some Important Contacts: RICHMOND HILL CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

NEWSPAPERS

(912) 756-2676

Bryan County News | (912) 756-2668 Savannah Morning News | (912) 236-9511

HEALTHCARE Bryan County Health Department | (912) 756-2611 Please refer to the online directory, “Health Care,” for a complete listing of healthcare partners.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

POST OFFICES Ellabell Post office 8745 US Hwy 280 E Ellabell, GA 31308 Pembroke 298 Ledford St Pembroke, Ga 31321 Richmond Hill 9664 Ford Ave Richmond Hill, GA 31324

In case of EMERGENCY, dial 911 Georgia State Patrol | (912) 754-1180 Bryan County Sheriff | (912) 756-2282 Bryan County Fire & Emergency Services | (912) 756-1982 City of Pembroke Police | (912) 653-4414 City of Pembroke Fire Department | (912) 653-4400 City of Richmond Hill Police | (912) 756-5645 City of Richmond Hill Fire Department | (912) 445-5928

SCHOOL REGISTRATION

LIBRARY SERVICES

Pembroke City Hall | (912) 653-4413 Richmond Hill City Hall | (912) 756-3345 Water Utility Management | (912) 352-9339

Pembroke Public Library | (912) 653-2822 Richmond Hill Public Library | (912) 756-3580

Public Schools Bryan County Schools | (912) 851-4000

ELECTRICITY Canoochee EMC | (800) 342-0134 Coastal Electric Cooperative | (912) 844-3311 Georgia Power | (888) 660-5890

WATER / TRASH PICK-UP

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

September 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

BRYAN COUNTY EVENTS Find additional details and a full calendar for the entire Greater Savannah area at BryanCountyMagazine.com. Sign up for the newsletter at www.bryancountymagazine.com/pages/ magazine-subscription-bryancounty 9/5: Labor Day Celebration Fort McAllister State Historic Park

9/8: Bryan County Schools Work -Based Learning Lunch & Learn Richmond Hill High School

9/12: Girl Scouts Love State Parks Day: Bee a Habitat Hero Fort McAllister State Historic Park

9/14: Mobile Mammography - SJ/C Richmond Hill Campus at Heartwood

October 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

3866 Belfast Kellar Road, Richmond Hill Friday

Saturday

9/26, 10/10, 10/25: Pumpkin Patch at Triple J 95 Mill Run Terrace Rd., Richmond Hill

10/3: Run Forrest Run Endurance Fest 4

Tom Triplett Community Park

10/8: Mobile Mammography Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant 11

1500 Genesis Drive, Ellabell

10/17: Richmond Hill 5k Richmond Hill High School

10/17: Haunted Trail Fort McAllister State Historic Park

10/24: Haunted Trail The Haunting of Savage Island Fort McAllister State Historic Park

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

The Corner Table Chatham County by Gail Mihalik

Crafted and Co.: A Hidden Gem in Richmond Hill “Tucked away in Richmond Hill sits a dark, comfortable little cocktail spot that feels more like a hidden secret than a neighborhood bar.” That line caught my attention immediately. I thought I knew just about every hidden gem in Richmond Hill, Georgia, but somehow this place had completely slipped under my radar. Maybe it was the limited hours. Maybe it was just one of those places you only hear about through whispered recommendations from people who don’t really want the secret getting out. Either way, curiosity got the better of us, and we decided to see if the rumors were true. We pulled into the parking lot and realized it was sitting right next door to Grit and Grain, a place we’ve visited several times before. How had we never noticed it? The moment we stepped inside, we were greeted warmly and told to sit wherever we liked. The space was dimly lit, giving off a subtle speakeasy vibe — intimate, relaxed, and just mysterious enough to feel special. Two oversized leather wingback chairs immediately caught our eye, and we settled in without hesitation. Then came the menu, and honestly, it felt like it had been designed specifically for me. I love tapas and small plates. Most nights when we go out, I don’t want to commit to just one entrée. I’d rather explore, sample, and mix flavors along the way. This spot was built for exactly that kind of dining experience. So yes… we may have gotten a little carried away. We ordered six different small plates and managed to cover just about every category — seafood, multiple meats, vegetables, and, of course, a grown-up version of mac and cheese that deserved a moment of silence all its own. Our waitress paused for a second after taking the order and asked, “How many people are joining you tonight?” I laughed and admitted it was just the two of us. Without missing a beat, she smiled and replied, “I’ll bring to-go boxes when you’re ready.” She was fantastic. She gently tried to steer us toward ordering less, but we held the line and committed to the feast.

Now let’s get to the real reason we came: the cocktails. The drinks here aren’t just cocktails — they’re art in a glass. The menu was packed with creative options, but I finally told the bartender, “Make me something that feels like a vacation.” A few moments later, he returned with a Watermelon Salted Paloma. One sip in, I looked over at Scott and said, “I can practically feel my toes in the sand.” That was all the convincing Scott needed. He immediately ordered a mocktail of his own. As the evening went on, we settled deeper into the atmosphere. Guests gathered around cozy seating areas that felt more like someone’s stylish living room than a traditional bar. Comfortable, casual, and welcoming. Then the food arrived. Actually, “arrived” isn’t quite the right word. It was more like a small parade emerging from the kitchen, carried out by three different staff members balancing plate after plate across the room. At that point, we realized the wingback chairs would no longer work. We had to relocate to a larger table just to fit everything. And honestly? We regretted nothing. The portions may have been petite, but that was exactly the point. It gave us the perfect opportunity to sample a little bit of everything. And despite our waitress preparing us for leftovers, somehow we managed to leave with barely enough food to justify that to-go box after all. Dessert was not an option for us, as you can probably see. But they have a few offerings that all look inviting.

10134 Ford Avenue, Richmond Hill, GA

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Please thank these advertisers for contributing to our community and making this publication possible. If you want to be part of this list, email Jan@JDelSURMarketing.com or call 912.295.5406.

COMMUNITY SPONSORS Lowcountry Foundation Repair Wiley’s Home Center Coastal Contracting............................................................................. 35 Coastal Pet Rescue.................................................................................7 Georgia Skin & Cancer Clinic...............................................................7 Hospice Savannah...................................................................................7 Lowcountry Foundation and Crawl Space Repair.........................14 Optim Orthopedics................................................................................ 2 Sam The Concrete Man...................................................................... 19 Savannah Trimlight................................................................................14 St. Joseph’s/Candler....................................................................... 15,36 SunCare Hospice & Palliative Care..................................................... 9 The Horne Law....................................................................................... 3 TNT Pest Control.................................................................................... 9

www.BryanCountyMagazine.com | September/October 2026

SARAH LUM - POOLER, GA During the second trimester of her pregnancy, Sarah began experiencing extreme fatigue and dizziness, affecting her ability to do her job or interact with her three year-old toddler. A visit with her OB/GYN, Dr. Saucedo Baza at St. Joseph’s/Candler, revealed dangerously low blood pressure.

“THAT’S WHY I CHOOSE TO PRACTICE AT ST. JOSEPH’S/CANDLER.” Dr. Areli Saucedo Baza - OB/GYN

Dr. Saucedo Baza provided some dietary suggestions and referred Sarah to a St. Joseph’s/Candler cardiologist, who found no serious underlying issue. The team continued to closely monitor Sarah as her condition improved. However, at birth, respiratory complications required her newborn son to spend five days in the hospital’s NICU. Having this specialized nursery and a broad team that provides lifesaving care throughout the entire pregnancy are major reasons Dr. Saucedo Baza chooses to practice at St. Joseph’s/Candler.

SJCHS.ORG SJCPHYSICIANNETWORK.COM