I met Phil King when he taped a segment for the radio show.  I instantly liked him.  He is a very friendly person, open, intelligent and easy to talk with.  Today I am writing about his music.  If you combined Harry Chapin, Jim Croce and a bit of Neil Diamond, well, you’d have Phil.  WWEZ, The Island’s Easy radio has been playing several of Phil’s songs.  Listener’s love his easy going style and the fact that his music brings a smile to their faces.  You may have heard and enjoyed “In The Golden Isles” and “American Made”, a song which celebrates our country.

Unlike so many performers these days, Phil writes, plays and sings his own music.  You won’t hear the music of other artists when you attend his local engagements.  Phil tells a story with his music.  There may be a reprise that repeats through the song, but this is not music that goes on and on with the same words repetitively going through four to five minutes of what I have difficulty calling music.

Official Press Picture

Georgia born and raised, Phil’s musical journey has taken him from coast to coast, appearing at the famous Roxy Theatre in California, back in the day.  He’s rubbed shoulders with the best throughout his career.  He spent years living in Atlanta, holding the position of president of the Georgia Music Industry Association, Inc.  I believe Phil is a master at what he does!

Click to hear “Gorgeous Day”  

His newest release is Gorgeous Day.  It’s a happy go lucky tune that makes you want to get in that convertible he sings about and head for the beach.  If you want to hear Phil in live performance you have the opportunity on the first Wednesday of each month at Sea Palms.  I’ve got November 5th on my calendar!

Melissa | people | 10 22nd, 2014 | 4 Comments »

You won’t want to miss out on all the fun Saturday, October 18th, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Yes, there are so many fundraisers going on this time of year that you almost have to pick and choose, but this particular event is one I find to be of particular interest.  It’s a time to support the Golden Isles Career Academy Foundation and also to let your inner child out a bit!  The newly renovated Sea Palms Resort will host this annual event, complete with a wonderful silent auction and all sorts of yummy food and libations!

Last year’s event brought 175 guests together to have an evening of fun and merriment.  Could you throw a frisbee through that slender slot?  I know I could not!

Maiden’s fair will be in assistance as you travel from booth to booth having your turn at the various games and activities that will be provided!  I believe that’s the talented local artist, Ed Hose, I see on the bottom right!

Golden Isles Career Academy Foundation raised close to $25,000 at last year’s event.  This money goes to support the Academy as it provides quality education for bright, local students, providing them with training and employment opportunities they would not have otherwise.  Skilled trade workers are becoming more and more important in today’s world.  At the Academy students are given hands on training they cannot get through a traditional high school.  For more information about the Academy, contact Rick Townsend at 912-506-5347 or by email Rick.townsend@glynn.k12.ga.us

The atmosphere will be totally carnival….right down to the food!  What fun!  Don’t forget your dancing shoes!  Live music will have your toes tapping as you enjoy this great evening!

Get your tickets here:  http://candlelightcarnival.com/

Melissa | people | 10 9th, 2014 | 1 Comment »

Over the last several months I’ve gotten to know Judith Paixao.  She is a delightful, high spirited, incredibly creative and intelligent woman…..and she is my friend.  The fabulous pieces she works with clients to piece together and design from found objects in the sea are second to none!  And, just in time for Christmas, Judith will be holding another of her amazing “Salons” at the Glynn Visual Arts building beginning on October 16th and continuing through October 31st.

Judith creates these pieces after guests make their selections, carefully sorting through the many colors and varieties of sea glass and other objects.  Her workplace is the boat that she and her husband, Kev, call home that now docks at Morningside Marina.  What a way to work!

And more…as Judith finds objects off the coast of Bermuda…then lovingly takes them back on board to her studio.  The organization involved in producing a salon, making sure all of the selections for guests to go through are presented just so, color coordinated and categorized amazes me!  How does she do it?

AND….a salon is NOT just an event for women.  All though there will be several “Girl’s Night Out” events during the salon – October 20, 22, 27 and 29th from 4 – 8 pm.  Gentlemen are welcome to come and select something for that special someone….what a wonderful Christmas gift idea that any woman I know would love!

Speaking of Christmas….Have you ever seen anything as beautiful as these “Trees”, lovingly designed and constructed by Judith?  It’s not too late to order one here:  https://www.etsy.com/shop/SeaGlassJewelryShop, or speak to Judith in person when you attend the salon.

What a treat it will be to see all of the lovely ideas each guest will come up with and how Judith will then orchestrate making the actual piece!  In honor of the upcoming salon we are doing a giveaway!  Comment on this post, “Like” Bermuda Sea Glass Jewelry on Facebook as well as The Permanent Tourist and you may win a lovely silk cord with a coordinating piece of sea glass picked just for you by Judith!  We’re only giving five of these beauties away so don’t delay!

Glynn Art Association – 529 Beachview Drive – 638-8770

Opening Reception – October 16, 2014 4-8 pm

Melissa | people | 10 7th, 2014 | 11 Comments »

I posted about local photographer, Donna MacPherson, during the summer.  Since then Donna’s work has become more and more sought after in our area as well as others.  Most recently the Ritz-Carlton has purchased her work which will now be displayed at their prestigious hotel on Amelia Island.

You will have an opportunity to view her wonderful work at The Ritz Theatre in downtown Brunswick through the month of October.  The show opens during First Friday, this week from 5:00 -8:00 pm.

You can also view Donna’s photography during October at Soglo Gallery in downtown Brunswick on Newcastle Street, just a few blocks south of The Ritz.

Donna’s ability to create a peaceful beach feeling through her photographs is perfection!

And on a more whimsical side…..look at her entry, entitled “Garden Party”, as well as a decoupaged bust she donated to this year’s Artrageous Auction to benefit breast cancer research!

You’ll be hearing much more about Donna from me as the months go by so stay tuned!  It is such a joy to be able to share and promote local artists and events through The Permanent Tourist!  I am truly blessed to call this my home!

Melissa | people | 10 1st, 2014 | 2 Comments »

Ann & Lizzie

When I met with Ann Payne Price last week for the first time it was a very happy day for me.  Ann is such a charming Southern woman and gifted artist.

She took me on a tour of her lovely home where her paintings fill the walls making the space warm and inviting.

The studio she and her husband built when they bought their home here on St. Simons Island several years ago is the perfect hangout for a creative soul.  The smell of oil paints filled the air, Ann’s easel stood behind the sofa set up with her latest project….I could literally feel her artistic energy as we talked.  Ann shared her story of retiring as an executive with the Coca-Cola company thirteen years ago.  She began to try her hand at painting and found her passion.

Ann expresses her love of Coastal Georgia through her many landscapes and scenes of the marshes that appear like magic, shimmering on the canvas…..

At times she paints flowers that burst with color and life…..

At others she shares her travels with us.  Ann visits France and other parts of Europe twice a year, always prepared to begin a new painting.  Her zest for life and for her artwork is infectious!  Some of her paintings are on commission, but mostly, Ann paints from her soul, transferring what she sees into beautiful works of art done in oil.  She has inspired me to consider setting my easel up again!  Her encouragement was well received, especially when I returned home to find that she had forwarded an article on setting up your oil painting studio!  I may just begin to dabble again!

Ann Payne Price is a treasure.  Her work is frequently on exhibit at Glynn Visual Arts.  I will be keeping you posted on shows that include her work….you won’t want to miss the opportunity to meet this outstanding woman and view her priceless work!

Melissa | people | 09 30th, 2014 | 2 Comments »

On Monday, September 29th, music lovers from all over the Golden Isles are in for a treat as The Coastal Symphony of Georgia opens its new 2014-2015 season.  Maestro Luis Haza, begins this stellar season with music from The Romantic Period.  In his words, “These are programs which will showcase the virtuosity of the orchestra, they features a wide musical palette and artistic breadth.”  The selections for the first concert and sure to strike a chord with listener’s who will be treated to an evening of beautiful classical music.

In November the whole family will be treated to a concert that begins with Benjamin Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra and moves onto Peter and the Wolf.  This is a wonderful way to introduce classical music to the younger audience as well as a great way to begin the holiday season with an event the entire family will enjoy.  You’ll be delighted by narration of the Britten piece by Senator Mack Mattingly and his wife, Leslie.  Della Greenblatt, Ms. Georgia World International 2012 will provide narration for Prokofiev’s famous Peter and the Wolf.

Having grown up in a musical family, I have always been surrounded with beautiful music.  My appreciation for all sorts of music began with my mother, who, as an operatic soprano, shared so many different pieces with my brother and me.  As I have long said, music is a form of language.  In fact, it is the Universal language that touches the hearts of all who hear it in ways nothing else can.  Music literally calms the savage beast.

Brunswick High School

For ticket information go to: www.coastalsymphonyofgeorgia.org  You will also find tickets for sale at St. Simons Drug Company, on the island and at Hattie’s Books on Newcastle Street in Brunswick.  This season’s concerts will take place at the new Brunswick Highschool on Altama in Brunswick.  With plenty of parking space that is well lit and easy access to the auditorium you’ll enjoy  attending all of the season’s event.   All seats are reserved this season so you’ll find your seats with ease.

An Evening of Beethoven, Brahms, Wagner and Liszt is waiting to inspire you!

Melissa | people | 09 22nd, 2014 | No Comments »

I posted about my new children’s book, “Emmeline at Commander’s Palace”, a couple of weeks back!  The book is now available through Amazon.com and will be coming to select bookstores shortly.  In the meantime…..I’m giving a copy away to one lucky reader!  This book is perfect for lively little girls with a sense of adventure and a desire to have some fun in the kitchen as well!  In order to be entered to win please “Like” The Permanent Tourist on Facebook or let me know that you already have.  Follow The Permanent Tourist on Facebook and Pinterest then leave me a comment!  It’s that easy and I know you’ll love the book!  The deadline to enter is Wednesday, September 24th so don’t miss out!

Melissa | people | 09 18th, 2014 | 4 Comments »

I think one of my favorite things about writing The Permanent Tourist is sharing with others, connecting, learning and helping the community as a result of it all.  So when my friend, Betsy Knight, also my favorite dog groomer, let me know about the upcoming event being sponsored by the Wainwright Family Foundation I knew this was an opportunity not to be missed.  I’m writing today about the event that will take place on December 13th at 4:00 pm.  This concert will feature Dierks Bentley and Thomas Rhett in concert.  Adam Wainwright, local boy now Cardinal’s baseball star, and his wife have put this all together and what an even it will be!

What got my attention and what I love about this event is the sharing that is involved.  And I want to shine a light on Betsy as a volunteer who is going the extra mile to sell tickets.  The Wainwright’s approached all of the various non-profits in the area to help with ticket sales and as part of that, they are sharing the proceeds.  Tickets are $45.00, $5.00 goes for parking at the Glynn County Football Stadium and the Foundation is splitting the remaining $40.00, $20.00 each, with the non-profit’s involved in selling tickets.  What a great idea for a new Foundation who is making a mark on the community and giving back in such a generous way!

Melissa | people | 09 17th, 2014 | 1 Comment »

I may be in a “heap” of trouble for this post…lol.  But I can’t let this event go by and NOT write about it!  My lovely daughter, Skylar, turns 18 tomorrow.  A milestone birthday for a special young woman.  I don’t know where the time has gone, but it has melted away like a stick of butter on a hot summer day.  I cannot imagine my life without her lively, creative and sometimes mischievous free spirit in it.  I clearly remember the day I learned that I would be able to adopt her.  Having gone through several miscarriages and being told I would not be able to have children was pretty traumatic for me, but this little soul was bound and determined to find me and so she did.  We’ve been together since the moment I cut her umbilical cord, at around 5:50 in the morning on August 29, 1996.  Our connection began and on it goes.

Whether she’s snuggling with Emmeline……

Playing on the beach with Graham…..

Dressed in her Junior R.O.T.C. finest…..

Or posing for the camera, Skylar is a oner!  Our hearts found each other and nothing will ever change that!  Happy Birthday to one of the finest people I know.  My friend, my pride and joy…..always and forever!

Melissa | people | 08 28th, 2014 | 5 Comments »

For as long as I can remember I have been writing.  I have kept diary after diary and more journals than I can count over the years.  But until recently I never really knuckled under and worked to create a career for myself as a writer.  I am living proof that it is NEVER too late to be what you might have been.  My dream of writing professionally is coming true at last.

Miss E and G-man at our wedding

When I remarried five years ago I became an instant grandmother.  Mr. T got to raise his fifth teenager and I got to embrace the joy of having Emmeline and Graham in my life.  They are both so incredibly bright and funny, it’s always a treat to spend time with them separately or together.  Emmeline is probably the more outspoken of the two, although our last visit with Graham and his family in Atlanta showed me that he is developing into quite a talker himself!

Skylar and Em in the French Quarter

Emmeline’s history of outrageous one liners led her mother to begin writing things down that she would say or do.  I quickly learned that you don’t want to miss anything Miss E has to say!  Mr. T kept telling me I needed to write a children’s book that would feature our dear granddaughter and her one of a kind way of looking at the world.  I let that sit and brew in my mind for quite some time before coming up with the idea of a trilogy of children’s books featuring Emmeline and even introducing Graham in the second book.

Since Emmeline lives in New Orleans with her parents there is plenty of writing material to be found.  Having visited Commander’s Palace on several visits, where our son-in-law is a manager, an idea began to form.  To combine my love for New Orleans with my passion for wonderful food, especially the food at Commander’s Palace, and put them together in a story.  “Emmeline At Commander’s Palace” is the result of all of this.  Everything began to fall into place once I had the text written.  My dear friend, Marion Snyder, an uber talented local artist, stepped forward, eager to illustrate her first children’s book, which she did so beautifully!  And when it came time, Bob Drury, put the finishing touches on each page before handing everything over to Three Dolphin Press to take the final steps in getting the book published.

I am so excited that the book is now available on Amazon.com as both a hard copy and an e-book!  I enjoyed writing this little story, sharing Emmeline’s quick sense of humor and adventure and, of course, including a bit of culinary flavor to the story.  At the end of the book is a small collection of easy “French” oriented recipes that are child friendly to encourage young readers to get in the kitchen, with the help of an adult, and experiment!  Take a look here:  www.amazon.com, enter the name of the book and search.  If you happen to be in New Orleans, I’m very excited to say that the books will soon be available at Commander’s Palace and other area book stores.

The more I grow as a person, the more I realize the importance of playing.  We tend to forget this aspect of our lives as we age and become set in our ways.  Having Emmeline and Graham in my life is a never ending adventure that will continue to provide me with material for stories for quite some time!  I’ve already begun the second book which finds Emmeline and her cousin having an evening at City Park in NOLA at Christmastime.  You won’t want to miss it!  Being creative is my passion and finding my muse has changed my life…..join me on the adventure and let the good times roll!

Melissa | people | 08 27th, 2014 | 8 Comments »