People are opening their windows, working in their gardens and enjoying the outdoors now that warmer temperatures have returned to Fort Mill.
Locals don't need to head indoors when the sun sets; check out the live music offered around town at several outdoor venues.
Blues singer
Robin Rogers, a lady who can really sing the blues, performs at Longitude 81 at 971 Gold Hill Road every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m. A recent Thursday night provided the perfect weather to hang out on the deck, grab a drink and kick back with friends. The intimate setting, complete with Tiki torches and a surfer bar, transports you to a vacation spot in your own hometown.Rogers entertained folks for six years at Firehouse Grille before moving to Longitude 81.
"We think Thursday night is a great night to have Robin -- we just love listening to her," said Longitude 81 manager Greg Sheppard.
"It's fun playing in Fort Mill, we always have a good time here," Rogers said.
She lives in Dallas, N.C., and performs at Longitude 81 as a trio with her husband, Tony Rogers, on guitar and Kerry Brooks on upright bass. The night I was there, Bobby Donaldson was substituting for Tony Rogers. Rogers plays with a full band at other venues adding Donaldson, Donnie Marshall and Tuf Blanton.
Rogers is as adept at belting out a lyric as she is jamming on the harmonica. She sings original songs and does several covers, with her personality shining through.
Patrons spanned all age groups, and several were self-proclaimed "groupies." John and Penny Galop of Lake Wylie were out with friends enjoying Rogers' music. John Galop knows Rogers through the Charlotte Blues Society and plays guitar in the Johnny Rocket Band. Rogers' voice always has them coming back.
During a break, Rogers mingled with the crowd and autographed copies of her second CD. She recently signed with Blind Pig Records, one of the premier blues labels in the country. Her new CD will be released June 24 and is titled "Treat Me Right." Learn more at www.robinrogers.com.
Other venues
SweeTreats, located in Baxter Town Center, is more than just ice cream. New owners Anita and Jose Sayago plan to offer an expanded menu, including breakfast.
"We'll have artisan breads, gourmet coffee, sandwiches and breakfast fare freshly baked," said Anita Sayago, a New York native. Jose Sayago hails from Spain and hopes to include some European offerings soon as well.
The Sayagos moved here a little over a year ago and live in Regent Park with their four boys. "We hope to be here a long time and have the boys take over one day," said Anita.
The Sayagos are signing local talent to provide live music on Friday nights. Customers can listen to music inside or outside on the front patio. Contact them at 803-548-8686 if you are interested in performing.
McHale's at 1820 Gold Hill Road is another spot for live music. Bands play every Friday night and every other Thursday night. An outdoor area is available as weather permits. Call 803-548-2151 for further information.
Dunkin' Donuts
If you've driven around the parking lot by McDonald's on S.C. 160 and Gold Hill Road, chances are you've run into some bulldozers. Once the construction is over you'll run into some welcome aromas. Dunkin' Donuts is coming to Fort Mill.
Wondergirl
All this talk of food needs to be balanced with a little exercise.
Be sure to attend Wondergirl 5K, the Girls on the Run race next Sunday at Baxter Community Center. Race day registration is 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.; the race starts at 2 p.m. Register online at www.gotrtricountysc.org or stop by the Leroy Springs Recreation Complex to pick up a race brochure. Karin Janick
