LAURINBURG — Cold brews and warm conversation kept the crowd at the James L. Morgan Recreation Complex lively on Friday during the latest installment of the Laurinburg After Five concert series.
While some couldn’t resist a chance to win drawing for $500 cash, many simply came to shag and shuffle to the tunes of beach band Midnight Allie.
“I love to party, I love the crowds and I love beach music,” said Lee Tarlton. “It’s party music — you can socialize, have fun, and have a cold one or 12.
“Bottom line is, we like to party and it’s close to the house.”
Though Allie Privette, lead singer of Midnight Allie, left her old band, Sea Cruz, she kept their No. 1 fan.
“I’ve been following her since when she was with Sea Cruz. Sea Cruz and a bunch of the other bands helped me get fan of the year award for 2013,” said Brian Mitchell, who traveled from Rockingham to the James L. Morgan Recreation Complex.
Mark Jones, attending his first Laurinburg After Five after relocating to Laurinburg five weeks ago, received a warm welcome when Lee Howell, chair of the Laurinburg/Scotland County Area Chamber of Commerce, drew his name as the winner of the cash drawing.
“Everybody free slice,” yelled one reveler as Jones came running, in his Dominos uniform, from a vendor truck.
“I had six tickets in the raffle, but yes I’m surprised I won,” said Jones, who later distributed some of his winnings amongst his co-workers.
Friday’s event was the latest in the summer series organized by the Laurinburg/Scotland County Area Chamber of Commerce, which is sponsored by more than 50 local businesses. The final installment is set for Aug. 14, featuring party band the Fantastic Shakers and a kickoff event for Fighting Scots football. The concert begins at 6 p.m., with deejay Soundhills Sounds keeping current hits flowing during breaks.
Admission is $1 at the gate for adults. Kids 12 and under are free. As in previous events, attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket to set up a comfortable viewing spot, but coolers and pets will not be allowed.
Abby Hackmann can be reached at 910-506-3171.