Final preparations are being made for Thursday's "A Taste of Cherokee" event at First Baptist Church of Gaffney, with several local businesses scurrying to put together select food and table items.

"I have heard of several businesses and organizations bringing a number of creative themes with them to the event," said American Red Cross of Cherokee County Service Center Manager Shellie Wylie. "There will definitely be a lot to see."

Just last week, however, that was not the case as Wylie worried whether the event would be able to fill its entire complement of vending tables.

"Up to a point we only had around half of our tables being occupied by sponsors," Wylie said.

What a difference a week makes though as the organization reached its goal in selling out the event's 35 available tables.

"We are thankfully now full," Wylie said. "It is a real compliment to those who support the Red Cross and want to see those devastated by fire and other catastrophes get the help they deserve."

A wealth of food and dessert items will be available with visits from local dignitaries, members of Cherokee County First Steps and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People's (NAACP) youth council.

John Cessarich, of the "John On The Road" show and chief meteorologist for WYFF-TV 4 in Greenville is also expected to be in attendance.

An auction will be held featuring tickets to Disney World, a handmade Red Cross blanket, a hat autographed by NASCAR Sprint Cup's Jeff Gordon and a number of other items. A contest judging the theme and creativity of the vending tables will also be held.

"Everyone is pulling out all of the stops to win the (vending table) contest," Wylie said. "That along with the many goodies being given away gives me hope that all will have a good time."

Wylie also anticipates a local family affected by fire to be in attendance.

"Charles Moore and his family lost virtually everything as a result of a recent fire," Wylie said. "Their willingness to attend is a testament to their strength and that they want to let people know that a similar disaster can happen to any of us."

The organization has upped the ante this year, setting a goal of $20,000. Funds donated to the Red Cross go toward helping those affected by catastrophes like fires and natural disasters. Victims receive money, blankets, medicine and other living supplies with the help of the organization.

The event raked in $8,000 last year.

This is the seventh year the fundraiser has taken place. Festivities are scheduled for Thursday from 5:30 until 8 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the event will move indoors.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

For more information, contact Wylie at 489-6066.