C learly autumn is on its way as summer's sizzling temperatures have began to cool and leaves change colors before falling to the earth below.

Johnny and Judy Blackwell's 1938 Cadillac LaSalle won "Best in Show"at last year's event. For many of the months before fall graces the world with its presence, car enthusiasts —especially those with vintage era vehicles— spend hour after hour under the hood getting the machine in tip-top condition for cruising along local roads and to enter into area car shows.

Cherokee County car enthusiasts do not have to look far for a place to showcase the products of their labor, marking their calendars in advance for the annual Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society (CHAPS) Fall Classic Car Show. Inviting antique cars, trucks and motorcycles, the car show has become one of the top fundraising projects for the nonprofit organization.

"You always feel like you have to top yourself," said Billy Pennington of the Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society, "but especially with the car show because it's one of our bigger efforts; it's something a lot of people look forward to each year."

Tyler Brown organizes some of the many trophies, door prizes and silent auction items for Saturday's show. Nearly 100 vehicles have been entered into the car show each of the past two years. Pennington expects nothing to be different this year, with plenty of activities planned throughout the day for all members of the family. More than 100 awards will be given during this year's car show, with trophies going to the top 75 entries, Spectator's Choice, Poor Man's Trophy, and Best in Show.

While adults marvel at the beauty of the many vehicles entered in the car show, children can pass time aboard barrel train rides.

"Our whole goal this year is to make it a fun environment for the entire family," Pennington said. "This year we are even encouraging those with bikes, golf carts and other vehicles to take part in this. Our goal is to stress fun and provide a non-expensive afternoon with the family."

A silent auction and door prizes are also on the slate of activities for the event. In addition, local classic rock band Southern Thunder is scheduled to perform, taking the stage for the event's afternoon run. The concert is being sponsored by the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.

Food and refreshments provided by Willy T's BBQ, Your Best Body, and the Snack Shack will be available on the grounds.

CHAPS has established a goal of raising $5,000 and attracting 100 classic vehicles to participate in the car show. All proceeds will go to the Cherokee County History and Arts Museum.

"We've been close to those totals a couple of times; it was a good feeling," Pennington said. "Hopefully, we can make it this year."

The car show will take place Sept. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Cherokee County History and Arts Museum. Admission to the event is only $3 for adults and $1 for children.

To register a vehicle, visit www.cherokeecountyhistory. org or call (864) 489-3988.