CENTRE — Parties may be less in demand now that school has started back, but that hasn't stopped the Cherokee Corners on West Main Street in Centre from throwing a block party, complete with live entertainment featuring musician Wade Trammell.

“This is, first and foremost, an American Red Cross blood drive,” says Verizon Wireless store manager J.D. Jennings. “In essence, we want to promote small businesses in the community.”

Billed as the “Cherokee Corners Block Party” and set for Sept. 29, the event will begin at 11 a.m. and run until 4 p.m.

Verizon Cellular Center, Catos, Dollar Tree, Advance America, Taco Bell, Waffle House, the Cherokee County Historical Museum, AAA Eagle Bail Bonds, Pizza Hut, and several others have come together to host and sponsor.

“I'm really excited about this event,” said Ashley Flynt of Verizon Wireless. “I'm a fairly new employee, but I love what this business does for our community. Seeing it take such an interest in our small businesses just shows that I'm definitely working at the right place. I couldn't be happier.”

The event will offer plenty of entertainment and door prizes, including two $100 gift certificates, numerous small gift certificates, a Bluetooth speaker, and more. Trammell, whose parents hail from Centre, will take the stage at 3 p.m.

The American Red Cross will conduct a blood drive from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Food vendors will have, lemonade, cotton candy, pretzels, peanuts, jerky, pork skins, and more for sale. There will be face painting for the kids.