Rhonda Griffin, Staff Writer

ELIZABETHTOWN — The scorching heat of the afternoon couldn’t keep car lovers away from the Classic Cruisers Car Club’s 9th Annual Made in the Shade car show.

Around 300 cars of all colors, models, and styles were on display in front of San Jose Mexican Restaurant in Elizabethtown on Saturday, with more than 2,500 spectators battling the temperatures to show appreciation for the time and hard work the owners put into their show on wheels.

In addition to vehicles from all over the state, entries from as far away as Florida, Virginia, and South Carolina were shown at the event.

Winners from several different categories took home a total of 120 trophies and cash prizes at the end of the day. Door prizes were given away, along with $751 to the lucky winner of the 50/50 drawing.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will go to Cape Fear Council - Boy Scouts of America Camp Development Campaign, Bladen We Care, Bladen Journal’s Empty Stocking Fund, Lower Cape Fear Hospice, and Habitat for Humanity.

Last year, the Classic Cruisers Car Club donated more than $8,000 to Bladen County charities, mostly generated through its annual car show.