CHOCOWINITY — One sure way to combat the winter doldrums is to think ahead to warmer weather, and that is exactly what members of the Chocowinity Fire Department and Auxiliary are doing.

The organizations announced this week they will sponsor their seventh annual Spring Heat Car & Truck Show. The event is set for May 17 on the campus of Chocowinity Middle School.

While the event itself is months away, now is the time for vendors to reserve spaces for the art and craft fair held in conjunction with the show, according to Regina Elks, auxiliary president.

“It’s a fun day, and it’s a good way to support the community,” Elks said. “All the money collected goes to help the auxiliary and to help the fire department purchase new items needed to better serve our community.”

In the past, the craft show has included everything from original artwork and jewelry to handcrafted hair bows.

“We have lots of different things,” Elks said.

Vendors may also purchase booth space for manufactured items, such as 31 bags and Tastefully Simple products, but those will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, according to Elks. No such restrictions are placed on vendors wishing to sell handmade art and crafts.

If paid before April 14, booth spaces are priced at $40; after that date, the price goes up to $60. Booth fees are non-refundable. For more information about vendor space, contact Elks at 252-945-0601.

The car and truck show itself will feature a variety of automobiles as well as motorcycles. Registration is $20 per vehicle and awards will be presented near the conclusion of the show. This year’s awards will include trophies for best car, best truck, best bike, Top 50, best engine, best interior and best paint job.

More information about the show may be obtained by calling Charlie Elks at 252-945-1248.

The day’s festivities will also include live musical entertainment by the 40 East Band, as well as family and children’s activities provided by Haw Branch Church of Christ. And no one will go hungry with barbecue chicken plates and hot dogs being sold on site.

Inquiries about the Spring Heat Car & Truck Show, including requests for vendor applications, may be emailed to charliebrownnc@yahoo.com.