CHOCOWINITY — Rudy Gue’s pride and joy will be a featured attraction of this year’s Spring Heat Car and Truck Show, planned for May 17.

The seventh annual event, benefiting the Chocowinity Fire Department, will be held at Chocowinity Middle School. Registration runs from 8 a.m. to noon, and awards will be presented at 3 p.m.

Gue has entered his 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door sedan in the show every year. The car has brought him a “top 40” award five years and one year it received the “best paint” trophy. He purchased the car nine years ago.

“It was in decent shape when I got it, but we’ve redone everything since I’ve had it,” Gue said. “I’ve got more hours in it than I can count.”

The father of seven children, Gue said he won’t have to decide to whom he will bequeath the classic automobile.

“That’s my baby. I’ve got my life savings, my kids’ inheritance, tied up in that car,” Gue said. “I’ve told my wife to sell it when I’m gone and pay off the house.”

His wife might have different ideas.

“She said I wouldn’t let her drive it while I’m alive so she’ll drive it after I die,” Gue said with a laugh.

As proud as Gue is of the Chevrolet, he doesn’t keep it wrapped up in baby blankets. It has been featured in Christmas parades in Chocowinity, Bath and Edward, and Gue has even driven it on a road trip to Maryland. And if he needs to make a run to the grocery store or the hardware store, he doesn’t hesitant to take the car on such a mundane outing.

The May 17 car and truck show will also feature barbecue chicken dinners, hot dogs, arts and crafts, vendors and live music by the 40 East Band, the latter sponsored by OBI Sheer Steel. Children’s activities will be hosted during the show by Haw Branch Church of Christ.

Awards including best car, best truck, best bike, best engine, best interior, best paint and sponsor’s choice will be presented.

For show information, call Charlie Elks at 252-945-1248. Vendor space is still available and may be reserved by calling Regina Elks at 252-945-0601. Inquiries may also be sent tocharliebrownnc@yahoo.com.