AHOSKIE – The time is now.

Despite the fact that the second annual Ahoskie Heritage Day along with the traditional Indian Summer Days are both still over a month away, event organizers are seeking immediate sign-up for several of the scheduled activities.

"It's very important to sign-up for these events as soon as possible because we feel extremely confident that the spots will fill up fast," said Ahoskie Mayor Linda Blackburn.

Ahoskie Heritage Day is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 1. There may be some Friday evening events on Sept. 30.

Meanwhile, the 35th annual Ahoskie Chamber of Commerce Indian Summer Days will be held in conjunction with Heritage Day. Phyllis Frymier, Executive Director of the Ahoskie Chamber, said the booths for this annual arts and crafts show are filling-up fast. A few spots remain and can be rented for $25. There is an added charge for tables and chairs. Call the Ahoskie Chamber at 332-2042 to register or to receive additional information.

As for Heritage Day, the following events require pre-registration:

Art Show n Artists wishing to exhibit their work at the old Ahoskie High School gym are urged to contact Barbara Perry through the Ahoskie Downtown Merchants Association (332-2712).

Heritage Day 5K Run n Sponsored by the ViQuest Center, this event begins promptly at 8 a.m. on Oct. 1. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. Pre-registration is available by contacting Jason Epaminonde by phone or in person at ViQuest (209-3090; 117 Hertford County High School Road). Registration on the day of the event is available at ViQuest or at the event's staging area on Camlin Drive.

All Breed Dog Show n This fun event, sponsored by Barks N Bubbles, will be held at the empty lot adjacent to Southern Bank on Main Street. There is no entry fee. Ribbons (1st through 4th place) will be awarded to the winners as well as a Best in Show award. Classes of participation are largest dog, smallest dog, most creative pet costume and the pet that looks the most like its owner. Contact Barks N Bubbles (332-6600) to register.

Yard Sale n On the heels of last year's huge participation in this part of Heritage Day, Mayor Blackburn urges immediate registration as she feels sure this event will sell-out fast. Contact Blackburn at either 332-5102 or 209-7498 to register. There is a $10 fee for a 12×12 space or $25 for a 24×24 space. The fee must be paid in advance prior to being allowed to set-up in the Southern Bank area.

Mayor Blackburn said there would be no tables, chairs, tents or electrical outlets at the yard sale area. Portable toilets will be set-up in the area. Set-up begins at 7 a.m. on Oct. 1. Vendor parking will be on the Church Street side of the Southern Bank area.

Battle of the Bands n The 2004 version of this event was a huge success, won by BackDraft. The format is the same this year n a limit of 10 bands and a $50 entry fee. Prizes will be awarded to the top three bands.

Bands will be judged on stage presence, professionalism, technical ability, appearance, difficulty of selection and creativity.

Each band is expected to put on a 20-minute set consisting of two original songs and two cover songs. Bands, with assistance from event volunteers, have 20 minutes to set-up and tear-down.

Participating groups must agree to adhere to the rules and regulations of the event. Those determined to be in violation of the rules will be disqualified.

Bands interested in participation are urged to immediately contact Brenda Velazquez at Mug Shotz Caf\u00E9 on Main Street in Ahoskie or call 332-MUGG (6844).

Ahoskie Heritage Day is a town wide event. The majority of the scheduled events will be centered along Main Street, from the Southern Bank area west to the old Ahoskie High School gym. However, it is an event the entire town can take pride in and support.

Heritage Day sponsorships are currently available. Different financial levels are offered. To become a sponsor, contact Stan Dixon of the Downtown Merchants Association at 332-2712.