Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce is reaching out to prospective Hartselle shoppers with a drawing for valuable prizes as a part of its 2013 Spring Fling trade promotion.

The event coincides with the city’s annual Cotton Pickin’ BBQ Cook-Off, which is scheduled Fri. and Sat., May 17-18, in the central business district.

Here’s how it works:

• List the products and services you want and need and buy them at Hartselle stores and businesses

• Save the receipts and present them at the Chamber office to receive a ticket for each $10 purchase, up to 200 tickets, on Sat., May 18, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. A complimentary ticket will be given to anyone who asks for one.

• Valuable prizes, ranging from an electric smoker to set of pearl earrings, will be awarded to holders of winning tickets.

Purchases made between May 4 and 5 p.m. on May 18 qualify for drawing tickets, according to Chamber President Susan Hines.

“The purpose of Spring Fling is to make people more aware of the shopping opportunities that exist in Hartselle,” Hines pointed out. “Stores are fully stocked and staffed and offering good buys on popular summer merchandise. It’s a good time to shop and save.

“It’s also important to note that the tax money the city receives from retail sales is essential to provide adequate revenue for our schools and other public services.”

The BBQ cook-off is expected to attract more than 50 competitors from throughout Alabama and adjoining states. They will set up on Railroad, Hickory and South Sparkman streets and adjoining city-owned lots, beginning Fri., May 17. Competition for cash prizes and other awards will be in two division, backyard and professional.

A people’s choice tasting will take place on Friday, beginning at 5:30 p.m. A nominal fee will be charged to participate and take part in the judging.

Food and merchandise venders will also participate.