New territory will once again be explored on July 25 as we are hosting the first-ever News-Herald High School Football Hot Dog Eating Contest as part of a special "NH Chalk Talk" from 8-9 p.m. at Hooley House.

This isn't exactly the same tension I felt leading into the inaugural NH Senior Bowl on June 25, but there is plenty of uncertainty. What is clear, however, is that the contest has gotten great response and support and I hope high school football fans and fans of competitive eating come out between 8-9 p.m. next Monday night for the show.

We have nine two-person teams from area high schools confirmed as competitors - the latest addition being Riverside - and two special teams to round the field to 11. Hooley House is entering an employee team to challenge the local crews, and one special NH Chalk Talk listener team is also entered.

This should be interesting to say the least, and it is a nice bridge for high school football fans until we do our preview show on Aug. 15.

It's only 5 minutes, so there shouldn't be enough time for the players to get sick. Just good competitive eating and a celebration of National Hot Dog Month.

Pass the mustard.

- Bill Tilton