Block Watch to crown hot dog champ

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Neighbors | Submitted.South Wickliffe Block Watch Captain June Galbraith (left) handed out practice hot dogs to Cory Wilfong, Jr., Cody Gamertsfelder and Maya Gamertsfelder. The three contestants were trying to get ready for the Austintown Championship Hot Dog Eating Contest being sponsored by the Wickliffe Block Watch at its block party July 9.

The Wickliffe Block Watch will sponsor an Austintown Championship Hot Dog Eating Contest at its annual Block Party July 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wickliffe Christian Church, 3939 Potomac Ave.

There will be three contests for three age categories; adults 18 and up, juniors 13 to 17 and kids 8 to 12. There will be 10 participants per category, with trophies and awards for all who participate.

The block party is held annually.

“The block party is a great way for neighbors to meet neighbors.” June Galbraith, captain of the south Wickliffe area stated. “It’s a fun, free day for families, with something for everyone.”

Other events for the block party include an antique car show (weather permitting), corn hole, face painting, demonstrations by area safety forces, including a fire truck, an ambulance and a police car for children to explore. The Green Team will be there with games and prizes and the Austintown Fitch cheerleaders will cheer on all the contestants.

A few Austintown businesses will offer information and giveaways. There will also be a Chinese auction.

Free hot dogs, chips and beverages will be available from donations of Watch members and local businesses, but the Block Watch asks that attendees bring sides or desserts, if possible.

The Block Watch was established in 2008 and is the only active Block Watch in Austintown. The Block Watch includes the areas between Raccoon Road to New Road to Meridian Road to Crum Road to Four-Mile Run Road. The members patrol the area by foot and by vehicle. Block Watch meetings are the first Tuesday of each month at Wickliffe Christian Church at 7 p.m.

“The safety of our neighborhoods is the our first concern,” said Galbraith. “All Austintown residents and businesses are welcome to attend.”

For questions on the Block Watch, or to get a registration form for the hot dog eating contest, contact June Galbraith at 234-855-7412 or Shawne Wilfong at 330-774-1803. Volunteers are also needed to help with all aspects of the event.