Challenge readers know about creative uses of boots, including Lynn Martin in Chapel Hill, who knew the answer to last week's Challenge: "Where in Croatan, N.C., can you give yourself a 'kick in the pants?'"

As Martin replied, "At an antique/gift store named Martha's Favorite Things located at 6241 U.S. Highway 70 East in New Bern, N.C. Located next to this shop is a replica of Tom Haywood's Self-Kicking Machine. The original self-kicking machine was built by Wilbur Herring at Tom Haywood's request, and is believed to have been donated to the N.C. Museum of History by Mr. Haywood's Family."

So, what is it? "The self-kicking machine is composed of a wheel with four spokes; each with its own boot or shoe. To kick one's self, a person turns his/her back to the boots/shoes on the machine, and turns the crank, activating the wheel and allowing him/herself to be kicked in the posterior as the boots turn! The 'victim' can control the intensity of the kicks depending upon the gravity of the offense for which s/he is seeking atonement. Local legend says that Lucille Ball kicked herself on the self-kicking machine after losing a political wager, and that Babe Ruth visited the store many times while on hunting trips to the Croatan area. However, Babe Ruth's visits occurred before the installation of the self-kicking machine."

Martin concludes, "Sounds like an interesting spot to stop if you are driving that way in the future!"

A pair of tickets to the Lumina Theaters is on the way to Martin.

Now it's time to reveal next week's Challenge. Here's how it works. Every week we'll pose a trivia question that has something to do with our community or North Carolina. The question might be about something that happened 20 years ago or someone who made the news just yesterday.

If you think you know the answer, send e-mail to chquiz@aol.com, or mail it on a postcard to Chapel Hill Challenge, The Chapel Hill Herald, 2828 Pickett Road, Durham, NC 27705. You also can send us a fax at (919) 419-6889. Make sure you include your name, address and phone number. Answers must be received by Thursday of the same week. Employees of the Durham Herald Co. are not eligible for the Challenge.

Each week there will be a drawing from all the correct answers. The winner will receive a pair of movie passes donated by the Lumina Theater in Southern Village. (Note: Passes may not be valid for certain shows.)

Ready to give it a try? Then hang on to your hat while pondering the following: "Why does Vollis Simpson in Lucama, N.C., like a stiff breeze?"

Good luck!