The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Are you a natural-born liar, more politely called a "good storyteller”? Have you always wanted to learn the tricks of convincingly stretching the truth? Professional storyteller Leslie Slape, winner of last year's Tall Tales contest, will teach the art of fabrication in preparation for the second annual Tall Tales Contest. This free storytelling workshop will be held 10 a.m. to noon, Sat, April 12, at Teague's Interiors, 1267 Commerce Ave., Longview.

The second annual Tall Tales and Persuasive Speech Contest, co-sponsored by Early Words Toastmasters and Lower Columbia College Forensics, will be held Tuesday, May 6 with registration at 5:15 p.m. It's also free to enter with more than $1,000 in scholarships, cash and prizes being offered. Contest tales must be original and 5-7 minutes in length. Subject matter must be of a highly exaggerated, improbable nature and have a theme or plot. Humor and props may be used to support or illustrate the speech.

These events are sponsored by two local Toastmasters clubs: Early Words meets Tuesday mornings, 6:05-7:30 a.m. Encouraging Words meets Thursday evenings, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Both meet in the Community Room at Canterbury Park, 1335 3rd Ave, 2nd Floor, Longview.

The free two-hour workshop on April 12 will help you crystallize and develop your presentation in preparation for the Tall Tales competition. This is an opportunity to practice your storytelling skills and possibly win hundreds of dollars in cash, prizes or scholarships at the contest. Advance registration is preferred.

To register or for more information contact Leslie Slape - leslie.slape@gmail.com - 360-431-5332.