Bhavani Lorraine Nelson

Speech Contest at Hancock Shaker Village, April 14 Toastmasters Contestants to Present Tall Tales and International Speeches I will be joining contestants from four area Toastmasters public speaking clubs to compete in a speech contest on Saturday, April 14, at Hancock Shaker Village in Hancock, MA. The two-hour event begins at 10:15 a.m., with doors opening at 10 a.m. The public is invited to attend and see how Toastmasters helps people with little speaking experience learn how to “take center stage” to present a speech with courage and confidence. Audience members should arrive on time, as attendees will not be allowed to enter while a speech is in progress. The Tall Tales contest challenges the speaker’s ability to, in three to five minutes, deliver a story that comically tests the listener’s credulity. A classic example of this quintessentially American art form is the story of Paul Bunyan, who is bigger than big and stronger than strong. Contestants giving an International Speech speak for five to seven minutes on any topic, often choosing subjects that are inspiring or motivational. Admission to the contest is free. Those planning to stay afterwards to visit Hancock Shaker Village and its baby farm animals pay an admission fee. Lunch is available in the on-site café. Hancock Shaker Village is located at 1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield, MA  01201. For directions and admissions information, visit www.hancockshakervillage.org.The local public speaking clubs participating in the contest are part of Toastmasters International, a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Learn more at www.toastmasters.org. For more information on the contest, contact Laura Grunfeld at 413-717-0183 or Laura@EveryonesInvited.com .