While the rains came down in sheets during the 2000 Vandalia Gathering, participants found themselves knee-deep in some of West Virginia's tallest tales. The annual State Liars Contest began as usual on Sunday afternoon in the Cultural Center theater, then was abruptly moved to a basement conference room as the skies opened up and the festival "rain plan" took effect.
When all was said and done, John W. Smith of Meadow Creek was crowned the new state champion liar; Mark Howes of Helvetia won second place, Gary Buchanan of Calhoun County took third prize, and Sean Wiegand of Meadow Bridge received a Youth Award.
Click below to read the complete text of all the winning lies. Congratulations to the winners!