The Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast (SACS) is looking for community bakers ages 14 and older to submit their entries in the American Heroes Apple Pie Contest to be held Sept. 12. The contest is a featured part of the festivities surrounding the upcoming American Heroes, Celebrating Americans’ Strength in Story and Song event to honor local heroes and celebrate the American spirit following the 9/11 tragedy. There is no entry fee for the pie contest.

Executive Director Jan Schmidt explained the mouth watering process to enter.

"Apple pies in two categories will be accepted," Schmidt said. "One is the traditional two-crust with apple filling, and the other utilizes nontraditional ingredients, made mostly from apples but which can include other items such as nuts, cream, and more."

Pies and their accompanying recipes must be dropped off at the Storytelling Arts Center, 131 S. Main Street, Laurinburg between 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. on the day of the contest.

"Winners will receive their ribbons at 12:15 p.m. on the main festival stage," Schmidt said, "and they will also have their recipes posted on the SACS website."

Interested contestants may view the entry guidelines and registration materials at www.storyartscenter.org.

American Heroes, Celebrating Americans’ Strength in Story and Song takes place in downtown Laurinburg on Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. In addition to the apple pie contest, the festival features children’s activities, food vendors, exhibits, musical entertainment,

and a storytelling program.

The registration deadline is September 10. Call 291-0929 for more information.