Lake Writers hosting short-story contest

Lake Writers, part of Smith Mountain Arts Council (SMAC), is accepting entries for its annual student writing contest. This year, students are tasked with writing a short story that takes place near Smith Mountain Lake using themes of survival, acceptance or challenge. The lake must be mentioned in the story.

Students will compete in two divisions - middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12) - for cash prizes. First place winners will receive $100, second place will receive $75 and third place will receive $50. Lake Writers may select entries to receive honorable mention with an award of $25.

To be eligible, students must reside in Bedford, Franklin or Pittsylvania counties, or the cities therein. There is no entry fee, although students are restricted to a single entry.

While there is no minimum length, stories must not exceed 2,500 words, and must be typewritten. No handwritten entries will be accepted. Complete rules and formatting guidelines can be found at lakewriters.webs.com.

Entries must be postmarked by Monday, Feb. 20.

Send stories to Lake Writers Student Fiction Contest, c/o Becky Mushko, 8 Listening Hill Road, Penhook, VA 24137.