Latest from Laker Weekly

• Animal aid - Struggling economy results in more homeless pets.
• No-kill animal shelter in Bedford still in the works - The Humane Society may break ground on the project in the next eight months.
• Backpacks are back - Students will feel budget cuts
• Bassmaster won't return to Smith Mountain Lake next year - The pro fishing tournament attracted thousands in previous years.
• 3 accidents reported on Smith Mountain Lake last week - The 2010 accident count still is lower than this time last year.
• Finz closes, boat slips in repair at Crystal Shores - Manager of Finz Bar and Grille filed for personal bankruptcy last month.
• Franklin County Chamber of Commerce to shut doors - Although the physical office will close, the organization will keep working for local businesses.
• Land in limbo - How properties adjacent to Booker T. Washington National Monument will be developed concerns park officials.
• Booker T. Washington National Monument visitor center expansion under way - The second phase can't begin until the park secures $500,000.
• TLAC gets go-ahead to treat weeds - Smith Mountain Lake residents can call the weed hotline if they see something suspicious.

Latest from Smith Mountain Laker Magazine

• Virginia Master Naturalists - Blue Ridge Foothills & Lakes Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist Program
• Academic Impact - The Gereua Center in Rocky Mount enables students to explore