The Current is a twice monthly online publication for Smith Mountain Lake and surrounding areas. It is designed as a gentle read to introduce you to people and places in the community and encourage you to create a life you love. We are a reader-supported e-magazine and resource website.
You may have heard that Westlake institution, The Southern Goat (near The Bagel & I), relocated to Rocky Mount last year. Lucky for us, an adorable new shop, Pieces Too Boutique, took over the space in November and has brought along with it a fresh take on women's apparel, accessories, and gifts.
As soon as you open the door, the attractive styling and friendly staff draw you in. Clothing racks offer basic staples mixed with whimsical boho finds. I especially loved the diverse jewelry and shoe collections - again running the gamut from classic to quirky.
If you're looking for a gift (birthday/hostess/just because), there is a vast array of bath and body products to choose from…salts, soaps, lotions, and potions… you're sure to find just the perfect thing!
"Spring will come and so will happiness. Hold on. Life will get warmer."
- Anita Krizzan
Image By: Mary Cauley Bryant
two.
- PUZZLE SWAP -
Come join us for our next Puzzle Swap at the Westlake Library (beside Kroger). There is no limit to the amount of puzzles you can bring/swap. Like new/gently used only. Please note any missing pieces. Each puzzle should be contained in a Ziplock bag within the box. Feel free to share and invite your friends!
The following is from an SMLA Press Release regarding the overall water quality of the lake.
Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA) has released the final report from water quality monitoring in 2025. The results for parameters tested are in line with the 20-year averages, which is very good news for the health of Smith Mountain Lake.
Early 2025 test results showed unfavorably elevated levels of phosphorus and algae and reduced water clarity, mostly related to multiple bouts of heavy rain in May. Each of the tested parameters improved significantly as the summer progressed.
The 2025 Water Quality Monitoring Program report is posted on the SMLA website. The report shares 84 pages of technical data and scientific analyses. Three key parameters are sampled to assess the trophic status of the lake.
These are:
● Chlorophyll-a concentration, which is an indication of algae in the water.
● Total Phosphorus, an important nutrient that in large amounts can contribute to excess growth of algae.
● Water clarity, which reflects the density of particles suspended in the water, primarily algae and sediment.
These parameters can vary for different parts of the lake. The uppermost areas of the lake experience less favorable results than the lowermost areas that are closer to the dam. The nutrients and sediment that flow into the lake from the surrounding watershed tend to gradually settle out from the water as it winds its way downstream.
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five.
- CANINE MASTER CLASS -
By: Beatrice Iceman
I once had a dog whose lesson changed my life. He was a big, old Yellow Lab, a rescue from people who called Duke "stupid." Turns out, they were the stupid ones.
I had worked myself into a panic about a special form that had to get to the IRS right away. What if it arrived late or got lost in the mail? Would there be a penalty? A BIG penalty? Arrest? Jail time? Isn't that how the FEDS got Al Capone?
Just then, I noticed Duke lying on the braided rug near the fireplace, so relaxed and peaceful. Duke didn't worry about his next vet appointment or if our neighbors would bring home yet another cat. If his food bowl might get kicked under the sofa or his favorite toy lose its stuffing. Duke's head wasn't full of the "what ifs" of tomorrow. He lived in the moment.
My old Yellow Lab taught me not to worry about things I couldn't change. They might happen. They might not. Worrying makes no difference.
Live in today. Duke inspired me to have a major life shift. I changed decades of habit to become a new and much happier person. Duke was one smart dog.
Beatrice Iceman is a life-long writer, editor, and teacher of writing on both the corporate and university levels. She has enjoyed the beauty, culture, and history of life at Smith Mountain Lake for 20 years.
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Smith Mountain Lake Moneta, VA 24121, United States
