In this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, PJ sits down with Joey Donovant, founder of SML Gives Inc., to share how a deep love for Smith Mountain Lake turned into a powerful mission to fight hunger and end poverty across our community.

Joey talks about his journey from nonprofit work in Durham, North Carolina, to landing full-time at the “jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains” and seeing firsthand the needs of homebound, food-insecure neighbors in Bedford, Franklin, and Pittsylvania counties. Unlike traditional pantries, SML Gives focuses on the people who can’t get to a pantry at all—seniors, those facing illness, and neighbors living alone in rural areas. Through partnerships with organizations like Lake Christian Ministries and Stepping Stone Mission, SML Gives delivers food directly to their doors… and just as importantly, brings human connection.

Joey and PJ also spotlight the biggest fundraiser of the year: the SML Gives Holiday Benefit at Magnum Point Marina on Saturday, December 13, 2025, starting at 5:30 PM. Guests will enjoy a gourmet steak or salmon dinner prepared by the teams from Napoli by the Lake and Napoli Cowboy, with food provided by US Foods, entertainment by Sound Dog Productions, drink tickets included, a silent auction, 50/50 raffles, prizes, and a few surprise guests, maybe even one from the North Pole. 🎅

Whether you live at the lake full-time, visit often, or just love this community from afar, this conversation is a reminder that it truly takes a village, and that your support can put real meals on real tables this holiday season and beyond.

Learn more & get involved:

🌐 Website: smlgivesinc.org

📞 Call or text Joey: 919-432-3078 (on call 24/7 for SML Gives)

🛒 Donate or learn about food drop-off locations via smlgivesinc.org

🎟️ Holiday Benefit Tickets: online at smlgivesinc.org or in person at Detour Dental and Magnum Point Marina

If you have suggestions for guests for the SML Buzz Podcast, message PJ Belle on Facebook or call her at 540-525-0134.

Learn more about the properties that PJ has available by visiting her website, PJatTheLake.com and When you are ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: 540-525-0134. You will be glad you did!

In this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, PJ Belle sits down with Bedford County Commissioner Edgar Tuck—on his birthday, no less—to talk about how Bedford County is growing, evolving, and staying true to its roots.

From expanding broadband access across the region to managing growth along Route 122, improving local infrastructure, and addressing key community needs like landfill management and school renovations, Edgar shares updates that impact every corner of the county. He also gives listeners a look ahead at exciting new residential and commercial developments—including major projects that could be game-changers for the Smith Mountain Lake area.

Plus, you’ll hear a few fun throwbacks to 80s rock concerts and life on a fifth-generation family farm. This episode is packed with insight, laughter, and a true sense of community pride.

Learn more about Bedford County: https://www.bedfordcountyva.gov/

Contact Edgar: eTuck@BedfordCountyVA.gov

If you have suggestions for guests for the SML Buzz Podcast, message PJ Belle on Facebook or call her at 540-525-0134.

Learn more about the properties that PJ has available by visiting her website, PJatTheLake.com and When you are ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: 540-525-0134. You will be glad you did!

In this episode of The SML Buzz Podcast, PJ Belle welcomes Bryce Martin, Executive Director of the Rotary Club of Smith Mountain Lake, for an inspiring conversation about how local service can create big impact.

Bryce shares the long and meaningful history of Rotary — a global network of over 34,000 clubs built on the motto “Service Above Self.” He dives into how the Smith Mountain Lake chapter takes that worldwide mission and applies it locally through programs that support education, families, and emergency response initiatives.

From student scholarships and teacher recognition banquets to grants for local law enforcement and community projects like playgrounds and bathhouse builds, Bryce highlights how Rotary’s volunteers quietly power countless initiatives around the lake. He also shares details about signature events such as Lobsters at the Lake and the upcoming Moneta Madness Disc Golf Tournament, which raise funds and awareness for important causes — often partnering with organizations like Lake Christian Ministries.

The episode also covers the 911 Dock Sign Program, which helps improve emergency response on the lake, and encourages listeners to get involved — whether by volunteering, donating, or becoming a sponsor.

As PJ says, it’s all about community — neighbors helping neighbors, creating that “win-win” spirit that makes Smith Mountain Lake shine.

Learn more about The Rotary Club of Smith Mountain Lake: https://www.smlrotary.com/

Learn more about PJ at the Lake: https://www.pjatthelake.com/

Email us with any comments or suggestions for future guests: PJ@PJatTheLake.com

When You Are Ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: 540-525-0134