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

In this inspiring episode of SML Buzz, PJ Belle sits down with Vicki Brooks, founder of the Smith Mountain Lake Cancer Support Foundation.

Vicki shares her powerful personal journey as a breast cancer warrior, from diagnosis and treatment to her decision to give back to the community. What started as an idea for a luncheon quickly grew into a foundation and fundraising events like a sold-out golf tournament and the upcoming Warriors & Survivors Luncheon.

Together, PJ and Vicki discuss:

• The difference between being a cancer warrior and a survivor.
• Why early detection matters—and the surprising insurance barriers that prevent women under 40 from getting mammograms.
• How Vicki’s faith and positive outlook continue to guide her through challenges.
• Ways the Smith Mountain Lake community can get involved through sponsorships, donations, and attending events.

Listeners will come away uplifted by Vicki’s resilience, encouraged by her message of hope, and inspired to support the fight against cancer right here at Smith Mountain Lake.

🔗 Learn more or get involved: smlcsf.org

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

In this engaging conversation, PJ is joined by Liz Harrison, Executive Director of the Smith Mountain Lake Homes Tour to discuss the upcoming Charity Home Tour, highlighting the exciting new features, the impact on local charities, and the importance of community involvement. Liz shares details about the homes on the tour, innovative designs, and the unique themes that make each home special. They also cover ticket sales, logistics, and volunteer opportunities, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the community in supporting local charities through this annual event.

Takeaways

The Charity Home Tour has been running for 34 years, raising over $5 million for local charities.

This year's tour features eight homes, including a rental home for the first time.

The home tour is a 100% volunteer effort, showcasing community dedication.

In the last three years, over $500,000 has been raised for local charities.

The tour provides essential funding for charities that rely on it as their main fundraiser.

Innovative home designs focus on aging in place and creative renovations.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the homes during the tour.

Community involvement is crucial for the success of the home tour and local charities.

The event encourages social gatherings and community spirit among attendees.

Future plans include exciting new features for next year's tour.

Learn more about the SML Charity Homes Tour, Donate and Buy Tickets: https://smlcharityhometour.com/

Contact the SML Charity Homes Tour: SMLCharityHomeTour.ExecDir@gmail.com

Join the SML Buzz Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smlbuzz

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

In this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, host PJBelle reflects on the significance of September 11th and its impact on the community. The conversation with Sheridan Brown, president of the Smith Mountain Lake Arts Council, explores her journey to the area, the vibrant arts community, and the various programs and events that the council supports. They discuss the importance of fundraising, upcoming productions, and the therapeutic benefits of the arts, emphasizing the need for community engagement and support.

Takeaways

• The arts play a crucial role in healing and community building.
• Sheridan Brown has a rich background in education and community service.
• The Smith Mountain Lake Arts Council has been active for 36 years.
• Community involvement is essential for the success of arts programs.
• Fundraising events are vital for supporting youth and scholarship programs.
• The council offers various activities, including music, theater, and visual arts.
• Membership in the Arts Council provides essential support and benefits.
• The therapeutic power of the arts can help individuals cope with stress.
• Collaboration with local organizations enhances community engagement.
• The arts council invites community suggestions for future events.

Learn more about the Smith Mountain Lake Arts Council and how you can help support all of their community efforts by visiting their website: https://smithmountainartscouncil.com/

Join the SML Buzz Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smlbuzz

Learn more about PJ Belle: https://www.pjatthelake.com/

If you have episode suggestions, send us an email! PJ@PJatTheLake.com

In this encore episode of SML Buzz with PJ Belle, you meet Celeste Bailey, owner of Hawaii Fluid Art at Smith Mountain Lake.

Celeste shares her journey from vacationer to full-time resident, and how her love for creativity led her to open an interactive art studio where anyone—from children to grandparents—can discover the joy of poured paint, resin art, and more. From summer kids camps to birthday parties and fundraising partnerships, Hawaii Fluid Art is quickly becoming a hub for fun, community, and giving back. Hear how Celeste combines her background in education, her Hawaiian roots, and her passion for service into a business that celebrates creativity, connection, and community at the lake.

In this episode Celeste also highlights several new events happening at Hawaii Fluid Art. These include puppy painting or “PupCaso” as we like to call it. It is an opportunity to see what real talent your puppy has!

We also have our Paint nights. We are going strong with a schedule of holiday themed paint nights over the next several months

Contact the studio for more information or get a group of people together for a private party.

Additionally, one of the most interesting new products that we are offering are either painted or embellished cowboy hats. These are beautiful with a mixture of leather and lace and gorgeous embellishments. if you prefer we will trace a design onto your hat and you can come in for private painting instruction to create a work of art you'll be proud to wear.

Finally, we encourage people to reach out to us for all those community events that need donations and support because there is nothing like our Smith Mountain Lake community and we love giving back to them.

Learn more about Hawaii Fluid Art Smith Mountain Lake:

https://hawaiifluidart.com/smith-mountain-lake-va/

Contact them: (540) 525-4249

Join the SML Buzz Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smlbuzz

Learn more about PJ Belle: https://www.pjatthelake.com/

If you have episode suggestions, send us an email! PJ@PJatTheLake.com

In this conversation, Jane Winters, Executive Director of Lake Christian Ministries, shares her journey and the impactful work of the organization in the Smith Mountain Lake community. The discussion covers the various programs and services offered, the challenges faced by families in need, and the importance of community engagement and volunteerism. Jane highlights upcoming events and fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting the growing demand for services, emphasizing the organization's commitment to helping individuals achieve self-sufficiency and stability.

Takeaways

Jane Winters moved to Smith Mountain Lake nine years ago and has a background in nonprofit management.

Lake Christian Ministries has about 280 volunteers who provide 98% of direct services.

The organization started as a food pantry and has evolved into a comprehensive crisis center.

New Tomorrow's program addresses the root causes of poverty and helps individuals find meaningful employment.

The pandemic has increased the number of families seeking assistance, particularly young families with children.

Lake Christian Ministries has seen a 58% increase in the number of people coming for help in recent years.

The organization relies entirely on donations and does not receive government funding for its services.

Upcoming events like the Walk to End Poverty aim to raise awareness and funds for the organization.

The Dine Out to Lift Up program encourages local restaurants to donate a portion of their proceeds to support Lake Christian Ministries.

Community engagement and volunteerism are crucial for the success of Lake Christian Ministries.

Learn more about Lake Christian Ministries and how you can help or volunteer:

https://www.lakechristianministries.org/

Join the SML Buzz Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smlbuzz

Learn more about PJ Belle: https://www.pjatthelake.com/

If you have episode suggestions, send us an email! PJ@PJatTheLake.com