What happens when someone looks at empty storefronts in downtown Bedford and decides it’s time to DO something about it?

On this episode of SML Buzz, PJ sits down with Mark Pauley, founder and director of Bedford Groundwork, a new community-driven organization focused on bringing people together, turning ideas into action, and helping downtown Bedford thrive.

Mark shares how Bedford Groundwork came together, why revitalizing downtown matters to local businesses and families, and some of the projects already underway, including storefront improvements, plans for an entrepreneur incubator and accelerator, and opportunities for local businesses and residents to get involved.

They also preview Bedford Groundwork’s upcoming community concert on November 21 at the Bedford Farmers Market Pavilion, featuring Seth & Nerva, Big Matt & The Time Machine and American Idol Season 21 runner-up Megan Danielle!

The event will also feature food trucks, vendors and plenty of community fun, all while supporting Bedford Groundwork’s mission of investing back into the revitalization and beautification of downtown Bedford.

Want to learn more, get involved or find event information?

Visit https://bedfordgroundwork.com

It’s another great example of what can happen when people who love their community roll up their sleeves and get to work, and PJ is excited to help spread the word!

🎙️ The SML Buzz Podcast is sponsored by PJ at the Lake. https://www.pjatthelake.com

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

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

BUY or SELL, Call PJ BELLE! 540-525-0134 💃🏻

What does it take to make sure local children have food waiting for them when the school week ends?

On this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, PJ Belle sits down with Lynda Imirie of Food for Kids to talk about an incredible community effort that has grown from helping children at one local elementary school into a program serving students across multiple Bedford County schools.

Food for Kids is currently packing more than 700 bags of food each week, and recently celebrated an incredible milestone: its 150,000th bag packed!

Lynda shares how volunteers, churches, civic organizations, businesses, donors and grant writers all play a role in keeping the program moving forward. She and PJ also discuss the growing need among local families, the challenges of providing nutritious foods children will actually eat, and the many ways people can get involved.

Then, the conversation heads to Smith Mountain Lake for a look inside the spectacular Peccararo home featured in the 35th Annual Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour. Food for Kids is one of the organizations benefiting from this year's tour, and Lynda gives us a preview of this remarkable three-story lakefront home — including incredible views, outdoor living spaces, a full outdoor kitchen and even an elevator!

It's a conversation about neighbors helping neighbors, a community coming together and the simple but powerful belief that children shouldn't have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.

Learn more about Food for Kids: https://www.foodforkidspackasack.org

Learn more about the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour and purchase tickets: https://smlcharityhometour.com

🎙️ The SML Buzz Podcast is sponsored by PJ at the Lake.

https://www.pjatthelake.com

📞 BUY or SELL, Call PJ BELLE! 540-525-0134

Horses can do far more than take us for a ride, they can help build confidence, independence, strength, and skills that carry into everyday life.

On this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, PJ Belle sits down with Julia Lafond, program staff member and Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor with Tackfully Teamed, to talk about the organization’s therapeutic riding program and the impact it is making throughout the community.

Julia shares how Tackfully Teamed works with nearly 35–40 participants each week, using horsemanship and riding skills to help participants develop valuable life skills beyond the barn. She also talks about the horses that make the program possible, the volunteers and interns who help keep everything moving, and the many ways the community can get involved.

The conversation also turns to the 35th Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour, where Tackfully Teamed is connected with the beautiful Sycamore Heritage Home in Penhook. PJ and Julia preview the approximately 5,500-square-foot waterfront home, its modern coastal style, unique guest spaces, and the generations of family history reflected throughout the property.

Plus, learn more about volunteer opportunities, internships, community partnerships, upcoming Tackfully Teamed events, and how you can support the organization. https://www.tackfullyteamed.com/

Learn more and purchase tickets to the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour: https://smlcharityhometour.com

🎙️ SML Buzz Podcast: sharing the people, organizations, events, and stories that make the Smith Mountain Lake community special.

The SML Buzz Podcast is sponsored by PJ at the Lake / PJ Belle.

BUY or SELL, Call PJ BELLE! https://www.pjatthelake.com