In this encore episode of SML Buzz, host PJ Bell interviews Angela Sherfield, the manager of Mango's at Smith Mountain Lake. Angela shares her journey from Virginia Beach to managing a popular local restaurant, discussing her extensive experience in the service industry. The conversation highlights various community events hosted by Mango's, including charity competitions and music festivals. Angela also talks about staffing, the excitement of returning employees, and the vibrant atmosphere at Mango's during the summer. The episode concludes with details on how to contact Mango's for events and more information.

Takeaways

Angela has been in the service industry for almost 20 years.

Mango's has been operating since 2001, celebrating its 24th season.

The restaurant hosts various community events, including charity competitions.

Upcoming events include the Hook Line and Mic competition and the Harmony for Hope event.

Angela has hired several new staff members for the summer season.

Mango's offers karaoke and trivia nights during the summer.

The menu changes seasonally, with new items introduced each year.

Angela emphasizes the importance of community engagement and support.

The restaurant has a strong returning clientele and positive reviews.

Listeners can find more information about Mango's on their website and Facebook page.

When You Are Ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: https://www.pjatthelake.com

This episode of SML Buzz, hosted by PJ Belle, spotlights Ruth Simonet, board member of ONE Forest School, located near Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia. The conversation begins with technical hiccups and lighthearted banter about names and personal backgrounds, setting a friendly and informal tone for the show.

About One Forest School

• One Forest School is a nonprofit educational organization founded by Catherine Eubank, a certified Virginia Master Naturalist. The school is entering its seventh year and offers a unique blend of forest-based learning and traditional academics for preschool through sixth grade students.
• The school operates year-round, featuring a 36-week academic program and a 12-week summer camp. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on, outdoor learning in nature, aiming to serve children who thrive outside the conventional public school environment.
• One Forest School was originally created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing an alternative for families seeking a different educational experience during school closures.

Community Engagement and Events

• The school hosts an annual Fall Festival around Halloween, which serves as a major community event and an opportunity for families to tour the school.
• Summer camp runs from late May to mid-August, offering flexible enrollment options including daily and weekly rates to accommodate both local and visiting families. Tuition assistance is available for families in need.
• Open enrollment for the academic year typically occurs in late August, with an open house event for prospective families. Enrollment remains open throughout the year for families seeking alternatives to public school.

How to Get Involved

• One Forest School welcomes volunteers and community support. Interested individuals can find contact information, including email and phone number, on the school’s website (oneforestschool.org) and Facebook page.
• The school encourages local families, especially those in Huddleston and surrounding areas, to visit, volunteer, or enroll their children.

Additional Notes

• The episode features playful exchanges between PJ and Ruth, including jokes about names, branding, and the challenges of running a nonprofit school.
• The hosts highlight the importance of promoting local nonprofits and fostering community connections at Smith Mountain Lake.

Contact and More Information

• For details on enrollment, volunteering, or upcoming events, listeners are directed to the One Forest School website and the SML Buzz Facebook Page.

When you are ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: 540-525-0134. For more information, visit https://www.pjatthelake.com/

In this engaging conversation, Kristin Dunker shares her journey from New Jersey to Smith Mountain Lake, her experiences as a small business owner, and the creation of 'The Current', a positive news publication that connects local businesses with the community. She discusses the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of supporting local businesses, and her vision for the future of 'The Current'. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement, positivity, and the joy of discovering local culture.

Key Takeaways:

Kristin moved to Smith Mountain Lake from New Jersey in the 80s.

She started The Current to fill a gap in local business information.

The Current aims to provide positive news and support local businesses.

Kristin emphasizes the importance of community engagement.

The publication has over 2,000 subscribers and a strong social media presence.

She enjoys featuring local writers and artists in The Current.

The Current is designed to be a quick, enjoyable read under five minutes.

Kristin is planning a special celebration for the 100th issue of The Current.

The website offers a wealth of resources for locals and visitors alike.

Kristin's vision is to keep The Current a reliable source for local information.

Learn more about The Current SML: https://www.thecurrentsml.com

When You Are Ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: https://www.pjatthelake.com