The Roanoker - July/August 2017 - 95

WORK IN VINTON

users. And of course, it doesn't stop at the library; guests
will go out for lunch or shop, effectively adding to the
revitalization.
"Visitors come in and see the new library, lighting and
sidewalks, our proximity to the greenway and more," says
Peters. "They see activity and want to stay, which is great
for our economy."
Twin Creeks Brewing, 2015 winners of The Gauntlet, was
another driving force behind the developments. While
midday activities such as running out for lunch or the bank
was always good for business, the evening and weekend
vibe, complete with live music at the brewery, has created
a bigger draw for citizens and visitors.
"We feel like we're home already," says Andy Bishop,
owner and operator of Twin Creeks Brewing. "Our research
over the years showed that breweries do play a role in communities, especially a small town...we treat our establishment like a family-friendly, social environment. People
come with friends and can bring their kids. They have dinner at the food trucks or local restaurants, stay for the live
music and more."
STORES ARE CAPITALIZING on the increased traffic, doing
so by putting out merchandise and signage on sidewalks,

leaving front doors open to encourage walk-ins and more.
In addition to bringing revenue to restaurants, the brewery
also hosts local food trucks. They provide work for locals, offering jobs to Vinton and Roanoke county residents looking
to work in a close-knit, fun environment. Their upcoming
patio expansion and desire for a diverse entertainment clientele will continue to help Vinton's downtown scene grow.
"The clientele who comes to the brewery, they're looking
for an upscale city setting in a beautiful downtown area,"
says Bishop. "Vinton offers all of that and then some."
While the lack of central parking might be a problem
anywhere else, the free parking throughout the area offers
convenience and encourages customers to stroll through
downtown, visit shops on their way to the brewery and
spend more time learning about all Vinton has to offer.
In addition, Vinton encourages new businesses to become part of their community. With The Gauntlet, an annual competition offering grants to hardworking businesses,
local incentive programs and unique grant opportunities,
entrepreneurs are welcomed with open arms to join the
exciting time of growth.
"Vinton is a place where things are happening," says Peters. "It's creating windows of opportunity we didn't have
before."

The Conner Group:
Growing & Expanding
Established in 2015, the Conner Group has over three decades of experience in the financial services industry. The firm offers a wide variety of
programs to help individuals and businesses achieve financial success
through proper planning and risk management. Their firm recognizes that
no two clients are alike; therefore, each strategy is tailored to meet the evolving needs of the client.
The Conner Group enjoys giving back to the community by being involved
in the Vinton and Smith Mountain Lake Area Chambers of Commerce, participating in fundraising efforts, and giving back to clients with educational
workshops and client appreciation events. Their future growth includes the
firm's relocation to downtown Vinton, enabling the Conner Group to add
additional advisors and administrative staff to support their client base.

THE CONNER GROUP
131 E. Lee Avenue, Vinton, VA 24179
(540) 767-6669 | theconnergroup.net
Anthony W. Conner, John B. Conner, Wesley A. Brugh, Frank S. Harman and Crystal Knuttgen are Registered Representatives offering securities through
NYLIFE Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency 2965 Colonnade Drive, Suite 220, Roanoke, VA 24018 ~ 540-982-2241
Anthony W. Conner, John B. Conner, Wesley A. Brugh, Frank S. Harman, Crystal L. Knuttgen and Albert M. Smith are agents licensed to sell insurance
through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through various other independent unaffiliated insurance companies.
The Conner Group is independently owned and operated from NYLIFE Securities LLC and its affiliates.
*Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, a licensed insurance agency

Vınton

| Virginia

http://www.theconnergroup.net

The Roanoker - July/August 2017

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