How do you save a business that is still alive through a terrible economy? John Keaton believes he has some answers. After jumping in to 330 Valley Street more than three years ago, John has rolled through both hard time and hard knocks. Those experiences have helped formulate a plan to re-establish the success of his business, and at the same time introduce some fresh ideas for Scottsville.

As of March 7, 330 Valley has gone non-smoking, is upgrading its menu to include some fresh ideas from Chef Sophie Keady, in conjunction with Dr. Zack Bush, a newly remodeled lounge with the help of Chris Roelofs, and believes the necessary licenses will be in place very soon to introduce to the world Scottsville’s own James River Brewing microbrewery products. Coupled with an exciting spring and summer music lineup, 330 Valley is poised for of a great year.

“My staff and I have worked very hard to come up with innovative ways to attract more people to Scottsville” says Keaton. “We hope to give people not only a reason to come check us at 330 Valley, but leave excited about returning.”

“We very much wanted to create an environment that was open to everyone, and that played a big part in us deciding to go non-smoking. Some existing customers see it as the wrong decision, but the true reason we want people to come is for great food, great music and a quality staff. Not because we are one of the last smoking places.”

Chris Kyle, a director for James River Brewing, has been working with Keaton the last several months to launch JRB’s product line on tap, including some made specifically for 330 Valley. The new brewpub feel of 330 Valley will add some unique character to the business as well as offer products no one can find anywhere else, and should be available in the next few weeks.

Roelofs is generously contributing his expertise in developing a lounge makeover that should be completed later this month. His experience developing restaurant and lounge areas for The Jefferson Theater, Enoteca, Siips Wine Bar, and Lakeside Grill will certainly help adding new life into 330 Valley.

330 Valley presents a strong music lineup with the likes of the blues band Jacabone, the country flavor of Santa Fe and Chad Cash, great rock and roll from the likes of The Seedz, Modern Tactics and Hix, bluegrass from Bennie Dodd and the Hillbilly Orkestra, and others. There is live music with no cover charge Thursday through Saturday nights and are working on a summer open mic program with the Central Virginia Blues Society for Saturday afternoons.

“We are developing attractions that won’t only appeal to people in our community, but that will make us a destination from miles around,” says Keaton. “We believe we have ridden out the worst of times, and are excited about the upcoming year.”