Chamber News
September Chamber Events
WHAT MATTERS Warren-The Front Royal/ Warren County Chamber of Commerce is kicking off fall with three fabulous opportunities for business owners, citizens and tourists alike! In this interview, Nikki Foster Cales shares three of their top events for September.
Don’t miss the many other activities hosted by the Chamber or its members by signing up for their complimentary weekly email list at https://frontroyalchamber.com/contact/enewsletter-signup/. Do you know of a small business or nonprofit which would benefit from the marketing, education and networking that membership provides (starting at $125 per year)? If so, please share the membership application: https://frontroyalchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Membership-Application-2018.pdf
Stop by the Chamber office for a chat with Niki or Pam to learn more about the impressive rewards of being a part of this dynamic organization*:
201 E. 2nd Street | Front Royal, VA 22630
540.635.3185
www.frontroyalchamber.com
nfoster@frontroyalchamber.com
FALL PROFESSIONAL HEAD SHOT EVENT
Put your best face forward! Fall is unofficially here and it’s time to update your professional image. The Chamber has partnered with Tolliver Studios to update your professional head shot on September 10th (9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) and September 12th (noon-6 p.m.). $40/Chamber members $55/Non-members. You will receive one digital image of your choice. Additional images available through Tolliver Studios. Appointments available every 15 minutes. Contact the Chamber 540.635.3185 to reserve your spot today. Payment must be received in advance of the event.
SMALL BUSINESS COMMITTEE HOSTS JOB FAIR
The Chamber’s Small Business Committee invites employers to participate in our Fall Job Fair to be held at Samuels Public Library on September 10th, 1:30-4 p.m.
Employer contract can be found here:
https://frontroyalchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Job-Fair-Contract-Sept-2019.pdf
Individuals seeking employment are encouraged to come prepared, bring resumes and dress to impress! Contact the Chamber at 540-635-3185 or info@frontroyalchamber.com with questions.
2019 RIVER & BREWS FESTIVAL
(FORMERLY BREW & BLUES FESTIVAL)
Fun abounds in downtown Front Royal, Virginia on Saturday, September 21, 2019! Bring your family and enjoy a day of fun, delicious food, great live entertainment, and of course, beer tasting. The festival gates open at noon with activities (including corn hole and yard games) and live entertainment all day until 6 p.m.
Come and enjoy tastings of 60+ different beers from breweries all over Virginia and elsewhere. Food trucks and vendors will be offer a myriad of tasty treats and you can always stroll downtown and enjoy one of our many fantastic local eateries. Downtown also offers a wide array of unique shopping opportunities and historic walking tours and museums for your enjoyment as well. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and find a seat around the gazebo to enjoy live entertainment. The entertainment schedule is as follows: Ryan Jewel Noon – 2:30 p.m. and The Reflex Band 3 – 5:30 p.m.
Admission is $25 in advance or $30 at the gate for beer tasters. Beer tasters will receive a commemorative souvenir tasting glass, a wristband and 5 tickets for samplings or the purchase of full beers. Additional beer tickets will be available for purchase. VIP $65 and only 100 are sold.
Advance tickets can be purchased in a number of ways; Online or by visiting the Chamber of Commerce at 201 E. 2nd Street, Front Royal or the Front Royal Visitor Center at 414 E. Main Street, Front Royal. General Admission is FREE. Beer tasters must be 21 years of age or older and will be required to present a photo I.D.
BENEFITS OF CHAMBER MEMBERSHIPvSamuels Public Library
Your annual investment in the Chamber is tax-deductible as a business expense and start at $135 for sole proprietorships (there are also a substantially discounted memberships for individuals, non-profits and Realtors affiliated with a member firm in good standing).
Membership Application 2019
https://frontroyalchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Membership-Application-2018.pdf
A national study performed by The Schapiro Group (Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm) showed that a business, which has invested in membership in a local Chamber of Commerce, enjoys a 49 percent increase in its consumer favorability, and there is an 80 percent increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future.
Benefits of Membership
*ABOVE INFORMATION FROM WEBSITE @ www.frontroyalchamber.com
Ask any happy Chamber member for a reference about the many ways membership has contributed to their business! Not a business owner? Join with a discounted individual membership and/or become a much-needed volunteer (enjoy unlimited rewarding opportunities for service that can fit around your busy schedule).
WHAT MATTERS:
Are you or your group in need of a free video that could be created to help market your cause or event? Beth’s WHAT MATTERS Warren videos post on Facebook and Youtube. They are also shared with the Royal Examiner online (most are distributed in their daily email blast to thousands of local residents). Sign up for the Royal Examiner at www.royalexaminer.com and check out the “WHAT MATTERS Warren” tab under “Features.”
Learn more about Beth’s nonprofit, WHAT MATTERS, a 501 (c) (3), at www.whatmattersw2.com–check out the “Community” section to request a TOWN TIP or WHAT MATTERS WARREN BETHvid or contact her at 540-671-6145 or beth@whatmattersw2.com.
About WHAT MATTERS:
WHAT MATTERS is a 501(c)(3) that focuses on local and global outreach to help spread the word, support and raise funds for causes that matter (primarily through Facebook). WHAT MATTERS has ZERO overhead as 100% of the expenses are funded by Beth’s real estate business thanks to her clients and supporters. Every cent raised goes to the cause she’s promoting and most are matched by Beth. If you’d like to get involved with her local or international nonprofit work, or travel to Africa with her on a future trip to work with the children of Light up Life Foundations, please visit www.whatmattersw2.com.
Chamber News
Front Royal’s Phoenix Project Celebrates 10 Years of Empowering Survivors
The Phoenix Project celebrated its 10th anniversary in a significant community event, marking a decade of vital contributions to combat domestic and sexual violence in Front Royal and Warren County. The celebration was graced by Niki Foster, the executive director of the Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce, Bryon Biggs, Chamber President, and Front Royal Town Councilman Glenn Wood, who all congratulated and supported the organization.
The Phoenix Project, known for its dedicated service in providing hope and help to those affected by domestic and sexual violence, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the milestone. This event highlighted the organization’s decade-long service and highlighted the ongoing challenges in addressing these critical community issues.
Speakers, including Councilman Wood and Bryon Biggs, reflected on the organization’s impact and the persistent need for such services during the event. Biggs remarked on the unfortunate reality that the problem of violence has not diminished as hoped, underscoring the importance of the Phoenix Project’s work in the community.
Tammy Sharp, the outgoing Executive Director, and Avery Harper, the incoming Executive Director, shared their experiences and the organization’s achievements over the past ten years. Under their leadership, the Phoenix Project has responded to over 10,000 calls, provided over 3,000 nights of shelter, and reached more than 13,000 people through community education and outreach.
The celebration also included the announcement of significant donations from local organizations, with the Moose Lodge contributing $25,000 and the Massanutten Association of Realtors donating $500. These contributions will support the ongoing efforts to aid survivors and combat domestic and sexual violence in the community.
As the Phoenix Project looks to the future, its leaders and community supporters remain committed to deepening their impact and providing essential services to those in need. With strong community backing and a dedicated team at the helm, the Phoenix Project is poised to face the next decade’s challenges with renewed vigor and commitment.
For more information about the Phoenix Project and how to support its mission, please visit their website or contact their office directly.
Chamber News
Downtown Front Royal Celebrates Launch of New Farmers Market
Chamber News
Front Royal Welcomes CBM Team of Supreme Lending with Enthusiasm and Optimism
Front Royal, Virginia, celebrated a significant business merger that marks a promising future for local economic development. The CBM Team, a longstanding local business entity, has officially joined forces with Supreme Lending, expanding its reach and capacity to serve the community more effectively.
Nike Foster, Executive Director of the Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce, and Mayor Lori Cockrell welcomed the CBM Team to our community. The event underscored a vibrant community spirit and the potential for economic growth. Byron Biggs, Chairman of the Chamber, highlighted the merger as a symbol of positive evolution in the local business landscape. It is now poised to extend its influence beyond Virginia.
Mayor Cockrell shared personal anecdotes, reflecting on the profound local ties and the exceptional character of the individuals involved, particularly noting the entrepreneurial spirit of Cory Michael, a former student of hers and now a regional manager for Team CBM. Her words painted a picture of a community that values deep personal connections and collective growth.
The merger promises substantial benefits to Front Royal, bringing enhanced services and opportunities for home ownership that were previously out of reach for many residents. This union is a merger of two companies and a fusion of cultures and aspirations, aiming to enrich the local community while maintaining the cherished CBM brand identity.
Attendees left the event with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future, confident in the continued prosperity and communal strength of Front Royal.
Chamber News
Progressive Automotive Gears Up for Growth with New Commerce Avenue Location
The Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce and Mayor Lori Cockrell welcomed Russell Lineburg of Progressive Automotive to their newly expanded location at 190 N Commerce Avenue in Front Royal. The event was marked by a joyous ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local dignitaries, community members, and the enthusiastic team behind Progressive Automotive.
Russell, known for his dedication to quality automotive services, expressed his gratitude towards his family, employees, and loyal customers who have supported his journey. “It’s not just a growth of space,” he mentioned, “but a leap towards serving our community better with more efficiency and dedication.”
Mayor Cockrell commended Russell for investing in the community and creating a trusted service that citizens rely on. “It’s businesses like Progressive Automotive that create jobs and foster community spirit,” the Mayor said.
Progressive Automotive opened its doors in 2012 and has since outgrown its initial location due to its robust clientele and expanding service offerings. The new space features more service bays and advanced equipment, allowing for a wider range of automotive repairs and services, from oil changes to engine and transmission work.
During the event, Russell shared a glimpse into his business’s history and growth. “It was about taking a risk with what we had, and it’s paid off with hard work and community support,” he reflected.
The new location on Commerce Avenue is more spacious and accessible, promising easier entries and exits for customers. This move signifies an expansion and a commitment to being a cornerstone in the community for automotive care.
Russell’s vision extends beyond business growth. He is passionate about cultivating talent within the automotive industry. He constantly seeks to hire and train the next generation of technicians, ensuring that essential skills continue to thrive in the community.
As Progressive Automotive prepares for future growth, Russell and his team remain focused on delivering high-quality and customer-centric services and ensuring that every client receives the best care. The community is encouraged to visit the new location and enjoy the reliable service synonymous with Progressive Automotive.
Chamber News
Melodies on Main: Community Cheers as Money Pit Recording Studio Opens Doors
Chamber News
Front Royal’s Ledo Pizza: A Story of Growth, Community, and Delicious Pizza
In a ceremony filled with community spirit, the Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce commemorated a significant milestone for one of its most cherished local businesses, Ledo Pizza. The event was not just a celebration of Ledo Pizza’s success but also a testament to the strength and unity of the local business community.
Niki Foster-Cales, the chamber’s Executive Director, and Byron Biggs, the Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman, enthusiastically and gracefully spearheaded the ceremony. They welcomed Grace Timmerman, the proud owner of Ledo Pizza in Front Royal, and together, they shared a moment of pride and joy that resonated with everyone present.
Grace Timmerman, who has been at the helm of Ledo Pizza for five years, shared her journey from starting as a waitress in 2012 to becoming the manager and eventually owning her own location. “It’s like the American dream,” she remarked, acknowledging the support and partnership of her colleague Tony, who played a crucial role in her path to sole ownership and success.
Under Timmerman’s stewardship, Ledo Pizza has become a staple of the Front Royal community, known for its commitment to quality, community involvement, and never cutting corners—both figuratively and literally. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was lively, with a countdown leading to the symbolic snipping of the ribbon, marking a new chapter for Timmerman and Ledo Pizza.
Looking ahead, Timmerman expressed her desire to deepen community ties further, particularly with local schools and sports teams. Through sponsorships and support, she aims to give back to the community that has embraced her business so warmly.
This celebration underscores the importance of local businesses in shaping the character and economy of Front Royal. As Ledo Pizza continues to serve up delicious meals with a side of community spirit, it’s clear that their story is far from over; it’s just another slice of the thriving local business scene in Front Royal.