Downtown Local Celebrates One-Year Anniversary with Community Support

Downtown Local marked its one-year anniversary on Main Street with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together community members, business leaders, and town officials in a show of support for the growing local business.

The event was hosted by the Front Royal–Warren County Chamber of Commerce, with Executive Director Niki Foster welcoming attendees and recognizing the deli’s impact over the past year.

“This is one of my absolute favorite places on Main Street,” Foster said, praising the business’s food and atmosphere.

Chamber representatives and local leaders highlighted the importance of small businesses in strengthening the town’s identity. Bret Bement, from Play Favorites, representing the Chamber, noted the significance of the moment.

“This is the first ribbon-cutting after Front Royal is once again on the national stage,” Bement said. “The fact that Main Street businesses are showing up for you says a lot about what you’ve built in just one year.”

Mayor Lori Cockrell also spoke during the ceremony, referencing the recent royal visit to Front Royal as part of a memorable year for the community.

“Did you ever think that in your first year of business, the King and Queen would be visiting the town?” Cockrell said. “That’s a unique first year.”

She also emphasized the importance of collaboration among local businesses.

“You guys support each other, and that’s so important,” she said. “That’s what makes our small town special and why people want to come here.”

Downtown Local owner Trish Katula became emotional as she addressed the crowd, thanking her family and the community for their support.

“The most important thank you is to my parents for supporting me from day one,” Katula said. “Everyone in this room has been such a huge support. If it wasn’t for you, I don’t know if I’d still be here.”

Following the ceremony, Katula spoke about the deli’s mission to serve fresh, local ingredients and to create a welcoming space for customers.

“We just want people to come in, hang out, and enjoy being here,” she said.

Katula credited her parents, Jane and Woody Sinko, for helping her throughout the first year of business.

“They show up when I need them, even on last-minute requests,” she said. “I couldn’t be more appreciative.”

Downtown Local has become known for both its food and its atmosphere, offering items like the “Leaf Peeper” sandwich with cranberry mayonnaise and the “Local Club,” both inspired by the region.

Customers can also enjoy a unique in-store experience, including vintage games and a relaxed environment designed to bring people together.

Looking ahead, Katula plans to expand hours and continue building on the deli’s success.

“We’re just going to keep pumping out delicious food and supporting everybody,” she said.

Downtown Local is currently open Wednesday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with plans to extend hours in the near future.

Thanks to Fussell Florist for providing the ribbon.