The Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the grand opening of Front Royal River Adventures, a new business offering thrilling river experiences to locals and tourists alike. The event was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nike Foster and Front Royal Mayor Lori Cockrell, who expressed their excitement and support for this new venture.

Mayor Cockrell shared her enthusiasm during the ceremony, highlighting the importance of utilizing the area’s natural assets. “It’s a beautiful day to be down here at the river,” she said. I’m so excited to be here with Jeff to officially open Front Royal River Adventures. The mayor reflected on the value of having a river outfitter adventure in the town. “I met Jeff a while back when he brought this idea to us at Front Royal Town Council. I’m super excited that it’s here and ready to open. You know our area has such natural assets, and you’re capitalizing on that. I’m delighted you’re here, excited you’re investing in us, and we will have lots of fun out here.”

Jeff Kelble, the owner of Front Royal River Adventures, also addressed the attendees, expressing his pride and gratitude. “I guess I’d like to say that I’m both proud and honored to open Front Royal River Adventures here right in Front Royal on the South Fork of the Shenandoah,” Kelble stated. “I’d like to thank my family for their patience over the last six months while Whit Overstreet and I, my general manager and future business owner, have worked to take advantage of this great campus that we have here. It’s a park-like setting. We’re directly on the South Fork of the Shenandoah in the town of Front Royal near I-66. It just couldn’t be a better location for us.”

Kelble also emphasized the support he received from the town’s officials and the community. “The town of Front Royal, from staff through the planning commission to the town council, has been incredibly supportive from the beginning. We’ve had no friction. We’ve had a warm welcome from Warren Park, our community, and we want to be a part of this small community and the greater community here and invite our guests, friends, and family to come and play.”

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, our reporter, Mark Williams, spoke with Jeff Kelble for an in-depth look at what Front Royal River Adventures has to offer.

“So Jeff, on behalf of the Royal Examiner, I’d like to congratulate you on the opening of Front Royal River Adventures. And I see behind you, you’ve got canoes and floats and everything. Could you tell us about what we can expect?” asked Williams.

Kelble responded enthusiastically, “So, yeah, we just had our ribbon cutting with the mayor, all the representatives, friends, and family. And we’re celebrating a grand opening weekend. We have been quietly open for a while, working out the kinks. But what we’ve done here is we acquired the VFW property in 2021. The VFW had its headquarters here for several generations but lost its meeting location and couldn’t rebuild. For more than 15 years, it has been on my mind as a great location for a river adventure business or an outfitter, if you will.”

He continued, “We’ve got 12 acres of open field and about a quarter mile of riverfront on the South Fork Shenandoah. Our goal as a business is to be part of the Front Royal community and the greater Shenandoah Valley community, offering family adventure on the river, which includes canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and family rafting. The rafting isn’t on a whitewater stretch but on a gentle flow. We also offer inner tubing, which is probably our number one bestseller in the summer.”

Kelble highlighted the variety of activities and amenities available. “We’re prepared for small groups, individuals, friends, and family, and even larger groups if people want to bring a group of friends or do an event here. We have access to the South Fork right here, which means we can offer two types of river activities. We can take people upriver in the traditional outfitting model, where they float down to our location, and then they’re free to go home or stay and enjoy the campus. We’ll have horseshoe, Frisbee, and field games, and they can picnic and enjoy our pavilion, which can accommodate several hundred people on picnic tables.”

The site also offers camping opportunities. “We have a bathhouse with bathrooms for men and women, and we’ve set up campsites along the river where guests can camp overnight. They can stay from one to 14 days and enjoy river activities here.”

Kelble mentioned additional options, including park-and-paddle or paddle-by-the-hour. “Guests can come to our park-like setting, rent boats, and paddle around. The river slows down to almost a stop where we’re located on the Shenandoah and wanders gently through the reservoir, making it great for people to launch here and paddle at their own pace.”

Finally, Kelble emphasized their readiness for events and the potential for future developments. “We’ve had quite a few people already rent the pavilion for family reunions, wedding receptions, and corporate events. Our location on the northernmost portion of Front Royal offers more than 10 acres of agriculturally zoned property and access to riverfront property recently donated to Warren County, which could be developed into a park.”

Kelble provided contact information for those interested in experiencing these river adventures: “You can call us at 540-622-4220 or visit our website at www.frontroyalriveradventures.com to make reservations. We also welcome walk-ins.”

The addition of Front Royal River Adventures is a significant milestone for the town, promising to boost local tourism and provide new opportunities for outdoor fun. As the community continues to grow and develop, this new venture stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit and forward-thinking approach of Front Royal’s residents and leaders.

Niki Foster, Executive Director of the Front Royal-Warren County Chamber of Commerce, and Front Royal Mayor Lori Cockrell celebrated the fifth anniversary of Battlegrounds Fitness with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Joseph McFadden and Rocky Medina co-founded Battlegrounds Fitness in memory of their friend, Marine Staff Sgt. David H. Stewart, who died during combat operations in Afghanistan in 2014. Their vision was to create more than just a gym but a place where community members could gain the fitness skills and knowledge needed for healthier lives.

Niki Foster began the ceremony by expressing her excitement about Battlegrounds Fitness reaching this milestone. “We’re so happy to have Battlegrounds Fitness as a member of our community,” she said before inviting Mayor Cockrell to speak.

Mayor Cockrell highlighted the dedication required to keep a business thriving for five years. “This is not just about opening a business; it’s about hard work and commitment. We hope you’re here for another 50 years,” she said, emphasizing the bond she shares with Joe McFadden from their time on the town council.

Joe McFadden took the opportunity to thank those who supported the gym over the years, especially his and Rocky’s families. “I’d like to thank my wife, Rocky, Rocky’s wife, Celia, and all our kids for the hours they didn’t see us at home,” he said. Rocky Medina echoed these sentiments, recalling the phrase they often used during the gym’s construction: “Think about where we’ll be next year, and now, here we are five years later.”

Battlegrounds Fitness has integrated itself deeply into the Front Royal community. “Our goal was always to be part of the community and embedded in everything Front Royal does,” McFadden explained. The gym offers programs catering to various ages and fitness levels, from kids’ programs and birthday parties to sessions for seniors. “Our oldest member is my father, who is 84,” McFadden noted proudly.

The facility boasts diverse fitness options, including a climbing wall, an American Ninja Warrior program, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. “We want this building to be a place where anyone can find something that motivates them to achieve their fitness goals,” said Medina.

Both founders emphasize the importance of personalizing fitness. “We believe in a prescriptive model where we align you with what works best for you,” McFadden explained. This approach ensures that fitness is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their starting point.

Medina, who has completed a half Ironman and various marathons, shared his commitment to lifelong fitness. “I want to be active all my life,” he said, mentioning his participation in community events like Ride With Rotary. McFadden, a father of seven, also emphasized the importance of staying fit to enjoy quality time with his children as they grow.

As Battlegrounds Fitness looks to the future, the founders are optimistic about continuing their mission. “We hope to be here for another 10-15 years, hopefully longer,” McFadden said. The gym’s success over the past five years is a testament to their dedication and the support of the Front Royal community.

The celebration marked an anniversary and a community, health, and perseverance milestone.

The Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the opening of Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, LLC, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event welcomed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Rebecca Myers-Settle and her new practice to the community.

Mayor Lori Cockrell praised the initiative as a valuable addition to local healthcare services.  “I’m very excited to be here today with Becky. She’s a long-time member of our community and brings a needed service to our community. Mental health is the issue, and there are not enough providers. I cannot stress that enough,” she said.

Rebecca Myers-Settle, a long-time resident of Warren County, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the community’s support. “This is an exciting day. It’s been a long time coming. It’s a huge dream of mine. I am so blessed to be able to be here today and make this come to fruition,” she shared.

Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, located at 624 Virginia Avenue in a charming Victorian house, aims to provide patients with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The practice offers mental health services to individuals of all ages, addressing various needs from youth to the elderly.

Rebecca’s background is impressive, with a bachelor’s in nursing from Shenandoah University, a master’s in healthcare management and nursing education, and a post-master’s certificate as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Her extensive training equips her to address the community’s mental health needs effectively.

During a brief interview after the ceremony, Rebecca explained her motivation for opening the practice. “I wanted to open a mental health practice here because it is a certified need in Warren County and surrounding areas. Being able to offer this service opens access to care for individuals. I want it to be inviting, warm, and cozy,” she said.

The practice’s approach includes both direct and referral-based access to services. “We receive referrals from physicians, hospitals, and even through our website. It’s an open referral process because sometimes people need someone to listen to them, and that’s what I’m here for,” Rebecca noted.

Rebecca also highlighted her commitment to supporting local healthcare workers, law enforcement, and first responders. “I wanted to have a place for our healthcare workers, law enforcement, and first responders to come and have a person to listen to and understand,” she said.

The ribbon-cutting event began a new chapter for mental health services in Front Royal. As the community continues to face various challenges, the addition of Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare provides a crucial resource for those needing mental health support.

For more information about Blue Ridge Mental Healthcare, LLC, visit their website or welcoming office at 624 Virginia Avenue, Front Royal. Rebecca and her team are ready to help all community members on their mental health journeys.

Here is a look at Saturday’s Wine & Crafts Festival before 1 p.m. (one photo) and after 1 p.m.

A look at the small, umbrella-toting crowd prior to the early afternoon passing of rain clouds that dampened the opening of Saturday’s Wine & Crafts Festival in Downtown Front Royal’s Historic Business District. Around 1 p.m. the rains diminished and then left and the now umbrella-less crowd began to grow. Royal Examiner Photos Roger Bianchini

A look up East Main St. and down Chester St. as the skies and moods brightened.

One might wonder what these festival patrons are looking at. Below, the answer is one of the food concession stands, Mark’s Thai Taste Kitchen. And don’t forget that lemonade to balance the wine with.

A look at one of the many craft tents drawing a crowd till the breakdown began shortly after 6 p.m.

Florals & Feathers, Cici’s Jewelry, and The Tavern – Those plants and that crowd leads us to the discovery that all the music wasn’t outside. Here, the Hobo Mariners have made the move from the Gazebo area stage to the Chester Street Tavern’s indoor musical accommodations.

Florals & Feathers, Cici’s Jewelry, and The Tavern – Those plants and that crowd leads us to the discovery that all the music wasn’t outside. Here, the Hobo Mariners have made the move from the Gazebo area stage to the Chester Street Tavern’s indoor musical accommodations.

And don’t forget your dab of garlic to go with your wine at the Rebec Winery tent. It must be an Italian Wine Festival.

Community leaders and local business owners gathered to celebrate the grand opening of Service Title LLC’s new location. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone for Christy Heflin, Raymond Heflin, and their partner Kellea Shaney.

Nike Foster, Executive Director of the Front Royal/Warren County Chamber of Commerce, kicked off the event by expressing enthusiasm for the new venture. Chamber President Byron Biggs and Front Royal Mayor Lori Cockrell shared their support and admiration for the team.

“Thank you, everybody, for being here today. We’re so excited to help cut the ribbon on this new venture,” Foster said. Biggs added, “I’ve known Christy and Ray for a while, and they are wonderful with their clients and the community. We’re glad to have them in our community.”

Mayor Cockrell reminisced about the building’s history and her long-standing relationship with the Heflins. “I’ve known Christy and Raymond for a long time. They are great people and business people who do a lot for our community. Congratulations on this new venture.”

Christy Heflin expressed her gratitude to the crowd, saying, “We’re excited about this new space and look forward to many years to come.”

After the ceremony, publisher Mike McCool spoke with Christy, Raymond, and Kellea about the new Service Title LLC. “We are a full-service settlement agency, providing title insurance and handling all kinds of real estate settlements,” Christy explained. “Kellea works on the title binders and commitments, and Raymond and I work with clients at the settlement table.”

Raymond Heflin highlighted their extensive experience in the industry. “We’re also lenders with Alcova Mortgage and hold real estate licenses with Brenda Morris of Morris & Company Realty. This new venture is a different side of the business for us.”

Kellea Shaney, who has been with Service Title since it opened in 2009, expressed her excitement about the new chapter. “I’m excited to be continuing my job with Raymond and Christy. It’s great to serve people on this side of the business.”

Service Title LLC serves the state of Virginia and is working on obtaining a license for West Virginia. The company aims to provide a seamless and efficient real estate transaction experience for bankers, brokers, agents, or private individuals.

The community’s support for Service Title LLC’s new venture was evident, reflecting the company’s longstanding relationships and reputation for excellence. As the real estate market continues to evolve, Service Title LLC is well-positioned to offer comprehensive real estate services in the valley.

For more information about Service Title LLC, contact Kellea Shaney, Senior Title Insurance Underwriter and Settlement Processor, at kellea@servicetitlellc.com.

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.