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.

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.

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.