Front Royal Chamber: Community Leadership, Christmas Parades, and Cookies

When the newest cohort of the Front Royal–Warren County Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership Program filed into the conference room, they didn't expect their first assignment to involve a radio interview. Yet chamber director Niki Foster insists that discomfort is part of the process. As she tells Valley Today host Janet Michael, leadership requires stepping outside routine—and this program is designed to stretch participants in the best possible ways. A Program Built to Strengthen Community Now more than 25 years old, the Chamber's leadership program remains one of the region's most impactful professional development opportunities. Since 1999, it has graduated nearly 300 people—small-business owners, town staff, nonprofit leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and engaged residents. Niki explains that the program offers a "wide-angle lens" view of Front Royal and Warren County. Participants explore how local government works, how social services operate, what drives economic growth, how nonprofits collaborate, and what challenges shape daily life in the community. Moreover, she emphasizes that the program serves the community just as much as the participants. Graduates leave with accurate knowledge, real-world context, and the confidence to correct misinformation that spreads on social media or in neighborhood groups. A Class Filled With Motivation—and Curiosity As Janet goes around the room, the class reveals a diverse mix of personal motivations: Nonprofit Leaders Looking for Deeper Understanding Andrea Ross, representing Warren County Habitat for Humanity, hopes to better understand the inner workings of the community she serves. Rachel Ross, newly relocated and working with Warren County Department of Social Services, wants to connect locally and learn the landscape. Doris Lockwood, a 20-year military veteran, appreciates the chance to see "how the community works—and sometimes doesn't." Small-Business Owners Seeking Connection Janet Counts, co-owner of Potomac Plumbing & Gas, supports women in business and wants a clearer picture of how her business fits into the local ecosystem. Jennifer Nicholson, owner of Jennerations Hair Studio & Spa, enrolled because friends raved about the program's impact. Local Government Employees Strengthening Their Roots Eric Jorgenson and Megan Clark of the Town of Front Royal see the program as a way to understand community needs more fully and collaborate across departments. Educators & Workforce Developers Expanding Their View Anna Walton from Blue Ridge Technical Center wants to form informed opinions—not guesses—about local issues. Lisa Mauck, an adjunct professor with Laurel Ridge Community College, completed the program 24 years ago and returned for a modern refresher. A Student With a Head Start Zachary Nicholson, the youngest participant, joined simply to learn about his community—earning praise from Janet for choosing curiosity over obligation. Together, their voices paint a picture of a community eager to learn, participate, and contribute. Evolution in a Growing Region As Janet and Niki reflect on the program's history, they acknowledge how dramatically the county has changed since its inception. Businesses have expanded, new neighborhoods have emerged, and local government has evolved. That's why Niki loves when alumni return; the learning is never truly finished. Importantly, Niki notes that town staff have participated every single year—a powerful endorsement of the program's relevance. Valley Health, too, is a consistent supporter, sending team members annually to strengthen cross-sector understanding. Connecting the Dots Across Sectors Because participants represent nearly every corner of the community—government, healthcare, education, nonprofits, small business—the program becomes a living network. "We all touch different people," Niki explains. The more accurate information leaders share, the stronger the community becomes. From tours of major institutions to hands-on sessions during government and education months, the program forces participants to move beyond assumptions and see the systems they inhabit. Holiday Hustle: The Chamber's Busiest Season In the second half of the episode, the conversation shifts from leadership development to full-blown holiday logistics. And for Niki, December is no small undertaking. The Christmas Parade & Merry Market The Front Royal Christmas Parade, one of the largest annual events downtown, draws more than 7,000 attendees—making it the third-largest community gathering. Interest is so strong that parade applications were requested as early as February. Beyond the parade, Niki outlines a full day of activities: Holiday performances at the gazebo The Merry Market featuring small businesses and seasonal vendors Children's activities Pancake breakfasts, open houses, concerts, and more As Janet jokes, it's the kind of day that makes Front Royal feel like a Hallmark movie—though Niki insists it feels more like the small-town charm of Gilmore Girls. Business After Hours & Community Giving Even with the holiday chaos, the chamber continues its regular programming. December includes: Coffee & Conversation, held the first Friday of every month Business After Hours at Royal Cinemas on December 9, raising funds for Warren County foster care A free screening of Elf afterward Cocoa & Cookies at the Chamber on December 19—open to everyone, not just members Looking Ahead: Education and Local Government As the leadership class finishes its introductions, Nikki previews their upcoming sessions: December: Education — tours, presentations, and immersive learning in local schools January: Local Government — meetings with officials, facility tours, and firsthand exploration of how decisions are made Janet can't resist teasing them about Public Safety Day, warning that Warren County Fire & Rescue legend Gerry Maiatico never misses an audience. A Class Just Getting Started As the conversation wraps, the participants settle into their first day as a cohort—curious, energized, and ready for the nine-month journey ahead. Janet promises to return in June to ask them what surprised them most, what they loved, and how the experience changed their understanding of Front Royal and Warren County. One thing is certain: this group is diverse, engaged, and poised to make a meaningful impact.