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2026 BASTROP COUNTY

HEALTH FAIR

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1-2 PRESIDENT’S REPORT

RIBBON CUTTINGS

3-4 UPCOMING EVENTS

WE BELIEVE IN BISD

NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS

6-7 EXPERT ARTICLE

CHAMBER SCHEDULE

8-9 2026 BASTROP COUNTY

KRAGH’S JEWELRY RETAIL AND REPAIR

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS MESSAGE

HEALTH FAIR

CHAMBER STAFF BECKI WOMBLE, CCE, IOM, ACM PRESIDENT/CEO JAMI HANEY VICE PRESIDENT JACKI GABRYSHAK, ACM MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR KORNYAN BAILEY COMMUNICATION & MEDIA MANAGER MOLLY McCORMACK ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

SARA RUTHERFORD DAWN REYNOLDS MASON MOTE

CHASE ANDERSON ERIC FARLEY SKY PINKSTON

MEAGAN WEBB LISA HOLCOMB BRITTANY ROGERS

LINDSAY KANA PAUL HIGHTOWER JOSH THOMAS

C. DOMINICA MCGINNIS TIM KIMBRO LORI TUGGLE

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Partnership & Gratitude

his month marks a personal milestone for me, 12 years with the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce.

As I reflect on that time, I find myself less focused on the passage of years and more on the people, relationships, and progress I have had the privilege to witness. Twelve years can change a community. Businesses open and grow, new leaders emerge, families put down roots, and entrepreneurs take risks that become part of the fabric of our local economy. Through it all, our community continues to evolve. I am deeply grateful to have had a front-row seat for that journey. When I began with the Chamber twelve years ago, I could not have predicted all that would unfold. But one thing has remained constant: this community cares deeply about its future. That commitment is evident in the way people show up, invest, and support one another. The People Behind Progress Economic progress is often measured in numbers: jobs created, investments made, construction activity, sales tax revenue, and new business growth. Those figures matter, but they are only part of the story. After twelve years, I have learned that the real story is always about people. Behind every new business is someone taking a risk. Behind every expansion is a decision to invest. Behind every job is a new opportunity for a family. Behind every community initiative are individuals giving their time, energy, and resources to make something better. And behind a strong Chamber are members who believe that working together strengthens us all. That is why, as I reflect on this anniversary, what stands out most is gratitude.

BECKI WOMBLE, CCE, IOM, ACM PRESIDENT / CEO BASTROP REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

To our members, thank you. Thank you for believing in the Chamber’s mission, showing up, sharing ideas, making connections, sponsoring programs, supporting our initiatives, serving on committees, and welcoming new businesses. Your involvement is more than membership; it is an investment in the future of this community. A Community in Motion There is no question our region is experiencing strong momentum. Growth is visible everywhere, bringing both opportunity and responsibility. As we continue to grow, we have an opportunity to be intentional about what we are building together. We want an economy where established businesses continue to thrive while new businesses find room to grow. We want entrepreneurs to see opportunities here, employers to find the workforce they need, and residents to build meaningful careers close to home. At the same time, we want to preserve the relationships and sense of community that make this area special. These goals do not happen by chance. They require us to be intentional with our communication, collaboration, and leadership. They also require us to ask an important question: What kind of community do we want to be twelve years from now? What Twelve Years Have Taught Me Over the past twelve years, I have learned that meaningful progress never comes from one organization or one individual alone. It happens when people come

PRESIDENT’S REPORT CONTINUED

existing businesses, attract new investment, develop future leaders, support entrepreneurs, build our workforce, and deepen regional partnerships. Most importantly, we can do it together.

together, each serving a different role and meeting a specific need.

I have seen introductions turn into partnerships, conversations lead to opportunity, and new members grow into leaders. I have watched If twelve years have taught me any- business owners support one anthing, it is this: community progress other, community partners collaborate across sectors, and individuals is not something that happens step forward when the community around us, it is something we creneeded them most. ate together. It happens when people choose to participate, when businesses support one another, when leaders listen, and when someone takes the time to make an introduction, offer encouragement, or ask, “How can I help?” Over time, those actions add up. They shape the direction of a community.

Our community is growing. Our economy is evolving. Our opportunities are expanding. But after twelve years, I remain convinced that our greatest strength has not changed. It is our people. Here’s to honoring where we have been, embracing where we are today, and building what comes next - together.

These moments may not always make headlines, but they matter deeply. They build trust, strengthen relationships, and form the founda- Thank you for allowing me to be tion of a strong local economy. part of the journey. This is why I believe one of the Chamber’s most important roles is to connect people.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Becki Womble, CCE, IOM, ACM President & CEO We bring together long-established Bastrop Regional businesses and new entrepreChamber of Commerce neurs. We create space for employA Note of Gratitude ers, educators, nonprofits, and civic As I celebrate twelve years with the leaders to share ideas. We help Bastrop Regional Chamber of Com- people find relationships and opmerce, I want to close with a simple portunities they might not discover on their own. message: thank you. Thank you to the members who have supported this organization and especially those that have walked alongside me on this journey. Thank you to our board members, volunteers, ambassadors, sponsors, partners, elected officials, business leaders, and Chamber staff, past and present, who have contributed their time and talents. And thank you to those who have recently joined this community and those who have been here for decades. Every one of you is part of this story.

Every connection has potential. And after twelve years, I am still inspired when I see those connections turn into something meaningful. Looking Ahead Anniversaries invite reflection, but they also invite us to look forward. I am proud of how far the Bastrop Regional Chamber and our community have come, and I am even more excited about what lies ahead. Growth will bring challenges. Change will bring difficult conversations and moments that require adaptation.

It has been an honor to serve this Chamber and this community for the past twelve years. I am grateful But there will also be extraordinary opportunities. for your trust, proud of what we have accomplished together, and We have the chance to strengthen energized by what is still ahead.

UPCOMING EVENTS

For Executive Directors & Senior Non-Profit Leaders This exclusive gathering creates a trusted space to haves missions, exchange insights, and explore parnerships that increase collective impact. By connecting peers and fostering collaboration, participants will hep build a more resilient, effective and connected non-profit community, benefiting the organizations we lead and the people we serve.

Click Here

to Register and Attend

Wednesday,

August 26, 2026

11:30 am - 1:00 pm

Click Here to Register and Attend

UPCOMING EVENTS

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER AND ATTEND

State of the Speaker: Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino Bastrop City Manager

City

Join us for the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce’s State of the City event and hear directly from city leadership about Bastrop’s latest developments, accomplishments, and priorities for the year ahead.

Gain valuable insights into economic development, infrastructure, public safety, and community growth while connecting with local business and community leaders shaping Bastrop’s future.

GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS MESSAGE

Jami Haney Vice President Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce

he Bastrop Regional Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee continues to serve as an important forum for monitoring public policy issues, sharing updates from community partners, and shaping the Chamber’s advocacy priorities.

feedback to refine the plan into a focused advocacy roadmap for the next two years. The goal is not only to identify what matters, but also to position the Chamber to speak clearly and consistently on issues that affect business growth, workforce development, infrastructure, and quality of The Committee is actively shaping the life throughout the region. Chamber’s 2027–2028 Advocacy Plan while also tracking the public policy At the same time, the Committee issues that matter most to Bastrop continues to monitor local and regionCounty businesses. al issues that may affect the business community. Current areas of attention The work began by identifying the include: business and community challenges that will guide the Chamber’s advo· Bastrop County’s local option liquor cacy over the next two years. From election those discussions, four primary focus areas emerged: · Bastrop ISD’s potential Voter-Approved Tax Rate Election · Workforce and Talent Development · Voter engagement opportunities · Transportation and Infrastructure such as Voter Deputy Registrar train· Competitive Business Environment ing and the #BastropVotes breakfast · Strong Communities and Economic Opportunity To ensure those priorities reflect the broader membership, the Chamber conducted a Business Priorities Survey, which affirmed the overall direction of the plan and helped sharpen the issues that deserve the greatest attention. Members emphasized needs such as career and technical education, apprenticeships, congestion relief, highway improvements, water and wastewater capacity, economic development, small-business support, healthcare access, school funding, community safety, workforce housing, and childcare. The Committee is now using that

Go to bastropchamber. com for more details

· Federal Reserve Bank’s Small Business Credit Survey The 2027–2028 Advocacy Plan will continue to take shape this fall before being presented to the Chamber Board of Directors for approval. Watch for more updates as the plan progresses and as the next Texas Legislative Session begins. The Chamber will continue sharing important developments, advocacy priorities, and opportunities for members to stay informed and engaged.

EXPERT ARTICLE

Lori Tuggle Owner Lori Tuggle State Farm Agency

hopping for small business insurance can be intimidating because commercial polices are different than personal lines and can feel like picking from a menu. The important question is not “Do I have insurance?” but rather “Does my coverage match the risks I actually face?” Here’s a friendly, practical guide to help you when searching for small business insurance.

Don’t forget business interruption coverage. Many businesses insure physical property but forget the revenue lost if operations shut down after a covered event. Business interruption helps protect income, payroll capacity, and your ability to pay rent and bills, so a temporary disruption doesn’t become a permanent setback.

Understand what general liability does (and doesn’t) do. Know the difference: occurrence vs. claims-made. Many owners assume a general liability policy covers “everything.” While it can help with third-party customer injuries, certain property damage to others, and some advertising injury claims, it won’t cover professional mistakes, employee lawsuits, cyber incidents, damage to your own business property, business income loss, or exposures like business-owned vehicles. Look closely at exclusions. One of the biggest mistakes is being more focused on premium than what’s covered. Common exclusions include flood, earthquake, cyberattacks, data breaches, employee theft, wear and tear, pollution, and certain contractual liabilities. A policy can look affordable until you realize what you’re most worried about isn’t covered. Make sure your limits match worst-case scenario. Underinsurance is common. If you pick limits too low, you may be stuck covering the difference. Rebuilding costs rise, equipment and inventory values may be underestimated, and business interruption can last longer than expected. When comparing quotes, consider whether limits still make sense if things go badly.

This matters most for professional liability (E&O) and some cyber-related coverage. Occurrence policies generally cover incidents that happen during the policy period, even if the claim arrives later. Claims-made coverage typically depends on when the claim is made and often includes details like a retroactive date. Workers’ comp and classification matters. Workers’ compensation requirements depend on your state, number of people employed, and how workers are classified. Misclassifying workers can lead to penalties and uncovered injuries, so it’s worth getting this right. Certain policies, such as workers comp, are auditable policies that look back at the previous year to verify estimates and adjust accordingly. Ask about cyber risk, even if you’re “small.” If you store customer information, accept online payments, use email heavily, keep employee records, or run cloud software, you may have cyber exposure. Don’t assume cyber coverage is only for large companies.

EXPERT ARTICLE

Confirm your coverage fits your real operations and con- Conclusion tracts. Don’t buy insurance by policy name—buy it by risk. Work Review landlord and vendor/client requirements early. with someone you know and trust that can help you. You may need additional insured endorsements, specific Match coverage to your actual exposures, read exclusions liability limits, certificates of insurance, or proof of work- and limits carefully, verify contract requirements, and ers’ comp. Read contracts before buying so you don’t end review annually as your business grows. A little diligence up needing rush changes. now can prevent costly gaps later. Compare more than price. Compare limits, deductibles, exclusions, property valuation method (replacement vs. actual cash value), business This article was written by State Farm agent Lori Tuggle ChFC, CLU. interruption terms, cyber scope, how defense costs are The views expressed are the author’s personal opinions and do not handled and whether an umbrella policy may be needed necessarily reflect those of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates (“State Farm”). The informafor additional protection. Choose a reputable agent and tion provided is for general guidance and is meant to help you make informed decisions. company with experience in commercial insurance.

THE 2026 BASTROP COUNTY HEALTH FAIR

THE

2026 BASTROP COUNTY

HEALTH FAIR

presented by

he 2026 Bastrop County Health Fair was a tremendous success, welcoming more than 700 attendees throughout the day. Families and community members connected with healthcare providers, local organizations, first responders, businesses, and exhibitors while learning more about health and wellness resources available throughout Bastrop County. The day included two full CPR certification classes led by Susan Denson of Ally Medical Emergency Room, helping equip community members with potentially life-saving skills. The Main Stage, sponsored by H-E-B Helping Here, featured three educational programs: a “Future of Healthcare in Bastrop County” panel discussion, a “Stress, Sleep, & Wellness” presentation, and a “Healthy Aging

& Caregiver Resources” presentation. These sessions gave attendees an opportunity to hear from local experts and learn more about important health topics affecting individuals and families.

THE 2026 BASTROP COUNTY HEALTH FAIR

ued commitment to improving health and wellness in our community.

Community Impact, our Media Partner, helped us spread the word about the Health Fair and reach a broader audience throughout the region. Their support helped increase awareness and connect more people with the event. The impact of the Health Fair extended far beyond attendance. Altogether, The Passport to Wellness, sponsored $38,183 in services were provided by St. David’s Foundation, encouraged to the community at no cost, includattendees to explore the Health Fair ing hearing in an interactive way. Participants screenings, visited different exhibitors, completmammoed activities, learned about availgrams, CPR able services, training, and collected and other stamps on their health and wellness services offered passport cards throughout the day. as they made their way through the UX Web Co., our Website Partner, event. helped us build and maintain the With more than 700 attendees, full Health Fair website, creating a cenCPR classes, educational presentatral place where attendees could find tions, interactive activities, prizes, and event information, exhibitor details, smiles all schedules, activities, and updates around, leading up to the event. the 2026 Bastrop County Health Fair was a wonderful example of what can happen when our community comes together around health, education, and connection. Our volunteers were also essential to the success of the day. They worked There was plenty of fun throughout throughout the event, assisting the day as well, with gift prizes being attendees, supporting exhibitors, awarded and the crowd-favorite Kids helping with activities, and stepping Costume Parade, which was streamed in wherever they were needed. We on Facebook Live. truly could not have done it without As the Presenting their hard work Sponsor, Ascension and dedication. Seton played an important role in making the 2026 Bastrop County Health Fair possible. We are SAVE THE DATE grateful for their sup2027 BASTROP COUNTY HEALTH FAIR port and their continJULY 31, 2027

RIBBON CUTTING

TEXAS ROADHOUSE | 829 State Hwy 71, Bastrop, TX 78602

WE BELIEVE IN BISD

BISD STARS Program

Click on the School you would like to Sponsor

webelieveinbisd.com

NEW MEMBERS!

NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS

The Board of Directors approved the following new members at its monthly meeting. We appreciate the investment these new members have made in the Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce and we ask that you give them your support when you are looking for goods or services and remember to SHOP LOCAL! Bastrop Massage Clinic | 150 Settlement Dr. Ste. C, Bastrop, TX 78602 | Health / Wellness Cheryl Pinkston| Education / Public School Districts CureFast Urgent Care| 10712 Straw Flower Drive (mail only location) | Health Care Clinics Dell Children’s Hospital | 4900 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723 | Health Care John Chabot “The Caterer”| 117 Blackfoot, Smithville, TX 78957 | Catering My Family’s Farm | 1124 County Road 301, Elgin, TX 78621| Non-Profits Silverado Signature Homes | 355 N Lampasas St, Bertram, TX 78605 | Home Building / Remodeling / Design

RENEWING MEMBERS! Thanks to the following renewing members for continuing your investment in the Chamber. We appreciate your confidence in our ability to promote Bastrop and your business.

1080Motion Inc. 602 Brewing Company Aqua Jet, Inc Bassano Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry Bastrop Fitness Project Bastrop Signs & Banners Bateman Baptist Church Becki & Rick Womble

Blue Ribbon Cooling and Heating Coventry Homes Dale Cook Backhoe Service, Inc. Found Fine Art Fresenius Kidney Care East Bastrop Gregory Klaus Hampton Inn & Suites of Bastrop King’s Portable Thrones Mr Chill Cooling & Heating Notary Service Business LLC

On Point Air Conditioning & Appliance, LLC Pearl River Companies Rising Sun Vineyard safemode IT LLC Selections By Steph Smithville Hospital Authority Tuff Shed, INC Upton Ranch

13 DON’T MISS THESE UPCOMING EVENTS! CHAMBER SCHEDULE

Aug. 26: Non-Profit Executive Council Sept. 10: Alive After 5 - Found Fine Art

Aug. 27: Voter Deputy Registrar Training Sept. 14: State of the City Dinner Oct. 14: State of BISD Lunch

Aug. 20: Bastrop ISD’s P-TECH Pharmacy Lab Ribbon Cutting Aug. 27: Premium Ribbon Cutting McDonald’s - Kinney Restaurant Management Inc. Sept. 2: Bastrop Regional Chamber Luncheon - Disaster Preparedness Sept. 7: Chamber Office Closed for Labor Day Sept. 8: Hospitality Committee Meeting

The Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce staff at the 2026 Bastrop County Health Fair