NEWSLETTER NEWSLETTER September 2025 September 2025
Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce
A Message from Chairman of the Board, Caroline Noya
As we ease into fall, we want to extend a big thank you to Frost Bank for hosting a fantastic August Chamber Mixer, and to Dr. Molley Perry, Superintendent of Smithville ISD, for being our guest speaker at the Summer Chamber Luncheon. We’re grateful for your time and insight, and we look forward to your leadership as you guide Smithville ISD into a new school year filled with growth, opportunity, and andsuccessforourstudents,staff,andfamilies.
We’realsoexcitedtowelcomeMarkAnthonyBacatotheSmithvilleChamber BoardofDirectors!We’reenthusiastictohavehimonourteamandthrilledto seehisleadershipandexperiencecontributetothegrowthoftheSmithville FilmCommission.
Besuretocheckoutthismonth’sspotlightonCommunityHostRitaBrayley, whocontinuestobeabrightlightattheChamber.
There’splentyhappeningthismonth!Don’tmisstheSmithvilleCommunity Clinic’smonthlyDiabetesClass,ourSeptemberMixerhostedbySmithville BrewingCompany,andbesuretoregisteryourteamforthe7thAnnual SmithvilleWingfestcominguponOctober18,2025 Also,aquickreminder we’recurrentlyacceptingnominationsfornewChamberBoardMembers,so considergettinginvolvedornominatingsomeonewhowouldbeagreatfit.
ThankyouforbeingapartoftheSmithvilleChamberWe’relookingforwardto avibrantandengagingseasonahead!
Welcome from Caroline Noya, Board President Message from Gabriela, Membership Engagement Manager
A Message from Gabriela Membership Engagement Manager
As I look back on my first two months with the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce, I can honestly say it’s been an incredibly welcoming and fulfilling experience. From day one, I was greeted with open arms by the board, our members, and the community That sense of encouragement and kindness has made it easy to settle in, and it has reminded me of just how special Smithville really is. In these short weeks, I’ve already had the chance to be part of some exciting projects. We put together goodie bags for new Smithville ISD employees, filled with donations from our wonderful members — a small but meaningful way to make new teachers and staff feel right at home I also worked on clear rental guidelines for Chamber assets, making sure our members have access to these resources in a fair and consistent way. On top of that, I’ve loved helping highlight our Cornerstone Partners and Community Hosts of the month, giving them a spotlight to share their stories and be recognized for the support they give our Chamber. I am planning on a Member Monday spotlight that gives our Members more recognition. I also do plan to bring back Chamber 101 once I am settled in. I want our Members to know and understand what benefits they have and the knowledge to use them to their advantage. Preparing for events like the Quarterly Luncheon and our monthly Mixers has given me the opportunity to meet with our members and potential members alike Making sure everyone feels appreciated and recognized has been a big focus, and I’m excited to keep building on that. Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue growing member recognition, improving communication tools like our newsletter and FAQs, and strengthening partnerships across the community. There’s so much potential here, and I’m excited to be part of that growth in such a great community But more than the projects and the plans, what I’ve enjoyed the most is the people. Everyone has been so kind, helpful, and supportive it’s clear that this Chamber truly thrives because of its members and the community. I feel lucky to be part of such a positive and collaborative team, and I can’t wait to see all that we’ll accomplish together in the months to come.
Cornerstone Partners
Welcome New Smithville Film Commissioner Ex-Officio Board Member
MarkAnthony Baca
Emmy Award- Winner MarkAnthony Baca is a true success story in e film and television industry. With a career built on relentless dication and undeniable talent, his journey began right out of gh school, when he made his very first debut with a fight scene in ck Boxer 4. Soon after he gained recognition with his food fight ene in Wishbone “The Doggy Dog Days in the Wild, Wild West”. en he had an amazing opportunity as a stunt performer in the iginal Walker, Texas Ranger. Over the last 5-6 years, MarkAnthony ntinued to build his success, starring in numerous films and most cently co-starring with legendary actor John Schneider in the ature film “To Die For”. ith more than three decades of experience in over 120 films, evision, commercials, and series.
MarkAnthony has become a valuable force in the entertainment world. Following the guidance of his mentors, MarkAnthony founded his own stunt team, Extreme Force Hollywood Stunts & Film. Originally based in California and now relocated to McDade, Texas. This strategic move has helped him create one of the largest stunt and special effects companies outside of California. Further cementing his position in the film industry His most recent work was stunt coordinating for Warner Bros press junket media for Ben Affleck’s “The Accountant 2” and Minecraft with Jack Black and Jason Momoa!
MarkAnthony’s extensive experience as an actor, stunt coordinator and, now, Emmy Award-Winning Producer has earned him various accolades with his most notable achievement being the production of a segment for the NFL 360 Network, titled: HEROES which won an official Emmy Award in 2024 In just 3 years of producing, MarkAnthony has already made a significant mark on the industry. Whether working on a major SAG production or contributing to independent films, MarkAnthony and his team consistently deliver outstanding quality experience. Enhancing every project they take with a growing legacy and ever-expanding influence in the world of film and television production, MarkAnthony continues to set new standards in the entertainment industry which makes him an invaluable partner for any investment opportunity.
Cornerstone Partners
Focus on: Community Host Rita Brayley
A True Chamber Gem
Originally from New York, Rita Brayley brings warmth, curiosity, and a generous spirit to the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce. She volunteers with us **twice a week and often even more ** always ready to lend a hand with a smile. Whether it’s helping in the office, greeting visitors, or jumping in during events, Rita is one of those people you can always count on.
She especially enjoys chatting with travelers from out of state or abroad, sharing her own story and learning about theirs. Rita’s welcoming personality and genuine love for connection make her an incredible asset not only to the Chamber, but to the entire Smithville community. We’re so grateful for all that she does!
Cornerstone Partners
Join Us for the September Mixer with the Smithville Brewing Company!
We’re excited to invite you to the September Chamber Mixer, hosted by the Smithville Brewing Company! This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow Chamber members, meet new faces, and strengthen community ties. We hope to see you there!
Date & Time: Thursday, September 18, 2025
Location: Smithville Brewing Company 661 NW Loop 230, Smithville, TX
Don’t miss out on the fun. Mark your calendars and bring a friend!
RECAP IN PICTURES RECAP IN PICTURES
Did you know that as a Chamber member, you have access to post your events on the Smithville Chamber Event Calendar? It’s a valuable tool to help you promote your business, increase visibility, and connect with the community. We encourage all members to take advantage of this free resource! Whether you're hosting a sale, workshop, fundraiser, or grand opening, your event belongs on the calendar. Need assistance? We’re happy to help. Call us at 512-237-2313 Or email
2025
LOOKING AHEAD
October 3, 2025
A Potluck Project Residency: Exploring
Community Connection
October 4, 2025
Community-Wide Garage Sale
Smithville Heritage House & Museum Open House
KSB’s Sustainable Home & Garden Show
October 6, 2025
Artist Residency Exhibition
October 7, 2025
Smithville Community Clinic Diabetes Class
October 8, 2025
Keep Smithville Beautiful Quarterly Meeting
October 9, 2025
Smithville Community Gardens Meeting
October 13, 2025
Smithville Stitchers Quilt Guild
October 16, 2025
Chamber Mixer hosted by Frontier Bank
October 18, 2025
7 Annual Smithville Wingfest th Every Sunday
Smithville’s Farmers Market
Check out our online calendar for more events!
Cornerstone Partners
Sponsorship Opportunity for the SACoC Wingfest
We are excited to be hosting Wingfest on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Railroad Park located at 106 NE 1 st St. This event aims to support community initiatives and educational programs.
Each year the festival continues to grow, and this year we anticipate up to 500 visitors for this fun family event that includes a Chicken Wing Cookoff, Chicken Bingo, Chicken Pageant, and more!
We are seeking cooking teams along with generous sponsors like you to help us with entertainment, prizes, and more. Your support will be recognized on the day of the event, and as a sponsor, your company will receive recognition on social media and the Chamber website, name recognition on signage or banners, and acknowledgement during the event.
For more information on participating as a Cooking Team, or for Sponsorship opportunities, please visit the Chamber website, or contact Cathy Meek, Wingfest Chair, at 512-420-6755.
Thanks in advance for your support and hope to see you at the ultimate Wingfest Poultry Party!!!!
MEMBER EVENTS
Cornerstone Partners
From the Desk of
Robert Tamble, City Manager
Comprehensive Plan Community Engagement Portal Launched - The City of Smithville invites all residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to review and provide feedback on the DRAFT Resilient Comprehensive Plan, now available through the city’s On-Line Community Engagement Portal. The comprehensive plan initiative is being funded through a $300,000 grant from the Texas General Land Office (with no cost to the city) and will help guide Smithville’s growth and development over the next 10 to 20 years. It focuses on strategies that promote sustainability, equity, and resilience, while addressing key issues such as land use, housing, infrastructure, economic development, parks and trails, downtown revitalization, stormwater management, and historical preservation.
The final version of the Comprehensive Plan is expected to be adopted in December 2025. This effort is led by the City of Smithville, in partnership with Langford Community Management Services, Inc. Ongoing community input is essential to creating a plan that reflects shared values and goals. Please review the DRAFT plan, share your thoughts, and help us shape Smithville’s future as we manage growth.
Access the DRAFT Resilient Comprehensive Plan, now available through the city’s On-Line Community Engagement Portal at the link below:
Banner Ad
8.3" x 2"
$50 per issue or $240 for 6 issues (20% Discount)
Requirements:
Graphic provided by business Quality: 300 DPI (jpeg, png, or pdf)
Standard Business Card
3.5" x 2"
$25 per issue or $120 for 6 issues (20% discount)
Requirements:
Graphic provided by business Quality: 300 DPI (jpeg, png, or pdf)
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
We would like to thank these new businesses/organizations that have joined the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce. Remember to support your local business and those that continue to support our community.
Thank you to all businesses and organizations that have renewed their memberships, your continued support is very much appreciated.
RENEWING MEMBERS Join the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce today!
Being a member of the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce means more than just joining an organization?it means being part of a thriving community Your membership connects you to valuable networking opportunities, increases your visibility, amplifies your voice, and provides resources for learning and growth We are deeply grateful to our current members for their ongoing support and engagement - you are the heart of our Chamber! If you've been considering joining, now is the perfect time to invest in your business and our community Let’s grow, connect, and succeed together! Visit https://business smithvilletx org/member/newmemberapp
Cornerstone Partners
REMINDER: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR MEMBERSHIP
If you're a Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce business member make sure to take advantage of your membership by submitting your events, sales, or business information to us to include in our Monthly Newsletter
Please email your information to us and be sure to include a supporting image for social media to Info@SmithvilleTx org
The deadline for submissions is the 3rd Monday of each month by 12PM
Click HERE to stay up-to-date with events hosted by the City of Smithville. (Scroll to the bottom of their page to view the calendar.)
2025 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chairman Caroline Noya
Secretary Cathy Meek Rockin’ M Ranch
Treasurer Craig Strickland
Josh Coy First National Bank
Sandra Greaney Kids Outdoor Zone
Ellie Thomas Frontier Bank
Karrie McKeown Smithville Jamboree
Nicole Smith BACA Entertainment
Alexis Peck Smithville Rec Center
Know someone who would enjoy staying up-to-date with all the happenings in our community? Feel free to share this newsletter with your family and friends! Encourage them to subscribe so they can receive future updates directly in their inbox and stay connected with everything happening in Smithville.
THANK YOU CORNERSTONE PARTNERS
