275 People filled the lobby of the Ross Ragland Theater waiting for the 98th Annual Klamath County Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala to start. Nominees were mingling with others guests but anxiously waiting to see if they were going to win their category.

The annual Gala is an opportunity for the Chamber to recognize businesses and individuals who are making a difference in Klamath County.

This year there were over eighty nominations in ten categories - Best Place to Work Award (15 or less and 16 or more), Big IDEA Innovation Award, Commitment to Community Award, Environmental Leadership Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Pathfinder Award, Spirit of Entrepreneurism Award, Small Business Supporting Education and Large Business Supporting Education.

The Gala featured a new format this year. In previous years, the ceremony had entertainment placed throughout. Singing, dancing, theater performances, even spoofs of shows - such as Hee Haw and Laugh In. This year the awards ceremony was condensed to allow attendees the opportunity to relax, unwind, and play a bit of craps, blackjack or roulette in the RRT lobby as a fundraiser for the numerous Chamber educational and advocational events.

“I was so pleased with the Gala,” said Heather Tramp, Executive Director for the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce. “I've loved the format for years but I've always noticed people want to hang out and visit and celebrate after so I started thinking the casino night might be a fun addition and so far, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Over 100 stuck around to play games, network, and continue the celebration.”

“This was our biggest attendance in years,” said Tramp. “I thank our membership that supported the event through sponsorships, donations and volunteerism.”

The awards ceremony lasted a little over an hour honoring the recipients, below are the winners.